PHOENIX, AZ (04.11.22) – MTX Audio, of the MiTek Electronics and Communications Group, is announcing it has started shipping its new series of Sledgehammer unloaded vented enclosures. The enclosure line-up will feature ten different models that fit both round and square woofers in sizes from 10 to 15 inches in diameter.
The enclosures are solidly constructed out of 3⁄4” MDF material and internally reinforced with additional baffles for heavier model woofers. The integrated slot ports are designed for maximum air flow and bass output while minimizing chances of port noise. For speaker connections the enclosures utilize heavy duty compression style terminals and come with hardware and speaker wire already installed.
The fit and finish of the enclosures features aviation grade carpeting on the exterior with the MTX Audio logo embroidered on top and the front is finished in a vinyl wrapped baffle panel giving it a high end look and feel.
The full line of SLH enclosures is available for purchase and shipping now.
SAN DIEGO, CA (04.08.22) – The 12volt Spin-To-Win was created over 3 years ago to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry.
On Friday, March 25th with Spin 171, the Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space and the Cutting Edge Audio slip was drawn from the jar. On Thursday, April 7th, Patrick Brooks took I-5 from the NavAtlas HQ in Brea CA south to San Diego to deliver the 27” NavAtlas SoundBar Prize to Ronnie Gumabon at the store.
Ronnie Gumabon (R) receiving the NavAtlas prize in the Cutting Edge Audio shop in San Diego from Patrick Brooks.
“Taking the NavAtlas prize to Ronnie at Cutting Edge Audio was an opportunity to meet him and see the store. Also, get to know more about the business and the store’s approach to the PowerSports category. It was just over a 2 hour drive but well worth it” Patrick Brooks, NavAtlas National Sales Manager, related.
Continuing “Ronnie was very glad to see me arrive. When we opened the NS27A SoundBar box he immediately saw the NavAtlas quality and asked several spot on questions. Then we had a tour of the store and snapped an image in the install bay.”
When the NavAtlas prize was selected Patrick Brooks sent an image from the Brea CA HQ and this post was made on social media.
Gumabon commented, in a phone call with 12volt News, “We sell and install mobile electronics across the board. When a customer comes in with a side by side we get it done. I was not familiar with the NavAtlas brand but now certainly see it as a brand we can do well with in our store. The NavAtlas craftsmanship was apparent the minute I picked the unit up. Now knowing Patrick, as a go to source for product and information, is also a big plus.”
The NavAtlas NS27A Amplified IP6 rated 27” SoundBar features a 200 watt full-range Class D amplifier, six 3.5” full range speakers and 4 bullet horn tweeters. Analog and digital connections too and the only SoundBar on the market with signal out on the side of the SoundBar. Two mounting options are available with direct bar mount plus off-bar cage mounts are supplied for irregular bar design. The NavAlas NS27A has a MSRP of $499.
Hats off the Patrick Brooks for the ‘special in-person delivery’ and Ronnie Gumabon for being a dedicated member of the 12volt industry.
DETROIT, MI (04.08.22) – Federal regulators have launched an investigation involving battery fires and other problems that have forced the recall of nearly 140,000 vehicles built by five different automakers.
The common thread is the use of lithium-ion batteries produced by South Korean supplier LG Energy Solution.
“We understand NHTSA’s latest request is a follow-up procedure to determine if the same or similar batteries involved in the recalls were supplied to other OEMs,” the battery manufacturer said in a statement. “LG Energy Solution will fully cooperate with the inquiry.”
NHTSA is investigating battery fires and other issues related to EV batteries produces by LG Energy Solution.
The auto industry is in the midst of a rapid transition from internal combustion engines to all-electric propulsion. But there has been growing concern about lithium-ion batteries over their risk of catching fire. That has led to a number of recalls in recent years by manufacturers including Ford, BMW and Tesla, currently the largest BEV manufacturer.
Feds now looking into problems
But the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s new probe is focused on LG Energy Solution. It has become one of the world’s largest suppliers of lithium technology, but has been involved in several troubling recalls.
GM has just resumed production of the Chevy Bolt EV and EUV after a campaign to replace the original batteries.
Since February 2020, a total of 138,324 BEVs and hybrids using LGES batteries have been recalled due to problems that include unexpected stalling. The bigger concern is that faulty batteries can short out and catch fire.
That led General Motors to temporarily halt production of its Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models late last year while recalling all models already on the road. It has been replacing their battery packs with newer ones deemed to be at lower risk of catching fire. GM only resumed production of the two Bolt models this week, also using newer batteries.
Along with GM, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Volkswagen have ordered recalls involving LG Energy Solution batteries during the past 26 months.
OMAHA, NE (04.07.22) – “Last Friday Dan Bernholtz had a massive stroke and has a very LONG road to recovery ahead of him. Dan is truly one of the GOOD guys! Dan is one of our best techs here at Stereo West Autotoys and our Install bay manager. We hope to see him as soon as possible under the dash and yelling at us to get him the right product for the car but he has a long road ahead of him. So please help out a fellow GREAT guy in the industry if you can in ANY way,” Brian Hampson, Stereo West Autotoys Chief stated.
Dan Bernholtz and wife Jaime on a sunny spring day.
Dan’s wife Jaime offered, “Dan is breathing on him own. He can move his head to some questions.The stroke did some damage to his brain but they are unsure right now what the long term damage will be. He is still in ICU but moving in the right direction. So many people have reached out and I am beyond thankful for all the support. Dan has a long road to recovery ahead of him.”
Continuing, “Our family truly thanks Brian at Stereo West Autotoys for taking the lead to organize the GoFundMe initiative. We sincerely thank all of those who have already shown their support for Dan and our family.”
“Dan has been with Stereo West Autotoys for 10 great years and we look forward to his return,” Hampson concluded.
DETROIT, MI (04.07.22) – Honda and General Motors revealed today a plan to develop a “series” of electric vehicles together based on GM’s Ultium battery technology with the first of these shared vehicles arriving in 2027.
The two automakers have engaged in a series of agreements during the past several years for alternative fuel vehicle technology, such as fuel cells, batteries and, now, full-on battery-battery electric vehicles.
Unsurprisingly, the companies said in a joint release they will keep searching for ways to collaborate on future technologies that “drive down the cost of electrification, improve performance and drive sustainability for future vehicles.”
GM and Honda plan to produce EVs developed together using GM’s Ultium technology by 2027.
The goal with the current agreement is to create EVs in a variety of popular segments that are currently underserved with affordable options: the current average price of a new vehicle exceeds $45,000 and that number is higher for EVs, even with tax credits.
The first vehicle coming will likely be a compact crossover, as the two sides note it is the largest in the world with annual sales of about 13 million vehicles. Toyota’s Rick Schostek, executive vice president of Corporate Operations at American Honda declined elaborate on what kind of vehicle was coming.
However, Ken Morris, executive vice president of electric, autonomous and fuel cell programs at GM, said the auto company was planning for a vehicle that would “slot below” the recently announced 2024 Chevy Equinox EV with a price point of about $30,000. He said it would be physically smaller and less expensive, although he didn’t provide any detail beyond that point.
Honda and GM’s jointly developed EVs will likely be small crossovers, like the HR-V.
Moving toward common goals The two executives did agree the offerings coming from the newest deal would be focused on customer and dealer wants and needs. One of the “wants” that some may focus on would include autonomous driving capability, which GM and Honda have collaborated on previously, but it’s unlikely either of the vehicles from GM or Honda will have that technology available at launch, the pair agreed.
Aside from the new EVs, the two companies are also looking to expand their collaboration on battery technologies — especially anything that will help drive down the cost of EV batteries.
GM is already working to accelerate new technologies like lithium-metal, silicon and solid-state batteries, along with production methods that can quickly be used to improve and update battery cell manufacturing processes.
Honda is making progress on its all-solid-state battery technology which the company sees as the core element of future EVs. Honda has established a demonstration line in Japan for all-solid-state batteries and is making further progress toward mass-production.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (04.06.22) – Slamology Presents B2 Audio as the Title Sponsor of the Audio Portion at Slamology 2022, being held at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis, Indiana on June 11th and 12th, 2022.
“B2 Audio has been a supporter of Slamology for a long time and we’re thrilled to have them back as the Title Sponsor for the Audio Section of Slamology this year., said Donnie Babb, President of Gauge Magazine.com and Slamology. “This year, their support allows us to bring in some of the biggest names in car audio competition, including MECA, IASCA, USACi and Bass Wars, plus a full section for Demos, so for those who like it loud, this is definitely the place to be in 2022!”
“B2 Audio is beyond excited to be the Title Sponsor for the Audio Section at Slamology 2022. We’ve been patiently waiting for this opportunity to open up so we could be an integral part of the event,” said Andrew Showers, Director of Operations at B2 Audio Incorporated. “B2 has been a proud supporter of Slamology for over 10 years now and it is amazing to see how much the event has grown, and how year after year it continues to be the best Car Audio event in the industry.”
B2 Audio was founded with one major principle; to make better car audio. Their goal was simple, not to be the cheapest, but aim to be the best. A group of audiophiles and industry enthusiasts from Denmark had been doing their homework for numerous years prior to founding what would be known as B2 audio and in 2008 entered the car audio market globally.
“B2 Audio will be unveiling some new upcoming products and demo vehicles at the event; for us there has never been such an open friendly event that welcomes as many different aspects of the automotive scene and brings them together for one action packed, affordable, and always memorable weekend like Slamology. What a great show to release new products!” Showers continued, “There’s not a better place to engage with our customers, fellow automotive enthusiasts, and industry partners than at this event. See you in Indianapolis for Slamology 2022!”
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (04.06.22) – Car audio is about to transform with power that is mean and extreme all in a smaller footprint. No matter the installation size or space available in your vehicle, ALL-NEW for 2022, Autotek MEAN MACHINE amplifiers deliver an experience that brings out higher sound quality with minimum distortion levels while maintaining a more compact and slimmer size. Embrace clear sound that brings out every detail of any song from any genre of audio. Showcased in a sleek, black finish – MEAN MACHINE amplifiers make a bold statement wherever placed in audio installations.
Sam Dattalo, Vice President of Sales at Maxxsonics, said, “This ALL-NEW MEAN MACHINE car audio line of amplifiers is for the audio enthusiasts who want the biggest power in their vehicle installations. Making the biggest power that any line of Autotek amplifiers has ever created while giving you even more space in your vehicle installation, MEAN MACHINE amplifiers deliver sound that’s crisp, clean, and LOUD. Your expectation of car audio will raise when you hear your music transform into vibrant adrenaline of clarity, power, and attitude in every listening session.”
MM-4025.1D MEAN MACHINE amplifier
ABOUT THE MEAN MACHINE AMPLIFIERS LINE Featuring a much smaller footprint in size that creates extreme power with PRO-FI™ high-speed MOSFETS and high sound quality, with minimum distortion levels, audio becomes fueled with new levels of playback. Heavy-duty aluminum alloy heatsink with illuminated logo adds a vibrant display and showcase, while an efficient D-Class topology drives additional power to frequencies while remaining a small footprint.
FEATURES INCLUDE: • LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER CIRCUIT Maximum low voltage signal from the source unit comes into the amplifier through a low voltage circuit • RCA INPUTS RCA inputs and outputs provide the highest sound quality connection • ELECTRONIC EQUALIZER Electronic equalizer provides control of amplifier output with onboard electronic crossover to tailor frequencies to speakers and subwoofers • OUTPUT CONNECTIONS Nickel-plated brass connection with hex set screw terminals allows for secure connection while resisting erosion
MM-4025.1D MEAN MACHINE amplifier input and output end panels
“Autotek engineers have made a focused effort to develop high-end technology that delivers high-powered music.Powering music with low output distortion and low-noise electronic crossovers to direct the right amount of critical midrange and high frequency to speakers, every MEAN MACHINE amplifier gives your audio an entirely new listening experience that places you in the center of your music. The time is now to secure your order – so you don’t miss out on this MEAN listening opportunity,” concluded Dattalo.
Audio deserves power that is clean, compact, and ready for any machine. With Autotek MEAN MACHINE amplifiers, sound will perform at the highest playback quality while bringing out MEAN power in the tightest vehicle installations.
Make sure to contact your sales representative or customer service at 847-540-7700 immediately to secure your order.
RINGWOOD, IL (04.05.22) – Continuing their unprecedented growth, Race Sport Lighting is proud to introduce Trent Partners as their new representative firm for the states of New York and New Jersey. Located in Rockville Centre, New York, Trent Partners will play a crucial role in growing Race Sport Lighting products across the Northeastern Territory. The firm already had been partnered with Race Sport Lighting in the New England territory, but this new agreement allows their entire force to join in the success. Keep an eye out as Trent Partners is eager to hit the ground running!
“I am so excited to have such an experienced and focused Rep Team help Race Sport Lighting in our expansion in these key Northeastern states. They are a perfect fit to bring our new patented product technologies to the market. They are established, experienced, and excited to be part of Race Sport Lighting, and we are thrilled to be partnering with Trent Partners”. – Dave Hudson, National Sales Manager
“Trent Partners & Associates Inc. has enjoyed being a partner in the New England for a few years now with Race Sport but with this new opportunity to represent this category in Metro NY with Race Sport we are incredibly excited. Race Sport has a wide array of lighting options for both automobile / motorcycle / marine and to be able to offer these products to our retail customers here in New York & New Jersey we can service our customers properly. We look forward to a long successful relationship.” – Matt Gonzalez, Trent Partners & Associates
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (04.05.22) – Higher quality sound in the smallest amplifier footprint that Crunch created, ALL-NEW POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers deliver rich playback with clean audio. The perfect addition to any Crunch audio installation, POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers create space and opportunity in the tightest and smallest areas. These amplifiers bring out an “in-car” concert experience with any genre of music with sharper details, richer playback, and immersive listening that transforms installations into clean and smooth audio.
Sam Dattalo, Vice President of Sales, commented, “At Maxxsonics, product development starts in the field with our customers. Over the last several months, demand has increased for amplifiers that have a smaller footprint while still delivering superb performance at a reasonable price.”
With POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers, audio will receive reliable Crunch technology with VersaCross electronic crossovers. PZ2 amplifiers are available in mono, 2-channel, 4-channel, and 5-channel configurations and feature undistorted power in a smaller space that will take audio to new levels for richer listening. With an included electronic equalizer, control of every PZ2 amplifier output with an onboard electronic crossover tailors specific frequencies to speakers and subwoofers
Maximizing vehicle space, whether in the trunk, backseat, underseat, or anywhere in the vehicle, is what makes the POWERZONE PZ2 line stand out from any other Crunch amplifier. PZ2 amplifiers remain compact in size and deliver higher sound quality in every aspect. Every audio installation connected to any PZ2 amplifier will receive an instant upgrade in sound quality and depth of listening.
“The Crunch Product Development team has designed this amplifier line in record time to meet our customer’s demands. The consumer will not be disappointed!” concluded Dattalo.
Crunch POWERZONE PZ2 amplifiers raise the bar for more space in any audio installation while remaining powerful in a compact size to create a listening experience that redefines every jam session playlist. These amplifiers deliver rich and clear audio that transforms any car audio installation.
Make sure to contact your sales representative or customer service at 847-540-7700 immediately to secure your order.
ORLANDO, FL (04.03.22) – VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC) has partnered with the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA), a national trade association that provides advocacy, critical education and resources, networking opportunities, and purchasing programs to bring VOXX’s newest business segment – golf car and course accessories to market.
“We are excited to be a part of the NGCOA for many reasons, one, their advocacy is second to none when it comes to ensuring the longevity of the sport. The second is because we are sure that golf course owners as well as golf cart manufacturers will be blown away when they see the technology that we are bringing to the industry,” said Jonathan Frank, Vice President of Marketing, VOXX Electronics Corporation.
VOXX has an over 60-year lineage in the Automotive space having manufactured for both the OEM automotive sector as well as the aftermarket positioning them as the leader in most categories they are in. Some of the cutting-edge products VOXX is bringing to this space will be VOXX•ekey, an innovative product that allows golf courses, golf car manufacturers, or end consumers to ditch their physical key and use a secure app in combination with Bluetooth® on their phone to start the vehicle – image approaching the Pro Shop and having your “cart’s key” sent to you, automatically. In fact, their vehicle tracking modules can be added to ensure not only where your cart is but keep them from entering endangered areas or hazards.
In addition, VOXX will be bringing various enhancement and safety accessories to the space, like Collision Avoidance, back-up cameras, waterproof mirrors, lighting, audio, and sound emitters that comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Standards for LSVs.
“The NGCOA is happy to have VOXX Electronics Corporation join as Corporate Members”. Says Mike Ketterman, Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships. “VOXX Electronics is entering into the golf space with cutting edge products that the industry will be excited about”.
VOXX’s hardware and software development capabilities come from a strong North American footprint, with offices in Hauppauge, NY, Detroit, MI, Montreal, Quebec, San Diego, CA, and headquartered in Orlando, FL.
“We are excited for golf course owners, manufacturers, and end consumers to see what we offer as well as what we can develop that brings additional profit while enhancing enjoyability in the golf space.” said Frank.
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