Industry

Aron Demers to Keynote State of the Industry at MasterTech Expo

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TEMPE, AZ (01.16.23) – The second annual MasterTech Expo will welcome Aron Demers to the stage for the State of the Industry interview and discussion, hosted by MasterTech Expo Founder Bryan Schmitt. Demers is a 32-year participant of the automotive electronics industry and serves as Vice President, Automotive Aftermarket Business for VOXX International. The interview and discussion will take place during the final day of MasterTech Expo, held Mach 5-8, 2023 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz.

This year, the State of the Industry gathering will focus on future challenges of the automotive electronics industry and the impact of OEM innovations and collaborations on aftermarket products and system access. Of particular note is the topic of subscription-based, in-vehicle amenities.

“I am honored to be asked to share my knowledge and insight to speak at the 2023 MasterTech Expo,” said Demers. “The OEM and aftermarket have been tied together since the first consumer bought tires from a retailer that was not the car dealership. Since being involved in the Mobile Electronics industry for the last 32 years, I have seen the aftermarket consistently pivot to address new opportunities and deliver consumers enhanced in-car experiences. And today, with profits and technologies driving both the OEM and aftermarket, we need more than ever to be nimble enough to capitalize on every opportunity possible.”

“We are thrilled that Aron accepted our invitation to empower our guests with his knowledge and experience,” added Schmitt. “It is our hope that attendees will leave with a broader insight of the larger automotive community, and renewed enthusiasm to meet the challenges ahead.”

To attend the MasterTech Expo, sign up at mastertechexpo.com.

25th Anniversary dB Drag Championship Rings Have Arrived

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AUSTIN, TX (01.16.22) – Congrats to the 25th Anniversary dB Drag Racing World Finals Champions and big THANKS to Incriminator Audio for sponsoring the rings. Please post your ring pic and tag dB Drag Racing!

25th Anniversary World Finals Champions

dB Drag Racing
Street Stock 1K – Team Directronix Poptart
Pro Stock 2K – Team Last Minute
Pro Stock 5K – Team Soundcheck Kenneth
Pro Stock Trunk 5K – Team Directronix Matt
Pro Stock Wall 5K – Team Mach 1
Pro Stock NL – Team Crossfire Eric
Super Street NW – Team Directronix Dan
Super Street 1-2 – Team Soundcheck Butthurt Exp
Super Street 3-4 – Gorman Cassidy
Super Street 5+ – Beau Boren
Super Street X – Team Crossfire Donteay
Extreme NL – Team Soundcheck

Bass Race
120.0 dB to 129.9 dB – Audiodreamland Chris
130.0 dB to 139.9 dB – Team Directronix David
140.0 dB to 149.9 dB – Team Directronix Matt
150.0 dB to 159.9 dB – Team Fx Jimbo

Psychlone Demo
Demo No Wall – Julius Mack Johnson III
Demo Wall – Team DC Lucas
Demo Extreme – DD Tank

Top Dog – Team Fx Jimbo

Freestyle
Freestyle Street Stock 1K – John Bennett
Freestyle Pro Stock NL – Team Crossfire Eric
Freestyle Pro Stock 5k – Chad Flopbox Bleeke
Freestyle Super Street NL – Team Fx Jimbo

Visit dbdragracing.com for more.

The 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Rolling in Year 5

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.13.23) – WTF…Where’s The Fun! Definitely…..the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolling in Year 5. Created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry receiving a prize puts a smile on winner’s faces.

Audio Excellence was the winner of the 12volt Spin-To-Win 209 which was a Maximum Power 4 Gauge Amp Kit. The prize was shipped from Shiflet & Dickson in Gastonia NC and Sam Baker is set to receive the in Orlando.

Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA was the winner of the 12volt Spin-To-Win 208. The JBL Marine Tower Speaker system, with a $850 MSRP, The prize was received by Andy Kahla’s team and they are excited to put the prize in a big upcoming marine installation.

The Maximum Power 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 209 prize packed to ship to Audio Excellence.

12volt Spin-To-Win winners are selected from posts made by industry members with the hashtag #12voltspin. So, when making your company’s posts to Instagram remember to include #12voltspin to make sure your store has a slip in the jar.

Companies with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, PowerBass, CRUX, JBL, RDV, Kenwood, JVC Mobile, Nakamichi and Maximum Power. There are 12volt News $100. cash prizes on the Spin-To-Win wheel too.

The JBL Marine Tower speaker system prize was shipped by FedEx and has been received by Car Audio One in Chula Vista, CA.

We look forward to pulling your store’s slip from the jar on an upcoming Friday as we spin the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

Always more at 12voltnews.com

SEMA Future Trends Report Gives Industry Outlook for 2023 and Beyond

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.13.23) – The automotive aftermarket is evolving—from vehicle trends to shifts in consumer spending to new vehicle technology. As the automotive specialty-equipment market enters 2023, companies need to be informed on what to expect in the new year and beyond to make the best decisions for their business.  

Set to be released on January 26, the new “2023 SEMA Future Trends Report” will give members thorough insight into where the industry is heading. SEMA members are invited to download the report at www.sema.org/research when it becomes available, and to register now for the SEMA Future Trends: Outlook for 2023 and Beyond webinar, February 2 at 11:00 a.m. (PST).  

By attending the webinar, members will gain insight from Gavin Knapp, SEMA director of market research, and Kyle Cheng, SEMA market research manager, as they cover key findings from the report in detail, including:   

  • SEMA’s updated market size projection and industry forecast. 
  • New data on new- and used-car trends (sales, prices, projections). 
  • An updated forecast on the growth of EVs and ADAS/autonomous technology.
  • The status of the ongoing supply-chain disruptions, its impact on the industry and where it’s going.
  • Outlook and forecasts for the overall economy—including metrics on economic growth, consumer spending, inflation and consumer confidence. 

Don’t miss out—register for the webinar now.

KICKER Marine Audio Goes XL for Performance

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STILLWATER, OK (01.12.23) – Kicker Marine Audio introduces a new series of marine loudspeakers designed for use in the most demanding marine audio installations where ultimate power and performance are required. The new KMXL horn-loaded coaxial loudspeakers incorporate several unique features that set them apart from traditional marine speakers, while building upon KICKER’s Real Marine design ethics and standards.

The KMXL series builds upon the success of KICKER Marine Audio’s KMTC and KMFC horn-loaded tower speakers, widely recognized in the marine industry as the new standard in HLCD tower speaker design. The KMXL series brings much of this same technology to smaller 6.5-inch, 6×9, and 8-inch loudspeakers that can be installed in traditional coaxial speaker mounting locations.

A proprietary high-frequency horn design gives the KMXL series sonic performance provides incredibly smooth and easy listening, even at extremely high volumes. This proprietary geometry in the KMXL horn prevents acoustic resonances and standing waves, providing fatigue-free, long-term enjoyment. Super-efficient, lightweight midrange cone assemblies and advanced built-in crossover networks round out the KMXL designs for unrivaled sound performance.

The KMXL speakers UV treated grilles come in both charcoal and white and like All KICKER Marine Audio products, the KICKER KMXL series’ cones, baskets and grills, are UV and salt fog tested and certified to withstand the marine environment. Speaker hardware is forged from rustproof 316L stainless steel for years of enjoyable use. Neodymium magnets in the motor assembly provide tremendous power, while being extremely light weight.

The KMXL speakers, like most of the KICKER Marine Audio speaker lines, incorporate RGB LED lighting. Add up to 20 colors and 19 lighting modes by adding the small and lightweight KMLC lighting remote ($49.99).

The KMXL speakers come in 3 sizes:  KMXL65 (6.5”) KMXL8 (8”) and the KMXL69 (6×9”) and can handle between 300 watts (KMXL65 and KMXL69) and 500 watts (KMXL8).

When upgrading a boat’s sound system—or installing a new one—look to the KICKER Marine Audio brand for dependability, durability and the best customer service in the industry. For more information visit http://www.kicker.com/marine-audio. 

$649.99-869.99 UMAP

Tint World Ranked for 10th Consecutive Year Among the Top Franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500

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BOCA RATON, FL (01.12.23) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, was recognized for the 10th consecutive year as one of the top 500franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking. The 44th annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500 is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the 2023 Franchise 500 ranks Tint World 368th  for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchise industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur editor in chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative, and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”  

In Entrepreneur’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 44-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.  

Over its 44 years in existence, the Franchise 500 has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

“This is the 10th year in a row that Tint World appears in the prestigious Entrepreneur Franchise 500, which confirms that our strategy for growth is working,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Our vision and commitment to franchisees distinguishes us in this industry, and we’re continuing to offer proven, repeatable systems and innovative support to drive their success in 2023.”

To view Tint World in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2023 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands Jan. 17.

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Rockford Fosgate Expands Retailer Service Network

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TEMPE, AZ (01.10.23) – Rockford Fosgate, the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is pleased to announce that they have partnered with the Progressive Group to expand sales and support for their retail partners in the mid-Atlantic, Metro New York, and Southeastern markets.

As of February 1, 2023, Rockford has appointed Progressive Representatives to represent Rockford Fosgate in these markets. With the integration of long time Rockford Fosgate representatives who bring experience and lineage coupled with the addition of talented new individuals, Progressive Representatives will provide Rockford with a forward-looking team in the field.

“I’m excited that The Progressive Group has been granted the opportunity to work with Rockford Fosgate customers in these markets. For over two decades The Progressive Group has represented Rockford in other parts of the country, and we look forward to bringing our customer first organizational approach to all of our new Rockford Fosgate dealers,” said Dave Russell, Business Unit Director, The Progressive Group.

In the metro New York / mid-Atlantic areas Kenny and CJ Giba of Encore Sales will be joined by Bruno Berg in servicing the territory. Fred Dulaney and Mark Berry of Premier Marketing will join the Progressive Group alongside Gregory Wallace and Brian Cargile doubling the team in the southeastern states including Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee.

Progressive Distribution will begin servicing the southeastern states immediately to provide dealers access to the entire expanded assortment of Fosgate products.

Zach Luke, Rockford Fosgate National Sales Manager stated, “The industry haschanged, and so we must adapt to better serve the retailers not only today, but tomorrow as well. By working with Progressive Representatives and Progressive Distributing we can provide real business opportunity for our dealers with a focused approach on their needs.”

Visit rockfordfosgate.com for more.

VAIS Technology Releases SiriusXM Add-On Adapter for ’21-’23 Ford F-150

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ENGLEWOOD, CO (01.11.23) – VAIS Technology has released new satellite radio integrated solutions specifically designed for ’21-‘23 Ford F-150, Bronco and Transit with Sync 4. This solution allows owners of these models to add SiriusXM® satellite radio to their existing factory stereo, without compromising factory functionality.

Dennis Hopper, VAIS Technology EVP, holds the new SiriusXM add-on adaptor for ‘21 thru ‘23 Ford F-150 in the company’s HQ lobby in Englewood CO.

“Since 2003, VAIS Technology have been developing satellite radio adapters for vehicles that aren’t equipped from the factory with SiriusXM® tuners,” Dennis Hopper, EVP, says. “While satellite radio is more popular than ever, many new OEM vehicles still don’t come equipped from the factory with satellite tuners. For 2022 several more OEM’s have removed satellite tuners from their platforms. Over the last few years Hyundai, Mazda, Kia, Jeep, Honda and Ford have removed satellite tuners from their base model vehicles. VAIS Technology develops simple, easy to install integrated solutions that add satellite radio, but preserve factory functions.”

The new kits provide coverage for new Ford models equipped with Sync 4 Radios. Also, all these models are compatible with the GSR-UV01 (universal unit) which can be flashed using online software. This allows dealers to only stock one unit to do almost all applications. 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.

GSR-FD04 is available for pre-order now with a ship date around end of January. Retail price is $349.99 with SXV300 tuner included.  https://vaistech.com/product/gsr-fd04-w-tuner-kit/

2023 SEMA Scholarship Applications Now Open

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.11.23) – The 2023 SEMA Scholarship application period for students preparing for careers in the automotive or performance parts industries is now open and will run through March 1. Interested applicants can review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/scholarships.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance of up to $5,000 to foster future leaders and innovators in the automotive aftermarket industry. A loan forgiveness component is also available to employees that work for SEMA-member companies who have completed and are currently paying off a loan for a program of study at an accredited university, college or vocational/technical school within the United States.

“Education can be expensive, but that shouldn’t limit students from getting ahead in their careers,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “There are so many career options in the automotive aftermarket, and it’s a thriving industry to be in. We encourage students who have a passion for cars a to apply for a SEMA scholarship so that we can help jump-start their careers.”   

The annual scholarship program is a cornerstone of SEMA’s efforts to support career development and access in the automotive industry. Scholarship winners will have the opportunity to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, providing unparalleled networking and education opportunities at the world’s largest trade show for the automotive aftermarket.  

Applicants must be U.S. citizens 18 years or older and demonstrate a passion for automotive hobbies and careers. Scholarships are available in a variety of categories, including but not limited to, accounting, sales, marketing and engineering.

Eligible students and SEMA-member company employees can apply until March 1 at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Harman Intros Infinity Kappa Perfect Amplifier and Speaker Products at CES

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LAS VEGAS, NV (01.10.23) – HARMAN, a premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets made a strong return to CES 2023 with the announcement of several new aftermarket auto products launches from JBL and Infinity.

The Infinity Kappa Perfect Amplifier and Speaker products were launched as HARMAN announced its new partnership with Metra Electronics. This new product line enables the pairing of Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifiers and Speakers with Metra Electronics’ Saddle Tramp DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment for the Harley Davidson motorcycle market.

“The new Infinity Kappa Perfect system on the Harley Davidson in the booth was a surprise to attendees in the booth. All were really very impressed when the heard the system too. The Infinity Saddle Tramp System no longer requires an installer to flash the HD radio. We did it all for you” Shawn Spedding, Director of Sales, Mobile Audio Aftermarket related.

The kits consist of 2 speaker, 4 speaker, and 6 speaker audio systems in addition to accessory lower fairing installation kits for twin-cooled and non-twin-cooled applications. All products feature Infinity’s signature sound and cutting-edge technology at affordable prices. The amplifiers and speakers, once paired with Saddle Tramp’s direct fit brackets and DSP, are tuned by HARMAN Acoustic Sound Engineers to create a best-in-class audio performance and easy installation. The DSP flattens the factory audio settings through its head unit CAN connection.

The Harley in the JBL infinity booth showcased the Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifier and Speaker System.

Detailed work instructions make the job simple to install and provide a factory looking result which installers are proud of, and end consumers can do on their own. The new Infinity Motorcycle kits will begin shipping in April with options ranging from $999.95 – $2499.95.

Visit www.harman.com for more.