The In-Store Experience Can Drive Holiday Sales

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

SHREVEPORT, LA (12.08.25) – Christmas 2025 is just 17 days away. Holiday lighting outside the store and in the showroom can be a big ticket to drive sales for brick-and-mortar retailers. The in-store experience is more important than ever as the ever-growing AI universe and online activity add to the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar retailers across all categories.

Proactive 12volt retailers across the US are taking steps to create a Holiday theme at their stores. Below are examples of proactive 12volt retailers attracting consumers to their stores and creating the in-store experience. Social media posts spotlighting these activities are extremely important.

Proactive 12volt retailers have big cards in the deck to play to drive business. The “In-Store Listening Experience” and the “Professional Installation” cards are strong aces to play every day. The in-store experience of demonstrating top-quality sound with orchestrated live demos in the showroom is the first ace. Concertgoers are spending billions every year to enjoy the live music experience. Proactive 12volt retailers can put that concert experience in a consumer’s daily driver to enjoy on the way to work—without the big ticket price or the hassle of crowds in a concert arena.

Offering expert installation is another ace in the deck for 12volt retailers to play every day. Installation professionals understand the important aspects of speaker placement for staging and system tuning. Consumers need to understand the importance of professional installation to deliver the concert experience in their daily drivers.

For more see 12voltnews.com.

ZZ2 Mercedes DIZZPLAY Has Arrived

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

BOCA RATON, FL (12.05.25) — ZZ2, a leader in OEM-integrated automotive technology solutions, is proud to announce the newest addition to its growing product lineup: the DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, officially shipping on December 10th, 2025.

Following the overwhelming success of the DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement for BMW—which quickly became a top seller among dealers and installers nationwide—ZZ2 is expanding its next-generation infotainment upgrade to the Mercedes-Benz market, bringing larger 10.25″ to 12.3″ brighter HD displays and advanced connectivity. As always, the company stands behind its quality products with a 3-year warranty on all DIZZPLAY screen replacements.

Built on the powerful zOS Linux-based operating system, the new system delivers ultra-fast boot-up times and a seamless user experience that feels factory-made—only smarter and more capable.

Tiago Sperandio, Vice President of ZZ2, commented, “The response to DIZZPLAY in the BMW market has been nothing short of incredible. Dealers love how easy it is to install, and customers love how transformative the upgrade feels. Expanding DIZZPLAY to Mercedes-Benz was the natural next step. Our mission at ZZ2 has always been to elevate the driving experience through seamless, intuitive technology—and DIZZPLAY for Mercedes-Benz represents exactly that. We’re proud to deliver an upgrade that feels factory-made while offering the modern features today’s drivers expect.”

The DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement for Mercedes-Benz begins shipping December 10th, 2025, through authorized ZZ2 dealers and distributors.

Dealers interested in early access can visit ZZ2.com/dizzplay or contact their ZZ2 sales representative.

Remembering Jimmy Russell Cook Jr

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

KERNERSVILLE, NC (12.08.25) – Jimmy Cook, the owner of Sounds Good Car Stereo in Kernersville, NC, passed away on Monday December 1, 2025.

Sounds Good Car Stereo is a longtime 12volt retailer in Kernersville NC that is very connected with the community. Boomer Robinson, Ambassador Sales related, “Jimmy was a very good friend and customer for many years. Hearing the news that he had passed away was very sad for me, his family and his friends across the industry.”

David Holland, Shiflet & Dickson stated, “Jimmy was a very good customer and attended many of our dealer shows. It was a very sad day when I learned that he had passed away.”

Jimmy was just 50 years old and spent the majority of his life working in the 12volt industry. Jimmy was proceeded in death by his father Jimmy Cook Sr. He is survived by his mother and his wife Penny Cook along with two beloved children Rylee and Alexander. Funeral services and dates have not been determined.

Boomer Robinson, Ambassador Sales, contributed information to the 12volt Central Studios.

Drive Tech Audio And Accessories Is Driving Business In Glenolden, PA

Posted on December 4, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

Glenolden, PA (12.05.25) – Drive Tech Audio and Accessories has been driving 12volt business in the company’s amazing store since opening in July. Mike Fusto is at the wheel with copilot Chris Henry. The new location in Glenolden has an amazing presence from the street.

The interior went through a complete makeover to get a facility ready

Fusto has been in the 12volt industry since 1999 and is a dedicated mobile electronic specialist. Most recently he headed up the Sound of Tri-State location in Folsom PA. When Sound of Tri-State made the decision to close that location a door opened. Fusto saw an opportunity to continue in the 12volt electronics industry and planned this new location just miles away.

Mike Fusto making a social media post spotlighting Compustar products.

This classic spotlighted on the showroom floor.

Before opening the new location underwent a complete makeover in the interior. The facility also has amazing visibility from the busy street. Since opening business has been growing steadily with increases in sales each month. Black Friday continued the growth.

This large billboard out front draws attention to the toy bin just behind.

The Christmas Holiday season is now here to continue the forward momentum. For 4 years Fusto has worked closely with the Sassy Massey Toy Drive. That continuing support is happening this year with a large toy drop off bin in front of the new store. Stay tuned for much more on the toy drive.

DriveTech Audio and Accessories has quickly become the areas leading aftermarket shop for vehicle audio upgrades, CarPlay and Android Auto integration, alarms, remote starts, window tinting plus much more in automotive aftermarket upgrades.

Visit drivetechaudio.com for more.

RDVFL Launches the SDIN6 – A Premium Universal Single-DIN Radio With Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto & 3-Year Warranty

Posted on December 4, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

POMPANO BEACH, FL (12.05.25) – RDVFL, a leader in innovative car-infotainment solutions, announces the release of the SDIN6: a universal touchscreen single-DIN radio engineered to deliver high-end functionality, seamless connectivity and long-term peace of mind.

Key features of the SDIN6 include a 6.8-inch full HD (1080p) touchscreen display, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto connectivity, dual control: conventional knob plus touchscreen interface for ultimate flexibility, full dual-camera support: rear camera input and front camera input—ideal for multi-view parking, off-road, or custom installations plus auxiliary A/V input, Front & Sub RCA outputs (2V) with no fade.

The single DIN is built on Android 14 OS with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage: supporting YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, Google Play Store and more. Factory-grade amplification (19 W×4) for clean, powerful audio out of the box and the SDIN6 is backed by a full 3-year warranty—underscoring RDVFL’s confidence in product durability and long-term support.

Why the SDIN6 Matters. In today’s automotive aftermarket, many single-DIN radios compromise screen size, connectivity or both. The SDIN6 bridges that gap by offering a large, 6.8-inch full 1080P HD screen in a standard single-DIN form factor—and pairing it with true wireless smartphone integration and a long warranty. Whether upgrading a daily driver, customizing a performance build, or retrofitting a specialty vehicle, the SDIN6 is designed to deliver premium features in a compact footprint.

The SDIN6 is available now via RDVFL’s authorized distributor network and directly online at the SDIN6 – PRODUCT PAGE The retail price is listed at US $399.00.

For more see www.rdvfl.com.

VU Meter Technology. Compact Design. V-DRIVE SETS THE BAR!

Posted on December 4, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (12.05.25) – V-DRIVE amplifiers come in mono, 2-channel, and 4-channel configurations and feature clean and undistorted sound in a smaller space that takes audio to new levels of power for deeper output and richer listening gains.

PATENT PENDING VU Meter technology is placed directly on top of every V-DRIVE amplifier, allowing for convenient tuning for capturing the best possible sound from your Crunch car audio installation.
Selectable logo illumination modes include switching between full constant red LED lights, VU Meter mode, or full off.

For more information, click here.

Sanford Sound Celebrated 30 Years Throughout The Month Of November

Posted on December 4, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

SANFORD ME (12.O4.25) On November 4th, Jack Bogard announced Sanford Sound would observe a special celebration as a company commemorated 30 incredible years in business. On that day he announced the 30% off on a wide range of products to last through the month. Soon the word got out and consumers started to come in to check out the great 30% off deals for the 30th anniversary celebration.

***The 30 year balloon, along with specials, were in the showroom through the entire month of November.***

On Tuesday December 2nd Jack related to the 12volt Central Studios “November was a very busy month and sales were up over last year. Sanford Sound has become a part of the community over the 30 years. Many customers and friends just came in to congratulate our 30th anniversary. Our success has been driven by the great support of my wife Christine, family and our terrific Sanford Sound Team. Our staff engages with customers as Sanford Sound family members.”

***The selected 30% off items spotlighted in the showroom.***

The word also got out across the 12volt industry as friends called Jack with congratulations. Sony is a strong brand at Sanford. Anthony Tozzi sent a custom 30th Anniversary Trophy to Jack to commemorate the special occasion.

***Jack holds the SONY 30-Year congratulations trophy by the Sony display.***

“Our team planned parties for friends and good customers to be a part of the 30th Anniversary that began in 1995. “Sanford ME is such a wonderful community and we are planning for many more years going forward” Jack concluded.

***Friends and staff at one of the 30th Anniversary parties.***

***Another 30th Anniversary celebration party.***

Stay tuned for more as decorations are already in place inside and outside for the Holiday Season.

***December brought cold and snow and already Sanford Sound is decked out for Christmas!***

For more see sanfordsound.com

Lenovo CEO Yuanqing Yang To Keynote At CES 2026

Posted on December 4, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry News.

Lenovo brings Tech World to CES 2026 with the theme “Smarter AI for All”

December 4 ,2025 -The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) announced that Yuanqing Yang, Chairman and CEO, Lenovo will be a keynote speaker at CES 2026. The keynote is at 5:00 PM PT on Tuesday, January 6. Lenovo is bringing its flagship event, Tech World, to CES 2026. For the past decade, Tech World has been Lenovo’s platform to unveil new technologies, products, and solutions. This event is only open to credentialed CES attendees, and information on ticketing and logistics will be available soon.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Lenovo and Yuanqing Yang to the CES keynote stage. CES is where innovators show up, and I look forward to seeing his vision for the technology solving big global challenges come to life at the incredible Sphere,” said Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair, CTA.

Under Yang’s leadership, Lenovo has grown from the world’s #1 PC manufacturer to a US$69 billion global technology powerhouse serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets and manufacturing in 11 markets across five continents. Yang is passionate about tech advancing broader societal progress, not just business growth. He is the recipient of many awards and industry accolades, including Barron’s Best CEOs and the Edison Achievement Award.

Tech World @ CES will explore how Lenovo is defining the future through the fusion of AI, devices, infrastructure, and services. As a global technology partner for both Formula 1® and the FIFA World Cup 26™, the audience will see not only how Lenovo innovation will help individuals and businesses, but also how the company plans to use AI and its full portfolio of technologies to change the game for sports fans in the years to come.

“Over the past decade, Tech World has become Lenovo’s key platform to reveal our vision, showcase our innovation, and launch our most exciting products, solutions, and partnerships,” said Yuanqing Yang, Chairman and CEO, Lenovo. “Now, set against the backdrop of CES 2026, we’ll give the audience an exclusive look at how our technology has revolutionized F1, unveil our plans for the first-ever AI-powered FIFA World Cup next summer, and create a hyper-personalized agent-native experience for individuals while unleashing Lenovo Hybrid AI Advantage for enterprise customers. Sphere is the perfect match for Lenovo in Las Vegas, where we will celebrate and share our commitment to delivering smarter AI for all by constantly redefining how technology can engage, inspire, and empower.”

The event at Sphere, which will showcase content created exclusively for Lenovo by Sphere Studios, Sphere’s in-house immersive content studio, marks the second consecutive year that a CES keynote will be delivered at the cutting-edge venue. Tech World comes as Lenovo and Sphere enter a multi-year global partnership, making Lenovo An Official Technology Partner of Sphere Studios.

“Having the first-ever CES keynote at Sphere was a huge highlight of our 2025 show,” said Kinsey Fabrizio, President, CTA. “We look forward to experiencing how Lenovo will use Sphere to showcase how tech powers all industries.”

“As a venue at the forefront of innovation, Sphere is a powerful platform for visionary brands looking to create transformative events and experiences,” added Jennifer Koester, President and COO, Sphere. “We are honored to collaborate with Lenovo not only to help bring their vision to life during this CES Keynote, but also as part of our broader partnership that will leverage Lenovo technology to deliver immersive experiences across all Sphere events.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a CES keynote in Sphere — an event that will demonstrate how Lenovo is driving progress and reimagining our digital future.

Registration for CES 2026 opens this fall, and interested parties can sign up for alerts today at CES.tech.

SiriusXM Rings in the Holiday Season with Extensive Collection of Festive Channels

Posted on December 4, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

NEW YORK, NY (12.04.25) – SiriusXM announced the return of its beloved holiday music lineup with 23 seasonal channels including a variety of SiriusXM staples such as Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Radio, Hallmark Radio, Trans-Siberian Orchestra Radio, Mannheim Steamroller Channel and more. The holiday season officially kicks off today on SiriusXM with many channels live now in-car and streaming on the SiriusXM app.

SiriusXM’s long-awaited holiday lineup delivers nonstop cheer to listeners all season long with an extensive selection of festive music including traditional holiday favorites, classic Christmas carols and Hanukkah tunes, alongside genre-specific channels for any mood such as holiday pop, country Christmas, seasonal soul and more.

SiriusXM’s holiday channels are available to subscribers nationwide in their cars and on the SiriusXM app. Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM for free. Click here to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer. See Offer Details.

For more information, visit https://www.siriusxm.com/music/holidays.

SiriusXM’s Holiday Channel Line-Up

Christmas Spirit: Christmas music and family holiday favorites from contemporary Christian artists heard on SiriusXM’s The Message. Here, the reason for the season is not just remembered, He is celebrated in song! Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26 and on channel 65 from December 3 through December 26.

Cool Jazz Christmas: Elevate the season with a jazzy holiday soundtrack that is everything you need for a cool yule! Pour the eggnog and let the festivities begin with Christmas classics from some of the greatest contemporary and smooth jazz instrumentalists including Dave Koz, David Benoit, Jonathan Butler and Boney James, plus a sprinkling of some of the smoothest vocals of the season from the likes of Diana Krall, Laufey, Anita Baker, Take 6 and Natalie Cole. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Country Christmas: Country stars spanning many generations come together with both traditional and contemporary holiday songs. Hear music from artists including George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Willie Nelson, Lainey Wilson and more. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26 and on channel 58 from December 3 through December 26.

Hallmark Radio: Hallmark Radio is back for the holidays featuring timeless Christmas music and carols that celebrate the joy of the season. Hear the songs you love including new music from this year’s Hallmark original movies and series. Hallmark Radio is the perfect way to embrace the wonder of the season with loved ones near & far. Available on the SiriusXM app and channel 105 from November 4 through December 26.

Holiday Instrumentals: String, piano and orchestral versions of seasonal favorites designed to set the holiday mood. No vocals…just instruments playing holiday hits so you can sing along. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Holiday Pops: Celebrate the season with timeless Christmas carols and holiday favorites, featuring the genius of composers like Tchaikovsky and Handel, alongside performances from world-renowned ensembles such as the Philadelphia Orchestra, King’s College Choir, and the Boston Pops. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26 and on channel 78 from December 24 through December 25.

Holiday Traditions: Traditional holiday favorites by treasured artists that span the decades, along with some instrumental versions perfect for singing along! Available on the SiriusXM app year-round and on channel 71 from November 4 through December 26.

Holidays with Anne Murray and Friends: Anne Murray brings her iconic voice and warm storytelling to the holidays with festive music and cherished carols. Hear beloved favorites alongside her classic holiday recordings as she shares memories that celebrate the spirit of the season. From heartwarming traditions to unforgettable songs, this channel is the perfect way to enjoy the wonder of the holidays with family and friends. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Holly: Merry and bright holiday hits featuring songs by Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé, Dean Martin, Kelly Clarkson, Pentatonix, Josh Groban, John Legend, Brenda Lee, Train, Gwen Stefani and more. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through January 7 and on channel 79 from November 4 through December 26.

Jingle Jamz: Jingle Jamz features a mix of R&B and Hip-Hop artists from the 90’s to now, singing and rapping about the holidays. ’Tis the season to be jammin’ with artists like Alicia Keys, Boyz II Men, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, John Legend and more. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Radio: Jimmy Fallon spreads holiday cheer with his favorite festive songs, hilarious stories, heartfelt fan dedications, and appearances from his famous friends. Hear a joyful mix of timeless classics, modern hits, and a few surprises, all delivered with Jimmy’s signature humor. The channel spans every era and genre, including music from Jimmy’s Christmas album, Holiday Seasoning, plus artists like Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, Bing Crosby, the Jonas Brothers, Nat King Cole, Ariana Grande, Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra, Dolly Parton, and so many more! Available on the SiriusXM app and on channel 15 from November 4 through December 26.

Jolly Christmas: Upbeat, energetic holiday hits from The Chipmunks and Gene Autry to Mariah Carey and Jose Feliciano. Feel-good, singing along, bringing smiles to the season. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Kids Christmas: The soundtrack for the most magical time of year! Welcome the holiday season with songs the whole family will love. From holiday classics to today’s most jingle-jangling tunes: It’s all here on Kid’s Christmas! Rudolph, Santa Claus, and Frosty the Snowman take over the airwaves to delight both kids and kids-at-heart all season long. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Mannheim Steamroller Channel: Celebrate the holidays with Chip Davis of Mannheim Steamroller featuring their signature blend of symphonic, new age and rock inspired Christmas music. Explore more than four decades of their majestic sounds plus Chip’s groundbreaking Fresh Aire music. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Navidad: Festive Latin holiday sounds, including music from Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, José Feliciano, El Gran Combo, Marco Antonio Solís and Fania All-Stars. Available on the SiriusXM app and channel 626 November 4 through January 8.

New Year’s Nation: It’s a non-stop party with New Year’s Nation! Your ultimate upbeat multi-format mix featuring the year’s biggest now to next hits to ring in the new year! Available on channel 79 from December 27 through January 1.

Noël Incontournable: Hear francophone Christmas classics and contemporary holiday hits from the 60s to today with music from Ginette Reno, Bruno Pelletier and Laurence Nerbonne. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Radio Hanukkah: Extensive collection of Hanukkah-themed music, including contemporary, traditional and children’s selections as well as daily reflections and prayers related to the holiday. Available on the SiriusXM app December 14 through December 22.

Real Jazz Holiday: Bop and swing under the mistletoe with some of the most memorable Christmas classics that make for a “real” jazz holiday! Hear jazz masters like Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and the Count Basie Orchestra to today’s stars like Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy and Christian McBride. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Rockin’ Xmas: Get on Santa’s naughty list with Christmas songs that rock! Hear memorable holiday hits from AC/DC, Paul McCartney, Bon Jovi, U2, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Eagles, Blink-182 and more. Trim your tree and fill your stockings and ears with seasonal Classic Rock, Punk Rock, Hard Rock, Alternative Rock, Hair Metal and Blues Rock. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Sleep Christmas: Drift off to meditative versions of classic Christmas melodies and stay well-rested throughout the holidays with Sleep Christmas. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Smokey’s Holiday Soul Town: Celebrate the season with Smokey Robinson as he plays soulful holiday favorites from the 60s and 70s. From standards by Nat King Cole and Eartha Kitt, to classics from Stevie Wonder and The Supremes – you’ll hear them all in Smokey’s Holiday Soul Town! Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26 and on channel 74 from December 3 through December 26.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Radio: ‘Tis the season to rock with Trans-Siberian Orchestra! Dive into the realm where rock pushes classical boundaries, holiday classics fuse with powerful electric guitars and a diverse array of vocalists come together to create storytelling like no other. Hear the band’s iconic Christmas discography, exclusive concert recordings, and original shows hosted by band members and much more. Available on the SiriusXM app November 4 through December 26.

Visit www.siriusxm.com for more.

The 2025 Black Friday Sale Was Outrageous

Posted on December 1, 2025 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

PORTLAND OR (12.01.25) The Outrageous Audio name says it all about the company’s 2025 Black Friday Sale on Friday, November 28th, at the company’s Portland OR store. Customers started lining up before 3AM in the below freezing temperature. When the doors opened at 5AM Owner Blane Hartleb welcomed the first in line, Luke, who had actually camped out since 11PM Thursday night. Luke was the first of hundreds as the line wrapped the building. Luke was also the first in line in 2024.

***Customers and vehicles wrapped the store as Blane Hartleb welcomed Luke, the first customer in line, when the doors opened.***

“We have been having Black Friday events for over two decades. This event was definitely in the top two or three. After we run the sales totals it will be up there again. Our team did a great job getting everything ready and it paid off…. BIG TIME. The support we received from Rob Sutton and the Crossover Marketing crew in the house was very much appreciated” Hartleb related.

***The Crossover Marketing team Rob Sutton, Paul Pilat and Luke Pilat R/L upfront when the doors open.***

Early Black Friday morning the 12volt Central Studios received 2 txts from Rob with groups of images from the early morning action. Crossover Marketing crew members Rob and Sam Sutton, along with Paul Pilat and Luke Pilat, were on site working the event with the 9 member Outrageous Audio team.

***The entire Outrageous Audio crew gathered for an image before the doors opened.***

“Once again Rob was at the door and store was packed at 6AM and customers were still lined up outside plus the parking lot was jammed well into the morning” Hartled related. Our crew was busy writing big tickets with CarPlay products plus amps, speakers, woofer and speaker boxes. The installation bays were soon full as they were past dark” Hartled added.

***The sales counter was 2 and 3 deep has customers paid for their products.***

There were months of planning that contributed to this Outrageously successful event. Sutton and the crew left the Battle Ground WA area at 3:45AM for the 30 mile drive to Portland for a 4:30AM arrival before the doors opened at 5AM. The menu for the long day was planned in advance with the installers and sales staff bringing something to share. Installers brought full crockpots and grill outside was sizzling and smoking all day.”

***This customer will be ‘Livin’Loud’ with his KICKER gear that Luke Pilat is helping him carry to his car.***

The very successful event was slated to wrap at 7PM. But with all large successful events there were customers completing the sales process and installers were finishing installations that filled the bays all day well past 7PM.

***A few of the full crockpots ready for team members to enjoy throughout the long day.***

The Outrageous Black Friday 2025 truly showcased 12volt industry members working together. Vendors and Crossover Marketing worked with a very proactive specialty retailer to connect with consumers to drive business and enjoyment for those consumers.