Industry

DEI Returns as Sponsor of One Lap of America

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AVON LAKE, OH (03.07.22) – Design Engineering, Inc. is supporting the 2022 Tire Rack One Lap of America presented by Grassroots Motorsports Magazine, a unique weeklong drive-and-race event that covers 3,500 miles.

Piloting some of the world’s most advanced street cars, One Lap participants begin and end the event in South Bend, Indiana, following a circuitous route including stops in South Carolina, Alabama and Kansas.

“We’ve had a great relationship with DEI for 20 plus years and we’re looking forward to another great year with them as a sponsor,” stated event founder Brock Yates.

Over the seven days of competition, drivers will test their overall skills in a variety of challenges including skid pad, autocross, drag strip, racetrack and highway transit. Teams are self-managed, have no support crews, and must start and finish on the same set of tires.

“We are excited to be a part of this annual historic event,” said Will Farkas, Social Media and Sponsorship Coordinator at DEI. “It really is a true test of endurance and vehicle preparation, and we’ll be offering a discount on our products for all 2022 One Lap of America race teams.”

The event begins April 30 with driver registration and concludes May 8. Enthusiasts can follow along on Facebook and/or through available livestreams.

The full 2022 schedule is:
 
April 30 – Tire Rack Wet Skid Pad (South Bend, Indiana)
 
April 30 – Grissom Air Force Base (Peru, Indiana)
 
May 1 –  Nashville Superspeedway Roval Course (Gladeville, Tennessee)
 
May 2 –  Carolina Motorsports Park National Standard Track  (Kershaw, South Carolina)
 
May 2 – Lanier Speedplex Oval (Braselton, Georgia)
 
May 3 – Barber Motorsports Park (Birmingham, Alabama)
 
May 4 – Hallett Motor Racing Circuit (Jennings, OK)
 
May 5 – Heartland Park Grand Prix Course (Topeka, Kansas)
 
May 6 – Putnam Park Road Course 10 Turn Long Course (Mount Meridian, IN)
 
May 7 – Tire Rack Dry Skid Pad (South Bend, Indiana)
 

For more information about DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Metra Electronics to Present Lighting Training Session at the 2022 MasterTech Expo

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HOLLY HILL, FL (02.26.22) – Metra Electronics is heading to the 2022 MasterTech Expo in Mesa, AZ, from March 6th to 9th and will present a training session about aftermarket lighting. The training, “New Vehicle Lighting Trends with Heise,” will cover a wide range of lighting solutions that 12volt installers can sell to meet the latest trends in automotive lighting.

Attendees will learn about the new and improved Heise lightbars and cube lights, projector series LED bulbs, new wheel lights, RGB and RGBW underglow kits, and the popular third brake light designed for the new 2021 Ford Bronco. It includes valuable tips for selling and installing these new LED lighting solutions from Heise.

This training session is hosted on Tuesday, March 8th, from 7:00 PM until 8:30 PM in the Delta Hotel Ballroom C conference room. This hotel is directly adjacent to Building B at the Mesa Convention Center. On the exhibitor show floor in the Mesa Convention Center, Metra Electronics will showcase all of its 12volt brands at booth 107 during the three-day event.

Additional information about the event is available at MasterTechExpo.com.

Magnadyne Adds Daniel Hernandez to the Team

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COMPTON, CA (02.28.22) – Magnadyne is pleased to announce the addition of Daniel Hernandez to its Tech Support and Product Development Team. Daniel is an accomplished Master MECP certified Tech, and Sales Professional.

Over Hernandez’s twenty year career in the automotive aftermarket sector, he has earned several Awards for his roles and contributions in both Sales and Technical Support positions he held with both VOXX International and Trent Partners & Associates.

Daniel Hernandez, pictured with Magnadyne products in his Prius, in between meeting with dealers.

In his new role at Magnadyne, Hernandez will lead efforts across a wide spectrum of key initiatives centric to the company’s Tech Support activities, Product Development, and Installer centric Programs; with key emphasis on further strengthening of the Carbine and Silencer Security and Remote Start Product launch and product road map. Hernandez will also contribute to key initiatives within the core RV and Trucking Segment OE solutions and expansion.

“I am excited to have Daniel join the team. Daniel possesses a rare skill set in our industry… one that blends both Technical and Sales Theologies that are the foundation to our industry. I look forward to his contributions and partnership over the years” stated Armando Parra, Brand & Solutions Ambassador, at Magnadyne Corp.

Visit magnadyne.com for more.

Massive Hires Vice President of Sales & Marketing / MAP Enforcement

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COMMERCE, CA (02.25.22) – Massive Audio is pleased to announce the addition of Hernando (JR) Mares as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. With over thirty years of experience in ODM/OEM and branded sales at ACTC/ Hollywood Sound Labs, SJA/Atomic, US AMPS/ RE audio and Deccon/H&N Brothers, JR Mares is an ideal candidate to improve Massive Audio’s positioning to meet increasing demand. He will be instrumental in leading Massive Audio’s development activities, and marketing while ensuring distributors, representatives and retailers have access to actionable new insights.

JR Mares in the well-stocked Massive Audio warehouse in Commerce, CA.

“I am thrilled to be part of the ‘Massive Audio Revolution’, lead business efforts and extend the team to better serve our representatives, distributors, and customers.” I had previously served customers and competed against Massive Audio for many years. I noticed the product do very well in the competition lanes. Their designs had noteworthy features, although like many OEM/ODM companies, they were focused on manufacturing instead of marketing and lacked emphasize on product intricacies or properly explaining innovative characteristics. After having heard many good things about the products, people and that the company was embracing change, I was delighted to join the team.

Corey Hyler shows a selection of new Massive Audio products.

Massive Audio has many new and exciting changes happening starting in March. Serial number tracking, new call to action ads, and the hiring of Map Cops to better control and enforce pricing on the web which will ensure our brick-and-mortar customers are profitable with the Massive Audio line. We will also launch Free giveaway programs each month to increase brand awareness and allow us to gather and send leads to our retailers. Also, by promoting the additional 9-Month Pro Install warranty and 30-day over the counter exchange that dealers can offer to customers, we will show our dedication to being all-in on driving business to our brick and mortar partners.

“Shipments are arriving regularly; we are almost at capacity so now more than ever is a great time to Get Massive!”

Visit www.massiveaudio.com for more.

GHC Automotive Received an Extra Special Highlight at KnowledgeFest in Vegas

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CORONA, CA (02.25.22) – Greg Delgado and Khody Carter of GCH Automotive recently attended KnowledgeFest 2022 in Las Vegas and were greeted with open arms… LITERALLY!

Greg Delgado (L)-GCH and George Smith, Mobileworks owner,  in an aisle at KFest in Vegas. Smith smiles and holds the $100. he signed for Delgado to Give to Santiago Serrano for doing such a great job at GCH.

“Not only was the show a fantastic experience with a collection of 12 volt specialists focused on knowledge expansion and getting to experience the latest and greatest in technology for cars, but it was a perfect forum to step out into the open with our new line of products core focused on the specialist in mind,” Greg Delgado related.

Santiago Serrano (L) is a happy camper as he receives the $100. that George Smith signed. Greg Delgado, disguised as George Smith, handing over the $100 in the GCH Corona, CA office.

Delgado continued, “As we began the first day, we were greeted immediately by George Smith, Owner of Mobileworks Santa Maria. Mobileworks has been a valued GCH dealer for years. He was elated to see us and proceeded to tell me of his TOP LINE experience with Santiago Serrano, who is head of technical support for GCH and Lead Project Manager. In fact, his satisfaction was so strong that he proceeded to reach into his wallet and pull out a CRISP $100 dollar bill. He then signed it and asked me to make sure Santiago received it as a small token of appreciation for all of the hard work and commitment to his products and serving dealers like George Smith at Mobileworks.”

“It’s really great to do something special for a dedicated employee of a valued vendor partner. GCH is on top of their game and Santiago Serrano goes the extra mile to deliver TOP LINE service” George Smith related outside his Mobileworks location in Santa Maria, CA.

Concluding, Delgado stated, “The above is proof positive that good things happen in our industry all the time and an occasional thank you goes a long way. But when it is topped with a SWEET HUNDO, well that is a very special thanks I’m sure any one of us would like to receive! An extra big Thanks George!!

Visit gchauto.com for more.

GCH Automotive Systems
Corona, CA 92878
951-847-6299

DEI Sponsorship Program Now Accepting Applications

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AVON LAKE, OH (02.24.22) – Be part of a proven winning lineup by applying to the Design Engineering Inc. 2022 Sponsorship Program.

Offering heat and sound control products and support to all corners of the automotive aftermarket, the sponsorship program is looking to partner with quality builders, race teams and exciting vehicles.

“You use the best heat and sound control products in your build or race car, and we let the world know about it,” said Will Farkas, Sponsorship Coordinator for DEI. “Team DEI isn’t just a sponsorship—it is an elite group of the best of the best.”

DEI-sponsored racers and projects over the years have included Street Machine and Hot Rod of the Year honorees, Barrett-Jackson Cup winners, national and international driver and rider champions, and world-renowned builders.

A Team DEI Sponsorship includes:

  • The highest-quality products for improved performance
  • High-profile coverage through DEI’s social media & marketing outlets
  • Elite partnership opportunities, with full product & technical support

In return, sponsored partners will be expected to showcase the performance and quality of DEI products including through a profile on CarBuffNetwork.com, help increase brand awareness and loyalty, and provide high-quality content for the company’s marketing initiatives.

To get started, simply head to the Sponsorship page on the DEI site at designengineering.com/sponsorships/. Click on “Fill out an application,” follow the steps and send it in.

Design Engineering Intros Miata Door Vibration Kit

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AVON LAKE, OH (02.24.22) – Close the door on annoying rattles, squeaks and vibrations in your Mazda Miata with the new Door Vibration Damping Kit (#50296) from Design Engineering, Inc.

Suitable for use on all Miata years and models, the door-specific kits include four 6″x12″ pre-cut Boom Mat® material pieces and two 2″x24″ tape strips for complete coverage.

“This Door Kit reduces noise and vibrations from the metal body, and keeps interiors quiet, with improved interior acoustics,” stated Mike Buca of DEI.

Boom Mat easily forms to bends and curves, and is thin and pliable enough to fit into tight spaces. An easy-to-peel self-adhesive backing makes the attractive black material simple to install.

The new Door Kit joins two other offerings for total Miata coverage. DEI’s 1990-2005 Miata Vibration Damping Kit (#50600) is a nine-piece complete interior solution for the Mazda’s metal floor, firewall, rear bulkhead and rear deck.

The next step is to add ultra-level comfort by installing DEI’s Mazda Miata Pre-Cut Insulation Kit (#50295) that replaces existing padding and insulation with the company’s engineered UC Lite material.

For more information about the new Miata Door Kit, related Miata products, and DEI’s complete line of performance heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.

Real Performance Marketing Team Members Connect During a 4-Day Retreat

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BUFORD, GA (02.23.22) – “Real Performance Marketing had its first in-person retreat and meeting in Chattanooga TN the weekend of January 28th through the 31st. We gathered together our seven team members that live in six different states for the first time. The long weekend included a very productive 3-hour roundtable discussion on a variety of topics and time to get out and explore the vibrant Chattanooga area” firm Principal Scott Hochmuth related.

L to R: Scott Hochmuth, Marta Coplen, Todd Newell, Rebecca McLaurin, Jay McLaurin, John Gray, Jason Upchurch

For the firm’s retreat they secured a large residence to maximize the time and relaxed setting team members had together. Like many companies in the 12volt industry 2021 was a very strong year and the firm registered an increase in sales that topped 40% over the preceding year. “Growth in the Powersports category definitely was a driver in the 2021 sales increase” Hochmuth related.

RPM represents lines like Wetsounds, Arc Audio, Audiofrog, Aunex, MB Quart, MTX, and Carbine – as well as several well-known Powersports lines in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic areas.”

As February draws to a close sales for the first 2 months of 2022 remain strong at Real Performance Marketing.

Visit realperformancemarketing.net for more.

HKI USA Introduces Ground Zero Iridium Line

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DANIA BEACH, FL & EGMATING, GERMANY (02.23.22) – HKI USA is excited to announce a new product to excite car audio dealers to the concept of Pro SQ, while maintaining simple installation and without breaking the bank.

The GZIC 165.2SPL is the newest creation from Ground Zero Car Audio in the Iridium line, that bridges the gap between Pro Audio and Entry Level car audio. This kit allows for a pro style car build with components that are a lot more familiar and traditional. Taking advantage of the new GZCT 25M Competition Line 25mm tweeter, and pairing it with an all new Pro based 6.5” mid bass driver designed around the improved Iridium cone, this kit helps dealers and customers obtain a little more than a standard style kit, without stepping over to the need for custom fabrication with larger pro style componentry.

“This addition to our line up is just another step in helping our car audio retailers be able to offer their clients the complete solution under the Ground Zero brand” says Jacob Brown of HKI USA.

For more information or to become an authorized HKI USA retailer, contact your local sales representative or email HKI USA at info@hki-usa.com

KICKER Marine Audio Renews Sponsorship with Pro Angler Scott Martin

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STILLWATER, OK (02.22.22) – KICKER Marine Audio has announced the renewal of its sponsorship agreement with Professional Angler Scott Martin. Martin earned his spot to fish the Bassmaster Elite tournament circuit beginning in 2021. He also qualified to fish the 2022 Bassmaster Classic in March, based on his success in his first year fishing the Elites. The 2022 season launches in February with an aggressive schedule through August, including stops in Florida, Tennessee, New York, South Carolina, Texas, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

“Scott is on the water over 300 days, competing in tournaments, filming, editing and delivering high-quality freshwater and saltwater TV shows and videos year-round, differentiating him from other fishing pros and TV hosts,” said KICKER’s Brand Manager, Jeremy Bale. “We are very pleased to partner with the #1 influencer in fishing and appreciate the opportunity to enjoy great messaging and product integration through this powerful association.”

Scott Martin’s 42 Freeman, Vice Versa is always ready to fish!

“This is my life,” added Martin, “I’ve been on the water as a young angler on Lake Okeechobee in the 1970s when my dad began his TV show, ‘Fishing with Roland Martin’. This is what I know best, and I’m so pleased to have the caliber of partner in KICKER Marine Audio along for the ride.”

When Roland Martin and his wife Mary Ann bought a small fishing shack marina on Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston, Florida, it was the beginning of Scott’s journey. The Roland Martin Resort, Tiki Bar and guided fishing services grew as did the younger Martin’s career. He followed in his father’s footsteps becoming a professional angler, respected TV personality and a social media influencer in his own right.

The Scott Martin Challenge, began airing in 2005, featuring Martin in challenging adventures with top anglers as well as his family in a multi-faceted, reality-style TV show that brings his 15 million viewers into the experience. The show airs for 52-weeks on a variety of networks and cable channels including Discovery Channel, ESPN2, Sportsman Channel, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network and ATT&T Sports Net SW. Martin’s winning personality is matched only by his fishing prowess, and tremendous success on both the FLW Tour and now, the Bassmaster Elite Tournament trail.

As a hard-core music fan, Martin was introduced to KICKER Marine Audio going back to his high school days, and since then, he cranks up the tunes to fill the time when the fish aren’t biting–or when he out on the boat with friends and family. His KICKER recessed speakers, subwoofers, amps and head unit provide all the entertainment he needs on the water or at the dock

“There is no shortage of KICKER speakers on this boat,” chuckled Martin, who enjoys his 42’ Freeman catamaran for offshore fishing, island hopping and for fishing charters. Named “Vice Versa,’ the boat reflects his love of both fresh and saltwater fishing; his Skeeter Bass Boat is top pick for tournament competition.

The Scott Martin Challenge TV schedule is available at www.ScottMartinChallenge.com, while the Bassmaster Elite Tour Schedule is available at www.Bassmaster.com.