PHOENIX, AZ (12.20.24) – Fullbay, the turn-key platform that improves the operational efficiency of heavy-duty repair shops, has contributed over $15,000 to industry-focused charity organizations in 2024, bringing its total contributions since launching the Fullbay Cares initiative in 2020 to more than $100,000. The initiative demonstrates the company’s enthusiasm toward giving back and supporting the heavy-duty repair community by providing charitable donations, educational resources, opportunities to volunteer, and more.
This year, Fullbay dedicated significant support, along with copies of its most recent Truck Tales children’s book, to the Sleigh Bells and Santa campaign, organized by Truckers Final Mile, which provides presents to children of commercial truck drivers who lost their lives this past year. Truckers Final Mile is focused on reuniting truck drivers and their families in the event of a loss of life, debilitating injury, serious illness, crisis or the need to make mobility improvements at a driver’s home.
“Each year, Fullbay is proud to support a number of meaningful organizations and give back to our heavy-duty community,” said Patrick McKittrick, CEO of Fullbay. “I’m overwhelmed by our industry’s desire to give back and the generosity of the individuals we work alongside.”
(12.20.24) – Porsche, renowned for its high-performance sports cars, is leaning further into the tech-driven future by expanding in-car YouTube functionality across its lineup. Originally available on the all-electric Macan, YouTube streaming will now be offered as a standard feature in models such as the 911, Taycan, Cayenne, and Panamera. Existing vehicles with compatible systems will receive this feature through an over-the-air update to the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system.
The announcement reflects the broader industry trend of making infotainment systems central to the driving experience. While in-car streaming may seem like a luxury for mass-market brands, Porsche is aiming to enhance passenger entertainment and provide more connected experiences for its customers.
For single-screen models like the 911, YouTube streaming will only be available when the car is stationary, prioritizing safety. However, models equipped with secondary passenger screens—such as the Taycan EV—will allow for video viewing during motion, making long road trips more engaging for passengers.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (12.20.24) – Feel your power through performance in every beat with STREET MACHINE amplifier innovation. Whether you are seeking crisp sound quality or craving LOUD playback for a dynamic ride, STREET MACHINE amplifiers offer the perfect blend of power, precision, and reliability.
The STREET MACHINE series is built to provide a complete high-octane audio experience, perfect for audio enthusiasts who want to get the most out of their sound system with compact performance. The line of STREET MACHINE (SM) amplifiers features monoblock, 2-channel, and 4-channel amplifier designs.
Durability MATTERS. The STREET MACHINE series of amplifiers feature a high-efficiency aluminum heat sink design, ensuring that they stay cool even during extended and longer use. This means less risk of overheating, allowing you to enjoy long drives without sacrificing performance or sound.
Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into every STREET MACHINE amplifier through a low voltage circuit delivering minimal distortion through the amplification process — making audio clean and smooth in sound.
Equipped with a Pro-Fi High-Speed MOSFET power supply, these amplifiers are designed to deliver efficient and stable power to your sound system. This results in improved sound clarity and reduced distortion, even at higher and louder volumes. You can count on consistent, clean sound in any song.
The compact design and user-friendly installation process means less time spent configuring, and more time enjoying your newly enhanced compact audio system. Plus, with a compact innovative design, you can seamlessly integrate any SM amplifier into tight spaces where your vehicle setup allows.
Whether you are upgrading an existing car audio system or building a new one, STREET MACHINE amplifiers are designed to give you the compact and audio performance edge in music you’re looking for. With their rugged construction, enhanced powerful playback, and Autotek’s renowned durability, you can rely on your SM amplifier to enhance your driving experience for years to come.
TAKE ON THE STREETS with MEAN COMPACT POWER in every beat! Learn more HERE about the entire line of STREET MACHINE amplifiers.
ORLANDO, FL (12.19.24) – VOXX International Corporation (NASDAQ: VOXX) (“VOXX” or the “Company”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of automotive and consumer technologies for the global markets, as well as strategic joint ventures including biometrics, today announced that VOXX and Gentex Corporation (NASDAQ: GNTX) (“Gentex”) have entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger (“Merger Agreement”) for Gentex to acquire VOXX in an all-cash transaction. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, Gentex will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of VOXX common stock not already owned by Gentex for $7.50 per share, representing an aggregate enterprise value of approximately $196 million.
The $7.50 per share merger consideration represents a premium of approximately 163% to the Company’s unaffected closing Class A common stock price of $2.85 on August 26, 2024, the last trading day before VOXX publicly announced that its Board of Directors was conducting an exploration of strategic alternatives in an effort to maximize stockholder value, as well as the public disclosure that Gentex had made an unsolicited proposal to acquire VOXX at $5.50 per share. After several months of a robust sales process led by a transaction committee of directors unaffiliated with Gentex, working with the committee’s independent financial advisor, Solomon Partners, and meeting with an extensive field of prospective purchasers, both strategic and financial, the transaction was approved unanimously by the Company’s transaction committee and by the disinterested members of its Board of Directors.
Ari Shalam, Chairman of the board of directors of VOXX, stated “the transaction with Gentex ensures a seamless transition for our brands, employees, customers and partners. After a thorough and exhaustive sales process, the disinterested members of the board, the transaction committee and I unanimously support this decision, believing that it represents the best and most reliable path forward to maximize value for all VOXX stockholders. My father, John Shalam, who founded VOXX 60 years ago, and I are incredibly proud of the legacy we have built and the remarkable accomplishments of the VOXX team. We are confident that under Gentex’s stewardship, VOXX’s legacy will continue to thrive for the benefit of our stakeholders.”
Simultaneously with the execution of the merger agreement, John and Ari Shalam, along with certain family members, entered into a voting agreement pursuant to which they agreed to vote their shares of common stock in favor of the proposed merger, with such voting obligation terminating should the Merger Agreement be validly terminated or the Board of Directors or transaction committee making a recommendation adverse to the Merger Agreement and the merger. The Shalam family beneficially own 1,935,898 shares of Class A common stock and 2,260,954 shares of Class B common stock, representing approximately 57% of the outstanding voting power of the Company’s common stock. The Shalam family will receive the same $7.50 per share merger consideration for their shares of Class A and Class B common stock as other VOXX stockholders, demonstrating their full alignment with other VOXX stockholders.
The proposed transaction, which was approved by VOXX’s Board of Directors, acting on the unanimous recommendation of a transaction committee of the Board of Directors comprised entirely of directors unaffiliated with Gentex, is expected to close during the first quarter of calendar year 2025. The proposed transaction is subject to stockholder approval, receipt of anti-trust regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.
KNOXVILLE, TN (12.19.24) – The Performance & Racing Industry Show 2024 is known as the source of motorsports trends, merchandising ideas, new products, business strategies and more. The PRI Show hosts over 1,000 companies, and we stood out in a big way. As the leader of technology in the 12-volt, 14-volt, and 16-volt energy storage space, we debuted professional racer Bryant Goldstone’s brand-new Drag & Drive 1953 Corvette. This car was painted to match his existing XS Powered AMC Javelin, but his Corvette will host a plethora of upgrades over the Javelin.
Powered by our 14-Volt Titan8 PWR-S6, Bryant will be using all 1500 cranking amps to spin over his Steve Morris Engines SMX billet big block. The SMX is known to make well over 4,000hp with ease, and is a proven engine to go fast. Bryant was no stranger to us, as we’ve worked with him for years on different projects throughout his racing career. Bryant made the switch to a 14v system after seeing how well his fueling components worked at a higher voltage and was a no brainer when building this car. The battery is conveniently and tightly packed behind the passenger seat, and the wiring job was neatly and efficiently done to make sure there were no issues with current flow to his engine or components.
This car will compete in many Drag and Drive events in 2025, and the sport has gained popularity over the past couple of years. Drag & Drive encompasses the true meaning of a street car; not only do you have to make a fast pass down the track, but you also have to be able to do some miles on the street, hence the term Drag and Drive. With any fast car, getting more power to your components is key, and our Titan8 products deliver with ease the current needed for high performance fuel pumps, injectors, and so on.
On display, we had a huge array of our offerings. On the main table of our booth, we showcased our tried-and-true D3400 next to our Titan8 PWR-S5-3400. Those options side by side show a true comparison of the performance of our 12v Titan8 line of products, with the performance and weight savings being the biggest proponents in comparison. While the D3400 has more reserve capacity, we have something on the horizon we’ll be adding to our Titan8 lineup soon that will dwarf our D3400 in comparison.
Down the line we had our modular Titan8 PWR-S5 for those wanting to save some weight, next to our 14v modular Titan8 RSV-S6. For us, it was easy to show the difference between our modular 12v and 14v Titan8’s, and being able to show the difference between our Power-Series and Reserve-Series.
Included in our main display was our 16-volt options- Our S1600, D1600 and Titan8 RSV-S7-1600. Before Titan8’s inception, our S1600 was the option for light weight 16-volt performance, with our D1600 being the king of 16-volt batteries. With that being said, our Titan8 RSV-S7-1600 was the real star of the show (pictured in the middle). For the past couple of years, our RSV-S7-1600 has been picked up and used by some of the fastest drag racers with one goal in mind- to save weight and go faster. With almost identical performance to our D1600 at a fraction of the weight, RSV-S7-1600 surprised many this year given the performance, warranty length, and real-world results.
Included in our main display was our 16-volt options- Our S1600, D1600 and Titan8 RSV-S7-1600. Before Titan8’s inception, our S1600 was the option for light weight 16-volt performance, with our D1600 being the king of 16-volt batteries. With that being said, our Titan8 RSV-S7-1600 was the real star of the show (pictured in the middle). For the past couple of years, our RSV-S7-1600 has been picked up and used by some of the fastest drag racers with one goal in mind- to save weight and go faster. With almost identical performance to our D1600 at a fraction of the weight, RSV-S7-1600 surprised many this year given the performance, warranty length, and real-world results.
Also on display was our tried and true chargers: Our 1004 16-volt charger and our 1005 12/14/16-volt charger. Our 1005 is much more popular, as it can charge any 12-volt, 14-volt, and 16-volt AGM or Titan8 battery.
Last but never least, had our D925 and S1200 AGM batteries on display, as they are extremely popular sizes in race applications.
Overall, PRI 2024 was a huge success for XS Power Batteries, as we continue to push the boundaries of battery technology. We’ll see you all at PRI 2025!
LOS ANGELES, CA (12.19.24) – Massive Audio is proud to announce the launch of its latest products line, the Hippo Series High-Performance Amplifiers, engineered to perfectly complement its acclaimed Hippo Series Subwoofers. These amplifiers set a new benchmark in audio performance by delivering outstanding power, stability, and sound quality tailored to the needs of discerning car audio enthusiasts.
Designed and engineered by Massive Audio’s owner, Mr. Madani, who brings over 25 years of expertise in the audio industry, the Hippo Series Amplifiers are built to excel in demanding conditions. Featuring exceptional stability under low-impedance speaker loads, these amplifiers ensure reliable power output while maintaining pristine sound quality.
John Velez, Massive Audio Sales Manager, shows the new H5000 High-Performance Amplifier spotlighting Massive Audio’s latest innovation in power and sound quality.
Key Features of the Hippo Series Amplifiers:
Unparalleled Stability: Delivers flawless performance even under low-impedance speaker loads.
Audiophile-Grade Sound: Produces precise, distortion-free audio for an unmatched listening experience.
Exceptional Durability: Constructed with premium components for long-lasting, dependable performance.
Optimized Compatibility: Specially designed to enhance the performance of Hippo Series Subwoofers, offering a seamless audio solution.
“The Hippo Series Amplifiers exemplify our dedication to providing state-of-the-art audio solutions,” said John Velez, Sales Manager at Massive Audio. “With their exceptional stability, durability, and sound quality, these amplifiers pair perfectly with our Hippo Series Subwoofers, creating a listening experience that goes above and beyond expectations.”
The Hippo Series High-Performance Amplifiers are now available through Massive Audio’s network of authorized dealers and distributors worldwide, as well as on the company’s website. For more information, visit www.massiveaudio.com, or contact John Velez directly at jvelez@massiveaudio.com or by phone at +1 (626) 523-8954.
PHOENIX, AZ (12.18.24) – MTX, a MiTek Electronics and Communications company, is proud to announce the pre-order launch of the next generation of our iconic Thunder amplifiers. Perfectly designed for audiophiles and bass enthusiasts, this innovative lineup delivers unparalleled power, outstanding clarity, and reliability you can depend on, all in a stunning new chassis.
The Thunder series includes seven models featuring mono-block, four-channel, five-channel, and six-channel configurations and a retail price range of $349.95 – $699.95
Advanced features include:
CTA2006D Certified
Class D topology
1Ω stability (Mono-blocks and 5ch sub)
Variable Subsonic & Bass Boost (Mono-blocks and 5ch sub)
24db Linkwitz Variable Crossovers
Concealed Top-mount Controls
Auto Turn-on via DC Offset
Included External Bass Control Remote (Mono-blocks and 5ch)
Power and Protection LED Status Indicator
Thermal, Short, and Over/Under Voltage Protection
High-Quality Tiffany-Style RCA Input
10V High-Level Audio Input Compatibility
Clip Detection Light for Tuning Optimization
Surface Mount Component Technology
Direct Insert Power and Speaker Terminals
Each Thunder amplifier, similar to the new Terminator amplifiers, has a unique “birth certificate” that showcases power ratings that often exceed the listed specifications by as much as 25%. This unwavering attention to detail ensures that consumers receive reliable, high-performance equipment that is designed to exceed expectations.
“We are thrilled to reintroduce these iconic amplifiers, showcasing a bold new design and remarkable performance,” said Jason Fickas, Vice President of MTX. “Each detail has been thoughtfully crafted to deliver unparalleled sound performance across various system designs. Just look at a few birth certificates and see for yourself, these amps deliver an uncompromising amount of headroom.”
Please visit MTX.com for more information or to find a dealer.
PALM BEACH, FL (12.18.24) – Our goal is to empower you with the tools needed to effectively promote ZZ2’s innovative products across your platforms. By providing you with high-quality videos, PDFs, photos, logos, brand colors, copy, and starter posts, we aim to enhance brand visibility and drive customer engagement for both ZZ2 and your business.
This collaboration will not only strengthen our brand presence but also help you attract more customers by showcasing the latest in automotive technology through your channels. Together, we can create a unified and impactful brand experience that resonates with your audience and drives mutual success.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.18.24) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) today expressed its appreciation of the Supreme Court of the United States for granting a writ of certiorari for a critical question in the case of Diamond Alternative Energy LLC v. EPA, which SEMA requested earlier this year via an amicus brief. In granting the writ, the court agreed to decide the important question whether some business interests and trade organizations, including members of the automotive aftermarket, have standing to make a legal claim that California’s Clean Air Act waiver allows the state to set rules that reduce demand for their products.
The court agreed to hear an appeal of a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit holding that the plaintiffs did not have a legal right to challenge the waiver.
Specifically, the case stems from a D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals panel’s prior dismissal of a challenge to electric vehicle (EV) mandates on grounds that the plaintiffs lacked standing. To sue in federal courts, there needs to be a concrete injury because of a defendant’s actions. If the Supreme Court rules that the plaintiffs have standing, the D.C. Circuit would have to address the merits (i.e., whether the Environmental Protection Agency can let California regulate automotive carbon dioxide emissions). This is a fortuitous question, given President Joe Biden’s anticipated extension of California’s waiver through 2035.
The court declined to hear a challenge to the legality of the waiver itself.
SEMA’s amicus brief, filed in August, argued that California’s non-technology-neutral regulation that limits sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will have a devastating impact on the automotive aftermarket industry, effectively killing, rather than fostering innovation that can help produce cleaner, safer automobiles.
“SEMA is pleased that the nation’s highest court acknowledges the significant public interest in the question raised in Diamond Alternative Energy LLC v. EPA: that California is wrong to pursue internal combustion engine bans, and that lower courts who have affirmed the state’s ability to do so in fact ruled in error,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA looks forward to the Supreme Court’s full review of this matter and is confident that justice will prevail on behalf of American innovation and ingenuity.”
SEMA, as an organization, champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity and will continue its efforts to preserve Americans’ rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry’s ability to design, manufacture, and bring to market products that help solve the carbon emissions challenge.
FOLSOM, PA (12.17.24) – The Third Annual Sound of Tri-State event to support the Sassy Massey Toy Drive in Folsom PA featured Santa and more in the store on Saturday December 14th. The turnout was even larger than 2023.
Santa welcomed these young ladies out front of the store.
The showroom was packed with customers who had made donations and were checking out specials.
Mike Fusto, Store Manager, related, “We stepped up our game again this year and it turned out to be a much bigger turnout than last year. Days ago we positioned a 15’x10’ container with large Toy Drop Off Bin signage to attract people wanting to support the Christmas giving effort. There were 20 local businesses highlighted on the signage that participated in the Toy Drive and all directed friends and social media followers to drop off toys in the bin. A friend has a storage company and he will make deliverers of the Drop Off Bin filled with toys to the Sassy Massey collection location when each bin is full. The Christmas Air Dancer on top of the building drew even more attention. There will definitely be more trips to drop off toys for 17 hospitals this year than last.”
Santa met with these youngsters to make sure everything was on their Christmas list.
Santa and the Grinch invited more people to drop off toys.
Continuing, Fusto offered, “Saturday, December 14th, was the day we promoted the toy drive heavy here at the store. The showroom was decorated with ribbons and Christmas ornaments. Special Holiday price tags too. We offered a 20% discount to all who brought and donated toys for the Sassy Massey Toy Drive. The Saturday event was family friendly with Holiday music. In addition there were police and fire company vehicles showcased on site plus motorcycle and car demos happened in the parking lot.”
Soon this load will go to the Sassy Massey drop off location.
Santa and the Grinch invited more people to drop off toys in the truck.
“The activity in the showroom was definitely very busy and the hot seller for the day were remote starter gift certificates. That way the right model could be selected by the customer for their vehicle and it spread out the installation time and days in the bays. Several customers commented they also donated toys last year and thanked Sound of Tri-State for getting behind this very thoughtful community activity. We took notes to make the 2025 Sassy Massey Toy Drive even larger’ Fusto concluded.
Another image from Mike Fusto showing action in the showroom.
Certainly very positive to see the community building activities from Sound of Tri-State Team in Folsom, PA.
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