SEATTLE, WA (07.10.26) – Firstech, the maker of Compustar and DroneMobile, today announced the release of the Drone XC2 (model: XC2-LTE), the next generation of its LTE-connected dash camera ecosystem. Engineered to bridge the gap between traditional vehicle security and cloud-connected video monitoring, the Drone XC2 solidifies its position as the industry’s only dash camera that integrates seamlessly with aftermarket remote start and alarm systems.
As auto insurance premiums have risen more than 40% in the last five years, the financial stakes of unproven traffic disputes and parking lot incidents have never been higher. The Drone XC2 directly addresses this issue by delivering indisputable video evidence, transforming a driver’s smartphone into a real-time security monitor. Total Vehicle Surveillance
While maintaining the same low-profile form factor of its predecessor, the Drone XC2 introduces four sweeping upgrades designed to improve driver security and reduce friction points experienced with other solutions.
3-Channel Video Support: The XC2 expands capabilities to support up to three simultaneous video inputs, allowing drivers to achieve coverage across front, rear, and interior angles.
Driving Events with Auto-Cloud Upload: Incidents triggered by impact, sudden braking, or harsh acceleration are instantly uploaded to the secure DroneMobile cloud, ensuring critical evidence is preserved and accessible from anywhere.
20x More Cloud Video: XC2 delivers approximately 200 3-channel cloud preview videos per GB of cellular data—about 20x more than previous generations. The result is faster incident review, lower cellular usage, and more events available before data limits become a concern.
Plug-and-Play OBD-II Harness Included: To streamlining installation for standalone dash cam buyers and 12-volt installers, the XC2 now includes a plug-and-play OBD-II harness (previously a $99.99 standalone accessory).
“Drone XC2 reflects our commitment to making connected vehicle security more practical and accessible,” shares Firstech’s managing director, Jason Kaminski. “By combining 3-channel video, automatic cloud uploads, and dramatically more cloud previews with lower cellular data usage, XC2 delivers a smarter dash camera experience for both drivers and professional installers.”
Streamlined All-in-One Subscriptions In tandem with the Drone XC2 launch, Firstech is debuting a simplified “Dash Cam” subscription tier starting at $15.99/month, with deeper discounts when purchasing multi-year plans. This all-inclusive plan bundles LTE live streaming with DroneMobile’s core suite of app features, including remote start, GPS tracking, and alarm notifications. Existing Drone XC customers will also be able to take advantage of this simplified subscription tier.
Availability and Dealer Promotion The Drone XC2 is shipping now to Firstech distributors and authorized retailers across North America.
For more information about Drone XC2 and other DroneMobile connected car solutions, please visit www.dronemobile.com/products.
MEMPHIS, TN (07.09.26) – Memphis Audio is expanding its award-winning marine lineup with the introduction of the new Marine A.T.A.C.™ Speaker Series. After turning heads with its revolutionary patented A.T.A.C.™ tower speakers, Memphis is bringing the same patented technology to the inside of the boat with an all-new lineup of premium in-boat speakers designed to deliver exceptional output, remarkable clarity, premium styling, and the durability serious boat owners demand.
Available in 6.5″, 8″, and 6×9″ models, the new Marine A.T.A.C. ™ speakers feature Memphis Audio’s patented Advanced Tweeter Array Construction (A.T.A.C.™) technology.
Unlike traditional coaxial marine speakers that mount a single tweeter through the center of the cone, Memphis A.T.A.C.™ suspends an array of tweeters above the midbass driver on a rigid bridge. By moving the tweeters off the cone, A.T.A.C.™ preserves the full surface area of the midbass driver for stronger midbass performance while allowing the woofer to remain completely sealed. The result is improved durability by eliminating a common path for water intrusion, while multiple tweeters work together to produce exceptional output, wider sound dispersion, and outstanding clarity that stays clean even at high listening levels.
The MM603 features a two-tweeter line array, while the MM804 and MM694 utilize a three-tweeter array for even greater output and sound dispersion. Premium Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) tweeter diaphragms ensure crisp, detailed highs while maintaining smooth, accurate response across the entire listening area.
“Once you hear what the A.T.A.C.™ array does and understand the benefits of this technology over a traditional coaxial speaker, it’s hard to go back,” said Nick LoMonaco, President of Memphis Audio. “The combination of output, clarity, midbass performance, and durability is something people immediately notice. We knew people loved A.T.A.C.™ in our tower speakers, and we’re excited to finally bring that same experience inside the boat.”
Every speaker includes both gloss white and gloss black grilles in the box, allowing installers to perfectly match virtually any boat interior without purchasing additional accessories. The premium open-grille design showcases the A.T.A.C.™ tweeter array, while the aluminum mesh grille and subtle metallic accents create an upscale appearance that looks right at home in today’s premium boats. Integrated RGB LED illumination highlights both the woofer and tweeter array, creating a rich, refined lighting effect that complements the installation without overpowering it.
Built for years of life on the water, every Marine A.T.A.C.™ speaker features marine- grade ASA construction, UV-tested materials rated for over 1,500 hours of exposure, fully sealed construction, and IP67 water and dust protection for reliable performance in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
“We didn’t want to build just another marine speaker,” LoMonaco added. “We wanted to create something that would genuinely raise the bar for in-boat audio. These speakers sound incredible, they look amazing once they’re installed, and they deliver the kind of performance that gets people excited the first time they hear them. We think they’re going to become the new standard for premium marine audio.”
The new Memphis Marine A.T.A.C.™ Speaker Series is shipping soon through authorized Memphis Audio dealers.
BOCA RATON, FL (07.09.26) – ITP-BIS — for MINI Cooper Brings wireless CarPlay and Android Auto to the factory screen of MINI Cooper (2-door and 4-door), Countryman and Clubman, model years 2018/19–2021 with the BIS system. No Touchscreen: Unlike previous kits, this solution relies entirely on the factory control knob for navigation.
👉 Advanced installation (internal kit, no external module, No Touch) — professional installation recommended.
ITZ-NTG6 — for Mercedes-Benz
Brings wireless CarPlay and Android Auto to Mercedes-Benz models with the NTG6 MBUX system (A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, CLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, EQA/EQB/EQC and more), 2018–present.
👉 Plug and Play — quick, straightforward installation.
Both models include:
Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
Front and rear camera inputs, with dynamic parking guidelines
Your favorite apps on the dashboard: Waze, Spotify, WhatsApp, Google Maps and more
3-year warranty
Want to check compatibility for your specific model, or find an authorized installer?
ELKHART, IN (07.09.26) – (BUSINESS WIRE) – Patrick Industries (NASDAQ: PATK) (“Patrick”) and LCI Industries (NYSE: LCII) (“LCI” or “Lippert”) announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock merger, forming a premier component solutions provider for the outdoor enthusiast, housing and transportation markets. Under the agreement, which the Boards of Directors of both companies unanimously approved, LCI shareholders will receive 1.2440 shares of Patrick common stock for each share of LCI common stock they own.
Following completion of the transaction, Patrick shareholders will own approximately 52% of the combined company and LCI shareholders will own approximately 48%.
This strategic combination brings together two companies with complementary product portfolios and longstanding partnerships with customers and stakeholders across North America and Europe. Together, Patrick and Lippert will create a more dynamic, innovative, solutions-oriented platform serving a diverse range of OEMs and consumers in the outdoor enthusiast, housing, transportation and other markets, through a broader portfolio of brands, more efficient operations, enhanced R&D investment and commercialization capabilities. By bringing together Patrick’s integrated design-to-delivery capabilities and Lippert’s expertise in highly engineered, structural OEM and aftermarket components, the combined organization will deliver differentiated, cost-effective competitive solutions aimed at improving affordability, strengthening value chain alignment and delivering outstanding customer service while supporting long-term organic and strategic growth and disciplined capital allocation.
As a result, the combined company will be well positioned to enhance value for the shareholders of each company through bolstered financial performance, reduced costs, and a continued focus on execution, all while providing outdoor enthusiasts with impressive new solutions and an enhanced array of competitively priced products.
“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the evolution of our two companies as we continue on our journey to positively impact and deliver value for our customers, our team members, shareholders, and the communities we serve,” said Andy Nemeth, CEO of Patrick. “We have long respected the Lippert team and their impressive, innovative capabilities across the solutions they deliver and are thrilled to reach this milestone. We have two highly successful, well-established organizations with long track records of strategic and organic growth, innovation, and customer service, supported by incredible talent across each enterprise, deep expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we will create a premier partnership-oriented platform for the global outdoor enthusiast ecosystem, housing and transportation markets that is more resilient, and better positioned to serve all of our customers – from OEMs to the end consumer. We remain dedicated to our culture and values focused on humility and trust, the reinvestment in our vision, business, and strategy with the goal of delivering an even brighter future for the stakeholders we serve.”
Johnny Sirpilla, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Lippert, added, “This combination represents a defining moment for Lippert. Our shareholders will benefit from ownership in a more diversified company with the financial and operational strength to grow revenues and deliver outstanding value to shareholders and other stakeholders. As two complementary businesses with strong legacies deeply rooted in Elkhart and our other local communities, we understand the potential and positive impact this combination can deliver. Together, we can offer a broader, more innovative, competitive, and affordable portfolio of products and product solutions, as we work with our partners and customers in key segments to drive greater value for end consumers. We will also continue to invest in our growth and combined capabilities, creating new opportunities for team members and charting an exciting new future for the combined company.”
Clear Strategic Rationale
Creates a Premier Component Solutions Provider for the Outdoor Recreation, Housing and Transportation Markets: The combination creates a leading provider across recreational vehicle, marine, powersports, truck and adventure / off-road, transportation, automotive and housing markets. With enhanced resources, the combined company’s solutions-based offerings will enable OEMs to better address affordability for end consumers. Improved diversification across end markets and expanded capabilities position the combined company for greater stability and durable growth across industry cycles. Highly Complementary Portfolios Strengthen Ability to Serve Customers and Enhance the End User Experience: Patrick and Lippert offer strategically adjacent product capabilities, creating a diversified portfolio across interior, exterior, structural and mechanical systems. The combined company will remain a trusted partner to OEM and aftermarket customers, with expanded R&D, broader capabilities, and accelerated speed-to-market, enhancing innovation and the overall end-user experience. Expands Aftermarket Channel Access and Distribution Networks: Lippert’s established brands, distribution infrastructure and channel access meaningfully advance Patrick’s strategic priority to expand its aftermarket presence. This expansion further enhances revenue growth, helping offset OEM production cyclicality, and improves the margin profile of the combined company. Strengthens Long-Term Commitment to Local Communities: Patrick and Lippert share a commitment to supporting the communities where their team members live, work, and enjoy the outdoors. Together, they will further develop their strong community partnerships to inspire and support the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Compelling Financial Benefits for Patrick and Lippert Shareholders
Delivers a Resilient Financial Profile with Strong Cash Flow Generation: On a pro forma basis, the combined company’s trailing twelve months results as of March 2026 would be approximately $8.1 billion of revenue, adjusted EBITDA of $1.0 billion inclusive of synergies, and free cash flow of $508 million inclusive of synergies.
Drives Meaningful, Achievable Cost Synergies: The transaction is expected to deliver over $150 million of run-rate cost synergies achieved within three years of closing. These synergies are identified and actionable, arising primarily from procurement, SG&A efficiencies, engineering best practices, and improved supply chain management.
Provides Balance Sheet Flexibility: The combined company will have a strong balance sheet with expected pro forma net leverage of 2.1x and the liquidity and flexibility to support continued investment in growth and capital returns. The combined company’s capital allocation strategy will focus on reinvesting operating cash flows in the business within a disciplined net leverage target of 2.25x to 2.5x, with priorities including strategic growth and automation-oriented capital expenditures while returning cash to shareholders through share repurchases and a balanced dividend policy. Leadership, Governance and Headquarters
Upon closing, Patrick Industries CEO Andy Nemeth will serve as CEO of the combined company.
The Board of Directors of the combined company will consist of 12 directors, with six designated by Patrick and six designated by Lippert. Patrick Director Todd Cleveland will serve as Chair of the Board and Lippert Interim CEO and Director Johnny Sirpilla will serve as Vice Chair of the Board.
The combined company will employ a collaborative approach to identify executive management and other leaders for key business units.
Following the closing of the transaction, the combined company will be headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana.
Timing and Approvals
The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to approval by shareholders of both companies, the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.
Advisors
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as lead financial advisor and Baird is serving as co-lead financial advisor to Patrick Industries and McDermott Will & Schulte LLP is serving as legal advisor. Perella Weinberg Partners LP is serving as financial advisor to LCI Industries and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal advisor. FGS Global is serving as strategic communications advisor to LCI Industries.
Conference Call, Webcast and Presentation
Patrick and Lippert will host a conference call and webcast today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss the transaction. Participation in the question-and-answer session of the call will be limited to institutional investors and analysts. The dial-in number for the live conference call is (877) 407-9036. The webcast and accompanying slides can be accessed on both companies’ investor relations websites. A replay of the conference call will be available on both companies’ investor relations websites following the call. A dedicated website with more information about the transaction is available at PatrickandLippertTogether.com.
MEMPHIS, TN (07.08.26) – Memphis dropped the bass this Fourth of July when it unveiled the limited-edition United States 250th Anniversary Collection—a patriotic lineup of commemorative Power Reference amplifiers and subwoofers built for enthusiasts who believe freedom should always come with a volume knob.
America’s 250th birthday deserves more than fireworks.
It deserves bass.
The United States 250th Anniversary Collection features the 76PRX500.4V2 four-channel amplifier, 76PRX1000.1V2 monoblock amplifier, and 76PRXL12FTV 12-inch Power Reference subwoofer with Memphis Audio’s patented FLEX™ selectable 1Ω, 2Ω, or 4Ω impedance technology. Every product in the collection features an aggressive stealth black-on-black American flag design, delivering a clean, custom appearance while proudly honoring America’s 250th anniversary.
The anniversary amplifiers come alive with red, white, and blue LED accent lighting that illuminates both the acrylic logo panel and the ground beneath the amplifier, while the subwoofer features a custom American flag “M” center logo and an integrated RGB LED illuminated cone accent ring that can be set to patriotic red, white, and blue or virtually any color to match your build. The anniversary subwoofer doesn’t just look different, it hits harder too. Memphis engineers increased its power handling to 500 watts RMS, a 25% increase over the previous Power Reference model, giving enthusiasts even more bass to back up its bold new look. Together, the collection delivers a one-of-a-kind custom appearance that stands out whether you’re showing off your build at a car show or simply turning up the volume.
For more than 60 years, Memphis Audio has proudly designed and developed products in the United States by passionate car audio enthusiasts. The United States 250th Anniversary Collection is our tribute to the country that gave us the freedom to express ourselves, build incredible systems, and enjoy the music we love.
“We’re Americans. We love loud music. We love bass. We love building cool stuff,” said Nick LoMonaco, President of Memphis Audio. “When we started this project, we knew one thing—we weren’t making another cheesy patriotic product. We wanted something aggressive, custom, and unmistakably Memphis. The result is one of the coolest limited-edition collections we’ve ever released.”
The response has been overwhelming. Dealers and enthusiasts have been grabbing these limited-edition products since they were announced, and demand continues to build every day. With only a limited production run planned, once they’re gone, they’re gone forever. If you’ve been looking for a unique way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary while owning a true piece of Memphis Audio history, this is it.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.08.26) – Designed to deliver concert-thrilling LOUD audio in every song — Ford Bronco® Tuned Audio Kits are innovated to make powerful sound that keeps up with the Bronco lifestyle and brings an immersive soundscape wherever the drive takes you.
MB Quart Ford Bronco® Tuned Audio Packages pack high-efficiency speakers, powerful subwoofers, and compact Class-D amplifiersinto a complete vehicle-specific audio upgrade. Engineered to take on the elements and deliver exceptional clarity, output, and bass performance, these systems are built for every adventure.
Upgrade your 2025–2026 Ford Bronco® and experience sound that is BUILT LOUD through Music. Defined.
MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA (07.07.26) — IASCA enjoyed a successful and productive week at the ASOPARTES ExpoPartes and ExtremeFest, held July 2–4 at Plaza Mayor. The event brought together automotive enthusiasts, manufacturers, and competitors from across the region, with multiple exhibition halls showcasing the latest products and innovations. The dedicated car audio hall featured numerous high-level sound quality competition vehicles, highlighting the continued growth of the hobby throughout Latin America.
Throughout the event, IASCA conducted several educational seminars, including an introductory presentation on car audio for students interested in learning about the industry and competitive sound quality. On Saturday, competitors participated in a Sound Quality Clinic where they received detailed evaluations and feedback from multiple experienced judges, including IASCA President Travis Chin. The clinic provided valuable insight to help competitors refine their systems and prepare for future events.
The event also marked an important milestone for IASCA Latinamérica. A new series of regional competitions will begin later this year, culminating in a championship finale scheduled for January 2027. The partnership between ASOPARTES and IASCA Latinamérica is expected to further expand organized sound quality competition throughout the region.
“It was an honor to be a guest at the ExpoPartes event and to help build the partnership between ASOPARTES and IASCA Latinamérica,” said . “It was a great time reuniting with past competitors I had met over a decade ago. Thanks to the ASOPARTES staff and IASCA Latinamérica staff for the hospitality.”
Pictured: Eduardo Tascon, Calros Andrés Pineda, Travis Chin, Luis Orlando Tores Clavijo, Manuel Fandiño, Carlos Romero, Javier Pardo.
IASCA extends its appreciation to ASOPARTES, IASCA Latinamérica, event organizers, volunteers, competitors, and attendees for making the event a tremendous success. The enthusiasm displayed throughout the weekend demonstrated the bright future of organized car audio competition in Colombia and across Latin America.
DANIA BEACH, FL (07.07.26) — HKI USA today recognized the dedication and teamwork of its representatives following the recent departure of Elias Ventura, who previously managed the Mid-Atlantic territory.
In response to the transition, HKI USA team members quickly stepped up to ensure customers continued receiving the service, communication, and support they have come to expect. By working together across roles and responsibilities, the team maintained coverage throughout the territory while keeping customer needs at the center of every decision.
“We are extremely proud of how our team responded during this transition,” said Jacob Brown, Director of Operations at HKI USA. “Their professionalism, flexibility, and commitment to our dealers reflect the strength of our organization and the values we work hard to uphold every day.”
The company emphasized that the territory remains fully supported and that customers can continue to rely on HKI USA for responsive service, product knowledge, and dependable partnership. The transition also highlighted the depth of experience within the organization and the team’s ability to adapt quickly when circumstances change.
HKI USA remains focused on serving its customers with consistency and care while continuing to support the representatives who have taken initiative during this transition. The 12Volt Specialists have stepped up to cover New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania, JB Associates is handling Maryland and Delaware, and Ambassador Marketing is supporting Virginia, ensuring dealers throughout the Mid-Atlantic territory continue to receive responsive service and dependable partnership.
East PA and New England – 12 Volt Specialist – (978) 804-3966 Maryland, West PA and MidWest – JB & Associates – (304) 633-4880 Virginia, TN, NC, AC and SouthEast – Ambassador – (561) 385-1974
For more information regarding HKI USA, and the brands they represent, please visit www.HKI-USA.com.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.07.26) – The HFX subwoofer lineup just got LOUDER. NOW AVAILABLE in 8 and 10-inch sizes (along with the 12-inch) — the HFX series brings HARD-HITTING BASS to any build — BIG or small.
Built to hit. Tuned to stay clean. HFX subwoofers are engineered with heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frames, pressure-treated, durable foam surrounds, and dual voice coils that keep bass tight, controlled, and distortion-free — even when you push it.
Get ready for deeper lows, harder punch, and sound that holds together at every volume now in more subwoofer sizes!
DUQUOIN IL (07.06.26) The Progressive American Flat Track Series was set for Saturday night July 4th at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds with the Memphis Shades DuQuoin Mile. KICKER was set up outside the main entrance to the DuQuoin State Fair Arena under large tents and loaded KICKER Subaru.. Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, and the crew had all set. Unfortunately weather rolled in and action on the track was postponed until Sunday morning.
I’ll set up out front of the DiQuoin State Fair Arena.
On July 4th the American flag was flying high outside on the track
“American Flat Tack and bike enthusiasts all recognize the KICKER brand as KICKER has participated with American Flat Track events across the US for several years. At these events many attendees mention they enjoy KICKER products in their vehicles along with bikes, UTVs and boats.” Morrell related.
On Saturday afternoon, there was a one lap, one family, one unforgettable reminder for Dan Bromley‘s tragic death at the LIMA Half Mile one week ago.
Late Saturday afternoon, the rain began.
Morrell’s travel schedule required for departure Saturday night. Sunday’s race results will be updated @12voltnews.com.
The next event on the 2026 American Flat Tack Series is March 5th & 6th at the Royal Enfield Short Track Daytona Beach FL.
12VoltNews.com 