Industry

Mobile Solutions’ In-Person Hot Rod Build School Is A Success

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TEMPE, AZ (04.26.23) – Mobile Solutions in-house training kicked off its first 2023 event with the Hot Rod Build School 4-day training this past April 15-18. The class featured many new topics that relate to the design, fabrication and finishing materials of custom vehicle interiors. Lead instructor and Mobile Solutions founder/CEO Bryan Schmitt said “Following the successful second MasterTech Expo, we wanted to highlight many of the important hands-on, close up processes that attendees specifically asked for during a more intimate class and shop setting.”

Over the four action-packed class days, nearly 25 attendees were led by a team of 5 instructors in the disciplines of metal fabrication, 3D router work, plastics, lighting, upholstery and more. The instructors included:

• Bryan Schmitt of Mobile Solutions (@mobilesolutionsfabrication)
• Chris Pate of MTI Acoustics (@mtiacoustics)
• Justin Kush of MTI Acoustics (@i_am_fabzilla)
• Wesley Cato of Anything Car Audio (@anything_audio_upholstery)
• Doug Dobson of HKI/Tury (FB – Doug Dobson)

“We presented so many new and cutting-edge techniques in this class that even the seasoned veteran fabricators found many new and exciting tricks to elevate their projects” adds Schmitt. Justin Kush and Chris Pate built an entire trunk in two days that was separate from the class project. Doug Dobson is known as an all-around helpful team player on these projects. Wesley Cato is one of the resident guest upholstery experts at Mobile Solutions classes.

April 2023 Hot Rod Build School workshop topics included:
• How to conceptualize a design and convert to something you can build
• Detailed router work examples for greater precision and efficiency
• Using aluminum in multiple ways for serviceable panel construction and cosmetic interest
• How to seam different materials together (vinyl, suede & carpet)
• New vinyl embossing techniques to personalize hot rod interior design
• New diamond pattern panel technique to emulate upscale vehicle interiors
• Technical vinyl wrapping examples with time-saving tools and preparation
• Where to find premium OEM-grade leather, vinyl, fabric, glue and supplies

Schmitt noted what’s different about in-person training at Mobile Solutions is the diversity of ever-evolving content, the breadth of knowledge and skillsets from the guest presenters and that each attendee does hands-on work with their own take home class projects. Alan Lindgren from Speed of Sound LLC in Memphis, TN said “With custom fabrication representing such a large portion of my business, these classes are invaluable. Attendees are able to take away much more than a few new shop techniques. It’s a comprehensive overview covering business practices, effective shop setup/management and of course, advanced fab skills in many areas”

The class project for this workshop was fashioned after a muscle car or hot rod rear parcel shelf with numerous layers of detail options each attendee could personalize. “Although the project focused on a rear deck application, the techniques from design to execution all transfer to other panels or parts of the interior” said Chris Pate, guest instructor. Justin Kush also taught a session on lighting and design work in the 3D CAD program called Procreate 3D.

NC Carpet and Apex Leather stepped in to support the Hot Rod Build School class with sewing machines and upholstery supplies & materials to ensure all projects were finished to a high degree of quality. Each attendee of course takes their project home to display their new capabilities to their clientele.

Watch Mobile Solutions’ Facebook, Instagram and website for more information when the next in-person workshops are announced, as well as MasterTechExpo.com for the 2024 MasterTech Expo education program details slated for March 3-6, 2024 at Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Arizona.

DEI Sponsors Triple Crown of Rodding

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AVON LAKE, OH (04.26.23) – Design Engineering Inc., (DEI) will be the official heat-and-sound control sponsor of the Triple Crown of Rodding, a new premier event for hot rods and trucks, at Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon Tenn., September 8 and 9, 2023. The Triple Crown of Rodding showcases hot rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 and American-made trucks through 1998.

The Triple Crown of Rodding event was inspired by Shades of the Past, an event that was held for more than 40 years the weekend after Labor Day in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. When that show ended in 2022, Bobby Alloway of Alloway’s Rod Shop teamed up with Gary Case of Stylin’ Concepts and the Sport Truck Nationals to create an automotive event unlike any other, the Triple Crown of Rodding.

“The Triple Crown of Rodding is going to be a one-of-a-kind event. It is going to take you back to the days when car shows were really big events. Not just a show to bring your car to. That’s why we just had to be involved. With the star power of the best builders, the very best of the best vehicles in the country, and all of the DEI customers that showcase our products in their builds in one location, we just had to be a part of it,” said Steve Garrett, Creative Director, DEI. “This is going to be a good one for years to come.”

The Triple Crown of Rodding will feature an elite-level awards program with more than 40 state-of-the-art trophies including the Triple Crown Winners: Best Street Rod, Best Street Machine, Best Street Cruiser, Best Truck (up to ’72) Best Truck (’73-’87) and Best Truck (’88-’98). A brand new 2023 Chevrolet Pickup Hot Rodded by Alloway’s Rod Shop will be given away by luck-of-the-draw to one lucky registered participant.

And if you want star power, there is a long list of A+ builders that will be there that use DEI products, doing meet-and-greets, showcasing their builds, and choosing their favorite vehicles for their very own custom award and trophy. Meet celebrity builders like Phil and Jeremy Gerber (Roadster Shop), Jonathan Goolsby (Goolsby Customs), Jesse Greening (Greening Auto Company), Alan Johnson (Johnson’s Hot Rods), and many more top line builders and celebrities.

For more information about the Triple Crown of Rodding, visit www.triplecrownofrodding.com. For DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.designengineering.com.

The Wholesale House (TWH) Named Deaf Bonce Car Audio Authorized Distributor

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HICKSVILLE, OH (04.25.23) – The Wholesale House (TWH) is extremely excited to add Deaf Bonce Car Audio to its already impressive lineup of 12-volt products. TWH and Deaf Bonce worked together through numerous emails and conversations, with TWH’s Jason Wisecup (Purchasing) securing the line for TWH.

“We are excited to add such a quality line of amplifiers, subwoofers and speakers. Deaf Bonce is a brand that a lot of our customers have been asking for and we are thrilled to be a part of it,” stated Wisecup. He continues with “TWH has been searching for the right partner to fill some big opportunities and we did just that!” The Wholesale House became an authorized distributor April 13th and after receiving our first truckload we are ecstatic to see it flying off the racks.

Check out the new lineup of Deaf Bonce at TWH. Call your sales rep or see the full line at www.twhouse.com

2023 SEMA Show Registration Opens May 1

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.25.23) – Registration for the 2023 SEMA Show opens May 1 at www.semashow.com/register. The annual trade event taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty equipment industry.

By bringing together all segments of the industry – including racing and performance, mobile electronics, hot rod and restoration, restyling and car care, collision repair, trucks, offroad, powersports, overlanding, and wheels and tires – the SEMA Show is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business contacts, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers from good to great.

Registration for the 2023 SEMA Show opens May 1 at www.semashow.com/register. The annual trade event will take place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“With the worldwide automotive industry gathered together in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show gives attendees the once-a-year opportunity to connect as a global community,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA VP of Events. “Attendees build meaningful relationships, develop trust, and strengthen bonds that lead to partnerships and real results. They are engaging on a level that doesn’t compare to anything else.”

Registration of only $40 per person is open to buyers and attendees who sign up between May 1-June 30. Early registration also ensures that applicants will receive important news and updates about the SEMA Show in advance, including actual badges in the mail before the event in November.

“The most successful attendees at the SEMA Show are those who secure their badges early,” said Gattuso. “In addition to saving money, Showgoers who register early benefit by learning about special events, opportunities, and discounts.”

Upon registering, attendees will be guided on exclusive discounts for hotels, best practices for connecting with exhibitors, links to sign up for free educational seminars, details about networking events and activities, tips for navigating the Las Vegas Convention Center, the ability to request a travel visa, and more.

SEMA Show registration is offered in three primary categories – attendee, exhibitor, and media – and everyone must qualify to attend. For more information about qualifying documents and the 2023 SEMA Show, log on to www.semashow.com.

Sanford Sound Connects with Enthusiast on Tracks in the Area

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SANFORD, ME (04.24.23) – Jack Bogard, behind the wheel at Sanford Sound, is very active across the community in Sanford ME and the surrounding area as Sanford Sound continues to grow year over year.

Recently Sanford Sound logos appeared on the track at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway. “The Alan Tardiss car looked super on the track at the Northeast Classic on April 15th. The Sanford Sound logos looked great on both sides” Bogard related.”

Jack Bogard with a young sponsored rider.

Bogard also participates by sponsoring drivers on short tracks, scooters and cycles too, closer to the Sanford ME home base.

“Being involved with drivers, young and old, allows us the connect with enthusiasts who have an interest in audio and upgrades in their daily drivers and other vehicles. They come into our store to check out options…and many times they bring fiends. I enjoy time at the track so ultimately it’s a win/win” Bogard stated.

Jack Bogard (R) and Alan Tardiss trackside at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway showing the Sanford Sound logos on the race car.
A sponsored race car in front of the Sanford Sound location in Sanford, ME.

Sanford Sound also has banners stage side at local concerts and is readying for the 27th Annual Show-N-Soud on Sunday July 30th at the company’s Sanford ME location. Be sure to meet Katherine…Ms Sanford Sound.

The Sanford Sound RZR was on display in the Memphis Audio booth at the GoFast Expo 23 as Jack Bogard and the team continued to be active across the 12volt industry.

Promo activity for the 27th Annual Show-n-Shine is underway.

Visit sanfordsound.com for more.

2023 NFL Draft to Air Live on SiriusXM

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NEW YORK, NY (04.24.23) – SiriusXM announced its coverage of the 2023 NFL Draft, which will feature live announcements of every selection from every round and in-depth analysis on the SiriusXM NFL Radio channel, as well as additional NFL Draft-focused programming on the SiriusXM College Sports Radio channel.

From the first round on Thursday, April 27, through the final round on Saturday, April 29, SiriusXM NFL Radio will broadcast onsite in Kansas City, MO. Live coverage will air Thursday and Friday from 7 pm – midnight ET/6 – 11 pm CT and Saturday from noon – 7 pm ET/11 am – 6 pm CT. Listeners will hear the announcements of all 32 teams’ selections through all seven rounds, as well as interviews with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and dozens of draftees, general managers and coaches.

SiriusXM NFL Radio’s NFL Draft broadcast team will be anchored by Jason Horowitz.  SiriusXM’s expert analysts all three days will be former NFL scout, coach and front-office executive Pat Kirwan, former NFL quarterback Jim Miller and former coach Rick Neuheisel. 

Immediately following the conclusion of SiriusXM NFL Radio’s Draft broadcast each day, the channel will have live call-in shows where fans can share their reactions and discuss their favorite team’s picks. Alex Marvez and Kirk Morrison, a former third round selection, will host the Thursday and Friday post-Draft shows, and Zig Fracassi will be joined by former first round pick Ryan Leaf post-Draft on Saturday.

On Wednesday, April 26, Rick Neuheisel and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik will host a special SiriusXM NFL Radio show live from the NFL Play Football Draft Prospect Clinic and Community Event at Central High School in Kansas City from 11 am – 1 pm ET/ 10 am – noon CT. The show will feature one-on-one interviews with several of the NFL Draft prospects.

SiriusXM NFL Radio is available to subscribers nationwide in their cars (channel 88) and on the SXM App (https://siriusxm.us/SXMNFLRadio).

In addition to SiriusXM NFL Radio’s coverage, SiriusXM College Sports Radio (channel 84) will broadcast live from Taps on Main in downtown Kansas City on Thursday, April 27 and Friday, April 28 starting at 6 pm ET/5 pm PT through the final selection each day. Kris Budden will anchor these shows. She will be joined by Mark Dominik and former NFL players EJ Manuel, who was a first round pick in 2013, and Jacob Hester, a third round selection in 2008.

ORCA Announces First Training and Certification for GA-BARNIE Audio Measuring System

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CAMARILLO, CA (04.21.23) – ORCA Design and Manufacturing announced it will hold a training and certification event on the upcoming Gladen GA-BARNIE (Binaural Audio Record Non Interferece Elaborate) sound measurement system, June 1-4, at Mobile Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. The in-depth workshop will be held in conjunction with Mobile Solutions’ MasterTech training module. Participants will be selected by Orca and receive complimentary tuition, meals and hotel accommodation.

The GA-BARNIE debuted at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas and MasterTech Expo earlier this year. The unique system consists of a faux head with built-in microphones at the ear locations. The head is placed in the vehicle to emulate how drivers and passengers receive sound, enabling the technician to precisely tune frequencies and align the timing at which sounds reach the listener. The GA-BARNIE connects to, and works with, DSP-equipped Gladen / Mosconi amplifiers.

“We are very excited about the introduction of the BARNIE system,” said Nalaka Adikari, national sales director of Orca. “This training and first-of-its-kind certification will ensure our technicians fully understand the power and benefits of BARNIE combined with Gladen Mosconi DSP. Our objective is to empower retailers to create accurate and unique sound experiences for their clients.”

The GA-BARNIE will be available to Orca retailers this quarter.

For more information, please visit mosconi-america.com.

2023 Powersports Market Trends: Growth Is the Outlook

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.21.23) – The vehicular market segment that industry-watchers refer to as the “powersports” market is, in a way, easier to label than it is to define. What, after all, is the connective tissue that joins such disparate market segments as ATVs and side-by-sides, motorcycles and dirt bikes, snowmobiles and personal watercraft–especially considering that very few of these vehicles are ever used in a “sporting,” i.e., competitive venue?

Whatever it is, one thing is certain: the powersports market is growing. The U.S. market experienced an unprecedented surge in demand in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, and combined with low levels of inventory, the market enjoyed record profitability at the dealership level. Likewise, the global powersports market grew by a record-setting 10% in global unit sales in the year 2020, according to a 2022 study from Stratview Research. And while sales have cooled gradually since then, more growth is the outlook going forward.

Polaris RANGER SP 570 NorthStar Edition

How much? The global powersports market, currently valued at $37 billion, is forecast to reach a valuation of $69 billion by 2032, with a 6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the period, according to a 2023 survey published by Allied Global Insights. This expected surge is ascribed to several factors, including the increased popularity of larger side-by-side UTVs in the North American market; the lingering impacts of COVID-19 and its stimulative effect on backcountry travel; increased allocations from government entities for military use; increased consumer demand in South America and the Middle East; and increased demand for electrification, particularly in the European market.

In any event, the powersports market presents considerable growth opportunities for companies that currently serve this sector, as well as for others that can innovate new technological advancements for these vehicles and bring them successfully to market.

For this article. we consulted several industry experts for their assessments of the powersports market. What follows has been edited for clarity and length. This article was written by Douglas McColloch for sema.org

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Oracle Lighting Illuminates Jeep Beach 2023

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METAIRIE, LA (04.20.23) – Oracle Lighting is proud to announce it will exhibit during Jeep Beach 2023, held in Daytona Beach, Fla. from April 23-30 as part of the event’s 20th anniversary celebration.

“Jeep Beach is the ideal event to showcase Oracle Lighting’s Jeep-specific lighting solutions,” explained Melissa Parker-Boudreaux, Oracle Lighting National Sales Manager. “As an American company that designs our products with pride in Louisiana, Jeep is an iconic brand and Jeep owners are hard-core enthusiasts that only want the best aftermarket products for their rides. So, partnering with Jeep Beach is a great match and we can’t wait to get to Florida for this year’s event.”

According to event organizers, Jeep Beach is one of the largest Jeep-exclusive events in the world, attracting more than 225,000 people and 25,000 Jeeps to Daytona Beach, Fla. in 2022. All 50 states and 34 countries were represented last year.

During Jeep Beach 2023, Oracle Lighting will feature a number of its new and acclaimed Jeep-specific lighting solutions, including the Jeep Oculus Headlight, Jeep Flush Tail Lights, Integrated Light Bar, Side Track, Skid Plate, and more.

Oracle will also be offering on-site sales and swag (free with purchase).

Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive aftermarket since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, please visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

CTK In Car Products Welcomes Mike Keenan as Head of UK Sales

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CHESHIRE, UK (04.17.23) – CTK UK distributed by In Car Products Limited welcomes Mike Keenan as Head of UK Sales.

Mike brings an extensive background in the automotive industry working with premium brands within the sector over a 15 year period. Throughout this period Mike has worked within both the UK and European countries working with distributors using his skills as an effective communicator, manager and strategic planner to provide company results.

“Being within the industry for such a long time and developing not only a skill set but as a person, the opportunity to work with In Car Products Limited and head CTK within the UK and Ireland was one not to be missed knowing from my experience is one of the market leading manufactures within Europe for sound deadening and thermal insulation products” said Mike Keenan.

“We are thrilled that Mike has joined the In Car Products team” said Daniel Molyneux, Finance and Operations Director. “Mikes industry experience and talents will ensure we drive and continue to grow the CTK sound deadening and thermal insulation across the United Kingdom and Ireland.”

Mike will oversee the distribution across the whole of the UK and Ireland.

Visit www.ctkuk.com for more information or contact Mike directly on +44(0)7930 349957 or mkeenan@incarproducts.co.uk