EDMOND, OK (03.26.26) – On April 8th from 11–1, Petra will host its annual Beats & Bites Car Audio Event, a customer appreciation day, dedicated to the 12-Volt community.
At the event, attendees will enjoy free BBQ lunch sponsored by DB Drive, along with drinks and dessert provided by Pioneer. The event will also feature exclusive one-day deals on some of the top car audio brands that Petra retailers rely on every day.
Retailers who attend will have the opportunity to connect with Petra team members, meet with representatives from DB Drive and Pioneer, plus learn about the latest products, technology, and trends in car audio. The event will also include giveaways throughout the day, including a 65” TV and other popular car audio and tech items.
Ed Lacy, District Manager and 12-Volt expert at Petra, shared, “This event is all about our customers. We want to give installers and retailers a chance to enjoy some great food, learn about new products, and take advantage of special deals we only offer during events like this. It’s a great opportunity to connect with our customers and the brands that help drive their business.”
WASHINGTON, DC (03.26.26) – The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) today announced its relaunch with an expanded advocacy strategy, enhanced research capabilities, and a renewed commitment to coalition-based action to protect the future of the off-road industry and enthusiast community.
With a focus on powersports and dirt bikes, as well as trucks and SUVs, ORBA’s core mission – to serve as the off-road business community’s leading advocate on issues affecting access, recreation, and responsible land use – remains unchanged. What is new is a more rigorous, data-driven approach that includes regional economic impact reports, consumer research, and deeper collaboration across the outdoor recreation ecosystem.
“No single organization can achieve our advocacy goals alone,” said ORBA leadership. “The future of off-road access depends on strong coalitions, shared expertise, and coordinated action. We are always stronger together. Thank you to all who have taken the time to provide us important guidance and insights as we developed the future of ORBA, including many members of SEMA’s TORA community and local and regional OHV advocates.”
By combining SEMA’s government affairs expertise and storytelling capabilities, and the reach of the enthusiast-driven SEMA Action grassroots network, ORBA will support and strengthen the work of nonprofit partners operating at the local, state, and regional levels. These organizations bring critical on-the-ground expertise that is essential to ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the off-road community.
As ORBA enters a new chapter, the organization remains focused on advancing its mission through strong advocacy, collaboration, and responsible stewardship of public lands. Sean P. Holman has been named Interim Executive Director and Laura Butcheras Legislative Director. Karen Bailey-Chapman, SVP of Public and Government Affairs for SEMA, will continue to lead the organization’s strategy implementation. Fred Wiley will retire from his role with ORBA, marking the conclusion of his tenure with the organization. Wiley played a significant role in ORBA’s history and development, and we thank him for his years of service and dedication to the off-road business community.
What’s Ahead for ORBA
As part of its relaunch, ORBA outlined several priority initiatives already underway:
Protecting Access to Public Lands ORBA will continue to monitor and provide formal comments on administrative, state, and federal actions that impact access to public lands. Current efforts include ongoing engagement related to the Western Mojave (WEMO) plan, Johnson Valley, and Moab’s Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Plan, with additional projects expected in the months ahead. Additionally, ORBA will increase its work educating legislative staffers, political appointees, and other policy-related organizations about the threat to public lands access and the economic impact trail closures would have on the U.S. economy and, importantly, U.S. automotive manufacturing.
Supporting Federal Legislation that Preserves Motorized Access to Outdoor Spaces ORBA has joined other partners in support of the federal Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act (S. 2968), the Public Lands Access Restoration Act (H.R. 7979), and expanded funding for the Recreational Trails Program. Advancing these legislative efforts will be among the key priorities during SEMA’s upcoming Washington Rally in Washington, D.C.
Continuing the EcoLogic Partners Collaboration ORBA will maintain its partnership with EcoLogic Partners – a coalition that includes ORBA, American Motorcyclist Association District 37, and the American Sand Association – to challenge actions that threaten access to public lands. Most recently, SEMA and EcoLogic Partners jointly funded successful litigation against the California Coastal Commission’s attempt to close OHV access at Oceano Dunes.
Launching Regional Economic Impact Reports While national data demonstrates the economic significance of outdoor recreation, ORBA is focused on arming policymakers and the off-road community with localized data. The organization plans to complete four regional economic impact reports across geographically diverse areas of the United States in 2026 and 2027, highlighting the off-road industry’s role as a critical economic driver in local communities.
Expanding Coalitions and Partnerships ORBA does not exist to replace the work of other organizations in the off-road community. Instead, ORBA’s role is to support, amplify, and collaborate – whether through joint legislative initiatives, shared advocacy efforts, or by working with business members to educate customers and vendors about emerging threats and opportunities from government and special interest actions.
ORBA will strategically align efforts with SEMA’s Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) council.
Stewardship and Education Land stewardship and driver education are foundational to the long-term health and credibility of the off-road recreation community. Responsible use of public lands protects the environments that make off-roading possible, helps preserve access for future generations, and demonstrates to land managers and policymakers that enthusiasts are committed partners – not adversaries – in conservation. Driver education plays a critical role by teaching best practices such as staying on designated trails, minimizing resource damage, respecting wildlife and other users, and understanding local rules and conditions.
Together, stewardship and education reduce conflicts, prevent closures driven by misuse, and strengthen the community’s voice when advocating for continued access. Simply put, protecting the land and educating those who enjoy it are essential to keeping off-road recreation sustainable, respected, and accessible.
Looking Forward With new tools, deeper partnerships, and a renewed focus on collaboration, ORBA is positioning itself to be a more effective advocate for businesses, enthusiasts, and the lands that make off-road recreation possible.
Upgraded Membership Benefits Government affairs and advocacy remain the core competency of ORBA and a significant reason for business members to invest. We have upgraded the membership benefits to include regular communications, sponsored brand content across ORBA and SEMA Action Network digital channels and access to consumer research tools, and more.
Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA Senior Vice President, Public and Government Affairs
Karen Bailey-Chapman is SEMA’s Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs, where she oversees all government affairs efforts for SEMA and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) and leads programs related to legislation, regulations, and government policies on issues affecting emission regulations, consumer choice, business opportunities, and more. Bailey-Chapman is passionate about exploring off-road spaces, often in her easily identifiable yellow Jeep, “Bananana.”
Sean P. Holman, Interim Executive Director
Sean P. Holman is a longtime automotive enthusiast and veteran off-road journalist who worked for Motor Trend Group for nearly 20 years, eventually overseeing content for the company’s Truck & Off-Road Group as its group content director. Holman is president of the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association, as well as co-creator and host of The Truck Show Podcast with Holman.
Laura Butcher, Legislative Director
Laura Butcher has worn many hats in the off-road community, including as owner/CEO of VORRA (Valley Off-Road Racing Association), program manager for Tread Lightly!, executive director of Farmy’s Off-Road Park, and board member for the Nevada Off-road Association. Butcher is a 2024 inductee in the Off-road Motorsports Hall of Fame, a testament to her lengthy career as an industry advocate and enthusiast.
GASTONIA, NC (03.25.26) – The 2026 Shiflet & Dickson 34th Annual Dealer Show ‘Cranked It Up’!. The event kicked off Saturday night at 7pm for the party with food and drinks at the Shiflet & Dickson location at 2480 Bessemer City Rd in Gastonia NC 28052. Live music and pork BBQ was on the menu plus time with manufacturer staff members, reps, fellow dealers and Shiflet & Dickson Team members David Holland, Dave, Chris, Lisa, Billie, Andy and Maureen. Over 50 dealers spent the night as guests in the local Hampton Saturday night.
Soon after the doors opened Sunday, there was activity on the shelf floor.
Sunday was show day that ran from 9AM until 5PM with over 40 brands represented. There was lunch on Sunday with delicious burgers and sides as the show ran from 9 AM until 5PM. The showroom was packed with vendor booths and well as demo vehicles and bikes outside along with special unveilings.
A very happy David Holland stated “This was our 34th Annual Dealer Show and our company’s 71st Anniversary… and it was TERRIFIC. Many dealers had not had the ability to go to a show recently to see the newest 12volt products. With vendor motorcycles, side by sides and pickups in the house we let our customers hear what these products sound like in a real world setting…. other than a YouTube video on a smartphone or laptop. The DB Drive Experience and KICKER Toyota righthand drive Lite Ace rig, with almost 100,000 watts on board, were standouts and dealers liked seeing Mike Colundjia, MC Sales, show the latest radios from Linkswell.”
”DB Drive unveiled company’s new DB Experience….a full showroom on wheels with live demos and product displays. In addition, Randy Goodwin and Leo Gonzalez showed new products and also selling profitability as a topic of discussions with dealers along with the new products.”
The Shiflet show is family oriented and Jeff Falk is showing new products to Luis Palomino and the family from Street Concept Car Audio in Charlotte.
Time for a little Sunday lunch.
DK Electronics again had 2 decked out demo bikes, featuring DB Drive and PowerBass gear, for live demos. T J Lee showcased the bike installations. The new PowerBass PBM amps, with Jeff Falk spotlighting the features of the small footprint amp on the PowerBass bike, was a hit with dealers.
The DB Drive Experience attracted attention from the outside, showed the latest products with demos on the inside and the big inflatable subwoofer moved a lot of air.
The KICKER Toyota righthand drive Lite Ace was Livin’Loud with nearly 100,000 watts on board.
“MAXPro, with Allison and Ricky Parker, always provide the latest on Window film and PPF offerings at Shiflet’s Spring Show. “We discussed our new films and really dug into the benefits of adding PPF with Shiflet’s dealers this year. Shiflet sells a good amount of architectural products for his dealers. Now is the time for the tinting season and in rural areas farmers can really benefit with film installed. Also PPF protection has shown to help retain the resale value of a vehicle” Allison Parker stated.
Allison and Ricky Gibson on site and Ricky is showing a dealer the MAXPro lineup.
“The Harley that TJ Lee put together at DK Electronics for the show really rocks loaded with PowerBass gear” Jeff Falk shouted out.
Concluding Holland stated “Our show was one again like having our large family come into our facility for a large get together. We also had many of our vendors that offered us special discounts before and after the show to make our dealers more profitable on their sales floors. We thank all of our extended family members for coming to the 34th Annual Dealer Show this past weekend. A huge thank you to our business partners also.”
Stay tuned for more from the 12volt Central Studios.
TORRANCE, CA (03.25.26) – Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc., a leading provider of aftermarket mobile electronics, is excited to announce the appointment of The Wholesale House as the exclusive distributor for the Wisconsin and Northern Illinois territories. The Wholesale House succeeds House Electronics after a long and valued partnership.
In addition to these exclusive territories, The Wholesale House has been assigned coverage for Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia. This transition reflects Pioneer’s commitment to strengthening market reach, efficiency, and the overall customer experience across the region. The Wholesale House will bring enhanced speed and robust dealer support to drive improved service levels.
Larry Rougas, Revenue & Growth Officer and Executive Vice President at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc., expressed enthusiasm about the newly minted relationship. “We are delighted to have assigned The Wholesale House to these important markets,” said Rougas. “Their dedication to speed, coverage, and high levels of dealer satisfaction will assist the Pioneer brand and undoubtedly improve the customer experience.”
Mark Yoder, President of The Wholesale, stated, “This is a tremendous opportunity for The Wholesale House. We appreciate the opportunity to better serve Pioneer in the territories we know so well.”
For inquiries, please email: info@twhouse.com or call 419-542-7739.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (03.25.26) – MASSIVE in power — BRUTUS BG amplifiers deliver the legendary Hifonics performance you expect — with a NEW built-in VU Meter and dual toroidal transformer PWM power supply. Get ready to raise your amplifier game through BRUTUS GAMMA innovation.
Hifonics BRUTUS BG amplifiers feature mass-loaded extruded aluminum heat sinks that result in better thermal management and output performance. In addition, every BRUTUS BG amplifier comes innovated with MOSFETS designed for higher output power gainsand fast thermal dissipation, making your audio cleaner and sharper.
HAVERHILL, MA (03.24.26) – The VOXX ‘Dash Cam Sold Here’ banner is sent to every dealer that orders the VOXX ADAS ACADC5 AI dash cam with Blindspot detection. The banner can be placed on a showroom wall, window or on an outside wall. The key is to create visibility to connect with consumers to create awareness for this important category.
Matt Herold, Trent Partners New England, was recently at Jonathan Maroun’s Security Sound Systems in Haverhill MA to conduct a training and snapped an image with Jonathan stretching out his store’s ‘Dash Cam Sold Here’ banner. After the snow cleared, Jonathan put the banner on the outside wall of his building to attract visibility to let consumers know about this very important category. “Jonathan and the crew really connect and inform their customers about products to make their time behind the wheel more enjoyable and safer with aftermaket upgrades.”
Jonathan Maroun stretches out the Dash Cam Sold Here banner in the showroom.
The new ADAS ACADC5 4K dash cam sets a new benchmark for advanced driver safety. Featuring both front and rear cameras with crystal clear recording, the system integrates LED and visual indicators to support its AI driven safety alerts. The ACADC5 provides forward collision, rear traffic and pedestrian warnings along with lane departure monitoring, a visual bumper and stop and go notification. Through the VOXX ADAS app, users can easily access and manage dash cam footage and storage.
Banners of the outside of the building highlighting products available inside.
“It’s super that VOXX has the ‘Dash Cam Sold Here’ program in place for retailers. In addition with reps in the field like Matt we stay up to date on the latest information from VOXX. We placed our ‘Dash Cam Sold Here’ banner high up on our building wall and have already had comments” Jonathan relayed.
The ‘Dash Cam Sold Here’ banner program is a perfect example of vendors, reps and dealers working together to connect with consumers.
SAWYER, MI (03.24.26) – The Mobile Electronics Competition Association (MECA) recently concluded a high-impact judge training session in Sawyer MI reinforcing its commitment to technical precision and industry-wide collaboration.
Bud and Shannon Ballinger conducting the MECA Judges trading.
Commitment to Consistency A group of nine dedicated participants attended the session, including new recruits entering the judging ranks and veteran officials completing their biennial updates. The primary objective of the training was to ensure consistent judging standards across the organization, a vital component in maintaining MECA’s reputation for fair and accurate competitive evaluation.
Industry Support & Team Building In a show of industry solidarity, Brett Barnes of Prodigy Audio was in attendance to support the MECA team. Barnes’ participation focused on team building and leadership, bridging the gap between manufacturer expertise and competitive officiating. His involvement underscores the importance of a unified industry front in elevating the car audio experience for competitors and fans alike.
The “MECA Family” Atmosphere Highlighting the community-driven spirit of the organization, the training was hosted by Bud and Shannon Ballinger. To promote a collaborative and relaxed environment, the Ballingers hosted the event in a local Airbnb rather than a traditional classroom. This unique setting was chosen to foster the “MECA family” atmosphere, encouraging mentorship and a shared passion for mobile electronics.
Consistency is the heartbeat of what we do,” said a MECA representative. “By bringing our judges together with industry leaders like Brett Barnes in a setting that feels like home, we ensure they are not just learning the rules, but also the culture of integrity and family that MECA stands for.”
For more information on upcoming events or to learn how to get involved, visit www.mecacaraudio.com
DIAMOND BAR, CA (03.24.26) – The SEMA Show has officially issued the “First Call” for automotive aftermarket manufacturers aiming to secure their footprint at the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nev. Companies looking to take advantage of Priority Space Selection should submit their exhibitor applications by the March 27, 2026, deadline.
The SEMA Show remains the premier global event for automotive aftermarket, and the Priority Space Selection process is the best way for exhibitors to influence their specific location on the floor plan. With more than 153,000 attendees, 2,600 media and content creators, and 70,000 buyers and decision-makers expected to attend in 2026, the demand for high-visibility real estate is expected to be at an all-time high.
“The SEMA Show floor is more than just an exhibit space; it’s a strategic asset for brands,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice president of Events. “Submitting by the March 27 deadline ensures that our partners have the best opportunity to position themselves in front of the global buyers and media that define this industry.”
Why the March 27 Deadline Matters:
Priority Ranking: Applications received by this date are assigned a selection time based on seniority points.
Strategic Positioning: Early applicants get first pick of hall placement, corner spots, and high-traffic corridors.
Integrated Marketing: Early registrants gain immediate access to SEMA’s promotional tools and pre-Show media opportunities.
Following the March 27 priority deadline, the space selection process will begin. While the SEMA Show will continue to accept applications after this date, those submitted by the deadline are guaranteed a position in the initial selection queue to secure their preferred location on the 2026 Show floor.
SENOIA, GA (03.23.26) – The adrenaline-packed action with the thunderous roar of Flat Track motorcycle racing returned to Senoia Raceway in Senoia GA on Saturday, March 21. This was Round 3 of the 2026 Progressive Flat Track Championship for the nation’s top riders go for glory on the legendary clay oval.
Action on the track in the afternoon.
Action on the track at night
Whole families enjoyed a full day of thrills and entertainment featuring live music, Kid zone, giant video screens for unbeatable views, vendor midway plus a wide variety of food and beverage options. KICKER was Livin’Loud trackside, and through announcers spotlighting KICKER products through the event.
KICKER had a booth showcase in their products close to the entrance.
KICKER KMTC Tower Speakers broadcast event action to the audience and pits.
Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media, was trackside with a large KICKER display area near the front entrance. Morrell stated “Action in the booth was very strong throughout the day. In the local area there are many bikers and the season is ramping up as KICKER is providing more products for bikes than ever. Also in the rural area there are so many truck on the road and KICKER has a wide variety of products for trucks…Marine too with lakes in the area. The stands were very close to being sold out plus the demographic of attendees was a perfect opportunity for experiencing KICKER’s wide variety of products.”
The stands were full and midway vendors offered many options for fans.
The next Flat Track event is the Ventura Short Track in Venture CA Saturday April 25th.
MESA, AZ (03.23.26) –The MasterTech Expo 2026 once again proved why it is the premier hands-on event for aftermarket fabrication, installation professionals, and shop owners. With more than 40 educational sessions, high-energy live competitions, and attendees representing 15 countries across six continents, this year’s event, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., set a new benchmark for innovation, craftsmanship, and community.
“From intensive training workshops to nonstop networking and live demos, the 2026 expo brought together the industry’s top fabricators, technicians, and manufacturers for a weekend focused on advancing skill sets and pushing creative boundaries,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder of MasterTech Expo and CEO, founder, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This year’s revamped Build-Off format and elevated competition structure drove massive engagement both on the show floor and across social media. The combination of real-time fabrication, expert-level execution, and audience interaction created a dynamic environment unlike anything else in the industry.”
Standout Competitions Take Center Stage
Two major competitions captured the attention of attendees and dominated social media conversations throughout the weekend.
The MasterTech Build-Off headline event featured a high-stakes live fabrication battle sponsored by Rockford Fosgate. Two teams of three competed over sever total hours (3.5 hours per day) to design and build a fully finished subwoofer enclosure, complete with trim panels, lighting, and fine installation details.
Massive HD screens broadcast every cut, adjustment, and design decision, creating an immersive, high-adrenaline experience for spectators. Hats off to both the Red and Silver teams—true brotherhood was formed. With an incredibly close margin in voting, the Silver Team took home the top honor.
Special recognition goes to Dalton Trainer, Austin Moore, and Chris Britton—all under 32, representing the next generation of elite fabricators making a serious impact on the industry.
Over two days, eight competitors for the Clean Wire Challenge were tasked with building a fully customized amp rack in just 3.5 hours, using materials and equipment supplied onsite by leading manufacturers, including Stinger and SoundsGoodStereo.com. The completed builds were displayed for attendee voting, showcasing precision wiring, creative layouts, and execution at the highest level.
2026 Winner: Pablo Cruz
Industry Awards Recognize Excellence
The expo celebrated outstanding achievements across the industry: • Clean Wire Tech: Isai Hernandez • Fabricator of the Year: Dave Koz, Titan Motoring (Nashville, Tenn.)
Recognized for advanced, high-end builds and integration of 3D modeling techniques. • Lifetime Achievement Award: Andy Wehmeyer, President of AudioFrog
Honored for decades of influence, including 17 years at Harman and leadership as one of the industry’s foremost DSP experts. • Best Sounding Vehicle 2026: Orca Design & Manufacturing, built by Sage Weir (Sounds Good Stereo, Mt. Juliet, Tenn.)
Honorable Mention — third-time award recipient • Best Training Experience: MSC • Best Booth Experience: MSC
Global Reach and Industry Impact
MasterTech Expo 2026 welcomed distributors and dealers from around the world, including: United States · Canada · Mexico · Puerto Rico · Peru · Germany · Italy · United Kingdom · South Africa · Taiwan · The Philippines · Malaysia · Singapore · Australia · New Zealand
This international presence continues to reinforce the expo’s role as a global hubfor knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collaboration.
A New Standard for Live Experience
The Clean Wire Challenge further highlighted the importance of precision and craftsmanship, delivering continuous inspiration for technicians at every level.
Looking Ahead
With record energy, growing international attendance, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, MasterTech Expo continues to raise the bar for what an industry event can deliver.
12VoltNews.com 