Industry

Diversity of Light-Truck Market Primes Automotive Aftermarket for Future Growth

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.18.2021) – Following SEMA’s recent market research on the changing vehicle landscape, SEMA released a research report dedicated solely to the light-truck market. The 99-page study includes in-depth sales information for pickups, SUVs, CUVs, and vans, as well as aftermarket parts for these vehicles.

The new Light-Truck Market Snapshot from SEMA Market Research shows that in 2020 more than 90% of U.S. Ford, GM, and Stellantis (formerly FCA) vehicles sold were light trucks. Pickups remain a large part of the specialty automotive aftermarket and accounted for more than 30% of specialty-equipment part sales in 2019.

SEMA’s new Light-Truck Market Snapshot report includes in-depth sales information for pickups, SUVs, CUVs, and vans, as well as aftermarket parts for these vehicles.

CUVs have not been fully embraced by specialty-equipment consumers and businesses but remain a big part of the overall light-truck market. They have become the fastest-selling vehicle segment in the United States, and also a very fragmented one with more than 170 CUV models projected to be sold from 2021-2028.

The report helps businesses understand the overall truck market and includes a snapshot of trends for the light-truck, off-road, overland, outdoor recreation, powertrain, and technology segments.

“Light trucks are used for a wide variety of activities and continue to be shaped by trends in vehicle sales, technology, and consumer behavior,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “We anticipate this growth to continue over the next decade as vehicle manufacturers prioritize their light-truck models.”

Trends in powertrains and vehicle technology are also shaping the light-truck market:

  • Engines are getting smaller overall: 52% of pre-1990 light trucks have a 5L or larger engine, compared with 22% of 2010 and newer trucks
  • Forced induction is becoming more common, especially on smaller engines. Less than 1% of pre-1990 light trucks have a turbocharger or supercharger, but 22% of 2010 and newer trucks come with some sort of forced induction
  • Alternative fuels like hybrid or electric powertrains have been slower to catch on with trucks than with cars, but they are coming — several electric trucks have been announced in recent years, including an all-electric Jeep Wrangler and several electric pickups
  • New-vehicle technologies like ADAS are also becoming more common and may affect how specialty truck parts are designed, produced, and installed

To learn more about the evolving diversity of the light-truck market and find insights that can help your business succeed, download the SEMA Light-Truck Market Snapshot for free today at www.sema.org/research

The 12Volt Central Studios Works to Deliver Positive Industry News Everyday

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SHREVEPORT, LA (05.18.2021) – No doubt we are all living in an increasingly stressful world. COVID Shot or No COVID shot. Mask or No Mask. Polarized National media fueling stress. Shortages in supermarkets with rising prices. Pipeline interruption from cyber attack further driving fuel increases. The price of lumber up nearly 300%. We all know the story in our ’Screen Focused’ World.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CO_n4G2HLnQ/

The 12volt industry has unique issues driving up the the stress level. Product shortages due to high demand. Product shortages taken to the next level due to chip plant fires and shortages. The cost of shipping product has gone through the roof. Travel or can’t travel. Need installers. Companies need employees but many people are receiving stimulus payments equal or exceeding a normal salary.

The 12volt Central Studios staff works each day to deliver positive industry news. See 12voltnews.com plus @12voltnews on Instagram and Facebook. Each business day morning, we post News Today which delivers fresh industry news in less than a minute. The 12voltBeat newsletter is emailed early Monday and Thursday mornings to over 5,000 industry members. On Saturdays, we post HiLites from the Week on social media. On Sundays we wish friends having Birthdays in the coming week Happy Birthday.

Click to subscribe to our FREE e-Newsletter!

The 12voltSTP Tool can be utilized by industry members to send a company’s activities and product information to the 12volt Central Studios. With a smartphone snap and txt an image, with a few words, to 318 465 0844. PRESTO your company could be in the news.

In addition, we make additional posts with companies working to get their ‘Shine On’. Check out the short video presentation above featuring SSV Works at The Rally on the Rocks in Moab UT May 12-15.

As an industry-vendors, reps, distributors and retailers- let’s all work to highlight positives.

Let’s remember the world is about people. ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On!’

Tint World Announces Madison Belfour as New Digital Marketing Analyst

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BOCA RATON, FL (06.17.2021) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers recently hired Madison Belfour as the new digital marketing analyst for the franchise.

A recent graduate of the University of Florida, Belfour holds degrees in both business administration and journalism. She is responsible for creating marketing campaigns that benefit both the franchise owners individually, as well as overall growth of the franchise.

Belfour’s keen attention to detail and passion for marketing is essential for continually optimizing campaign performance while helping to generate greater overall revenue for the franchise’s 80-plus locations currently open.

Madison Belfour, Digital Marketing Analyst

“Madison is a wonderful addition to our corporate team,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO and president of Tint World. “We strive to have the best people in place. Her experience will help our franchisees grow their businesses, while supporting the continued success and growth of our overall franchise.”

Belfour spent the first three years of her career working for local marketing agencies in the South Florida area. Following a series of conversations with Bonfiglio, Madison picked up on his immense passion for franchising and was immediately motivated to put her skills to work for the growing franchise.

Belfour said one of her favorite parts of working at Tint World has been the seamless transition. One of the first projects Belfour took on was the Tint World 2021 International Franchise Convention. Unlike any prior annual convention, the event was held virtually due to the pandemic – presenting its own unique adaptations. Proactive and detail-oriented, Belfour saw the opportunity to step in and contribute value to help make the event a success.

As time has gone on, Belfour has continued sharpening her relationships with franchise owners – understanding their needs and offering tailored campaign solutions to reach their objectives. With new trends emerging constantly, she stays diligent to help keep Tint World’s fingers on the pulse.

“Since day one, I instantly felt like I was a part of the Tint World family. It feels great to be part of such a passionate team and I look forward to continuing to grow within this growing franchise,” Belfour said.

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers™ offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. 

Visit tintworld.com for more.

New Stereo King Trailer on the Road to Maximize Visibility for the Oregon Retailer

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HAPPY VALLEY, OR (05.14.2021) – Stereo King recently finished a customized 26’ trailer with attention grabbing graphics. The new trailer will be utilized to increase awareness at the retailer’s multiple locations plus consumer events in the area. Stereo King has 4 stores in Oregon plus Dicks Stereo in Boise, ID.

The new Stereo King 26’ trailer drives the brand and the message “Nobody Beats The King.”
Drivers following on the road see the Stereo King brand and area store locations.

“Stereo King is very active in the PowerSports category. We participate in a number of large area enthusiasts events including UTV Takeover and DuneFest. This new trailer will give us a lot of exposure at those events plus a vehicle to transport event tents, supplies and inventory to be sold at the events. In addition, the Portland International Auto Show is an annual event where we set up a large booth. The trailer will be used to transport everything we need to set up our booth in the convention center.”

The new Stereo King Trailer gets driver’s attention from the street… blocks away, too.

Oregon Design created and installed the wrap on the Stereo King trailer project. “Scotty Miles worked with Oregon Design to design the graphics and the project turned out very nicely,” Cornutt added.

Miles related, “Our goal was to create a wrap that was extremely eye catching and tasteful. We made sure the design spotlighted the Stereo King color scheme, while featuring our company’s brand and what we represent, well.”

A company truck is used to tow the trailer to most events. With the Portland International Auto Show a large U-Haul us used to tow the trailer and transport a large amount of inventory.

Visit stereoking.com for more.

New Autotek Off-Road Lights Bring Out More Exploration

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LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.14.2021) – ATO Round LED Lights light up every narrow mountain trail, large sand dune, and everything in between with brightness where you need it the most. With 3 sizes to choose from: including a 9-inch, 7-inch, and 5-inch light size, all of these features off-road durability and include a black cast aluminum alloy body.

Delivering HUGE lumen brightness, ranging from 3,600 (each 5-inch round LED light) to 8,000 (each 9-inch round LED light), you’ll be able to take in any corner and peak of darkness when the sun goes down on every journey.

The ATO9RV1 is a pair of 9-inch round cast aluminum alloy LED lights, outdoor-rated at 16,000 lumens. With an IPX67 marine-grade protection/IPX rating, this universal off-road pair of 9-inch round LED lights brings 180 watts (90 watts each driving light) of HUGE lumen brightness power.

Learn more about the ATO9RV1 Round LED Lights here.

Features & benefits across the entire lineup of ATO Round LED Lights:

  • COMPATIBLE VEHICLE FITMENT
  • Universal vehicle fitment
  • MARINE-GRADE PROTECTION / IPX RATING
  • IPX67
  • INSTALLATION
  • Includes DIY wiring and mounting hardware

Take on the adventure wherever it calls and embark with brighter lumens to display every journey ahead with ultimate exploration.

Visit autotekcaraudio.com for more.

Pioneer Expands Marine Amplifier Lineup

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LOS ANGELES, CA – (05.13.2021) – Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. has introduced three Class-D amplifiers designed for the challenging marine environment. Consisting of two compact sized and fully ingress protected (IP67 rated) models plus an extremely flexible bridgeable 6-channel model, these new Pioneer amplifiers are designed to suit multiple output configurations in a variety of environmental conditions and marine applications. 

All three models feature an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) design, utilizing a microprocessor to enable and control the amplifier’s audio, power and protection circuits. By harnessing the power of the MCU and a 32-Bit floating point DSP that modulates the input signal prior to the gain stage, combined with an audio optimized PCB layout and specialized audio grade components, sound quality and signal accuracy are improved over conventional Class-D subwoofer and full-range amplifier designs.

The MCU also enables Pioneer’s Protection Control System (PCS), which continuously monitors the input voltage, current consumption, and operating temperature to automatically adjust the amplifier’s output to ensure operational stability during long listening sessions or in warmer climates. The entire lineup is also SAE J1171 Certified for external ignition protection of marine electrical devices, making them suitable for installation in the storage, electrical or battery compartments of marine vessels. 

“We are excited to expand our lineup of amplifiers with three models that have been engineered to withstand the extremes of temperature, moisture and dust exposure found in common marine applications while still offering the installation flexibility and high sound quality consumers expect from Pioneer,” said Ted Cardenas, vice president of marketing and corporate communications for Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “Additionally, the IP67 rated ingress protection, compact size, and low current consumption of the GM-ME300X1C and GM-ME300X4C make these specific amplifiers an excellent option for installation in a variety of other vehicles, including off-road vehicles, power sports vehicles and motorcycles.” 

The Pioneer marine amplifier lineup includes: 

  • GM-ME300X1C (suggested price: $370): The mono-channel GM-ME300X1C subwoofer amplifier is weatherproof and IP67 rated for dust and water resistance, capable even of full water submersion1. Adjustments to the built-in low pass filter (featuring a precise 21-step frequency range), 0dB/ 6dB/ 12dB adjustable bass boost, gain and input settings are located under the sealed top mounted and removable cover. The GM-ME300X1C output is controlled by the MCU and is capable of 300W RMS x1 at both 2 ohms and 4 ohms. 
  • GM-ME300X4C (suggested price: $370): The 4-channel GM-ME300X4C full-range amplifier is weatherproof and IP67 rated for dust and water resistance, capable even of full water submersion1. Adjustments to the built-in high pass and low pass filters (featuring a precise 21-step frequency range), bridged output settings, gain and input settings are located under the sealed top mounted and removable cover. The GM-ME300X4C output is controlled by the MCU and is capable of 75W RMS x4 at both 2 ohms and 4 ohms in 4-channel mode; 75W RMS x2 at both 2 ohms and 4 ohms plus 150W RMS x1 at 4 ohms in 3-channel stereo/bridged mode; or 150W RMS x2 at 4 ohms in 2-channel bridged mode. 
  • GM-ME600X6 (suggested price: $650): Featuring a corrosion-resistant conformal coated circuit board and single sided ABYC/NMMA compliant terminal connections, the 6-channel GM-ME600X6 full-range amplifier offers a vast array of power output and channel combinations to provide unmatched system flexibility within the Pioneer marine amplifier line-up. The MCU design features built-in high pass and low pass filters (featuring a precise 21-step frequency range), bridged output settings, gain and input selection settings for each of the three pairs of channels (six total channels). Further harnessing the full capabilities of the MCU design, it features both normal output mode (75W RMS x2 stereo at both 2 ohms and 4 ohms / 150W RMS x1 bridged at 4 ohms) or high output mode (100W RMS x2 stereo at both 2 ohms and 4 ohms / 200W RMS x1 bridged at 4 ohms) for each pair of channels, allowing the amplifier’s power output to be more closely matched with the power handling capabilities of connected speakers (sold separately). The amplifier can be configured in the following output modes: 6-channel (all channels operating in stereo mode); 5-channel (4 channels in stereo mode plus 1 bridged mode channel); 4-channel (2 channels in stereo mode plus 2 bridged mode channels); or 3-channel (3 bridged mode channels). 

The new Pioneer Electronics marine amplifiers are available now and you can find more information at pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/Marine/Amplifiers. 

SSV Works Exhibiting at the 2021 Rally on the Rocks

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MOAB, UT (05.13.2021) – SSV Works is exhibiting at the 2021 Discount Tire Rally on the Rocks from May 12-15 in San Juan County, UT. “It only makes sense, that as a market leader in off-road audio systems and accessories, that we exhibit at one of the biggest events of the year. It’s been quite a year for all of us and so many have taken to the outdoors in record numbers.” Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO, stated.

The SSV Works CanAm Maverick X3 Max on a run down the Behind the Rocks Trail at Rally on the Rocks in Moab Utah.

Continuing, Kaplan offered “SSV Works offers the industry’s only weatherproof Polaris RZR Pro XP full aftermarket audio solution. The 2021 Rally on the Rocks is an ideal occasion to showcase our new and exciting audio kits to thousands of side-by-side enthusiasts.”

Rally on the Rocks is the perfect setting to showcase the latest SSV Works products to thousands of side-by-side enthusiasts.

SSV Works is also participating as a sponsor for the Rally on the Rocks Taco Dinner Night this year. “We feel we need to show our appreciation to the Powersports community for staying strong through the tough times we all have been experiencing,” Kaplan continued. “This is our way to give back to say ‘Thank you’ and offer some amazing audio prize packs for the nights’ raffle. It’s going to be a blast seeing all of our friends after so long!”

Last year SSV Works announced a collaboration with JVC in which SSV Works is now the exclusive Powersports distributor for the KD-MR1BTS marine / powersports digital media receiver. “That success has led us to add this incredible receiver to our XP1000 kits. Our customers asked for an easy plug-and-play upgrade, we listened, and now we have it and all can experience it at The Rally of the Rocks,” Kaplan concluded.

For more information, visit www.SSVWorks.com.

Metra Electronics Shipping New TurboTouch Dash Kit for 2016-2021 Honda Civics

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HOLLY HILL, FL (05.12.2021) – Metra Electronicsis now shipping a new dash kit for 2016-2021 Honda Civic models (excluding the LX). The new 99-7821B TurboTouch dash kit has a built-in 4.3-inch touchscreen and integrated electronics to retain most of the features normally lost when replacing the factory radio. The color touchscreen and hard buttons are located below the head unit and the screen shows climate and personalization settings, adding a high-tech look and feel to the dashboard. The backlit hard buttons can be customized with 250 different color options.

Metra’s newest dash kit fits either a Single-DIN or Double-DIN radio provision and makes stereo installation easier for Honda Civic upgrades. It comes with several of the items installers need to help retain safety and convenience features and is Micro “B” USB updatable. The included wiring harness and interface allow the OE Honda LaneWatch camera to keep working, ensures that the factory backup camera will work on the new screen, and retains the use of the audio control buttons on the steering wheel.

An antenna adapter is also included to allow AM/FM radio stations to work on the aftermarket radio. If the vehicle has a factory amplifier that needs to be retained, the Axxess AXSP-HN, sold separately, should be purchased. (To know whether or not this applies to the vehicle, installers can check to see if it has the factory subwoofer or center channel speakers.) The 99-7821B dash kit is painted scratch-resistant matte black to match the original look and feel of the vehicle’s dashboard and is in stock now.

A video with installation tips that also shows the touchscreen functionality can be seen above or at this link: https://youtu.be/hXlybf4OASE.

Visit MetraOnline.com for additional details and technical information.

Design Engineering Boom Mat Tape Adds Finishing Touch

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AVON LAKE, OH (05.12.2021) – Add a finishing touch to any noise-blocking or sound-damping project with versatile Boom Mat Tape from Design Engineering, Inc.

Offering the same qualities as DEI’s Boom Mat damping material, multipurpose Boom Mat Tape helps reduce vehicle road-noise, sound system vibrations, rattles, dashboard plastic-to-plastic chafing and more. Use it to cover seams, fix leaks and to secure and protect cables, wires and lines.

# 50215

“Boom Mat tape is for those hard-to-reach areas, as well as for covering wire and cable harnesses running on or along the sides of floorboards,” stated Mike Buca of DEI. “Cover seams and gaps on doors, floor pans, deck lids and trunk areas, to name just a few, or stick it anywhere spot coverage for vibration is needed.”

In fact, possibilities extend far beyond just vehicles, with plenty of in-home applications, such as applying Boom Mat Tape to the bottom of metal sinks to eliminate ringing, or on sump pump pipes to keep them from vibrating.

# 50449

Simple to use, Boom Mat Tape requires no special tools for installation. The easy-to-cut material comfortably conforms to a variety of shapes and adheres to any metal, aluminum, fiberglass or plastic material, as well as many types of foam padding and fabrics.

Made from 2.5mm-thick butyl rubber with aluminum facing, Boom Mat Tape is offered in 2″-wide-by-20-foot black rolls (# 50215) as well as 1.5”-wide-by-20-foot silver rolls (# 50449). Simple peel-and-stick application is aided by an easy-to-remove clear release liner.

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

SSV Works Announces 2020 Kawasaki Teryx KRX1000 Kick Panel Speaker Pods

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OXNARD, CA (05.11.2021) – SSV Works has launched the industry first 6.5-inch Kick Panel Speaker Pods (p/n KX-F65A) for the 2020+ Kawasaki Teryx KRX1000. The pods are now shipping (MSRP: $329.99) and include an SSV Works powersports A6 speaker.

“Utilizing 3D modeling and design, SSV Works was able to design a proper enclosure for a kick panel speaker, offering a better solution than the open backed factory door speakers.” explained Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Being completely open in the back, the factory door pods are not fully sealed, leaving them exposed to the elements and reducing sound quality. Our fully sealed, UV stable, all-weather durable kick panel pods provide better sound quality and ensure that you never have to worry about where you ride.”

The KX-F65A includes all necessary mounting hardware and an SSV Works 4ohm, 60/120W (RMS/Peak) powersports marine speaker with 25mm Titanium hard dome tweeter, Santoprene surround, UV Stable ASA plastic grille, and 2-pin posi-lock connectors.

The KX-F65 also has an unloaded option so that you can incorporate your own 6.5-inch speakers for a custom install.

For more information, visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.