LIBERTYVILLE, IL (09.02.26) – Polaris RANGER Tuned Systems are engineered to deliver bold, BIG,precise sound that stands up to the toughest trail conditions wherever the outdoors lead to. Whether you are hitting dunes, ripping through woods, or just enjoying the ride, these tuned systems bring your music to life, designed for cleaner sound in every beat and a LOUDER punch in audio. HEAR MORE on any adventure!

MB Quart RANGER Tuned systems are designed to fit and perform in the RANGER’s rugged environment. From IP-rated speakers and amps to vehicle-specific mounting hardware — feel crisp highs to deeper bass for a dynamic audio listening experience.

Plug-and-Play wiring harnesses and custom mounting panels make installation straightforward for DIY enthusiasts. Enjoy POWERFUL STAGE 2 RIDE COMMAND integration and deep-thumping subwoofer and additional speaker options — these kits
deliver premium audio built for the trail.

To learn more, click here.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.02.26) – Leno’s Law (Senate Bill 1392), an important touchpoint in the fight to preserve California’s rich automotive heritage, has passed the California Legislature with a historic, bipartisan 49-4 vote. The bill, sponsored by noted car enthusiast and namesake Jay Leno and the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom for consideration.

• Leno’s Law seeks to provide a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to smog check exemptions for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. The exemption would be phased in over several years and would apply only to vehicles that meet specific collector-use requirements.

Leno’s Law is authored by Sen. Dave Cortese, with Sen. Shannon Grove as a principal coauthor. Its passage through both chambers of the California Legislature represents the most significant progress in over 20 years to deliver collector-vehicle smog check reform on behalf of California’s car enthusiasts, automotive restorers, and anyone for whom a vehicle has represented a cultural or family touchstone. Importantly, support for Leno’s Law has transcended party lines, uniting Democrats and Republicans, lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses, and enthusiasts.

“This bipartisan victory is a product of California’s automotive community uniting to remind the state’s lawmakers of the cultural significance of our cars and trucks, and of our sacred charge to pass this shared heritage on to the next generation,” said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. “We are grateful for Senators Cortese and Grove for their stewardship of this bill, and to Jay Leno for lending his name and passion on behalf of every car enthusiast and small business with a personal stake in preserving our automotive heritage. SEMA and California’s automotive community have one more request, and we respectfully ask Governor Newsom to finish the job and sign Leno’s Law.”

“California can protect clean air without erasing our automotive history. A classic car that spends most of its life in a garage and comes out for a parade, car show, or charity event is not the same as a daily commuter, and our laws should recognize that,” said Sen. Cortese. “SB 1392 brings common sense back to the smog-check system, protects a treasured part of California culture, and gives classic car owners a fair shot at preserving these pieces of history. We’ve cleared the Legislature. Now it’s time to put ‘Leno’s Law’ on the Governor’s desk and get it signed.”

“For generations of California families, classic cars have brought grandfathers, fathers, sons, and daughters together, from the shade-tree mechanic working side by side with their grandchild, to the enthusiast who gets behind the wheel and is instantly taken back to their glory days,” said Sen. Grove. “After years of working to find a solution that protects California’s classic car culture while addressing the state’s requirements, Leno’s Law gets us there. It is a focused, commonsense bill that keeps true collector vehicles in California, supports the small businesses that restore and celebrate them, and removes a burdensome requirement so enthusiasts can get back to what they do best, restoring and enjoying these pieces of California history. I am proud to stand with Sen. Cortese, Jay Leno, SEMA, and collectors across the state as we take this effort to the finish line.”

BACKGROUND
Leno’s Law establishes a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to a smog-check exemption for certain older vehicles. Under the bill, beginning Jan. 1, 2028, qualifying collector vehicles (those manufactured before model year 1981) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. This exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model year 1986. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill’s collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or be able to verify the vehicle is driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The bill does not change California’s existing exemption for pre-1976 vehicles.

The effort to secure passage of this bill won support from all corners of California’s automotive culture and reached enthusiasts and preservationists from other countries. California’s lowrider community sent over 1,700 letters in support of the legislation, while the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile’s (FIA) International Historical Commission backed the bill, highlighting its balanced approach to automotive preservation and California’s environmental objectives.

California remains a globally recognized cultural epicenter for America’s automotive heritage, immediately identifiable through decades of images of classic cars and trucks traversing on California’s roads and highways, from the desert to the coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and the state’s automotive aftermarket industry supports nearly 150,000 jobs, annually generates more than $40 billion in economic impact, and delivers $13 billion in wages and benefits while contributing $6 billion in taxes.

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

FAIRFIELD, NJ (09.01.26) – TOPDON USA announced that the ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag now include free lifetime software updates. Effective August 18, 2026, current and future owners of these tools can keep their diagnostic software up to date without paying additional update fees.

“Our team believes in developing the most capable diagnostic technology while creating a quality product ownership experience,” said Chad Schnitz, vice president at TOPDON USA. “That’s why we’re providing free lifetime software updates on four of our most popular diagnostic tools. This upgrade will make it easier for customers to keep their tools current, capable, and ready to tackle their evolving repair needs without having to worry about additional update fees. It’s another way we’re helping customers get more value from their TOPDON tools.”

Previously, the ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag included two years of free software updates. Under the new policy, current and future owners will receive software updates for the supported life of their tools at no additional cost.

• ArtiDiag700: Supports full-system diagnostics for more than 70 vehicle brands, CAN FD protocols, and FCA, Nissan AutoAuth, and VAG SFD security gateway access. AutoVIN, live data, and 15 service functions support routine maintenance and advanced repairs.
• ArtiDiag800 BT 2: Offers full-system diagnostics, bidirectional control, and 28 service functions, including oil resets and window calibration. Bluetooth connectivity enables convenient wireless vehicle communication.
• ArtiDiag900 Lite: Empowers technicians to overcome the limitations of wired systems, providing unmatched flexibility and convenience. Supports 8 maintenance services and full system diagnostics across 60+ brands.
• UltraDiag: Capable of performing full OBD2 capabilities, accessing 30 commonly used maintenance services, and supporting full-system diagnostics for 100+ car brands; it includes the Repair Data Library to quickly locate faulty parts.

The ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag are available through TOPDON’s national distribution network.

Current ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag owners can update their software by connecting to Wi-Fi and downloading the most recent software update from the home screen. New units will include lifetime software update access automatically.

For more information, visit www.topdon.us.

HAMILTON, OH (08.31.26) – Dynamat hosted a very successful 2026 ECA Finals at the company’s world HQ in Hamilton OH on August 22nd and 23rd. Competitors started rolling in early on Saturday as the judging started at 9 AM on both Saturday and Sunday with the awards on Sunday at noon.

For ECA Cassie Hall related “We were so honored to have Scott Monnin and the Dynamat Team to provide the amazing venue for our 2026 Finals which included East Coast Audiophiles EMMA USA and MASQ.”

Judges at the Finals ECA 4X included Mike Myers, Richard Papasin, Fred Lynch and Cassie Hall. EMMA 2X was judged by
Klifton Keplinger. MASQ wad Judged by Joseph Davis.

There were 25 competitors on site and all ran very smoothly both days under a sunny sky. Dynamat provided goodie bags
for competitors and there was a taco lunch in the Dynamat warehouse with Scott Monnin’s daughters hosting guests.

Mike Myers, ECA 4X Judge, runs the very successful The Sound Factory location with his brother Chris in Knoxville TN.
“Everything came together for the ECA Finals at Dynamat’s HQ. It was so terrific to get together with the competitors. We
have events and competitions at our store to connect and engage with enthusiast. Overall that kind of activity is very
important for the industry. Having Dynamat, manufacturer of a vital sound quality element, host the ECA Finals was very
special. We thank Scott and his Team very, very much.”

“We believe the 2026 ECA Finals was a complete success. Dynamat’s HQ location and Team contributed greatly to that
success and we are looking forward to being at the Dynamat HQ again” Cassie Hall stated.

For more see dynamat.com.

ZEELAND, MI (08.31.26) – The new RS-282 brings enhanced functionality and installation flexibility to the EXCALIBUR remote start lineup.

Key Features:

• Up to 1/4-mile range
• NEW antenna port support for LINKR-MBT smartphone programming and control
• Easily upgrade to 2-way functionality with compatible EXCALIBUR RK kits
• High and low temperature auto start
• Low vehicle battery auto start
• Enhanced vehicle learn technology
• Programmable inputs and outputs
• Alarm-ready with onboard sensor and door trigger inputs
• Compatible with all OL-RS-HRN T-harnesses
• Supports LINKR-LT3 for 4G LTE control and tracking

Adding a compatible sensor can also upgrade the system to full security functionality.

Download the sell sheet.

The RK-281 provides an easy way to add long-range remote start control to compatible systems.

Key Features:

• Up to 1/4-mile range
• NEW high-speed, function-enhanced RF protocol
• Main harness included for EXCALIBUR 80 Series systems
• Adapter/power injection harness included for compatible data start systems
• Compatible with a wide range of popular data start systems

When paired with an EXCALIBUR 80 Series Analog Remote Start, the RK-281 also supports extended functions including Remote Valet, high/low temperature auto start activation, feature programming, Lock Without Arm, and more.

Download the sell sheet.

FAIRFIELD, NJ (08.28.26) – TOPDON USA announced that the ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag now include free lifetime software updates. Effective August 18, 2026, current and future owners of these tools can keep their diagnostic software up to date without paying additional update fees.

“Our team believes in developing the most capable diagnostic technology while creating a quality product ownership experience,” said Chad Schnitz, vice president at TOPDON USA. “That’s why we’re providing free lifetime software updates on four of our most popular diagnostic tools. This upgrade will make it easier for customers to keep their tools current, capable, and ready to tackle their evolving repair needs without having to worry about additional update fees. It’s another way we’re helping customers get more value from their TOPDON tools.”

Previously, the ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag included two years of free software updates. Under the new policy, current and future owners will receive software updates for the supported life of their tools at no additional cost.

• ArtiDiag700: Supports full-system diagnostics for more than 70 vehicle brands, CAN FD protocols, and FCA, Nissan AutoAuth, and VAG SFD security gateway access. AutoVIN, live data, and 15 service functions support routine maintenance and advanced repairs.
• ArtiDiag800 BT 2: Offers full-system diagnostics, bidirectional control, and 28 service functions, including oil resets and window calibration. Bluetooth connectivity enables convenient wireless vehicle communication.
• ArtiDiag900 Lite: Empowers technicians to overcome the limitations of wired systems, providing unmatched flexibility and convenience. Supports 8 maintenance services and full system diagnostics across 60+ brands.
• UltraDiag: Capable of performing full OBD2 capabilities, accessing 30 commonly used maintenance services, and supporting full-system diagnostics for 100+ car brands; it includes the Repair Data Library to quickly locate faulty parts.

The ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag are available through TOPDON’s national distribution network.

Current ArtiDiag700, ArtiDiag800 BT 2, ArtiDiag900 Lite, and UltraDiag owners can update their software by connecting to Wi-Fi and downloading the most recent software update from the home screen. New units will include lifetime software update access automatically.

For more information, visit www.topdon.us.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.28.26) – CS Series speakers are engineered to make your music hit harder and sound better by bringing vocals, instruments, and bass to life through impressive clarity and audio balance. From crisp highs to powerful lows in every beat, your songs get the depth, definition, and dynamic performance they deserve — at any volume.

Featuring Neo-Mylar soft dome tweeters, the CS Series brings out crisp, detailed highs while a precision-tuned passive crossover keeps everything smooth and controlled. The result is a clean midrange response, tighter midbass beats, and a LOUD listening experience that elevates your audio system.

To learn more, click here.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.27.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show is building momentum across key categories, including collision repair and vehicle restyling. For repair and refinishing professionals, this year’s Show will deliver a comprehensive look at the latest products, equipment, and technologies shaping the industry.

The SEMA Show’s dedicated Restyling and Collision Repair & Refinish sections will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, giving shop owners, technicians, and builders access to solutions designed to improve efficiency, quality, and turnaround times. From advanced repair equipment to refinishing components, attendees will find a full spectrum of products designed to meet the evolving needs of modern repair and car care facilities.

The recently released SEMA Market Report estimates the repair and refinishing-related aftermarket represents roughly $9 billion in annual consumer spending, driven by demand for body upgrades, appearance products, paint and refinishing materials, wraps, window tint, and lighting products. The report underscores the strength of these categories within the broader automotive aftermarket and highlights their importance to repair, refinishing, and customization businesses.

Within that broader market, exterior restyling remains a major growth area, exceeding $6 billion in annual consumer spending, reflecting sustained consumer demand for vehicle personalization through products such as grilles, body upgrades, wraps, graphics, lighting, running boards, exterior trim, and other appearance enhancements.

The Restyling and Collision Repair & Refinish sections are anchored by long-standing industry brands, including 3M, Avery Dennison, Katzkin Automotive Leather, Pro Spot, Rust-Oleum, SATA, Snap-on, Sonax Premium Car Care, and XPEL. Their continued participation highlights both the heritage and innovation that drive this critical segment of the aftermarket.

“The collision repair and restyling segments are essential to keeping vehicles safe, functional, and looking their best,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “From cutting-edge repair technologies to craftsmanship-driven restyling and car-care products, these sections demonstrate how the industry continues to evolve. Long-standing leaders and new innovators alike reinforce the strength, expertise, and forward momentum of this category.”

Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have surpassed 1 million net square feet, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the country, reflecting sustained growth and investment across the automotive aftermarket.

In addition to collision repair and restyling, the 2026 SEMA Show will feature strong participation across performance, trucks, powersports, mobile electronics, tools, and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Stellantis, will also return, strengthening the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket solutions.

Attendees can also explore signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders, and FutureTech Studio, offering valuable insights into the trends, skills, and technologies shaping the future of vehicle repair and car care.

The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas as part of the broader “SEMA Week” experience, which includes public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest.

For more information or to register, visit www.semashow.com.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (08.27.26) – ALL-NEW Hifonics x Kawasaki NAV® 4e LIMITED audio systems deliver an upgraded, fully integrated sound that hits HARD, plays CLEAN, and KEEPS UP with every task — innovated by POWER FROM THE GODS.

Featuring a 7-inch waterproof touchscreen source unit, four 6.5-inch waterproof 2-way speakers, and a 320-watt Class-D amplifier, the Kawasaki NAV® 4e LIMITED OEM Hifonics Audio System cuts through every outdoor environment with a clean and immersive soundstage that brings out more detail from your audio.

Add the dedicated Hifonics Subwoofer Kit for deeper, low-impact bass that includes an 8-inch subwoofer and subwoofer enclosure with a200-watt Class-D amplifier, and feel BIGGER BASS on any terrain.

For more information, click here.

STILLWATER, OK (08.26.26) – KICKER/Stillwater Designs looked internally to name its newest National Sales Director, and company veteran Matt Matheson will now fill that role for the mobile-audio manufacturer.  Matheson has worked as KICKER’s Northeast Regional Sales Manager for the past 11 years and will continue to serve in that role while taking on his newest duties.

“Matt has done an outstanding job shaping (the Northeast) region into a top performer for the KICKER brand,” said Tom Heath, KICKER Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing.  “He’ll do a great job in this new position of leadership.”

“This is a good move for the brand,” said Steve Irby, KICKER President.  “Matt has always impressed during his 19 years here, and his dedication and energy will continue to inspire colleagues who appreciate his skills and hard work.”

Matheson began his 12-volt career as a diligent 16-year-old, working nights after school and weekends as an installer.  He eventually worked his way into retail sales and management leading to the 2008 hiring at KICKER in OEM product design and development.  He held that position until 2015 when he was promoted to Regional Sales.

“Matt has always prided himself in taking care of all customers, including the people with which he works,” Heath continued.  “His sales reps, dealers and distributors can attest to his commitment and attention to detail.”

Visit kicker.com for more.