PLYMOUTH, MI (04.28.23) – Automotive aftermarket professionals aged 39 and under are invited to expand their network during the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Networking Mixer at the SEMA Garage in Detroit. Join the Network in kicking off their second Professional Development Program, mix and mingle with industry friends, and discover resources to help up-and-coming leaders succeed in the automotive aftermarket.
Visit sema.org for more.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.27.23) – At last year’s Industry Awards Banquet, SEMA introduced SEMA Fest, an enthusiast-focused experience that connects automotive enthusiasts with the aftermarket industry for a celebration of car culture and automotive lifestyle. Combined with the SEMA Show and officially called SEMA Week, the goal of the expansion is to create the most exciting automotive event in the world.
During the planned five-year rollout period and beyond, SEMA will remain dedicated to producing the annual SEMA Show–the premier automotive trade show that puts the latest products from top companies in front of tens of thousands of qualified buyers representing every segment of the specialty-equipment industry. Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2023 SEMA Show can get started at SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.
Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show provides exhibitors with the aftermarket’s most valuable venue for creating more business, expanding brand awareness, introducing new products and engaging with automotive professionals.
Open to the automotive trade, the 2023 SEMA Show will take place Tuesday-Friday, October 31-November 3. For more information on the 2023 SEMA Show or to exhibit, visit www.SEMAShow.com.
SEMA Fest is an enthusiast-focused event that is open to everyone, including automotive enthusiasts and professionals. The two-day celebration will be held at a separate venue–the Las Vegas Festival Grounds–Friday and Saturday, November 3-4.
The festival will feature music and entertainment, craft food, automotive celebrities, drifting competitions, freestyle motocross and the world’s most innovative and advanced custom vehicles.
To register for SEMA Fest or for more information, visit SEMAFest.com.
ORANGE, CA (04.27.23) – The wildly popular Old Fashioned Car Audio podcast series hosted by 12 Volt Aftermarket industry veterans Gary Bell and Matt Schaeffer, is pleased to announce world-class acoustics expert and speaker designer Andrew Jones as the guest in an upcoming episode dropping on April 26, 2023.
Originally from the UK and having worked for several respected audio brands, including KEF, Infinity, ELAC, and Mobile Fidelity, Andrew Jones joined Pioneer Electronics USA in the early 1990s. He played an invaluable role in the brand’s flagship speaker development, including the highly-regarded Pioneer (Technical Audio Devices) speakers, which favorites among audiophiles for their exceptional sound quality and performance. Jones has received many awards and accolades for his meticulous attention to detail, scientific approach to speaker design and deep understanding of acoustics. He shares many ‘can’t miss’ tidbits on the podcast that align with his philosophy for delivering exceptional sound quality and an affordable price. Jones believes high-fidelity audio should be accessible to a broad audience when he considers design parameters. Matt and Gary thrive in this interview with engaging questions, some surprising facts and many other audio-centric conversations.
The Old Fashioned Car Audio podcast episode with Andrew Jones drops (Wednesday, April 26, 2023). Find it on all the popular podcast stream channels.
For more information, please visit https://musaicdesign.com/ofcapodcast/
AUBURN HILLS, MI (04.26.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”), will attend the 2023 Jeep Beach Vendor Show at the Daytona International Speedway in booth 402 from Friday, April 28 to Saturday, April 29 where they will have vehicle-specific products designed uniquely for the Jeep® driver.
Two Alpine 2018 Jeep® Wrangler demo vehicles will be on-site, featuring the i509-WRA-JL, a 9-inch Weather-Resistant Digital Media Receiver with Hi-Res Audio Playback. The unit was intentionally designed with the Jeep® driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep®interior and retain the features Jeep® drivers use the most. Other features, like wireless and wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Hi-Resolution Playback (96kHz/ 24Bit), and one of the industry-first SiriusXM-Ready® head units enhanced with 360L and Hi-Res music streaming with TIDAL, make this the ultimate upgrade for the Jeep® driver.
A premium Dash Camera DVR-C320R with built-in drive assist and impact recording will also be installed to showcase the head unit pairing capabilities of the i509-WRA-JL. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.
Alpine’s 2015 Jeep® Wrangler will also be on-site with similar Jeep® specific solutions designed for older Jeep® Wranglers, including the i509-WRA-JK, DVR-C320R, PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System, PSS-SX01, and HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System.
Two Alpine-customized Jeeps will also be onsite to demonstrate the music-loving active weekender lifestyle of the Jeep® driver. “Hellbender,” Alpine’s 2017 Jeep® Wrangler, features a tee shirt cannon and custom-built motorized sled that pulls out from the rear of the vehicle to reveal two custom black Alpine I.C.E. Coolers.
An airconditioned Alpine Event Trailer will be parked on-site at the booth for visitors who want to chat with Alpine event staff and experience the latest vehicle-specific technology.
All Alpine products are available for purchase during the event with special, event-only pricing and free giveaways. Alpine staff and Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves will be on-site to give vehicle demonstrations, answer product questions, and offer on-site installation so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed in their Jeep®
Visit alpine-usa.com and jeepbeach.com for more.
Smyrna, GA 30082
• Full-Time
• Benefits: 401k, dental, life insurance, medical, vision
Schedule: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Job Description
Electronics Sales / 12 Volt Sales Person – Smyrna, GA Branch
Must-Have: Working Knowledge of 12 Volt Industry – Thru Retail and/or Electronics
Sales/Distribution.
Qualifications
• 2 year Minimum experience in Car Audio Retail or Electronics Distribution Industry is preferred
• A proven track record in sales is preferred. (Retail or distribution)
• Marketing and online sales experience is a plus.
• Background checks are part of the hiring process; this may include a Motor Vehicle Check.
Company Description
Representing more than 100 leading brands, Next Level Distribution is the industry’s wholesale consumer electronics source. We connect thousands of top name-brand products with thousands of retail partners. Our team at Next Level Distribution delivers options and services that clearly set us apart from standard distribution partners. Whether you need help with kit packing, pick/pack/ship, order processing, reverse logistics or one of the other services we offer, you can be certain that the best company for the job is Next Level Distribution.
We know your business and we make it our #1 priority by bringing you a diverse, cross-category product selection featuring solutions for every market and every customer. Headquartered near West Palm Beach, FL, with business operations in Atlanta, GA, Chicago, IL, Dallas, TX, Milwaukee, WI, and Minneapolis, MN, Next Level Distribution serves a customer base of over 3000 channel partners and retailers in the US. Earning your business is our focus each and every day. It takes more than just the right products at the right price to win and keep customers. We believe relationships, service, and support are most important.
Why work here? Great benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401k match with paid vacation and holidays. We are a family owned Business thriving and developing new business
opportunities.
Please send your resume to ngreene@getnextlevel.com to apply.
AUBURN HILLS, MI (04.26.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”), will attend the 2023 Jeep Beach Vendor Show at the Daytona International Speedway in booth 402 from Friday, April 28 to Saturday, April 29 where they will have vehicle-specific products designed uniquely for the Jeep® driver.
Two Alpine 2018 Jeep® Wrangler demo vehicles will be on-site, featuring the i509-WRA-JL, a 9-inch Weather-Resistant Digital Media Receiver with Hi-Res Audio Playback. The unit was intentionally designed with the Jeep® driver in mind to visually emulate the design identity of the Jeep®interior and retain the features Jeep® drivers use the most. Other features, like wireless and wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Hi-Resolution Playback (96kHz/ 24Bit), and one of the industry-first SiriusXM-Ready® head units enhanced with 360L and Hi-Res music streaming with TIDAL, make this the ultimate upgrade for the Jeep® driver.
A premium Dash Camera DVR-C320R with built-in drive assist and impact recording will also be installed to showcase the head unit pairing capabilities of the i509-WRA-JL. An Alpine PSS-24WRA sound system, with front 6.5” component speakers, 6.5” rear custom soundbar replacement speakers, 8” compact powered subwoofer, and 4-channel amplifier will be featured for in-vehicle sound upgrade demonstrations as well as an Alpine Weather-Resistant PSS-SX01 Sound System mounted to the roll bars to demonstrate exterior sound upgrade opportunities.
Alpine’s 2015 Jeep® Wrangler will also be on-site with similar Jeep® specific solutions designed for older Jeep® Wranglers, including the i509-WRA-JK, DVR-C320R, PSS-22WRA Weather-Resistant Sound System, PSS-SX01, and HCE-TCAM1-WRA Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System.
Two Alpine-customized Jeeps will also be onsite to demonstrate the music-loving active weekender lifestyle of the Jeep® driver. “Hellbender,” Alpine’s 2017 Jeep® Wrangler, features a tee shirt cannon and custom-built motorized sled that pulls out from the rear of the vehicle to reveal two custom black Alpine I.C.E. Coolers.
An airconditioned Alpine Event Trailer will be parked on-site at the booth for visitors who want to chat with Alpine event staff and experience the latest vehicle-specific technology.
All Alpine products are available for purchase during the event with special, event-only pricing and free giveaways. Alpine staff and Alpine Authorized Retailer Soudwaves will be on-site to give vehicle demonstrations, answer product questions, and offer on-site installation so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed in their Jeep®
Visit alpine-usa.com and jeepbeach.com for more.
TEMPE, AZ (04.26.23) – Mobile Solutions in-house training kicked off its first 2023 event with the Hot Rod Build School 4-day training this past April 15-18. The class featured many new topics that relate to the design, fabrication and finishing materials of custom vehicle interiors. Lead instructor and Mobile Solutions founder/CEO Bryan Schmitt said “Following the successful second MasterTech Expo, we wanted to highlight many of the important hands-on, close up processes that attendees specifically asked for during a more intimate class and shop setting.”
Over the four action-packed class days, nearly 25 attendees were led by a team of 5 instructors in the disciplines of metal fabrication, 3D router work, plastics, lighting, upholstery and more. The instructors included:
• Bryan Schmitt of Mobile Solutions (@mobilesolutionsfabrication)
• Chris Pate of MTI Acoustics (@mtiacoustics)
• Justin Kush of MTI Acoustics (@i_am_fabzilla)
• Wesley Cato of Anything Car Audio (@anything_audio_upholstery)
• Doug Dobson of HKI/Tury (FB – Doug Dobson)
“We presented so many new and cutting-edge techniques in this class that even the seasoned veteran fabricators found many new and exciting tricks to elevate their projects” adds Schmitt. Justin Kush and Chris Pate built an entire trunk in two days that was separate from the class project. Doug Dobson is known as an all-around helpful team player on these projects. Wesley Cato is one of the resident guest upholstery experts at Mobile Solutions classes.
April 2023 Hot Rod Build School workshop topics included:
• How to conceptualize a design and convert to something you can build
• Detailed router work examples for greater precision and efficiency
• Using aluminum in multiple ways for serviceable panel construction and cosmetic interest
• How to seam different materials together (vinyl, suede & carpet)
• New vinyl embossing techniques to personalize hot rod interior design
• New diamond pattern panel technique to emulate upscale vehicle interiors
• Technical vinyl wrapping examples with time-saving tools and preparation
• Where to find premium OEM-grade leather, vinyl, fabric, glue and supplies
Schmitt noted what’s different about in-person training at Mobile Solutions is the diversity of ever-evolving content, the breadth of knowledge and skillsets from the guest presenters and that each attendee does hands-on work with their own take home class projects. Alan Lindgren from Speed of Sound LLC in Memphis, TN said “With custom fabrication representing such a large portion of my business, these classes are invaluable. Attendees are able to take away much more than a few new shop techniques. It’s a comprehensive overview covering business practices, effective shop setup/management and of course, advanced fab skills in many areas”
The class project for this workshop was fashioned after a muscle car or hot rod rear parcel shelf with numerous layers of detail options each attendee could personalize. “Although the project focused on a rear deck application, the techniques from design to execution all transfer to other panels or parts of the interior” said Chris Pate, guest instructor. Justin Kush also taught a session on lighting and design work in the 3D CAD program called Procreate 3D.
NC Carpet and Apex Leather stepped in to support the Hot Rod Build School class with sewing machines and upholstery supplies & materials to ensure all projects were finished to a high degree of quality. Each attendee of course takes their project home to display their new capabilities to their clientele.
Watch Mobile Solutions’ Facebook, Instagram and website for more information when the next in-person workshops are announced, as well as MasterTechExpo.com for the 2024 MasterTech Expo education program details slated for March 3-6, 2024 at Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Arizona.
AVON LAKE, OH (04.26.23) – Design Engineering Inc., (DEI) will be the official heat-and-sound control sponsor of the Triple Crown of Rodding, a new premier event for hot rods and trucks, at Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon Tenn., September 8 and 9, 2023. The Triple Crown of Rodding showcases hot rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 and American-made trucks through 1998.
The Triple Crown of Rodding event was inspired by Shades of the Past, an event that was held for more than 40 years the weekend after Labor Day in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. When that show ended in 2022, Bobby Alloway of Alloway’s Rod Shop teamed up with Gary Case of Stylin’ Concepts and the Sport Truck Nationals to create an automotive event unlike any other, the Triple Crown of Rodding.
“The Triple Crown of Rodding is going to be a one-of-a-kind event. It is going to take you back to the days when car shows were really big events. Not just a show to bring your car to. That’s why we just had to be involved. With the star power of the best builders, the very best of the best vehicles in the country, and all of the DEI customers that showcase our products in their builds in one location, we just had to be a part of it,” said Steve Garrett, Creative Director, DEI. “This is going to be a good one for years to come.”
The Triple Crown of Rodding will feature an elite-level awards program with more than 40 state-of-the-art trophies including the Triple Crown Winners: Best Street Rod, Best Street Machine, Best Street Cruiser, Best Truck (up to ’72) Best Truck (’73-’87) and Best Truck (’88-’98). A brand new 2023 Chevrolet Pickup Hot Rodded by Alloway’s Rod Shop will be given away by luck-of-the-draw to one lucky registered participant.
And if you want star power, there is a long list of A+ builders that will be there that use DEI products, doing meet-and-greets, showcasing their builds, and choosing their favorite vehicles for their very own custom award and trophy. Meet celebrity builders like Phil and Jeremy Gerber (Roadster Shop), Jonathan Goolsby (Goolsby Customs), Jesse Greening (Greening Auto Company), Alan Johnson (Johnson’s Hot Rods), and many more top line builders and celebrities.
For more information about the Triple Crown of Rodding, visit www.triplecrownofrodding.com. For DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.designengineering.com.
METAIRIE, LA (04.25.23) – Oracle Lighting is proud to announce its new patented Oculus™ Bi-LED Projector Headlights for 2021+ Ford Bronco (p/n 5886-001/005/0023) is now shipping with an MSRP of $789.95.
“Our new Oculus™ Bi-LED Projector Headlights features a unique modular design, easy plug-and-play installation, and advanced LED projection with 5,200 Lumens of high-quality illumination for enhanced driver visibility in all weather conditions,” explained Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “The Oculus headlight is compatible with both the standard and signature Bronco lighting models.”
These headlights include precision LED lighting projector for optimum light distribution and beam angle and installs using original mounting hardware and headlight wiring without requiring additional relays or harnesses. Halo is available in White or Amber LED and features more than 200 bright LEDs for a vivid lighting impact.
“These all-new headlamps provide enhanced driver visibility with increased and focused LED light output,” Hartenstein continued. “It features a high-precision sharp cut-off line which reduces glare and prevents blinding oncoming traffic even when installed on lifted Broncos. The package also includes a tool for easy beam angle adjustability.”
The new modular design allows separate components (turn signal, marker lights, and mounting tabs) to be installed independently and provides a smaller packaging size for lower shipping costs for the end user and prevents possible shipping damage. The modular design also allows for these individual components to be replaced or upgraded down the road when future options are available.
“It is undeniably important to implement proper thermal management tools for high-performance LEDs to operate with reliability in various environments,” Hartenstein explained. “Oculus utilizes both active and passive cooling methods to sustain low LED temperatures. Remote mounted heat sinks and an internal cooling fan work in conjunction to insure proper temperature control and longevity of the LEDs.”
Light focus is very important for not only driver safety but others on the road that can potentially have their vision obstructed by glare. This is especially significant on lifted vehicles where the light source is raised and, in a position, to interfere with the field of vision of other drivers. These new Oculus headlights feature a very sharp cut-off line and focus light with precision specifically to avoid such issues.
Additional product specifications include:
• Headlight Wattage: 36W each
• Total Lumens: 5200LM
• Headlight Color Temp: 5500K (Pure White)
• Halo Color: Optional White or Amber LED or Amber/White Switchback
• Certification: DOT SAE 5839-504 HL VOR 19
• Patented Design: USPTO Patent D 877,404
• Designed and developed in the USA
• Warranty: 2 years
Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive aftermarket since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, please visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.
HICKSVILLE, OH (04.25.23) – The Wholesale House (TWH) is extremely excited to add Deaf Bonce Car Audio to its already impressive lineup of 12-volt products. TWH and Deaf Bonce worked together through numerous emails and conversations, with TWH’s Jason Wisecup (Purchasing) securing the line for TWH.
“We are excited to add such a quality line of amplifiers, subwoofers and speakers. Deaf Bonce is a brand that a lot of our customers have been asking for and we are thrilled to be a part of it,” stated Wisecup. He continues with “TWH has been searching for the right partner to fill some big opportunities and we did just that!” The Wholesale House became an authorized distributor April 13th and after receiving our first truckload we are ecstatic to see it flying off the racks.
Check out the new lineup of Deaf Bonce at TWH. Call your sales rep or see the full line at www.twhouse.com
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