Feel Colossus Power Through Classic Inspiration

Posted on July 8, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.09.25) – Take your power to the Classic level of COLOSSUS AUDIO! Colossus Classic amplifiers set the standard for what clean and powerful audio should sound like. Known for sleek design and exceptional sound performance — Colossus Classic amplifiers include monoblock amplifiers and a 4-channel amplifier.

Click here to view a product video.

Whether upgrading your Hifonics car audio system with BIG POWERgains or building your install/setup for the first time, Colossus Classic amplifiers bring a classic size that delivers LOUD SOUND, clean clarity, and ULTIMATE durability.

To learn more, click here.

JVC Mobile Entertainment Appoints SMS as New Representative for TX/OK/LA/AR Region

Posted on July 7, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized.

LONG BEACH, CA (07.08.25) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is proud to announce the appointment of Special Market Sales (SMS) as its new manufacturer’s representative firm for the Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas markets. This strategic partnership reinforces JVC’s commitment to strengthening dealer relationships and expanding market presence in the region.

Mark Dombroski, Western Sales Manager for JVC Mobile Electronics, expressed confidence in the new alliance: “SMS is the perfect fit for JVC. Their dedication to dealer relationships and outstanding follow-through aligns seamlessly with how we do business. We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership brings.”

Based in the region they now represent, SMS brings decades of experience and a strong reputation for integrity and performance. Their core philosophy emphasizes long-term partnerships over short-term gains, with many of the brands they represent working with them for more than 15 years—a testament to the trust and consistent results they deliver.

The SMS team includes some of the most seasoned professionals in the 12-volt industry:

Dave Gill, who has been in the business since 1986
Gilliama “Yam” Domino, who began his career as an installer in 1984
Robert “Bob” Connacher, who entered the retail side of the industry in 1988

Each team member brings extensive experience across installation, sales, retail operations, and business development. Keeping everything on track is Whitney Tomlinson, SMS’s Director of Communications, who joined the team in 2021 and plays a vital role in client and brand communications.

With this partnership, JVC Mobile Entertainment looks forward to expanding its footprint in the region and delivering even greater value to its dealers and customers.

For more information, please visit www.jvc.com.

SkillsUSA Shined at the 2025 Nationals in Atlanta

Posted on July 7, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

ATLANTA, GA (07.08.25) – 12volt brands KICKER and DB Drive once again worked with SkillsUSA’s initiative to train installers for the 12volt industry workforce. This year the KICKER Tech Force manager Aaron Malin and trainer Jacob Luckey were on site to judge at the SkillsUSA Championships June 23-27. DB Drive’s Randy Goodwin, along with James Simpson from Vickers AV, were also on site again during SkillsUSA’s annual National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. Goodwin was also a competition Judge.The SkillsUSA Championships is the premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education for students.

***The Mobile Electronics portion of the Nationals event floor.***

Chris Jack, SkillsUSA Mobile Electronics Chairman, along with Co-Chair Bryan Gary, were also on site to oversee the Mobile Electronics activities. Gary drove his 2016 Mustang convertible the 2000 miles round trip from Oklahoma to be on site for students to judge the custom aftermarket system in the vehicle. Gary supplied images in this article.

***Gary’s Mustang showcased for students score with KICKER and DB Drive setups in the background.***

“When I opened the trunk on the Mustang all the students’ eyes opened wide. When we cranked the system, installed by Audio Midwest, you could see the WOW on their faces. Actually experiencing a custom system was another element factor that engages the students for a career in the mobile electronics industry” Gary stated.

***Nareh Shahgaldyan, event Bronze winner, scores Gary’s Mustang.***

The Mobile-Electronics Installation category tested competitors’ abilities to perform standard installation practices used by certified, professional mobile-electronics installers, and established for the Basic MECP certification by the Consumer Electronics Association. The competition included a written exam, interviews, and multiple hands-on applications.

***Aaron Malin, KICKER Tech Force Manager, interviews a student.***

“We need these young men and women to join us in our quickly evolving industry,” said Malin, the supervisor of KICKER’s global training. “SkillsUSA’s competitive categories stresses various aspects of the real-world workplace, so when students graduate, they are positioned to immediately contribute on the job.”

***Students are pumped as the competition wrapped prior to the evening awards ceremony.***

For consecutive years, KICKER has been involved with SkillsUSA’s mission on national and local levels. In 2025 KICKER donated more than $5,000 in prizes to the winners of the 12-volt competitions.

***The National’s Award Ceremony underway for Mobile Electronics students.***

For more see www.skillsusa.com.

UTV Audio Roofs from MB Quart Set the Bar for Overhead Speaker Performance

Posted on July 7, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.08.25) – CLEAN detail. LOUD sound. OVERHEAD immersion. Feel it ALL with UTV Audio Roofs. Set out on the summer trails with MB Quart UTV Tuned Audio Roofs, exclusively engineered for Polaris RZR Trail and Polaris RANGER UTV vehicles. Get ready to embrace immersive overhead audio playback and redefine expectations.

With three Polaris RZR Trail and three Polaris RANGER UTV Tuned Audio Roofs to choose from in the MB Quart UTV Tuned Audio Roof lineup, you’ll be able to find that perfect audio roof companion for your Polaris RZR Trail or Polaris RANGER UTV vehicle.

To learn more, click here.

KICKER At The American Flat Track At The DUQUOIN Mile

Posted on July 7, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

DUQUOIN IL (07.07.25) The Progressive American Flat Track Series continued Saturday night July 5th with Round 8 at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds with the Memphis Shades DuQuoin Mile. KICKER was set up outside the main entrance to the DuQuoin State Fair arena under a large tent. Lorin Morrell was joined by AFT Merchandise and Memphis Shades staff members. Memphis Shades was the Race Sponsor for Round 8.

***The KICKER tent was set up right out front of the entrance.***

The weather was hot and humid on the day after the 4th of July but all were Livin’Loud during the event on the track and in the booth. With the KICKER tent positioned right outside the entrance nobody missed the KICKER setup entering or leaving the event.

***A wide selection of KICKER products was displayed.***

“American Flat Tack and bike enthusiasts all recognize the KICKER brand and many stopped by the booth to see the latest products we had on display on the tables. At this event several people mentioned the KICKER gear they had on their bike or pickup. As a family event many children came along and were introduced to the KICKER brand. The racing was amazing too” Morrell related.

***Racing on the track was amazing and intense.***

Concluding “The racing on the mile track was action packed and we could hear the crowd cheering from the KICKER tent. The next race is at the Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland MO on July 18th. All will be Livin’Loud there as the 2025 American Flat Track series continues.”

For more see kicker.com

Lucas Lighting Appoints Compustar Canada Master Distributor

Posted on July 7, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry News.

Major North American Expansion

Chicago, IL July 7, 2025— Lucas Lighting, the two-time MEA lighting vendor of the year, announced the appointment of Saskatchewan based Compustar Canada as its Master Distributor for Canada. Compustar Canada will be the country manager for all matters related to the Lucas Lighting brand in Canada. Steve Rogers, Lucas Lighting’s vice president said, “The synergies between the two companies are quite remarkable. Both Lucas Lighting and Compustar Canada deliver innovative, upscale reliable products backed by best-in-class technical support which then earns the loyalty of customers. It made tremendous sense to join forces in growing our brand in Canada.”

“We’re proud to add Lucas Lighting, one of the top-performing and most trusted brands in aftermarket automotive lighting,” said Bryan Sack, President at Compustar Canada. “Known for its uncompromising quality, cutting-edge technology, and vehicle-specific LED solutions, Lucas Lighting perfectly aligns with our mission to deliver premium products that meet the demands of today’s installers and drivers. This launch reinforces our commitment to supporting Canadian dealers with best-in-class brands and unmatched local service. We couldn’t be more excited!”

You can explore the full lineup of Lucas lighting products at https://www.myfirstech.ca/

2025 SEMA Show: The Center of the Automotive Universe Returns

Posted on July 7, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (7.7.25) – The automotive aftermarket is coming together in a big way for the 2025 SEMA Show, with 4.6 million square feet of exhibit space booked by thousands of leading brands for the industry’s most important gathering of the year. Taking over the entire Las Vegas Convention Center campus Nov. 4-7, 2025, the Show underscores the strong commitment of manufacturers, service providers, and innovators eager to connect, showcase their latest products, and shape the future of the industry.

“While the broader market is navigating uncertainty, the SEMA Show is a clear signal of strength, innovation, and opportunity across the automotive aftermarket industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “We’re delivering a high-energy event that reflects where the industry is headed—driven by product, passion, and purpose.”

With more than 2,000 exhibitors, the SEMA Show continues to be the place where business gets done. From groundbreaking technology and next-generation tools and products to expert-led education and face-to-face networking, the Show offers everything automotive aftermarket professionals need to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing landscape. It’s where relationships are built, products are evaluated, strategies are sharpened, and opportunities come to life.

Thousands of iconic brands will participate in the 2025 SEMA Show, including eBay Motors, Holley Performance Brands, Hoonigan, Hunter Engineering, Optima, Rockford Fosgate, Snap-on, SPARQ, WeatherTech, and many others.

“SEMA is where innovation meets influence, and for SPARQ, we’re honored to be a part of the conversation with exciting plans to introduce new products to SPARQ’s ecosystem,” said SPARQ Co-founder Daniel Nieh. “As a startup pushing the boundaries of automotive technology, exhibiting at SEMA allows us to connect directly with the community that’s shaping the future of the industry—builders, technicians, brands, and enthusiasts alike. It’s not just about showcasing what SPARQ can do; it’s about listening, collaborating, and helping redefine what’s possible.”

Highlighting the 2025 SEMA Show will be participation from a strong lineup of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), including Ford Performance, Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC), MOPAR/Stellantis, Nissan, and Toyota.

“SEMA is a great platform for Toyota to share our passion for performance and serves as a test bed for our creative and innovative ideas,” said Mike Tripp, Group Vice President of Toyota Marketing. “We are always blown away with how this community engages with our brand and showcases our vehicles to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive industry.”

Innovation across the industry is surging, fueled by a wave of new product launches debuting at the Show. The New Products Showcase will highlight more than 2,000 cutting-edge entries spanning 15 product categories. The SEMA FutureTech Studio will return as another innovation center, showcasing new technologies shaping the marketplace. From internal combustion engines to EVs, hydrogen, hybrids, and synthetic fuels, a wide range of propulsion technologies is powering one of the most dynamic product development cycles the industry has ever seen.

“SEMA represents the heart of the automotive aftermarket industry which aligns perfectly with our mission at Revv,” said Adi Bathla, CEO and Co-founder of Revv. “SEMA continues to be the epicenter of automotive innovation, and we’re constantly pushing boundaries.”

The SEMA Show is maxing out the campus with a diverse and strategic brand mix and exceptional category breadth that reflects the full scope of the industry. The addition of the new International Pavilion reinforces the SEMA Show’s role as a hub for the global automotive marketplace.

Long considered a bucket list item for many car lovers, the Show will open its doors to automotive enthusiasts on Friday, Nov. 7, for SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public, giving car culture fans a special opportunity to peek behind the curtain of the automotive aftermarket. It’s a powerful way to connect the passion of the enthusiast community with the business of innovation.

“The SEMA Show is gaining momentum heading into November, with continued growth and strong industry support,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “From special events to education to product reveals, we’re delivering a fully immersive experience that celebrates where the industry is now and where it’s going next.”

Attendees are encouraged to register early to maximize their ROI; registration is only $50 for qualified attendees who register by June 27. Participants can also make hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA’s official hotel provider.

Spaces are still available for companies who would like to exhibit and connect with thousands of qualified buyers at the 2025 SEMA Show. For more information, visit www.semashow.com/exhibitor.

For information about the 2025 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.semashow.com. To view this year’s floorplan, log on to www.semashow.com/floorplan.

SkillsUSA Shined At The 2025 Nationals In Atlanta

Posted on July 6, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

ATLANTA GA (07.06.25) – 12volt brands KICKER and DB Drive once again worked with SkillsUSA’s initiative to train installers for the 12volt industry workforce. This year the KICKER Tech Force manager Aaron Malin and trainer Jacob Luckey were on site to judge at the SkillsUSA Championships June 23-27. DB Drive’s Randy Goodwin, along with James Simpson from Vickers AV, were also on site again during SkillsUSA’s annual National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. Goodwin was also a competition Judge.The SkillsUSA Championships is the premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education for students.

For consecutive years, KICKER has been involved with SkillsUSA’s mission on national and local levels. In 2025 KICKER donated more than $5,000 in prizes to the winners of the 12-volt competitions.

For more see www.skillsusa.com

The July 4th 2025 Celebration Marks The 249th Anniversary Of Independence Day

Posted on July 3, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.03.25) – Thursday, July 4th 2025, marks the Celebration of Independence Day 249 across the U.S. Many businesses are enjoying a 4-Day 4th of July weekend by taking off Thursday the 3rd along with Friday July 4th for a 4-Day weekend.

July 4th 2025 is seeing the landscape across the US and around the world far from normal as turmoil fills the news. Inflation continues running high and air travel is a nightmare in many cases. Online sales continue to take away from the brick and mortar sales across the marketplace. In-person events have returned but everyday life is far from normal.

On the 12volt industry side store traffic remains light as consumers make decisions with allocating their disposable income. Uneasiness with regard to tariff price increases and inventory issues persist. With so many options visibility for 12volt products is not getting through to consumers. We must continue to work to connect with consumers and make music fun again!

The business year is divided into 4 quarters….much like a football game. The first quarter of 2025 was OK for many 12volt companies. As the second quarter wrapped came the impact of the Tariffs plus mounting social issues that cloud the future. Reports are 12volt industry business has definitely slowed. Worldwide unrest adds to the cloudy future.

Now, as the second half of 2025 gets underway, all businesses must evaluate their game plans and make appropriate adjustments. Importantly, businesses must adjust their shoulder pads and tighten the chin straps on their helmets. Now, as the clock for the second half of 2025 has started, all businesses must keep their eye on the ball, work their game plans and be prepared to quickly make necessary adjustments. Importantly, brick and mortar retailers must work to create excitement in their marketplace to drive in-store traffic and business.

The 12voltSTP Tool can be utilized by members of the 12volt industry to showcase positives for their brand and activities. Snap..Txt.. PRESTO. Snap an Image and Txt the image with a few words to 318 469 2526. PRESTO! Your company could be in the news. As an industry let’s utilize the 12voltSTP Tool and be… ’Jammin’ N July’.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to focus on the positives and encourage all to work to ‘Get Our Shine On’ as an industry and ‘Make Music Fun Again!’

MB Quart Returned To The 2025 UTV Takeover As The Audio Sponsor.

Posted on July 3, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry News.

COSS BAY OR (07.03.25) MB Quart had a strong presence at the 2025 UTV Takeover on the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The UTV Takeover rolled in Coos Bay from June 24 through the 29th.

MB Quart had a large booth with staff members Chris Brinkley and David Kotewa in the house. Additionally Pacific Rim Marketing”s Mark and Valentina were assisting activities in and around the booth. Area retailer CarTunes from Grant Pass OR was set up close to their booth and worked with MB Quart to make installations for their on-site sales.

***Chris Brinkley, David Kotewa, Valentina and Mark Giannetti pictured in front of the MB Quart tent setup.***

“This was a terrific event for MB Quart. We had a lot of activity in our booth with sales plus installs from Fermin Sanchez and his CatTunes team. No doubt about it our Pro RZR kits were hot sellers. Having Mark and Valentina in the booth connecting with area retailers and UTV enthusiasts was terrific” Brinkley, Regional Sales Manager, stated.

***Looking from inside of the MB Quart setup onto the dunes.***

“This was our first UTV Takeover and was an amazing to see the UTV community members and families rolling across the dunes. Round trip for us it was an 800 mile drive but well worth it to connect with Chris and David. Since CarTunes is in the area we work with Fermin and his team” Mark Giovannetti commented.

***Mark Giovannetti, Fermin Sanchez and Chris Brinkley (LtoR) paused for a moment under the MB Quart tent.***

CarTunes owner Sanchez stated “We were very busy with sales out of our booth plus a lot of installations for MB Quart.” CarTunes staff members included Sanchez along with Lalo and Chris. They also had three helpers make the trip to the UTV
Takeover to help with installations and booth set up. Over the course of the event they did over a dozen MB Quart installations in addition to activities in the CarTunes booth.

Fermin added “Our retail store is a couple of hours away and is so important for us to let people throughout the area know to the great products that we sell and offer for UTV enthusiast. We have been on site at a number of UTV Takeovers and this event was the best to date.”