Kingpin University Unveils Kingpin Fab Products Brand at SEMA

Posted on November 14, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Kingpin University.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.15.2021) – Kingpin University (KPU) launched a new brand to distinguish its fabrication materials from its professional installer training. Kingpin Fab Products comprises the company’s templates, router bits, hand tools, fabrication aids and consumables. The new line debuted at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in the Cerwin-Vega / Diamond Audio booth.

The newest additions to the Kingpin Fab Products line include the second-generation Clean Wire System, which helps technicians highlight connectivity alongside creative amplifier and component layouts. The Router Shield System protects hands and deflects debris when using a router and features three sizes to match any project. In addition, the Kingpin Fab Products filler line consists of two versions—Create and Levitate – to give fabricators versatility in sculpting strength and finish. Additional products will be announced in the coming months.

“We’d like to thank Diamond Audio / Cerwin-Vega for giving us space in their booth to showcase and announce our launch,” said Jason Kranitz, president of Kingpin University and its accompanying retail store Kingpin Car and Marine Audio. “With the growth of our product line, we felt the timing was right to give our products branding that is separate from our training services. It also gives us the ability to market the product line beyond the mobile electronics industry. SEMA, despite lower overall attendance, was a great show for us and was the perfect kick-off for the new line.”

Kingpin Fab Products will soon receive its own website at kingpinfabproducts.com, where retailers will be able to place orders at wholesale pricing.

For more information on Kingpin University or Kingpin Fab Products, visit kingpinuniversity.com.

Tint World Names Brian Licata Digital Media Manager

Posted on November 14, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Tint World.

BOCA RATON, FL (11.15.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has named Brian Licata as the company’s Digital Media Manager. In his new role, Licata will spearhead Tint World’s online efforts to extend its reach and brand awareness.

“As the Tint World franchise continues to grow, it’s more important than ever that we have a strong online presence,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “Brian’s media experience is exceptional, and I know he will deliver the high level of performance that we strive for at Tint World, as he widens our digital footprint.”

As Digital Media Manager, Licata oversees, manages, and edits video production and online content for Tint World.

Before joining Tint World, Licata served as a producer, podcaster, and editor for a variety of programming ranging from comedy specials to documentaries.

“Tint World already has an incredible online presence, unmatched by any other franchise within the industry,” Licata said “This is a great opportunity, and I’m excited to help take this brand to the next level.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Star Car Audio Wins NavAtlas Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 153

Posted on November 13, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

SHREVEPORT LA (11.13.21) WTF…Win This Friday. Star Car Audio won the NavAtlas prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, November 12th.

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Ten months ago we celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 153rd time on Friday morning November 12th. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space. The Star Car Audio slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted.

We reached out by phone and talked with Miguel at the store in Hermiston OR. He had already seen the Instagram post was very happy to hear a NavAtlas prize would be heading their way. Miguel said business is rockin’ for their store.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, Silencer, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and Magnadyne. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX and Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA and Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, November 19th.

SEMA Show Concludes as Largest North American Trade Show Since the Pandemic

Posted on November 11, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged SEMA Show.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.12.2021) – SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) , the trade association representing the $47.8 billion automotive specialty equipment industry, concluded its annual SEMA Show on Friday, Nov. 5, noting the end of the Show represented the successful conclusion of the largest North American automotive trade show since the pandemic shut everything down in 2020.

“The industry was clearly excited to be back in-person at the SEMA Show, both to capture business opportunities and to network and celebrate the world’s greatest collection of innovation on wheels,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “Our industry was waiting to reconnect, and the SEMA Show was a welcome homecoming after nearly two years apart.”

More than 100,000 attendees, exhibitors, and media participated in the first full-facility event at the Las Vegas Convention Center, which includes 4.6 million square feet of convention space and an additional 2.2 million square feet of outdoor space.

“We were excited to see our old friends and colleagues after being apart for so long,” said Kathryn Reinhardt, director of retail marketing, 4 Wheel Parts. “We did a lot of business at this year’s SEMA Show. It was clear that our industry was ready to meet and had two years of innovations to show off.”

This sema_photos @sinnersratrod was an example of the amazing vehicles on the SEMA Show 2021 event floor.

As the first, large automotive trade show in North America since the pandemic, automotive manufacturers launched new vehicles, celebrities unveiled high-profile restyles, and exhibitors showed off their latest innovations. Celebrities and their vehicles were out in force at the SEMA Show, including Ant Anstead, host of Celebrity IOU: Joyride , showcasing a custom 1962 Buick that has been converted into an electric car in collaboration with American actor James Marsden. Comedian Jay Leno helped unveil a 1969 Ford Mustang restoration for singer Keith Urban in the Ford exhibit, and actor Sung Kang unveiled his Datsun 240z “Safari” in the Nissan booth. Not to be outdone, Toyota introduced its “TacoZilla” Tacoma truck camper, Chevy brought its “Chevy Beast” (a concept vision of the ultimate in high-performance desert running), Mopar debuted two customized concept trucks, and Lexus had the North American show premier of the new LXF Sport at the SEMA Show.

Crowds gathered outside to see and smell burning rubber.

The trade-only show brought manufacturers and buyers back together to experience the latest vehicle customization innovations to bring to customers in 2022.

Trending at this year’s SEMA Show was electrification and electrified vehicles. Whether it was a modification for a new electric vehicle (EV) or the ability to modify an ICE vehicle with a new electric motor, exhibitors and builders demonstrated that the EV market is a growing segment for the aftermarket. A new area inside the SEMA Show, SEMA Electrified, included electric vehicles and products designed for modifying electric vehicles or converting vehicles to electric power.

“Our industry has embraced electrification,” said Tom Gattuso, vice president of events, SEMA “We saw electric vehicles and electrified vehicles in every hall at the SEMA Show. Our industry is on the cutting edge of technology. Products you see at the SEMA Show often become standard and mainstream five to 10 years after it debuts at the Show.”

Other SEMA Show highlights included the largest collection of Chip Foose-built vehicles featured in a special corral that highlighted some of the most influential and important vehicles created at Foose Design, a display of over 50 off-road racing vehicles ranging from motorcycles to trophy trucks in SCORE’s Baja 1000 Experience, an exclusive West Coast Customs Edition wide body kit on a Dodge Charger and a Dodge Challenger in the West Coast Customs Experience, and interactive driving demos in the Hoonigan Burnyard Bash and the Ford Out Front experience.

For more information about the Nov. 2-5, 2021, SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.

MB Quart’s Polaris Ranger Stage Kit Wins SEMA Global Media Award

Posted on November 11, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged MB Quart, Polaris, SEMA Show.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (11.12.2021) – MB Quart adds another award to their rich history of audio innovation with the 2021 SEMA Global Media Award. Showcased at the 2021 SEMA Show and ALL-NEW for 2021, the Polaris RANGER Stage Kits received top-tier recognition for their crisp and sharp audio while taking outdoor adventures to a whole new LOUD level of listening.

Powersport Regional Sales Manager John Driscoll receiving MB Quart’s award

Featuring compatible vehicle fitment, marine-grade protection/IPX-rating, and an included mount and harness, every MB Quart Polaris RANGER Stage Kit delivers easy installation so embarking on adventures can be obtained faster than ever. Polaris RANGER Stage Kits create an immersive listening experience heard from miles away couple with undistorted levels of listening – all within your Polaris RANGER vehicle (2018 and newer models).

The SEMA Global Media Award consists of a voting panel that reviewed nearly 3,000 new products featured at the 2021 SEMA Show. Each journalist selected ten products of most interest to their publications’ readers and likely to succeed commercially. The Global Media Award program is now in its 17th year, and it helps SEMA Show exhibitors identify business opportunities in emerging international marks while building connections that help expand their market reach.

Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics USA, commented, “This award and honorable recognition was made only possible by the collaboration and dedicated teamwork from the numerous departments and teams across the entire company of Maxxsonics USA. Being awarded this recognition is a testament of every team member at Maxxsonics USA, and I am excited for what the future holds for us in 2022.”

The SEMA Global Media Awards Program recognizes the growth of automotive personalization and customization throughout the world. See complete line details of the ALL-NEW MB Quart Polaris RANGER Stage Kits on the MB Quart website at mbquart.com.

Chuck Kenney Onboard at DS18

Posted on November 11, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged DS18.

MIAMI GARDENS, FL (11.12.2021) – Chuck Kenney has joined the DS18 Team and recently relocated to South Florida. With a 30+ year career in the 12volt industry Kenney brings a new dimension to the DS18 sales team.

Chuck Kenney pictured by Mr. DS 18’s Exotica that is seen at events across the Southeastern US and beyond.

“Job description number one at DS18 is to reach out to contacts, dealers and distributors, across the industry to let them know the tremendous product lineup DS18 has in place and the opportunities DS18 offers in the marketplace,” Kenney stated.

“We are happy to add Chuck to our growing team. He brings years of experience and connections in our industry which will push DS18 to even newer achievements,” stated Sasha Susterman, DS18 General Manager.

Chuck Kenney is pictured with a new DS18 PRO-TWX4 Tweeter in his Miami Gardens office.

Continuing, Kenney offered, “Already I see the presence DS18 has across the industry. The energetic Team, with Mr DS18 Rob Ferro out front, seems to be everywhere. Also, the company is expanding the product mix of innovative and forward thinking in marine and powersports while also introducing new products for the traditional car audio market. I am excited and look forward to hitting the road. In fact I plan to be in the Texas and Oklahoma markets in Mid-November.”

Most recently Kenney was National Sales Manager for Massive Audio. Design Engineering, SSR Distributors and Soundstream positions are included in Kenney’s resume.

Contact Chuck at 214 587 7603 or email chuck@ds18.com

Oracle Lighting Awarded SEMA 2021 Manufacturer of the Year

Posted on November 10, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged Oracle Lighting, SEMA.

METAIRE, LA (11.11.2021) – Oracle Lighting is proud to announce that it won SEMA’s 2021 Manufacturer of the Year award. The SEMA Industry Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the specialty-equipment industry. Winners were announced and recognized during the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, Thursday, November 4 at The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev. The Awards Gala was hosted by Adam Ferrara and the dance group Light Balance provided entertainment to add to the evening’s festivities.

Shown here after the ceremony are (L-R) John Mitchell (Oracle Lighting Sales Representative), Chris Kersting (SEMA President and CEO), Tiffanie Hartenstein (Oracle Lighting CEO), Justin Hartenstein (Oracle Lighting Director of Product Development), Danny Talbot (Oracle Lighting Sales Representative), and Melissa Parker-Boudreaux (Oracle Lighting National Sales Manager).

“We are honored and humbled to receive this year’s Manufacturer of the Year award as this is a testament to the incredible team we have at Oracle Lighting,” said Tiffanie Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting Chief Executive Officer. “We drive the innovation process every day, and putting people first in our culture while having a good time at what we are doing brings a high vibe energy to our company that helps fuel our passion.”

One of just three awards that the SEMA organization presents at the annual awards gala, the SEMA Manufacturer of the Year Award recipient meets rigorous criteria, including demonstrating outstanding business practices, establishing innovative processes and products, investing in the well-being of employees, exhibiting a high degree of corporate responsibility, protecting company brand equity, and providing exceptional customer service to customers.

During the 2021 SEMA Show, Oracle Lighting displayed new innovative products to the several thousand show attendees. More than a dozen new products were on display in Oracle’s booth and new innovations were also exhibited in SEMA’s New Product Showcase.

In 2021, Oracle Lighting was also ranked as the third fastest growing company in the entire metro New Orleans area, with a three-year growth rate of 56 percent, according to New Orleans CityBusiness magazine.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

Nakamichi Presents Awards at Annual Rep Meeting

Posted on November 10, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Nakamichi.

LAS VEGAS, NV(11.11.2021) – Nakamichi used the setting of the 2021 SEMA Show to hold an annual manufactures rep meeting after skipping a year due to travel restrictions. The meeting consisted of a dinner at Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, a recap of current and new products, sales outlook and the presentation of several rep awards.

Robin McNeal conducting the introductions portion of the rep sales meeting at the Gordon Biersch Brewing Company.

Plaques were presented to the following rep firms:

Rep of the Year: Advanced Marketing

Rookie Rep of the Year: Rock-N-Rev Sales

Trailblazer Award: Alan Wojtas Associates

Rep of the Year, Bruce Gilsdorf-Advanced Marketing (R) and Trailblazer Award winner Alan Wojtas-Alan Wojtas Associates flank Nakamichi National Sales Manager Robin McNeal with their awards.

The meeting was conducted by Nakamichi National Sales Manager, Robin McNeal and Diplomat Trading Sales Manager Orestes Ordaz (Diplomat serves as Nakamichi’s exclusive agent for the USA, Caribbean, Central and Latin America). In all ten rep groups were present including:

Advanced Marketing- Bruce Gilsdorf

Alan Wojtas Associates- Alan Wojtas

Arrowhead Marketing- Doug Hoaglund

Discovery On Mark Group-Kevin Klockner

Following dinner the reps participated in a roundtable discussion about what is needed for 2022.

Encore Sales- Kenny Giba and Tom Scuderi

End Result- Rusty North

Foresight Industries- Edric Taira

MC Marketing – Michael Colundjia

Mielenz Sales- Bill Mielenz

Sound Sales & Marketing -Jerry Zemming

Jeff Budin-Rock-N-Rev Sales & Marketing earned the Rookie Rep of the Year and was also The Top New Sales Producer.

The Monday night meeting kicked off for what turned out to be a very successful showing for Nakamichi during SEMA week. The company had quality meetings with both existing and prospective customers.

“We were extremely pleased with the show and the number of people we met with,” stated Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio. “It was great to meet face to face again with so many industry friends.”

Visit nakamichi-usa.com for more.

VAIS Technology Received 2 New Product Awards at SEMA

Posted on November 10, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SEMA, VAIS Technology.

ENGLEWOOD, CO (11.11.2021) – VAIS Technology announces 2 new products at the 2021 SEMA show. Fiber optics ambient lighting – recognized as a runner up for best mobile electronics. SEER Smart Access with Push to Start – recognized with 2 global media awards.

Smart Access System (SEER) with Push to Start incorporates all the benefits of SEER which are proximity keyless entry, walk-away lock, illuminated entry, audible alerts, and adds a Push to Start button. The system will come with a choice of 2 push to start buttons. Plastic OEM looking button and metal button to accommodate the vintage look of a classic. Compatible with any model that doesn’t come with a steering lock system will be available Q1 2022 at $799.99. Pre-orders are taken. Metal push to start button kit can also be purchased from Ididit (ididit.com) completely integrated into the steering column from them.

Fiber Optics Interior Ambient Lighting kit is designed to be added to any vehicle. The kit adds 6 light sources anywhere in the vehicle. Flexible fiber optics cables can be run to any location in the vehicle where you need light at and then are connected to ECU module. Color and brightness are controlled via a smartphone app. Kit was designed for one of the OEM partners for VAIS but will also be available for aftermarket. This high-quality kit will retail for $199.99 and will ship Q1 2022. Pre-Orders accepted now.

Visit www.vaistech.com for more.

ZZ-2 Launches Wireless CarPlay for Dodge / Chrysler / Jeep / Ram

Posted on November 9, 2021 by 12VoltNews in Featured and tagged ZZ-2.

PALM BEACH, FL (11.10.2021) – ZZ-2 has released the IT2-JGC Interface for select Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep/Ram vehicles.

Rich De Sclafani stated, “We are extremely excited to launch our Wireless CarPlay interface for D/C/J/R vehicles with the 8” U-CONNECT system. There are many of these vehicles on the road and this kit gives retailers the opportunity to provide a solution for these vehicles. These interfaces provide a complete all in one solution for supported vehicles. They offer wireless connectivity, safety, and convenience. These interfaces are exactly what is needed to add the latest technology to these vehicles. The interfaces exclusively use the factory touchscreen to control the interface and come with a 3 year warranty. The IT2-JGC are in stock and available to ship.”