PRV Training At SSR In Houston

HOUSTON, TX (09.03.26) – The SSR meeting/training was held on Wednesday night, August 26 from 7PM to 8:30 PM, with food and raffle prizes plus each dealer got a gift bag with catalog, new product brochure, lanyards, PRV micro fiber towel and a PRV PS15 Bluetooth speaker. Jeff Fletcher, National Sales Manager, conducted the meeting.

“A portion on the SSR warehouse was set up for the training of over 20 in the house.There was a Bronco with an active demo with 4 of the PRV MT8CX680CF-NDY-4 speakers playing powered by a MDX2000.4 2 ohm amplifier rocking as attendees walked in. The SSR staff did a great job setting everything up” Jeff Fletcher related.

Jeff Fletcher upfront conducting the training.
Jeff Fletcher began the training with a history of PRV Audio’s Brazilian roots.

At the beginning of the meeting, Fletcher conducted an introduction to the PRV brand for dealers that may not have been familiar with a visual presentation of the company’s history and unique attributes. When the meeting got underway, Fletcher focused on the PRV series of Speakers and Amplifiers going over things like power handling, product number decoding and applications with tonalities. During each portion of the training, a sample of the product being discussed was passed around so all could get the feel and touch.

As the training wrapped Jeff Fletcher present a raffle drawing winner a PRV Audio 6 Bundle Bullet prize. The packed goodie bag in his other hand.

As the trending closed, Fletcher took the customer sign-in sheet and did random drawings for prizes that included a MDX800.
4 2 ohm amp, PRV car detail kit and a 6 bundle bullet package.

“SSR, with locations in Houston and Dallas, is doing a great job with the PRV line in their territory and I feel like the training was very successful” Fletcher concluded.

For more see PRVaudio.com.

Systematic Power Solutions Appoints Crossover Marketing Southeast for Five States

HOUSTON, TX (09.03.26) – Crossover Marketing Southeast is pleased to announce its appointment as the new manufacturers’ representative for Systematic Power Solutions d/b/a XS Power Batteries, JY Power Batteries, and Lithium Pros Batteries throughout the TOLAM market.

Crossover will represent the complete Systematic Power Solutions brand portfolio across Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi, providing dealer development, account support, product education, territory coverage, promotional support, and long-term sales-growth initiatives.

The Systematic Power Solutions portfolio provides power solutions for automotive, mobile electronics, marine, powersports, racing, commercial, and specialty vehicle applications. Through its brands: XS Power Batteries, JY Power Batteries, and Lithium Pros Batteries, the company offers battery, lithium, charging, and power-management solutions designed for demanding applications and professional installation environments.

“We are excited to represent Systematic Power Solutions throughout the TOLAM market,” said Shawn Simpson, Principal Owner of Crossover Marketing Southeast. “This portfolio gives our dealers credible power solutions for everything from mobile electronics and performance vehicles to marine, powersports, and specialty applications. We’re ready to build coverage, support accounts, and create new opportunities across the territory.”

The new partnership strengthens Crossover Marketing Southeast’s ability to provide dealers with comprehensive power-management solutions while expanding Systematic Power Solutions’ representation and support throughout the region. The companies will work together to develop new dealer relationships, enhance product knowledge at the retail and installation level, support promotions, and build sustainable market growth across the territory.

“Crossover Marketing Southeast’s industry experience, established dealer relationships, and hands-on approach make the team an excellent fit for our organization,” said Shawn Mayo, Vice President of Sales for Systematic Power Solutions. “We look forward to working with Shawn and the Crossover team to expand dealer coverage, strengthen account support, and build long-term growth throughout the territory.”

Authorized dealers and prospective retail partners interested in adding XS Power Batteries, JY Power Batteries, OR Lithium Pros Batteries, should contact Crossover Marketing Southeast for product information, dealer opportunities, and training support.

Learn more at www.crossovermktg.com.

Tires And Wheels Accelerate Momentum For 2026 SEMA Show

DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.03.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show is picking up speed, with strong exhibitor demand and continued growth across key categories, especially in tires, wheels, and related service technologies. For professionals focused on this critical segment of the automotive aftermarket, this year’s Show offers an expansive look at the latest innovations shaping performance, styling, and shop operations.

The SEMA Show’s dedicated Global Tires Expo and Wheels & Accessories sections, located in South Hall Lower of the Las Vegas Convention Center, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a central hub for retailers, installers, distributors, and builders. Attendees will have access to a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the needs of today’s evolving vehicles and consumers.

The strength of the category is reflected in findings from the annual SEMA Market Report, which shows that the U.S. wheels and tires aftermarket is a $6.8 billion market. The report also found that the broader wheels, tires, and suspension category totals $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

From high-performance tires and off-road applications to custom wheels, tire service equipment, balancing systems, alignment technologies, and shop management solutions, the Global Tires Expo and Wheels & Accessories sections will highlight innovations driving advancements across both product performance and operational efficiency. As vehicle platforms diversify and consumer expectations rise, the tire and wheel category continues to see rapid innovation.

The SEMA Market Report also underscores the importance of professional installers within the category. While consumers continue to personalize their vehicles, professional installation remains critical, particularly for off-road tires and wheels, where fitment, vehicle setup, and performance requirements often require specialized expertise.

The Global Tires Expo and Wheels & Accessories sections are anchored by brands that have helped define the market and have been exhibiting at the SEMA Show for many years. This includes tire manufacturers such as Atturo, Kenda, and Maxxis; iconic wheel brands like Cragar, Konig, MV Forged, Raceline, RTX Wheels, and Vision Wheel; and key tire industry technology providers including Autel, Coats, Corghi USA, and Hunter Engineering. Their continued presence reinforces the Show’s role as a long-standing gathering place for both heritage brands and emerging innovators.

“Tires and wheels are foundational to vehicle performance, safety, and customization, and they continue to evolve at a rapid pace,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “From advanced tire compounds and all-terrain designs to cutting-edge wheel styling and shop technologies, the tires and wheels sections showcase the full scope of innovation. The combination of legacy brands and forward-looking companies highlights the strength and future of this segment.”

Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have already surpassed 1 million net square feet, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the United States, reflecting strong growth and investment across the automotive aftermarket.

The 2026 SEMA Show will also feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, tools, and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket opportunity.

Attendees can also explore signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders, and FutureTech Studio, offering insight into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of automotive performance and design.

The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3–6 in Las Vegas, as part of the broader “SEMA Week” experience, which includes public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest.

To learn more or to register, visit www.semashow.com.

Audio Xperts Connected At The Unity For The Lowrider Community Show

SACRAMENTO CA (09.02.26) – Audio Xperts is a long-standing proactive 12volt retailer in Vacaville CA.

On Saturday, August 29th Vince Miranda headed out to the Unity For The Lowrider Community Show and Concert presented by Tradicionals Car Club at William Land Park. The event was mere 35 miles from the Audio Experts store. Audio Xperts was set up with a company tent and spotlighting brands sold in the store including Alpine and Sound Skins.

The Audio Xperts booth set up with the QR code to register for a raffle ticket spotlighted up front.
Vince Miranda pictured with the raffle winner for the Sound Skins tool kit.

“This was such a great event to have our store set up as we actually have several customers who have their vehicles on display at the show…which had over 600 cars on display. We had a raffle for 2 Alpine products and a Sound Skins tool kit. At the show our raffle was centered on attendees scanning our QR Code and following us on social media platforms to get a ticket for the raffle drawing” Miranda related.

Vince awarding the raffle winner for the ALPINE R2-S652R series 6.5 Pro 2-way component set.
Vince awards the raffle winner for the Alpine R2-W12D4 series 12” dual subwoofer to the lady on the right who was doing promo activities for the event. Luckily, she had a friend to carry the prize.

“We also use the QR code in the store with a photo to be scanned instead of handing out business cards. When scanned I have loaded my contact info then directly into their phone when they scan. We also have the QR code on the back window of our Tesla that people can scan events also. The code was provided by Linq. When scanned it populates all Audio Xpert info and social media links as well as a link to photos. All in all the Lowrider Super Show was terrific for is to engage with enthusiasts. A big thank you to Greg Douglas and Driven Marketing for their support” Vince added.

The QR code featured on the back window of Vince’s Tesla.

In today’s AI and web driven world engaging with consumers is of paramount importance. Vince definitely understands the importance of the in-store experience along with offering professional installation.

For more see facebook.com/AudioXperts

Big Power, Precision Audio – Polaris Ranger Tuned Systems from MB Quart

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (09.02.26) – Polaris RANGER Tuned Systems are engineered to deliver bold, BIG,precise sound that stands up to the toughest trail conditions wherever the outdoors lead to. Whether you are hitting dunes, ripping through woods, or just enjoying the ride, these tuned systems bring your music to life, designed for cleaner sound in every beat and a LOUDER punch in audio. HEAR MORE on any adventure!

MB Quart RANGER Tuned systems are designed to fit and perform in the RANGER’s rugged environment. From IP-rated speakers and amps to vehicle-specific mounting hardware — feel crisp highs to deeper bass for a dynamic audio listening experience.

Plug-and-Play wiring harnesses and custom mounting panels make installation straightforward for DIY enthusiasts. Enjoy POWERFUL STAGE 2 RIDE COMMAND integration and deep-thumping subwoofer and additional speaker options — these kits
deliver premium audio built for the trail.

To learn more, click here.

Leno’s Law Passes California Legislature

DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.02.26) – Leno’s Law (Senate Bill 1392), an important touchpoint in the fight to preserve California’s rich automotive heritage, has passed the California Legislature with a historic, bipartisan 49-4 vote. The bill, sponsored by noted car enthusiast and namesake Jay Leno and the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom for consideration.

  • Leno’s Law seeks to provide a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to smog check exemptions for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. The exemption would be phased in over several years and would apply only to vehicles that meet specific collector-use requirements.

Leno’s Law is authored by Sen. Dave Cortese, with Sen. Shannon Grove as a principal coauthor. Its passage through both chambers of the California Legislature represents the most significant progress in over 20 years to deliver collector-vehicle smog check reform on behalf of California’s car enthusiasts, automotive restorers, and anyone for whom a vehicle has represented a cultural or family touchstone. Importantly, support for Leno’s Law has transcended party lines, uniting Democrats and Republicans, lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses, and enthusiasts.

“This bipartisan victory is a product of California’s automotive community uniting to remind the state’s lawmakers of the cultural significance of our cars and trucks, and of our sacred charge to pass this shared heritage on to the next generation,” said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. “We are grateful for Senators Cortese and Grove for their stewardship of this bill, and to Jay Leno for lending his name and passion on behalf of every car enthusiast and small business with a personal stake in preserving our automotive heritage. SEMA and California’s automotive community have one more request, and we respectfully ask Governor Newsom to finish the job and sign Leno’s Law.”

“California can protect clean air without erasing our automotive history. A classic car that spends most of its life in a garage and comes out for a parade, car show, or charity event is not the same as a daily commuter, and our laws should recognize that,” said Sen. Cortese. “SB 1392 brings common sense back to the smog-check system, protects a treasured part of California culture, and gives classic car owners a fair shot at preserving these pieces of history. We’ve cleared the Legislature. Now it’s time to put ‘Leno’s Law’ on the Governor’s desk and get it signed.”

“For generations of California families, classic cars have brought grandfathers, fathers, sons, and daughters together, from the shade-tree mechanic working side by side with their grandchild, to the enthusiast who gets behind the wheel and is instantly taken back to their glory days,” said Sen. Grove. “After years of working to find a solution that protects California’s classic car culture while addressing the state’s requirements, Leno’s Law gets us there. It is a focused, commonsense bill that keeps true collector vehicles in California, supports the small businesses that restore and celebrate them, and removes a burdensome requirement so enthusiasts can get back to what they do best, restoring and enjoying these pieces of California history. I am proud to stand with Sen. Cortese, Jay Leno, SEMA, and collectors across the state as we take this effort to the finish line.”

BACKGROUND
Leno’s Law establishes a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to a smog-check exemption for certain older vehicles. Under the bill, beginning Jan. 1, 2028, qualifying collector vehicles (those manufactured before model year 1981) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. This exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model year 1986. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill’s collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or be able to verify the vehicle is driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The bill does not change California’s existing exemption for pre-1976 vehicles.

The effort to secure passage of this bill won support from all corners of California’s automotive culture and reached enthusiasts and preservationists from other countries. California’s lowrider community sent over 1,700 letters in support of the legislation, while the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile’s (FIA) International Historical Commission backed the bill, highlighting its balanced approach to automotive preservation and California’s environmental objectives.

California remains a globally recognized cultural epicenter for America’s automotive heritage, immediately identifiable through decades of images of classic cars and trucks traversing on California’s roads and highways, from the desert to the coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and the state’s automotive aftermarket industry supports nearly 150,000 jobs, annually generates more than $40 billion in economic impact, and delivers $13 billion in wages and benefits while contributing $6 billion in taxes.

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

KICKER Was Livin’Loud At Jeep Fest 2026

The KICKER booth with the XRV stretches a football field into the background.

OCEAN CITY, MD (09.01.26) – KICKER returned for the 9th-year as The Title Sponsor of the annual Ocean City JEEP FEST, a celebration of all things Jeep, the owners and Jeepers who love them. The annual Jeep Festival in Ocean City was Livin’Loud August 27th – August 30th. Jeep owners, fans and the public hit the picturesque beaches of Ocean City to show off and admire the infinite ways Jeep vehicles can be enjoyed and customized.

The KICKER XRV rolled into the Convention Center after the 1400 mile trip from Stillwater OK with Jeremy Wynn and Steven Bambrough in the cab. KICKER’s new National Sales Director Matt Matheson was in the house. Territory rep firm Opus Marketing was in the house with Jamie White, Chuck Ottati, Todd Ess and Greg Boylan. Darren Thomas and his team from AudioWorks of Delaware handled sales and onsite installations under a long line of tents.

Jeepers lined up at the AudioWorks of Delaware booth.

KICKER was set up on a large footprint at the Roland E Powell Convention Center by the main gate with the XRV featuring the subwoofer packed Boom Room. Many loaded Jeep demos stretched the length of the booth with AudioWorks installation tents and sales tables set up. Customized AudioWorks of Delaware store vehicles, along with customer’s Jeeps, stretched for nearly a football field.

Alison Hicks was the Winner of the KICKER toy Jeep. Attendees registered to win the toy Jeep and people lined up to register to win.

Jamie White, Opus Marketing Principal, related “The energy throughout the event was amazing. There was always traffic in the booth and off site too on the beach and light shows in the evenings plus sand courses, all was Cookin’ at the Park too. KICKER provided a tremendous party atmosphere for everyone at the 2026 OC JEEP FEST!” White also contributed super images in this article.

This amazing stove loaded with KICKER Marine products was given away at The Farm party Friday night. Alyssa Gunn was the winner of the drawing and as Brad Hoffman, the Show Promoter, made the announcement.

“Once again the OC Jeep Fest was great for us. Rain knocked us out on Friday but the weather was perfect the rest of the event. Every year we see past customers and our fiends from the area. Yesterday, Monday, we were slammed with followup business from the event. During the event we closed our store our 5 member team did installs all day and into the evening. Danny Remer from Poptronics came to help also. Everyone at KICKER and OPUS were so helpful too!” Thomas related.

This special cup passed out by the Opus team at the Jeep Fest was the entry ticket for 300 Jeepers to attend the party at The Farm Friday night.

“Steven and I always enjoy spotlighting the XRV and this year’s OC Jeep Fest event was very special… Looking forward to 2027” KICKER’s Jeremy Wynn, Events and Promotions Manager, stated.

See more at kicker.com for more.

TOPDON USA Introduces Free Lifetime Software Updates Now Available on Four Diagnostic Tools

FAIRFIELD, NJ (09.01.26) – TOPDON USA announced that the ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag now include free lifetime software updates. Effective August 18, 2026, current and future owners of these tools can keep their diagnostic software up to date without paying additional update fees.

“Our team believes in developing the most capable diagnostic technology while creating a quality product ownership experience,” said Chad Schnitz, vice president at TOPDON USA. “That’s why we’re providing free lifetime software updates on four of our most popular diagnostic tools. This upgrade will make it easier for customers to keep their tools current, capable, and ready to tackle their evolving repair needs without having to worry about additional update fees. It’s another way we’re helping customers get more value from their TOPDON tools.”

Previously, the ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag included two years of free software updates. Under the new policy, current and future owners will receive software updates for the supported life of their tools at no additional cost.

  • ArtiDiag700: Supports full-system diagnostics for more than 70 vehicle brands, CAN FD protocols, and FCA, Nissan AutoAuth, and VAG SFD security gateway access. AutoVIN, live data, and 15 service functions support routine maintenance and advanced repairs.
  • ArtiDiag800 BT 2: Offers full-system diagnostics, bidirectional control, and 28 service functions, including oil resets and window calibration. Bluetooth connectivity enables convenient wireless vehicle communication.
  • ArtiDiag900 Lite: Empowers technicians to overcome the limitations of wired systems, providing unmatched flexibility and convenience. Supports 8 maintenance services and full system diagnostics across 60+ brands.
  • UltraDiag: Capable of performing full OBD2 capabilities, accessing 30 commonly used maintenance services, and supporting full-system diagnostics for 100+ car brands; it includes the Repair Data Library to quickly locate faulty parts.

The ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag are available through TOPDON’s national distribution network.

Current ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag owners can update their software by connecting to Wi-Fi and downloading the most recent software update from the home screen. New units will include lifetime software update access automatically.

For more information, visit www.topdon.us.

California Legislature Passes SEMA-Backed Bill To Speed Aftermarket Products To Market

DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.01.26) – The California Legislature has passed a landmark, SEMA-sponsored bill that will create a new conditional sales pathway for aftermarket emissions-related products to reach the market while under consideration for the state’s full approval for sales.

SB 1069, authored by Sen. Tim Grayson (D-Concord) and now headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom for his consideration, represents a thoughtful approach that maintains California’s emissions standards while creating meaningful improvements for manufacturers that invest in compliance.

  • SB 1069 applies to emissions-related automotive aftermarket products that require a CARB Executive Order (EO) before they can be legally sold, advertised, or installed in California. An EO confirms that a product has demonstrated compliance with the state’s applicable emissions requirements and is therefore eligible for sale in the California market.

“SB 1069 will give manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful pathway to get qualifying products to market faster in California, and enable new products to reach consumers, provide small businesses with certainty to invest, and keep American companies competitive,” said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA greatly appreciates CARB’s willingness to work collaboratively with us on SB 1069 to craft common-sense legislation that will bolster the automotive aftermarket industry, help California maintain its emissions standards, and support the small businesses who rely on certainty as they establish themselves in a highly competitive marketplace. We also thank Sen. Grayson for his leadership in guiding this legislation through the legislature.”

ABOUT SB 1069
The bill would grant conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install qualifying products to manufacturers who submit complete EO applications to CARB, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation. This conditional approval would remain in place while CARB completes its final review.

This new pathway would help aftermarket manufacturers bring qualifying products to market faster in California, while preserving California’s emissions standards and CARB’s authority to review applications and ultimately approve or deny an EO.

Specifically, SB 1069 would create a new conditional approval process for qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products:

  • Manufacturers would submit a complete CARB EO application supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation.
  • Qualifying applicants could receive conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install covered products while CARB completes its final review.
  • CARB would retain its authority to ultimately approve or deny the EO, and California’s existing emissions standards would remain unchanged.

If signed by Gov. Newsom, SB 1069 would take effect on January 1, 2027, with the program in place by July 1, 2028.

BACKGROUND
For decades, SEMA has helped aftermarket manufacturers navigate California’s emissions requirements and lawfully bring products to market.

The SEMA Garage provides manufacturers with emissions testing, engineering expertise, and compliance assistance, and over the past eight years, it has assisted with approximately 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB and completed more than 800 EO applications on behalf of member companies.

Of the 7,000 automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide that SEMA represents, more than 1,200 are California manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. California’s specialty automotive aftermarket generates $40.44 billion in economic output, supports more than 149,000 jobs, delivers $13.47 billion in wages and benefits, and pays $6.16 billion in state and local taxes.

  • The automotive aftermarket is predominantly comprised of small businesses that continually invest in new products, technology, engineering, and compliance. SB 1069 would help qualifying manufacturers bring compliant products to California customers sooner.

SEMA has a lengthy track record of supporting emissions compliance at the federal level and in California. This includes more than $30 million invested in emissions compliance through the SEMA Garage program, including Emissions Compliance Centers in Diamond Bar, Calif., and Plymouth, Mich.

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

XS Power Joins As The Official Power Sponsor For The 2026 Finals!

AUSTIN, TX (08.31.26) – Indianapolis just got a massive surge of energy! We are thrilled to announce that XS Power is on board as the Official Power Sponsor for the 2026 championship weekend.

Known worldwide for providing the power competitors depend on when pushing their systems to the limit, XS Power is stepping up in a major way for this year’s Finals. With dB Drag Racing, IASCA, and ISPLL coming together in Indianapolis, XS Power is sponsoring the electrical service that will be available to all competitors across all three organizations competing at the Indiana State Fairgrounds!

What this means for the championship weekend:

  • Electric Access Included: Electrical service will be available for competitors to plug in and charge.
  • Support Across All Organizations: Whether you are competing in dB Drag Racing, IASCA, or ISPLL, electric service is included.
  • Event-Wide Presence: Look for XS Power branding throughout the lanes, on the event shirts, and on sponsor banners across the venue.

When competitors are pushing their builds to the limit, power matters. We couldn’t ask for a better partner to sponsor this important part of FINALS weekend.
 
We appreciate XS Power’s dedication to the competitors, promoters, and the entire car audio community. Their support is helping bring together competitors from dB Drag Racing, IASCA, and ISPLL for an incredible championship weekend in Indianapolis.
 

When you see XS Power online, be sure to drop a comment and thank them for helping power the 2026 Finals!
 
October 3–4, 2026 | Indiana State Fairgrounds | Indianapolis, Indiana
 
For more information on XS Power: https://4xspower.com
 
For more information about the 2026 dB Drag Racing Finals, registration, and event details, visit dbdrag.com