Industry

Intellitronix Introduces Aurora Color Changeable Universal Analog Panel

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EASTLAKE, OH (08.08.23) – Experience the fusion of aesthetics and functionality with the AURORA – a color changeable universal analog panel. This is not just a dashboard; it’s a statement that speaks volumes about your love of your vehicle.

An incredible touch for any fab/resto mod project and direct fit replacement for the Chevy II Nova. The Aurora has a white polycarbonate sub surface overlay with brush stroke finish with your choice of chrome or black chrome bezel.

Visit intellitronix.com/aurora for more.

Audio Xperts Vacaville at the Tesla Takeover 2023

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SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA (08.07.23) – The Audio Xperts AX Tesla was onsite at the Tesla Takeover the weekend on July 29th and 30th.

Vince Miranda related “We decided to make it a special weekend for my bride’s birthday and take the trip down to the Tesla Takeover 2023 in San Luis Obispo which is about a 4 hour drive from the shop in Vacaville…and it was certainly a very exciting weekend.”

The Madonna Inn grounds were packed with Teslas for the 2023 Takeover.
Vince Miranda showed the Michelin Man the AX Tesla.

The fields at Madonna Inn were filled with all things Tesla as Tesla owners connected with fellow owners, checked out amazing displays and learned about the latest advancements in EV technology. There were several hundred Teslas on site with some featuring aftermarket upgrades plus vehicle graphics and wraps.

In April of this year there was an Alpine F#1 Status Premiere event at the Audio Xperts’ location in Vacaville.

The AX Tesla Alpine F#1 Status controls in the console.
One of the many customized Teslas at the Tesla Takeover.

Miranda continued “After exeriencing the Alpine F#1 Status system in that Tesla I made the decision to purchase a Tesla for the shop, do a custom installation of a F#1 Status system and utilize the vehicle as a feature for store promos. It took a few months to make all that happen but by mid-July the project was completed. At that point the next stop was the Telsa Takeover 2023.”

At the Tesla Takeover the AX Telsa was far and away the best sounding Tesla onsite. Miranda welcomed fellow owners to take a seat for demos and many took a seat. Everyone who took a seat related it was by far the best sounding system they had ever heard in a car….it was also better than any in-concert experience. Miranda captured video clips of people after demos to utilize in social media posts.

The Alpine F#1 Status Premier event at Audio Experts in April with Vince Miranda on the left.

“Using the AX Telsa for demos at the store was part of the overall plan. Connecting with the Tesla community at events like the Takeover was another part of the plan. Based of input from the Tesla Takeover we see many positive opportunities. Tesla is by far the leader in the EV category. But owners of other EV brands will see their EV vehicle can also have a concert hall sound” Miranda concluded.

Visit facebook.com/AudioXperts for more.

TORA Feature Vehicle Program to Provide Unparalleled Exposure at SEMA Show

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.07.23) – The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is accepting applications for its 2023 SEMA Show Feature Vehicle Program and is looking for up to 10 unique builds to display in its TORA Feature Vehicle Trail display at the SEMA Show.

Available to TORA members as a membership benefit, the program enables manufacturers and builders to showcase their talents and expand their footprint beyond their SEMA Show booth. The TORA Trail is located outside of the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, where thousands of industry buyers pass by daily.

Submissions are being accepted in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road and CUV crossover. All selected participants will have their build voted on by Showgoers for the chance to win the TORA Best in Show award, which will be announced during the TORA Reception at the SEMA Show on Wednesday, November 1.

Applications are due August 23. The cost to participate is $1,500, with $500 of that donated to SEMA Cares, the fundraising arm of the association that supports a variety of children’s charities. Get your name out there as a builder; submit your application today. Not a TORA member? Apply here.

August 15 Deadline for a Chance to Win a Young Guns Golden Ticket for the 2023 Battle of Builders

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.04.23) – Registration for the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders the aftermarket industry’s ultimate vehicle competition, is now open at semabotb.com. Participants interested in the Young Guns category, for builders 29 years and younger, should be aware of an upcoming deadline for a special prize package (more details, below).

The Battle of the Builders has catapulted SEMA Show builders to fame through exposure in SEMA’s communication and social channels and inclusion in a one-hour television special. The competition recognizes one winner in four unique categories–Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and Young Guns–before crowning and overall Battle of the Builders Champion.

Young Guns’ Virtual Golden Ticket Competition Deadline Is August 15

The Young Guns category (for builders 29 years and younger) is part of SEMA’s initiative to support and encourage the next generation of builders in the industry.

“Participating in last year’s Battle of the Builders Young Guns program opened doors I didn’t even know existed. The second I arrived at the SEMA Show, I started connecting with all the other Young Guns competitors, whom I still stay in contact with today. It’s hard meeting people my age that share the same passion for hot-rod building as I do, and the SEMA Show is a great place to connect with them,” said the 2022 SEMA Battle of the Builders Young Guns class champion Josh Michaels. “Winning the Young Guns category also validated my work as a hot-rod builder and got my name on a lot of people’s radars. It’s given me numerous connections and sponsorships, which have been crucial to how much I’ve grown my business this past year.”

All Young Guns entries submitted before Tuesday, August 15, will also have the opportunity to compete in up to three virtual Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a prize package that includes:

  • Round-trip economy airfare for two to Las Vegas for the SEMA Show (or fuel expenses if driving to Las Vegas; the amount awarded will be based on the lesser of two options: the price of the airline tickets if SEMA booked the flight or the cost of mileage reimbursement from the winner’s home to Las Vegas based on $.655 per mile (IRS mileage rate for 2023). The approximate retail value depends upon location and market fluctuations.
  • One hotel room, double occupancy, for seven (7) nights in Las Vegas during The SEMA Show (check-in Saturday, October 28 and check-out Saturday, November 4). The approximate retail value depends on market fluctuations.
  • Vehicle shipping to and from the SEMA Show for one (1) competition vehicle (via CONUS). The approximate retail value depends upon location and market fluctuations.
  • Five hundred dollars ($500) cash to use for meals and incidental expenses while at the SEMA Show. Approximate retail value: $500
  • All prizes are subject to change at any time at the sole discretion of SEMA.

The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place October 31-November 3, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

For more information on the SEMA Battle of the Builders or to register, visit semabotb.com.

Mike Bujold Joins Eleven Engineering R&D Design Team

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EDMONTON, CANADA (08.04.23) – Eleven Engineering, Inc. is proud to announce that Mike Bujold has joined the company’s growing Research & Development Design Team.

“The past year has seen unrivaled growth for Eleven Engineering, and so we are seeing a continuing need for top level additions to our R&D department,” said Rex Whitehead, Eleven Engineering executive vice president, sales & marketing. “Mike’s education and experience make him a perfect fit for our team.”

Bujold graduated the University of Alberta (BSc in Computing Science) and brings his prior experience as a hardware developer for a VSAT communications company to Eleven Engineering.

“What drew me to Eleven is the forward-thinking mindset and adaptability of the company and the people that work here,” said Bujold, who will work out of the company’s headquarters in Edmonton, AB. “I am fortunate to be part of a team of like-minded people that are committed to building quality products. I can see the potential SKAA has to become a true wireless audio standard and I am excited to be a part of it.”

SKAA wireless lets the integrator easily create a dedicated multi-room home audio superhighway with a long range up to 150 feet with a robust, interference-free low-latency signal eliminating lip-sync issues with TV and gaming. SKAA-enabled products can stream music between them, up to four sets simultaneously – one transmitter to four devices. In environments laden with heavy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth traffic, SKAA navigates through these hostile environments with best-in-class reliability. SKAA also allows for uninterrupted audio signals that are delivered with the highest sound quality to all speakers without the latency that is inherent in other wireless solutions.

SKAA is available as a built-in technology not requiring an external transmitter in purpose-designed partner products. SKAA transmitters work with iOS & Android mobile devices, Mac & Windows computers, televisions, and just about any product with a line output or a headphone jack.

Eleven Engineering breaks down the Seven Deadly Sins of WiFi Audio on its YouTube channel:

For more on SKAA and the Seven Deadly Sins of WiFi Audio, please subscribe to youtube.com/user/SKAAwireless and visit SKAA.com.

For additional information, contact Rex Whitehead at 480-650-3979 or email whitehead@eleveneng.com. For more information on Eleven Engineering, visit www.elevenengineering.com, SKAA wireless YouTube channel, and Facebook/.

KICKER Creates High-Output, Audio-Zone Controller for Boats and RVs

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STILLWATER, OK (08.03.23) – KICKER is now shipping an audio processor that controls the volume in up to four different zones. The KICKER KXMARLC Zone Volume Controller, created for marine use but with all-weather features for any outdoor setting, distributes a stereo RCA signal from vehicle’s source unit to as many as four independent stereo RCA outputs for very clean, very clear sound. Compatible with most any amplifier, the KXMARLC will be available for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online. Soon to be introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live streamed show, KXMARLC Zone Controllers will retail for $299.99 each and will also be available for purchase online at www.kicker.com.

Perfect for boat and RV applications, the half-DIN controller unit measures under two inches high and nine inches wide, making it easy to mount in a variety of locations. It utilizes large, user-friendly knobs for adjusting individual zone volumes. Custom zone adhesive labels are included for easily personalizing the controller unit and overall sound system. 

Also included is the hide-away processor unit that features a remote turn-on lead for activating all amplifiers within the system. The processor houses the preamp section that delivers up to eight volts to each channel, so every amplifier is getting the cleanest signal possible. This allows for lower gain settings, increased noise rejection and overall better sound. All installation and mounting hardware for surface or flush mounting of both units is included.

For more information, consumers can log onto kicker.com/KXMARLC on the kicker.com website.

Strong Attendee Support ‘Reminiscent of Highest Records’ Expected for SEMA 2023

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.03.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, is gearing up to have

incredible industry support from several different industry segments from across the world. Beyond the enormous buying power set for the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show also delivers scores of qualified trade, mainstream and new media members alongside established and emerging influencers. These unique attendees help exhibitors expand their branding and product lineups well beyond their booths, making the SEMA Show a sound investment for the year to come.

“This year’s SEMA Show is shaping up to be one of the best events to date. The industry support is reminiscent of our highest attendance records, and participation is trending above pre-pandemic levels,” said SEMA Show Director Andy Tompkins. “From key buyers, top media members and qualified industry influencers, the professionals you need to help grow your business will be in Las Vegas, October 31-November 3. We’re ready for this industry homecoming!”

Be Part of the SEMA Show Global Business Ecosystem
A company’s credibility improves when news outlets publish stories about their offerings and services, one of the best endorsements a brand can receive. With more than 3,000 media members registered each year, the SEMA Show is the single-largest gathering of automotive media professionals in one location.

In addition, the Show is attended by influencers of all types, including those working for exhibiting members, marketers, suppliers, athletes, celebrities and more. Social-media influencers can help your brand establish social proof and build awareness. An influencer snapping a photo of your booth can drive purchase decisions and increase sales–at no cost to your business.

Everyone walking around the SEMA Show is part of the global automotive business ecosystem, offering the opportunity for participating companies to create brand evangelists from every sector in the marketplace.

It’s never too early to get started on your SEMA Show exhibit plan. In fact, records indicate that a majority of attendees decide to attend the SEMA Show six months in advance, providing ample opportunities for pre-event connections that maximize your time on-site.

There is still time to secure booth space for the 2023 SEMA Show. Visit SEMAShow.com to start creating your Show plan today! Exhibitor, attendee, media and students/educator registration is available at SEMAShow.com/register for just $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

Aspen Sound Wins First Ever Crossover Points Drawing

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BATTLE GROUND, WA (08.02.23) – The Crossover Marketing Group presented Aspen
Sound with the first ever Crossover Points prize at a recent Hertz Audison factory training with Ken
Ward.

Crossover held a drawing last month to pick the winner for this new incentive program, which is
designed to reward dealer orders and incentivize upside activity at the end of the month.

“Dealers are building up their ‘Crossover Points’ by writing orders across all of our great brands like
Hertz Audison, Boss Audio, VOXX/DEI, and Linkswell. For every $2,500 they spend, they earn a
point, which gives them a shot at winning an awesome prize. The next drawing will be for $500 in
Costco Gift Cards plus we have some great stuff lined up for the fall…It’s truly a win-win for everyone
involved!” said Rob Sutton of Crossover Marketing.

The program is set to grow even more as additional vendor support kicks in to allow bigger and bigger
prizes. Please visit the following link for an informative video: https://tinyurl.com/xover-points

Visit www.crossovermktg.com for more.

Wireless Carplay & Android Auto Fully Integrated with the Factory Touchscreen for Select Toyota Vehicles

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POMPANO BEACH, FL (08.02.23) – The ITZ-TOY is a easy plug-and-play solution compatible with most Toyota vehicles from 2014 and newer. This solution integrates with the factory touchscreen and provides both wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. It also includes front and rear camera inputs, allowing you to connect cameras for enhanced visibility while driving. Additionally, the ITZ-TOY supports smartphone mirroring.

The ITZ-TOY kit retains the factory microphone and allows you to use the factory Bluetooth, maintaining the original audio quality during phone calls, which is a significant advantage.

For detailed information about the ITZ-TOY and its compatibility with specific Toyota models, you can visit our website (www.zz-2.com) and check out all the product details.

To get to know more about our solutions or purchase the ITZ-TOY, you can contact ZZ2’s sales team at 929-220-1212 (extension 1) or reach out via email at sales@zz-2.com. We will be happy to provide you with further details about the product, pricing, and installation process.

The ITZ-TOY is now available. CLICK HERE to see all the details about it.

Training at the myFirstech Academy Prepares Attendees for the Upcoming Remote Start Season

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SEATTLE, WA (08.01.23) – The recent training sessions at the Seattle myFirstech Academy consisted of 3 sessions, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, July 24th-26th. Josh Woodie and Doug Reed conducted the sessions. Each session had at least 20 in the people in the training and they came from all parts of the country.

Attendees from one of the 3 sessions gather for a group photo. Firstech’s Josh Woodie is bottom right in the red shirt and Doug Rerd is center in the black shirt.
The myFirstech Academy in Seattle includes a large area for training sessions and hands-on vehicle installation.

“The myFirstech Academy trainings provide practical training that pertains to everyday, real world installations. Installers of all levels are invited to Firstech’s Dallas or Seattle offices to receive direct training from our company’s award winning technical support team. Firstech offers a Level 1 course for new installers and a Level 2 version for experienced installers with at least 2 years of experience” Justin Lee, Firstech Marketing Director related.

Josh Woodie paused during an in-session break.
Attendees gathered around as Doug Reed conducted an in-vehicle training opportunity.

The next two training events are in Dallas TX. The first for KnowledgeFest in August and another free training at the Firstech facility in Dallas suburb of Flower Mound in September.

For upcoming events, dealers and installers can visit https://www.firstechllc.com/calendar for dates and locations. Are next two events are in Dallas, TX for KnowledgeFest (August) and another week of FREE training sessions in September.