PITTSBURGH, PA (01.28.25) – Team Nutz, a very proactive 12volt retailer in the Pittsburg area, had a very strong showing at the recent World of Wheels at the David Lawerence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh Friday thru Sunday-Januay 24th-26th.
The Team Nutz 70’ x 90’ main booth was filled with demo vehicles, tents, show car displays, live installations and importantly consumers. The Team Nutz staff of 15 worked the show that actually featured 3 booths including Fuel Required.
Soon after the event opened the aisles were filled as people checked out the booth.
The Team Nutz booths engaged attendees all three days.
Ed Nuttall, for Team Nutz, stated, “The attendance was reported to have topped 20,000 and members of the crowd were really interested automotive enthusiasts. We had literally over 10,000 customized swag items including pens, stickers, tote bags, screw drivers and lanyards we handed out to attendees.”
The event got off to a very fast start as about 1400 local high school students were bussed to the event. At the event a meeting was set up in an upstairs meeting room where Nuttall addressed the students about the automotive aftermarket products that the students could experience in the Team Nutz booth. Seeing a majority of those students in the Team Nutz midday was a great way to get the event rolling. The visibility for Team Nutz at the event will lead to very active days at the store following the World of Wheels event for those students.
This customized Challenger featured live Audison/Hertz DPS demos.
The Team Nutz Jeep grabbed eyeballs.
Live wrap demos and more filled the Team Nutz area.
To prepare to extend the ROI from the World of Wheels Team Nutz redoubled their efforts to connect with consumers via social media. The main focus was customized QR Codes specifically designed to be scanned to connect to Team Nutz Facebook, Instagram and Google platforms. Attendees scanning the QR Codes were entered for prizes at the event. “We gained hundreds of followers and boosted our Google rating from the custom QR Codes and gave away over 500 Team Nutz T-Shirts” Nuttall commended.
Nina Nuttall with her Outstanding Award Ride
Extreme customized rides filled the booth.
This T-shirt was custom QR Codes was a BIG winner at the event!
Continuing “We have been attending the World of Wheels for 22 years and we were awarded an Outstanding Vehicle Award. Nina Nuttall’s truck project drew a lots of eyeballs to earn the award.”
Another takeaway from recent activities and at the World of Wheels had been connecting with more car clubs and enthusiast groups.
Mike posted several videos each day from the show.
“All at Team Nutz and partners certainly put a lot into pulling off this event. We worked over 3 days to set up and tear down took 1.5 hours this year…compared to 3 hours last year. We put our company and products in front a very large number of people. Literally thousands went home with some swag with our name on it too. All in all I think the show was a huge success. We look forward to more big events at the David Lawrence Convention Center. When we opened the store the day after the World of Wheels the phone was” ringing of the hook” Nuttall concluded.
OXNARD, CA (01.28.25) – BOSS Audio Systems is excited to announce it will exhibit during KnowledgeFest 2025, held in Las Vegas, Nev. January 31 – February 2 at The Paris Hotel and Convention Center, booth # 410.
“KnowledgeFest is the perfect place to debut our new branding and showcase the power of the expanded Elite line,” said Matthew Delgado, BOSS Audio Systems Director of Sales. “It’s not just about showing off new products, it’s also about connecting with installers and industry pros to learn from them and spark future ideas.”
This year, BOSS is unveiling a fresh brand look and a modern update to its well known Elite line of audio products. Visitors will get a first look at the latest in mobile audio tech, with new head units, amplifiers, and other gear designed to take in-car entertainment to the next level. Select head units will now feature an updated GUI, expanded DSP customization as well as Maestro iDatalink compatibility. The Elite line will also feature brand new amplifiers in the auto and marine categories. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a full Elite audio system firsthand in our exclusive demo car and interactive product displays.
As one of the top events for the car audio world, KnowledgeFest offers workshops, training sessions, and a buzzing trade show floor. BOSS is excited to once again sponsor Jon Kowanetz who will be teaching a seminar titled “Tipping the Scales” which addresses the well-known truth in retail sales that “All else being equal, the customer will buy from the lowest price.”
Visit BOSS Audio in booth 410 to check out BOSS Audio’s lineup, including audio gear and more for car, powersports, motorcycle, and marine audio.
JASPER, IN (01.28.25) – Meyer Distributing announces its 2024 Fourth Quarter Outstanding Sales Performance Award. This award recognizes individuals on the sales team who consistently exceed expectations at Meyer Distributing.
Our 2024 Fourth Quarter Outstanding Sales Performance Award goes to: Amanda Huff, Senior Leads Coordinator.
Pictured left to right: Cody Ziegler, VP of Sales; Amanda Huff, Senior Leads Coordinator; Kristin Kellams, New Business Development Manager.
“Amanda has been part of the Meyer family for nearly nine years and has made a tremendous impact as the Senior Leads Coordinator,” states Kristin Kellams, Meyer’s New Business Development Manager. “She is heavily integrated with the sales department in the development and implementation of refining current processes while incorporating new ones. Her quick responsiveness to sales requests is second to none and appreciated by all. Amanda’s attention to detail and accuracy for all aspects of her job is impeccable. She shows up every day with a “can do” attitude and gets it done! Meyer is pleased to have Amanda as part of our work family!”
“In my time at Meyer, I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunities presented to me and seeing the growing success of Meyer,” Amanda Huff responds. “Examples of my growth include: building relationships with our dispersed Meyer team and vendors, having my ideas heard and implemented, assisting other departments and roles, and assisting in training new employees. I look forward to continuing to grow with Meyer. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Meyer Distributing is a complete international automotive and RV/towing distributor. With 109 locations nationwide and over 3,500,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, Meyer has a huge inventory of parts to service their customers. With strategically positioned warehouse facilities, Meyer Distributing can provide next day delivery to most locations using Meyer Logistics direct ship.
GUTHRIE, OK (01.27.25) – The expanded 2025 KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series was Livin’Loud in the huge Lazy E Arena in Guthrie on Friday night January 24th for Round 7. The Lazy E Arena in Guthrie is a mere 33 miles from KICKER’s World HQ in Stillwater, OK.
Rick Dewey, Marketing Pros, in the booth and ready for the doors to open.
The track the action was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Since KICKER’s HQ is so close there was a large turnout of nearly 300 KICKER team members and family were in the stands. In addition KICKER dealer Audio Extremist with Neil Boswell from Oklahoma City was in the house along with Rick Dewey from the Marketing Pros rep firm.
The Pit Party got everything going Friday night.
The crowd of over 5,000 filled the stands.
“It was an amazing event with great action on track and a packed house that extended to the grand stand and VIP Area with many tables. Attendance estimate was 5000 enthusiasts and some traveled from over an hour away. The Lazy E Arena doors opened early for the long line that took 30 minutes to enter the arena. We had a KICKER tent and displays set up adjacent to the track area so virtually everyone who entered the Lazy E Arena had a chance to check out the KICKER setup. We had a selection of KICKER products for all to see. The KICKER Polaris General was on hand for all to checkout. As attendees entered by the booth we handed out hundreds of KICKER lanyards. Attendees asked Neil and Rick many questions and Neil handed out a ton of Audio Enthusiasts cards” Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media, related.
Riders on the track making a tight turn.
Riders flying high over the mounds.
The Pit Party got the action started on the track with enthusiasts walking the track and talking with riders and checking out their rides. In addition to the racing action on the track an air cannon fired KICKER T-shirts into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. A special KICKER T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby.
Neil Boswell and Lorin Morrell (R) present the KICKER Bullfrog prize to the T-shirt toss winner.
Concluding Morrell added “The next event is in Reno NV with Round 8 January 31st and Round 9 February 1st. I look forward to being at the event to orchestrate KICKER activities in Reno again. Nevada Auto Sound, with Thomas, will again be Livin’Loud in the house.”
PHOENIX, AZ (01.27.25) – “In a world where sound quality and bass control are paramount, the ORION OLC2 – Two-Channel Line Out Converter With Bass Processor reigns supreme!” Bill Turner, Orion’s Vice President of Dealer Success shares, “The OLC2 is a game-changer! It allows every vehicle to transform into an Orion sound system, while retaining the factory head unit.”
“Are you tired of settling for mediocre audio quality? Look no further than the OLC2 Two-Channel Line Out Converter With Bass Processor! Step into a whole new dimension of audio bliss as this little powerhouse revolutionizes your sound setup.” Bill Turner exclaims, “My music has never sounded better! The OLC2 truly takes the listening experience to the next level.”
Boasting high-power speaker-level inputs, flexible outputs, TRUBASS® Processing, signal sensing, and remote level control input, the OLC2 outshines all other converters in the market. Bill Turner adds, “The bass processor is simply revolutionary. I can fine-tune the bass frequencies to suit my personal taste, giving me full control over how my music feels.”
Featuring a compact design and seamless compatibility with most factory systems and aftermarket components, the OLC2 ensures a user-friendly and clutter-free installation. Bill Turner attests, “Installation was a breeze, even for a non-tech expert like me. It seamlessly integrated with my existing audio system, and the compact design allowed for a discreet installation while still keeping the factory head unit.”
With the OLC2, your audio adventure is about to get a whole lot more exciting! Bill Turner urges, “Upgrade your sound today with the ORION OLC2 and experience the perfect blend of power, precision, and versatility! Make your system Proud to be loud!”
Specifications: • Input Handling (400W max input) • Maximum Output Level: 9.5Vrms • Output Gain +/- 12dB • Variable Input Selector: 20Ω, 60Ω, 20kΩ • Variable Output Level: +/- 12dB • Frequency Response: 20Hz – 50kHz • Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.01% • Signal to Noise: >110 dB • Power Consumption: 200mA • Recommended Fuse Rating: 1 AMP • Dimensions: 6.9 x 3 x 1” | 175 x 76 x 25mm
Retailers, ORION IS BACK.
Don’t just take our word for it. Embark on a FREE test ride. Select up to $500 worth of Orion ducts, test them out for 60 days risk-free, and enjoy complimentary round-trip shipping on us,” says Bill Turner, Vice President of Dealer Success. “Contact us at family@orioncaraudio.com today to explore the world of Orion and take advantage of this unparalleled opportunity.”
CHICAGO, IL (01.27.25) – AXPONA (Audio Expo North America), the largest high-end audio event in North America, is excited to announce the debut of its Car Audio Showcase at the 2025 edition, which will be held from April 11-13 at the Schaumburg Convention Center. In partnership with the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA), AXPONA is expanding its footprint to include the growing trend of high-fidelity car audio, offering car enthusiasts and industry professionals a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge car audio systems and innovations.
“The Car Audio Showcase is a groundbreaking addition that taps into the increasing demand for high-fidelity audio systems in vehicles. As in-car audio technology has evolved dramatically over the past decade, car audio enthusiasts are looking for the same clarity and precision they experience in their home systems,” said Liz Smith, AXPONA. “The Car Audio Showcase will bring these high-end systems into the spotlight, offering attendees an immersive experience like never before.”
“We’re thrilled to be part of AXPONA’s inaugural Car Audio Showcase. Our IASCA team can’t wait to demonstrate the incredible potential of car audio and show the world what’s possible when passion, precision, and technology come together. We’re redefining expectations of automotive sounds and encourage seasoned audiophiles and novices to swing by the showcase for a demo session,” said Travis Chin, President of IASCA.
A New Level of Sound at AXPONA
This year’s Car Audio Showcase will feature a thrilling Sound Quality (SQ) competition, live demonstrations, and interactive exhibits highlighting some of the best in-car audio technology from top-tier manufacturers and dealers from around the world.
AXPONA’s live Sound Quality (SQ) competition will feature manufacturers and consumers who will compete for top honors in achieving unparalleled sound clarity and precision in custom-built car audio systems. Competition vehicles will be on the expo floor in a designated area and also be available for spectator demos throughout the show.
Attendees will be able to engage directly with leading car audio brands and see their innovations up close. With interactive displays and hands-on demonstrations, visitors will witness the performance and capabilities of cutting-edge products firsthand. Notable exhibitors include:
Apex USA Audio Wave, USA Coherence Systems ESB Audio Delorean Harman International Malbork Zapco Open to the public, AXPONA offers a variety of ticket options for attendees.
TICKETS:
1 Day – $30 online, $35 onsite
Multi-Day – $60 online, $95 onsite
Gen Z Pass – $15 online, $20 onsite
All general admission tickets grant access to the exhibits including Listening Rooms and Exhibit Hall, as well as educational seminars, live music, and special events.
AXPONA opens Friday, April 11 10am-6pm; Saturday, April 12 10am-6pm; and Sunday, April 13 10am-4pm.
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (01.25.25) The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 6.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 306th time on Friday morning on January 24th. The Wheel landed on the Q-Power space and the King of Custom slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning spin slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.
We will reach out to the lucky winner in Florida to let them know a Q-Power prize will be headed their way.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the 12volt marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, Kenwood, JVC, THINKWARE, Race Sport Lighting, EBS Audio, King Boxes, Lids-On-Demand, Massive Audio and VIPER. 12volt News $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the winning 12volt retailer.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA, Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD, Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY, Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA, BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL, Audio Systems in Montclair CA, Fitment_nyc_shop in Jamaica NY, King Audio in Norwalk CT. Foss Audio in Tukwila WA, OG Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, Tint and Tunes in Sacramento CA, Dr Dashboard in Evansville IN, The Sound Shop in Chino CA, Extreme Concepts in Albertville AL,The-King of Custom in Longwood FL, Car Audio Depot in Modesto CA and Audio Dreams in Acworth GA, PCH Custom Audio in Long Beach CA, Crazy Ralph’s Car Stereo in Gonzales LA, Joe’s Cycle Therapy in Somerset MA, Cal Custom Audio in Tracy CA, NWA Audio in Bentonville AR, XT Audio in Miami, Tim’s Audio in Newport OR, Build’s By Paul in Litchfield AZ, DAW Discount Audio in Paramount CA and M12 Audio in Bluefield WVA, Jam City Pros in Caddo Mills TX, Finishline Shop in Lumberton NJ, Genuine Custom Audio in Riverside CA,Ballistic Autowerks in Hagerstown MD, Jeff’s Custom Car Audio in Royce TX, Pitbull’s in Houston, Aspen Sound in North Spokane WA, CP Designs in Jarrell TX, D&B Sales in Ft Wayne IN and Precision Car Audio and Tint in Riverview FL
Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s The Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 306 on Friday, January 31st.
EDMOND, OK (01.24.25) – Petra Industries, the consumer technology authority and wholesale electronics distributor, congratulates Gerald Cruz, Director of Business Development for Petra, for his role as an industry expert judge for the 2025 CES Innovation Awards. Held in conjunction with the annual CES® show, the most powerful tech event in the world, this prestigious awards competition honors the most outstanding consumer technology products in the world across 33 categories. This is the second time Cruz has served as a judge; the first was for CES 2022.
Cruz joined a panel of 268 other judges in reviewing product submissions. He was assigned two categories—Headphones and Personal Audio and Smart Pet Technology. Each category contained about 60 products. After thoroughly examining each product, judges individually answered a questionnaire and gave it a score. Scoring criteria included aesthetics and design, engineering and functionality, and what made the product innovative and unique. Another group then reviewed the judges’ answers and awarded Honoree status to top-scoring products while Best of Innovation awards went to the highest-scoring ones.
“As a CES Innovation Award Judge for 2025, I was truly honored to be part of this incredible experience again,” said Cruz. “The level of innovation and emerging technology showcased was nothing short of inspiring. From groundbreaking advancements in the Headphone and Personal Audio space to the creative solutions in Smart Pet Technology, the ingenuity I witnessed will shape the future of our connected world.”
Before coming to Petra, his last role was Sr. Director/DMM over Mobility at Radio Shack. Cruz served over 15 years in senior management there, where he oversaw mobility operations for both company-owned and franchise locations. He brings over two decades of proven success in corporate leadership across a broad range of roles in sales and operations, consistently delivering long-term partnerships and sustainable business growth.
“We are thrilled and honored that Gerald was chosen as a 2025 CES Innovation Awards judge,” said Tate Morgan, Petra President. “This honor speaks volumes about Cruz and how highly regarded he is in the industry. We are thankful for the insights and depth of experience he brings to our company and to the consumer technology industry in general.”
OXNARD, CA (01.24.25) – BOSS Elite, a leader in aftermarket car audio systems, proudly announces its newest line of car headunits is now fully compatible with iDataLink Maestro interfaces. This exciting development allows drivers to retain critical OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) features while upgrading to a cutting-edge, large-screen aftermarket stereo system.
“We’re thrilled to bring this new level of versatility to our customers,” said Matthew Delgado, BOSS Elite Director of Sales. “This collaboration with iDataLink Maestro ensures that our large-screen headunits don’t just enhance the driving experience with superior audio and visuals, but also preserves the convenience and functionality of the factory-installed features that drivers rely on.”
The new BOSS Elite headunits (BE14ACP.WX, BE12ACP.WX, BE10ACP.WX, BE9ACP.WX, BE7ACP.WX) are designed to deliver a seamless integration experience, combining advanced functionality with an easy-to-use interface. Thanks to the iDataLink Maestro compatibility, users can now enjoy enhanced control over their factory-installed systems, including vehicle diagnostics, climate controls, and steering wheel audio functions.
Key Features of the New BOSS Elite iDataLink-Ready line include: • iDataLink Maestro Compatibility: Retains OEM features such as vehicle settings, factory camera views, and steering wheel controls. • Large, High-Resolution Screens: Enhanced display quality for navigation, multimedia, Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. • Intuitive Interface: A user-friendly interface for smooth interaction and quick response. • Universal Fit: Designed to suit a wide range of vehicle makes and models.
This new line continues BOSS Elite’s legacy of combining high-end technology with affordability, ensuring that a premium aftermarket audio experience is accessible to all.
Current BOSS Elite headunit models that end in .WX have the capability to work with iDataLink modules through a software update only at BOSSelite.com.
The new Elite headunits shipping iDataLink-ready will be available starting Q2 2025 through authorized retailers and online at BOSSelite.com.
LOS ANGELES, CA (01.24.25) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is expanding its footprint in California with the launch of its 13th location, now in Marina del Rey.
Tint World Marina del Rey, owned and operated by Zaw Pine Naing, offers world-class aftermarket styling, window tinting, paint protection films, premium audio upgrades, lighting and effects, and security systems for both vehicles and watercraft.
“Starting and owning my own business in this beautiful coastal community is a dream come true, and Tint World’s unparalleled support has made this possible,” said Zaw Pine Naing. “There is incredible demand in the area for aftermarket upgrades and services for watercraft and automobiles alike, and my team and I are looking forward to providing our customers with the very best solutions available.”
Naing’s Tint World location provides premium automotive and marine styling services throughout Marina del Ray and the surrounding Los Angeles County area, including Mar Vista, Venice, Oakwood, Playa Del Rey, Sunkist Park, and Fox Hills.
“Marina del Rey is home to the nation’s largest man-made recreational harbor and a premier destination for high-end boaters, so we knew we needed a strong leader and team to represent our brand,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Naing’s experience and enthusiasm make him a perfect fit for our Tint World family, and they will serve him well in this bustling, discerning community. We look forward to supporting him with the training, tools and marketing necessary to achieve his goals and cement Tint World as L.A. County’s choice supplier for drivers and boaters.”
Tint World Marina del Rey is located at 4130 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Marina Del Rey, call 424-467-1199 or visit the store online.
12VoltNews.com 