New SEMA Show Exhibit to Highlight Future Vehicle Propulsion Technology

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.21.23) – The SEMA FutureTech Studio, a new exhibit at the 2023 SEMA Show, will give attendees at the world’s leading automotive trade show an opportunity to learn about what the future of vehicle propulsion may look like. Located in Central Hall, the SEMA FutureTech Studio will be part of the new EV & Future Propulsionsection that evolved from the popular SEMA Electrified exhibit at recent SEMA Shows.

“The automotive aftermarket has always been at the forefront of vehicle innovation and technology, and this new section will help showcase how our industry is leading the way in the creation of new engine and fuel options,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “The FutureTech Studio is a visionary space designed to inspire and support innovation across all segments and vehicles.”

Through various spotlights and showcases, the new immersive Show environment will feature parts and equipment that cater to the new technology, as well as vehicles that will highlight how these are employed. The exhibit will also include a SEMA Education stage, named FutureTech LIVE, where industry leaders will discuss different propulsion technology, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other advancements in technology.

Additionally, the new EV & Future Propulsion area will include more than 15 exhibitor booths showcasing parts and tools that cater to this emerging technology, and over 75 vehicles will help highlight the future of automotive innovation.

“The FutureTech Studio will help attendees understand what’s happening in the industry and how the industry is already pushing the creative envelope with new innovations, parts, and services,” said Luis Morales, SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology. “The EV & Future Propulsion section embodies our commitment to featuring the latest and future trends at the SEMA Show, and it is a testament to SEMA’s dedication to helping the community remain at the forefront of technological advancements.”

The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the multi-billion specialty-automotive industry and is the place to discover the latest products and trends, connect with industry leaders, and network with fellow aftermarket professionals. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.semashow.com.

GoFast Solutions Appointed as Authorized Distributor for Faital Pro in the United States

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MIDDLETOWN, CT (09.21.23) – GoFast Solutions, the Premier Mobile Electronics & Motorsports Distributor in the Northeast, is pleased to announce its new partnership as the authorized distributor for Faital Pro in the US. This strategic collaboration strengthens GoFast Solutions position in the emerging Pro Audio category.

Faital Pro, a renowned Italian manufacturer of high-quality professional audio components, has chosen GoFast Solutions as its trusted distributor to provide exceptional support and service to customers. This partnership allows GoFast Solutions to offer an extensive range of Faital Pro’s cutting-edge Pro Audio solutions, including loudspeakers, drivers, and accessories.

“We are thrilled to be named the authorized distributor for the Italian made Faital Pro brand in the US market,” said Bob Hernandez Director of Sales at GoFast Solutions. “Pro Audio has become a significant segment in the car audio market and Faital Pro’s commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with our values, and we look forward to delivering these exceptional products to our customers”

Faital Pro is globally recognized for its excellence in audio technology and its dedication to meeting the demands of professional audio engineers, sound designers, and musicians. Their products are known for their superior performance, reliability, and durability.

With GoFast Solutions now serving as the authorized distributor, customers in the United States can expect easy access to Faital Pro’s product line, as well as expert guidance and support from GoFast Solutions’ experienced sales team.

For inquiries or to learn more about the Faital Pro product lineup available through GoFast Solutions, please visit www.gofst.com or contact info@gofst.com.

The GoFast Winter Summit 2023 Was a Very Successful Event

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MIDDLETOWN, CT (09.20.23) – Winter Summit 2023 was an unforgettable event that brought together industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the northeastern part of the US. Held in Springfield Mass, the summit offered a platform for collaboration, inspiration, and knowledge exchange.

Dealers packed the Outlet Room when it opened to pick up great deals for Summit attendees only.

Key highlights of Winter Summit 2023 included:
20+ Level 2 Vendor trainings
Live Floor demos by Solar Gard
Live PPF Floor Demo conducted by GoFast Sales Team members Mike Cava & Ben Rudnick
All NEW CASH BOOF – Thousands in prizes were won in the New Cash Boof!
The star of the show was Brian Tedesco President/CEO of BP America showing off the new Blaupunkt e-bike

GoFast award winning sales rep Jonathan Mercado made sure the Cash Boof was working!

“The Blaupunkt e-Bikes were a tremendous hit” said Director of Sales Bob Hernandez. “I saw dozens of attendees, staff members and other vendors hopping on the e-bike & taking a spin throughout the day”. “We showed up with samples of each bike and brought home, none. All of the bikes were bought and taken home from the MassMutual Center”

Dealers enjoyed a delicious buffet between training sessions.

“The Cash Boof was an instant hit” commented Director of Merchandising Ian Worrall. “Several wives & girlfriends opted to jump in the booth instead of their counterparts. The buzz & the excitement around the Cash Boof was fun to see”

Brian Tedesco, Blaupunkt President/CEO, presents an E-Bike to a dealer.

“Putting on a successful event is hard work, getting all the manufacturer representatives together with tech trainers and coordinating with the event space, catering, entertainment etc., is challenging but our customers have come to expect and rely on our efforts to prepare themselves for the crucial 4th quarter” added Bob Hernandez. “GoFast is about more than moving boxes, our ongoing efforts to educate, train & introduce new and innovative products is our mission”. As we grow their businesses and make them more profitable, we become the value add partner they can’t do without.”

Visit www.GoFst.com for more.

SEMA Show Registration Price Will Increase Next Week

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.20.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, is only six weeks away, and registration is open at SEMAShow.com/register. Event management is dedicated to making the industry homecoming as cost-effective as possible. Credentials are just $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

Registering early allows attendees to take advantage of the best rates and plan a customized SEMA Show experience. Early registration also ensures that attendees will receive their badges in the mail before this year’s event. Otherwise, attendees must pick up their badges on-site at the SEMA Show.

This year’s SEMA Show will offer an experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet, where attendees can witness thousands of the newest and most innovative automotive performance products from 2,200-plus exhibitors. Industry members can also discover the latest vehicle trends while tailoring a professional development plan with best-in-class education programs.

Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!

Download the SEMA Show App

Create a customized schedule, view the floor plan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app. 

International Buyers and Attendees

International travelers can request a letter of invitation during the registration process. Unsure if you will require a visa from your country of origin? Use the U.S. Department of State’s handy Visa Wizard to determine your needs. In addition, many countries are eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. If you are traveling from any eligible country, register for your Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before your travel.

If you have questions or need assistance, contact customer service at 866-229-3687. International callers dial direct +1-224-563-3154 or email aapexsema@csreg.zohodesk.com. Service is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. CDT.

Tint World Breaks into Indiana with South Bend Location

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SOUTH BEND, IN (09.20.23) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers expands into Indiana with a new location in South Bend.

Owned by father-son team Geza and Kyle Bruckner, Tint World South Bend introduces the national franchise’s line of premium automotive aftermarket services and accessories to drivers and enthusiasts throughout St. Joseph County. Some of the solutions offered by the location include industry leading window tinting, paint protection films, audio and video upgrades, custom wheels and tires, detailing services, security enhancements and more.

“My son Kyle and I couldn’t have found a better opportunity to establish a business together that combines our passion for cars with a respected, recognizable brand,” Geza said. “At Tint World South Bend, drivers throughout our community are able to get the aftermarket upgrades and solutions they need, all installed by a world-class team of professionals that care.”

An automotive industry veteran, Geza previously owned a muffler shop and wanted to find a lucrative franchise opportunity to share with his son.

“Tint World can now be found in over 30 states, and we’re thrilled that Geza and Kyle are leading the charge for us into Indiana,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “The Bruckners are deserving franchise owners that recognize the value and sheer potential of a proven system. Combined with their automotive experience and strong work ethic, we look forward to seeing the positive impact Tint World South Bend will have for drivers throughout the area.”

Tint World South Bend, located at 51522 Indiana State Route 933, South Bend, Indiana 46637, serves the South Bend,Mishawaka, Elkhart, Granger, Notre Dame, Niles, Roseland, Osceola, Edwardsburg and Buchanan areas. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (574) 544-2324 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/in/south-bend-168/.

Lafayette Custom Automotive Hosted an Alpine Status Event with the Alpine Experience Tundra

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LAFAYETTE, LA (09.19.21) – Lafayette Custom Automotive was the place to be on Saturday September 16th as the company hosted an Alpine Status event. The Alpine Experience Tundra was under the Alpine tent in the parking lot along with more demo vehicles providing Alpine demos.

Owner Martin Branch and Shane Douet, along with the crew, had the showroom stacked with Alpine products and specials. The custom ‘No Bed Sled’ demo, with amazing graphics, draws customers like a magnet and gets customers taking.

Branch related, “Store traffic was strong and started when we opened the doors. The Alpine Tundra and tent along our busy street definitely got attention. Demos going on in the Tundra and other demos in our parking lot drew even more attention to the event. Alpine speakers and amps plus Status gear were sold during the day. An Alpine Bluetooth portable speaker was the prize and brought a smile to the winner’s face.”

Branch added, “Our customers also mentioned it was terrific to speak with Jimmy Chauffe and Dan Greenwood during the event. Having them on site and doing demos certainly adds to the event.”

Alpine specials were stacked on the floor and around the ‘No Bed Sled’

Chauffe related, “The event got off to a fast start and we did more than 10 demos in the Tundra before noon. Consumers spent time in the showroom checking out the specials and listening to the unique “No Bed Sled.” This demo, decked out with Alpine, is a pickup with no bed. Having Dan Greenwood join us for the event worked out very well.”

The event team gathered for an image. “Jedi”, Dan, Shane, Jessi, Martin with Alpine’s Jimmy Chauffe and Dan Greenwood (L to R).

LCA serves the area with a wide variety of automotive products and services. The company has beeen providing quality work in the Lafayette area for over 40 years and the team is committed to providing the best possible experience for their customers.

A big 12volt News thank you to Jimmy Chauffe for utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool to send event images.

Visit lcauto.com for more.

SEMA Launches New Industry Award for Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.19.23) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced a special new award that will recognize a featured vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show that showcases exceptional engineering. The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award will honor and celebrate a build that demonstrates quality engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance.

The award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty equipment industry and places a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle’s design and engineering.

“While vehicle aesthetics have always played a crucial role in the automotive aftermarket, this award recognizes the intricate engineering that transforms a vehicle into a masterpiece of design and functionality,” said Chris Standifer, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “It also sheds light on the technical brilliance behind the build and provides a platform for engineers to showcase their transformative innovations.”

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video, description of the engineering content included in the build, and the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show into their submission. Entries are being accepted until October 25 at this link.

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, Nov. 2, at the 2023 SEMA Show.

Visit sema.org for more.

Meyer Distributing Announces Alexandria, LA Location

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JASPER, IN (09.19.23) – Meyer Distributing, Inc., a leader in automotive specialty products marketing and distribution, has announced the addition of its Alexandria, LA crossdock. The cross-dock will have a direct feed from Meyer’s Arlington, TX distribution hub, which houses one of the largest inventories of automotive accessories, 4×4/Off-Road parts, and RV parts in the region.

“Meyer has expanded inventory significantly in 4×4, Off-Road, Overland, and Jeep/Bronco parts,” states Jamin Hochgesang, Meyer’s 4×4/Off-Road Sales Manager. “Having larger inventory available next day now throughout the South has been very well received by our customers. Whether it’s suspension, winches, tires, lockers, or any other Jeep/Bronco accessory, Meyer has it. Call our dedicated 4×4/Off-Road sales team today at 800-347-8939!”

“The Alexandria, LA dock will significantly improve deliveries to central Louisiana,” states Jeff Braun, CEO of Meyer. “We continue to expand our offerings organically and via acquisition in adjacent industries that allow us to grow and logistically better serve our customers.  Any wholesale only distribution company that might be interested in entertaining an offer should reach out to acquisitions@meyerdistributing.com.”

KICKER Returned to the Sand Sports Super Show with an Army of UTVs

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COSTA MESA, CA (09.18.23) – KICKER Performance Audio showcased an army of UTVs at the world’s biggest sand show – the Sand Sports Super Show. The Orange County (Calif.) Fair & Event Center hosted the colossal event September 15th-17th on the Center’s 150 acre grounds. KICKER’s area was booth 9008-LI, by the East entrance of the events grounds.

Several vehicles were featured in the KICKER booth, including the brand’s own audio-infused Polaris RZR, KICKER sales rep Murfco’s radical Can-Am X3, Gatorwraps’ Can-Am Defender, and California Sound’s (San Bernardino, Calif.) amazing Maverick R. KICKER also hosted multiple vehicles from Hoppe in the booth as well for a complete rolling force of KICKER-filled side-by-sides.

Jeremy Wynn, KICKER Events & Promotions Manager, related “It was another great year at the Sand Sports Super Show. Traffic in the booth was up from previous years, which resulted in a lot of good customer interactions.The temp was in the 70’s, although overcast, made the show days very enjoyable. I am extremely grateful for Hoppe joining us in the KICKER booth to show off our products along with theirs. Also, we thank our reps with Murfco for the sales support in the booth and getting us a few demo vehicles to show off and help fill the booth up with eye and ear candy. Overall, it was truly a great event as we continue to grow the KICKER brand in the Powersports community.”

“This was Hoppe’s first time out on the West Coast,” said Rachel Rodriguez, Hoppe’s Marketing Director. “We wanted attendees to pick our brains and hear what we’ve got to offer, but we were also pumped to engage with this side of the industry and its customers so we can better engineer our products around the ways they live and breathe off-road.”

KICKER’s powersports audio gear was also featured in multiple booths around the show. Brands like SSV Works (booth 2035-GG) had KICKER-equipped UTVs on hand, as well as Gatorwraps next door to the KICKER area. Several KICKER authorized dealers showed UTVs on-site, including UTV Stereo (Mesa, Ariz., booth 9101-LI), Temecula Motorsports (Murrieta, Calif., booth 1811), and Bert’s Mega Mall (Covina, Calif., in its pavilion).

For more information, visit kicker.com and sandsportssupershow.com.

Sanford Sound and Voltz Auto Truck Traveled to the GoFast Winter Summit

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SPRINGFIELD, MA (09.18.23) – The GoFast Winter Summit took place on Wednesday September 13th at the MassMutual Center in Springfield MA. Area 12volt Retailers Sanford Sound and Voltz Auto Truck closed their stores and headed to the GoFast Winter Summit to connect with manufacturers to see new products, attend trainings and network with fellow industry members. Both retailers report they traveled back to their stores with the feeling of a productive day.

Jack Bogard, Sanford Sound owner, and his team loaded into the company van at 6AM for the 170 mile trip from Sanford ME to Springfield MA. The team returned to home at 6 PM.

“It was a long day for sure. Connor, Kevin, Justin, Jack and I drove together in the company van for the 170 mile trip. Spending time with the team going to the event was a chance to discuss every day business in the store and personal lives. Also we talked about what we would learn at the Summit,” Bogard related.

The Sanford Sound team in the lobby at the GoFast Winter Summit. Connor, Kevin, Jack Bogard- owner, Justin and Jay (L to R).
The graphic on the screen revealed big things to come soon from Compustar and DroneMobile.

“At the Summit it was very nice to see some new products and talk directly to factory and tech-support staffs. The remote starter season is on the horizon and it was very good to get the natest news from Compustar and VOXX . We attended training sessions and connected with other dealers during the lunch buffet. As much as it is hard to close your shop for a day, the trainings and conversations at the Summit and in the van with the team, the day was very valuable for Sanford Sound. A big thank you to GoFast for putting the Winter Summit together,” Bogard concluded.

LUCAS Lighting showcased the company’s lineup and presented a well received training session by Josh White. Pictured above Steve Rogers-Vice President, Phil Cartier 12volt Specialist rep firm Principal and Josh White Technical Director (LtoR).

Juan Zambrano runs Voltz Auto Truck in Bridgeport CT. “I closed the shop and made the 90 mile trip to the Summit in the Super Duty. Seeing new products and attending trainings was on my plan. Meeting the Lucas Lighting staff and learning about their products was very positive. Josh White conducted a very informative tech training session. Also the Metra training provided info on how the navigate their website for installation info and pointers. Looking forward to the big news coming from Compustar and DroneMobile for the remote starter season that is right around the corner,” Zambrano related.

The GoFast Winter Summit was a very positive event for dealers in their marketplace.

Visit sanfordsound.com and gofst.com for more.