MINI USA Makes SiriusXM with 360L Standard Equipment

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NEW YORK, NY (05.16.24) – MINI USA and SiriusXM announced that SiriusXM with 360L will be standard across the entire lineup of all-new MINI models sold in the United States. While SiriusXM first expanded across MINI’s full lineup in 2022, SiriusXM with 360L’s expanded content and personalization offering will now be available in all MINI vehicles, including the new MINI Countryman S ALL4, MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 and MINI Cooper S 2-door arriving at dealers this month. All other MINI models are expected to include SiriusXM with 360L in the coming months.

Amplified through MINI’s industry-first 9.4” round OLED Samsung screen and next-gen Android-enabled operating system, SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, which provides drivers and their passengers with more content, improved discovery, and a more personalized listening experience.

SiriusXM with 360L in MINI adds more than 100 additional music channels curated to match every mood, an expansive library of on demand content and a live sports category that makes it easier to find broadcasts of games and sporting events. Additionally, personalized “For You” and spotlight recommendations, as well as the ability to access related content, allow listeners to discover more of the programming they love. Drivers can also create and enjoy custom Artist Stations that can be originated from artists or bands and are continually personalized.

“MINI is the quintessential premium small car, offering the latest technologies and innovations in our new MINI family of vehicles arriving at showrooms now,” said Patrick McKenna, Department Head, Marketing, Product and Strategy at MINI USA. “That is why we’re pleased to offer the best in-car entertainment available with SiriusXM 360L as standard equipment across our entire model line.”

“MINI offers an incredibly entertaining and “fun-to-drive” experience for both driver and passengers and we are very excited to enhance that experience, delivering our most advanced and driver-centric audio entertainment platform across their entire model lineup on their impressive, all-new OLED display,” said Gail Berger, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Partnerships, SiriusXM. “MINI drivers can now enjoy even more of the SiriusXM content they love and a more personalized listening offering.”

MINI customers purchasing or leasing a SiriusXM-equipped vehicle in the United States receive a 12-month trial subscription to SiriusXM that delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of varied content, plus access to SiriusXM outside the vehicle on the SiriusXM app and on connected devices and speakers in the home. The new SiriusXM app includes access to exclusive video content and podcasts and provides a seamless listening experience across streaming devices that reflects listener preferences and interests, ensuring subscribers never miss a moment wherever they are and whenever they want to listen.

SiriusXM is home to hundreds of expertly curated, ad-free music channels across all genres, decades, and moods as well as the must-hear moments in sports, news, entertainment, comedy, and more. From one-of-a-kind channels by some of the world’s top musicians to first-listens and exclusive performances from emerging artists and bands, SiriusXM presents the perfect soundtrack for any moment. SiriusXM brings fans closer to their favorite sport by offering the most extensive lineup of live pro and college events, plus programming that delivers reactions and analysis from experts and insiders. Subscribers also stay informed and entertained with the latest in news and politics, entertainment, comedy, and beyond with celebrity interviews, iconic hosts, trusted opinions, non-stop laughs, and so much more, available only on SiriusXM.

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit www.SiriusXM.com.

The SSR Dallas Dealer Show Motorcycle Training Event Hosted by Jimmy Bradfield/Momentum Marketing

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DALLAS, TX (05.15.24) – “Here at SSR in Dallas, we take a lot of pride in the products we offer that are designed and built specifically for the Motorcycle customer. We continue to see huge growth in this category of our business. Despite this growth, we have quite a few 12 Volt retailers that have not embraced the motorcycle category and customer. After a lengthy conversation with Jimmy Bradfield, our Momentum Marketing sales rep, we put a plan together for him to do a training focusing on the Introduction to Motorcycle Business at our recent show” stated Tracy Farr, V.P of Sales and Operations for SSR Distributors, Dallas.

Screenshot
Jimmy Bradfield makes a point during the motorcycle training presentation.

“Since the training was an ‘Intro to the Motorcycle category’, I wanted to keep it simple with 6 key training points” stated Bradfield.

  1. Understanding the opportunity within the Motorcycle category.
  2. Getting to know the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle platforms.
  3. Knowing which product to sell and install, to meet the customer’s needs.
  4. What special tools are needed to work on these motorcycles.
  5. How to start marketing your business to the motorcycle owner.
  6. SSR Distributor’s product list that will help capture the motorcycle customer.
Paul Galanos, Director of Marketing, during an interview in his office.

Paul Galanos, Director of Marketing for SSR Distributors, said “I knew the Motorcycle products were important to us at SSR, but after sitting through Jimmy’s training, I walked away with a much better understanding of the machines and what’s needed to work on them.. as well as what’s needed to reach that motorcycle customer. Throughout his training, Jimmy kept pressing us on how big the opportunity is within the motorcycle category, and he showed us the data to completely back it up. Jimmy tried his best to offer a training that was not biased towards one brand or another and he really helped me realize that we have the right mix of products to help our dealers capitalize on this business.”

A group of dealers in one section of the meeting room during Bradfield’s training session.

Jay Ford, with Kustom Wings in Carrollton TX, offered “I’ve built my business catering specifically to the motorcycle owner, so I’m very familiar with the bikes. When Jimmy talked about the opportunity, it really opened my eyes to what the future holds in the motorcycle business. I’m even more excited and confident about our future, at Kustom Wings!”

Tracy Farr holding a SSR University Graduation Certificate. The Motorcycle Training session was an extension of SSR‘s commitment to help 12volt retailers drive business across their marketplace. There is a monthly SSR University session in the Houston and Dallas locations one evening each month.

“Our annual dealer events, in Houston and Dallas, continue to get bigger every year. It’s a great opportunity for us to bring both sides of our family together. Our family of Dealers get invaluable time with our family of Vendors and Sales Reps. It’s a great opportunity to learn about new products and how the products can help them be more successful. We are so thankful for the support of our Dealers, Vendors and Sales Reps” Farr concluded.

Visit ssrdistributors.com for more.

Tint World Opens First Oklahoma Location in Tulsa

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TULSA, OK (05.15.24) — Tint World Automotive Styling Centers introduces its premium automotive styling and accessories services to Oklahoma with the opening of its first location in the state.

Owned and operated by Charles White, Tint World Tulsa offers drivers comprehensive automotive services and products, including window tint, paint protection film, ceramic coatings, audio and video, professional detailing and safety and security services.

10322 E 71st St, Tulsa, OK 74133

“We’re proud to offer Tint World’s industry-leading solutions to Oklahoma,” White said. “The company’s proven, innovative franchise systems are empowering us to deliver high quality and value to customers, and we’re already seeing an overwhelming response from drivers throughout the area.”

Tint World owner Charles White (R) points out window tint specs to a customer.

Tint World Tulsa, located at 10322 E. 71st St., Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133, serves Tulsa and the Broken Arrow, Jenks, Owasso, Bixby, Sand Springs, Sapulpa and Claremore areas. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Tulsa, call (918) 221-6788 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/ok/tulsa-146/.

John Lamb (R)-Tint World technician- points out features, advantages and benefits of a head unit to a customer.

“With his passion for the automotive industry and commitment to our franchise systems, Charles has shown he’s an outstanding ambassador for the Tint World brand,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “The Tulsa location is an essential part of the fast-growing Tint World family as we continue to enhance our position as the leading one-stop service provider for vehicle owners and auto enthusiasts.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Colossus PRO Amplifiers Combine PRO Loud and PRO Sound

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LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.15.24) – REINVENTED POWER that takes your listening to higher levels of sound. This is Colossus PRO. Hifonics Colossus PRO amplifiers bring PRO LOUD and PRO SOUND into your Hifonics car audio system with deeper levels of detail that raise the bar in POWERFUL PERFORMANCE. Get ready to take your sound to new expectations of LOUD with PRO POWER!

The entire line of Colossus PRO models features monoblock and 4-channel amplifiers. Ranging from the HAC-5000.1D Colossus PRO amplifier that makes 5000 watts of incredibly LOUD audio to the HAC-1500.1D Colossus PRO amplifier making 1500 watts of undistorted clean sound in mighty size -every Colossus PRO amplifier will instantly deliver the power that your Hifonics audio system needs to reach a LOUDER soundstage.

Multi-layered printed circuit boards (PCB) with surface mount components require fewer parts and result in a cleaner design while clean stylized badging features the Hifonics logo illuminated with blue LEDs and the Colossus logo badge is fly cut CNC machined aluminum giving off a sleek and bold finish.

HAC-5000.1D Colossus PRO monoblock amplifier Input and Output end panels (shown above)
With an Ultra-High efficient design power supply making every Colossus PRO amplifier the most efficient amplifier in Hifonics history – POWER FROM THE GODS transcends previous Hifonics amplifier lines with innovated full range, Class-D technology performance. Hear minimal interface with other vehicle electronic systems with Ultra-Low EMI design and accept a wider range of input signals with high-end preamplifier circuits.

Inside the world of Hifonics Colossus PRO (shown above)
Superior performance meets PRO levels of playback while staying protected under nearly every circumstance with triple protection circuits and a PRO thermal management system. Additionally, a delayed turn-on function ensures compatibility with a wide range of source units to eliminate any unwanted turn-on/off noises. Adjust the bass level relative to the setting on the amplifier end panel with an included bass remote.

HAC-5000.1D Colossus PRO monoblock amplifier Bass Remote (shown above)
Offering incredible POWER FROM THE GODS and loudness throughout any listening session – Hifonics Colossus PRO amplifiers signify ULTIMATE POWER and PLAYBACK by bringing out LOUDER LEVELS of detail and incredible sound within audio.

Hear what audio can sound like when given the PRO POWER of Colossus!

Learn complete Hifonics Colossus PRO amplifier line details HERE from the Hifonics website.

General Motors Names Alps Alpine North America, Inc. a 2023 Supplier of the Year

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (05.14.24) – General Motors recognized Alps Alpine North America, Inc. as a 2023 Supplier of the Year. GM celebrated honorees at its 32nd annual Supplier of the Year event in Aventura, Florida earlier in April.

GM’s Supplier of the Year award recognizes global suppliers that distinguish themselves by exceeding GM’s requirements, in turn providing customers with innovative technologies and among the highest quality in the automotive industry. This is the 12th consecutive (22nd overall) time Alps Alpine has received the award.

Pictured (Left to Right): Cameron Hosner, Mark Walters (Director – Electrical Systems, Autonomous Driving, and Active Safety), Kristin Toth (Executive Director – Electrical Systems, Software, and Connectivity), Mike Kenhard.

“We are most honored to receive this prestigious recognition from General Motors,” said Cameron Hosner, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Alps Alpine North America. “This award is a testament to the hard work by all our teams to design, build, and deliver solutions with excellence.”

“We’re honored to partner with these top suppliers who have made notable contributions to our transformation. Together, we’re pushing boundaries, pioneering new technologies and redefining what’s possible,” said Jeff Morrison, Vice President, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “Their innovation and support are critical to helping us deliver the world-class vehicles our customers have to come expect.”

Each year, GM’s Supplier of the Year recipients are selected by a global, cross-functional GM team for their performance, innovation, cultural alignment with GM’s values, and commitment to achieving GM’s ambitious goals.

Visit alpsalpine.com for more.

The 2024 Rock The House 9-City Tour Kicked Off in Grand Rapids, MI

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GRAND RAPIDS & DETROIT, MI (05.14.24) – The Progressive Group powers the annual Rock The House Tour and the 2024 Tour got off to a fast start the week of May 6th with events in Grand Rapids on Tuesday May 7th and Detroit on Thursday May 9th. At both events there were strong specials, networking with staff, entertainment and delicious BBQ from the grille.

Nick Klaassen with a big thumbs up along with Dave Goodwin from Sound Waves in Macomb MI.

Jason Dubie, Director of Business-Midwest, related “We had good turnouts at both events even with some rain. At each event dealers from a couple hours away hit the road to attend. In Detroit dealers started to arrive early and we had key vendors in the house including Kenwood, Rockford Fosgate, VOXX, Directed, Dynamat, SiriusXM plus Stinger and AudioControl. Nearly 50 dealers in Detroit met with staff and took advantage of super deals, refreshments, DJ Vernel-Platinum Edge Music and Joe Pichey from Boompa’s BBQ slicing up delicious BBQ until we closed about 9PM.”

The 2024 Rock The House Tour continues this week with events in Denver and Salt Lake City on Tuesday May 14th and Kansas City on Thursday May 16th.

Shopping carts filled with orders as dealers check out the door in Detroit after picking up some great deals.
DJ Vernel, Platinum Edge  Music, rocked the house in Detroit.
Joe Pichey from Boompa’s BBQ served up delicious sliced brisket from the grill.

Additional event stops on the 2024 Tour include Ft Lauderdale, Atlanta, Phoenix and Tampa.

For more see teamprogressive.com

Ryan Stutzman Joins SEMA as Chief Financial Officer

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.14.24) – Ryan Stutzman is joining the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) as chief financial officer, effective May 22. Stutzman will be based at SEMA’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, Calif.

Stutzman replaces current Vice President and Chief Financial Officer George Afremow, who will retire in June after 12 years with the Association.

Stutzman is a strategic and results-driven executive with over a decade of experience leading financial teams and enhancing company performance in both public and private sectors. His expertise spans a wide range of financial operations, including mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems integration, which he has managed across various industries.

Ryan Stutzman is joining the Specialty Equipment Market Association as chief financial officer. He will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day finance, investment relations, and accounting activities for the Association, including Performance Racing Industry.

“In our search for a new CFO, we sought a leader not only with robust financial acumen but one with strong integrity, who is committed to protecting and furthering the cause of the automotive aftermarket industry,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “We are delighted to have found a great fit in Ryan.”

In his new role, Stutzman will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day finance, investment relations, and accounting activities for the Association, including Performance Racing Industry (PRI). Stutzman will also play a pivotal role in the selection and implementation of company-wide systems, which will enhance SEMA’s business relationship with its members.

Stutzman joins SEMA from Cherokee Chemical Co., Inc., where he significantly enhanced the company’s financial performance and market position. He led the successful reorganization of the finance department and managed over a dozen strategic mergers and acquisitions, driving substantial growth and profitability. His initiatives in optimizing financial frameworks contributed decisively to Cherokee’s industry leadership.

“I’m excited to join the Association at such an important time for the automotive aftermarket,” said Stutzman. “SEMA members are on the forefront of change and driving innovation, and I’m looking forward to supporting them as we shape the future of the industry.”

A native of Charlotte, N.C., Stutzman received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Cedarville University and an MBA from Azusa Pacific University. Outside of work, Stutzman is passionately engaged with the great outdoors, frequently found road cycling, hiking, or snowboarding. A dedicated coffee connoisseur, he has spent the past decade mastering the art of roasting and blending his own coffee, a testament to his meticulous attention to detail. Stutzman and his wife, Bethany, have two children.

Visit SEMA.org for more.

The Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo Set To Pack The DoubleTree Suites In Seatte

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SEATTLE, WA (5.13.24) – The 10th annual Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo is set to bring members of the Mobile Electronics industry together this week Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday – May 13th through the 15th. Registration info is on their website https://www.pnwcee.com. This industry-only event is open to all industry-related dealers, reps, distributors and their employees.

“We are excited to once again create a positive atmosphere where dealers, their sales people and techs can learn about new products and technologies by interacting with factory personnel on the event floor, attending various trainings and experiencing demo vehicles outside” PNWCEE Founders Dan McMillian-In Phase Marketing and Mark Giovannetti-Pacific Rim Marketing related.

Pacific Northwest representative firms Crossover Marketing, Falcon Marketing and Oliver Marketing join with In Phase Marketing and Pacific Rim Marketing to host the 2024 Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo.

There will be a Welcome Reception on Monday evening for all who are attending the Expo on Monday – May 13, at 5 pm – followed by a new addition this new… NIGHT JAMS. NIGHT JAMS are evening training/informational sessions with presenters from Manufacturers discussing and demonstrating their latest products, techniques and information to help attendees stay current in the ever changing 12volt industry.

Monday NIGHT JAMS Motorcycle System Design & Installation class by Sam Walker of Walker Audio Designs and participating manufacturers rolls at 6:30 pm. Diamond Audio, Kenwood, JBL/Infinity, PowerBass and Metra will be participating and will showcase some of their latest motorcycle solutions during this Night Jams session.

Rounding out the evening NIGHT JAMS will be an OEM Integration Round Table class at 7:30 pm by participating manufacturers. Industry veterans from Alpine, Elettromedia, iDatalink, Focal, Gladen, Mosconi, Metra, PowerBass and more will showcase new OEM Solutions.

On Tuesday evening the NIGHT JAMS will kick off with a “Art of the Demo” Simplifying the Process of selling DSP by presenter Rob Haynes from JL Audio. The second NIGHT JAMS on Tuesday night will be OEM Audio Integration and Getting Good Results by Educar’s Ken Ward.

Ryan Gunter, The Executive Director at Mobile Electronics Specialists of America (MESA) has confirmed that he will be attending the Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo in Seattle, WA this week, May 13-15th. We are excited to have Ryan attend this year, as the MESA Dealer Group includes some of the finest Mobile Electronic stores in the country today according to the PNWCEE committee that puts on the Expo.

The PNWCEE Committee thanks all of the participating Representatives and Manufacturers for their efforts in putting together the 2024 Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo. Coming together as a team to generate an atmosphere of excitement, learning and networking in a united effort for Car Audio dealers, their salespeople and techs.

For more see https://www.pnwcee.com

Tint World Expands with First Ohio location

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COLUMBUS, OH (05.13.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues its rapid growth with the opening of its first location in Ohio.

Tint World Columbus, owned and operated by Josh Vanlandingham, offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality automotive styling and aftermarket part services, including window tinting, paint protection films, ceramic coatings, and professional detailing.

Josh Vanlandingham is pictured behind the counter as the store is set to open. *Note the signature Tint World displays and signage.

“We’re proud to introduce the world-class Tint World brand to drivers and auto enthusiasts in Columbus and throughout the central Ohio region,” Vanlandingham said. “Thanks to the quality and value of their services and their wide range of expertise, Tint World is recognized as the go-to provider of window tinting, paint protection films, automotive audio and electronics, vinyl wraps and graphics, custom wheels and tires, and all other in-demand automotive services, as well as marine, commercial and residential solutions. We’re committed to ensuring Columbus drivers have everything they need for an enhanced driving and lifestyle experience.”

The install bay in the new Columbus location is set for jobs to begin to roll in for upgrades.

Tint World Columbus is located at 2002 Crown Plaza Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about services provided by Tint World Columbus, call (614) 695-3299 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/oh/columbus-177/.

“Josh is a great addition to the Tint World family, and we’re thrilled to be working with him to connect our proven brand with drivers in Columbus and throughout Ohio,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “This is another important step in our growth and an opportunity to educate consumers about the convenience, value and industry-leading quality Tint World offers.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

DD Audio Proudly Releases 10” And 12” VO-W700 Woofers

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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (05.13.24) – DD AUDIO is proud to introduce the VO-W700s, drivers made to satisfy an under-appreciated bandwidth between the bottom end of a midrange and the heavy lows of the subwoofer, striking a balance of clarity and power that puts them in a class of their own. With a rich pedigree tracing back to the 1990’s era of Digital Designs 9000 Series subwoofers, and a sleek undemanding profile, these woofers have been made for applications where depth is limited, but expectations are not.

The high powered dual magnet motor is focused through a precisely CnC cut magnet gap, utilizing distortion reducing shorting rings. The voice coil is a high temperature 4 layer copper wire, wound on a dual slit aluminum former for lower inductance and maximum heat transfer. The pressed cone, with weather resistant finish, offers increased rigidity and midrange ability. The dual spiders and high-density, closed cell foam rubber surround govern intense restoring force to deliver fast, hard transients while controlling low frequency flutter under high power.

These features make the VO-W700 woofers the ideal choice when the system design requires a higher crossover pointing to high output midranges, where normal subwoofer rolloff leaves a frequency gap. The bandwidth optimized build coupled with low inductance measures extend the usable frequency response octaves beyond that of traditional subwoofers of a similar design, like the old 9000 Series.

Best of all, the combination of high motor force, tight control, and compact cast frame, allow the VO-W700s to be used in small vented box designs, taking advantage of vehicle acoustic loading, allowing you to enjoy the low end punch with a higher frequency attack, from a myriad of locations in the most cramped of cabin spaces.

Available in the 10 inch VO-W710 and 12 inch VO-W712.