Oracle Lighting Announces New Ford Mustang LED Grill Vent Accent Lights

METAIRE, LA (01.22.2020) – ORACLE Lighting has announced its new Dynamic ColorSHIFT RGB+A LED Grill Vent Accent Lights for the 2015-2017 Ford Mustangs (p/n 1282-332). The new accent lights are now available with an MSRP of $295.95.

“We are excited to announce this feature-packed new Mustang accessory…the ORACLE Lighting Dynamic ColorSHIFT RGB+A LED Grill Vent Accent Lights,” said Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “The new lights feature individually addressable LEDs which pack a ton of unique features, including allowing the user to run multiple moving color patterns through the LEDs, creating a vivid eye-catching lighting effect. Our new RGB+A SWITCHBACK line-up feature Amber LEDs for a dynamic turn signal effect. The Amber LED chips can be utilized as a Turn Signal by tapping into the + turn signal wire.”

Through the App you can easily set to a standard white color for normal Daytime Running Light use then switch to any static color using the LED color wheel. What makes these DYNAMIC halos more unique is that you can also display a variety of moving patterns within the app. With more than 200 different patterns, there is something to fit every color scheme you can imagine. The White DRL mode is designed for street use while the other colors are for “show” use only.

“We are excited to get back to our roots with this new and innovative Mustang product,” said Hartenstein. “ORACLE’s first lighting modifications were for the Ford Mustang when the company began more than 20 years ago.”

Installation is also easy thanks to the IP67 waterproof characteristics of the circuit boards. These LEDs are completely encapsulated in a waterproof resin which makes them completely waterproof and allows them to be installed onto the outside of the lens. This makes installation easy, even for a beginner.

Wiring is now made simple with the plug-and-play connectors. Simply plug the halos into the LED driver and connect to + and – to the battery. Then you just turn on the app and connect to the controller.

The kit includes:

  • (2) Waterproof Dynamic ColorSHIFT Grill Vent Accent Lights
  • LED Driver  Hub with Plug & Play Connectors
  • (1) RGB+A Bluetooth LED Controller
  • (1) Inputs for Dynamic Turn Signals
  • (1) Adhesion Promoter Pad

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

Alphasonik Releases New 800 Series Subwoofers

GARDENA, CA (01.22.2020) – Car audio enthusiasts now have a new way to enjoy their favorite music in their car with the all-new 12-inch subwoofer-the VSW812 from Alphasonik.

“The Alpha VSW812, our 12-inch 800 Series dual 4-ohm subwoofer, will change the way you listen to music in your vehicle,” says Enrique Avalos-Director of Sales & Marketing. “The woofer is rated at 1200 watts RMS, with 87dB efficiency, and a frequency response of 28Hz to 500Hz.

The VSW812 features a massive 2-layer, high travel foam surround for reliability and control at maximum excursion. Our new surround is designed for increased cone surface area without sacrificing low frequency response.

Additional features include:  Proprietary Cast Aluminum CNC Machine Finish “Alpha” Basket and Cooling Rings for Motor Assembly, Pressed Paper Kevlar-Reinforced Cone, Flat Progressive Rate Nomex Spider with Spiral-Woven Leads and 8-gauge Spring Loaded Terminals.

Like all Alphasonik 800 series subwoofers, the 12-inch features a taller, narrower J-surround and a special aluminum trim ring which conceals the mounting screws. The woofer is offered in dual 4-ohm, allowing you more flexibility during installation.

The Alphasonik VSW812 retails for $279.99 and is available now! For more information, email us at  enrique@alphasonik.com or visit www.alphasonik.com

Mobile Solutions Hosts Second So. Cal. Hot Rod Fab Class

TEMPE, AZ (01.21.2020) – Mobile Solutions is hosting a special one-day Accelerated Hot Rod Interior Fabrication 2.0 training session in Southern California on Thursday February 6th, just before the official kick off of MEA KnowledgeFest in Long Beach, CA. Bryan Schmitt, president of Mobile Solutions leads the class, along with the all-star builders who’ve been part of other popular Mobile Solutions training classes including: Juan “JT” Torres, Tom Miller, Chris Pate and Gary Bell. The training session is scheduled for 1 pm – 7 pm and is hosted at Automotive Entertainment in Huntington Beach, CA.

Bryan Schmitt from Mobile Solutions comments “We had such a successful training event last year at Automotive Entertainment that we’ve stepped up the curriculum and added even more instructors so that it’ll be guaranteed to be an incredible event for those in attendance.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the most talented designers and fabrication minds in the business. Here’s a summary of what is presented in this can’t miss training:

• How to conceptualize an interior design and convert it to something you can build
• Detailed router work examples for greater safety, precision and efficiency
• Using aluminum in multiple ways for serviceable panel construction and cosmetic interest
• How to seam multiple materials together (vinyl, suede & carpet) and create interest
• New and refined vinyl embossing techniques to personalize hot rod interior design
• New and refined diamond pattern panel technique to emulate upscale vehicle interiors
• Technical leather and vinyl wrapping examples with time-saving tools and preparation
• Where to find premium OEM-grade leather, vinyl, fabric, glue and supplies

“In our automotive builder-centric community of Southern California, we appreciate the opportunity to present advanced interior fabrication techniques to 12 volt technicians and hot rod builders alike” says JT Torres of Automotive Entertainment who is hosting the event. Torres, Chris Pate and Tom Miller were all former ME-Mag Installer of the Year recipients in addition to each being accomplished business owners. Gary Bell, another guest instructor and business owner at Define Concepts, builds demo vehicles regularly for leading 12 volt manufacturers.

Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be served throughout the training day. Attendees are treated to a world-class Santa Maria-style BBQ dinner with all the trimmings at the close of the training session put on by Armando “Mandezze” Rolon of Atlas Custom Sound. Orca Manufacturing is co-sponsoring the dinner.

This is an incredible opportunity for professionals in interior design and custom fabrication to learn in a real shop environment, enjoy great food, meet and collaborate with like-minded industry professionals and get in gear for the KnowledgeFest event in Long Beach, CA that follows on Feb 7-9, 2020.

Though the training session is presented in English, Spanish speakers will have access to JT Torres and other Spanish-speaking fabricators to help translate questions on the content specifics during class breaks.

Find additional information and to register for the one-day So. Cal Accelerated Hot Rod Fab 2.0 training, visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.

Tuition is $199 and includes the incredible Santa Maria-style BBQ dinner after the event. Registration closes Monday February 3, 2020.

Sound Storm Laboratories Launches Powersports Plug & Play Boom Tubes

OXNARD, CA (01.21.2020) – Sound Storm Laboratories is proud to announce the launch or two new powersports plug & play boom tubes. The BTB6L (MSRP: $203.00) and BTB8L (MSRP: $259.00) are now shipping.

“SSL’s two new powersports weatherproof boom tubes feature a simple plug & play design for easy installation and powerful built-in Class D amplification for unparalleled performance on your ATV, UTV, side by side…and even tailgating,” explained Greg Orlando, SSL brand manager. “Both models come with Bluetooth compatibility and a 3.5mm Aux input to retrieve your favorite music from your Smartphone or MP3 device.”

The two-way BTB6L features 450 Watts (Max) power with 6.5-inch speakers and 1-inch tweeters. The BTB8L features 700 Watts (Max) power with 8-inch speakers and 1-inch tweeters. Both feature built-in RGB LED lighting with wireless remote control.

“Affordable, rugged, and powerful, you won’t want to be without the BTB6L and BTB8L out on the trails, beach, or wherever your ride may take you,” Orlando concluded.

Visit www.soundstormlab.com for more.

Axxess Introduces STOP/START Engine Override Data Interface for GM Vehicles

HOLLY HILL, FL (01.21.2020) – Axxess Integrate by Metra Electronics is expanding its line of STOP/START engine override interfaces to now cover GM vehicles. The AXSSO-GM is an interface designed to automatically disengage the STOP/START engine feature on select 2016-up* GM vehicles.

This new and exclusive technology was previously introduced at CES 2019 for select Ford and Chrysler models. The patent-pending interface can be used with factory or aftermarket radios. The AXSSO-GM has weather-resistant housing and harnessing, with a simple two-wire installation under the hood.

As some newer vehicles come equipped with a way to disengage the engine’s STOP/START feature, there are still several GM models that do not allow the driver to turn this off. This may become bothersome at long traffic lights during hot or inclement weather, as it could affect the vehicle’s ability to cool or heat the interior.

The vibration of the engine turning on and off may also be annoying to some drivers during city driving. Now, installers will have the ability to offer GM owners the option to override their engine STOP/START feature with the new AXSSO-GM interface. This new interface is coming soon and will be on display with Metra Electronics at CES from January 7-10, 2020 at booth 5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Visit AxxessInterfaces.com for up-to-date, vehicle specific information.

KICKER Awards the 2019 Sales Rep- and Firm-of-the-Year at CES

STILLWATER, OK (01.20.2020) – Stillwater Designs was proud to recognize Daniel Hernandez of Trent Partners and Associates (Rockville Centre, N.Y.) as the 2019 KICKER Manufacturers Representative-of-the-Year, and Marketing Pros (Conroe, Texas) as Manufacturers Representative Firm-of-the-Year during its annual meetings at CES in Las Vegas.

Covering Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas, Marketing Pros were chosen for their attentiveness to dealers, their communication skills and ability to grow new business in their territories. The Marketing Pros team consists of Pete Daley (principal), Kevin Knox, Jim Wehling, Mike Penny, George Reed and Kristin Daley.

Marketing Pros – pictured left to right are Kevin Knox, Kristin Daley, Pete Daley and Brad Ganz

“Ultimately, the reps are an extension of us,” said Brad Ganz, KICKER’s Regional Sales Manager for the Central U.S. “If they’re doing a good job, dealers are happy. If there is a problem, we want the reps to be able to handle the issue quickly and effectively. It’s a well-oiled machine that keeps moving forward.”

Daniel Hernandez (left) with Matt Matheson

The KICKER Rep-of-the-Year criteria is similar to that of the companies for which they work. Individual service and communication skills are evaluated in conjunction with fiscal criteria.

“Daniel has impressed me with his work ethic,” said Matt Matheson, KICKER’s Northeast Regional Sales Manager. “He works very well with everyone internally. His product knowledge and extensive technical background in the car-stereo industry have all contributed to dealers in his territory valuing his input.”

KICKER places a premium on servicing its dealers.  Every year, KICKER celebrates the representative firm and individual reps that consistently exceed expectations, measured by financial growth, providing outstanding service to customers and maintaining clear, reliable communication with members of the KICKER corporate team.

Visit kicker.com for more.

RhinoBox Is Set for 2020

RICHMOND, TX (01.20.2020) – RhinoBox is ready for 2020. The company’s lineup of enclosures is designed to save dealers time and provide a strong profit opportunity.

Nassir Rizvi and Mosin Ahmed pictured in the warehouse with a portion of the inventory.

David Toliver, Synergy Marketing Rep Firm Principal, stated “RhinoBox provides the tools for our Distributors and Retail Partners to succeed with the broad selection of vehicle specific enclosures. New in-store posters and full catalogs are key tools as the products are covered in detail in the catalog and consumers can see models available on the poster.”

The RhinoBox in-store poster will grab attention on a wall on the showroom.

RhinoBox does not sell online and all of their boxes are stapled and glued for durability. Everything they sell comes with a LIFETIME WARRANTY. Also, the company’s packaging has pictures of the enclosures on the box which makes it easy for inventory and displaying them on the showroom floor. 

The full line catalog details the enclosure product lineup.

RhinoBox also offers unfinished enclosures that are available if dealers want to vinyl wrap an enclosure and put a custom touch on a prebuilt enclosure.

Product images and information on the box makes it easy for dealers to check inventory.

“Currently we are evaluating regional distribution partners and welcome the opportunity to expand the RhinoBox network nationwide.”  If you have interest or would like more information, contact David or Michelle Toliver at 281-750-5004 or email us at sales@synergyagency.net.

Visit rhinobassbox.com for more.

The DS18 LTI40AH Lithium Battery Is Now Shipping

MIAMI GARDENS, FL (01.20.2020) – The DS18 LTI40AH battery is an amazing investment. Now, with the technology of today, enthusiasts don’t need a lot of excess heavy lead acid or AGM batteries to power all of their aftermarket accessories.

Lithium technology has advanced in such a way that these powerful, small batteries have vehicle applications for daily use. From cars to boats, even ATVs and side by sides, can benefit from Lithium technology.

Why use lithium? With every ONE of DS18’s LTI40AH batteries, users are getting more power than five 100ah lead acid or AGM batteries… all while saving tons of weight and space.

Now with these high-powered, compact, and long living DS18 lithium batteries enthusiasts can enjoy their music for hours with the vehicle off and not have to worry about no-start or slow-start conditions because of the amazing sheer power each DS18 Lithium battery has to offer. The LTI40AH retails for $999.99.

For more info on DS18’s LTI40AH, visit DS18.com

Tint World Ranked as Top Franchise for 6th Year in a Row in Franchise 500

BOCA RATON, FL (01.17.2020) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers recently ranked in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Placement in the Franchise 500 is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry making it one of the company’s most competitive rankings ever. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500 ranks Tint World as 279 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“The 500 companies on this list all have something in common: They understand what consumers want now,” says Entrepreneur editor-in-chief Jason Feifer. “They may be an upstart in a brand-new category, or they may be a brand like Dunkin’ that’s ranked highly on our list for decades. But either way, making our list means they’re forward-thinking, nimble, and closely in touch with their customers’ needs—because in an ever-changing business environment, that’s what a franchise must do to thrive.”

An excited Charles Bonfiglio at a Tint World store in the Middle East.

The key factors that go into the evaluation include costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.

“Appearing in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 for the sixth consecutive year proves the dedication and work ethic of the Tint World team,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World. “The Tint World staff and franchise owners are committed to maintaining the company’s position among the elite automotive styling franchises. We’re all extremely grateful this recognition, but it also inspires us to achieve even more in 2020.”

Over its 41 years in existence, the Franchise 500 has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto and marine accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.

To view Tint World in the full ranking, visit entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2020 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands Jan. 14.

KICKER Welcomes Aziz Masri to the International Sales Team

STILLWATER, OK (01.17.2020) – KICKER announces the addition of longtime KICKER employee Aziz Masri to the International Sales Team.

In a new initiative spearheaded by International Sales Director Chet Weddle, Masri will serve several locations on every continent KICKER serves, as will every member of the International Sales Team.

Aziz Masri

“When you interview for a position like this, you search for someone who can become the face of the company outside these walls, and do so admirably,” Weddle said.  “We loved that Aziz would look at the position from a different perspective, and knew he would be an immediate fit.

“Based on this expansion, we’ve thrown a stick of dynamite at the traditional model. Instead of assigning territories to each member of the department, we are matching people to personalities,” Weddle said.

Masri has worked at KICKER for over two decades, starting in the Electronic Repair department and then transferring to Research and Development. He was then promoted to Electronic Repair Manager – a post he held for the past 15 years.

“I have always felt that because of my overseas background, that I could do a good job in the International Sales Department,” Masri said. “I wanted to do more for this company and move to a new challenge. Working in the technical side, you are trained to look at transistors and coils.  Now I look at how the product I have worked on for so long fits my customer, and how I can help make our products serve each territory.  I’m very excited to start.”

Visit kicker.com for more.