Metra Unveils Sound Stage Brand, Expands Audio Kit Lineup and Introduces New Subwoofer Power Packs at SEMA 2026

HOLLY HILL, FL (10.29.26) – Metra Electronics will unveil Sound Stage, the new brand identity for its established Audio Kit lineup, at the 2026 SEMA Show. Metra will also showcase new vehicle-specific Audio Kit applications, introduce all-new Sound Stage Subwoofer Power Packs, and display VIBE Audio components available individually. The event will take place November 3–6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Sound Stage Audio Kits
Attendees can hear two of the newest Sound Stage Audio Kit applications in a Ford Bronco and Chevrolet Silverado at booth #10439 in the North Hall. Both demo vehicles will feature complete Sound Stage systems, allowing SEMA attendees to experience the difference these vehicle-specific solutions can make.

Now offered under the Sound Stage name, each vehicle-specific Audio Kit provides a complete path to better sound without replacing the factory head unit, while remaining compatible with an aftermarket head unit if desired.

Each Sound Stage Audio Kit takes the guesswork out of building a complete system by combining matched VIBE Audio amplifiers and speakers, vehicle-specific DSP tuning, and a subwoofer and enclosure selected for the intended vehicle. Every audio component is engineered to work together, delivering clear highs, detailed midrange, and deep, controlled bass tailored to the vehicle’s interior.

Metra and Axxess integration and installation products complete the solution. Depending on the application, each kit includes plug-n-play harnessing, speaker adapters, amplifier mounting racks, wiring, detailed instructions, and other vehicle-specific components needed to simplify installation.

New applications joining the Sound Stage Audio Kit lineup include:
GM-PPKT-2: 2019–2026 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab, non-amplified
FD-PPKT-3: 2021–2024 Ford Bronco, non-amplified
FD-PPKT-4: 2021–2024 Ford Bronco with B&O amplified audio system
FD-PPKT-5: 2021–2024 Ford Bronco Raptor with B&O amplified audio system

The new Ford Bronco and non-amplified Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra Sound Stage Audio Kits are in stock and shipping now. They join existing Audio Kit options for the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, and Bose-amplified Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra models—all now offered under the Sound Stage name.

Sound Stage Subwoofer Power Packs
Metra will also introduce four all-new Sound Stage Subwoofer Power Packs designed to add powerful low-frequency performance while retaining the factory radio and vehicle functionality. Each Sound Stage Power Pack combines a vehicle-specific Axxess integration solution, a VIBE Audio PB650.1D-V4 monoblock amplifier, and a Raptor 4-gauge amplifier wiring kit. All four Power Packs will be in stock and shipping by the start of the 2026 SEMA Show.

The included VIBE Audio Class D amplifier delivers up to 650 watts at 1 ohm and pairs with a compatible OE-fit or universal subwoofer enclosure. This flexible format lets installers choose an enclosure and subwoofer that best fit the vehicle, available space, and the customer’s listening preferences.

New Sound Stage Subwoofer Power Packs include:
CDJ-SUB-KT1: Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep 2007–2025; amplified and non-amplified systems
FD-SUB-KT1: Ford 2006–2025; non-amplified systems
GM-SUB-KT1: Chevrolet and GMC 2019–2026; amplified and non-amplified systems
TY-SUB-KT1: Toyota, Scion, and Subaru 1987–2023; non-amplified systems

The CDJ-SUB-KT1, FD-SUB-KT1, and GM-SUB-KT1 utilize the Axxess AXSUB interface and a vehicle-specific T-harness for integration behind the factory radio. The AXSUB provides a two-channel, non-fading 5-volt RMS output, remote turn-on output, fixed low-pass frequency, and an included bass knob.

The TY-SUB-KT1 uses an Axxess AXLOC interface with vehicle-specific harnessing to provide two channels of low-level audio output from the factory system. It includes a gain controller and signal-sensing remote turn-on output.

VIBE Audio Components Available Separately
Installers can now purchase select amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, and enclosures featured throughout the Sound Stage Audio Kit lineup separately. These individual products provide greater flexibility when designing a custom system, expanding an existing installation, or selecting components for applications not covered by a complete Sound Stage Audio Kit.

The following enclosures, speakers, and subwoofers are in stock and shipping:

Enclosures
GM-SL1-10: OEM-fit 10-inch subwoofer enclosure for 2019–2026 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab
JP-GL1-12: OEM-fit 12-inch subwoofer enclosure for 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator JT
FD-F150-10: OEM-fit 10-inch subwoofer enclosure for 2015–2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew
TY-TAC1-10: OEM-fit 10-inch subwoofer enclosure for 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
BAMIT12-V4: 12-inch subwoofer enclosure for 2007–2026 Jeep Wrangler JK and JL and 2021–2026 Ford Bronco

Speakers and Subwoofers
SLICK1-V4: 2-inch dome tweeters, 150 watts peak
CVEN2.7M-V4: 2.7-inch midrange speakers, 80 watts peak
OPTI6-V4: 6.5-inch midrange speakers, 270 watts peak
SLICK6SQM-V5: 6.5-inch mid-bass driver speakers, 270 watts peak
CVEN69MW-V4: 6-by-9-inch speakers, 260 watts peak
BA10D2S-V3: 10-inch shallow subwoofer, 900 watts peak, dual 2-ohm
BA12D2S-V3: 12-inch shallow subwoofer, 900 watts peak, dual 2-ohm

Amplifiers
PB100.4M-V0: Four-channel Class D amplifier
PB650.1D-V4: Mono Class D amplifier, 1-ohm stable
PB80.6-8DSP-V3: Six-channel DSP amplifier, 8-channel DSP control

These new Sound Stage Audio Kit applications and all-new Subwoofer Power Packs will be on display during the 2026 SEMA Show at Metra’s booth, #10439 in the North Hall. Visit the Vehicle Fit Guide at MetraOnline.com for the most up-to-date vehicle-specific application information.

2026 SEMA Show to Debut Content Creator Corral Celebrating the Voices That Shape Automotive Culture

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.29.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show will debut the Content Creator Corral, a new feature that recognizes the growing influence of automotive creators by bringing some of the industry’s most engaging influencers and their custom vehicles in one dedicated space at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Nov. 3-6.

Located in the Main Hall Annex, the Content Creator Corral expands on Road to SEMA, an initiative that follows creators as they travel long distances to bring their projects to the annual SEMA Show. The feature builds on the journeys and brings those stories to life, allowing attendees to see the vehicles up close and connect with the influencers behind them.

As creators play an increasingly important role in shaping vehicle customization trends and purchasing decisions, the showcase provides exhibitors, manufacturers and attendees with a fresh opportunity to engage directly with influential voices shaping automotive culture.

“Automotive creators are helping introduce new audiences to vehicle customization and the specialty-equipment industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “Road to SEMA gave us a chance to share their journeys with a wider audience, and the Content Creator Corral builds on that by bringing the creators and their vehicles together at the Show. It’s a chance for attendees to meet the people behind the builds and see firsthand what makes the automotive aftermarket community so special.”

The Content Creator Corral will feature custom vehicles from creators across the United States and abroad, representing a wide range of makes, models and builds. The lineup includes vehicles that have traveled thousands of miles and crossed international borders to reach Las Vegas.

Examples include a Ford Mustang rebuilt in Lithuania after being purchased in Florida; a BMW Z3 M Coupé transformed into a Max Power-era Club Sport-inspired showpiece; a Porsche Boxster converted into the Vale Automotive GT1 in Northern Ireland; and a Ford Escort RS Cosworth traveling 3,500 miles across the United States. The lineup also includes a KVA Ford GT40, Porsche 944 RS4 and genuine “2 Fast 2 Furious” Yenko Camaro restored by Hard Up Garage.

Beyond the vehicles themselves, the Content Creator Corral highlights the people, creativity and dedication that drive automotive culture. Attendees can meet the creators behind the builds, hear their stories, and connect with others who share their passion.

CONTENT CREATOR CORRAL PARTICIPANT QUOTES

Ciro Ciampi – @petrolheadonism
“Getting to share an iconic build with the SEMA community in person is a pretty special experience. We collectively put in so much time, work and passion into our project with all our partners, so seeing people connect with it and hearing their reactions will make all the effort worthwhile.”

Jordan Graff – @shipbox_garage
“My SEMA journey began with me as an outsider to the organization – literally, because I didn’t have the industry connections yet to be an official part of the SEMA Show – so it’s an honor to be part of history as one of the content creators being featured at the Content Creator Corral.”

Marissa Halee – @marissahalee
“My Mustang has been a huge part of my life for the past 11 years and ever since I got the car, I’ve dreamed of one day having it in the SEMA Show. It’s surreal to finally say that this year, my dream is becoming a reality alongside other incredible content creators!”

Tom Sylvester – @thedirtdrive
“As a lifelong enthusiast, I’ve dreamed about having a car I’ve worked on displayed at the SEMA Show. This opportunity to represent our shop, Dirt Nerds Motors, and the off-road community is an honor.”

Kaikea Wilinski – @ranchero_racing_co._
“Having the opportunity to showcase my car at the SEMA Show has a lot of significance to me, because back in the early years of the show, my grandfather, Hank the Crank, was one of the first vendors. I’m deeply appreciative for the opportunity to continue his legacy.”

The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas, as the centerpiece of a “SEMA Week” experience that culminates with public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest. To learn more or register, visit www.semashow.com.

The 2026 SEMA Show opens on Election Day, Nov. 3. SEMA’s Drive the Vote campaign encourages attendees to make a plan to vote before traveling to Las Vegas. Visit www.sema.org/vote for more information.

Rydeen Rolls into SEMA 2026 with New TOMBO Digital Mirrors, MiNy360X, and a Custom VANkulture Pacifica

TORRANCE, CA (10.29.26) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics will debut the new TOMBO 360TX and TOMBO 360DX at the 2026 SEMA Show, alongside the MiNy360 Series and its AHD Digital Platform. The centerpiece of Booth #10109, North Hall, is a custom Chrysler Pacifica built by VANkulture, equipped with the TOMBO 360TX and ready for live demos.

The Van
VANkulture’s Pacifica debuted in August at Roadkill Nights as one of two Pacifica concepts Chrysler unveiled. It’s lowered 2.5 inches on 20-inch Vossen wheels and runs a custom ProCharger on its 3.6L V6.

Inside, it’s all Rydeen. The TOMBO 360TX gives the driver a 360-degree surround view with proximity radar, right in the rearview mirror. Take the driver’s seat, see the surround view in action, and talk installation with the Rydeen team.

Chrysler brought the platform. VANkulture brought the style. Rydeen brings the vision.

“We wanted our SEMA booth to show our products in action,” said Phil Maeda, President and CEO of Rydeen Mobile Electronics. “The Pacifica lets dealers and installers see our technology where it belongs: installed in a vehicle and keeping the driver safer.”

The SEMA Lineup

  • TOMBO 360TX (new): A 360-degree surround view digital rearview mirror with proximity radar, 3-channel recording and two external waterproof cameras.

  • TOMBO 360DX (new): The same surround view and radar platform with 2-channel recording and one external waterproof camera.

  • MiNy360X ($289 MSRP): A hardwired 360-degree dash cam with proximity radar, built for install shops and fleets.

  • MiNy360 ($199 MSRP): 360-degree recording in a 12-volt plug-and-play model, with proximity radar available as an add-on.

  • AHD Digital Platform: One scalable safety platform that connects Rydeen’s mirrors, dash cams and cameras, so shops can start with one product and build to a complete system.

Book a Meeting, Get a Gift
Book a booth appointment before November 3 and pick up a free mystery gift at the show. Email sales@rydeenmobile.com or call 310-787-7880.

2026 SEMA Show | November 3–6 | Las Vegas Convention Center | Booth #10109, North Hall

Visit www.rydeenmobile.com and www.vankulture.com for more.

2026 SEMA Show to Debut Content Creator Corral Celebrating the Voices That Shape Automotive Culture

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.27.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show will debut the Content Creator Corral, a new feature that recognizes the growing influence of automotive creators by bringing some of the industry’s most engaging influencers and their custom vehicles in one dedicated space at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Nov. 3-6.

Located in the Main Hall Annex, the Content Creator Corral expands on Road to SEMA, an initiative that follows creators as they travel long distances to bring their projects to the annual SEMA Show. The feature builds on the journeys and brings those stories to life, allowing attendees to see the vehicles up close and connect with the influencers behind them.

As creators play an increasingly important role in shaping vehicle customization trends and purchasing decisions, the showcase provides exhibitors, manufacturers and attendees with a fresh opportunity to engage directly with influential voices shaping automotive culture.

“Automotive creators are helping introduce new audiences to vehicle customization and the specialty-equipment industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “Road to SEMA gave us a chance to share their journeys with a wider audience, and the Content Creator Corral builds on that by bringing the creators and their vehicles together at the Show. It’s a chance for attendees to meet the people behind the builds and see firsthand what makes the automotive aftermarket community so special.”

The Content Creator Corral will feature custom vehicles from creators across the United States and abroad, representing a wide range of makes, models and builds. The lineup includes vehicles that have traveled thousands of miles and crossed international borders to reach Las Vegas.

Examples include a Ford Mustang rebuilt in Lithuania after being purchased in Florida; a BMW Z3 M Coupé transformed into a Max Power-era Club Sport-inspired showpiece; a Porsche Boxster converted into the Vale Automotive GT1 in Northern Ireland; and a Ford Escort RS Cosworth traveling 3,500 miles across the United States. The lineup also includes a KVA Ford GT40, Porsche 944 RS4 and genuine “2 Fast 2 Furious” Yenko Camaro restored by Hard Up Garage.

Beyond the vehicles themselves, the Content Creator Corral highlights the people, creativity and dedication that drive automotive culture. Attendees can meet the creators behind the builds, hear their stories, and connect with others who share their passion.

CONTENT CREATOR CORRAL PARTICIPANT QUOTES

Ciro Ciampi – @petrolheadonism
“Getting to share an iconic build with the SEMA community in person is a pretty special experience. We collectively put in so much time, work and passion into our project with all our partners, so seeing people connect with it and hearing their reactions will make all the effort worthwhile.”

Jordan Graff – @shipbox_garage
“My SEMA journey began with me as an outsider to the organization – literally, because I didn’t have the industry connections yet to be an official part of the SEMA Show – so it’s an honor to be part of history as one of the content creators being featured at the Content Creator Corral.”

Marissa Halee – @marissahalee
“My Mustang has been a huge part of my life for the past 11 years and ever since I got the car, I’ve dreamed of one day having it in the SEMA Show. It’s surreal to finally say that this year, my dream is becoming a reality alongside other incredible content creators!”

Tom Sylvester – @thedirtdrive
“As a lifelong enthusiast, I’ve dreamed about having a car I’ve worked on displayed at the SEMA Show. This opportunity to represent our shop, Dirt Nerds Motors, and the off-road community is an honor.”

Kaikea Wilinski – @ranchero_racing_co._
“Having the opportunity to showcase my car at the SEMA Show has a lot of significance to me, because back in the early years of the show, my grandfather, Hank the Crank, was one of the first vendors. I’m deeply appreciative for the opportunity to continue his legacy.”

The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas, as the centerpiece of a “SEMA Week” experience that culminates with public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest. To learn more or register, visit www.semashow.com.

The 2026 SEMA Show opens on Election Day, Nov. 3. SEMA’s Drive the Vote campaign encourages attendees to make a plan to vote before traveling to Las Vegas. Visit www.sema.org/vote for more information.

KICKER Was Livin’Loud At The EnduroCross In Everett WA

EVERETT, WA (10.26.26) – The EnduroCross brought the action to the Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett WA on Saturday, October 24th. Over 50 riders were on site for afternoon trial runs to qualify for the 16 places for the evening EnduroCross Race.

The EnduroCross is one of the wildest sports on 2 wheels, combining the challenging obstacles of an Enduro with the tight confines in a family friendly event in the stadium setting. Riders race over rock beds, huge logs, tractor tires, and other extreme obstacles making it the most unprecedented motorsport event on 2 wheels.

KICKER was set up in the lobby with this booth. Lorin Morrell, Jonah from Car Toys Everett WA and Mike Hall-Crossover Marketing (L/R) are set in the booth.
The track is being prepared for the EnduroCross.

KICKER was on site as an event sponsor with Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, setting up the KICKER booth and product display in the lobby showcasing KICKER products for auto and motorsports. The action in the arena was intense on Saturday with the excited crowd. Morrell was joined in the booth by Mike Hall from Crossover Marketing and Jonah from Car Toys Oregon’s Everett WA location.

“It was terrific to have Mike and Jonah in the booth to connect with members of the large crowd that stopped by the booth in the lobby. Jonah, assistant manager at the Everett location, was very engaged and handed out a ton of business cards plus invited attendees to drop by the store. Mike is on the road with Crossover in the territory and knows the KICKER products from top to bottom” Morrell related.

Riders navigating the track on Saturday night.
Riders navigating the track on Saturday night.

The preparation to set the track for EnduroCross events is nothing sort of crazy. Bulldozers and cranes on site place rocks and huge logs on the track along with tractor tires for the riders to navigate in the tight turns and launching over ramps. The action on the track was absolutely amazing and riders were careful not to crash into fallen riders.

“Overall the Everett WA EnduroCross was terrific. The crowd topped 3,500 and energy was everywhere as many were looking for upgrades for their rides. They saw KICKER has the products for their rides” Morrell concluded.

The EnduroCross 2026 series continues with events in Salt Lake City, UT Idaho Falls, ID.

For more see kicker.com.

KICKER Sales Representatives Earn Awards During RepFest at Headquarters

STILLWATER, OK (10.26.26) – Thirty-six domestic Sales Representatives serving 13 firms earned company awards during KICKER’s annual RepFest last week. This one was the first rep meeting held at KICKER world headquarters in Stillwater, Oklahoma since 2014. KICKER RepFest is held prior to the SEMA Show each year as an exchange of information and feedback for the upcoming sales year.

Four men posing together indoors, holding an award plaque for 'Rep Firm of the Year' from Kicker, with a modern interior background.
Pictured are Crossover Marketing Group’s (L to R) Rob Sutton, Sam Sutton, and Mike Hall, along with KICKER West Regional Manager Tracy Focht. Not pictured is co-principal Paul Pilat.

The 2026 KICKER Rep Firm-of-the-Year is Crossover Marketing Group (Battle Ground, Wash.), representing the brand in the U.S. Northwest. Crossover is a four-member company consisting of reps Rob Sutton and Paul Pilat (co-principals), Mike Hall, and Sam Sutton.

KICKER’s Rep-of-the-Year for 2026 is Richie Holtzman of Tech Marketing (Raleigh, N.C.), representing KICKER in the Southeast.

A man and a woman posing together inside a modern building, holding an award certificate. The man is wearing a green polo shirt and black shorts, while the woman is wearing a maroon jacket and blue jeans.
KICKER Southeast Regional Manager Lori Boyer with Tech Marketing’s Richie Holtzman (right), the brand’s Rep-of-the-Year.

Both winners were honored among many deserving individuals per usual, as many of KICKER’s rep firms and sales reps have been working with the brand for numerous years.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile- and home-audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com.

Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, X.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or YouTube/@kicker-audio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.

Modus Grows Product Lines & Accelerates Growth in the 12 Volt Industry

OXNARD, CA (10.23.26) – Modus, a leader in lifestyle and solution-based mobile and marine audio infotainment technology, is proud to announce it is shipping its latest dedicated and high-performance mobile and marine audio solutions. At the same time, it is widening its strategic OEM partnerships, nationwide dealer, distributor and rep network reach.

“As we progress through Q4 and our latest products are now shipping, we are preparing to launch our next round of mobile and marine audio solutions, with an emphasis on collaborating closely with our channel partners,” said Matthew Delgado, Director of Sales. “The recent IBEX 2026 Expo was a success as we featured our full marine lineup for the first time. We are also pleased to announce that our new AIM-7 and AIM-10 source units are now available, while we work on the completion of our new Portale amplifiers.”

In addition, Modus will soon be selecting a limited number of dealers to test its new Apex premier series in the next couple months, reinforcing the trust and value Modus has for its dealer input. Dealers should inquire with their reps to be a part of this opportunity.

Modus continues to outline and announce the next phase of its growth with a planned early-2027 Apex family launch, including the Class A/B amplifier, speakers, and subwoofer, and growing mobile and marine dealer bases.

“These initiatives reflect Modus’ ambition to earn a lasting leadership position through differentiated products, continued development, and long-term industry relationships,” Delgado continued. “This synergistic approach ensures that every partner, from regional representatives to local retail dealers, is equipped with the tools and inventory needed to succeed in a competitive market.”

By aligning closely with its distribution network, Modus guarantees that consumers receive unparalleled products, service, and expertly tuned audio solutions.

“With an ever-changing 12 volt audio landscape, the continued growth and development of the Modus brand outlines how we are doubling-down on our commitment to be the premier premium mobile and marine audio solution,” added Jason Digos, Senior Product Testing and Validation Manager. “What dealers see from Modus today is a fierce foundation and hardcore determination. Modus may be a new brand, but the DNA in our R&D, engineering, sales, training, marketing teams, and channel partners go back decades.”

Technology remains central to the brand’s commitment to the 12-volt industry. As Modus rolls out its next-generation product lineup, the company looks forward to expanding mutual growth opportunities with its invaluable partners, driving the future of mobile audio forward together.

“Modus continues to push boundaries, ensuring that drivers no longer have to compromise on audio fidelity while on the move,” concluded Joz Wang, VP of Marketing.

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.

The 12voltBeat Celebrates 16 Years

THE 12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (10.22.26) – The 12voltBeat Newsletter, delivering fresh industry news, is mailed twice weekly to subscribers across the 12volt industry. The 12volt industry is based in music and good music definitely has a beat. Thus the 12voltBeat newsletter is a natural to deliver fresh positive news to thousands across the 12volt industry. There is no charge to subscribe.

Click here to subscribe to the free 12voltBeat

Reporters walk the beat in their areas to gather and deliver the news of the day. The 12volt Central Studios staff has been walking the beat across the industry for parts of 6 decades. Today the news is delivered digitally across the US and around the world.

The 12volt Central Studios launched the 12voltSTP tool over 3 years ago. The 12voltSTP Tool makes it easier than ever for industry members to deliver news of their products and activities that ever before. With a Smartphone it just takes snapping an image and txting the image, with a few words, to 318-469-2526. PRESTO…your company’s news could be in the 12voltBeat.

The 12voltBeat newsletter is emailed early on Monday and Thursday mornings to thousands of industry members who have subscribed. The 12voltBeat newsletter features industry news from the previous days.

There is no charge to receive the 12voltBeat… So sign up today by scanning the QR Code.

Click here to subscribe to the free 12voltBeat

VAIS Technology Introduces CAN Bus-Integrated Push-to-Start System for LS and Coyote Swaps

ENGLEWOOD, CO (10.20.26) – VAIS Technology, a manufacturer of OEM-grade vehicle integration and access systems, announced the release of its new CAN Bus Push-to-Start System engineered specifically for restomods and engine swap builders. Built on the latest generation Push-to-Start architecture launched earlier this year, this latest solution integrates directly with GM LS and Ford Coyote platforms to streamline the installations.

Engine swaps in restomods and custom builds have traditionally required complex wiring for tachometer sensing and park position. The new VAIS system reads RPM signals and transmission gear status directly from the vehicle’s CAN bus network. By decoding digital engine data, the unit ensures starter engagement only occurs when the engine is stationary, and the transmission is in Park or Neutral—eliminating external converters, complex wiring, and extensive labor hours.

“Our goal with this platform is to bridge modern OEM electronic sophistication with the high-performance restomods market,” said Eugene Kaspin, President at VAIS Technology. “By pulling tach and neutral safety status straight off the CAN bus for LS and Coyote platforms, we eliminate the failure points and installation headaches, delivering a cleaner installation for custom shops.”

  • The new system is built on VAIS Technology’s core Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) foundation:
  • Direct CAN Bus Integration: Direct digital reading of tachometer and neutral safety parameters for GM LS and Ford Coyote platforms.
  • Passive & Remote Keyless Entry: Automatic unlocking on approach, walk-away lock, and conventional remote button control.
  • Encrypted Anti-Theft Security: Advanced multi-frequency communication engineered to prevent relay-attack exploits.
  • Depleted Battery Fail-Safe: Built-in backup allowing engine start even with a dead key fob battery.
  • Trusted by Car Manufacturers: Designed in-house and trusted by ultra-high-end vehicle manufacturers worldwide for factory-grade reliability.

VAIS Technology plans to expand engine management compatibility further in upcoming software revisions, with support for GM LT platforms and Haltech ECU architectures scheduled for release in the coming months.

The CAN Bus Push-to-Start System is available immediately:
https://vaistech.com/push-to-start-system-classic-car-can-bus/

The Fall Bagger Nationals Cranked It Up In Daytona Beach

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (10.19.26) – The Fall Bagger Nationals Audio Competition took place at the Hard Rock Hotel in Daytona Beach on Saturday, October 17th. One of the competitors loaded KICKER SOLO X on his bike.The energy of the bikers, exhibitors and enthusiasts was amazing!”

The Bagger Nationals Audio Competition is the premier motorcycle audio event held in the heart of Daytona Beach, set against the iconic backdrop of the Hard Rock Hotel grounds. The event celebrated innovation, craftsmanship and passion for top-tier bike audio systems, bringing together competitors and enthusiasts from across the region.

KICKER was among the event sponsors and set up an exhibit booth in the Hard Rock Hotel lobby and outside on the patio. On-site Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, spent time in the booth as well as outside connecting with competitors and motorcycle enthusiasts.

The Sponsors Tent set up and ready for the event.
The KICKER booth in the lobby spotlighted KICKER products ideal for Livin’Loud bike installations.

“Early Saturday morning there were showers and the wind picked up causing problems with booth tents. Later in mid-morning bikes lined up for the competition to get underway. Throughout the day, nearly 100 bikes competed and there was so much energy on site.” Morrel shared.

Through the day, crowds of enthusiasts listened to the bikes cranked up and playing loud and checking out the cool projects.

Competition classes included Featherweight, Lightweight, Welterweight, Middleweight, Heavyweight, and Extreme Class. The Extreme Class featured a first-place $1,000 payout plus a Heavyweight Belt. The total cash payout for the Fall 2025 Bagger Nationals was $7,000.

Bagger Nationals is a motorcycle audio competition created around builders, competitors and machines pushing motorcycle sound systems to another level. The result is an event built around motorcycle audio, the people that built it and the competitors willing to put their systems to the test.

Lorin Morrell and Chris from Limitless Lithium flank the second place finisher by his amazing project.

Sponsors of the event included Limitless Lithium, SoundCubed, Elite Sounds, DS18, Miller Lite, Clare, Galeforce Audio, Nemesis Audio and KICKER.

For more, see baggernationals.com.