LAS VEGAS, NV (11.13.25) – Massive Audio, a global leader in innovation and technology within the car audio industry, proudly unveiled its official showcase vehicle during the SEMA Show 2025, one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world, held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Displayed at booth #10409, the vehicle quickly became one of the highlights of the show thanks to its striking design, powerful sound performance, and cutting-edge audio system engineered by the Massive Audio technical team.
John Velez (L) and Corey Hyler in the booth spotlighting new products.
Every element of this project was meticulously designed to embody the brand’s passion and commitment to excellence in automotive sound. From the selection of premium components to the seamless aesthetic and functional integration, this build represented Massive Audio’s vision: “Power. Performance. Precision.”
The car impressed not only with its bold visual presence but also with its competition-grade sound system, equipped with the latest in Massive Audio technology. Visitors experienced firsthand the power, clarity, and fidelity that define the brand, through exclusive demonstrations that showcased the precision and capability of every component.
Throughout the four days of the SEMA Show, booth #10409 became a central hub for distributors, installers, audio enthusiasts, and industry media. Massive Audio’s participation reaffirmed its global leadership and commitment to the car audio community, driving innovation and celebrating the culture of automotive sound at its highest level.
Massive Audio extends its gratitude to everyone who visited the booth, shared experiences, and joined in this milestone moment. This project symbolizes not only the strength of the brand but also the passion that unites an entire community devoted to the art of car audio.
FLUSHING, NY (11.13.25) – To prepare dealers across the Big Apple for the upcoming remote start season, East Coast USA—along with Firstech and the 12volt Marketing Group—hosted a dinner and Compustar training at the Good Fortune Restaurant in Flushing, NY, on Tuesday night, November 11th. Jason Ewing led the session, focusing on remote start and vehicle security categories at the popular venue.
Jason Ewing upfront conducting the Compustar Tech Training.
Over 100 attended the training.
As the evening began, more than 100 attendees gathered for the presentations and dinner, ready to gear up for the remote start season and explore the latest in vehicle security options. Frankie Mark of the 12volt Marketing Group was on hand, working with dealers for the brands his firm represents, including Maestro, iDataLink, Compustar, and Momento.
Albert Zandi, owner of East Coast USA, and his team orchestrated the event. “The turnout was terrific—as more than 100 guests took their seats, we were busy adding more tables. That was a great problem to have,” Zandi shared.
The Good Fortune restaurant is very popular in the big Big Apple.
Mark added, “The dinner and training evening was very productive, with many attendees saying it was a great way to prepare for the remote starter season. Everyone was engaged with Jason’s presentation, and seeing dealers connect and enjoy the delicious Chinese food selections with chopsticks added to the night.”
DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.13.25) – Troy Trepanier was crowned the overall winner of the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish competition with his stunning creation, a 1936 Ford roadster named “Fenderless.” Trepanier won the Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck category and edged out three other class champions — Tim Franklin (Sport Compact/Import Performance), Ron Jones (Off-Road), and Thomas Dickerson (BFGoodrich Young Guns) — to secure the overall title.
2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Overall Champion Troy Trepanier
Troy Trepanier’s 1936 Ford roadster (Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck Winner & Overall Champion)
Trepanier, a fixture in the custom car world, returned to the top of the industry’s most prestigious builder competition eight years after winning the Battle of the Builders title in 2017. His latest build captivated judges and fans alike at the 2025 SEMA Show with its flawless craftsmanship, balanced design, and innovative engineering.
“It was great to be back in the SEMA Battle of the Builders contest. It has grown a lot since we first won the event eight years ago,” said Trepanier. “We finally had a car worthy of being back in the competition. There were so many great cars this year. Everybody was a winner — the Top 40, Top 12, and especially the final four.”
Tim Franklin’s 1960 Porsche Custom 356 (Sport Compact/Import Performance Winner)
Completed in January 2025, Fenderless is a completely scratch-built vehicle designed to resemble a 1936 Ford roadster, but with every dimension reworked to achieve ideal proportions as an open-wheel car. Every major component of the project was fabricated in-house at Rad Rides by Troy in Manteno, Ill., including the body, chassis, suspension, and all machined parts.
Ron Jones’ 1973 VW Thing (Off-Road Winner)
Thomas Dickerson’s 1967 Chevrolet C10 (BFGoodrich Young Guns Winner)
The car features a 1957 McCullough-supercharged 312-cid Ford Y-block engine, paired with a Bowler 4R70W transmission and quick-change rear axle with torsion bar suspension. The bodywork, paint, and interior were handled entirely by Trepanier’s team, which finished the roadster with a modified Porsche Aventurine Green Metallic color to radiate elegance.
“Trepanier’s vehicle is a testament to the level of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation that define the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA Vice President of Marketing. “This program celebrates the builders who push the boundaries of what’s possible and inspire the next generation of automotive visionaries.”
SEMA Battle of the Builders recognizes the top vehicle builders in the world, celebrating innovation, craftsmanship, and passion within the automotive aftermarket industry. Franklin won Sport Compact/Import Performance with a 1960 Porsche Custom 356 that was in absolutely terrible condition before going through a transformation that resulted in contoured body/rolled rocker panels and a fresh streamlined look. Jones’ Off-Road-winning 1973 VW Thing was created from the ground up with a one-off chromoly long-travel tube chassis and featuring more than 350 machined pieces. Dickerson earned the BFGoodrich Young Guns title with a 1967 Chevrolet C10 that he built on his own with a custom engine bay, glass, headlights, and interior.
For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition and this year’s winners, visit www.sema.org/botb.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.12.25) – At the 2025 SEMA Show, the Automobility team had the pleasure of hosting over 80 clients and business partners for the Vegas Golden Knights versus Tampa Bay Lightning hockey match.
Automobility guests gathered for this group image.
From the HYDE Lounge all were able to look down at action on the rink.
“For Automobility, this was a fantastic evening of networking and celebration, bringing together key industry partners, clients, and colleagues to connect, share ideas, and enjoy an unforgettable game night experience in Vegas during SEMA 2025,” stated Rob Nelson.
On Thursday night, November 6th, guests were seated high above in the HYDE Lounge, where they had an amazing view of the hockey rink. Over 50 attendees from dealer teams and supplier staffs had their eyes glued to the on-ice action. During the first intermission, a message on the jumbotron from Automobility welcomed their partners to the game.
During the first intermission, the message on the Jumbotron welcomed Automobility guests.
Guests enjoyed connecting, refreshments and watching the match below
Jaysam Odeh, King Boxes, was one of the suppliers on hand. “Automobility is a great partner with our company. It was great to be included with their guests up in the fabulous HYDE Lounge to see the match. Also, it was super to see them and many of their dealers come by our booth in the North Hall at SEMA 2025,” Odeh stated.
Please put this down in the article somewhere.
Automobility team members at the event included Rob Nelson, Nima Jalilvand, Michael Berger, and Steve Coulombe. Nima contributed info for this article.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.12.25) – The Ellis Audio Design team made the 955-mile journey from Laurel, MT to Las Vegas to be on the floor at SEMA 2025.
Shawn Ellis, owner, related, “I have been to many CES and SEMA shows. This year we decided to take a group of our team to check out our vendor partners and the action at SEMA 2025. Our team totaled nine people, and eight were attending SEMA for the first time. It was terrific—they were able to meet one-on-one with our supplier members and their team members. Seeing products from so many categories was a great experience for them.”
The Ellis Audio Design team along with the MASSIVE AUDIO crew pictured in the booth on Day 1 at SEMA 2025.
On Day 1 of SEMA 2025, John Velez with Massive Audio sent an image of the Ellis Audio team in the Massive Audio booth, located prominently in the North Hall. “Ellis Audio is a great dealer in Laurel, MT, and really connects with consumers throughout their marketplace,” Velez shared. “It was terrific to see Shawn bring his team to check out the latest in-person in our booth and explore so many other products and opportunities around SEMA 2025.”
This large sign on one of the eight buildings can be seen from I 90 Interstate in Laurel MT.
When staff from 12volt Central Studios reached out to Ellis Audio Design, Shawn Ellis answered the phone personally. “Attending this year’s SEMA Show was terrific. I’ve attended 9 of the last 10 SEMA events and CES prior to that. We do much more than just car audio here in Laurel. Our setup includes eight buildings where we handle a wide range of automotive upgrades—motorcycles, side-by-sides, boats, window tint, and many other vehicle-related projects. We’ve been in business since 1982 and really connect with consumers throughout the area. As a brick-and-mortar retailer, we’re known as an audio enthusiast warehouse because we build strong relationships with customers and their families when they visit our store.”
This wall in the Ellis Audio showroom spotlightsMASSIVE AUDIO and a Harley loaded with MASSIVE AUDIO speakers.
Continuing, Ellis shared, “Massive Audio is a major brand in our store, and one wall is dedicated to showcasing their products. We have a Harley on the showroom floor loaded with Massive Audio gear, along with a neon sign highlighting the Massive Audio brand.”
Concluding, he added, “There were so many categories to check out across the massive LVCC that I—and some of our team members—walked seven miles each day.”
Watch for much more from 12volt Central Studios as we continue to extend the ROI for all from SEMA 2025.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.12.25) – SEMA revealed the recipients of its Visionary 8 program recognizing eight rising professionals for their leadership and impact in the automotive aftermarket. Open to SEMA members aged 35 and under, the program raises awareness of rising stars who are on track to change and/or advance the automotive specialty-equipment market. Criteria include having active industry involvement and the demonstrated talent, innovation, integrity, success, and leadership that is needed to become a driver of the industry.
“This year’s SEMA Visionary 8 have a work ethic and passion for the industry that is truly inspiring,” said Joe Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “We’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and thank them for their energy and fresh perspective that has elevated the aftermarket for the better.”
From left: Anna Glennon, Jose Acevedo, Ryan Rutledge, Adi Bathla, Emma Sauve, Jack Reusch, Payton Matlock, Kasey Saltness
The 2025 SEMA Visionary 8 honorees are:
Jose Acevedo, Owner/Photographer/Editor, Ace Graphix Through self-taught skills, a strong creative vision, and a relentless drive to grow, Acevedo became the youngest photographer published in Street Trucks Magazine. He has also landed multiple magazine front covers, earned the role of Editor for OBS Builder’s Guide, and organized his own truck show, “Rio Heat,” a grassroots event that highlights the power of community in South Texas.
Adi Bathla, CEO & Co-founder, Revv Bathla is a product strategist who has redefined the collision repair space through innovation and integration. As co-founder of Revv, he built a category-defining Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) platform that turns a VIN/estimate into OEM-required calibrations, compliant documentation, and insurer-ready invoices—cutting research time from hours to seconds.
Anna Glennon, Senior Account Executive, Khan Media Glennon helps brands find their voice and connect with audiences through dynamic storytelling and relationship building. Through her work at Khan Media, she has expanded opportunities for both established companies and emerging creators, helping to shape the next generation of industry communication.
Payton Matlock, OEM Specialist & New Business Developer, Transfer Flow, Inc. Matlock combines technical expertise with business insight to oversee full-cycle OEM projects from concept to production. Her ability to manage complex programs, support regulatory compliance, and drive co-branded product success has positioned her as a trusted partner for OEM innovation.
Jack Reusch, Head Coach, Texas Drift Academy Reusch was instrumental in the rapid growth of Texas Drift Academy, transforming the organization’s student experience and business model through new training strategies and curriculum offerings. He also established the first student internship program with Formula Drift, giving students the opportunity to gain experience at the highest level of professional drifting.
Ryan Rutledge, Director of Innovation, Air Lift Company Throughout his career, Rutledge developed multiple new electronic control systems for active suspension using machine learning algorithms to offer precise control while driving, on any vehicle, with any configuration. Interested in ADAS, he also actively collaborates with SEMA to advance industry understanding of how aftermarket products can integrate with advanced driver assistance systems.
Kasey Saltness, Event and Engagement Specialist, QA1 A connector of people and brands, Saltness has transformed QA1’s digital and event presence through innovative engagement strategies. From launching influencer programs to organizing national cruise events, she continues to build meaningful connections that strengthen the automotive community.
Emma Sauve, Creative Director, Mobsteel A photographer and videographer who blends artistry with authenticity, Sauve has successfully shaped the visual identity of Mobsteel and Detroit Steel Wheel. Her work has been featured in major industry publications and continues to capture the craftsmanship and culture that define the automotive aftermarket.
Entrepreneurship, insight, integrity, responsibility, and demonstrated skill all weighed heavily in the judges’ decision-making process. Nominations for next year’s SEMA Visionary 8 will open in Summer 2026.
OXNARD, CA (11.11.25) – Electrify Expo’s 2025 season stop is wrapping up in Texas, and Modus will exhibit and demo its award-winning 2024 Tesla Cybertruck build Nov. 15-16 at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Modus drove away from the most recent Electrify Expo on Long Island, N.Y with the show’s Best Vendor Vehicle award.
“During the 2025 Electrify Expos in Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, and on Long Island, Modus has become a featured stop that drew big crowds as attendees wanted to experience our Cybertruck demo,” said Jason Digos, Modus Senior Sales Trainer. “Once inside the Cybertruck, they were blown away as they didn’t realize such a high-end and powerful audio system can be integrated into today’s complex electric vehicles. We are excited for attendees in Texas to live this experience, as well.”
“Once again we will have the MODUS CyberTruck set up with live demos for attendees to experience” Jason Digos related.
The misconception that premium audio is merely a luxury add-on overlooks the soundstage potential of EVs. These vehicles offer something combustion engines never could: silent cabins paired with abundant electrical power, creating an unprecedented opportunity for truly immersive, audiophile-grade sound systems.
The Modus Cybertruck installation achieves several industry firsts, showcasing Modus’ innovative PREACT™ current-averaging technology operating directly on Tesla’s 48V DC electrical system. This marks a significant advancement in mobile audio integration with electric vehicles, capable of delivering 6,000 watts (RMS) of audio power without requiring voltage inverters or additional batteries, which is a first for any EV audio system. This was made possible through Modus’ patented PREACT technology in the new Mezzo amplifier line, which operates with unprecedented efficiency at higher voltages.
“Consumers are often wary of adding or altering audio components in Teslas and other EVs because of their sophisticated electrical systems, but we are educating them that the technology is available today to do so safely and effectively,” Digos concluded.
SEATTLE, WA (11.11.25) – Ladies and gentlemen it is training time.
November 17th to 20th
Reliable Product Marketing will be hosting 5 trainings this year. 4 nights of food, fun and freebies and a morning training for those that can’t stay out too late!
We will be going over ALL THINGS My Firstech so this training is for the entire store!
Learn about new products like New DRONE asset tracker Momento’s XC Updates and tech tricks! New Idata link remote start solutions and much much more! You will also learn the latest install tips and tricks straight from the MyFirstech training centers in Washington and Texas We are holding FIVE trainings All evening trainings are 6:00 to 9 pm But we have added a morning training in Lodi Ca from 9am to 12 am
We ask that you PLEASE plan to attend! Schedule light that afternoon and plan on closing early so you can be there on time. Trainings are an important part of our industry and if you don’t support them our vendors will stop supporting you. Please plan to attend!
Monday November 17th Sacramento/Natomas, CA Black Bear Diner
Tuesday November 18th Fresno, CA Black Bear Diner
Wednesday November 19th Lodi, CA Residence Inn 9 am – 12 pm AND Walnut Creek, CA Black Bear Diner
Thursday November 20th Milpitas, CA Black Bear Diner
Space is limited For more information and to RSVP Click the link below
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.10.25) – The SEMA Show 2025 wrapped on Friday, November 7th with the SEMA Cruise. Many attendees say this was the best SEMA Show they had ever attended, With that in mind the amazing SEMA Cruise was the icing on the cake!
The SEMA Cruise 2025 rolled out of the LVCC like a roaring parade of automotive dreams. Customized rides glided into the Las Vegas late afternoon dusk with exhausts echoing from the buildings on the strip. It was a moving gallery where builders showcased their creations as fans lined the streets with electric anticipation. Every headlight felt like a spotlight on the imagination. The SEMA Cruise 2025 was the perfect finale, loud and vibrant and unforgettable. Check out exciting images selected from the 2025 SEMA Cruise below.
From the 12volt Central Studios staff members will continue to work for weeks to showcase the exciting activities for exhibitors and all to extend the ROI for everyone’s very significant investments in time, energy and money.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.10.25) – Canadian distributor GEMSEN once again showed its dedication to supporting and energizing its dealer network by bringing over 20 Canadian dealers to this year’s SEMA Show.
GEMSEN hosted their annual KICKER Championship Dinner celebration on Wednesday night at the iconic Palms restaurant. Steve Irby, KICKER Founder, is pictured second from the left with GEMSEN owner Sal Riina on the left.
The annual automotive extravaganza proved to be an unforgettable experience, giving dealers the chance to experience first-hand the latest innovations and new product launches from the world’s leading brands.
Steve Irby (L) connecting with the GEMSEN team in the KICKER booth.
GEMSEN maximized the learning experience and organized exclusive guided booth tours with all their vendors, ensuring that attending dealers got up-close insights into the newest technology, product trends, and installation solutions shaping the 12-volt industry. From high-performance audio systems to cutting-edge vehicle integration tools, the tours gave Canadian retailers a true pulse on what’s next for the aftermarket.
The GEMSEN team checks out Garmin’s latest products at SEMA 2025.
Adding to the excitement, GEMSEN hosted their annual KICKER Champion Dealer celebration dinner Wednesday night at the iconic Palms Restaurant. The event featured a special guest of honor — Steve Irby, Founder of KICKER, along with VP Jay Ralston International Sales Manager Aziz Masri. Their presence underscored the strong partnership between GEMSEN and KICKER, and their shared commitment to the success of Canadian dealers.
“SEMA is such a great experience every year,” said Mike Danbrook of GEMSEN. “We’ve been bringing our dealers here for over 10 years now, and it just keeps getting better. It’s not just about seeing new products — it’s about spending time with our dealer partners and the brands we work with. Getting to share ideas, have real conversations, and enjoy the energy of the show together is what makes it so special.”
The energy, innovation, and camaraderie of the event perfectly reflected GEMSEN’s ongoing mission — to bring the best opportunities, products, and experiences to its loyal dealer network.
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