DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.18.22) – The record-high sales growth over the past two years for the automotive specialty-equipment industry is beginning to level off or subside, according to the newest SEMA market research report. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, supply-chain issues, and rising costs, companies remain optimistic as sales remain solid and above pre-pandemic levels.
“Businesses experienced record-high growth the past two years,” said Gavin Knapp, SEMA director of market research. “We saw growth that was above the industry’s norm, so it makes sense that we’re returning to more normal levels. It’s great to see that most companies are up from 2019 levels.”
Conducted every six months since 2021, the “SEMA State of the Industry” studies are designed to give companies clarity about the overall market during an uncertain time. The disruption from the pandemic made it difficult for members to understand what the market was going through and nearly impossible to forecast. Based on data from the automotive specialty-equipment industry, the reports give readers a barometer to gauge how they are currently doing and make predictions about what’s to come.
The newest Fall 2022 version finds that 47% of manufacturers, 48% of distributors, and 44% of retailers expect sales to increase in the coming year. Additional findings include:
Supply-chain issues continue to be disruptive for the industry. Over 90% of companies say that they are having a moderate or significant impact on operations.
Inflation and the supply-chain issues are resulting in higher costs for businesses. More than 90% of companies reported an increase in supplier or production costs; most (around 80%) are compensating for the high costs by increasing their prices. Despite this, consumer demand and revenue remain strong.
Ongoing supply-chain issues and high prices are slowing new vehicle sales. Sales are not expected to return to pre-pandemic levels until 2024 or 2025. Sales for 2022 are expected to fall about a million vehicles short of 2021, at 13.9 million total units. The average price of a new vehicle reached $48,301 in August 2022, a record high. The average price of an electric is even higher, at over $66,000.
The complete “State of the Industry—Fall 2022” report is available to download for free at www.sema.org/research, and it will be discussed in depth during the SEMA Show seminar “State of the Specialty-Equipment Industry: Trends and Directions,” on Tuesday, Nov. 1, at 11:00 a.m. in Room N254.
LAKE HAVASU CITY, AZ (10.17.22) – KICKER Marine Audio headed to Lake Havasu City, AZ and joined its local dealer and fans for the Lake Havasu Formula 1 Classic Outboard Championships October 14-17, which featured two days of high-horsepower racing excitement in three classes: Formula 1, Tri Hull and Formula Lite division. The race was sanctioned by the American Powerboat Association (APBA) and draws international powerboat racing stars.
KICKER Marine Audio was the presenting sponsor for the October 14 Friday Night Pit Party Meet & Greet from 4-8 pm at the Nautical Beachfront Resort. Fans got to mingle with the drivers and crews in the cold pit area to learn more about the racers and their equipment. Great music was broadcast through the KICKER Marine Audio system while fans enjoyed a vintage boat display, food, beverages and vendors. This special event was free and open to the public.
When fans arrived they had a chance to experience a wide variety of KICKER products including car, powersports, motorcycle, life style and marine.
The Classic Outboard Championships have become a Lake Havasu tradition, drawing competitors from every corner of the globe for high stakes cash and prizes. Racing action began on Saturday October 15 with testing and qualifying races in all three divisions, followed by the Championship Grand Finale on Sunday, October 16. The races started at 11 AM MST and were live streamed on the F1 Powerboat Championship Facebook and YouTube channels. Race headquarters at the Nautical Beachfront Resort, 1000 McCulloch Boulevard N, overlooking Thompson Bay offered FREE front and center racecourse viewing on the beach front. The exclusive Mercury Racing Rooster Tail VIP Experience on the resort’s lakeside terrace offered another exclusive tier of fan excitement.
When racing got underway fans sitting on top of the KICKER BoomToon had ringside seats.
KICKER Marine Audio also co-sponsored the Formula 1 Race Ride Experience, an opportunity for select, lucky fans who entered the Facebook or Instagram contest to get the thrill of riding in a specially built 2-seat Formula 1 boat that was used as the series pace boat for the races. The company was also a sponsor of the Kids on the Colorado River Program – Racing Edition Educational Pod place at Thunderbolt Middle School on Monday, October 17, before the Championship awards dinner.
KICKER Marine Audio, and its local dealers Elite Audio, and vendors have long been active in Lake Havasu through the performance boating Annual Desert Storm Poker Run and rally. The Classic Outboard Championships event, promoted by the Formula 1 Powerboat Championship Series, gave KICKER Marine Audio and music fans the opportunity to mix high-octane sound with high-speed racing action.
Fans could sign up on Instagram and Facebook hit the lake in this specially built 2-seat Formula 1 boat that was also the pace boat for the races.
Dan Murphy of MurfCo. Inc. KICKER Marine Audio’s long-time Manufacturers Rep Group that coordinates distributor and dealer representation in the southwest region, teamed up with Lake Havasu’s custom installers Elite Audio’s Jeff Cuvelier at the event. Murphy and partner Frank Zepeda’s “Boom Toon,” a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge complete with a slide and party poles, was at the docks. The Boom Toon will join Jeff’s Rinker Flotilla Deckboat, both featuring top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio speakers, subwoofers, amps and more, emphasizing the company’s tagline, “Livin’ Loud!“ Murphy was joined at the booth by Liam Carney and Lorin Morrell who were available for questions. MurfCo and local dealers have long-time KICKER audio affiliations including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who was a pioneer in the 12-Volt, mobile audio world.
The specially built 2-seat Formula 1 boat making a big wake.
“KICKER Marine Audio enjoys bringing our high-performance sound to those who love high-performance boating,” stated Jeremy Bale, KICKER brand manager. “Many racers, their fans and powerboaters already know KICKER from its decades as a mobile audio leader and probably use our components in their tow vehicles, ATVs and motorcycles. We have long-time dealers, distributors and installers in the Lake Havasu area so the races are a great opportunity for us to see old friends and make new ones.”
The Elite Audio boat was available for fans to check out…in the KICKER booth during set up on Friday.
All KICKER Marine Audio’s can enclosures are tough, UV-treated and come in black and white to complement a boat’s color scheme, complete with LED lights and accessories. Horn-Loaded Tower Systems, speakers, subwoofers, amps and media centers are only part of the line, so when you are ready to “KICK” up your sound system, rely on KICKER Marine Audio to deliver the finest quality acoustics and marine-grade components. www.kicker.com/marine-audio.
For Additional Information on the Lake Havasu Classic Outboard Championships visit f1powerboatchampionship.com or the f1powerboat championship Facebook page. Online VIP Tickets, RV Spots – seeboldsports.com/shop
A big 12volt Central Studio’s THANK YOU to Lorin Morrell for input and images covering the KICKER Marine Audio event at Lake Havasu.
SHREVEPORT LA (10.015.22) WTF…Win This Friday. Clear Vibrations won the PowerBass Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 200 on Friday morning, October 14th.
The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 4. Reaching 200 Spins is a special milestone. Knowing there are 200 happy winning dealers across the 12volt industry is a very bright spot in these crazy times.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 200th time on Friday morning October 14th. The Wheel landed on the PowerBass space and the Clear Vibrations slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out to Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA. Owner Ben Turansky was not in but we gave the news to Randy. Randy said he will pass the news along to Ben. Erik Harbour at PowerBass will be sending a BT-50 Sound Cube prize.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, AIS, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, JBL, RDV Automotive, Kenwood, JVC, USASpec and Nakamichi. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.
Pulling a winning 12volt Spin-To-Win slip out of the jar each Friday is fun.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA, Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH and D’Sanz Tint N Zound in Escondido CA .Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, October 21st.
CLEARWATER, FL (10.14.22) – Borla Exhaust, a world-leader in performance exhaust systems, partnered with AudioControl, known in the vehicle aftermarket industry for its high-performance audio solutions, to bring the Borla Active Performance Sound™ System to life. David Borla, VP, Marketing and Sales at Borla, had a vision to bring the sensory excitement that driving enthusiasts have grown to expect from Borla, now to EV drivers. Electric Vehicles lose an element of driver excitement with the loss of audible exhaust. With its many years of audio processing expertise, AudioControl was able to develop state-of-the-art technology needed for Borla to add that excitement back to the EV driving experience.
Years in the making, Borla’s Active Performance Sound System, utilizes a proprietary Borla algorithm that takes into consideration the vehicle’s speed, power, RPM, torque and load with zero latency. It was developed using professional recordings of actual Borla equipped internal-combustion (ICE) vehicles. Multiple microphones capture all characteristics of ICE audio, including idle, ramps to redline, cruising, throttle lifts, “burbles & pops” and more. Using real-time data from the EV’s internal computer, the Borla System generates a hyper-realistic ICE soundtrack that perfectly matches the EV motor status and other vehicle dynamics. The System perfectly pairs with a mobile app where drivers can select from multiple Borla sound technologies including ATAK, S-Type and Touring all with full control over volume and other characteristics.
“Sound, vision and touch are the 3 senses we use for sport driving and without the real-time feedback of motor and vehicle dynamics through soundwaves and vibration much of that experience is missing,” stated David Borla, who prior to his 25 years at Borla Exhaust was a professional musician. “This product is actually an instrument, in more ways than one. It’s like an audio tachometer that provides drivers with that real-time feedback, and it’s also like a musical instrument that plays an exciting soundtrack which enhances the driving experience giving the vehicle personality and a sense of soul” Borla said, adding “Afterall, who wants to watch ‘Fast n’ Furious’ movies or play ‘Forza’ with no sound? They go to great lengths to ensure sound is prevalent in those mediums for a reason.”
Don Zaney, Vice President, Product Development at AAMP Global (parent company of AudioControl) said, “We were honored when our OEM partners recommended us to Borla. Once the two companies met, we were convinced it was the perfect marriage of capabilities to bring this amazing new product to life. Throughout the development and testing process it was our number one goal to maintain the highest standards in our areas of expertise; CAN bus integration, digital sound processing and amplification technology”
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.13.22) – Vehicle electrification is a continuously growing automotive trend, and some states are actively pushing consumers to transition from ICE to EVs. In fact, California has recently mandated 35% zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) sales by 2026 and banned all new non-ZEV sales by 2035, while Washington has set a target of 2030 to phase out the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered vehicles.
With that in mind, in 2019, SEMA’s forward thinking led to the creation of a dedicated “SEMA Electrified” Show section, which highlighted the endless possibilities in the electric market. It returned with a larger presence in 2021 following the 2020 COVID-19 hiatus. Last year, electrification projects and products could also be found in virtually every hall, with conversion platforms including ’60s sedans and musclecars, early Broncos and square-body Chevys, Bonneville racers, sand rails and Baja prerunners. While still a small fraction of the hundreds of builds at the Show, their existence on the Show floor heralded the beginning of a new era in the specialty-equipment aftermarket—and one that holds great promise for aspiring builders and customizers looking to leverage this latest technology to create new revenue streams.
This year’s Show will feature an even more expanded SEMA Electrified section. Located in the North Hall, Booth #11268, the specialized exhibit area will feature the latest advancements in EV technology, including new products and solutions for EV platforms and conversions. In addition to SEMA Electrified, EV projects and products will again be displayed throughout the Show floor. Also, the SEMA Show New Products Showcase—consistently voted as the No. 1 destination by buyers and media—will add a new category for products related to EVs.
The younger generation in particular seems to be enthusiastic about EVs. In fact, 14-year-old Frances Farnam of Tinkergineering stopped by the SEMA Garage earlier this year with her ’76 Porsche 914, which she and her dad are restoring and converting to electric. It will be showcased at SEMA Electrified as an EV project in progress.
“The EV aftermarket is evolving quickly; we’re curating a unique collection of the latest products related to electric vehicles and the aftermarket,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “SEMA Electrified will help businesses see the latest trends and understand how the EV market continues to change. We have also added many new education sessions centered around the EV marketplace so visitors will gain an understanding of the advancements and opportunities for the future.”
Although alternative powertrains currently represent just 1% of the 250 million cars, SUVs and light-duty trucks in operation on American roads, sales and interest in EVs are increasing rapidly. According to recent SEMA Market Research, the electric market includes several areas of opportunity for the aftermarket, including the development of parts and products to aid in the conversion of older internal-combustion vehicles; building and modifying new project, racing and purpose-built vehicles; and expertly accessorizing new OEM electric offerings. SEMA is dedicated to helping its member companies identify those opportunities and adapt to the growing segment of the industry.
EV Conversion Companies Exhibiting This Year
The number of EV conversion companies exhibiting this year continues to flourish, and more players will enter the space each year as consumer demand increases. Here is a sampling of some of the EV-conversion and related companies that are scheduled to exhibit at the 2022 SEMA Show as of press time. Visit www.SEMAShow.com for future updates.
The Atom Drive EV system from Ampere EV utilizes a homebuilt Advanced Control System to support a full compliment of EV components sourced from third parties such as Tesla and Cascadia. Customers can build their own system by choosing from a range of batteries, chargers, wiring options and LED screens. (888-984-7601, www.ampereev.com)
APP EV Systems, a division of Advanced Performance Parts, designs, builds and sells turnkey EV conversion kits for classic cars that are engineered to OE specifications. Applications for Porsche 911s, BMW E9s and Chevrolet C2 Corvettes, among others, are available later this year and early 2023. (360-935-1228, ppevsystems.com)
Autel Energy now offers the MaxiCharger home 40- and 50-amp AC plug-in wallbox Level 2 EV chargers, smart chargers that are compatible with all EV and hybrid plug-in vehicles. The chargers offer adjustable charging up to 40–50 amps, depending on model. (855-288-3587, www.autelenergyus.com)
Electric GT offers turnkey E-Crate conversion systems to replace four-, six, or eight-cylinder ICE vehicles. (619-717-6009, www.electricgt.com)
Hypercraft USA offers turnkey electric drive systems for everything from one-off builds to scaled commercial production. (208-670-7289, www.hypercraftusa.com)
Legacy EV has an EV conversion kit for virtually any gas-powered vehicle manufactured since 1900. Legacy also offers a variety of individual components for EV conversions, and educational programs for technicians as well. (602-518-3223, legacyev.com)
Motorcadd specializes in EV conversions for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and vans. (352-223-1723, www.motorcadd.com)
Scorpion EV converts Mk4 roadsters from Factory Five Racing to full EV power using a Tesla Model S drivetrain. All the customer needs to do, the company says, is select their roadster’s color, and Scorpion will handle the rest. (www.scorpion-ev.com).
EV-Related Education Sessions at the Show
The 2022 SEMA Show will feature more than 70 education sessions, some of which will focus on vehicle electrification. Examples include:
PHILADELPHIA, PA (10.12.22) – The first of the 3-Series Compustar trainings, hosted by Opus Marketing, took place at Top Golf in Philadelphia the evening of Monday, October 10th.
The Top Golf locations provide a terrific venue for the Compustar trainings.
There were 90 people in attendance from Opus Marketing dealers in the area.
“The turnout was terrific with 90 people from area dealers attending. So many across our industry have missed in-person events over the last couple years. Attending a Compustar training to prepare for the season, at a Top Golf facility, was a great formula. Jason Ewing’s presentations on remote start, Maestro and DroneMobile definitely covered the bases. After the training and dinner attendees stayed to network and hit some golf balls on the range too,” Jamie White related.
Jason Ewing, Bruno Berg and Chuck Ottati paused for a quick image with the Top Golf range in the background Monday night.
After the training and dinner many attendees relaxed by the Top Golf driving range.
Bruno Berg and Chuck Ottati connected with dealers throughout the evening. Berg related, “This was such a great way to get the remote starter season going. Seeing the tables full and dealers standing in the meeting area was terrific to see.”
Opus Marketing dealers attending the Compustar training enjoyed dinner and dessert after the training. Many stayed to hit some balls on the range.
There are 2 more Compustar trainings this week at area Top Golf locations. Oxon Hill MD on Wednesday the 12th and Richmond VA on Thursday the 13th. The trainings begin at 6pm with dinner at 7:30. Chuck Ottati and Todd Ess are looking forward to seeing dealers at these Compustar training sessions.
STILLWATER, OK (10.11.22) – KICKER Marine Audio is heading to Lake Havasu City, AZ to join its local dealers and fans for the Anderson Toyota Lake Havasu Classic Outboard Championships October 14-17, which features two days of high-horsepower racing excitement in three classes: Formula 1, Tri Hull and Formula Lite division. The race is sanctioned by the American Powerboat Association (APBA) and draws international powerboat racing stars.
KICKER Marine Audio is the presenting sponsor for the October 14 Friday Night Pit Party Meet & Greet from 4-8 pm at the Nautical Beachfront Resort. Fans get to mingle with the drivers and crews in the cold pit area to learn more about the racers and their equipment. Great music will be broadcast through the KICKER Marine Audio system while fans enjoy a vintage boat display, food, beverages and vendors. This special event is free and open to the public.
The Classic Outboard Championships have become a Lake Havasu tradition, drawing competitors from every corner of the globe for high stakes cash and prizes. Racing action begins on Saturday October 15 with testing and qualifying races in all three divisions, followed by the Championship Grand Finale on Sunday, October 16. The races start at 11 AM MST and will live stream on the F1 Powerboat Championship Facebook and YouTube channels. Race headquarters at the Nautical Beachfront Resort, 1000 McCulloch Boulevard N, overlooking Thompson Bay offers FREE front and center racecourse viewing on the beach front. The exclusive Mercury Racing Rooster Tail VIP Experience on the resort’s lakeside terrace offers another exclusive tier of fan excitement.
KICKER Marine Audio will also co-sponsor the Formula 1 Race Ride Experience, an opportunity for select, lucky fans who enter the Facebook or Instagram contest to get the thrill of riding in a specially built 2-seat Formula 1 boat that is used as the series pace boat for the races. The company is also a sponsor of the Kids on the Colorado River Program – Racing Edition Educational Pod that will take place at Thunderbolt Middle School on Monday, October 17, before the Championship awards dinner.
KICKER Marine Audio, and its local dealers (Wired 4 Sound and Ron’s In Your Ear Audio), and vendors have long been active in Lake Havasu through the performance boating Annual Desert Storm Poker Run and rally. The Classic Outboard Championships event, promoted by the Formula 1 Powerboat Championship Series, gives KICKER Marine Audio and music fans the opportunity to mix high-octane sound with high-speed racing action.
Dan Murphy of MurfCo. Inc. KICKER Marine Audio’s long-time Manufacturers Rep Group that coordinates distributor and dealer representation in the southwest region, is teaming up with Lake Havasu’s custom installers Wired 4 Sound and Elite Audio’s Jeff Cuvelier at the event. Murphy and partner Frank Zepeda’s “Boom Toon,” a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge complete with a slide and party poles, will be at the docks. The Boom Toon will join Jeff’s Rinker Flotilla Deckboat, both featuring top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio speakers, subwoofers, amps and more, emphasizing the company’s tagline, “Livin’ Loud!“ Murphy will be joined at the booth by Liam Carney and Lorin Morrell and available for questions. MurfCo and local dealers have long-time KICKER audio affiliations including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who was a pioneer in the 12-Volt, mobile audio world.
“KICKER Marine Audio enjoys bringing our high-performance sound to those who love high-performance boating,” said Jeremy Bale, KICKER brand manager. “Many racers, their fans and powerboaters already know KICKER from its decades as a mobile audio leader and probably use our components in their tow vehicles, ATVs and motorcycles. We have long-time dealers, distributors and installers in the Lake Havasu area so the races are a great opportunity for us to see old friends and make new ones.”
All KICKER Marine Audio’s can enclosures are tough, UV-treated and come in black and white to complement a boat’s color scheme, complete with LED lights and accessories. Horn-Loaded Tower Systems, speakers, subwoofers, amps and media centers are only part of the line, so when you are ready to “KICK” up your sound system, rely on KICKER Marine Audio to deliver the finest quality acoustics and marine-grade components. www.kicker.com/marine-audio.
For Additional Information on the Lake Havasu Classic Outboard Championships visit www.f1powerboatchampionship.com or the f1powerboat championship Facebook page. Online VIP Tickets, RV Spots – seeboldsports.com/shop
PHOENIX, AZ (10.10.22) – The very successful 2022 R&D Distributing ‘Rock The House’ 6-City tour wrapped in Phoenix on Thursday October 6th. Throughout the day dealers from across Arizona and adjoining states spent time in the showroom and warehouse to check out and take advantage of the great deals, meet with factory staff members and enjoy food off the grill.
Garrett Cobbs, Outside Sales in Arizona and Utah offered “There were over 80 dealers at the event during the day. Most took advantage of the super specials offered for the day. Head unit specials were very hot and items for Jeeps grabbed attention. During the day it was super to see all networking and enjoying burgers and brats from the grill. I think Brian Sandberg mentioned grilling 125 burgers and 130 brats during the day.”
Mizarko Mobile Outfitters picked up some great ATG items and more.
Vendor representatives on site included SiriusXM, VOXX, DEI, Escort, Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood, Metra, DB Drive, ATG, AAMP, Dual and Jensen.
Nina Contreras, SiriusXM, related “Dealer attendance was strong. R&D offered raffle tickets for each $100. of a dealers order and we offered a SiriusXM neon sign as a raffle prize. I snapped an image in the showroom of the Slangin’ Sound group that was at the event with their SiriusXM neon sign after their raffle ticket was drawn.”
The Slangin’ Sound crew in the R&D showroom with the SiriusXM neon sign they won in the raffle. Nina Contreras, SiriusXM, snapped the image.
Jeremy Foss holds the winning ticket for a Jensen CAR710 raffle prize in the R&D showroom.
Jeremy Foss, Western Divisional Sales Manager Dual/Jensen, stated “It was a very successful turnout with many dealers coming by all the booths for demos and product presentations. R&D saw huge sales from the aggressive promotions through the day. We participated in the raffle drawing and presented a Jensen CAR710 to the lucky raffle winner.
R&D’s Al Congdon relayed “The Phoenix stop of the ‘Rock the House’ tour was terrific and ranked near the top. The was solid vendor support and turnout. Brian Sandberg did a great job at the grill and traffic was strong all day as dealers were shopping for deals.”
The Stereo City pickup in loaded to the max with deals for the short 21 mile trip back to Mesa, AZ.
“Everyone at R&D was so excited that our ‘Rock The House’ events were back and running after the two year COVID hiatus. The staffs were ready at each location, reps attended and the deals as always were unbeatable for our dealers. The R&D events in 2022 were as always a must attend for any dealer to learn, get great deals or just to stop by and visit the staffs and facilities” Congdon concluded.
The R&D ‘Rock The House’ 2022 Tour dates were Kansas City/Lenexa May 4th, Salt Lake City May 10th, Denver May 12th, Grand Rapids May 17th, Detroit May 19th and Arizona October 6th.
SHREVEPORT LA (10.08.22) WTF…Win This Friday. D’Sanz Tint N Zound won the USA Spec Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 199 on Friday morning, October 7th.
The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 4.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 199th time on Friday morning October 7th. The Wheel landed on the USA Spec space and the D’Sanz Tint N Zound slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out to D’Sanz Tint N Zound in Escondido CA and gave them the news that a USA Spec prize will be headed their way. Mari Lu D’Sanz was very happy to hear the news.
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, AIS, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, JBL, RDV Automotive, Kenwood, JVC, USASpec and Nakamichi. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.
Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK, Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME, Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA, Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting Newington CT, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN and Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH……Congratulations to all.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, October 14th.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.07.22) – The 2022 SEMA Show will include a brand-new feature—the eBay Motors Experience, where attendees will be able to experience the industry’s products live, in action. Located in more than 100,000-sq.-ft. of space in front of the Las Vegas Convention Center, eBay Motors Experience will anchor the outdoor area and welcome Showgoers with dynamic, experiential activities as soon as they arrive onsite.
The eBay Motors Experience will consist of multiple activities taking place simultaneously. Showgoers will be able to witness extreme performance at the Hoonigan Burnyard, take part in immersive ride-alongs, and get up-close to some of the industry’s most coveted vehicle builds.
The new eBay Motors Experience feature at the 2022 SEMA Show will anchor the outdoor area of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
“The eBay Motors Experience will be the center of the action at this year’s Show,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “It will be set up so that attendees are able to engage with the vehicles and the products in a way that they’ve never been able to do before. Showgoers are going to feel the impact of the feature immediately when they arrive at the Show.”
The eBay Motors Experience is open to all credentialed SEMA Showgoers during the event, Tuesday-Friday, Nov. 1-4.
To learn more about the 2022 SEMA Show or to register for the event, visit semashow.com or download the official SEMA Show mobile app.
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