SEMA Solidifies Detroit Presence; Selects Benjamin Kaminsky as Detroit Operations Manager

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.02.2021) – SEMA has announced the hiring of Benjamin Kaminsky as the new Detroit operations manager. Earlier this year, SEMA announced the purchase of a 45,000-sq.-ft. building in Detroit to be used as a second SEMA Garage. Kaminsky will be responsible for the overall management of SEMA Garage Detroit services and facilities to assist members with new product development and integration.

“Benjamin Kaminsky will be a great addition to our SEMA Garage team,” said Mike Spagnola, vice president of OEM & product development programs. “He comes to SEMA with over 20 years of experience in the automotive and automotive aftermarket industry as an engineering and project manager having worked at both automakers and tier-one suppliers.”

Benjamin Kaminsky

Kaminsky will work closely with domestic and import OEMs, along with tier-level suppliers and testing facilities to ensure flow of information essential to the industry’s accurate development of new and innovative products. They will also collaborate to develop opportunities that will benefit SEMA-member manufacturers. Kaminsky’s experience will allow him to cultivate these relationships. Prior to joining SEMA, Kaminsky worked at General Motors as a senior design and release engineer. He oversaw the design, development, validation and release of Chevrolet Performance air intakes, exhausts and components for use in performance applications. He also worked closely with GM emissions compliance and legal groups to ensure engineering hardware development and release processes consistently delivered products that met and exceeded regulatory requirements.

Prior to GM, Kaminsky worked at Bosch Motorsport in a variety of roles, from senior technical engineer to hardware development manager. He managed a department of engineers to develop hardware components for the professional racing industry.

“With his experience and solid OEM and tier supplier relationships, Ben will help the SEMA Garage Detroit best serve our manufacturer members,” shared Spagnola.

The SEMA Garage Detroit will offer manufacturers access to advanced product-development tools and equipment, a state-of-the-art emissions testing lab, an ADAS research and development center and expert technicians who will help bring products to market at the SEMA Garage Detroit. The Detroit facility will give aftermarket parts manufacturers access to sophisticated resources that are typically accessible only to large-scale manufacturers. In addition to exclusive OEM measuring sessions, scanning services, advanced tools and equipment, a CARB-recognized emissions lab and a modern training center, the Detroit facility will include expanded services and offer new SEMA benefits through the ADAS Research and Development Center.

“Being part of SEMA Garage provides me the opportunity to combine my engineering background, project management skills and relationships to make a difference in the automotive and automotive aftermarket industry,” said Benjamin Kaminksy. “I look forward to working with SEMA manufacturer members and continuing my relationships with OEMs and tier suppliers.”

The SEMA Garage Detroit facility is scheduled to be open for members in early 2022. For more information, visit www.semagarage.com.

This article was written by Della Domingo for sema.org

Electronics Depot Car Audio Wins Kenwood Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Spin 138

SHREVEPORT LA (07.31.21)  WTF…Win This Friday. Electronics Deport Car Audio won the Kenwood Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday morning, July 30th.

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

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 138th time on Friday morning July 30th. The Wheel landed on the Kenwood space. The Electronics Depot Car Audio slip was drawn from the jar and an Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out by phone and talked with Greg Ivazian at the retailer’s store in Altamonte Springs FL. We let Greg know that the Kenwood Qi Wireless Charging Car Mount would be sent his way.
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, Accele, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, JBL, Kenwood, Power Acoustik, JVC and ZZ-2. 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 and Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, August 6th.

MB Quart Heads to Colorado for Overland Expo/Mountain West 2021

LOVELAND, CO (07.30.2021) – MB Quart is heading out to Loveland, Colorado for the Overland Expo/Mountain West 2021 event. The Overland Expo continues to be the premier Overlanding event series in the entire world and is shaping up to be a fun opportunity for MB Quart to showcase some of the newest product lines, including the ALL-NEW for 2021 Jeep Tuned Audio Kits.

Taking place over the span of three days from August 27th through the 29th, the Overland Expo/Mountain West 2021 begins on Friday at 9:00 a.m. (GMT) and runs through 3:00 p.m. (GMT) on Sunday. All of the action takes place at “The Ranch,” at 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, Colorado 80538. 250+ exhibitors specializing in overland, outdoor, adventure travel, and motorcycle gear and equipment will be present exhibiting, inspiring others, and showcasing knowledge over the three days.

MB Quart is continually investing in the Overland category and events as they have proven to result in crucial success for demonstrating and showcasing products as the turnout and traffic of consumers have shown incredible interest and returning profit.

Building on the excitement of returning to Overland Expo/Mountain West 2021, Rob Anderson, Marketing & Creative Director, said, “The team at MB Quart and Maxxsonics USA are going all-in on Off-road and Overlanding. We see significant growth and potential in this segment and are very excited to be investing and a part of this industry.The team personally loves the Overlanding lifestyle as we want to bring the audio lifestyle to every adventure.”

MB Quart will be exhibiting at the event, featuring the ALL-NEW lineup of Jeep Tuned Audio Kits. Unleashing exploration with a concert right in your Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT vehicle, Jeep Tuned Audio Kits bring concert levels of LOUD while remaining completely undistorted on every adventure.

Every purposely engineered Jeep Tuned Audio Kit is a direct replacement for all OEM speakers and features Plug & Play OEM fitment. With 11 different audio kits to choose from, including a Stage 6, 6 speaker, 800-watt stereo speaker upgrade kit that integrates with the OEM source unit, exclusively for the Gladiator JT there is an add-on subwoofer kit that includes 2, 8-inch subwoofers and a 400-watt mono amplifier. The subwoofer enclosure is under the rear passenger seats and will truly make it feel like the concert is happening right there in the back seat.

For a breakdown on what Jeep Tuned Audio Kit is perfect for your vehicle installation, head over to the MB Quart website at mbquart.com/shop/products/mobile/mobile-vehicle-kits

Hear and see all of the newest products from MB Quart at Overland Expo/Mountain West 2021. See complete event details at overlandexpo.com/mtn-west

Kleinn Air Horns Equip Jeep JT to Be Loud

TUSCON, AZ (07.30.2021) – The JT-OBA Onboard Air system was designed to perform under the most extreme conditions. Each system is 100% Bolt-On and features the heavy-duty Kleinn model 6450RC WATERPROOF air compressor with a 2.8-gallon air tank mounted on a superior custom designed mounting bracket. NO Cutting, NO Drilling or Modifications are necessary. These Direct Fit systems include all the necessary air line, hardware, fittings and wiring kit with 30-amp relay.

The JT-OBA is built rugged with a steel cage and integral skid plate for protection with no loss of ground clearance. The 6450RC compressor is fully submersible so water crossings are no problem.

The JT-OBA is capable of inflating 37” tires with ease. System provides an air source for air lockers, small air tools and of course, your Kleinn Air Horn. Each JT-OBA includes a remote mount tire inflator with locking air chuck with digital gauge, pressure relief and storage bag.

Visit kleinn.com for more.

Axxess Ships New Interface Designed to Retain Ford F-150 and Fusion A2B Amplifiers

HOLLY HILL, FL (07.30.2021) – Axxess by Metra Electronics has a new interface, the AXA2B-FD1, designed to retain the A2B amplifier in Ford’s 2018-up* F-150 and 2017-up* Fusion models. This add-on amplifier interface is used when replacing the factory radio with Metra’s 99-5834CH and 99-5841B TurboTouch dash kits, which are sold separately.

This solution retains the Bang & Olufsen amplifier with an A2B input in Ford’s F-150 and retains the Sony amplifier with an A2B input in Ford Fusion. This Axxess interface also retains the balance audio feature when replacing the factory radio and is Micro “B” USB updatable.

AXA2B-FD1 Product Specifications:

  • Add-on interface for Metra’s 99-5834CH & 99-5841B dash kits
  • Allows the amplifier to keep working when replacing the original factory radio
  • Retains the Bang and Olufsen amplifier with an A2B input in Ford F-150
  • Retains the Sony amplifier with an A2B input in Ford Fusion
  • Retains balance
  • Includes a vehicle-specific harness
  • Micro “B” USB updatable

Visit AxxessInterfaces.com and MetraOnline.com for more.

Steel Valley Regional IX Filled The HARV Arena July 24th &d 25th

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.29.2021) – The HARV Arena at the Mountaineer Casino and Resort, in New Cumberland WV, was home to the Steel Valley Regional IX July 24th and 25th presented by ARC Audio.

“This year’s show had over 150 competition entries including IASCA, MECA and EMMA Sound Quality and Install categories. The Top 40 cars were judged by 5 judges using selected music readily available on Amazon and Apple Music. In the end the car’s scores were averaged and ranked from 40th to 1st place. The cars and competitors came from as far away as California, Texas, Florida and the Midwest” Larry Chijner, the man behind the Steel Valley Regional IX event, related.

SQOLOGY was live from the stage filled with trophies and prizes.

Some of the old time competitors attended to judge and some to listen to the cars all weekend. That group included Earl, Zausmer, Harry Kimura, Steve Cornell, Ron Buffungton, Jeff Smith, Brian Huston, Tony Pasquale, Tim Goudy, Keith Turner and more.

The ARC Audio, the Presenting Sponsor’s booth, showcased many of the company’s latest products.

Continuing, Chijner stated, “Prizes and Trophies were  presented to all who competed. Judges for this event are Harry Kimura, Brian Huston, Tony Pasquale, Scott Welch, Ron Buffington and Keith Turner. Scott Welch from ARPA Of America was a Judge from California. Klifton Keplinger and I were the Head Judges for the event as well as as all scoring tabulations.”

This group represents close to 200 years of competition experience in one picture. Harry Kimura, Ron Buffington, Earl Zausmer, Jeff Smith, Steve Cornell and Larry Chijner (2nd R).

12volt companies that participated on site at the event included ARC Audio, ORCA Design, Focal, Mosconi, Gladden, Black Hole, TRU Technology, JL Audio, ARPA of America, Dynaudio, Zapco, Accuton Automotive, ESB Audio, Stinger, Hybrid Technologies, Xcelsus, Mercury, Audio Visions, Quartorgio, Audio Wave Ltd, Italia HiFi, ResoNix, German Maestro, Kharma Audio, Vibe Audio and Davis Distribution.

See a complete list of SVR IX winners on the web: www.steelvalleyregional.com

IASCA’s Travis Chin commented, “The Steel Valley Regional was a premier SQ event. It began a string of triple point events that will help members acquire enough points to earn an invite to our North American Championship in October. There were plenty of top sound quality vehicles to check out as they prepared for their run for the championship.” IASCA Judges were Keith Turner and Travis Chin.

MECA Commish stated, “Larry Chijner’s SVR is always a premier event on the MECA SQL schedule. This year we brought our enhanced 4X SQL program to the SVR, as part of SQOLOGY, sponsored by ARC Audio. Three of our top SQL judges rated each system’s Sound Quality, individually, and scores were averaged for the most fair outcome. Judges gave detailed notes for improvement which will lead to better scores for all MECA competitors. The MECA 4X events were designed to help prepare MECA competitors for our Finals event October 23/24 in Bentonville AR were contests will include 7 Sound Quality classes, 4 install classes, RTA Freq Out and two 2 seat (old School) SQ classes.”

Continuing, Stern offered, “Judges at the SVR included Mike Flanagan (MS), Joseph Hedden (IL), Tony Horton and Mic Wallace (NC). A big thanks as always to Larry and Klifton from SQOLOGY who worked to make this year’s SVR a highlight of the MECA season.”

EMMA Judges were Jeff Smith and Tom Meyers.

Concluding, Chijner relayed, “We look forward to seeing everyone at the SVR X which is planned for late July 2022 back at The HARV. The date will be announced next week.”

Visit steelvalleyregional.com for more.

Tri-State Enterprises Announces Addition of New Facility

ARLINGTON, TX (07.29.2021) – Tri-State Enterprises, a wholesale distributor of automotive parts, automotive paint, mobile audio/electronics, and truck accessories, is proud to announce the addition of a 492,000 sq ft warehouse in Arlington, TX. This will be the largest facility for Tri-State Enterprises.

Tri-State has designated this space to their growth in the Texas market along with surrounding states. The general manager of the Arlington warehouse is to be Junior Calvert who has more than 30 years in the industry. The assistant general manager is to be Scott Covelli. Scott has been in the industry for 25 years. These two gentlemen, along with a host of other long-time industry team members, are ready to take Tri-State forward in several key areas and categories. Along with this new building, Tri-State is adding new and innovative technologies to increase efficiencies along with expanding its current line offering in all divisions of the company to better serve their customer base.

“We are very excited about our new location in Arlington. With this new facility and the combination of the WM Automotive and Tri-State Texas teams, we feel like we are in a great position to continue to take Tri-State to the next level in the Texas market. Our goal is to offer the best service along with a large inventory to better serve our growing customer base in the great state of Texas. We will have many additions both in categories and personnel over the next few months. Please stay tuned for additional announcements in the very near future. ” – Tri-State owner, Tristan Taylor.

Visit www.etristate.com for more.

AccuAir Suspension Launches Product Sales and New E-Commerce Website

MERRITT ISLAND, FL (07.29.2021) – AccuAir Suspension, maker of next generation air suspension control products, has launched product sales after being acquired by Arnott LLC late last year. E-commerce sales are now available via the company’s new website, https://accuair.com/, for both dealers and direct-to-consumer sales.

The launch includes AccuAir’s cornerstone products, such as the e-Level+ control system, including the e+ Connect ECU with built-in Bluetooth 5.0, and air supply and accessory components. The product offering now available for sale was designed for next generation air suspension control for automotive applications.

“Since Arnott LLC acquired the AccuAir brand in late 2020, we’ve been working hard to launch sales of the brand’s cornerstone air suspension products,” said Ryan Rutledge, AccuAir Suspension’s director of controls. “We’re proud to be launching the brand and products for both wholesale and retail sales. Additionally, we plan to have some exciting new product announcements happening soon.”

As part of the brand’s long-anticipated reemergence, a new, e-commerce driven website has also been launched. The site features more robust e-commerce options than ever before, designed with consumer education in mind. Air suspension enthusiasts can find all of the information needed to build a custom air suspension system for their vehicle.

The current product offering includes:
•    e-Level e+ Connect ECU Upgrade
•    e+ Connect Wireless Controller
•    Height+ TruPosition Height Sensors
•    TouchPad+
•    ENDO-T and ENDO-VT air tanks
•    Air Compressors
•    Plumbing Kits and Accessories
•    Valve Manifolds
•    Replacement Parts
•    ePlus app (available on the Apple App Store and Google Play)

For more information on AccuAir Suspension and its products, visit accuair.com. A list of AccuAir dealers can be found at accuair.com/pages/dealers.

717 Car Audio at the 25th Annual All Breeds Jeep Show

CARLISLE, PA (07.28.2021) – The 25th Annual All Breeds Jeep Show drew literally thousands of Jeeps and Jeepers to the Carlisle Fairgrounds in Carlisle PA on Saturday and Sunday July 24th and 25th. There were 2 full days of Jeep only access and over 100 vendors representing top companies showcasing aftermarket products for Jeeps. In addition Jeepers could run the obstacle course plus an off-road adventure that was off site.

717 Car Audio definitely grabs attention at events with the pink ‘Fight Like a Girl’ Jeep and wrapped Toy Hauler.
Right out of the gate Saturday morning the 717 Car Audio booth started to attracted Jeepers.

717 Car Audio was one of the top vendors and had major presence…in fact a 40’ x 80′ booth layout. 717 Car Audio is located in Mountville PA which only about an hour from Carlisle. On Friday morning, July 23rd, the team pulled out towing a 40’ Toy Hauler plus a 22’ trailer for the fairly short trip. 717 Car Audio is part of the 717 Companies group that includes 717 Wraps and Graphics plus 717 Shirt Shop. The 40’ Toy Hauler, that was filled with inventory and supplies for the event, is completely wrapped with amazing full color graphics…that’s both sides and back. How about 900 square feet of eye-catching graphics to make their booth stand out at a show. The 22’ trailer carried the loaded Pink ‘Fight Like A Girl’ Jeep.

Tables underneath the tents were stacked with hot items for Jeeps.

717 Car Audio’s Scott Wagner, who contributed details for this article, stated, “Sales were phenomenal. Chuck Ottati, our KICKER rep with Opus Marketing, was in the booth and we basically sold out of KICKER products the first day. The Stinger Heigh 10 is always a hot item for Jeepers. Stephanie and Jeremy definitely do it right with displays and presentations. We had a full staff that worked the event. Over the course of the 2 days 717 Car Audio did a ton of business from the displays under the tent plus installations under our big install bay tent.

Custom T-Shirts are alway a big seller for 717 Car Audio at consumer events.

Ottati related, “It was terrific to be at such an exciting Jeep event with 717 Car Audio. All the Jeepers were enthusiastic to be at the event and the 717 Car Audio setup, Livin’Loud with demos, was one of the very best on the Carlisle Fairgrounds.”

More of the selection of products that 717 Car Audio had on site for Jeeps.

At the event in Carlisle the 717 Car Audio Team booked numerous jobs and appointments for customer jobs back at their Mountville store.

In just last month 717 Car Audio, a very proactive 12volt retailer, has had very successful events at the Bantam Jeep Festival in Butler PA and NJ Jeep Invasion in Wildwoods NJ.

Visit www.717caraudio.com for more.

Magnadyne Appoints CE GUYS to Represent Carbine and Silencer Brands

COMPTON, CA (07.28.2021) – Magnadyne has announced the signing of the CE Guys to represent the New Carbine and Silencer remote start & security product lines for Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North & South Dakota, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky and Hawaii.  

Magnadyne’s Armando Parra (L) and CE GUYS Mario Zamudio (C) are pictured with Luis Andrade during a sales call with Custom Car Audio aka M&M Pro Audio in Chicago IL. Parra, based at Magnadyne’s HQ in Compton CA, was traveling the territory with CE GUYS Team members.

With over thirty-four years of experience the CE Guys are a family-owned corporation which is managed by Michael and Christy Foundation.  “It’s one thing to have a strong work ethic, but it’s another to do it with sincere passion, —and in sales, that passion has allowed Michael to achieve unbelievable success and industry recognition.” Christy Foundation – CE Guys

“I look forward to working with Michael & Christy, as well as Mario Zamudio, Daniel Mount, and Edric Taira in bringing our New Silencer and Carbine Solutions to one of the largest Automotive Remote Start Centric Markets in the United States.  Michael and I are aligned and committed to building a value-added business approach to our dealer and distribution relationships through seamless execution of our customer centric sales, service, and strategic placement initiatives.” Armando Parra – Magnadyne

For more information on the CE Guys or to inquire about becoming an authorized Carbine dealer or authorized Silencer distributor in the Upper and Middle West Markets please contact Michael Foundation  (877) 7CE-GUYS or email info@ceguys.com

Visit ceguys.com and magnadyne.com for more.