The 12VoltSTP Tool Worked the SEMA Show 2021

Posted on November 17, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

SHREVEPORT, LA (10.15.2021) – The SEMA Show 2021 drew an in-person attendance of over a reported 100,000. Seeing exhibitors showing their latest products to industry members was terrific.The 12volt Central Studios provided press for a number of exhibitors leading up to SEMA 2021 and added more visibility for exhibitors from the SEMA Show floor. The 12voltSTP Tool provided an easy way for a number of exhibitors to showcase their SEMA booth activities across the 12volt industry.

Jose Diaz with a new Beyma subwoofer in the company’s North Hall booth.

Braille Battery was in the Central Hall at SEMA.

Posts from SEMA 2021 are approaching 100… .#12vnn_sema2021 on Instagram.

Nakamichi, Hertz, Beyma, Fair Interamerican, Braille Battery, Hushmat, Sony, Audiopipe and AudioControl, along with retailers and reps utilized the 12voltSTP Tool to showcase their new products and activities to thousands of the 12volt industry members that did not attend SEMA 2021.

Audio Solutions 49 is on a roll in Florence MS but Wayne saw the need to attend his 11th SEMA Show.

The AudioKing crew traveled from Yakima, WA to see the latest from AudioControl.

Proactive companies that exhibited at SEMA can still showcase their activities from the SEMA Show floor. Bob Ahuja, Stealth Batteries, said “I have some images from the booth on my phone. I would like to extend the ROI on my SEMA investment and will send a few booth images.”

In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios, work to deliver positive industry news each business day. Creating the 12voltSTP Tool is another example of making it easy for industry members to put their company’s brand and activities in front of members of the 12volt industry. Snap..Txt..Presto.. your company’s positive news could be in the news. 318 465 0844 is the number.

With the advent of social media Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles for information and news delivery. The fact remains people need still, and look forward to, receiving news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

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.

Richard Fairest invited all to check out their latest products in the North Hall.

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. It’s the 12volt Central Studios 6 Pack. Check out the 12Volt 6-Pack as The 12volt Central Studios will work to make 6 social media posts each business day delivering fresh positive news the 12volt industry.

Always more at 12voltnews.com plus @12voltnews on Instagram and Facebook.

Stealth Energy Launches Lithium Battery Line at SEMA

Posted on November 17, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.18.2021) – Stealth Energy, a manufacturer and distributor of high-performance batteries located in Cleveland, Ohio, launched a new line of lithium batteries designed for competition car audio at SEMA in Las Vegas. The battery manufacturer is an American Bass Audio company a leading car audio brand for over three decades.

The batteries LT-40 and LT-80 unveiled by Stealth Energy are Lithium-Titanate-Oxide (LTO) batteries. LTO batteries are known for their high levels of safety and fast recharge and discharge capabilities relative to a traditional lithium-ion battery which makes LTO the perfect battery chemistry for car audio.

Bob Ahuja in the Stealth Energy booth in the North Hall at SEMA.

Bob Ahuja, co-founder of Stealth Energy commented, “Lithium batteries are increasingly affordable, and they are significantly lighter and more powerful than traditional AGM batteries that are commonly used to power car audio builds for serious competitors.”

Ahuja concluded, “We believe that lithium batteries will one day become the battery of choice for car audio enthusiasts, and we have spent months designing and testing the perfect lithium solution for these customers. I am confident that Stealth Energy will be the battery of choice for car audio customers across the United States.”

Stealth Energy lithium battery solutions while designed for car audio also have applications for transportation, clean energy, medical, industrial and grid-connected products.

Bob AhujaAmerican Bass USA
Tel: 440-248-5858
Fax : 440-248-6022
bob@americanbassusa.com

Visit stealth-energy.com for more.

SEMA Opens Applications for Speakers of 2022 Education Program

Posted on November 17, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.18.2021) – As part of SEMA’s initiative to provide live and virtual education to the automotive specialty equipment industry, SEMA is issuing a call for speakers for the 2022 SEMA Show and the association’s year-round virtual education program.

Available at www.sema.org/speakers, applications are open to innovative thinkers, industry experts, and dynamic presenters who can share ideas, technologies, and expertise with the industry.

The education program is specific to industry professionals in the automotive aftermarket and its related niche-specific segments. The year-round virtual program, which saw thousands of SEMA members participating since its debut in January 2021, provides thought-provoking, forward-thinking webinars that help participants take their businesses and careers to the next level. Likewise, educational seminars are an essential component of the SEMA Show where industry professionals come to network in person and learn new business strategies.

SEMA is issuing a call for speakers for the 2022 SEMA Show and the association’s year-round virtual education program.

Topics of interest for 2022 include:
Aftermarket Updates and Future Trends
Digital Marketing
Automotive Electronics
Legal & Regulatory
Small-Business Strategy
Electric Vehicles
Vehicle Technology
Leadership
Business Management

Speaker proposals for the 2022 SEMA Show must be submitted by Jan. 7, 2022. Virtual education proposals can be submitted at any time throughout the year. Submit a proposal today at www.sema.org/speakers. Suggestions for topics and/or speakers are also encouraged and can be submitted at http://www.sema.org/sessiontopics.

For more details, contact Gary Vigil, SEMA sr. manager of professional development, at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.

Specialty-Equipment Industry Remains Strong Amid Supply-Chain Disruptions

Posted on November 16, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.17.2021) – Despite ongoing disruptions in the economy, 70% of specialty-equipment manufacturers report sales growth over the past year, according to the new State of the Industry—Fall 2021 report from SEMA.

The report highlights specialty-equipment market trends, including sales performance and expectations, broader economic factors that are affecting the industry, and a future outlook on the role that emerging vehicle technologies may play.

Supply-chain disruptions are affecting the automotive sector, and new-vehicle production is expected to be 7.7 million units lower in 2021 than 2020—tempering the specialty-equipment industry’s optimism regarding its short-term prospects. However, most businesses are maintaining a positive outlook, with more than 80% expecting their sales to be stable or growing over the coming year.

The latest edition of SEMA’s State of the Industry report series found that 70% of specialty-equipment manufacturers experienced sales growth over the past year.

The latest edition of SEMA’s ongoing State of the Industry report series offers 70 pages of data on the specialty-equipment industry to help companies understand how the market is performing and evolving. Key findings from the report include:
Delays in shipping and the ongoing microchip shortage have left automakers unable to keep up with consumer demand for new vehicles, pushing dealer inventories to all-time lows and the average price of a new vehicle to an unprecedented $45,000 in September 2021.

While some businesses struggled during the beginning of the pandemic last year, especially retailers, most were able to adjust. Manufacturers in particular have done well, reporting an average of 19% sales growth over the past 12 months.
Sales in the pickup, sports car, SUV, and classic vehicle segments continue to be strong, with many businesses once again seeing double-digit sales growth this year.

Supply-chain disruptions are starting to create some uncertainty. In the spring of 2021, 70% of specialty-equipment manufacturers and 75% of distributors expected their sales to grow over the coming year. However, those percentages have fallen to 58% and 52% respectively.

The temporary shifts towards online sales that were made necessary by the pandemic are continuing to reverse, with the majority of specialty-equipment parts sales once again flowing through in-person retail channels.
In the longer term, vehicle manufacturers’ plans to develop and sell more electric vehicles will require the specialty-equipment industry to plan for and adapt to these changes in the vehicle population.

For more data on the state of U.S. specialty-equipment market, download the SEMA State of the Industry—Fall 2021 report for free today at www.sema.org/research.

Tint World Continues Southern Expansion with Second Louisiana Location

Posted on November 16, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Tint World.

SLIDELL, LA (11.17.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, announces the opening of a new location in Slidell, Louisiana, under the ownership of Johnnie Brown.

“We are excited that we can bring another great franchise like Tint World into the state of Louisiana,” Brown said. “Tint World provides franchisees with an exceptional level of support and the tools we need to prosper and grow. I’m passionate about the quality of automotive styling services we provide and the innovative products we will offer the people of Slidell.”

Brown and the crew at Tint World Slidell offer the latest in ultra-premium window tint, automotive aftermarket accessories, expert installation, and a top-notch staff of highly experienced installers and technicians.

“Johnnie is an excellent representative of the Tint World family,” said Charles Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “He is passionate about expanding the brand’s service options in Louisiana and is focused on building his location in a way that supports his community. Johnnie’s drive is going to lead to a great deal of success for him and Tint World.”

The newest location is open from Monday through Saturday and is located in St. Tammany Parish at 720 E 1-10 Service Road. For more information, call (504) 766-3400 or visit their website at https://www.tintworld.com/locations/la/slidell-114

Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing Awarded with Nakamichi “Rookie of The Year” Award

Posted on November 16, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Rock-N-Rev.

PAPILLON, NE (11.17.2021) – Nakamichi has awarded their “Rookie Of The Year” Award to Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing.

Jeff (Boody) Budin of Rock-N-Rev gets a surprise in the mail.

“My dealers in the MINKS states are loving the Nakamichi line up,” commented Jeff (Boody) Budin of Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing. “Nothing like having a MAP Protected line with good margins.I’m honored to receive this award! A big Thank You to Robin and the rest of the team at Nakamichi.”

For more information on Nakamichi availability in the MINKS states, contact ROCK-N-REV SALES & MARKETING at rocknrevsales@gmail.com

JVC Mobile Entertainment Goes Off-Road

Posted on November 15, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged JVC Mobile.

LONG BEACH, CA (11.16.2021) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is excited to announce it is now shipping its IP67/IP66 Waterproof/Dustproof KS-DR2004D ($249.95 MAP) 4-Channel Compact Digital Amplifier.

The KS-DR2004D produces a conservatively-rated 50 Watts x 4 RMS at 4-Ohm, 75 Watts x 4 RMS at 2-Ohm, 150 Watts x 2 RMS at 4-Ohm, or 75 Watts x 2 + 150 Watts x 1 at 4-Ohm. It offers about every adjustment anyone could ask for behind its removable waterproof/dustproof panel; input sensitivity 4-12V (speaker level) 0.2-5V (RCA level), selectable/variable HPF/LPF (50-200Hz, -12dB/octave), 2ch or 4ch input mode selection, and 2ch or 3-4ch output mode selection. Engineered with installation flexibility in mind, this amplifier features channel mode selectors and signal sensing turn-on capabilities.

Besides the incredible amount of power for its size and ease of installation, what truly sets this amplifier apart is its strong weather protection performance. Its QUAD-proof protection incorporates certification at IPX7/IPX6 for water and dust, ASTM117 salt-spray testing for rust, and 3-axis multi-frequency testing for vibration. Its sealed cast aluminum chassis has silicon seals along with stainless steel bottom plate assembly screws. Connections include pigtail cables with molded strain relief bushings and an in-line fuse (40A) with a rubber cover.

The amplifier’s efficient and Class D design allows installation in the most demanding of environments, making it perfect for UTVs, ATVs, watercraft, motorcycles, golf carts, classic cars, and MORE! Mud, Sand, Dirt, Rocks, or Water, the KS-DR2004D is BUILT TO LAST!

“JVC Mobile Entertainment is the 1-stop solution for all of your on and off-road vehicle sound needs,” said Ron Trout, Director of JVC Mobile Entertainment Sales. ”We’ve listened to what is being asked for in the market, and with its full weather-proof design, our engineering team truly knocked it out of the park with this one.”

KS-DR2004D web page: http://www.us.jvc.com/car/marinemotorsports/ks_dr2004d/

For more information on JVC Mobile Entertainment, visit http://www.us.jvc.com/car.

Carbine Remote Starts Going Strong with Rock-N-Rev

Posted on November 15, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Rock-N-Rev.

PAPILLON, NE (11.16.2021) – “The response to CARBINE Remote Starts and Alarm has been strong in the MINKS territory,” stated Rock-N-Rev Sales rep Jeff (Boody) Budin. “We got good inventory and it’s on an installation platform that all shops should recognize.”

Boody (at left) pictured with Heartland Audio owner Kevin Banaszak (middle) and manager Chris Burroughs.

Armando Parra of Carbine Retail and Silencer brands commented, “Our Carbine Retail and Silencer Distribution Security and Remote start solutions add value beyond a name brand. Jeff Budin at Roc N Rev and his retail and Distribution partners understand what it means to Welcome in and grasp “Change.” And I know this— dealers across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas embrace change, and they always lead and support that next great thing.”

Visit boodysgarage.com and carbine.com for more.

Retro Manufacturing Introduces the Denver Radio

Posted on November 15, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Retro Manufacturing.

HENDERSON, NV (11.16.2021) – Retro Manufacturing has created a new radio for classic 60s vehicles like the International Scout that had smaller dash openings than the RetroRadio can accommodate. The Denver was designed to be similar to the RetroRadio but have a smaller nose at just 3.5” wide by 1.5” tall adding hundreds of 60s classic vehicle fitments to the robust RetroSound line-up. Classic car enthusiasts with 60s-70s GM, Chevrolet, International, and import vehicles can now seamlessly add modern sound to their classics without cutting or altering the original dash. The Denver is available in black or chrome with sleek rounded edges and classic push-buttons for a truly authentic look and feel.

The Denver Radio was the Runner Up for the Best New Interior Accessory at SEMA 2021. The Denver is shown with the Runner Up Ribbon in the New Product Showcase display.

The Denver is compatible with all RetroSound Radio Motors giving classic car fans all the features of a modern car stereo. Available features include built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calls and audio streaming, Made for iPod/iPhone compatibility, USB inputs for flash drives and media devices, and non-volatile memory. A 32,000 color digital display gives users the option to customize the display color to match their gauges and browse through media by artist, song title, or album. The Denver has a selectable AM/FM Tuner allowing the user to select between USA, EUR, AUS, JAP, and RUS turner frequencies with 30 pre-sets to store favorite stations.

A powerful 300-watt built-in amplifier provides plenty of power over 4 channels along with RCA pre-outs and a subwoofer output for customers looking to expand their audio system further. The Denver is available with SiriusXM, connecting directly to an SXV300V1 Connect Vehicle Tuner (sold separately) without the need for special adapters or cables. The SXV300V1 tuner adds SiriusXM broadcasts to your RetroSound radio with artist, channel, and song information shown directly on the radios display. The Denver is also available with HD Radio technology and DAB+ for superior radio reception.

MSRP on the Denver starts at $199.99 and will be available early 2022 at www.retromanufacturing.com.

The SEMA Show 2021 Plus Highlighting Five Retailers at SEMA 2021

Posted on November 14, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged SEMA Show.

SHREVEPORT, LA (11.15.2021) – The SEMA Show 2021’s 4-Day run, November 2-5, was certainly unlike others in recent memory. The world, along with the 12volt industry, is approaching 2 years since the COVID 19 Pandemic turned most things upside down.

Current conditions certainly impacted SEMA 2021 as major brands choose not to exhibit. Thus many retailers, without their top brands exhibiting, made the decisions to skid SEMA 2021. Business across the 12volt retail industry has been strong in spite of many companies dealing with staff shortages. Overall product shortages is on the minds of all across the 12volt industry.

The new West Hall offers 1.400,000 sq ft of exhibit space.

Let’s not forget travel nightmares and mask mandates.

With all of the above, SEMA 2021 was reported to be the largest automotive aftermarket trade show in the last 2 years with over 100,000 in attendance. The 12volt portion of the North Hall has been declining over recent years and that decline, affected by conditions noted above, continued in 2021. In addition, the new West Hall opened with 1,400,000 square feet of exhibit space. Obviously, when the size of the dance hall increases and the number of dancers stays close to the same, the floor and aisles will be less crowded.

Team Nutz crew members Ed Nuttall, Mike Grosnick and Ben Bjerke (LtoR) by the Nakamichi North Hall booth they helped set up after flight cancellations from Miami delayed Nakamichi staff.

Let’s highlight 5 12volt retailers who looked at the big long term picture and chose to attend SEMA 2021.

Team Nutz, Pittsburgh PA, was in Vegas for the entire event with staff of 3. Owner Ed Nuttall, Ben Bjerke and Mike Gosnick flew to Vegas on Sunday with a solid plan for the week that included over seeing the presentation of the All Ways Safe Flag Truck project they completed. The vehicle was loaded with Memphis Audio products and was showcased in the Feature Vehicle area at SEMA. Also in their plan was to see other businesses in Vegas and network to the hilt. As it turned out they lended a big hand to setting up the new Nakamichi booth in the North Hall. Many flights were cancelled out of Miami which delayed the arrival of Nakamichi staff members.

ST Mobile Audio at the airport headed Vegas to see their project in the Memphis Audio booth. Shanda and Michael Stewart in the foreground with Hanna and Josh Hover.

Team Nutz also contributed a large number of images and info for coverage from the 12volt Central Studios. A big Thank You to Team Nutz.

ST Mobile Audio traveled from Texarkana TX with owner Mike Stewart and his wife Shanda. Josh Hover and wife Hanna also made the trip. ST Mobile Audio is widely known across several states for creative work in the PowerSports category. To that end ST Mobile Audio completed an amazing 2021 RZR Turbo S Crew that was spotlighted in the Memphis Audio North Hall booth. A Memphis MOJO enclosure was needed to climb into the driver’s seat. Also, a big Thank You to Michael Stewart for sending images and observations from the SEMA floor. The Tesla Tunnel too!

Wayne and Tina Holton in a hall at SEMA ready to check out thousands of new products.

Wayne Holton, with wife Tina, traveled from the Jackson MS area to attend SEMA. “This was my 11th SEMA Show and I could not miss attending. Our Audio Solutions 49 business is very strong and my new ground up build new store is rocking. In addition, our PowerSports store is going strong. That said, I could not miss SEMA 2021.”

Cody Landis-(R) Code Zero Customs with West Coast Customs founder Ryan Friedlinghaus at SEMA 2021.

Cody Landis, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, related “This was my first SEMA and I am so glad I went. We had 2 vehicles on site displayed by companies that we created. Seeing them on display in Vegas was amazing. In addition I was able to meet Ryan Friedlinghaus the Founder of West Coast Customs. I watched him on TV and he was definitely an important factor of my decision to make a career in the 12volt industry.”

AudioKing from Yakima WA attended SEMA 2021 with their entire crew. Seeing a post of them, all with a big Thumbs Up, in the AudioControl booth with Matt Palumbo was a very nice surprise to see on Instagram.