DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.19.23) – In partnership with Ford Motor Company, the SEMA Garage Detroit is excited to announce a Measuring Session for the newly designed ’23 Ford SuperDuty.
SEMA members will be allowed to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan and measure, and have a close-up experience with their builds.
This event will feature two ’23 Ford SuperDuty Truck platforms:
6.7L Hi Output Diesel Power Stroke Tremor Off Road and Lariat Ultimate Package Pro Power Onboard-2Kw Roof clearance lights Leather seats 12-in. productivity screen 6-ft. pickup box In addition, SEMA has also recently added new, highly anticipated OEM CAD data into the Tech Transfer program. More details can be found at semagarage/techtransfter.
Event Dates: June 27–29, 2023
This will be an in-person event at the SEMA Garage Detroit in Plymouth, Michigan. The event will require scheduled appointments.
Due to high demand, all appointments will be time limited. Please only register two attendees per member company. A follow-up email will be sent to confirm additional attendees.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.16.23) – The specialty-equipment market showed positive results in 2022 with an overall market growth of 2% and reaching $51.8 billion in sales, according to the new “2023 SEMA Market Report.” This continues a decade of growth for the industry, even among recent economic turmoil created by the pandemic.
While the growth percentage was slightly down from the industry’s typical annual rate of 4% to 5%, the slowing was expected given current economic challenges. SEMA estimates that sales growth will remain fairly flat in 2023, before ramping back up towards the industry’s historical growth trend in 2024.
“Even as economic uncertainty looms, particularly around inflation, consumers are passionate about customizing and continue to buy from our industry,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “This report provides new and relevant findings that businesses can use to better connect with their customers, find areas of opportunity and drive their business.”
Available for download at sema.org/research, the “2023 SEMA Market Report” provides a comprehensive review of the automotive specialty-equipment market in 2022 and includes new data on the U.S. market size, consumer profiling and industry trends that can help companies make more informed business decisions.
Key findings from the report include:
Pickup accessorization remains the biggest segment for the industry, topping $15 billion in sales.
The CUV accessory market continues to grow, reaching 14% of specialty-equipment sales in 2022.
Younger people continue to be the most likely to accessorize and perform more upgrades; 50% of those modifying their vehicles are under the age of 40.
50% of accessorizers own a powersports or recreational vehicle, opening up cross-selling opportunities.
More than 80% of companies expect their sales to stay the same or grow in 2023.
SEMA members can download the report for free at sema.org/research. Discover key findings in the report during the upcoming “SEMA Market Update” webinar on Wednesday, June 21. Register for the webinar here.
EDMONTON, ALBERTA (06.16.23) – Eleven Engineering, Inc. (elevenengineering.com), a market leader in semiconductor products for wireless audio for professional, home theater, multi-room, portable, 12 Volt (car, truck, motorcycle, power sports, marine) and gaming applications, has announced the two Ukrainian refugee families that will receive the company’s May 2023 profits from its SKAAstore.com. For the second year in a row, the company is helping support Ukrainian families in dire need of assistance during the continued crisis with Russia who are actively working to protect their country.
“As this unnecessary war drags on, the team at SKAA made a commitment to once again support more families that have been affected by Putin’s war in Ukraine in 2023,” said John Sobota, Eleven Engineering CEO. “May 2023 was a record sales month for SKAAstore.com, which means we will provide even greater benefits where it is needed the most. From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank our customers for stepping up and helping Eleven Engineering donate this much needed monetary aid, which is the equivalent of the costs for a year’s rent and other family necessities in hopes that the money helps ease any financial burdens on them while they endure and fight for their country’s freedom and independence.”
This year, Eleven Engineering is donating its May SKAAstore.com profits to the Prykhodko family, which consists of father Ruslan, mother Yuliia, and children Dmytro (16) and Daniil (10). The family was displaced by Russian missile bombardments close to home, and Ruslan lost his income since the war began while Yuliia works remotely as the only source of family income.
Also receiving this year’s monetary aid is the Petrunko family, who received Eleven Engineering’s donations last year, as well. The family of four also has first-hand experience with the horrors that come with war. Relocated a number of times since the war began, their home was damaged by shelling, they were forced to flee their occupied village near Kherson. Their escape was harrowing, but the family remained safe thanks to the heroic actions of the father, Viktor. Meanwhile the mother, Kristina, is a member of the Ukrainian armed forces, working every day to fight back against Putin’s onslaught.
“We salute both the Russian people who believe using their country’s military might to shell the homes of children is diabolical, as well as those who risk their lives to protest and resist Putin inside Russia,” Sobota continued. “We hope that our continued small gestures will help Ukrainian families persist with hope and determination as they continue in their noble causes. Thank you to those who fight the good fight.”
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, home to Eleven Engineering’s headquarters, has the largest Ukrainian population of any Canadian city. “And this fact really hits home for us,” Sobota said. “We still challenge other Canadian-based companies to consider stepping up and helping those in Ukraine and the refugees that have fled in any way that they can,” Sobota concluded. “We all need to help because that’s what Canadians do.”
Eleven Engineering invites everyone to share their first-hand stories of heroes from this conflict on its social media platforms.
SKAA is the new wireless HiFi audio standard developed by Eleven Engineering, Inc. 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. SKAA is also available as a built-in technology not requiring an external transmitter in purpose-designed partner products, which are featured at SKAA.com. 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 which are delivered with the highest sound quality to all speakers without the latency that is inherent in other wireless solutions.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.15.23) – Meet the ALL-NEW MB Quart GMR7V1 7-inch waterproof touchscreen Apple CarPlay source unit! The ALL-NEW flagship leader in MB Quart source units is leading the way with more customizable audio features and enhancements that add depth to every MB Quart listening experience. It’s time to dive deeper into audio playback with the GMR7V1. Get ready to bring out more details of playback and layers of customizable options with the ALL-NEW GMR7V1 waterproof touchscreen Apple CarPlay source unit and also supporting Android devices.
With deeper features like an integrated four-button auxiliary switching system, easy-to-use and simple navigation, and protection against the conditions with it being completely waterproof – the GMR7V1 is the next evolution of source units from MB Quart. Bringing more control and integration with your iPhone or Bluetooth device, the GMR7V1 waterproof CarPlay source unit uses a master knob control button for easy navigation of options and sub-level buttons within a full touchscreen 7-inch display.
Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “The MB Quart GMR7V1 signifies a huge step forward in the landscape of source units with it being completely waterproof and featuring Apple CarPlay while offering more control to dive deeper into audio with dual-zone adjustments. We are extremely excited for everyone to get their hands on one of these and see how it levels up their MB Quart listening experience. I know that I will be having one of these in my audio setup, and I am excited to try all of the new features that are made available.”
ABOUT THE GMR7V1 WATERPROOF TOUCHSCREEN CARPLAY SOURCE UNIT
No matter what the journey ahead brings, whether it’s Marine, UTV, RV, or Mobile applications – the GMR7V1 7-inch waterproof Apple CarPlay source unit is going to make every adventure more enhanced with tons of incredible new features that bring out more from your audio. The GMR7V1 source unit includes a built-in RGB lighting controller that also adds an accent of the desired color to all of the waterproof buttons under the 7-inch touchscreen display and is easily adjusted with a master knob, zone mute buttons, sub-level buttons, and a full touchscreen 7-inch display.
The GMR7V1 features selectable audio sources that include Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, AM/FM, Weather Band, two USB inputs, and aux input. Integrating four built-in auxiliary switches and a full RGB lighting controller that adds color under every button, the GMR7V1 source unit also includes two camera inputs and one video output. Control more of your sound throughout every listening session with dual-zone and full audio adjustments that control the volume in two different areas independently. Fine-tune any genre of audio to your liking with sub-level control and a 10-band equalizer for an enhanced listening experience.
This touchscreen CarPlay and Android-supported source unit is completely waterproof and LIFE SHIELD IPX-Rated has you fully protected against the elements that outdoor adventures may bring. Enjoy fine-tuning that favorite song and diving deeper into your audio playback with a built-in auxiliary switching system and RGB lighting controller while taking on every outdoor condition.
FEATURES INCLUDE: MARINE GRADE PROTECTION / IPX RATING Meets or exceeds the IPX67 requirements for water and dust proofing with LIFE SHIELD
APPLE CONTROL Wired Apple CarPlay included
SOURCE TYPE AM/FM/Weather Band/Bluetooth allows all access to radio stations and content from Bluetooth-enabled devices
CONTROL BUTTONS GMR7V1 features a master knob, mute buttons, sub-level buttons, and a full touchscreen 7-inch display
DUAL AUDIO ZONE CAPABILITY Control volume in two different areas independently such as the passenger area and tower speakers
MEDIA SCREEN 7-inch high-contrast touchscreen display ensures to be the focal point and highlight of every MB Quart audio installation showcase
Rob Anderson, Marketing and Creative Director said, “This source unit will make an amazing upgrade to every MB Quart audio installation with tons of incredible new features like controlling volume in two different areas independently with dual-zone audio control to total sub-level control and an amazing 10-Band EQ. The source unit also includes an integrated four-button auxiliary switching system adding flexibility to every listening session. I am pumped for people to see what this monster of a source unit can do with all of these enhanced features while being fully protected against the elements with LIFE SHIELD IPX-Rated.”
The ALL-NEW GMR7V1 source unit is changing the MB Quart source unit landscape with dual-zone audio control and dual-zone video inputs and remains completely waterproof with LIFE SHIELD protection. Audio was meant to be controlled and powered with innovation that pushes the boundary forward. The source unit landscape has been upgraded into new dimensions of additions and features with the GMR7V1 waterproof CarPlay source unit.
Upgrade your MB Quart audio system to the GMR7V1 waterproof touchscreen Apple CarPlay source unit and embrace more audio features, user-friendly control, and a larger touchscreen display that enhances every MB Quart audio installation on every Marine, UTV, RV, or Mobile vehicle. GMR7V1 has ARRIVED!
MAKE SURE to contact your Maxxsonics Sales Representative NOW as orders for the ALL-NEW MB Quart GMR7V1 waterproof touchscreen CarPlay source units are GOING FAST!
DANIA BEACH, FL (06.15.23) – Tury Vehicle Enhancement products is excited to announce the newest item to the line up.
The FAST, or Full Acceleration and Safety Technology, product line just got a wicked set of upgrades with the launch of the new FAST MAX series of interfaces. This new throttle control system is not just another signal modifier that gives a vehicle a more responsive feel, it is now a safety device giving drivers peace of mind.
Building on the FAST 3.0 that has become a fan favorite, Tury has added a couple of new hardware features to make the MAX even more desirable. From the new Megic Key Bluetooth Fob (sold separately) to the direct wire input compatible with most telematic units, the FAST MAX can now function as an anti-carjacking device and vehicle immobilizer. Some software updates include features like an AutoLock that now keeps the throttle inactive unless a friendly smartphone or paired MagicKey is detected.
“We are very excited about this amazing release from TURY that will be an incredible asset to protect vehicles all around the country” stated Diogo Iannacconi, CEO of HKI-USA, the importer for Tury.
For more information about the Tury and the other HKI brands, please visit hki-usa.com or e-mail info@hki-usa.com.
MIDDLETOWN, CT (06.14.23) – GoFast Solutions, a leading provider of 12V electronics solutions, is proud to announce its appointment as the authorized distributor for Clarion Marine in the New England region, New York including NY Metro, and North & Central New Jersey. This partnership brings together two industry leaders dedicated to delivering high-quality marine audio and entertainment systems to boating enthusiasts in the Northeastern United States.
As an authorized distributor, GoFast Solutions will offer an extensive range of Clarion Marine products, including state-of-the-art marine audio receivers, amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, and accessories. Known for their exceptional sound quality, durability, and innovative features, Clarion Marine products are specifically designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring an unparalleled audio experience for boaters.
Bob Hernandez showcases a selection of Clarion Marine Audio in the GoFast Solutions studio in the Middletown, CT.
With this collaboration, customers in New England, New York, and North & Central New Jersey can now access Clarion Marine’s cutting-edge audio solutions through GoFast Solutions’ extensive network of authorized dealers and retailers. Boaters and marine enthusiasts in the region will benefit from GoFast Solutions’ expertise in marine electronics, exceptional customer service, and commitment to delivering superior products.
“We are thrilled to be appointed as the authorized distributor for Clarion Marine in the New England, New York, and North & Central New Jersey territories,” said Bob Hernandez Director of Sales for GoFast Solutions. “Clarion Marine is renowned for its exceptional audio technology, and this partnership allows us to offer the highest quality marine audio solutions to our valued customers. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings and look forward to serving the boating community in the Northeastern United States.”
GoFast Solutions has a proven track record in delivering premium marine electronics products and services. With their extensive knowledge of the boating industry, they are well-positioned to provide personalized support, technical expertise, and comprehensive solutions to boaters and dealers alike.
For more information about GoFast Solutions and their range of Clarion Marine products, please visit their website at www.gofst.com or contact their sales team at info@gofst.com
HOLLY HILL, FL (06.14.23) – Metra Electronics will attend KnowledgeFest at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, June 23-25, to showcase their latest aftermarket installation products and host new training sessions. They will display a Nissan 350Z Roadster, fully customized with Metra products by GNC Customs in Goshen, Indiana at their booth, #201. Metra’s training sessions will cover new Shuriken Lithium Series batteries, dash kits for the newest vehicle applications, integrations for Tesla, next-generation Axxess DSP products, innovations from iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems, and more! Attendees will also learn about Metra’s new dealer-only brands; Proscenium, featuring high-quality audio products, and Tsunami, featuring clean wire solutions for audio installations. Training sessions will include:
“Metra’s 2023 New Products Overview” – June 23 at 12:30 PM Overview and education on Metra’s newest products launched at the 2022 SEMA Show. This training covers Shuriken’s new line of lithium-ion and lithium-iron batteries, dash kits for the newest vehicle applications, integrations for Tesla, next-generation Axxess DSP products, innovations from iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems, and more! Attendees will also learn about Metra’s new dealer-only brands, Proscenium and Tsunami.
“Axxess New Product Overview” – June 23 at 1:45 PM Learn about the newest integration accessories from Axxess, designed to help installers deliver upgraded sound systems and everyday convenience to drivers with less labor and work in the install bay. This training will cover new vehicle-specific DSP packages, amp retention interfaces, STOP/START engine override interfaces, AXTC Series interfaces, line output converters, DSP T-harnesses, and more.
“Proscenium LOCs and Tsunami Wiring, Our Dealer-Only Product Lines” – June 23 at 3:00 PM Two new dealer-only brands have been added under the Metra Electronics umbrella. Proscenium offers high-quality products that every installer needs when designing a flexible audio system, including High-Voltage Active Line Output Converters (LOCs), Premium Active LOCs with Bass Restoration, and Premium Load Resistors. This session will also cover new clean wire solutions such as audio connections, power, ground, and speaker wire, amp installation kits, battery terminals, distribution blocks, fuse holders, and more from Metra’s newly revived Tsunami brand.
“New Motorcycle & PowerSports Upgrades” – June 24 at 4:15 PM New accent lighting, driving lights, audio accessories, and more are designed to fit select Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Can-AM Rykers. New products covered will include a 7″ Reflector Headlight with Full Halo, 4.5″ Reflector Passing Lights with Full Halo, a 16-Piece Chasing LED Strip Kit, Cut-In Saddlebag Lids, a Vent Grille Light, Keystone Lights, new Speaker adapter harnesses, a new Chasing Accent Lighting Kit, and much more. This training will show you how to easily stylize your customers’ motorcycles and powersports vehicles with less time spent on wiring and custom fabrication.
“Simplify your Install with Axxess DSPs” – June 24 at 5:30 PM The AXDSP-X and AXDSP-L lines are patented DSP products that help simplify installation and provide affordable audio solutions. This training will cover Axxess DSPs, highlight new vehicle-specific products, and showcase the newest app features. Metra’s experts will explain how these solutions can increase sales in the showroom and decrease installation time, as well as how to use and set up Axxess DSPs through the app for complete tuning control when to use the DSP “Lite” versus “X” solutions, and more.
Metra’s customers can register for the KnowledgeFest event at no cost using Metra’s VIP code, available by request from their sales representative. Once registered for the event, attendees will also need to register online at KnowledgeFest.org for each training session they will attend.
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.
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
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.
12VoltNews.com 