Industry

Auction of Classic Cars Raises $2.37M for Northwood University

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MIDLAND, MI (01.10.23) – A classic automobile collection donated by a generous couple to Northwood University fetched more than $2.3 million during an auction Friday, Jan. 6, in Florida.

Michael and Dianne Morey, of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, pledged 35 vehicles from their automotive collection, and the cars were auctioned off at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee, Florida. The auction raised over $2,371,000 to support Northwood University and The Northwood Idea.

Michael Morey is pictured with a portion of the Morey Collection.

“Mike and Dianne’s incredible gift will be forever remembered by Northwood University,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “We have retained a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette to display on campus as a reminder of the Morey’s generosity and American innovation.”

In 1983, the Moreys believed they could build a wood chipper better than anyone else. Mike left his job, invested in a small workshop, and with six employees and a small operating budget, built the Model 100 Brush Bandit, a 12-inch capacity disc-style chipper. Based on the success of the Brush Bandit, Bandit Industries was created, and Dianne actively joined the company.

Bandit designed and launched the world’s first self-propelled track whole tree chipper in 1990 and continues to lead this industry segment. Bandit operates a network of more than 180 dealer locations worldwide, and it currently has 725 employees. In 2018, the Moreys sold the company to their trusted employees, rather than accepting two offers to sell from private firms.

“The Moreys are stellar examples of how ingenuity, persistence and dedication pave the way for success in a free-market society,” stated Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer for Northwood University. “Each car the Morey family donated was part of their family story, and the story now evolves with Northwood University inspiring the dreams of young entrepreneurs from throughout the world.”

At the end of Friday’s auction, Mecum Auctions announced that two of the Morey vehicles were the top two automotive sales of the day. The 1967 Shelby GT500 Fastback sold for $330,000, and the 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda sold for $275,000. The surprise of the day was a 1981 Teledyne Continental Cheetah, selling for $65,000 (which was well beyond its appraised value).

Northwood University will utilize up to $1 million of the cash proceeds to enhance the campus experience. The remaining proceeds will be used to build the university’s endowment to create new scholarship opportunities for Northwood students.

The Moreys previously noted they are pleased their classic car collection will help support young men and women who want to work hard, build something of their own, and positively influence the communities they call home.

“Northwood University is a special place, filled with wonderful students, and we are thrilled to support their mission,” they stated.

Also known as America’s Free Enterprise University, Northwood University’s mission is to create future leaders of global economic and social progress. If you’re interested in supporting this effort, please visit www.northwood.edu/advancement/give.

Mobile Solutions Announces Partnership With Canadian Distributor Importel

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TEMPE, AZ (01.09.23) – Mobile Solutions announced it has secured an agreement with Importel LTD to represent and distribute its products throughout Canada. Importel will carry and ship the complete line of Mobile Solutions products including templates, production tooling and accessories. Mobile Solutions previously was represented by a distributor in Western Canada and following that distributor’s acquisition by Importel, the agreement gives Mobile Solutions a stronger footprint in eastern Canada as well.

“The retailers and fabrication professionals of Canada have always been great supporters of Mobile Solutions and are a large part of our success,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “By partnering with Importel, with locations in Alberta and Ontario, we are able to supply them with top-quality products, delivered quickly and efficiently.”

“Importel Ltd. Is very excited to be the exclusive distributor for Mobile Solutions products in Canada,” said Geoff Theoret, operations manager at Importel West. “We are proud to add Bryan Schmitt’s industry leading products from the Mobile Solutions brand to our vast offerings of premium products found at importel.com. We look forward to helping promote the MasterTech Expo industry training event in Mesa, Ariz., March 5th– 8th, to our Canadian dealer partners.”

Retailers in Canada can purchase Mobile Solutions products by placing an order at importel.com. For more information on Mobile Solutions, please visit mobilesolutions-usa.com. To attend the MasterTech Expo, sign up at mastertechexpo.com.

2022 BOYO Trophy Award Winners

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FULLERTON, CA (01.09.2023) – Vision Tech America, Inc., leading vehicle security and safety product manufacturer of backup cameras, dash cams, parking sensors, blind-spot detectors, and monitoring devices, is pleased to announce 2022 BOYO TROPHY AWARD Winners. Each year, awards are presented to the sales representatives based on their sales performance and quality of service.

Joe Palilla (R), Potomac Electronics Sales, is pictured with his Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2022 Award. DK Chung owner presented the award.

The Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2022 award was presented to Joe Palilla of Potomac Electronics Sales for the four years in a row.

Most Outstanding Sales Rep of the year 2022 awards were presented to Jeff Oliver of J&S Marketing, Dave Gill of SMS, Inc., and John Tatro of Norcal Sales & Marketing.

Congratulations to all award recipients. 2022 was a great year, outperforming the previous year, and we look forward to another successful year 2023.

For more information on Vision Tech America, Inc. Please visit www.VisionTechAmerica.com or email: info@visiontechamerica.com

SBN Presented With Group Achievement Award for Bronco Build

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.23) – The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) was presented with the Group Achievement Award for its all-female Bronco build from the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation. The Group Achievement Award is given to a group of women who work together to make an exceptional contribution to the automotive and mobility industry. This includes exemplary teamwork and leadership exhibited and the significance of the accomplishment. 

’21 Ford Bronco Wildtrak provided by the Ford Motor Co. underwent modifications that represent a culmination of the work of more than 125 female volunteers from throughout the United States and Canada that included veterans, students, mother-daughter and even granddaughter duos, as well as automotive technicians, race car drivers and award-winning car-building sisters.

“The collaboration truly represents the spirit of the build,” added Cathy Clark, SBN chair. “This project was a chance to spotlight women in the automotive aftermarket industry and the ways in which they come together and offer support to each other. We’re excited to see the passion their efforts received at the SEMA Show this year and to see where these opportunities may lead in the future.”

The project began on July 19, 2022, at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, where SBN volunteers, including students from WyoTech, began disassembling, painting and upgrading the vehicle. The Bronco then made its way to the SEMA Garage in Detroit, where final accessories and a vinyl wrap were installed, and the vehicle was prepped for Las Vegas. Throughout 2023, the vehicle will be on display at multiple events highlighting women in automotive.

For more information on the project, visit sites.sema.org/sbn-build.

AudioControl DM-Smart DSP Public Beta Now Available

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CLEARWATER, FL (01.06.23) – The highly anticipated updates to the AudioControl DM-Smart App are now available for Public Beta testing. Thanks to your feedback, these updates have made the app more powerful, reliable and stable for your AudioControl DSPs and DSP amplifiers.

Click below to watch the video walkthrough, where Jeff Smith takes you through all of the important updates and changes.

Click here to download v1.4.01

For Tech Support or app feedback please email: support@audiocontrolmobile.com

2022 IASCA Worldwide Wrap Up, Finals, & 2023 Plans

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EAST WENATCHEE, WA (01.05.23) – With a successful 2022 IASCA season behind them, IASCA President Travis Chin would like to thank all IASCA Members, Sponsors and Judges for their support and participation during the season.

“The 2022 IASCA season was a huge success, certainly a very positive sign over 2021 and since the COVID pandemic. It was great to see many new competitors, as well as veteran competitors, at events across the country.” said Chin “I would like to thank each and every one of them who helped IASCA grow in 2022. The 2022 IASCA World Finals were once again very exciting and did not disappoint.”

The 2022 IASCA World Finals were held at three different venues; for SQ (Sound Quality), the event was held at the Cowan Center in Lebanon, MO. The Judging staff included many long time SQ names that have history through the years, including:

Keith Turner

Harry Kimura

Mike Myers

Justin Silva

Andrea Paulson

Shazad Rahaman

Scott Welch

A stunning collection of IASCA trophies await winning competitors at the IASCA Finals.
The scene from above from the 2022 IASCA Finals in Lebanon.

SPL competition was held in two events, one east coast and one west coast. The East coast event took place at the Farm Bureau Expo in Lebanon, TN and the west coast event at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Albany, OR. Many record scores were set at both events and officiating these competitions included IASCA SPL Judges from across the country, including (judges and support staff):

Scott Sinde

Jeremy Taylor

Ray Pimley

Salvador Vargas

Jose Vargas

Joey Perry

Christle Perry

Tamesha Ledford

Competitors gathered with their trophies at the IASCA Finals in Albany OR.
Competitors capturing action in the Finals’ lanes.

“I would also like to thank all IASCA Sponsors at Finals and throughout the year,” Chin continued to say “Their support reinforces that car audio competition has great value to our industry and we will continue to bring them and our members first class events throughout the 2023 season.”

Sponsors include:

Sundown (https://www.sundownaudio.com)

Karma Mobile Audio (https://www.karmamobileaudio.com/)

Italia HiFi (https://www.italiahifi.com/)

Crystal Audio Solutions (https://crystalaudiosolutions.com/)

Autotech Engineering (https://autotechengineeringusa.com/)

German Maestro (https://www.german-maestro.de/)

TRU Technology (https://www.trutechnology.com/)

Zapco (https://www.zapco.com/)

Arc Audio (https://www.arcaudio.com/)

B2 Audio (https://www.b2audio.com/)

Audio Concepts

Sky High Car Audio (https://skyhighcaraudio.com/)

Surf City Soundoff (https://www.facebook.com/groups/526553134043246/)

Kamilche Dental Center (https://kamilchedentalcenter.com/)

“The work hasn’t stopped since Finals ended though,” Chin stated “We’ve been working on the 2023 rules for both SPL and SQ, 2023 World Finals plans are under way and many major events on the 2023 schedule are being finalized, some of which may be announced prior to this press release, including the Surf City Soundoff, Slamology and the Summer Showcase. We will also be conducting Judges Training seminars in the spring, both nationally and internationally. There’s a lot in store for 2023  and I’m looking forward to yet another successful season of IASCA competition!”

For more information on IASCA Worldwide, visit iasca.com.

The12volt 6-Pack Is Set to Showcase Positive Activities Across The 12volt Industry

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SHREVEPORT, LA (01.05.23) – It’s the 12volt 6-Pack. As the 12volt Central Studios works to deliver fresh industry news each day of the week the 12volt 6-Pack is a way for 12volt industry to catch up on news from the day as they enjoying refreshing in the evening.

Utilizing the 12volt STP Tool industry members in the office or on the road can highlight their day’s activities in the 12volt 6-Pack.

The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to txt their positive activities to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318-465-0844. PRESTO…..your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.

On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are nearly all dedicated members of the 12volt industry.

Check out the 12Volt 6-Pack as The 12volt Central Studios will work to make 6 social media posts each business day delivering fresh positive news to members of the 12volt industry.

For more see 12voltnews.com

Alpine First in Aftermarket to Offer SiriusXM’s Latest Generation 360L Platform

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (01.04.22) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) will be the first aftermarket car audio company to offer SiriusXM-Ready head units enhanced with the satellite and streaming capabilities of 360L – SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment platform.SiriusXM with 360L will become available on compatible head units via a free software update from Alpine in February 2023 and requires the SiriusXM SXV300 Tuner and a subscription, which are sold separately. The compatible head units include the Alpine Halo11 iLX-F511, the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509, the iLX-507, and Jeep-specific head units i509-WRA-JL and i509-WRA-JK.

A History of “Firsts”

Alpine and SiriusXM have a history of “firsts” throughout their 20-year relationship when it comes to providing audio entertainment in aftermarket head units. In 2011 Alpine was the first to introduce SiriusXM-Ready head units in the industry. Now, Alpine introduces the first aftermarket head unit that is SiriusXM-Ready with 360L features and functionality.

“As the first to introduce SiriusXM-Ready connectivity on an aftermarket head unit, it seems fitting that Alpine is also the first to feature SiriusXM’s groundbreaking 360L platform on an aftermarket head unit,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “In addition to adding value to our exciting new line-up of High-Resolution head units, SiriusXM with 360L will provide even more audio entertainment content and personalization from SiriusXM.”

SiriusXM with 360L’s Personalized Listening Experience

SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, providing more choice and a more customizable listening experience. SiriusXM with 360L delivers more SiriusXM channels (350+), SiriusXM’s Pandora Stations, “For You” recommendations, recorded on demand content and podcasts, and more. SiriusXM with 360L in Alpine’s head units will also feature individual SiriusXM listener profiles to allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize and maintain their own SiriusXM favorites and personalized recommendations, as well as voice search functionality.*

SiriusXM’s music channels are expertly curated, ad-free, and deliver an exceptionally wide array of audio choices for listeners. Covering every genre across many decades, channels feature popular tracks and deep cuts from popular artists, as well as introduce listeners to new and emerging musicians and bands. Artist-branded channels from Hall of Fame and iconic talent feature original content that can’t be heard anywhere else. SiriusXM’s concept-based channels, such as Road Trip Radio and Yacht Rock Radio, or its many activity and mood-based channels, are designed to deliver a personalized music experience that fits the moment.

SiriusXM offers the most extensive lineup of professional and college sports in audio; news from around the country and the world from many sources and political perspectives; the scoop on the latest from the world of entertainment; hours of stand-up by the funniest comics; and more.

“We are pleased to be expanding the availability of SiriusXM with 360L and its extensive offering of audio entertainment content and enhanced features to many more drivers by making it available in several of Alpine’s state-of-the-art aftermarket head units,” said Hasib Mohammed, Vice President, Dealer and Retail Sales, SiriusXM. “Alpine’s advanced head units are the perfect way to introduce SiriusXM with 360L to the aftermarket industry.”

SiriusXM offers promotions for Alpine head unit owners that purchase and activate the SXV300 Tuner. Visit siriusxm.com/activatenow for offer details.

Subscribers can also listen to SiriusXM outside their vehicles on the SXM App, available on the App Store or Google Play, and on connected devices and speakers in their homes.

The free software update that includes SiriusXM-Ready with 360L will be available in February 2023 and can be found on the Alpine Knowledge Center (https://kb.alpine-usa.com). SiriusXM-Ready with 360L is available on compatible Alpine head units and requires the SXV300 Tuner and subscription (sold separately).

Timmy Fresh Brand Creates Custom Bicycles and Adds the PowerBass BT-200

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CLOVIS, CA (01.03.23) – Tim Garcia has been building custom bicycles for nearly 8 years in his shop in Clovis CA. Garcia spent a number of years in the aftermarket automotive before opening the Timmy Fresh Brand bicycle shop.

Tim Garcia in the showroom of his Timmy Fresh Brand bicycle store in Clovis CA.

Garcia related “I have always enjoyed creating and working on projects. I decided to own my own business and saw an opportunity to open a bicycle shop. The community of people spending time outdoors and riding their bikes covers a wide age range of individuals. Adults see advantages in customizing a wide variety of products. Bicycles are no exceptions when they learn of the possibilities. We build a variety of customs bicycles with different styles, graphic designs and wheel sizes…normally 26” and 29” with various widths. Our Timmy Fresh Brand creations can add riding comfort for riders.”

Tom Garcia pictured with Yankee star Aaron Judge with a Timmy Fresh Brand Bicycle at an All Ride Charity Auction.

Continuing “In addition, with Bluetooth products, riders can add listening enjoyment on their rides. Many of our customers have portable bluetooth devices. We added the PowerBass BT-200 Bluetooth portable to our store product selection and now make a custom bracket to secure the BT-200 to the frame of a Timmy Fresh Brand bike. About 20% of our customers add the BT-200 and bracket to their creation. We also sell our bracket to bicycle shops across the country.”

The Metallica Charity bike in the Timmy Fresh Brand Bicycle Store.

Offering custom items at charity auctions is a unique venue for a company to know about their brand and products. Early this year Garcia learned of the Metallica All Within My Hands Charity Auction and submitted a proposal that was accepted.

The Metallica Charity Timmy Fresh bike in the PowerBass booth at SEMA 2022.

Garcia and Erik Harbour from PowerBass, had worked together in the past and both are live concert attendees and huge Metallica fans. They had put a program in place to display a Timmy Fresh creation in the PowerBass SEMA Show booth with a BT-200 for all to see. Utilizing the Metallica branded bike was a win/win as many enjoyed seeing the bike in the booth and experiencing the BT-200 rockin’ on the bike.

The Timmy Fresh Brand custom bracket for attaching a PowerBass BT-200 to a bike on the store counter.

“PowerBass was definitely proud to partner with friends at T-FRESH/TIMMY FRESH BRAND custom bicycles and their Metallica Themed Charity Auction Bike. The top auction bid of $6500. was definitely amazing.The bike was a draw in our booth at SEMA and that visibility continued at the Metallica Concert at the Microsoft Theater on December 16th. Having a proactive bike shop owner see the business potential to add portable PowerBass Bluetooth products to their product offerings is a win for all” Harbour related.

Garcia concluded “We are waiting until the information for the winning bid is verified and we receive the information for delivery. We hope the winner is in our area so we can deliver the Metallica Timmy Fresh custom bike in person.”

For more see powerbassusa.com.

Aegis Distribution To Be Distributor for Dynaudio Car In United States And Canada

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VACAVILLE, CA (01.03.22) – Aegis Distribution Incorporated (ADi) announces its agreement with Dynaudio, the iconic Danish speaker maker, and Dynaudio Americas to become the sole distributor of Dynaudio Car products in the USA and Canada.

ADi, headquartered in Vacaville, California, was formed in 2022 by a group of manufacturers and investors with the goal of bringing high-end car audio products to the Americas, tailored and fine tuned to fit the unique needs of these regions.

“Dynaudio will be one of the cornerstones of our high-end enterprise. There is simply no better sounding system speaker,” says Scott Welch of ADi. “I was blown away the first time I heard a properly set up Dynaudio Esotar system, and the meticulous tweaks to the Esotar2 have made them even better.”

“What is truly exceptional about the whole line,” he continues, “is that they have taken a great deal of the engineering that built the Esotar2 and applied it to all their drivers. The MSP cone material, the under-hung dual magnet motors, oversized voice coils, and the HF dome material are now used throughout the line. When you look at their most expensive model and their least expensive model, you can see the differences, but you can also see the similarities. Those similarities, from shared engineering, are what makes the whole line such a great sound value, to all levels of audiophile listeners. We expect great things with the Dynaudio Line, and we can’t wait to get started.”

Dynaudio combined their knowledge gained from over 40 years of innovation with their expertise in building award-winning home hi-fi speakers. Dynaudio’s audio experts have their own uncompromising ideas about how an in-car sound system should really sound in terms of top performance and sound quality.

“Dynaudio is proud to be working with Scott Welch, John Borges and the team at Aegis Distribution,” said Michael Manousselis, president of Dynaudio Americas. “Their extensive product knowledge, incredible passion for high performance audio, and their vast industry experience make them the perfect partners to support the company’s car audio loudspeakers.”

For more information or dealer inquiries, please contact ADi at sales@aegisdis.com or by phone at 707-446-6749.