SHREVEPORT, LA (08.13.26) – In today’s AI driven and social media world it is more important than ever for members of the 12volt industry to connect with industry members and consumers. These activities are more important than ever to drive in-vehicle automotive upgrades awareness and business for brick and mortar retailers. Consumers can’t feel the bass in their chest or appreciate the separation of mid range and highs on a smartphone or laptop. The in-store experience is more important than ever!
Sean Davis put the Mid-State Distributing Marketing Ball in place showcasing a XK Glow motorcycle lighting kit.
In-person trade and distributor shows are terrific to connect and show new products in one-on-one settings. Trade show and distributor show attendance over the last years has diminished. The KnowledgeFest Detroit was recently rescheduled. The 12volt Central Studios can put a company in their own customized booth using the 12voltSTP and deliver the message to the 12volt industry with The 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball. Industry members must realize marketing in a 24/7 journey.
Please email mike@12voltnews.com for more details to get your company’s Marketing Ball in play!
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.13.26) – SEMA has officially opened entries for the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers, introducing a new Motorcycle category and the all-new SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout.
For more than a decade, SEMA Battle of the Builders has recognized the industry’s most talented vehicle builders, providing a platform to showcase the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation behind some of the most innovative custom builds in the world. For 2026, the competition will expand its reach to include motorcycles, giving custom bike builders a dedicated opportunity to compete and earn recognition on the industry’s biggest stage.
“Motorcycles have always been a vital part of the customization community, and we’re excited to officially bring these builders into the SEMA Battle of the Builders spotlight,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “The Bike Builder Shootout creates a new platform for motorcycle builders to showcase their craftsmanship, creativity, and passion while competing alongside some of the most talented custom bike builders in the industry.”
The new SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout will feature a dedicated Motorcycle competition recognizing standout custom bikes from builders across the country. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of motorcycle industry experts based on craftsmanship, design innovation, and overall execution. The inaugural judging panel will include Zach Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles, Jeff Holt of V-Twin Visionary, and Pat Patterson of Led Sled Customs, three respected leaders in the custom motorcycle community with decades of combined experience building, designing, and promoting motorcycle culture.
Motorcycle judges will review submissions before selecting the Top 10 finalists. Those finalists will then help determine the Top 3 category winners and select the overall Bike Builder Shootout champion, creating a competition judged by the builders and industry experts who understand the craft firsthand.
“The motorcycle community has always been built on creativity, craftsmanship, and a passion for creating something unique,” said Judge Chairman Bob Kay. “The Bike Builder Shootout gives builders a dedicated platform to showcase the time, skill, and innovation behind their machines while being recognized alongside some of the most talented builders in the industry. We’re excited to be part of a program that celebrates the people pushing motorcycle customization forward.”
The new Motorcycle category joins the four existing automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BF Goodrich Young Guns. Automotive finalists will continue to compete in their own competition and will have a separate Battle of the Builders overall winner.
The expansion into motorcycles reflects SEMA’s continued commitment to growing opportunities across the specialty equipment industry and expanding the powersports presence at the SEMA Show. As SEMA continues to develop its powersports footprint, the Bike Builder Shootout highlights the innovation, craftsmanship and creativity driving the future of customization.
Attendees at the 2026 SEMA Show will be able to experience the Bike Builder Shootout and Battle of the Builders competition live in Central Hall, which will showcase some of the most innovative vehicles and builders in the industry. Registration details for the SEMA Show are available at www.semashow.com/register.
The 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers will take place during the SEMA Show, Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas. For more information or to enter the competition, visit www.semabotb.com.
LOS ANGELES, CA (08.13.26) – Massive Audio is proud to announce the launch of the DSP48, a powerful 4-input, 8-output digital signal processor engineered to give car-audio enthusiasts and professional installers precise control over every part of an audio system.
The DSP48 combines advanced sound-processing capabilities with a straightforward mobile interface for iOS and Android devices. Users can tune, configure, and manage their systems wirelessly through Bluetooth without relying on complicated desktop software.
“Many digital signal processors provide powerful features but make system tuning unnecessarily difficult,” said John Velez of Massive Audio. “We designed the DSP48 to deliver professional-level control through an interface that is easier to understand and faster to use.”
Advanced System Control
The DSP48 provides four input channels and eight independently adjustable output channels, allowing installers to configure complex multi-amplifier and multi-speaker systems.
Key features include:
4-channel input and 8-channel output
Selectable 1- to 15-band parametric equalization
Bluetooth control through iOS and Android devices
High-pass and low-pass crossover controls
Selectable crossover frequencies, filter types, and slopes
Digital time alignment
Independent output-level and phase adjustment
Six memory presets
USB/MP3 media playback
Three programmable remote-output sequencers
Installer password protection
High-level and RCA signal inputs
Built-in 8-volt line driver
The programmable remote-output sequencer can activate amplifiers in separate stages, helping reduce electrical surges and unwanted turn-on noise in large multi-amplifier systems.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.12.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, today announced the musical lineup for SEMA Fest, taking place Friday, Nov. 6, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Headlined by multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring, the lineup also features anthemic alt-rockers Jimmy Eat World, genre-blending rock reggae outfit 311, and California rock band The Alive. Together these chart-topping, arena-caliber acts will bring their catalog of massive hits to SEMA Fest, delivering the ultimate intersection of high-octane and high-decibels, a one-day celebration of the long-standing bond between music and car culture that closes out SEMA Week with an unforgettable public experience.
Early bird pre-sale tickets are available July 15, with the general on-sale kicking off this Friday, July 17, at 10 am PT via www.semafest.com. General admission and VIP concert access tickets are available, as are combined tickets, offering entry to both SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday public access. This exclusive bundle gives automotive enthusiasts rare access to the world’s largest automotive aftermarket trade event – typically reserved for industry insiders – alongside performances from some of today’s biggest bands.
“SEMA Fest represents where our industry is headed, at the crossroads of innovation, lifestyle, and cultural relevance,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “By bringing together the world’s premier automotive gathering with iconic music, immersive automotive experiences, and enthusiast access, we are creating a powerful platform that expands the reach of car culture, strengthens engagement with new audiences, and sends SEMA Week out on a high-energy, high-impact note.”
SEMA Fest serves as the official “closing ceremony” of SEMA Week, transforming the world’s premier automotive trade show into a massive public celebration and extending the energy of the SEMA Show into a day-long experience.
The day begins inside the Las Vegas Convention Center, where attendees can explore the SEMA Show floor, including 2,000-plus exhibiting brands and vendors, thousands of custom builds, and the latest in automotive products and technology.
As the day continues, the action moves outdoors for the legendary SEMA Cruise and high-intensity motorsports demonstrations that keep the excitement building throughout the afternoon.
Then, as the sun sets, attention turns to the SEMA Fest Stage, where live music and automotive adrenaline come together in one immersive environment. The automotive excitement continues into the evening with featured vehicle displays and motorsports performances that keep car culture front and center through the final encore.
2026 Musical Lineup Multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring bring decades of Southern California punk-rock energy to SEMA Fest. Formed in Garden Grove in 1984, the band is known for their generation-defining hits such as “Self Esteem,” “Come Out and Play,” “The Kids Aren’t Alright,” and “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy).” Widely credited with helping revive mainstream interest in punk rock during the 1990s, The Offspring has sold more than 45 million records worldwide.
Jimmy Eat World adds its signature anthemic alternative-rock sound to the lineup. The band broke through globally with “The Middle,” which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart and became one of the defining rock songs of the early 2000s.
311 brings its unmistakable blend of rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop influences to the main stage. The band has released 14 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records in the United States, and remains known for crowd favorites such as “Down,” “Amber,” and “All Mixed Up.”
The Alive rounds out the bill with a fresh California rock sound rooted in surf, skate, and hard-driving live performance. The band cites influences including Black Sabbath, Nirvana, Rush, and Queens of the Stone Age, making them a fitting addition to a lineup built on energy, edge, and attitude.
Featured Experiences The evening’s adrenaline will be amplified by world-class automotive demos, including drifting demonstrations from OPTIMA and the high-energy Globe of Death.
Supercar Saturdays Florida returns to SEMA Fest with a curated showcase of rare hypercars and exotic vehicles following its debut SEMA Fest appearance in 2025, where it presented an exclusive hypercar and supercar display.
For the latest updates, follow @SEMAFestOfficial on social media or visit www.semafest.com.
BOCA RATON, FL (08.12.26) – Upgrade your Audi without replacing the Factory Experience
“A customer loves their Audi, but the technology feels dated.”
What if you could give your customers’ Audi the technology of a brand-new vehicle—without sacrificing the factory look, controls, or functionality?
In our newest product demonstration, Steve Cope, ZZ2 Sales Manager, walks through one of our most popular upgrades: transforming a 2016 Audi A6 equipped with the factory 6″ display into a modern 10.25″ DIZZPLAY HD touchscreen.
During this hands-on demonstration, Steve explains why DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement is much more than just another aftermarket screen. Designed specifically for BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles, DIZZPLAY preserves the factory systems your customers already trust while delivering the modern connectivity they expect.
In this video, you’ll learn: ✔ Replacement without being too intrusive, while preserving the factory aesthetics.
✔ How DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement retains factory Bluetooth, microphone, steering wheel controls, and OEM integration.
✔ The benefits of the ultra-fast zOS operating system and MFI Certified Chip made for iPhone.
✔ Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto functionality.
✔ Why dealers are choosing DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement over generic Android screen solutions.
✔ How a simple upgrade can completely transform the driving experience.
The result is a larger, high-definition touchscreen that looks like it belongs in the vehicle from the factory—only smarter, faster, and more connected.
DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement combines OEM integration with wireless smartphone connectivity, HD touchscreens available in multiple sizes, front and rear camera support on select models, USB media playback, and a 3-year warranty backed by U.S.-based technical support.
Whether you’re introducing DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement to your showroom, adding it to your installation catalog, or helping customers modernize older luxury vehicles, this video is an excellent resource for learning how to present its value with confidence.
▶ Watch the Full Product Walkthrough on YouTube Explore the features and discover why DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement is becoming the premium screen replacement solution for Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz owners
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.12.26) – HEW Powered Subwoofer Systems are loaded with premium ELITE Series subwoofers, engineered to deliver deep, commanding bass that hits harder than ever. This isn’t just sound — it’s low-end punch you feel in your chest. Unlock richer layers of heavy bass impact, adding intensity, punch, and authority to every track with HEW.
With a built-in high-output amplifier engineered to deliver clean, controlled bass right out of the box, every HEW Powered Subwooferbrings serious power, commanding volume, and precision sound that transforms your system. Designed for seamless installs in tight spaces without sacrificing impact — this is ELITE BASS, built to hit harder.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (08.11.26) – The dB Drag Racing Association is proud to welcome back Deaf Bonce by Alphard Group as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals, taking place October 3–4, 2026.
As we begin announcing the companies supporting this year’s Finals, we’re excited to start with a partner that has helped shape the sport for years.
After a full season of competition, the world’s loudest competitors will hit the lanes for the final event of the year, competing for Championship Trophies, Championship Rings, and ultimate bragging rights. The 2026 Finals will feature several formats of competition, including dB Drag Racing, Bass Race, Top Dog, Freestyle, and Psychlone.
It’s fitting that Deaf Bonce will once again be there to support the competitors when it all comes down to this final weekend. With a worldwide reputation for producing competition-proven subwoofers, amplifiers, and speakers built for serious performance, Deaf Bonce has become a familiar name in high-level car audio competition. Their continued investment in the car audio community and unwavering support of dB Drag Racing has made them an integral part of the Finals experience.
Vladimir Mukhin of Deaf Bonce shared:
“We’re proud to return as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals. Every season leads to this moment, where the best competitors come together to push the limits of performance. We’re excited to support the competitors and be part of another unforgettable Finals weekend.”
We appreciate Deaf Bonce’s continued partnership and commitment to our competitors, promoters, and the entire car audio community.
And there’s even more happening in Indianapolis.
The 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals will be co-located with IASCA and ISPLL in Indianapolis, bringing multiple organizations of car audio competition together under one roof for an exciting weekend of competition.
The dB Drag Finals will feature concurrent competition locations in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Spruce Grove, Alberta. Competitors at both locations will compete against one another through the Term-LAB measurement system, allowing competitors in different locations to participate in the same Finals competition and compete for the same Championship titles and awards.
Stay tuned as we continue unveiling the outstanding sponsors and partners helping make the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals the loudest weekend of the year.
October 3–4, 2026 Indianapolis, Indiana & Spruce Grove, Alberta
SASKATOON, SK (08.11.26) – Firstech Canada announced the appointment of Scott Haseniuk as Business Development Manager – Automotive, Western Canada.
Scott brings more than 25 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket and specialty 12-volt industries. Since 2000, he has built a strong career across the automotive aftermarket, gaining extensive experience in accessory sales, installation operations, and dealer support. He later went on to lead installation operations at one of Firstech’s top-performing dealers in Central Alberta, helping drive successful operations and deliver quality solutions to customers.
Having spent his career working alongside installers, sales teams, and dealers, Scott understands the day-to-day challenges and opportunities involved in building a successful 12-volt business. His hands-on technical knowledge, process-driven approach, and passion for helping customers succeed make him an exceptional resource for our dealer network.
“At Firstech Canada, our success is built on the success of our dealers. Supporting our partners’ growth across Western Canada was a key priority, and we wanted to invest in an experienced professional who could provide meaningful support and help our dealers capitalize on new opportunities,” said Benjamin Riboreau, Director of Sales & Strategic Operations, Firstech Canada. “Scott’s industry experience, technical expertise, and commitment to building lasting relationships make him an outstanding addition to our team. I know many of you will quickly recognize the value he brings, and I’m excited for you to get to know him.”
In his new role, Scott will work closely with dealers throughout Western Canada to support business growth through product training, sales development, technical guidance, and ongoing account support. Whether you are looking to expand your remote start and security business, explore new connected car solutions, or simply have a trusted resource to support your team, Scott is here to help.
“I’m truly honored to join Firstech Canada. The company is an innovative industry leader with a passionate, forward-thinking team that is committed to mutual growth and success with its dealer network and industry partners,” said Scott Haseniuk. “I have worked across various areas of the aftermarket automotive and specialty 12-volt industries since 2000, gaining valuable insight and experience that allows me to understand and support the needs of our dealers. I’m very much looking forward to helping our current and future clients reach their full potential.”
If you have not yet had the opportunity to meet Scott, we encourage you to reach out and introduce yourself. He will be connecting with dealers across the region over the coming weeks and looks forward to building strong relationships with our partners.
Majed Awad (R) traveled to Denton TX to deliver the Apollo Authorized Plaque to Adrian Salazar.
DALLAS, TX (08.11.26) – Apollo Window Film is proud to present Adrian Salazar of the North Texas Tint Institute with an Apollo Authorized plaque, recognizing the school’s longstanding partnership with Apollo Window Film. The North Texas Tint Institute is recognized as one of the premier window tint training schools in the nation, helping develop the next generation of professional window film installers.
“Adrian Salazar and the North Texas Tint Institute have been using Apollo Window Film products for more than 16 years, making their relationship with Apollo one built on experience, trust, and a shared commitment to quality and professional installation. We appreciate working together to grow the window film industry” Maged Awad relayed.
Apollo Window Film is proud to support educators and installers who continue to raise the standards of the window film industry.
FT. MYERS, FL (08.10.26) – GENEVO America is thrilled to announce the addition of industry veteran David McKee as Director of Sales. Mr. McKee joins GENEVO with deep industry experience, having served as a Regional Sales Manager for K40 for eight years, prior to joining the company. In his new role, McKee will help lead the next phase of GENEVO America’s growth, building out the dealer network and expanding the brand’s footprint across the North American 12-volt market.
“One of the advantages I see at GENEVO is that everything is done in house,” says McKee. “The technology, the engineering and the install technicians are all in the same building, so getting products to market, receiving feedback and providing updates is an incredibly efficient process. It was one of the most impressive aspects of the company that led me to sign on.”
The high-end radar and laser detection brand was founded in the Czech Republic in 2011 and with its overseas success arrived in the North American markets early this year. GENEVO features the MAX portable detector, the PRO II and PRO II DUO installed radar detectors, and the LP laser defense system. The MAX and PRO II series both come with a bevy of features, including a GPS database of stationary speed and red-light cameras. This free database is updated monthly.
McKee was impressed with GENEVO’s commitment to keep their customers informed and protected. “In a subscription-heavy world, our database will be free for life. I also like the exceptional level of support GENEVO offers. There are people available that support both the dealer and the end user. Its done right.”
Ray Woolf, CEO of GENEVO America, praised McKee’s deep industry experience and track record of driving both technical and financial account performance. Partnering with McKee reflects Woolf’s collaborative dealer-first, mindset. “Now we can start talking about programs and numbers,” Woolf noted, “and be a little more out-of-the-box where it makes sense.”
“I know the extensive training that he went through to perfect his craft and his art. It was a very clear decision for me to bring him on,” explained Woolf. “He thoroughly supports the vision of the brand. We are a 12-volt-first company, and that mindset shows up in everything from how we engineer our products to how we support our dealers. With David helping lead our growth, we think that approach will move the entire industry forward.”
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