Industry

GoFast Solutions Appointed Authorized Distributor for RDV Automotive Technology

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MIDDLETOWN, CT (06.05.23) – GoFast Solutions, a leading provider of automotive accessories and technology solutions, is proud to announce its appointment as the authorized distributor for RDV Automotive Technology in New England, North & Central New Jersey, New York, and the New York Metro Area, including New York City.

RDV Automotive Technology is a renowned supplier of cutting-edge car audio integration products, specializing in wireless CarPlay solutions. Their innovative range of products seamlessly integrates Apple CarPlay functionality into a wide variety of vehicles, enhancing the in-car entertainment and connectivity experience for drivers.

By becoming the authorized distributor for RDV Automotive Technology, GoFast Solutions reinforces its commitment to offering high-quality automotive technology products to customers in the New England and New York Metro regions. This strategic partnership will allow GoFast Solutions to expand its product portfolio and provide customers with access to state-of-the-art wireless CarPlay solutions.

“We are thrilled to be appointed as the authorized distributor for RDV Automotive Technology in New England, New Jersey, New York including the New York Metro Area,” said David Prinz, CEO of GoFast Solutions. “This collaboration represents a significant milestone for our company, and we are excited to bring RDV’s innovative car audio integration products to our customers.”

GoFast Solutions is renowned for its expertise in the automotive industry and its commitment to delivering top-notch customer service. With this new partnership, the company aims to offer its customers a comprehensive range of solutions that enhance their driving experience, combining RDV Automotive Technology’s wireless CarPlay products with GoFast Solutions’ existing product lineup.

“We chose GoFast Solutions as our authorized distributor in New England, New Jersey, New York including the New York Metro Area due to their extensive experience and excellent reputation in the automotive industry,” said Rich DeSclafani, owner at RDV Automotive Technology. “Their commitment to customer satisfaction aligns perfectly with our values, and we are confident that this partnership will bring great success.”

For more information about GoFast Solutions and its partnership with RDV Automotive Technology, please visit GoFst.com or contact us (203) 641-0272.

Maxxsonics Launches All-New Brick-and-Mortar Initiative for New Dealers

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LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.02.23) – Starting on June 1st (Thursday), Maxxsonics is launching an ALL-NEW Brick-and-Mortar Initiative. With this new program and launch, Maxxsonics will be calling thousands of brick-and-mortar dealers nationwide to discuss the exciting details. Get ready to pick up the phone and talk to us! There will be incredible new dealer perks and incentives included with high-profit margin products to becoming a dealer with Maxxsonics. You don’t want to miss out on this special Brick-and-Mortar Initiative launch!

“This is the most progressive independent specialist program Maxxsonics has ever had. The concept is simple – Dealer profit is our focus! This is an exciting time, and I can’t wait to see the results! Get ready to answer and PICK UP THE PHONE!”

-Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics

Sam Dattalo, Vice President of Sales at Maxxsonics, said, “This is simply a fantastic initiative and incentive for new dealers nationwide to join Maxxsonics in selling our products. Stay tuned for more details coming soon, but we are incredibly excited for what’s ahead and exclusive for brand-new Maxxsonics dealers.”

Maxxsonics is very excited to be launching this brand-new Brick-and-Mortar Initiative. With tons of benefits and perks to becoming a new dealer with Maxxsonics that will be announced soon – the ALL-NEW Brick-and-Mortar Initiative is shaping up to be a special Maxxsonics launch program to remember with high-profit margin exclusive products. Details will be coming soon so STAY TUNED and ANSWER THE PHONE!

Visit maxxsonics.com for more.

Synergy Marketing Announces Tim Crawford Is Onboard

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HOUSTON, TX (06.02.23) – Tim Crawford joins Synergy Marketing as Regional Territory Director for North Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Tim Crawford

“Tim Crawford is new to the 12volt world, but comes with a seasoned track record of success in retail management for over 12 years at multiple stores including hi-end retail sales for 7 years at Nebraska Furniture Mart. In addition Tim was in account management for custom install and 12volt distribution for the last 5 years at DOW Technologies” David Toliver, Synergy Marketing Principal, related.

Continuing, “With a heavy mindset on customer focus, relationship building and attention to detail, Tim will be a valuable asset to the Synergy family. Passionate about mobile and home audio, plus the technology behind it, he is looking forward to cutting his teeth in the 12volt industry.”

Based in McKinney TX, Crawford will build upon the proven brands and strategies that already exist with Synergy Marketing in the North Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas markets.

Visit synergyagency.net for more.

Pathways Coaching & Consulting Launched by Jon Kowanetz

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PHOENIX, AZ (06.01.23) – Jon Kowanetz, former owner of the award winning Handcrafted Auto, Marine & Off-road, is now using his experience in personal and professional development to help other business owners with his new venture; Pathways Coaching & Consulting.

“Every few years, I see classes at industry events with the theme of ‘getting back to basics’ and I think that the only reason we need to keep revisiting these fundamentals of business management is because, while the classes provide great ideas, attendees are left on their own to execute them.” Kowanetz said. “And all too often, those pages of notes end up tucked away in a drawer somewhere, once those attendees return to their businesses and put their firefighter hats back on. But that is exactly why I started Pathways; to help my colleagues actually get from where they are now, to where they want to be, every step of the way.”

Jon Kowanetz on stage during a recent ‘Why Should I Organize’ presentation.

To accomplish this, Pathways utilizes two very different, purpose-built programs that are designed to not only help identify the opportunities for personal and professional growth, but support the business owner in achieving them with proven tools, techniques and training.

One such feature is the “Implementation Calendar” which provides not only a week-by-week timeline with which the owner can use to track their progress through specific tasks, but also quick access to unique and helpful ideas on how to do so, all through their own Client Portal.

Another is the “Pathways Academy”; a library of videos and training materials to educate the dealer on how to improve their business in 16 different categories, as well as an 8 part program on understanding their financials and a 51-week educational series called the “Virtual MBA”.

Jon Kowanetz

In addition to all of this, Pathways also supports it’s clients’ understanding and implementation of their chosen improvements with bi-weekly, one-on-one video or audio calls. During these sessions, progress toward stated goals is analyzed to identify what is working and what is not, so that changes can be made in real-time.

“These are not just hypothetical ideas based on imaginary figures that the client is then left to figure out how to apply to their business on their own” Jon explained, “We are using real data from their own P&L to identify changes that we both agree need to be made in their specific business, and then follow a new pathway made just for them until they achieve their goals.”

Combining the proprietary software with his own 15 years of experience in running a successful and profitable business, Jon was able to identify opportunities to add over $17k of annual profit to the bottom line of one of Pathway’s clients, while planning a strategic marketing plan for the future and creating policies and procedures that will later be included in an employee handbook, making the business more valuable and scalable.

“One of my biggest priorities in working with a business owner or manager is to help them finally do what we have all been told to do for so long; learn to work on their business and not in their business.” Kowanetz said emphatically, “I know very well, not only how hard it can be to do that and also how liberating it is once you do. Success for me, in this new role, is when I’ve helped my client create a better work/life balance and a higher Net Profit in a business that no longer needs them to be there every day.”

Kowanetz is proud to offer Pathways’ services to the Northern California and Nevada territories through cooperation with Cardoza & Company and to the rest of the industry directly.

For more information about Pathways, please visit https://whatsyourpathway.com/intro/
For more information about Cardoza & Company, please visit http://www.cardozaandcompany.com

SSV Works Announces New Rear Speaker Pods for 2021+ 2-Door Ford Bronco

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OXNARD, CA (06.01.23) – SSV Works has announced the launch of the new plug-and-play 6.5-inch rear speaker-pod add-ons for 2021+ 2-door Ford Broncos. Available loaded (p/n BR-2B65A) or unloaded (p/n BR-2B65U), the patent-pending system is now shipping. SSV Works launched the 4-door solution for Ford Bronco 2021+ model years earlier this year.

“The new Broncos have become immensely popular in a short period of time, and we quickly realized its audio system needed an additional audio option,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Designed specifically for the new 2- and 4-door Broncos, our new 6.5-inch rear speaker-pod add-ons provide easy installation in the rear factory roll cage using factory mounting locations. Optimized for sound quality, these pods are weather-proof and resistant to extreme environmental conditions, making them the ideal audio systems when out on the trails or on the beach.”

The loaded pods for 2-door Broncos come with 6.5in., 120 Watt (peak) SSV Works powersports speakers with a 25mm tweeter and weather-proof EPDM dual-lock gasket with an MSRP of $359.99. Pods with included Kicker speakers have an MSRP of $469.99. If you already have the speakers, the unloaded pods have an MSRP of $249.99.

Additional features and specifications include:
• Includes stainless steel hardware, molded grommet, & integrated speaker terminals
• Plug-&-Play harness allows for both factory or external amplifier connectivity
• Dimensions: 19.75in x 11.5in x 8.6in
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty of both the pods and the SSV Works speakers

For more information, please visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

SEMA Announces Board of Director Results

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.31.23) – SEMA members have elected Melanie White, President of Hellwig Products, and Ted Wentz III, CEO of Quadratec, to lead the association over the next several years as key members of the 2023-2024 SEMA Board of Directors.

Melanie White

White was voted incoming chair and fills the position held for the past two years by Kyle Fickler (ProCharger), who will begin his term as chairman in July when James Lawrence (Power Automedia) concludes his term in that position. White’s current seat on the Board will be filled by Marcus Umlauff (Toyota North America) for the balance of the two-year seat. Current SEMA Board member Wentz was re-elected to serve another term of three years.

SEMA Board members are industry representatives who volunteer their time to lead and guide the association. They are elected by SEMA-member companies and represent the key membership categories: manufacturers, distributors/retailers, manufacturers’ rep, and services.

Ted Wentz III

The SEMA Board of Directors for 2023-2024 will be as follows:

Board Officers

  • Chairman – Kyle Fickler, Director of Business Development, ProCharger
  • Incoming Chair – Melanie White, President, Hellwig Products
  • Immediate Past-Chair/Secretary – James Lawrence, Senior Consultant, Power Automedia
  • Treasurer – TBD

Board Members

  • Rich Butler – CEO, R&R Marketing Consultants
  • Lindsay Hubley – Managing Partner, Lodestone Events LLC
  • Norris Marshall – CEO, BluePrint Engines
  • Larry Montante – VP, Category Management & Marketing, Keystone Automotive Operations
  • Kim Pendergast – CEO, Magnuson Superchargers
  • Brian Reese – President & CEO, T-Sportline
  • Kathryn Reinhardt – Senior VP of Marketing and Events, Hemmings
  • Marcus Umlauff – General Manager-Truck, Toyota North America
  • Ted Wentz III – CEO, Quadratec, Inc.
  • Steve Whipple – President, PRW Industries, Inc.

Outgoing Board Members

  • Tim Martin – CEO, Aftermarket Advisors
  • Les Rudd – President/CSO, Bob Cook Sales

The entire 2023-2024 SEMA Board of Directors and outgoing Board members will be honored and recognized during the 2023 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala (formerly the SEMA Awards Gala) in Anaheim, Calif., on July 21. All SEMA members and industry professionals are invited to join the celebration by purchasing tickets at www.sema.org/gala.

Crossover Marketing Creates Innovative New Incentive Program for Dealers in the Pacific Northwest

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BATTLE GROUND, WA (05.3023) – Trailblazers in the Pacific Northwest market, the
Crossover Marketing Group is thrilled to unveil their new incentive program, designed to reward
dealers who write orders consistently.

The rewards program enables buyers to amass ‘Crossover Points,’ for orders placed across all brands
sold by the Group. Buyers earn points in increments of $2,500 per order. For example, an order worth
$8,000 would garner three points.

The Crossover Marketing Group team

These points act as tickets that are then entered into a raffle for premium prizes, with winners selected
at the end of each month. Crossover Marketing will work closely with our Manufacturer partners to
create exciting prizes and shift focus on participating manufacturers in the months that they provide
support.

Essentially, the more a buyer writes in orders, the more Crossover Points they earn, increasing their
chances of winning a prize. Distributor accounts are factored at a rate of 10X (or $25,000 per point).
“Think of our new Crossover Rewards program as the perfect playlist for our loyal dealers. It’s all
about celebrating your hard work—each order you write is like a hit track, and we want to keep those
hits coming! Easy, fun, and a big ‘thank you’ from us to our dealers. With us you’re not just a
dealer—you’re a rockstar!” said Rob Sutton of Crossover Marketing.

Every month, we will randomly draw a winner from all the Crossover Points earned during that month,
then start over with all new points the next month. Monthly winners will be notified by email.

Please visit the following link for an informative video: https://tinyurl.com/xover-points.

Elite Audio Utilizes Social Media to Connect with Followers and Consumers

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SPARTENBURG, SC (05.30.23) – Elite Audio, with Joe Zelano behind the wheel, has served the community and surrounding area for over 30 years.

“It’s been a fun journey and we have certainly seen tremendous changes across the 12volt industry. Not only in products and vehicles but how to reach and connect with consumers in today’s internet driven marketplace,” Zelano stated.

The XL-1250 grille was removed to show the speakers for the social media post.

To stay in front of consumers Elite Audio makes frequent social media posts. “Today consumers spend hours a day on their mobile devices. Social media posts, like a recent PowerBass SoundBar post, is an example. The new XL-1250 SoundBar has 12 speakers powered by a 500 watt amp and sounds great. It also has many applications. The post we made was right before the Memorial Day holiday as many in our area might be on the lake, trail or golf course. Letting them know planted a seed for them to rock over the holiday. Our post showed the SoundBar on display in our showroom and invited all in for a demo. We also included separate images with the grille removed so people could see the speakers. Being able to deliver that message directly to a consumer is powerful,” Zelano added.

The PowerBass XL-1250 Soundbar prominently displayed in the showroom.

Elite Audio was on site at the recent K’Fest in Orlando. “Staying ahead of the curve because we care about our cars and customer’s future enjoyment was high on our list in Orlando for our staff members. The training sessions were very informative and there were super vehicles on the event floor… our hats off to the shops that did the builds. We also made social media posts spotlighting those builds,” Zelano concluded.

The Elite staff includes 6 full time professionals plus 2 part time employees. The company’s product mix include car audio, video, remote start, safety, remote start, wheels tires, suspension, lighting and accessories. The Powersports, bike and marine categories have added to the company’s 12volt side category offerings. Home AV is also included in Elite Audio’s offerings for area consumers.

See more @eliteaudiosc

RealTruck Sales Team Finds Success Through Training at SEMA Garage

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.26.23) – RealTruck Inc.–the premier manufacturer of aftermarket truck parts and accessories–has officially rebranded all areas of its business following a training session at the SEMA Garage in Detroit. 

RealTruck sent its sales team to a three-day cross-training event at the SEMA Garage to ensure its team members are equipped to assist its customers. Participants received classroom instruction on more than 300 of RealTruck’s vast product offerings and hands-on training for the installation of several truck bed covers, including the upcoming Retrax EQ, AMP PowerSteps, BackRack headache racks, AVS LightShield Pro and more straight from the state-of-the-art facility. 

“SEMA Garage offers us a unique opportunity to train a large group of people in a comfortable, well-equipped facility. Having a garage setting that will accommodate a lot of trucks and people to experience ‘hands-on’ installations is an important and welcome resource,” said Ryan Herman, executive vice president of sales at RealTruck.  

The SEMA research and validation facility is 45,000 sq. ft., giving 7,000 SEMA-member businesses access to 3D scanning, 3D printing, ADAS testing, vehicle measuring sessions, fully equipped bays, and emissions testing and certification.

“There really isn’t a facility that can accommodate our needs as well as SEMA Garage. We brought in our entire outside sales force from around the country, and this experience has been a terrific way to teach, share and work together,” said Herman. 

RealTruck announced its rebrand from Truck Hero last July and, since then, has been working with its various departments and facilities to roll out a new brand identity and sales team. In addition, the company has transitioned its manufacturing websites and dealer locator to realtruck.com, making it easier for millions of do-it-for-me truck owners to find dealers and local resources for professional installation.

For more information, including how to sign up for the SEMA Garage services, visit SEMAGarage.com or contact garage@sema.org. For more information on RealTruck, visit realtruck.com.

 

Indianapolis 500 Airs Live Nationwide on SiriusXM

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NEW YORK, NY (05.26.23) – SiriusXM has announced extensive programming plans for the 107th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. 

SiriusXM listeners will have access to the live call of the race from Indianapolis Motor Speedway this Sunday, May 28. Pre-race coverage begins at 11 am ET on SiriusXM INDYCAR Nation (SiriusXM channel 160) and NBC Sports Audio (SiriusXM channel 85). Both channels are available to subscribers nationwide in their cars and on the SXM App.

SiriusXM INDYCAR Nation will also air live coverage the Indianapolis 500 Carb Day Practice session on Friday at 11 am ET. 

Following the practice session, fans at the racetrack can watch two special SiriusXM shows as they broadcast from the SiriusXM set outside the Pagoda at Indianapolis Motor Speedway as part of the Miller Lite Carb Day festivities.

  • At 1 pm ET, James Hinchcliffe – a six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES race winner who has competed in the Indy 500 11 times – will host his podcast, Off Track with Hinch and Rossi. Hinchcliffe’s regular co-host for the podcast, Alexander Rossi, will be in the field for Sunday’s race. Hinch’s co-host for this special episode will be comedian and IndyCar fan, Joey Mulinaro. The podcast episode will be available on all major podcast platforms on Friday evening. 
  • Brick by Brick, SiriusXM’s exclusive INDYCAR show hosted by 2004 series champion Tony Kanaan and Jack Arute, will take the stage at the SiriusXM set from 2-4 pm ET. Kanaan won the 2013 Indy 500 and will be competing in the race for the 22nd time this weekend when he drives the No. 66 Chevy for Arrow McLaren. The show will debut Saturday at 1 pm ET on the NBC Sports Audio channel, and air throughout the weekend on NBC Sports Audio and INDYCAR Nation. 

On both shows, the hosts will share an insider’s perspective on competing in the Indianapolis 500, and listeners will hear them interview several of the drivers who will be competing on the track on Sunday.

Two of the cars in the Indy 500 field this Sunday will display the SiriusXM logo. 2021 Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves will be going for a historic fifth Indy 500 victory when he takes the track on Sunday and SiriusXM will be along for the ride on the No. 06 AutoNation/SiriusXM Honda he drives for Meyer Shank Racing. SiriusXM’s branding will also be on the No. 60 car driven by his MSR teammate, 2019 Indy 500 winner Simon Pagenaud. 

On Monday, May 29, Diplo’s Revolution on SiriusXM (channel 52) will broadcast from the Indy 500 Snake Pit and air performances by Kaskade, DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal) and Jauz.

SiriusXM’s Listen Free event runs from May 25 through June 5, so everyone can listen to the SiriusXM INDYCAR Nation channel and SiriusXM’s coverage of the Indianapolis 500. During the Listen Free event, anyone can turn on an inactive satellite radio and listen to more than 100 SiriusXM channels for free. Click here to learn more.

Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM streaming for free. Click here to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer. See Offer Details.

Channel lineups vary by subscription plan.