Industry

Alpine Now Shipping the OPTIM8 Automatic Sound Tuning Processor

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

AUBURN HILLS, MI (06.13.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. is now shipping the Alpine OPTIM8-Channel Hi-Res Sound Processor and Amplifier with Automatic Sound Tuning.

The Alpine OPTIM8 offers a suite of features, including a built-in 8-channel amplifier that is able to power a full sound system and flexible inputs that can be used with a factory radio or an aftermarket radio. However, the star feature of the product is the automatic sound-tuning controls that can tune a sound system in less than five minutes.

Using a PC App or IOS App for the iPhone (available on the iPhone 10 or newer), the Alpine OPTIM8 App guides users through a series of quick and simple movements of an external tuning microphone (sold separately) or the built-in iPhone microphone to take measurements of their sound system.

This is made possible by using Acoustic Power Volume Density (APVD), an auto-EQ technology that takes a three-dimensional image of the audio signal within the vehicle’s cabin, accounting for any anomalies or acoustic challenges like a center console or steering wheel, and intelligently flattens the vehicle’s audio curve to create a base for tuning. The user is then able to tune the sound system to their listening preference by choosing a target curve that is applied to the system in real-time.

The Alpine Optim8 PXE-C80-88 is available now for $799.95 and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on www.alpine-usa.com for details.

New SiriusXM Integrated Satellite Radio Solutions for 2023 Audi Models

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

VAIS Technology has released new satellite radio integrated solutions specifically designed for 2023 AUDI models. This solution allows owners of these 2023 models to add SiriusXM® satellite radio to their existing factory stereo, without compromising functionality.

“Since 2003, VAIS Technology have been developing satellite radio adapters for vehicles that aren’t equipped from the factory with SiriusXM® tuners,” Dennis Hopper, Vice President of Sales, says. “While satellite radio is more popular than ever, many new OEM vehicles still don’t come equipped from the factory with satellite tuners. Our company develops simple, easy to install integrated solutions that add satellite radio, but preserve factory functions.”

The new 2023 integration kits provide coverage for AUDI A3, A4, A5, A6, Q3 and Q5 model numbers (GSR-UV01), GM (GSR-AU01) vehicles. This adapter connects directly to the original factory radio and allows the vehicle owner to listen to satellite radio through the existing factory system. The VAIS integrated solution also allows for full control of satellite radio functions – changing stations, setting presets, steering wheel functions, etc.

To learn more about the new, GSR-UV01 and AU01, from VAIS Technology, visit vaistech.com

It’s Summertime… Let’s Get ‘Jammin’ N June’ to Drive In-Store Sales

Posted on by in Industry.

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.12.23) – ‘Jammin’ N June’… It’s Summertime and time for 12volt dealers to ‘Crank It Up’ and drive sales! It’s Summertime and time for consumers to get Jammin’ N June with great gear for their rides. Hi-Tech in-dash media, powerful amps and speakers that rock plus much more will get their rides Jammin’ N June. Importantly that can also drive sales.

More and more sales of 12volt products are taking place on line. Consumers who make those purchases are by-passing traditional brick and mortar stores. Online sales have been on a steady rise for a number of years. 12volt retailers must become more proactive utilizing social media to grow their social media followers and connect with those followers. Participating at off-site events can also drive sales. How about showcasing a demo vehicle outside the store with LED lighting? Sitting behind the counter waiting for customers to walk in the door is not working.

Team Nutz connecting with Jeepers and enthusiasm at the Bantam Jeep Festival in Butler PA June 9th and 10th.

The custom Jammin’ N June graphic below can get the ball rolling. There is No Charge. In today’s marketplace proactive 12volt retailers are utilizing social media to connect with followers and consumers. 12volt retailers can post this FREE graphic on their Instagram and Facebook accounts. The graphic is square for the Instagram and Facebook templates… Simply screenshot and size the graphic!!! In the comments area dealers can highlight their brands and exciting activities… Special offers too!

Real Audio in Erie PA features eye-catching lighting on their new building. Spotlighting popular vehicles with LED lighting after dark drives consumer awareness.

The 12volt Central staff has also reached out to distributors, their on the road staff members and manufacturer representatives to actively work to help 12volt retailers increase their social media presence. That could definitely be a win/win for all.

Jammin’ N June. Those words, and that message, can grab the attention of followers and consumers to create in-store traffic for 12volt retailers. It’s imperative 12volt retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in their showrooms. An impressive demonstration in a retailer’s showroom can also bring a smile to a customer’s face and drive sales.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The new 12voltSTP Tool makes that easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image to 318-469-2526. PRESTO. Your store’s positive activities could be in the news.

As an industry ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On.’ Let’s get Jammin’ N June!

Much more to come from the 12volt Central Studios.

Learn How to (Accurately!) Assess ADAS Technology Performance, June 14

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.12.23) – Virtually every new OEM vehicle features advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as a standard today, and automakers utilize different types of tests to develop and validate their respective systems. Knowing how these vehicles are evaluated can help automotive professionals plan their new-product development processes and better understand the vehicle’s performance.

During the webinar “Testing of ADAS Technologies” on Wednesday, June 14, at 1:00 p.m. PDT, SEMA members will learn about the types of tests performed and how data is recorded, in a very controlled manner, to assess the performance of ADAS systems accurately.

Taylor Manahan, director of advanced mobility at Transportation Research Center, will share the types of sensors being used for these technologies, as well as the facilities, equipment and methods utilized for testing these technologies. Attendees will also gain an understanding of how track testing is conducted.

Register for the webinar presented by the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) here.

MTX Audio Appoints MSS Marketing as Representative in MN, ND, and SD

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

THIEF RIVER FALLS, MN (06.09.23) – MTX Audio announces the appointment of MSS Marketing, its representative for Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Kasey Johnson is in Minnesota and will represent MTX Mobile Audio. We are excited to have Kasey join our growing team of professionals; he shares our fundamental passion for audio as are focused on the success of our dealers, which is critical in our dealer-direct distribution model. With his extensive knowledge and experience in the industry, we’re certain to see a positive impact in this territory right away.

MSS Marketing was founded in 2018 to provide professional representation and market share within the 12-Volt Industry. Kasey Johnson, Mid-State Territory Manager has been in the sales and installation arena for over 25 years. He enjoys camping and golfing when he isn’t working on vehicles.
Please contact Kasey Johnson if your company is in Minnesota, North Dakota or South Dakota and interested in becoming an MTX Audio Dealer.

Email: k.johnson@m-state.com
Phone: 218-684-4457

Visit mtx.com for more.

Heise LED Ships Expandable Wheel Rings with Patent-Pending Design

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

HOLLY HILL, FL (06.09.23) – Heise LED Lighting Systems by Metra Electronics is now shipping expandable wheel rings that debuted at the SEMA show in November. They are available in RGB, RGBW, and Chasing options and feature a revolutionary patent-pending design that makes it easy to add brilliant LED lighting to the wheels of any vehicle. These wheel rings are a game-changer for automotive lighting installers because they offer the ability to increase or decrease the diameter of the rings, making it easier to cater to more customers while keeping less inventory in stock. There are two kits available for each LED lighting option with wheel rings that expand from either 11″ to 14″ or 15″ to 18″ in size. The kits include:

  • Four aluminum expandable wheel rings
  • Cuttable LED strips
  • Mounting brackets and hardware
  • Two backbone harnesses for the left and right sides of the vehicle
  • Heise Connect controller
  • RF remote
  • Thread lock for worry-free installation

Each aluminum wheel ring features a split ring design that makes them easy to assemble and adjust to fit the diameter of the wheel. Installers choose how far to expand the ring diameter by aligning the pre-drilled holes, each of which increases the diameter by .25″. An “L” channel aligning track helps guide the two ring pieces together while adding strength and preventing the ring from bowing. Holes drilled on the outer “L” track are non-threaded, while the holes on the inner “L” track are threaded for M3 screws, eliminating the need for bulky nuts.

RGB, RGBW, or chasing LED lighting strips are included for the inside and outside of each ring with 3M double-sided backing. They are IP68 rated to be water-resistant and ensure that they will withstand the elements. The LEDs are controlled via the Heise Connect mobile smartphone app when paired with the included Heise Connect controller.

These products are in stock and shipping now. Visit HeiseLED.com for more details.

Race Sport Lighting Released RSUKIT-C RGB Multi-Color Chasing Aluminum Channel Underbody Kit

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

RINGWOOD, IL (06.08.23) – Race Sport Lighting released their new RSUKIT-C (P/N# 1007686) RGB multicolor chasing style underbody kit in Q1 and are now in full non-stop production in Q2. This unique and niche new exterior underglow product is the perfect solution for a full lighting show underneath the frame of any vehicle. The RSUKIT-C kit comes with RF remote control and Bluetooth app control functions for the user to select the colors and patterns they want to display. Users can do virtually hundreds of distinct colors and patterns all around the exterior of the vehicle. The lighting is recessed into their notorious aluminum channel design, which are the exact same durable channels used on their nationwide top selling RSUKIT, which ash been the top-rated underbody kit on the marketplace for several years.

The kit has already been shipped out to hundreds of dealers recently and is in stock in dozens upon dozens of distributors around the country. The product is attractively retail packaged and tells the story to the consumer for an easy retail sale. Dealers can make great money off not only the sale of the product, but the labor is great profit too! Professional installation is recommended for this product and allow dealers to bill out approximately half a day of labor to be estimated. Another fun fact is that you can mate this exterior product with their new AKIT18 ambient interior kit and control the inside and outside of the vehicle for a complete light show with one smart phone app.

“Dealers that have been huge supporters of our RSUKIT drove this new product by simply asking for a chasing pattern light kit that is made on the same durable platform as our top selling aluminum channel underbody kit. We stepped up the request even one further and made this product both remote controlled and Bluetooth app controlled. The RSUKIT-C, to no surprise, has risen to the top of our nationwide seller ranking charts. It is an amazing chasing pattern underbody light kit that has been a high request item from our dealer network for the last 1-2 years” says Steven Jergensen, President of Race Sport Lighting.

The Race Sport Lighting RSUKIT-C (P/N# 1007686) chasing underbody light kit is currently in stock and shipping from a distributor near you, or directly from the B2B Dealer Portal at https://www.racesportinc.com/customer/account/login/

SEMA and EcoLogic Partners Lawsuit Seeks to Protect Motorized Recreational Access at Oceano Dunes SVRA

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

WASHINGTON, DC (06.08.23) – SEMA’s joint lawsuit with EcoLogic Partners—a legal collaboration between the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), American Sand Association, and American Motorcyclist Association District 37—challenges the California Coastal Commission’s plans to prohibit motorized recreational and overnight camping access at Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA). The coalition’s lawsuit is scheduled for a June 15, 2023, hearing in the California Superior Court of San Luis Obispo County.

SEMA and EcoLogic Partners seek recognition from the court that the California Coastal Commission does not have the authority to terminate off-highway vehicle (OHV) use and beach camping at the state-authorized and legislatively sanctioned Oceano Dunes SVRA. The lawsuit is combined with a suit filed by Friends of Oceano Dunes making similar allegations.

SEMA, ORBA, ASA, and AMA are leading advocates for motorized recreational activities, and the upcoming hearing marks a crucial moment in the ongoing battle to protect motorized recreation access in California and across the United States.

Oceano Dunes SVRA is a premier destination for motorized recreation enthusiasts and tourists alike as the only off-road park in the state offering direct access to the Pacific Ocean. For decades, recreationists and off-roaders have enjoyed riding all types of motorized vehicles, from trucks and SUVs to dune buggies and quads, on the California beach, which is now threatened by the Commission’s March 2021 amendments to Coastal Development Permit 4-82-300 that demanded the California Department of Parks and Recreation phase out off-highway vehicle (OHV) access to Oceano Dunes SVRA by 2024.

“SEMA advocates for land-use policies that provide motorized recreational access to publicly owned lands while providing reasonable safeguards needed to protect natural resources,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “The Coastal Commission’s efforts to stop off-road access at Oceano Dunes are unreasonable and set a dangerous precedent. Oceano Dunes is enjoyed by over two million enthusiasts and tourists each year. SEMA is committed to their rights to responsibly recreate on California’s Coast and public lands throughout the country.”

The Honorable Tana Coates is the presiding judge for the June 15 hearing. The judge is expected to issue a final decision in July or August. Any additional appeals following this ruling could extend the outcome of this litigation for an additional 10-13 months.

The trial court’s decision is critically important to SEMA and EcoLogic Partners’ efforts to protect motorized recreational access at Oceano Dunes.

Visit sema.org for more.

MTX Audio Appoints CE Global Pro in the PNW

Posted on by in Industry and tagged , .

BEND, OR (06.07.23) – MTX Audio announces the appointment of CE Global Pro as the company’s Manufacturer Representative for the Pacific Northwest… Oregon and Washington.

Glenn McCarthy and team, located in Bend OR, will represent both MTX Mobile Audio and MTX Powersports Audio products. “We are thrilled to find a person with the excitement and experience of Glenn and feel confident he and his team will increase sales in the NW tip of the country” stated Ceasar Olaes, MTX 12 Volt Sales Manager.

Glenn McCarthy in the CE Global Pro office with MTX Audio web pages on the monitors.

“Pretty cool to have the prominence of MTX and the lineup of products to attack the ‘outdoor’ vehicle audio world. I’ve always appreciated the company’s staying power in the industry” commented McCarthy.

Look for more happenings in the PNW as Glenn & team hit the road…

Please contact Glenn McCarthy if your company is in the PNW and interested in becoming a MTX Audio Dealer. Email: ceglobalprorep@gmail.com Phone: 360-949-2125.

SEMA Market Report Webinar Helps Members Discover Untapped Business Opportunities

Posted on by in Industry and tagged .

DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.07.23) – SEMA members are invited to a live webinar on Wednesday, June 21, at 11:00 a.m. PDT to connect with the SEMA Market Research team and discuss the “2023 SEMA Market Report.” The latest annual study, available for download Thursday, June 15, will give members an in-depth look at market changes from the past year and help them identify the greatest business opportunities in various aftermarket segments.

During the webinar, attendees will be able to ask questions as they learn about the report’s critical findings, like how much consumers spent on parts in 2022, how they used the vehicles they modified, how economic and industry factors are affecting the market, new data on market sizing, changes in the vehicle population and relevant trends.

Register for the webinar here and download the report when it becomes available Thursday, June 15, at sema.org/research.