Get EV-Certified at SEMA, Register for Electric Vehicles 101 Presented by Legacy EV

DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.27.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas will provide attendees the unique opportunity to become electric-vehicle (EV) certified as part of a new SEMA Education initiative to create a more robust career- and professional-development program year-round.

On Monday, October 30, early arriving attendees and exhibitors can gain a new understanding of EV powertrains in an intimate, hands-on session capped at 20 participants during “Electric Vehicles 101 Presented by Legacy EV.” Register here.

“This course will provide a brand-agnostic and hands-on training opportunity for automotive techs to upskill themselves with a new understanding of EV powertrains. The one-day training will focus on the fundamental functions of electric powertrains and explore key high voltage safety practices,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “And, most notably, trainees who complete this course will receive an EV101 certification from Legacy EV.”

Greg Snowden (above right) of Revolt Systems will join curriculum specialists Baily Soto and Tom Santilli of Legacy EV for the full-day program, detailed below.

Program Schedule:

9:00 a.m.-12:10 p.m. 

“Understanding EV Anatomy and Electrical Theory”

Learning how EVs work begins with understanding what is inside them and then the fundamentals of how they are powered. The topics will be covered during the first session, giving attendees an overview of the components that make up an EV, their functions and the electrical theory that gives them modern performance. Core ideas covered will include EV components and systems, Ohm’s law, Watt’s law and electric circuits using models, mathematics and computational thinking.

In this session, attendees will discover and understand:

  • What systems are needed to make a functional EV?
  • What are the functions and essential specifications of EV components?
  • How can we model the behavior of electricity in a wire with water and a hose?

12:10 p.m.-12:50 p.m.

Break 

12:50 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

“Applications With EV Specifications, EV Tooling, HV Safety”

Knowing how EV works is important, but being able to apply that knowledge is where the learning truly brings value. The second session will provide the fundamentals of high-voltage (HV) safety compliance and attendees will apply their knowledge from the morning session with safety best practices while working on real EV powertrains. Attendees will use EV tools and equipment, zero voltage verification, block diagrams and vehicle specifications.

In this session, attendees will discover and understand:

  • How can we use EV components specifications to determine and improve vehicle performance?
  • How do I use a digital multimeter to measure voltage, current, resistance and continuity in a HV circuit?
  • How might I arrange and wire EV components to fit an ICE vehicle and chassis?
  • How do I perform a certified HV disconnection procedure?
  • How do I verify that my system is de-energized or zero voltage verified (ZVV)?

The cost to attend “Electric Vehicles 101 presented by Legacy EV” is $600 per attendee. Legacy EV will allow participants to apply the session cost ($600) toward a full Legacy EV Certified Technician certification course. Register here.

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as cost-effective as possible for all. Register at SEMAShow.com/register for just $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

SiriusXM with 360L to Make Volvo Debut in All-New and Fully Electric Volvo EX30 and EX90

NEW YORK, NY (07.27.23) – SiriusXM with 360L – SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment experience – will make its Volvo debut in the all-new and fully electric 2024 Volvo EX30 and EX90 SUVs.

“Delivering a personalized and intuitive user experience is central to our purpose at Volvo Cars. The debut of SiriusXM with 360L in our next-generation fully electric EX30 and EX90 SUVs is an important step in this regard with the potential for continuous improvement over time,” said Mike Cottone, President, Volvo Car USA and Canada.

“Volvo Cars and SiriusXM have enjoyed a long and successful history of working together and we are excited to continue to deliver SiriusXM’s audio entertainment programming as a standard feature across Volvo Cars’ lineup of vehicles,” said Gail Berger, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Partnerships, SiriusXM. “We are also thrilled to debut our latest generation platform, SiriusXM with 360L, to Volvo Cars’ drivers in the new, all-electric EX30 and EX90.”

SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, which provides drivers and their passengers with more choice, better discovery and a more personalized listening experience.

The SiriusXM with 360L experience in Volvo cars will deliver SiriusXM’s full complement of in-vehicle content and features as well as the ability to receive over-the-air updates that will allow drivers to enjoy the latest features from SiriusXM. 

Volvo Cars’ customers purchasing or leasing SiriusXM-equipped vehicles in the United States receive a three-month trial subscription to the SiriusXM Platinum Plan. The SiriusXM Platinum Plan delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of varied content, plus access to SiriusXM outside the vehicles on the SXM App and on connected devices and speakers in the home.

SiriusXM’s music channels are expertly curated, ad-free, and deliver an exceptionally wide array of audio choices for listeners. Covering every genre across many decades, channels feature popular tracks and deep cuts from popular artists, as well as introduce listeners to new and emerging musicians and bands. Artist-branded channels from Hall of Fame and iconic talent feature original content that can’t be heard anywhere else. SiriusXM’s concept-based channels, such as Road Trip Radio and Yacht Rock Radio, or its many activity and mood-based channels, are designed to deliver a personalized music experience that fits the moment.

SiriusXM offers the most extensive lineup of professional and college sports in audio, news from around the country and the world from many sources and political perspectives, the scoop on the latest from the world of entertainment, hours of stand-up by the funniest comics and more.

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit www.SiriusXM.com.

The 12volt News Show… Showcase Your Company’s New Products Right from Your Company HQ!

SHREVEPORT, LA (07.27.23) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios staff members, work to deliver positive industry news each business day.

The 12volt News Show was created as a vehicle for companies across the 12volt industry to showcase their new products to members of the 12vol industry. The 12volt News Show is a venue to let industry members know about new products from manufacturers, distributors and service companies. From the convenience of a company’s office it can happen with no travel, freight, booth or other expenses.

12volt distributors can showcase their various brands in their custom 12volt News Show Studio.

Once a company selects a new product for the 12volt News Show it is so easy. Standing against a blank wall a staff member holds a product chest high. A second company member Snaps the image and Txts the image to 318 469 2526. Include information about the product and desired means of contact. Presto it can happen. A 12volt Central Studios staff member will respond to complete the process. That is the 12voltSTP Tool at work.

Matt Bund held a speaker box in the hallway of the Q Power HQ in Houston, had an image snapped. Had the image sent by txt to 318-469-2526. Presto.

The 12voltSTP Tool and The 12volt News Show work hand-in-hand with the 12volt News to deliver positive news to members of the 12volt industry.

A number of 12volt News Show Packages are available.

For more contact mike@12voltnews.com.

MB Quart and Davis Distribution Kick Off New Relationship

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.26.23) – MB Quart and Davis Distribution kick off a new partnership as Davis Distribution will be carrying the entire line of MB Quart products and offerings. Davis Distribution is a regional “wholesale only” distributor that services customers in Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Virginia, Southern New Jersey, Delaware, and DC. MB Quart is extremely excited to welcome Davis Distribution into the family of distributors. From Jeep Tuned Audio Kits to Q Series Speakers – Davis Distribution will be carrying every product from the MB Quart brand.

This brand-new domestic relationship with Davis Distribution will catapult MB Quart to new heights for national sales and revenue. Opening another outlet for others to hear and feel Music. Defined. products within America, Davis Distribution offers high-quality products and solutions with stocked products representing the very best vendors in the consumer electronics market. In addition – Davis Distribution offers same-day shipping allowing customers to use their “stockroom” or “just in time” inventory for that scheduled installation or last-minute end-of-the-day sale – helping maximize every potential sales opportunity.

MB Quart is very excited in welcoming Davis Distribution to the Music. Defined. family of distributors and especially with what Davis Distribution has to offer and bring to customers heading into the second half of 2023.

Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics, mentioned, “We are very excited about partnering with Davis Distribution. These are great people there that have been around for a long time that only deal with high-quality products in consumer electronics. I can’t wait to see how this relationship between MB Quart and Davis Distribution grows and profits. This is a special partnership for MB Quart!”

In February of 1997, Kevin Taliani, along with his then partner, Frederick Davis founded Davis Distribution Systems. Davis Distribution offers a high-quality selection of consumer electronics that include 12-Volt Audio, Video-Navigation, Tint, Home Audio-Video, and Various Accessories for the Residential and Commercial Custom Install Markets. Between high-quality products and putting the customer first in exceeding customer’s expectations in service and delivery – Davis Distribution matches MB Quart’s bar of excellence when it comes to customer service in consumer electronics.

Sam Taliani from Davis Distribution, commented, “I am so excited for this opportunity and partnership with MB Quart. At Davis Distribution, we place high-quality products and incredible customer service above everything. MB Quart aligns with both of those measures and how we have set the bar and standard in the consumer electronics industry. This is a HUGE win for both sides of this new relationship, and I can’t wait to see what new products and solutions MB Quart releases throughout the rest of 2023 and beyond.”

High-quality service and products are what MB Quart and Davis Distribution stand for. This critical partnership presents putting customers first while giving them the best in consumer electronics.

For further details on Davis Distribution, head over to their website at davisdistribution.com, and to see the entire line of products and solutions from MB Quart – follow the link at mbquart.com.

CE Global Pro Adds NavAtlas to the Rep Firm’s Lineup in the PNW

BEND, OR (07.26.23) – Industry Veteran Glenn McCarthy jumped back into the 12-Volt world this past May when he formed CE Global Pro, a PNW Representative operation, to service Oregon and Washington states.

Patrick Brooks shows the wide selection of NavAtlas products, in the Brea CA studio, that CE Global Pro will be representing in the Pacific Northwest.

“I am thrilled to be doing what I love, which is selling, and am excited to be able to do it in these picturesque states”, McCarthy stated. For over 30 years Glenn has been in the sonic reproduction arena. Starting in Japan and spanning several continents over the last 3 decades.

Glenn McCarthy is set in the CE Global Pro office in Bend OR to hit the road with NavAtlas.

NavAtlas has announced CE Global Pro will represent the brands’ growing product lineup in the Pacific Northwest to penetrate 12volt operations as well as, UTV and other applicable retail outlets.

Patrick Brooks, NavAtlas National Sales Manager, stated “NavAtlas is excited to have Glenn McCarthy and the newly formed CE Global Pro firm, as the newest addition to the NavAtlas list of rep firms. CE Global Pro will handle the NavAtlas Powersports line in the Pacific Northwest.”

Continuing, Brooks offered “Glenn and I have known each other for years and NavAtlas is excited to have him pounding the trails in Washington and Oregon for NavAtlas. NavAtlas joins 12volt brands in the CE Global Pro bag that include Cicada Audio, MTX, Epsilon and AlloyGator. Look for more to come from CE Global Pro on the road in the PNW.

Visit navatlas.com for more.

Automobility Announces Nationwide DSP and OEM Integration Trainings for Audison Forza Product Line

MONTREAL, CANADA (07.26.23) – Automobility is thrilled to announce National DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and OEM integration trainings for the renowned Audison Forza product line. As part of our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service and support.

“We understand the importance of staying ahead in the dynamic world of automotive audio. That’s why we have taken this significant step to equip our dealers with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving industry. With these training sessions, we aim to empower our partners and provide them with the tools necessary to enhance their customers’ audio experience”,said Phil Camirand Product trainer at Automobility.

Phil Camirand, Automotive Product Trainer, conducting a Forza training at the Automobility head office in Montreal. 

These DSP and OEM integration trainings are designed to cater to individuals who are new to the field or looking to strengthen their foundation. We will cover key concepts and practical techniques related to digital signal processing and seamlessly integrating Audison Forza products with the OEM head units in vehicles. By participating in these sessions, dealers will gain invaluable insights into optimizing audio performance, overcoming challenges, and delivering unparalleled satisfaction to their customers.

To access more details about these trainings and reserve your spot, we encourage all our dealers to get in touch with their dedicated representative. Our representatives are ready to answer any questions and provide comprehensive information regarding the schedule, location, and requirements for these exciting training opportunities.

“We firmly believe that knowledge is the key to success. By investing in our dealers’ education and skill development, we are reinforcing our commitment to delivering the highest standards of service and innovation in the automotive audio industry. We are confident that these DSP and OEM integration trainings for the Audison Forza product line will open up new avenues of growth and provide our dealers with a competitive edge in the market.”Said Rob Nelson ,President of Automobility.

Members of the Automobility sales team are setting up dates for dealer visits which we would provide the Installers hands-on experience with the tuning process. Dealers interested in attending Automobility trainings may contact Phil Camirand to get signed up for an in-person OEM integration and DSP training lesson with Automobility. Contact Phil by email at Phil@automob.ca.

12volt Specialist Hosts First In-House Training

MERRIMACK, NH (07.25.23) – On July 16th and 17th 12volt Specialist hosted an organized 2-day integration and DSP training for 17 dealers from New England and NY.

Audience members are engaged during Ken Ward’s  presentation.
Dealers were able to follow along during the working simulation set up with Audison Forza DSP amplifiers during Ken Ward’s session.

L Phil Chartier, 12volt Specialist Principal stated “This training marked the grand opening of the 12volt Specialist’s new office and training center in Merrimack, NH. The new office is a 1600 square feet 2-story layout with a bay that will handle 2 vehicles for real time hands-on tuning. It is truly a great setup with an office and areas for classroom type sessions plus storage on the second floor. I felt a training facility was needed in this part of the country and designed the new 12volt Specialist HQ with that in mind.”

Attendees at the Grand Opening outside with Chartier’s Harley Davidson set to demo DSP technology.
The 12volt Specialist custom logo signage stands out on the office wall.

Ken Ward and Chris McNulty from Elettromedia conducted the hands-on training for 18 people, including real time tuning of 2 different vehicles. There were staff members from 17 different area retailers from 6 different states. Dealers we able to follow along on computers with a working simulation set up with Audison Forza DSP amplifiers by Ken Ward.

“I have 2 more trainings set for this week with Brain Mitchell of Arc Audio in the house conducting the sessions.He will be driving his vehicle from the Steel Valley Regional this past weekend. The Tuesday, July 25th training will be hosted by Milton Benevides at Speed of Sound Technologies in Milford CT. The second event will be in my office on Thursday, July 27th” Chartier related.

For more info, email 12voltphil@gmail.com or find 12Volt Specialist on Facebook.

Wet Sounds Partners with Specialty Marketing as Exclusive Distributor for Mid Atlantic, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States

ROSENBERG, TX (07.25.23) – Wet Sounds has announced its strategic partnership with Specialty Marketing as the exclusive distributor for the Mid-Atlantic States, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States territories. This new collaboration will further strengthen Wet Sounds’ presence and enhance distribution capabilities in these key regions.

Specialty Marketing has a longstanding reputation for delivering exceptional service and support to their customers. With a dedicated team of experienced professionals, both inside and outside sales, Specialty Marketing has consistently demonstrated their commitment to customer satisfaction. Their extensive industry knowledge, coupled with their well-established network, makes them an ideal partner for Wet Sounds’ expansion into these territories.

By appointing Specialty Marketing as the exclusive distributor, Wet Sounds aims to provide customers in the Mid-Atlantic States, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States with easier access to their innovative high-performance audio solutions. With an unwavering focus on quality and performance, Wet Sounds offers a wide range of products designed to enhance the boating, powersports and outdoor audio experience.

“We are thrilled to have Specialty Marketing join our distribution network as our exclusive partner in the Mid Atlantic, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States,” said Ray Woodall, Eastern Regional Sales Manager of Wet Sounds. “Their strong market presence and commitment to customer service align perfectly with our core values.”

Specialty Marketing will provide comprehensive sales and support services to retailers, dealers, and installers within their respective territories. They will work closely with Wet Sounds to ensure a smooth transition and to maintain a seamless supply chain, enabling customers to access Wet Sounds’ products efficiently and with ease.

This exclusive distribution agreement between Wet Sounds and Specialty Marketing signifies a significant milestone in both companies’ growth strategies. Together, they will forge a stronger presence in the marine and powersports audio market, ensuring that customers in the Mid Atlantic States, Metro and Upstate NY, and New England States can access Wet Sounds’ cutting-edge products with ease.

For more information about Wet Sounds and their industry-leading audio solutions, visit www.wetsounds.com. To learn more about Specialty Marketing and their distribution capabilities, please visit www.specialtymarketing.com.

Tint World Partners with Gyeon to Deliver Top Ceramic Coating and Detailing Products and Services

BOCA RATON, FL (07.25.23) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced a new partnership with global leader Gyeon to provide drivers with reliable, high-performing ceramic coatings and detailing products.

“With this partnership, we’re able to continue delivering the innovative, trusted automotive products that Tint World customers expect,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Gyeon is one of the most trusted brands for high-quality, technology-based protection and detailing solutions, and we’re proud to share their products through our industry-leading ceramic coating service as well as introducing their consumer retail offerings.”

Gyeon, a worldwide leader, offers highly technical and easy-to-use advanced ceramic coatings and category-leading detailing products for professional detailers and consumers.

“Tint World is the right franchise for our mission to meet the needs of a wide variety of drivers across the U.S.,” said Jeff McEachran of Gyeon. “The comprehensive range of top products they offer makes them the go-to automotive services provider in their markets. As a Tint World partner, we have a unique opportunity to reach new customers and new markets to support our strategy for growth.”

Visit tintworld.com and gyeonusa.com for more.

It’s Summertime… ‘Jammin’ N July’ Is the Name of The Tune to Drive Sales

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.17.23) – ‘Jammin’ N July’… It’s Summertime and great to see 12volt industry members Jammin’ N July to connect with consumers and drive sales.

Vehicles moving into the WesBanco Arena on Friday.

Action over this weekend included the Steel Valley Regional XII in Wheeling WV, Custom Sounds Texas Heatwave in Austin TX, PowerBass in Huntington Beach CA, Arrowhead Marketing in Pleasant Hill MO and Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK. Stay tuned for more on these events from the 12volt Central Studios.

Judging underway on Saturday at the SVR XII in Wheeling WV.

The Steel Valley Regional moved to a new venue this year in Wheeling WV. The Wesbanco Arena floor was filled with Sound Quaity competitors from across North America. Larry Chijner, once again, orchestrated the largest SQ event next to the World Finals. At Sunday press deadline no results were available.

Extreme custom vehicles on display in the Travis County Center Arena building.
The show floor inside the Custom Sounds Sale building.

The Travis County Expo Center outside Austin was filled with hundreds of exhibitor tents and activies across the massive grounds and arena. On site drifting action was a first this year at the event with David MacDonald driving the event.The Custom Sounds Sale building floor was packed with top brands offering extra special savings on top brands.

PowerBass setup outside the Huntington Beach Harley Davidson dealership with Erik Harbour (L) and Juan Quintana flanking dealership staff members.
PowerBass portable Bluetooth speakers on display. Handlebar pods were also showcased.

PowerBass took the opportunity to participate with Huntington Beach Harley Davidson in a Customer Appreciation and Free Bike Wash in Huntington Beach CA. PowerBass motorcycle handlebar speaker pods and portable Bluetooth speakers were showcased for the large crowd of bikers that attended the event at the Harley dealership.

The banner on the Arrowhead Sale JBL/Infinity Demo trailer definitely drew attendees to take the challenge to listen.
Classic Corvettes were a big draw at the Pleasant Hill event.

Chris Pace rolled the Arrowhead Sales and Marketing JBL/Infinity demo trailer into Pleasant Hill MO for an Friday evening event in the town’s historic downtown. The attendance was strong for the car show that featured many vintage Corvettes and included a live band, food and raffles. The JBL/Infinity trailer is loaded with various speaker brands to demo compared to the JBL/Infinity products. One side of the tailer is dedicated to marine and powersports products. “Participating at these local events is a way to connect with consumers and let them hear products that can upgrade the sound in their rides. Also we are always directing consumers to car audio shops in the area” Pace stated.

Cody Landis had Code Zero Customs setup at the Osage Casino Outside Tulsa OK. Demo vehicles from the company were on site along with custom enclosures for pickup trucks. “In Oklahoma pickups are very popular. Many pickups today are top of the line trucks. Those owners demand a great look for their aftermarket upgrades. Showcasing the custom enclosures and systems we create at our store is a great way to get the message out” Landis commented.

Code Zero Custom displayed the company’s products and custom work at the Osage Casino event.

Online sales have been on a steady rise for the past several years. The COVID-19 Pandemic, along with stimulus checks, led to a dramatic spike in overall 12volt sales which has come to an end. The recent Amazon Prime event, and other major retailer’s online promotions, further by-passed brick and mortar retailers.

Jammin’ N July themed activities by proactive 12volt companies, organizations and 12volt retailers can utilize social media to create consumer awareness and traffic into their stores… and very importantly drive sales.

Custom underseat pickup enclosures were spotlighted for high end pickup aftermarket audio upgrades.

It’s imperative that 12volt retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in the showroom. An impressive demonstration will bring a smile to the consumer’s face and can raise the hair on their arms as they reach for their wallets.

Sound-Off events and in-person activities are once again creating excitement. These facts indicate 12volt enthusiasts are ready to Crank It Up and get Jammin’ N July.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The new 12voltSTP Tool makes that easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image to 318-469-2526. PRESTO. Your company’s and positive activities could be in the 12volt News.

As an industry ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On.’ Let’s get Jammin’ N July!

Much more to come from the 12volt Central Studios.