2026 SEMA Show to Debut Content Creator Corral Celebrating the Voices That Shape Automotive Culture

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.27.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show will debut the Content Creator Corral, a new feature that recognizes the growing influence of automotive creators by bringing some of the industry’s most engaging influencers and their custom vehicles in one dedicated space at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Nov. 3-6.

Located in the Main Hall Annex, the Content Creator Corral expands on Road to SEMA, an initiative that follows creators as they travel long distances to bring their projects to the annual SEMA Show. The feature builds on the journeys and brings those stories to life, allowing attendees to see the vehicles up close and connect with the influencers behind them.

As creators play an increasingly important role in shaping vehicle customization trends and purchasing decisions, the showcase provides exhibitors, manufacturers and attendees with a fresh opportunity to engage directly with influential voices shaping automotive culture.

“Automotive creators are helping introduce new audiences to vehicle customization and the specialty-equipment industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “Road to SEMA gave us a chance to share their journeys with a wider audience, and the Content Creator Corral builds on that by bringing the creators and their vehicles together at the Show. It’s a chance for attendees to meet the people behind the builds and see firsthand what makes the automotive aftermarket community so special.”

The Content Creator Corral will feature custom vehicles from creators across the United States and abroad, representing a wide range of makes, models and builds. The lineup includes vehicles that have traveled thousands of miles and crossed international borders to reach Las Vegas.

Examples include a Ford Mustang rebuilt in Lithuania after being purchased in Florida; a BMW Z3 M Coupé transformed into a Max Power-era Club Sport-inspired showpiece; a Porsche Boxster converted into the Vale Automotive GT1 in Northern Ireland; and a Ford Escort RS Cosworth traveling 3,500 miles across the United States. The lineup also includes a KVA Ford GT40, Porsche 944 RS4 and genuine “2 Fast 2 Furious” Yenko Camaro restored by Hard Up Garage.

Beyond the vehicles themselves, the Content Creator Corral highlights the people, creativity and dedication that drive automotive culture. Attendees can meet the creators behind the builds, hear their stories, and connect with others who share their passion.

CONTENT CREATOR CORRAL PARTICIPANT QUOTES

Ciro Ciampi – @petrolheadonism
“Getting to share an iconic build with the SEMA community in person is a pretty special experience. We collectively put in so much time, work and passion into our project with all our partners, so seeing people connect with it and hearing their reactions will make all the effort worthwhile.”

Jordan Graff – @shipbox_garage
“My SEMA journey began with me as an outsider to the organization – literally, because I didn’t have the industry connections yet to be an official part of the SEMA Show – so it’s an honor to be part of history as one of the content creators being featured at the Content Creator Corral.”

Marissa Halee – @marissahalee
“My Mustang has been a huge part of my life for the past 11 years and ever since I got the car, I’ve dreamed of one day having it in the SEMA Show. It’s surreal to finally say that this year, my dream is becoming a reality alongside other incredible content creators!”

Tom Sylvester – @thedirtdrive
“As a lifelong enthusiast, I’ve dreamed about having a car I’ve worked on displayed at the SEMA Show. This opportunity to represent our shop, Dirt Nerds Motors, and the off-road community is an honor.”

Kaikea Wilinski – @ranchero_racing_co._
“Having the opportunity to showcase my car at the SEMA Show has a lot of significance to me, because back in the early years of the show, my grandfather, Hank the Crank, was one of the first vendors. I’m deeply appreciative for the opportunity to continue his legacy.”

The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas, as the centerpiece of a “SEMA Week” experience that culminates with public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest. To learn more or register, visit www.semashow.com.

The 2026 SEMA Show opens on Election Day, Nov. 3. SEMA’s Drive the Vote campaign encourages attendees to make a plan to vote before traveling to Las Vegas. Visit www.sema.org/vote for more information.

VAIS Technology Launches Push-to-Start System for Golf Carts—Kits Now Shipping

ENGLEWOOD, CO (10.27.26) – VAIS Technology is excited to announce that its highly anticipated Push-to-Start System for Golf Carts is officially releasing today. Production kits have begun shipping, bringing modern automotive convenience, premium security, and rugged reliability to golf cart owners nationwide.

The system is available in two distinct versions—one tailored for gas golf carts and one for electric golf carts—each featuring an MSRP of $599.99.

Engineered to withstand the elements while providing effortless operation, the VAIS Push-to-Start system brings OEM-grade luxury to both recreational and commercial golf carts.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • Waterproof Components: Designed for the outdoors, the system includes a waterproof ECU enclosure, key fobs, LF antenna, and push-to-start button (limitations apply).
  • Customizable Key Fobs: Packaged with two key fobs featuring three customizable buttons that can be configured to activate any three auxiliary outputs on the golf cart (such as lights, audio, or accessories).
  • Simple, Streamlined Installation: Engineered for a simple, 4-wire installation, the system requires only 12V power, Ground, and key cylinder connections. The main components are designed to mount discreetly and securely behind body panels.
  • Advanced Automotive Security: Protects your investment utilizing highly encrypted communication protocols to completely block relay and remote replay theft attacks.
  • Fail-Safe Functionality: Built with reliability in mind, the system ensures dependable push-to-start operation even if the key fob battery completely drains.

“Our goal was to bridge the gap between premium automotive technology and the golf cart market,” said Joe O’Byrne, Director of Technical Operations & Business Development. “With units officially shipping today, owners can finally replace their basic physical keys with the same secure, encrypted push-to-start convenience they expect from their everyday modern vehicles.”

The VAIS Push-to-Start System for Golf Carts is available for purchase now. For more information or to place an order, please visit www.vaistech.com.

Florida Marketing Group Returns

ST AUGUSTINE, FL (10.27.26) – Long-time industry veteran Dennis Hopper is reopening his Florida-based rep group under the original company, Florida Marketing Group.

Dennis has over 30 years of experience in the mobile electronics industry. From an expediter in the early years to distributor wholesale, factory manufacturing and retail experience spotlight his experience.

Dennis Hopper

“I’ve seen this industry from different levels and believe I can be a great business partners for dealers in Florida. I will be heading to the SEMA Show to meet with friends and companies that are exhibiting plus also will look at other opportunities that are not necessarily considered within the 12volt industry. I’m very excited about this new chapter and look forward to being on the road in Florida working with 12volt retailers to drive retail business” Dennis stated.

Contact Dennis by email at audioman11@gmail.com or phone 303-328-5216.

KICKER Was Livin’Loud At The EnduroCross In Everett WA

EVERETT, WA (10.26.26) – The EnduroCross brought the action to the Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett WA on Saturday, October 24th. Over 50 riders were on site for afternoon trial runs to qualify for the 16 places for the evening EnduroCross Race.

The EnduroCross is one of the wildest sports on 2 wheels, combining the challenging obstacles of an Enduro with the tight confines in a family friendly event in the stadium setting. Riders race over rock beds, huge logs, tractor tires, and other extreme obstacles making it the most unprecedented motorsport event on 2 wheels.

KICKER was set up in the lobby with this booth. Lorin Morrell, Jonah from Car Toys Everett WA and Mike Hall-Crossover Marketing (L/R) are set in the booth.
The track is being prepared for the EnduroCross.

KICKER was on site as an event sponsor with Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, setting up the KICKER booth and product display in the lobby showcasing KICKER products for auto and motorsports. The action in the arena was intense on Saturday with the excited crowd. Morrell was joined in the booth by Mike Hall from Crossover Marketing and Jonah from Car Toys Oregon’s Everett WA location.

“It was terrific to have Mike and Jonah in the booth to connect with members of the large crowd that stopped by the booth in the lobby. Jonah, assistant manager at the Everett location, was very engaged and handed out a ton of business cards plus invited attendees to drop by the store. Mike is on the road with Crossover in the territory and knows the KICKER products from top to bottom” Morrell related.

Riders navigating the track on Saturday night.
Riders navigating the track on Saturday night.

The preparation to set the track for EnduroCross events is nothing sort of crazy. Bulldozers and cranes on site place rocks and huge logs on the track along with tractor tires for the riders to navigate in the tight turns and launching over ramps. The action on the track was absolutely amazing and riders were careful not to crash into fallen riders.

“Overall the Everett WA EnduroCross was terrific. The crowd topped 3,500 and energy was everywhere as many were looking for upgrades for their rides. They saw KICKER has the products for their rides” Morrell concluded.

The EnduroCross 2026 series continues with events in Salt Lake City, UT Idaho Falls, ID.

For more see kicker.com.

Window Tint School Marks 11 Years In Florida And Grows In Arizona

JACKSONVILLE, FL (10.26.26) – Window Tint School marked its 11th year of training students in Florida with the continuing growth of the school in Arizona. Jon Dewar related “We’ve also expanded our reach to Arizona, where the classes have been incredibly well received. We now offer training one week each month in both locations.”

Graduates from the most recent class are pictured with their certificates.

To date Window Tint School has trained more than 3000 students. The students come from across the United States and around the world, including Haiti, the Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Dubai, Guam, Puerto Rico and Canada.

Continuing Dewar related “Our focus is practical, hands-on instruction that prepares students to work confidently with window film. Students practice on real vehicles and glass, learn automotive as well as commercial and residential applications, Students receive the tools they can keep using after class. We offer 3-Day and 5-Day programs, with the 5-Day course giving students more time to build their skills and learn both basic and advanced training certificates.”

Jon Dewar and Darren Fettik (R) are ready and excited to kick off Year 12.

“It’s especially rewarding to hear how students put their training to work after graduation. Some are entering the trade for the first time while others are adding tinting to an existing business or strengthening skills they’ve already already been developing. We’ve seen graduates gain confidence, pursue new opportunities, expand their services and build careers in an industry with strong demand for skilled window tinters.”

“Graduates also have access to our private alumni group, where they can stay connected with fellow tinters and instructors to continue learning after class.”

“As we marked 11 years in Florida and continue building our presence in Arizona, we’re proud of the students and community that have grown around Window Tint School. Darren Fettik and I are also grateful to the more than 3000 people who have trusted us with their training” Dewar concluded.

For more see www.tint.school

KICKER Sales Representatives Earn Awards During RepFest at Headquarters

STILLWATER, OK (10.26.26) – Thirty-six domestic Sales Representatives serving 13 firms earned company awards during KICKER’s annual RepFest last week. This one was the first rep meeting held at KICKER world headquarters in Stillwater, Oklahoma since 2014. KICKER RepFest is held prior to the SEMA Show each year as an exchange of information and feedback for the upcoming sales year.

Four men posing together indoors, holding an award plaque for 'Rep Firm of the Year' from Kicker, with a modern interior background.
Pictured are Crossover Marketing Group’s (L to R) Rob Sutton, Sam Sutton, and Mike Hall, along with KICKER West Regional Manager Tracy Focht. Not pictured is co-principal Paul Pilat.

The 2026 KICKER Rep Firm-of-the-Year is Crossover Marketing Group (Battle Ground, Wash.), representing the brand in the U.S. Northwest. Crossover is a four-member company consisting of reps Rob Sutton and Paul Pilat (co-principals), Mike Hall, and Sam Sutton.

KICKER’s Rep-of-the-Year for 2026 is Richie Holtzman of Tech Marketing (Raleigh, N.C.), representing KICKER in the Southeast.

A man and a woman posing together inside a modern building, holding an award certificate. The man is wearing a green polo shirt and black shorts, while the woman is wearing a maroon jacket and blue jeans.
KICKER Southeast Regional Manager Lori Boyer with Tech Marketing’s Richie Holtzman (right), the brand’s Rep-of-the-Year.

Both winners were honored among many deserving individuals per usual, as many of KICKER’s rep firms and sales reps have been working with the brand for numerous years.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile- and home-audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com.

Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, X.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or YouTube/@kicker-audio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Firstech to Reveal New Flagship Dash Camera at SEMA: Momento M8 Ultra (MD-8500)

SEATTLE, WA (10.23.26) – Firstech, an industry-leader in vehicle security and convenience solutions, officially announced pre-orders for the company’s newest flagship dash camera: the Momento M8 Ultra (MD-8500). Combining true 4K video resolution, advanced HDR processing, and breakthrough front-and-rear radar sensors, the Momento M8 Ultra sets a new standard in video security.

With rising repair costs and surging insurance premiums, drivers face increasing risks from fraud, accident disputes, and hit-and-runs. The Momento M8 Ultra is engineered to provide uncompromising protection in all of these situations – pairing breakthrough video clarity with ultra-low battery draw to eliminate the problems long associated with traditional dash cameras.

Key Highlights of the Momento M8 Ultra

  • 4K Video with HDR, Powered by Sony STARVIS 2: As the recognized gold standard for automotive surveillance, the M8 Ultra’s Sony STARVIS 2 image sensor delivers native 4K recording with class-leading low light sensitivity. Enhanced with High Dynamic Range (HDR) recording, the M8 Ultra dynamically balances exposure in harsh sunlight, glare, and nighttime environments to capture critical details on video.
  • Battery-Efficient “Eco Mode” with Dual Front & Rear Radar: Traditional dash cameras with “parking modes” rely on image processing for motion detection, which quickly depletes a vehicle’s battery. M8 Ultra introduces front and rear radar motion sensing, otherwise known as “Eco Mode”, slashing parking mode battery consumption by more than 90% compared to conventional parking modes. Firstech offers other Momento dash cameras that support “Eco Mode” on the front camera only.
  • 128GB High-Capacity Storage and Seamless App Connectivity: The Momento M8 Ultra comes standard with a high-performance 128GB MicroSD card and adapter. Users can instantly download or share incident videos stored on the memory card via the free Momento Dash Cam Viewer app, available for iOS and Android devices.

The Momento M8 Ultra will carry a suggested retail price (MSRP) of $499.99, which includes front and rear cameras, hardwire installation kit, 2-year warranty, and 128GB MicroSD card. Authorized Momento dealers can place pre-orders immediately through myFirstech.com and participating regional distributors.

For more information about Momento dash cameras, please visit www.momentocam.com or contact a Firstech sales representative.

Modus Grows Product Lines & Accelerates Growth in the 12 Volt Industry

OXNARD, CA (10.23.26) – Modus, a leader in lifestyle and solution-based mobile and marine audio infotainment technology, is proud to announce it is shipping its latest dedicated and high-performance mobile and marine audio solutions. At the same time, it is widening its strategic OEM partnerships, nationwide dealer, distributor and rep network reach.

“As we progress through Q4 and our latest products are now shipping, we are preparing to launch our next round of mobile and marine audio solutions, with an emphasis on collaborating closely with our channel partners,” said Matthew Delgado, Director of Sales. “The recent IBEX 2026 Expo was a success as we featured our full marine lineup for the first time. We are also pleased to announce that our new AIM-7 and AIM-10 source units are now available, while we work on the completion of our new Portale amplifiers.”

In addition, Modus will soon be selecting a limited number of dealers to test its new Apex premier series in the next couple months, reinforcing the trust and value Modus has for its dealer input. Dealers should inquire with their reps to be a part of this opportunity.

Modus continues to outline and announce the next phase of its growth with a planned early-2027 Apex family launch, including the Class A/B amplifier, speakers, and subwoofer, and growing mobile and marine dealer bases.

“These initiatives reflect Modus’ ambition to earn a lasting leadership position through differentiated products, continued development, and long-term industry relationships,” Delgado continued. “This synergistic approach ensures that every partner, from regional representatives to local retail dealers, is equipped with the tools and inventory needed to succeed in a competitive market.”

By aligning closely with its distribution network, Modus guarantees that consumers receive unparalleled products, service, and expertly tuned audio solutions.

“With an ever-changing 12 volt audio landscape, the continued growth and development of the Modus brand outlines how we are doubling-down on our commitment to be the premier premium mobile and marine audio solution,” added Jason Digos, Senior Product Testing and Validation Manager. “What dealers see from Modus today is a fierce foundation and hardcore determination. Modus may be a new brand, but the DNA in our R&D, engineering, sales, training, marketing teams, and channel partners go back decades.”

Technology remains central to the brand’s commitment to the 12-volt industry. As Modus rolls out its next-generation product lineup, the company looks forward to expanding mutual growth opportunities with its invaluable partners, driving the future of mobile audio forward together.

“Modus continues to push boundaries, ensuring that drivers no longer have to compromise on audio fidelity while on the move,” concluded Joz Wang, VP of Marketing.

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.

MTX Returns to SEMA for 2026

PHOENIX, AZ (10.23.26) – MTX, a MiTek Electronics and Communications company, is excited to announce its return to the 2026 SEMA Show, where the brand will showcase an extensive range of audio products, with a special focus on its latest signal processing technology. Attendees can visit MTX at Booth #10753, which will also feature two custom vehicles equipped with MTX audio systems.

MTX will showcase its signal processor lineup, including the TL-8.8DSP 8-Channel Digital Signal Processor, TL-4.5L Line Output Converter, and TL-DBE Digital Bass Enhancer. Of particular focus is the TL-8.8DSP, which gives installers advanced control over system tuning and sound customization through its intuitive software interface. Together, the lineup provides solutions for factory audio integration, signal optimization, and advanced sound tuning. Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience the TL-8.8DSP in action in a custom vehicle on display.

The booth will feature a 1992 Chevrolet Silverado Single Cab OBS, owned by Humberto Marin, with audio work by Steve Chapman of FABWORX. Joining it will be a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Wide Body, owned by Ben Black, with audio work by Andrew Evans of FabricatedLV. Both vehicles represent the combined efforts of their owners, audio builders, and the other professionals who contributed to each project.

MTX will also display its latest product releases and a wide selection of audio solutions for mobile, powersports, and marine applications, including amplifiers, subwoofers, speakers, and ThunderLink wiring and accessories.

The 2026 SEMA Show takes place November 3–6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Visit MTX at Booth #10753 to explore the product lineup, see the custom builds, and connect with the MTX team.

For more information about MTX Audio or to find a dealer, visit www.mtx.com.

The 12voltBeat Celebrates 16 Years

THE 12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (10.22.26) – The 12voltBeat Newsletter, delivering fresh industry news, is mailed twice weekly to subscribers across the 12volt industry. The 12volt industry is based in music and good music definitely has a beat. Thus the 12voltBeat newsletter is a natural to deliver fresh positive news to thousands across the 12volt industry. There is no charge to subscribe.

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