RAPID CITY, SD (06.24.22) – Design Engineering, Inc. welcomes Matthew Botos as its new Lead Engineer and Designer.
Botos joined the team on May 10, with his main role focused on designing new products and improving current products. He brings extensive experience in mechanical engineering, computer aided design, computer-numerical control (CNC) machining and information technology.
After 16 years owning his own company, Botos Design & Distribution, Botos is excited to be part of DEI’s work to design and engineer products that solve problems across a multitude of industries.
Matthew Botos
“The sky is the limit for companies like DEI who have the foresight and flexibility to adapt in an ever-changing world,” Botos said.
“It’s great to have Matt on the Team, and we’re thrilled to work with him on developing new products” Mike Buca, Product Manager of DEI said.
He has a passion for designing new products and bringing them to market, and is bringing that enthusiasm and experience to continue DEI’s commitment to providing customers with the highest-quality heat and sound insulation products on the market. “Working at DEI is a perfect fit for my passions,” he said.
An Ohio native, Botos was born and raised in Grafton, and was the 1991 Ohio State Pole Vault Champion. In his free time, he enjoys motocross and anything CNC.
FREEPORT, NY (06.23.22) – KENWOOD USA began shipping the STZ-RF200WD Integrated Dual Camera Recording System in December of 2021. Since that time motorcycle and motorsports enthusiasts have been utilizing this stealth solution to simultaneously record in both the front and rear of their vehicle in full HD 1920 and 1080 resolution.
Vik Moolchandani with the KENWOOD Motorsports display and product in the Avenue Sound Freeport NY store.
Avenue Sound, with stores in Freeport and Patchogue NY, quickly brought this new product into their inventory. Vik Moolchandani, for Avenue Sound related “The KENWOOD STZ-RF200WD was a product that was definitely needed in the marketplace. Soon after learning about the product we placed our order. I how have one installed on my Kawasaki bike and my Jet-Ski. Morris Hartman, from Big Daddy’s, let us know about the in-store product display for the STZ-RF200WD and we have one of the free-standing displays in both our stores. The displays draw attention to the product category.”
Moolchandani points to the KENWOOD Motorsports system camera mounted on the handles of his Kawasaki outside the store.
Continuing, Moolchandani stated, “These working displays are great for making product sales presentations and demos since the Kenwood STZ-RF200Wd motorsports action camera system is fully functional on the display. Kenwood had a program for the displays and we are happy we have the displays in our stores to drive sales.”
The KENWOOD USA motorsports-grade STZ-RF200WD Integrated Dual Camera Recording System has a MAP of $399.95.
Motorcycle and motorsports enthusiasts now have a stealth solution to simultaneously record in both the front and rear of their vehicle in FULL HD 1920 x 1080 resolution. The STZ-RF200WD consists of 2 externally-mounted cameras, a control switch, and a GPS antenna, all carrying an IP66/67 rating, meaning that they can resist high-pressure, heavy sprays of water and are fully sealed against dust entry. The “brain” of the system is an IP55 rated hide-a-way control box, meaning that it is protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets. The control box would typically mount underneath a seat or in another covered location in most motorcycles, side-by-sides/UTV’s, ATV’s and more. When additional length beyond each camera’s 6.6 ft. cable is needed, optional camera extension cables in lengths of 3.3 ft. (STZ-RFCC100, MAP $34.95), 9 ft. (STZ-RFCC300, MAP $49.95), and 16 ft. (STZ-RFCC500, MAP $64.95) can be added.
The STZ-RF200WD’s compact cameras come in at just under 1” in size for ease of installation and a stealthy look, all without compromising recording quality or their wide viewing angle of 195°. High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology is implemented to ensure the image is clearly defined in all lighting conditions day and night. They also feature Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), which creates a smooth and clear video by reducing blurring caused by vibration.
With its Auto On/Off recording functionality, the STZ-RF200WD’s built-in GPS records speed, latitude, and longitude whenever the system is active. It’s also equipped with a 3-axis G-Sensor and adjustable sensitivity, which is designed to detect a collision and store that event in a dedicated folder. Its built-in Super Capacitor provides enough backup supply to ensure that even if the system’s power is lost, the recorded video file will save correctly and not become corrupted.
Users have two methods to access recorded videos. They can install the KENWOOD Motorsports CAM App on their iOS or Android device, then connect via a localized Wi-Fi network by pressing and holding the STZ-RF200WD’s control switch for 3 seconds and continuing to follow their device connection prompts. Once connected, this method enables users to visually adjust each camera’s field of view, adjust all system settings and review all recorded files. Upon reviewing, each file can be downloaded directly to the user’s device for easy file sharing. Alternatively, the included 32GB microSD card (upgradeable to 256GB) can be manually removed from the control box, allowing users to open the files from their PC or Mac using the KENWOOD Motorsports CAM viewer desktop software. This viewing software expands upon the app’s reviewing capabilities, including map data and speedometer display.
“From protection in case of insurance fraud to capturing beautiful road, backroad, and water scenery, motorcycle and motorsports enthusiasts have long demanded a high-quality dashboard camera-type recording solution. This product is more than just safety, it allows you to capture and share your epic adventures with your friends and family,” said Mike Roberts, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for KENWOOD USA’s car electronics sector. “Our team of engineers has truly delivered on this challenge and we are thrilled to be continuing to fulfill our mission of expanding our motorsports presence.”
For detailed information on specific features for each product, please view their respective product pages at www.kenwood.com/usa/car.
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.23.22) – The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the first time almost 4 years ago. With each spin there is a happy 12volt retailer receiving a prize from a top company in the 12volt industry. Dealers that follow the 12volt News on Instagram or #12voltspin have their store’s slip placed in the jar.
The Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner 183 on June 17th, Maximumts in Manville NJ, will be receiving their prize via FedEx this week. We know they will enjoy the Kenwood Qi Wireless charging mount.
ZierBox won the 12volt News $100 prize on June 10th…Spin-To-Win 182. We reached out by Instagram message several times requesting an address to send the check with no reply. Hope we can reach Todd in the Dallas area to get the check in the mail.
Still waiting to hear back with address info to send this winner’s check for Wheel 182.
We received a nice voicemail from 12voltOutfitters letting us know they received their $100 winners check for Spin-To-Win 179.
The crew from 740 Audio in Athens OH sent an in-shop image of the DS18 components prize for their for Spin-To-Win 178.
Received a nice voicemail ‘Thank You 12volt” from Joshua after he received his winner’s check.
12volt brands on the 12volt-Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, JVC, Alphasonik, DS18, JBL, PowerBass, USA Spec, KENWOOD, AIS, SiriusXM, CRUX and NavAtlas. There are 12volt News spaces on the Wheel and we love sending winners a $100 check in the mail.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel was created to have some fun across the 12volt industry and rolls each Friday morning. That day we contact the winning 12volt retailers, post an image of the winning dealer’s slip along with a video of the spin.
The DS18 Spin-To-Win prize in the shop at 740 Audio in Athens OH.
TAMPA, FL (06.22.22) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned technology distributor, announced today the launch of their Price Match Guarantee. The program continues DOW’s commitment to innovate new programs that provide customers the best value in distribution.
DOW’s Price Match Guarantee ensures that dealers can get the best price in the market while also taking advantage of DOW’s free shipping program, Smart Ship. DOW will match the price on identical products sold by authorized distributors within the same territory the customer is located. The guarantee covers all physical products in each of DOW’s areas of business.
“Our goal is to add value for our customers through innovative programs and policies- offering the best price and best service from a single source saves them time and money” stated president & ceo John Yodzis. “This program adds to the enhancements we’ve rolled out over the past year that make purchasing and shipping easier for a business owner to manage.”
“This new program gives us an opportunity to take price issues out of the equation,” added senior vice president Dave Elkin. “At DOW, we’ve always competed using our great customer service and knowledgeable sales team, and now we have another tool to prove our value to customers.”
To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.
SHREVEPORT, LA (06.22.22) – In today’s world, and the 12volt world, it’s hard to find positive news. The 12volt News, and the 12volt Central Studios staffs, work to deliver positive industry news each business day. Creating the 12voltSTP Tool was another example of making it easy for industry members to deliver their company’s brand and activities to members of the 12volt industry.
The images below show Vik Moolchandani with in-store displays in the Avenue Sound Freeport NY Location. Larry Chijner and Bryan Huston prepping for the Steel Valley Regional XI. Marshall Woolford in the KICKER booth at K-Fest Orlando with Dynamic Sales rep Bruno Maffucci. The Alphasonik set up at the Florida Truck Meet in Homestead FL. Joe Zelano-Elite Audio in the Sony booth at K-Fest with Koi Takahiro. Steve Rogers and Ken Wiseman in the new Lucas Lighting booth at K-Fest Orlando.
The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your company’s positive activities and products. Snap..Txt..Presto.. your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318 465 0844 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.
Today, a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone.
To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send their news 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 dedicated members of the 12volt industry. To see over 500 posts #12voltstp on Instagram.
Look forward to seeing your company’s brand and activities in the 12volt News.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.21.22) – Automotive aftermarket engineers and program developers are invited to a first-ever event designed to help them advance their companies and learn about industry technology.
Below are highlights of the N.E.R.D. Symposium taking place at the new SEMA Garage Detroit facility, August 16–19:
Engineer and Service Provider Meetings As technology evolves, the tools and resources to help engineers develop products faster, more accurately and cost-effectively has increased. Engineers will be able to meet and sit down in quality one-on-one meetings with product and service providers, to learn about the resources available and how they are relevant to their individual businesses. Nowhere else will engineers and service providers be able to connect in so many high-quality conversations about the latest offerings for 3-D printing, CNC or CMM equipment, testing labs for ADAS, emissions, the suspension lifecycle and more.
In-Depth Education Hear from industry experts as they share the latest developments about topics such as ADAS and vehicle technology. From the latest research to the newest innovations, you’ll learn important information that will help you develop products that will succeed in the marketplace.
Peer-to-Peer Networking Meet and connect with other engineers who share common concerns and challenges. Get to know one another over complimentary breakfast and lunch on Wednesday and Thursday of the event.
SEMA Garage Detroit Private Tour With access to OEM-quality equipment and procedures, the SEMA Garage in Detroit makes it possible for product developers to troubleshoot software/hardware obstacles as well as dynamic testing in conjunction with local facilities. Engineers will be able to see first-hand the capabilities of the SEMA Garage in Detroit, and discover how the facility is the first-of-its-kind to assist with compliance with ADAS features, emissions requirements and complex vehicle technology, as they tour the new facility during the official Grand Opening celebration.
Engineers, programmers, product developers and product and service providers interested in attending the event can learn more and register here by July 22.
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.21.22) – Jammin’ N June… It’s Summertime and time to ‘Crank It Up’! Your store’s followers can Get Jammin’ N June with great gear for their rides. Let them know your store has the HiTech in-dash media, powerful amps, speakers and more to get their rides Jammin’ N June. LED vehicle lighting too!
That theme can grab the attention of social media followers and consumers to create store traffic for 12volt retailers. Utilize this Jammin’N June graphic for your social media posts. Screenshot it and use it for free.
Online sales have been on a steady rise for the past several years. The COVID-19 Pandemic, along with stimulus checks, led to a dramatic spike in overall 12volt sales in latter 2020 and 2021. Inventory shortages, plus inflation and gas prices have now stemmed business for many retailers. Jammin’ N June themed activities by proactive 12volt retailers can drive consumer awareness and traffic into stores… and very importantly drive sales.
It’s imperative that 12volt retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in the showroom. An impressive demonstration in the showroom will bring a smile to the consumer’s face and can raise the hair on their arms… making the cash register ring also.
In-person retail events and Sound-Off are creating excitement again in the marketplace. These facts indicate 12volt enthusiasts and consumers are ready to Crank It Up and get Jammin’ N June.
Save or screenshot the graphic above to post it on your social media page!
From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The 12voltSTP Tool makes that easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image to 318-465-0844. PRESTO. Your positive activities could be in The 12volt 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.
ORLANDO, FL (06.20.22) – Ocala Car Audio team members traveled the 80 miles to Orlando for K-Fest and team building time the weekend of June10th-12th. Company Owner Parish Tanner and 4 staff members made the trip.
Tanner related, “We closed the store on Saturday so we could make the most of our time in Orlando. Attending trainings, spending time on the K-Fest show floor and networking definitely was time well spent. In addition we had time for team building with the team members and having fun.”
Parish Tanner, Owner- Ocala Car Audio, is seated center as the winner of the mini golf outing. Jeff Falk, PowerBass National Sales Manager and event sponsor, is pictured on the right.
Continuing, “Jeff Falk, PowerBass National Sales Manager, set up a Saturday evening of miniature golf at Pirates Cove close to the hotel. Prior to the golf we visited Twin Peaks to get the evening rolling.”
Parish Tanner (R) is pictured at K-Fest after attending a business session with presenter Thomas Keenan.
Falk related, “Ocala Car Audio is a very proactive dealer in the area and does a great job with the PowerBass brand. Spending time networking on the K-Fest floor, and the later that evening with Parish and his crew, was a time very well spent at dinner and playing miniature golf. My wife joined us and she enjoyed the evening too.”
The Pirate Cove Mini Golf location was the site of a Team Building evening.
Tanner actually had the lowest score and won a few bucks. Falk finished 3rd on the Pirate’s Cove Miniature Golf layout.
The Ocala Car Stereo crew was back at K-Fest for Sunday morning training sessions. “The JL Audio Tuning class was very informative. I also attended a business building session conducted by Thomas Keenan. I had read his book and he gave me an autographed copy of his latest book Open for Business. All-in-all is was a very productive weekend for the Ocala Car Audio Team,” Tanner concluded.
SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (06.20.22) – The commercial vehicle system everybody has been looking for is here. Large 7″ on glass LCD monitor that has a built in 4ch DVR 1080P, split screen or quad view, universal top looking down backup camera and a front windshield camera that is always recording for accident documentation. Two additional inputs are provided if customer wants to add side view cameras. Using all aviation connectors for fast and secure installations.
Advantages:
All in one, easy to install, secure aviation cabling Universal “Top Looking Down” backup camera can work in any commercial vehicle (no need to stock different car specific cameras) Rear screw mount camera is vandal-proof with its all metal housing Front windshield mount Full HD 1080P camera is great for drive documentation Glass mount mirror has a large 7″ LCD screen with built in DVR Unit has 4 video inputs with built in split-screen or quad picture settings Unit can be controlled by its trigger wires or by IR remote control Kit includes aviation extension cables for easy and secure installations Two additional video inputs are provided for optional side cameras RVM-CV200
LAS VEGAS, NV (06.17.22) – The transportation tech of tomorrow promises a bold new world of conveniences, efficiencies and smart operations. From connected mobile apps and digital keys to EV infrastructure and autonomous vehicles, the industry’s top performers are powering up for CES® 2023.
A Vehicle-Tech Who’s Who
CES 2023 exhibitors are industry visionaries, leaders with a tenacious drive and a laser focus on the future. An impressive lineup is already forming.
John Deere
Deere continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to innovation, and technologies that help farmers improve their productivity and profitability against diminishing resources. Deere’s fully autonomous tractor, announced at CES 2022, uses advanced cameras for smoother operation and 360-degree obstacle detection within an inch of accuracy.
Deere extended its investment in autonomous technologies with its foray into autonomous crop sprayers. In April, the company announced a joint venture with GUSS Automation, a pioneer in semi-autonomous sprayers. The move is intended to help growers boost yields of high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables and nuts.
A busy show floor at CES 2022 shows off a fresh set of vehicle tech innovations.
Volkswagen
Emphasizing accessibility that doesn’t scrimp on innovation, Volkswagen innovates to make electric vehicles that push tech boundaries in ways consumers can readily embrace.
Volkswagen’s first all-electric SUV arrived with an EPA-estimated 260 miles of range, 201 hp, fast-charging capacity and other features that facilitate EV adoption. The 2022 ID.4 adds 20 miles of range for an estimated 280 miles. From regenerative braking to an advanced lithium-ion battery in a vehicle that seats five, Volkswagen is modeling how far EV technology has come.
The Picture is Getting Clearer
Next year’s exhibitors know what the market wants and needs. Consumers demand more for their transportation dollar, and industry leaders are giving it to them. It’ll all be revealed at CES 2023. What will you discover? Find out how you can be part of the action.