BOCA RATON, FL (08.10.23) – Find out more about our Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto solutions available for Mercedes Benz vehicles equipped with the NTG5 system from 2015 onwards.
With our IT3-NTG5, customers are able to add the most desired features to their factory systems without compromising other factory features. It retains the factory microphone and utilizes the factory Bluetooth to handle all audio from CarPlay/Android Auto (audio streaming and Bluetooth phone calls). Siri and Google Assistant voice commands are also supported. In addition to to those feature the NTG5 unit offers front and rear camera inputs, USB playback, and smartphone mirroring as well.
With the IT3-NTG5 installed, consumers will have much smoother integration when using CarPlay/Android Auto since the audio source will be through the factory BLUETOOTH instead of AUX/MEDIA INTERFACE 2.
The IT3-NTG5 is available for purchase at a retail price of $850 and comes with a standard ZZ2 warranty of 3 years.
To learn more about ZZ2 solutions or to become an authorized dealer, you can contact our sales team at 929-220-1212 or email them at sales@zz-2.com.
WEST CHESTER, PA (08.09.23) The Audiofrog demo car is on the road with Jacob Wehmeyer, Customer Experience Manager, behind the wheel of the Volvo C30.
“If you’ve never heard an Audiofrog system now is your chance. The new Audiofrog Volvo C30 demo car is on the road making stops at Audiofrog dealers across the US” Wehmeyer related.
The first stop on this tour leg was at Tier One Motoring in West Chester PA on Tuesday, August 8th. Wehmeyer, along with Bruce Orr-Gemini Advantage Marketing, arrived early. As the Volvo was set up in front of the Tier One location Wehmeyer spent time with staff members covering the Audiofrog lineup and providing demos for staff members in the Volvo C30 which was designed and installed in-house at the Audiofrog HQ in California.
The Audiofrog Volvo C30 set for demos at Tier One Motoring on Tuesday, August 8th.
Jason Levy-VP, Brian Cocher-Lead Technician, Colby Brenner-Sales, Jacob Wehmeyer-Audiofrog, Bruce Orr-Principal Gemini-Advantage Marketing and Ron Hoser-Tier One Motoring-President (LtoR) are ready for the Audiofrog Demo Day.
“The day at Tier One Motoring was very good. We did many demos and each of the staff members were definitely impressed with the demo in the C30. There are pending sales also from customers” Wehmeyer stated.
The system in the Audiofrog demo includes 18 GB Series speakers and subwoofers, 7 Audiofrog HiFi Class-D amplifiers and the company’s prototype immersive Multiseat DSP.
Ron Hoser behind the wheel with his hand on the control during an Audiofrog demo with Jacob Wehmeyer.
On this leg of the Audiofrog tour there are 8 more stops before August 17th.
The previous tour leg was July 21-26 with John Gray-Real Performance Marketing with 5 stops in Virginia. One of those stops was at Sound Wave Customs in Virginia Beach VA. Sound Wave Customs made social media posts to promote the Audiofrog day at their store.
For the Audiofrog Demo Day at Sound Waves Customs in Virginia Beach the crew is ready. Owner Ethan Blau is on the right and AudioFrog’s Jacob Wehmeyer is third from the right. John Gray, RPM, was behind the camera.
Ethan Blau, Sound Wave Customs, related “It was terrific to have the Audiofrog demo car at our store. It was a super day as we had at least 20 people come in for a demo and we sold a couple big tickets. Jacob and John spent time covering the line with our staff and customers. Seeing Audiofrog make the investment to put a top quaity demo car on the road is really good for the industry.”
This graphic, along with videos, was posted on Sound Wave Customs social media accounts.
Upcoming stops on this leg of the Audiofrog tour include Precision Autosport-New Britian PA August 9, On The Spot Audio-Pennsauken PA- August 10, Bumper To Bimper -Freehold Township NJ-August 11, D&L Auto Accessories-Lancaster PA -August 14th, Depot Autosound-White Plains NY-August 15th, Sound FX-Harriman NY-August 16th and GilliN Custom Design-Middletown NY-August 17th.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.09.23) – The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will celebrate the talents and craftsmanship of automotive restylers at the 2023 SEMA Show through its PRO Cup Challenge.
Now in its fourth year, the challenge promotes the accessorization of new cars and trucks by having six automotive restylers feature an accessory package for a new-model vehicle in the PRO Booth during the week of the SEMA Show. Restylers benefit from gaining exposure for their company and skills by developing a build that is profitable and easy to replicate. The essence of the program is to inspire and motivate others–including consumers, dealers and restylers–to customize their vehicles.
“The PRO Cup Challenge is the ultimate competition where restylers get to showcase the art of what they do every day and have it displayed in a high-profile location at the industry’s premier aftermarket trade show,” said SEMA Council Director and PRO LiaisonDenise Waddingham. “Competing is a great way for restylers to get their name and business out there and share their unique take on how a new-model vehicle can be transformed.”
Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge-winning vehicle based on mass appeal, ease to replicate and potential profitability. SEMA Showgoers will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite accessory package and recognize it with the People’s Choice Award.
Applications are due Friday, August 11. To view the build criteria and submit your application, visit the PRO Cup Challenge website.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.09.23) – The SEMA Show Online Media Center is now available for exhibiting companies to submit SEMA Show-related press releases to be included on the SEMA Show website.
Exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees.
With thousands of media in attendance, exhibiting companies will benefit by spotlighting their newest and most innovative products to direct media to their booths. The Online Media Center is designed specifically for journalists to find Show-related news and announcements.
Below are a couple of announcements you will find in the Online Media Center:
OLATHE, KS (08.08.23) – Garmin Ltd. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire JL Audio, a privately-held U.S. company that designs and manufactures audio solutions for marine, aftermarket automotive, powersports, home and RV customers.
“JL Audio’s extensive audio experience will create new opportunities to provide premium audio features across a broad range of our markets and products. The JL Audio brand is known around the world for offering a premium audio experience which is made possible by their talented and dedicated associates. We look forward to welcoming the JL Audio team into the Garmin family.” –Cliff Pemble, Garmin President and CEO
With over four decades of experience, JL Audio offers premium audio products and accessories, including speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and other audio components.
“JL Audio shares Garmin’s vision to deliver unique technology solutions, supported by meaningful R&D and engineering. We are thrilled at the opportunity to integrate into Garmin’s product ecosystem. JL Audio will contribute audio knowledge and engineering expertise to create great audio products for many years to come.” –Lucio Proni, JL Audio Founder and CEO
JL Audio is headquartered in Miramar, Fla., and employs more than 600 associates. The completion of this acquisition is expected to occur by the end of 2023 and is subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions. All existing JL Audio products will continue to be supported post-closing, and customers can expect to continue receiving the same great customer service. Financial terms of the acquisition will not be disclosed.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.08.23) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has issued a total of $245,000 in scholarship and loan forgiveness awards through its SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund to help 104 individuals pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket industry. The winners include 87 students who received scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 and 17 employees of SEMA-member companies who received loan forgiveness awards to help pay off student loans.
SEMA issued $245,000 in scholarship and loan forgiveness awards this year to help more than 100 individuals pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket industry.
“SEMA receives a large number of scholarship applications each year, and the quality of this year’s applicants was truly inspiring and impressive,” said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Chris Standifer. “Their passion and innovative mindset were evident in their applications, and it gives us great hope that they will continue to advance the aftermarket industry and make a lasting impact.”
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Program was established in 1984 to help support the future of the automotive aftermarket industry. Since its inception, more than $3 million has been awarded to deserving students. One of the primary criteria for scholarship recipients is that the winner must have clearly demonstrated a passion for the automotive industry.
The online application for next year’s program will open in January 2024 at www.sema.org/scholarships.
EASTLAKE, OH (08.08.23) – Experience the fusion of aesthetics and functionality with the AURORA – a color changeable universal analog panel. This is not just a dashboard; it’s a statement that speaks volumes about your love of your vehicle.
An incredible touch for any fab/resto mod project and direct fit replacement for the Chevy II Nova. The Aurora has a white polycarbonate sub surface overlay with brush stroke finish with your choice of chrome or black chrome bezel.
SHREVEPORT, LA (08.07.23) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios staff, works to deliver positive industry news each business day. Creating the 12voltSTP Tool was another example of making it easy for industry members to deliver their company’s brand and activities to members of the 12volt industry.
On Sunday afternoon August 6th the sun finally came out at the Sturgis Rally 2023 and there was good action in the Kenwood booth with Audio Edge making installs.
See action from Sturgis SD, Redlands CA, Pittsburgh PA and San Diego CA. The images below are examples of the 12volt STP Tool at work in just the last weekend. There will be much more to come as coverage of events and activities take place.
TuneTime hosted the Car Audio and Coffee 2 at their location in Redlands CA. Mike Storckmann and team welcomed retailer, distributors, manufacturers and consumers. Musway, U.S. Acoustics and AudioFrog were on site along with Mike Rios from Paragon. A SQ event was offered and officiated with Richard Papasin and Papasin Sound conducting EMMA USA 1X and WCA 1X formats. Clear Image Audio sponsored the First Place Trophies and Karma Mobile Audio sponsored 2nd and 3rd place trophies plus lanyards.
The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever for industry members and companies to showcase positive activities and products. Snap..Txt..Presto.. your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318-465-0844 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.
Ever active Ed Nuttall and Team Nutz checked out the action at the Pittsburgh events and passed out hundreds of fliers plus printed ‘Hands Off Please’ sheets for Classic owners to place on their prize vehicles.
Today, a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone.
To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business 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 318-465-0844. Presto, your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.
When the Team San Diego Basshead Bass Wars Bash wrapped at the Fruhmann Motors Gallery in San Diego on Sunday Richard Papasin snapped this image. Papasin Sound and Kyle Siebenthal hosted the event.
Look forward to seeing your company’s brand and activities in the news as 12volt industry members utilize the 12voltSTP Tool.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA (08.07.23) – The Audio Xperts AX Tesla was onsite at the Tesla Takeover the weekend on July 29th and 30th.
Vince Miranda related “We decided to make it a special weekend for my bride’s birthday and take the trip down to the Tesla Takeover 2023 in San Luis Obispo which is about a 4 hour drive from the shop in Vacaville…and it was certainly a very exciting weekend.”
The Madonna Inn grounds were packed with Teslas for the 2023 Takeover.
Vince Miranda showed the Michelin Man the AX Tesla.
The fields at Madonna Inn were filled with all things Tesla as Tesla owners connected with fellow owners, checked out amazing displays and learned about the latest advancements in EV technology. There were several hundred Teslas on site with some featuring aftermarket upgrades plus vehicle graphics and wraps.
In April of this year there was an Alpine F#1 Status Premiere event at the Audio Xperts’ location in Vacaville.
The AX Tesla Alpine F#1 Status controls in the console.
One of the many customized Teslas at the Tesla Takeover.
Miranda continued “After exeriencing the Alpine F#1 Status system in that Tesla I made the decision to purchase a Tesla for the shop, do a custom installation of a F#1 Status system and utilize the vehicle as a feature for store promos. It took a few months to make all that happen but by mid-July the project was completed. At that point the next stop was the Telsa Takeover 2023.”
At the Tesla Takeover the AX Telsa was far and away the best sounding Tesla onsite. Miranda welcomed fellow owners to take a seat for demos and many took a seat. Everyone who took a seat related it was by far the best sounding system they had ever heard in a car….it was also better than any in-concert experience. Miranda captured video clips of people after demos to utilize in social media posts.
The Alpine F#1 Status Premier event at Audio Experts in April with Vince Miranda on the left.
“Using the AX Telsa for demos at the store was part of the overall plan. Connecting with the Tesla community at events like the Takeover was another part of the plan. Based of input from the Tesla Takeover we see many positive opportunities. Tesla is by far the leader in the EV category. But owners of other EV brands will see their EV vehicle can also have a concert hall sound” Miranda concluded.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.07.23) – The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is accepting applications for its 2023 SEMA Show Feature Vehicle Program and is looking for up to 10 unique builds to display in its TORA Feature Vehicle Trail display at the SEMA Show.
Available to TORA members as a membership benefit, the program enables manufacturers and builders to showcase their talents and expand their footprint beyond their SEMA Show booth. The TORA Trail is located outside of the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, where thousands of industry buyers pass by daily.
Submissions are being accepted in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road and CUV crossover. All selected participants will have their build voted on by Showgoers for the chance to win the TORA Best in Show award, which will be announced during the TORA Reception at the SEMA Show on Wednesday, November 1.
Applications are due August 23. The cost to participate is $1,500, with $500 of that donated to SEMA Cares, the fundraising arm of the association that supports a variety of children’s charities. Get your name out there as a builder; submit your application today. Not a TORA member? Apply here.
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