AUBURN HILLS, MI (08.09.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. is winner of this year’s iF DESIGN AWARD, the world-renowned design prize. The winning product, the Alpine OPTIM8™ 8-Channel Sound Processor and Amplifier with Automatic Sound Tuning, won in the discipline design, in the product category. Each year, the world’s oldest independent design organization, Hannover-based iF International Forum Design GmbH, organizes the iF DESIGN AWARD.
“Alpine is honored to receive the 2024 iF DESIGN AWARD for a product that is truly the first of its kind in our industry,” said Gregg Thomas Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “We set out to simplify the complex process of sound system tuning using proprietary technology that brings the tuning time down to a mere five minutes.”
OPTIM8™ won over the 132-member jury, made up of independent experts from all over the world, with its automatic sound system tuning capabilities. The competition was intense: almost 11,000 entries were submitted from 72 countries in hopes of receiving the seal of quality.
This is the second time Alpine has received an iF DESIGN AWARD.
More information about OPTIM8™ can be found in the “Winners & iF Ranking” section on ifdesign.com.
The 12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (08.09.24) – With the beginning of second half of 2024 the 12volt industry activities shifted into high gear. Proactive 12volt industry members are utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool to showcase their positive activities at the 2024 Sturgis Bike Rally that’s happening August 2nd through the 11th.
The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase a company’s positive activities and products. Snap and Txt an image… PRESTO your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318-469-2526 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.
KICKER had a setup to show motorcycle products in the Progressive Demo Ride area with Lorin Morrell making it happen in Sturgis.
Chris Hulin and the Audio edge crew rolled 1600 miles from Nederland TX pulling a large trailer with supplies to do installs in the Kenwood booth in Sturgis.
Kenwood was set up with two large tents at Sturgis. Left below is the main area and then the Custom Sounds crew was doing sales and installations in another area.
Hector Mina with Momentum Marketing (L) was on site to support Kenwood. Marcus Vasconcellos, Kenwood Product Specialist, giving a big thumbs up after an installation checkout ride.
To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios posts articles on 12voltnews.com each business day and makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each day. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send their news to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318 469 2526. PRESTO, your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.
Cicada Audio is buzzing loud at Sturgis. Left-Dana White, UFC President, heard the buzzing and came in to learn more Marty Deane, Cicada Audio Director of Sales.
Rene Rodriguez and a team from Intense Audio 1 in Tulsa rolled up to Sturgis. Great shot that Rene sent with cool bikes downtown and Miguel Rodriguez stopped by the Kenwood booth in his Vanderhall trailered up from Tulsa.
Having a fun time in Sturgis!
On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are dedicated members of the 12volt industry. To see over 1,000 posts #12voltstp on Instagram.
Look forward to seeing your company’s brand and positive activities in the 12volt Central Studios.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.09.24) – Nominations are now open for SEMA’s Visionary 8 program, which recognizes the future leaders of the automotive aftermarket industry. Nominations can be submitted until August 30 at this link.
SEMA has recognized the rising stars of the industry since 2012 through its 35 Under 35 program. Visionary 8 will build upon that success by spotlighting eight recipients who are on track to become leaders in the industry. The recognition is one of the Association’s most coveted accolades, honoring the up-and-coming talent on track to drive innovation in the automotive aftermarket for future generations.
“Visionary 8 will maintain the 35 Under 35 legacy while enhancing the quality of representation that is given to our industry’s rising stars,” said Jose Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “The list is now more competitive than ever, and the selection process will be even more rigorous.”
Nominees must be SEMA members, should have active industry involvement, and demonstrate the talent, innovation, integrity, success, and leadership that is needed to become a future driver of the industry. The age criteria remains 35 and under.
Visionary 8 recipients will serve as subjects of in-depth feature articles in an upcoming issue of SEMA Magazine.
SEMA is accepting nominations for its inaugural Visionary 8 honorees through August 30.
To submit a nomination or for more information, view the nomination form.
TEMPE, AZ (08.08.24) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce legendary Dave Kindig will take the stage to unveil the secrets behind his 2024 Riddler-winning design “TwelveAir” on March 22 during MasterTech Expo 2025, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. This electrifying session is open to all MTE attendees and exhibitors.
“Get ready for an unforgettable experience at MasterTech Expo 2025 as attendees will witness a master at work as Dave walks you through his creative process, step-by-step,” explained Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “With live cameras capturing every detail and his sketches displayed on overhead screens, you’ll feel like you’re part of the action.”
Dave Kindig is the founder and designer of Kindig-It Design, a custom car fabrication shop in Salt Lake City, Utah. Kindig-It Design reimagines vehicles with full body transformative capability that starts with pencil and paper under Kindig’s hand. The shop is also the subject of the Motortrend TV show Bitchin’ Rides, which chronicles the design, build and delivery of some of the world’s most creative cars and trucks. With Charity Kindig, Shop Foreman Kevin Schiele and a hyper-creative team of automotive professionals, the Kindig-It Design brand enjoys worldwide popularity among automotive enthusiasts.
During MasterTech Expo, Kindig will take the audience through the intricacies of the design elements, providing thought processes, tips, and techniques that are typically valued as a designer’s trade secrets. In addition, Kindig will take the stage on the exhibit floor and talk the audience through a series of live designs, with cameras displaying his work on overhead screens. The session is scheduled separate from class and exhibit times and therefore open to all attendees and exhibitors.
“With MasterTech Expo, we are committed to embracing the entire automotive aftermarket community,” added Schmitt. “Our objective is to bring tremendous value to our attendees with brands, classes, tools and products from every segment of the industry. In talking with Dave, we were thrilled to find that he is aligned with our vision and is excited to join us at MasterTech Expo once again and share his knowledge with other professionals.”
For more information, or to register for MasterTech Expo, please visit www.mastertechexpo.com.
OCALA, FL (08.08.24) – It was a pleasant surprise for the employees of Big Jeff Audio! During the most recent staff meeting, Big Jeff made his first appearance in the office after being hospitalized for nearly six weeks due to a strange infection caused by a bacteria. To everyone’s surprise Jeff, along with his wife Alma, showed up. Although he’s not yet 100%, and can’t return full-time, Big Jeff is continuing to work remotely. To all Big Jeff looked much better and all had a great time during the wide ranging talk.
Part of the quarterly meeting is the potluck where all the employees either buy something or cook something special. No matter what it is they bring it for all to enjoy. Everyone at Big Jeff Audio loves the variety of food and the time to sit down with people from other departments. Big Jeff team members talk with people they see day in and day out but by the nature of this busy business all sometimes can even say much to each other besides a good morning or good night.
This is another of Big Jeff’s ideas. At every company meeting there is the spin the wheel moment. Managers will give employees who stand out, do something that goes the extra mile or simply takes an extra step to make jobs better a ticket. These red tickets go into a container and at every meeting Jeff pulls a few out and the employee then gets the chance to spin the wheel for a price, They prize can be Big Jeff Swag, a radar detector, free lunch, etc etc. In the image Big Jeff Audio Star Wholesale Sales Representative Julia Napiontek set to spin the wheel.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.08.24) – Chase down summer adventures with a full-blown concert setup in your Kawasaki RIDGE® side x side vehicle. Get ready to embrace a higher-quality showcase of OEM audio for Kawasaki RIDGE® side x side vehicles powered by Hifonics Audio Systems. OEM Kawasaki RIDGE® Hifonics Audio Systems is only exclusive for Kawasaki RIDGE® side x side vehicles.
The Kawasaki RIDGE® side x side is a BEAST of a machine that features a game-changing 999c Kawasaki-built in-line four-cylinder engine paired with automotive-inspired premium features inside and out. This ground-breaking side x side machine is designed to take off-roading to new comfort levels.
Hear clean audio and control your ride. The STAGE 1 Visor Audio System with Built-In Source Unit is purposely engineered and designed exclusively for the Kawasaki RIDGE. Features a high contrast LED source unit with full color that is waterproof and includes AM/FM, and Bluetooth, and features Apple Control with a built-in eight-band equalizer.
Additionally – four 6.5-inch coaxial speakers are innovated with composite construction midrange for deep and accurate midbass as an integrated Class-D full-range amplifier is designed to pair flawlessly with the visor audio system’s coaxial speakers for clean and high-quality performance and power.
The STAGE 1 Visor Audio System features as well the Class-D, full-range amplifier and four 6.5-inch coaxial speakers, but doesn’t include the high contrast LED source unit. 0.75-inch Titanium dome tweeters create crystal-clear high-frequencies in every beat while LIFE SHIELD IP/UV-Rated makes this audio system fully protected against the environments for every adventure.
Follow the link HERE and learn complete details. *REQUIRES 99994-1779 (7-inch LED waterproof source unit and dash kit)
The 7-inch Waterproof Touchscreen Source Unit & Dash Kit include the 7-inch waterproof touchscreen source unit integrated into the dash enclosure. Selectable audio sources include Wireless CarPlay®, Android Auto, Bluetooth, AM/FM, one USB-A input, one USB-C input, one 3.5mm Aux input, and a ready hands-free waterproof microphone. A full RGB light controller is included with two video camera inputs and enjoy integrated full audio adjustments including independent Sub Level Control and a 10-Band EQ.
Follow the link HERE and learn complete details. *REQUIRES 99994-1780 (Stage 1 Visor)
*WORKS WITH 99994-1778 (Rear Speaker & Subwoofer Upgrade System)
The STAGE 2 Rear Speakers and Subwoofer Audio System Upgrade includes a 10-inch application-specific subwoofer that features a single voice coil long-throw high output for immersive levels of bass and more steady bass performance. In addition – an integrated Class-D mono amplifier is included with two rear roof-mounted 6.5-inch coaxial speakers made with composite construction midrange for deep and accurate midbass layers of sound.
Follow the link HERE and learn complete details. *WORKS WITH 99994-1777 (Stage 1 Visor with GMR-LEDK)
*WORKS WITH 99994-1780 (Stage 1 Visor)
*WORKS WITH 99994-1899 (Factory installed 99994-1899 Stage 1 Visor)
Installation is easy and simple and makes chasing down unlimited outdoor adventures happen sooner with OEM Hifonics Audio Systems. Elevate every outdoor journey through POWER FROM THE GODS performance.
Learn more details HERE on the line of OEM Kawasaki RIDGE® Hifonics Audio Systems.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.07.24) – Attendees at the 2024 SEMA Show have the exclusive opportunity to become electric-vehicle (EV) and EV safety certified through the Show’s comprehensive education program focused on professional and business advancement. The 2024 SEMA Show takes place Nov. 5-8 in Las Vegas, Nev.
Presented by SEMA Education and Legacy EV, the “Electric Vehicles 101” and “High-Voltage Safety Certification Training” education sessions will help attendees boost their knowledge and understanding of EV powertrains and safety. Each of the sessions will be limited to 20 participants to ensure an intimate, hands-on setting where students will gain the skills needed to excel in the evolving and dynamic EV market.
The 2024 SEMA Show Education program will expand to offer attendees exclusive certification courses that will help them boost their knowledge and understanding of EV powertrains and safety.
“What makes these courses unique is the hands-on experience students gain by working with EV equipment and wiring right in the classroom during the SEMA Show,” said Mavrick Knoles, Co-founder and President of Legacy EV. “Participants will not only walk away with valuable experience but can also credit the cost of both of these sessions towards a comprehensive Legacy EV Certified Technician course post-SEMA Show.”
Registration is now open for:
Electric Vehicles 101, Presented by Legacy EV (Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) This course is divided into two sessions — “Understanding EV Anatomy and Electrical Theory” and “Applications with EV Specifications, EV Tooling, HV Safety” — and offers a brand-agnostic and hands-on training opportunity for automotive technicians to gain understanding of EV powertrains. During this class, students will work with real EV powertrains and tooling on Legacy EV training benches. Trainees who complete this course will receive an official EV 101 certification from Legacy EV. The cost for this session is $599.
High Voltage Safety Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV (Thursday, Nov. 7, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) New for 2024, this course is geared towards those who work with or sell high-voltage retail and products; service high-voltage components or vehicles; build, manufacture, or assemble high-voltage components or vehicles; and manage high-voltage vehicle technicians. Guests will learn about “Creating an Electrically Safe Work Condition” and “High-Voltage Batteries and Battery Management Systems.” Trainees who complete this course will receive a Legacy EV Level 1 High-Voltage Safety certification, a Legacy EV Level 2 High-Voltage Safety certification, and a digital badge and physical certificate. Two to four hours of online pre-course work is required before this eight-hour in-person session at the SEMA Show. The cost for this session is $1,399.
In 2023, Richard Forstner, Supervisor of Damage Appraisal at Element Fleet Management, participated in the EV 101 course at the SEMA Show.
“My employer manages every vehicle type, including upfitted trucks, which in some cases have aftermarket EV conversions, so taking this course helped strengthen my career as an EV subject matter expert,” said Forstner. “The instruction by Legacy EV was first-rate, and I liked the structure and pace of the course.” Forstner said the course aided him in problem solving some of the challenges that arise from outside vendors as well as analyzing crash damage.
Monica Baeza, Port Senior Equipment Mechanic at Port of Oakland, also took the EV 101 course, noting that the biggest value of the training was the hands-on component. “It has given me the confidence and knowledge to navigate the transition and management of a growing EV fleet. I am more able to engage in the conversations in a knowledgeable way and add value to work that we are doing.”
The Legacy EV sessions are part of a robust 2024 SEMA Show education program designed to help industry professionals enhance their leadership and business development, gain insight into emerging trends, and discover industry best practices from top experts in the aftermarket field.
The SEMA Show is one of the largest trade shows in the world, powered by a passionate and innovative community. The 2024 Show is receiving more industry support than it has seen in years, with 2,400 exhibitors projected to display their latest products and services to thousands of attendees and media.
“The SEMA Show is a global platform to showcase the latest trends, innovations, and future of the automotive aftermarket. Education is a cornerstone of the Show designed to help our members address their most significant challenges,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “The 2024 program has been created to showcase takeaways and information that attendees can immediately utilize to improve and strengthen their businesses.”
To register for “Electric Vehicle 101, Presented by Legacy EV,” click here.
To register for “High Voltage Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV,” click here.
To learn more about the 2024 SEMA Show and to register, visit www.semashow.com.
NASHVILLE, TN (08.07.24) – Hertz Marine has announced the availability of the HTX 8H S-FL, their IBEX award-winning tower speaker. These speakers feature Hertz’s new, cutting-edge common motor compression driver technology, resulting in 30 percent lower weight and less speaker depth within the enclosure. While maintaining a more compact speaker for easier installation and aesthetic appeal, this new design brings performance advantages, such as a better low-end extension on bass frequencies.
In addition, the speakers have been engineered to offer a more comprehensive “sweet spot” for listening while engaged in water sports. You no longer need to sit in the perfect spot on the boat to enjoy your music. With 120 degrees of coverage and a range of more than 100 feet, your music remains loud and fully balanced across the entire frequency spectrum.
“Our team engineered several new technologies to offer a premium audio experience made for luxury surfing, wake, and ski boats,” said Pietro Pantaleone, president of Elettromedia, the parent company of Hertz. “During partner tests, everyone immediately realized that our technology allows a more compact tower speaker to perform much better than the standard 10″ tower speakers boaters expect. Simply put, the HTX is louder, more precise, and projects wider and farther than anything else on the market.”
The result of these designs is clear, distortion-free audio that carries over long distances, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music with the highest clarity and fidelity.
Features of the HTX include:
Common Motor Driver Technology offers improved acoustical performances with a 30 percent reduction in size and weight.
Marine-grade durability features IP65 protection grade, ASTM-D4329 standards for UV resistance, and ASTM-B117 for salt fog operability.
Powerful sound levels with 400 W peak power and a stunning sensitivity of 98 dB SPL ensure the ultimate listening experience.
Crystal-Clear Audio is thanks to a FEM-optimized waveguide that offers a linear SPL response, ensuring full-range sound quality at 100 feet and beyond.
RGB-led lighting for a never-ending color wheel adds a new level of personalization and swagger to your setup.
Fine-tuned using a long-throw 51 mm (2″) voice coil woofer sealed box applications.
Availability
Hertz Marine’s HTX 8H S-FL (MSRP: $1000) is available for purchase online and through Hertz’s dealer network. For more information, visit hertz-audio.com.
TEMPE, AZ (08.07.24) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce legendary Dave Kindig will take the stage to unveil the secrets behind his 2024 Riddler-winning design “TwelveAir” on March 22 during MasterTech Expo 2025, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. This electrifying session is open to all MTE attendees and exhibitors.
“Get ready for an unforgettable experience at MasterTech Expo 2025 as attendees will witness a master at work as Dave walks you through his creative process, step-by-step,” explained Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “With live cameras capturing every detail and his sketches displayed on overhead screens, you’ll feel like you’re part of the action.”
Dave Kindig is the founder and designer of Kindig-It Design, a custom car fabrication shop in Salt Lake City, Utah. Kindig-It Design reimagines vehicles with full body transformative capability that starts with pencil and paper under Kindig’s hand. The shop is also the subject of the Motortrend TV show Bitchin’ Rides, which chronicles the design, build and delivery of some of the world’s most creative cars and trucks. With Charity Kindig, Shop Foreman Kevin Schiele and a hyper-creative team of automotive professionals, the Kindig-It Design brand enjoys worldwide popularity among automotive enthusiasts.
During MasterTech Expo, Kindig will take the audience through the intricacies of the design elements, providing thought processes, tips, and techniques that are typically valued as a designer’s trade secrets. In addition, Kindig will take the stage on the exhibit floor and talk the audience through a series of live designs, with cameras displaying his work on overhead screens. The session is scheduled separate from class and exhibit times and therefore open to all attendees and exhibitors.
“With MasterTech Expo, we are committed to embracing the entire automotive aftermarket community,” added Schmitt. “Our objective is to bring tremendous value to our attendees with brands, classes, tools and products from every segment of the industry. In talking with Dave, we were thrilled to find that he is aligned with our vision and is excited to join us at MasterTech Expo once again and share his knowledge with other professionals.”
For more information, or to register for MasterTech Expo, please visit www.mastertechexpo.com.
TORRANCE, CA (08.06.24) – TEZspex by RYDEEN, a leading provider of automotive upgrade solutions, has proudly unveiled its latest innovation – the LITE Fully Automatic Roof Sunshade for Tesla Model Y.
Materials: The Sunshade color matches the factory interior. Designed to look like an OEM feature for your Model Y. The Sun–Blocking Material of the Automatic Sunshadeis Crafted from high-quality 5-layer automotive-grade blackout composite fabric (PU+Shading film and a PU+Back fabric), which blocks and reflects heat, harmful UV/IR rays, sunlight while being less prone to wrinkling which creates a comfortable and private environment. The minimalist electric switch enhances usability with a single-hand, one-touch operation, prioritizing elegance and safety, elevating the overall aesthetics.
IR block: Keeping the interior cool ensures full shading and heat insulation. Even with the addition of Ceramic Protective Films to the glass top, the problem of extreme heat (infrared spectrum) persistently radiates from the roof glass. This is the top complaint of Tesla owners, who often find themselves uncomfortably hot. The TEZspex sunshade, however, not only shields from UV rays but also effectively blocks IR (infrared that transfers heat), providing a solution to this common complaint and showing that we understand your needs. Say goodbye to high temperatures and intense IR rays in hot summer days. The electric retractable roof sunshade smoothly slides open or closed with a premium double-rod curtain rack made of durable and rust-resistant materials, ensuring long-term reliability and smooth operation. The sunshade has no sagging or gap; the sun won’t leak through!
UV protection: A reinforced steel bezel provides better durability, ensuring a longer and safer life. This Sunshade boasts exceptional heat resistance, superior UV light-blocking capabilities (up to 99% of sunlight), efficient heat insulation, and remarkable durability against dirt and abrasion. A sunshade also protects the car’s seats, dashboard, and other interior components from sun damage and fading.
Ultra-Quiet Japanese Motor: Equipped with a whisper-quiet, high-quality Nedic motor designed for durability, rated for 50,000 cycles (equivalent to 27 years of use at five operations per day), the performance is stable and durable. It has an anti-pinch function for enhanced safety, which means the Sunshade will automatically stop and reverse if it detects an obstruction during closing. It has a high-quality electric motor that operates at a low noise level. No rattling, no annoying noises. Sunshade remains quiet on the road! Operating at less than 50dBa noise level and drawing less than 5A current, the motor ensures seamless operation without disturbing vehicle electronics and maintaining the integrity of your vehicle’s original roof.
One-Touch Operation: 8 seconds to switch, open and close.
Energy Savings: Thiselectric roof sunshade seamlessly integrates with the rear trunk’s cigarette lighter power, ensuring low energy consumption, it doesn’t affect the range, promoting battery safety and environmental responsibility. By reducing the need for air conditioning, the Sunshade helps conserve energy, allowing the systems of Tesla to operate more efficiently and potentially saving up to 2 degrees of electricity per day. This means you can enjoy a cooler interior without worrying about the impact on your vehicle’s performance and mileage by maintaining a better cabin and reducing battery drain. Using less AC and reducing heat gain by up to 90% helps economize energy, making it a practical solution for hot summer days. You can easily control the switch while driving. Extending Tesla’s drive range, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution. Featuring full coverage, exceptional sunlight and heat blockout, bring a harmonized and beautiful upgrade for your model Y.
Installation: The LITE Fully Automatic Roof Sunshade for 2019-2023+ Model Y for both left-hand and right-hand drive models is a breeze to install. With a non-destructive Installation, using a cigarette lighter connection to obtain power without drilling holes or damaging the circuits. This means you can enjoy the benefits of the Sunshade without making any permanent changes to your vehicle, ensuring the integrity of your vehicle’s original roof. It’s a simple plug-and-play process designed for your peace of Mind.
The electric Sunshade can be installed within 15-20 minutes. Installation via hardwiring is feasible, but it may necessitate a longer installation duration. Detailed installation instructions are included to guide you through the process, making it simple even for first-time installers.
The set includes a 1 pc sunroof frame sunshade, one actual Sunshade, and 2pcs of clips to keep it securely in place, ensuring it won’t sag or collapse. You will need the following tools and materials for Installation (already included): Prybar, Connector (power adapter/wiring), Installation Aids (Threading rod, Adhesive Tape), and Screwdriver Set.
Note: To avoid damaging the Sunshade, ensure it is fully open or closed before lowering the windows. This Sunshade dramatically enhances the driving experience, protects the vehicle’s interior, and improves energy efficiency and overall comfort.
This new Tesla accessory is currently shipping to TEZspex retailers nationwide.
MODEL #: ESL-19Y MSRP: $1,100.00
No cutting, drilling, or other permanent modifications are required!
For more information about TEZspex LITE Fully Automatic Roof Sunshade and to place an order contact us at 1-877-777-8811, sales@rydeenmobile.com.
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