DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.30.23) – In May, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) relating to the adoption of a new Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) to require automatic emergency braking (AEB), including pedestrian AEB, systems on light vehicles. These systems utilize various sensors and components to automatically apply a vehicle’s brakes in a crash-imminent situation when a driver fails to brake enough or at all.
Rapid adoption of ADAS features raises new challenges–and opportunities–for vehicle modifiers.
Under the proposal, OEMs would be required to meet all the standard’s requirements within four years of publication. Small-volume manufacturers and alterers would have an additional year to comply.
NHTSA’s projections suggest the rule could save hundreds of lives and prevent tens of thousands of injuries to drivers, passengers and pedestrians annually. If adopted, the rule could significantly impact the aftermarket.
“Depending on the type of modification, and the vehicle make, model and year, it may be illegal to knowingly manufacture, sell or install any product–including aftermarket equipment–that would take a vehicle out of compliance with any safety standard, including the vehicle-based standards,” explained SEMA Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs Eric Snyder. “This is informally known as the ‘make inoperative’ provision. The implementation of a safety standard is what triggers the make-inoperative provision, and parts manufacturers must have a reasonable basis to conclude that their product won’t take a vehicle out of compliance with the standard.”
Currently, there is little data available to help anyone modifying an ADAS-equipped vehicle understand the exact degree of risk associated with changes to the vehicle. However, ongoing research at the SEMA Garage Detroit ADAS Research Center seeks to change all that.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is only applicable to the specific ’22 Chevy Silverado LTZ vehicle used in the SEMA Garage research and the specified modifications and shall not be construed to indicate any results from additional modifications to the ’22 Silverado or for the modification of any other vehicle.
MESA, AZ (08.29.23) – MSC America, North American distribution partner for BLAM, Brax, Helix, Match, Escort Radar, and Stinger Radar, is proud to announce its new Audiotec Fischer DSP Training for invited authorized dealers. To date, MSC has conducted 15 one-day trainings at its Mesa, Ariz. facility, with more scheduled in the coming weeks.
“The purpose of these in-person trainings is to educate authorized Audiotec Fischer dealers on how to properly and efficiently set up and tune cars using proprietary software,” explained Jason Digos, MSC America Vice President. “We try to do as much hands-on as possible so that our dealers are in the cars using the software and performing the tuning process. We use simulators to show different scenarios they may see on today’s modern OEM audio systems and how to correct them.”
The software utilized in the trainings is the Audiotec Fischer DSP PC Tool Software, plus two cars equipped with Helix or Match DSP systems and MSC’s own System Simulator.
Left to Right above: Nik Edmonds (MSC America); Matt Hipps (Sounds Good Mobile; Flagstaff, AZ); Kraig Kinnard (Sounds Good Mobile; Flagstaff, AZ); Robert Gonzales (Sunshades Tint and Sound; Austin TX); Art Ceballos (Audio by Art; San Antonio, TX); Jason Digos (MSC America); and Christian Herrera (NOLA Sound Solutions; New Orleans, LA) during a recent Audiotec Fischer DSP Training at MSC America’s Mesa, AZ facility.
Digos added that the dealers who participate in the trainings are impressed with the software and the results such proprietary DSP has on tuning a vehicle properly.
“MSC’s training was truly an eye-opening experience for Kraig (Kinnard) and me,” said Matt Hipps of Sounds Good Mobile in Flagstaff, Ariz. who attended the July 13 training along with Kinnard. “We were thrilled to dive deep into Audiotec Fisher products, discovering how to maximize its potential. The training provided us with a forward-looking perspective on the industry, preparing us for the upcoming changes. We loved every bit of it, and enjoyed further building strong and meaningful relationships with their team and the fellow participants that were there.”
Added Larry Penn, MSC America President, “Our training is unique and quite comprehensive, and everyone who attends learns something specific to their needs. We have seen that from when the trainings begin to when they end, the attendees grasp things they never really thought about before but quickly realize its importance, and are then excited to institute this new knowledge into their daily work immediately.”
Concluded Arturo Ceballos, owner of Audio by Art of San Antonio, Texas, who was also a member of the July 13 training. “The MSC training was fantastic, allowing us to freshen up and pick up new tricks. I’m very happy to be a part of the MSC community, and I thank them for these opportunities.”
STILLWATER, OK (08.29.23) – KICKER is now shipping the weather-proof PowerCans™ 6.5-inch amplified speaker system, made especially for powersports applications. Versatile KICKER PowerCans will be available for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online. Soon to be introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live™ streamed show, PowerCans will retail for $699.99 and will also be available for purchase online at http://www.kicker.com.
The two-way system, which connects to most devices via Bluetooth, is designed to deliver exceptional sound quality while enduring the toughest outdoor conditions, adding music to anything with a 12-volt battery. Amplified with 150 total watts and equipped with auxiliary inputs and outputs, this system boasts powerful and clear audio that will keep the listener immersed while on the trail or in the mountains. These all-weather speakers are IP66-rated and can be installed on round tubing from 1.5-to-two inches wide with included easy-mount clamps. Square clamps for golf carts are also available and sold separately.
A hardwired remote is included and features backlit, oversized buttons for gloved hands that change volume, track, and source on the fly, allowing you to stow away your device. The line output allows system expandability such as a subwoofer for full-range sound.
PowerCans also feature vibrant RGB LED lighting, adding an extra element of excitement to any off-road experience. Another accessory sold separately, the KICKER KMLC LED Controller can add up to 20 colors and 19 thrilling lighting modes for more fun on the trails.
POMPANO BEACH, FL (08.29.23) – ZZ2 is expanding its distribution channels across the country. ECUSD, located in New York, delivers and ships parts to New York, New Jersey, and New England.
ECUSD stands out in the North American distribution landscape. The company is known for its extensive distribution network and commitment to delivering quality products across diverse industries. Together with their fleet of trucks that ensure fast and dependable deliveries throughout that territory, ECUSD brings a wealth of expertise to our partnership.
“As ZZ2 grows, we have to look for partners to distribute our products across the country. This will make our solutions more accessible to customers”. Tiago Sperandio, VP of ZZ2, says ECUSD will be a great partner because they have their own sales team in-house and have a fleet of trucks to deliver goods every day.
ZZ2’s product is currently being shipped by East Coast USA Distributors. Get in touch with the ECUSD office at 516-326-1560 or sales@ecusad.com. Find out more about ZZ2 products at http://www.ecusad.com or www.zz-2.com.
STILLWATER, OK (08.28.23) – KICKER returned to the MEA KnowledgeFest at the Dallas Convention Center August 25-27, and featured the KICKER Tech Force conducting a pair of trainings Friday and Saturday. The classes helped installers quickly determine the equipment needed to integrate aftermarket audio into a factory sound system, using KICKER’s revolutionary FIT and KEY technologies. All training attendees were automatically entered to win one of two KICKER PowerBar powersports soundbars.
The wide variety of KICKER products were displayed on the K’Fest floor. The KICKER FIAT 500 Sport was Livin’Loud with demos.
KICKER’s booth was in front of the Convention Center’s main entrance, booth 801. Forty of the world’s largest 12-volt manufacturers also attended the event.
Josh Fletcher, Sandy Moore and Eva Pace (LtoR) are ready for another busy day in the KICKER booth.
Also making an appearance was the KICKER FIAT 500 Sport, equipped with the award-winning KEY Smart Amplifiers. KEY Technology drastically improves clarity, volume, and soundstage to nearly every radio on the market today – including those equipped with start/stop technology. It automatically applies time alignment, detects speaker sizes, adjusts gain, and applies a 40-band EQ and 24dB crossovers in a matter of seconds. The Fiat also featured the enormous Quad Box of Solo-Baric L7 square subwoofers.
The newly released PowerCans and award-winning KMXL horn-loaded speakers on display in the KICKER booth.
KICKER’s newest gear was on display, including the ST-Series of P.A. Speakers, SoloX Subwoofers, the powerful Warhorse Sub Amplifier, newly released PowerCans, plus award-winning KMXL Horn-Loaded Speakers.
KICKER Tech Force sessions helped installers quickly determine the equipment needed to integrate aftermarket audio into a factory sound system utilizing KICKER’s revolutionary
FIT and KEY technologies.
BREA, CA (08.28.23) – Hot off the Press. The NA82M features NavAtlas exclusively designed “Expedition” Off-Road Software of the continental United States, Mexico and Canada as well as whatever country a rider many be traveling to can be loaded.
Patrick Brooks in the NavAtlas Brea HQ with the new 8.1” Touchscreen Rearview Mirror
Find your location, set bread crumbs to find your way back to camp, Meet up with other riders by giving them Latitude and Longitude coordinates to find your location or another SXS. Onboard compass and speedometer keep you aware of your location and the speed you’re traveling via satellite. The really cool thing about the NA82M is it also plays music via Bluetooth from any smart device.
“The NA82M can take the place of any standard radio and run any system via 4.5volt (F&R) RCA’s. No other manufacturer is doing anything like this. It’s a game changer!” Patrick Brooks. National Sales Manager, stated.
GREENSBORO, NC (08.28.23) – Building on their success in North Carolina, Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced an ownership change and refresh to the company’s Greensboro location.
Tint World® Greensboro is the second Tint World® location in North Carolina owned by Shawn McMaster, Jaysen McMasterForeman, and Candi Krueger. They continue to provide premium automotive aftermarket styling services for auto enthusiasts and residents throughout the Greensboro area and welcome a new general manager, Chris Bivens, to operate the location. In a previous role, Bivens was part of a Charlotte-based team that achieved the Guinness World Record for most vehicles tinted in eight hours. He has over 15 years of experience in the industry, including 10 years managing tinting businesses.
“Candi, Jaysen and I recently opened the Fayetteville location, and we’re thrilled to be at the helm in Greensboro as well,” said Shawn McMaster. “We knew that Chris’s proven skills and experience in tinting would be a perfect match for Tint World®’s world-class offerings, and with him serving as general manager, we’re confident that Tint World® Greensboro will surpass the expectations of our customers.”
Tint World® Greensboro also offers a refreshed 12-volt product line, including audio, visual, navigation, alarms and more, and has recruited new specialized talent to enhance service and installation offerings for this line.
“Shawn, Jaysen and Candi are great examples of our proven franchise system empowering growth through multi-unit ownership,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World®. “They’re already finding success in Fayetteville, and through trusting in our reliable processes, they are taking Greensboro to the next level as well. I can speak for the entire Tint World® leadership team when I say that we expect to hear about first-class service in Greensboro and can’t wait to see what the future holds for these committed, driven owners.”
Tint World® Greensboro, located at 4407 Landover Road, Greensboro, North Carolina 27407, serves Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, Mebane, Summerfield, Winston-Salem, Jamestown, Oak Ridge, Archdale, Kernersville, and Gibsonville. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (336) 899-8395 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/nc/greensboro-029/
SHREVEPORT LA (08.19.23) WTF…Win This Friday. Mobile AVC won a SiriusXM prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 234 on Friday morning, August 25th.
The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 5.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 234th time on Friday morning August 25th. The Wheel landed on the SiriusXM space and the Mobile AVC slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out to the lucky winning retailer in Brunswick ME to let them know a SiriusXM prize will be headed that way. Erik Quick, the owner answered the phone. We told him the reason for the call and he said he had seen the post on Instagram earlier. Mobile AVC makes great posts on Instagram with vehicles posted in their facility that grabs the attention from their social media followers. On Saturday, August 26th Mobile AVC is partnering on a local car show including family activities. Great to see proactive retailers connecting with consumers to drive business and in-store traffic and sales.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, AlloyGator, Kenwood, JVC, SD Lighting, Nakamichi, Alphasonik, Race Sport Lighting and Maximum Power. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the winning 12volt retailer.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA, Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ and Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL.
Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun……On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, September 1st.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.25.23) – The SEMA Show Overland Experience, a popular specialized showcase at the world’s leading automotive trade show, is moving to a new location in 2023 to give attendees a more immersive introduction into the world of overlanding. The dedicated display will be prominently featured in the Diamond Lot, adjacent to the West Hall, providing a customized environment to highlight the growing overlanding market.
“Moving the Overland Experience to the Diamond Lot will enable attendees and media to easily access the latest products and innovations in the growing market segment, in an outside setting they were designed for,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “The exhibit will be conveniently accessible to all Show attendees via the LVCC Loop West Hall Station and the West Hall, which will feature the latest in trucks, SUVs, off-roading, powersports and utility vehicles.”
The SEMA Overland Experience will include dozens of customized vehicles–from pop-top-equipped trucks to sprinter vans to specialty trailers–featuring recreational and utility gear such as refrigerators, storage racks and units, makeshift kitchens, and solar chargers, everything to make off-the-grid travel fun and convenient.
The exhibit will also feature industry experts discussing key overlanding opportunities and trends that can add important new profit centers for aftermarket companies who are looking to diversify and grow their offerings.
“The Overland Experience is a great opportunity for attendees to delve deep into the lifestyle and gear associated with this adventure-driven niche,” added SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “With exhibits like the Overland Experience displayed throughout the SEMA Show, we will showcase what’s trending in the marketplace and what many consumers and enthusiasts are gravitating towards.”
Attendees will be able to engage with several leading brands, including current Overland Experience sponsors American Expedition Vehicles, KW Automotive, LinksWell Automotive, LiquidSpring, Mackin Industries, ORACLE Lighting, Powerbuilt and Caterpillar, Scosche Industries, and first-time exhibitor Winnebago.
The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry. It is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business contacts, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers from good to great. To learn more or to register to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.
BREA, CA (08.25.2023) – NavAtlas, maker of Off-Road Audio, is now manufacturing its own line of Off-Road Communications products.
Patrick Brooks, National Sales Manager, stated “From 2 passenger bundles with 2 Handsets and cable plus intercom, which is a perfect starter system to full blown 2 and 4 Passenger Systems featuring everything you need to keep in contact with your passengers and outside vehicles, NavAtlas offers solutions.”
Patrick Brooks spotlights the new NavAtlas Off-Road Coms product in the company’s Brea CA HQ.
Continuing “A choice of Headsets, “In-Helmet”, “Over the head” and “Behind the Head” Headsets, intercom, to car radio, cables, and antennas NavAtlas offers it all. If you’re not familiar with Off-Road Coms, as we call them, the intercom and headsets are to communicate with your passengers. When you introduce a 2-Dual Band 2-way radio into the picture you can communicate with the outside world” Brooks added.
The Off Roads Coms category is an emerging market. Proactive 12Volt retailers should investigate this category from NavAtlas as it offers high margins with a minimal investment.
12VoltNews.com 