LAS VEGAS, NV (08.03.2021) – The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance Select Committee participated in the recent SEMA Leadership Meetings in Las Vegas. SEMA Board of Directors and Councils and SEMA staff discussed the critical initiatives the SEMA Board is focused on for our industry. SEMA will be publishing these initiatives in the very near future.
Now the SEMA HRIA select committee is heading to Louisville this week for the NSRA Street Rod Nationals hosting education days for the Hot Rod industry.
Left to Right – Kris Bluntzer-Empire Garage, Joe Kubiak-Wilwood, Tim McCarthy-Chair Elect HUSHMAT/ZyCoat, Danny Agosta-Chair Steele Rubber, Jeff Major- IPC Bed Wood, David Page-Edelbrock Group, Amy Fitzgerald-Cool Hand Customs.
GOODLETTSVILLE, TN (08.02.2021) – “With rumors flying, I’d like to announce the sale of MECA, Inc to the Ballinger family, Bud, Shannon, and Salena, from Louisville, KY. We have a buy-out agreement in place that will take effect November 1, 2021. This includes the entire properties of MECA, Inc., including Sound Quality League, Sound Pressure League, Show & Shine, Ride the Light, MECA Kids, and all intellectual properties, i.e. trademarks, logos, Rule Books, etc.”
“I will complete the 2021 season and carry out all my responsibilities throughout both SPL and SQL Finals, and then turn over the business to the Ballingers.”
Salena, Bud and Shannon Ballinger (L to R) pictured at a previous MECA event.
“The excitement and vitality they will bring to our MECA club, contests and trade association will be important assets for our events and our industry. They have competed and judged as a family for many years, with State Championships and World Championships to their credit. Knowing the ropes as competitors, judges, and event directors gives them a unique and experienced insight into what MECA does and what MECA can do, with their vision and guidance.”
“For 23 years, since 1999, MECA has endeavored to be a family friendly, fun, and worthwhile organization for our varied members and the mobile electronics industry. Bud, Shannon, and Salena know the mission statements and goals MECA stands for and are dedicated to keeping the spirit and purposes of MECA strong, relevant and consistent with our founding principles.”
MECA Commish Steve Stern in the MECA office.
“I’d like to thank those who have supported my efforts to develop and maintain a meaningful organization. There are so many people who have contributed through-out the years and made MECA a viable business and organization. My appreciation and respect for these MECA friends are boundless. We have shared many memorable moments together, in the lanes and in our lives. MECA is about people, music, the gear and our vehicles. That’s not going to change.”
“Please welcome and support the Ballingers as they take on the responsibilites of MECA for you and the organization. We are very fortunate that they have embraced the excellence and longivity of our club and contests.”
More info and details to be announced as they unfold. Hope to see you at either the SPL or SQL Finals.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.02.2021) – SEMA has announced the hiring of Benjamin Kaminsky as the new Detroit operations manager. Earlier this year, SEMA announced the purchase of a 45,000-sq.-ft. building in Detroit to be used as a second SEMA Garage. Kaminsky will be responsible for the overall management of SEMA Garage Detroit services and facilities to assist members with new product development and integration.
“Benjamin Kaminsky will be a great addition to our SEMA Garage team,” said Mike Spagnola, vice president of OEM & product development programs. “He comes to SEMA with over 20 years of experience in the automotive and automotive aftermarket industry as an engineering and project manager having worked at both automakers and tier-one suppliers.”
Benjamin Kaminsky
Kaminsky will work closely with domestic and import OEMs, along with tier-level suppliers and testing facilities to ensure flow of information essential to the industry’s accurate development of new and innovative products. They will also collaborate to develop opportunities that will benefit SEMA-member manufacturers. Kaminsky’s experience will allow him to cultivate these relationships. Prior to joining SEMA, Kaminsky worked at General Motors as a senior design and release engineer. He oversaw the design, development, validation and release of Chevrolet Performance air intakes, exhausts and components for use in performance applications. He also worked closely with GM emissions compliance and legal groups to ensure engineering hardware development and release processes consistently delivered products that met and exceeded regulatory requirements.
Prior to GM, Kaminsky worked at Bosch Motorsport in a variety of roles, from senior technical engineer to hardware development manager. He managed a department of engineers to develop hardware components for the professional racing industry.
“With his experience and solid OEM and tier supplier relationships, Ben will help the SEMA Garage Detroit best serve our manufacturer members,” shared Spagnola.
The SEMA Garage Detroit will offer manufacturers access to advanced product-development tools and equipment, a state-of-the-art emissions testing lab, an ADAS research and development center and expert technicians who will help bring products to market at the SEMA Garage Detroit. The Detroit facility will give aftermarket parts manufacturers access to sophisticated resources that are typically accessible only to large-scale manufacturers. In addition to exclusive OEM measuring sessions, scanning services, advanced tools and equipment, a CARB-recognized emissions lab and a modern training center, the Detroit facility will include expanded services and offer new SEMA benefits through the ADAS Research and Development Center.
“Being part of SEMA Garage provides me the opportunity to combine my engineering background, project management skills and relationships to make a difference in the automotive and automotive aftermarket industry,” said Benjamin Kaminksy. “I look forward to working with SEMA manufacturer members and continuing my relationships with OEMs and tier suppliers.”
The SEMA Garage Detroit facility is scheduled to be open for members in early 2022. For more information, visit www.semagarage.com.
This article was written by Della Domingo for sema.org
TUSCON, AZ (07.30.2021) – The JT-OBA Onboard Air system was designed to perform under the most extreme conditions. Each system is 100% Bolt-On and features the heavy-duty Kleinn model 6450RC WATERPROOF air compressor with a 2.8-gallon air tank mounted on a superior custom designed mounting bracket. NO Cutting, NO Drilling or Modifications are necessary. These Direct Fit systems include all the necessary air line, hardware, fittings and wiring kit with 30-amp relay.
The JT-OBA is built rugged with a steel cage and integral skid plate for protection with no loss of ground clearance. The 6450RC compressor is fully submersible so water crossings are no problem.
The JT-OBA is capable of inflating 37” tires with ease. System provides an air source for air lockers, small air tools and of course, your Kleinn Air Horn. Each JT-OBA includes a remote mount tire inflator with locking air chuck with digital gauge, pressure relief and storage bag.
HOLLY HILL, FL (07.30.2021) – Axxess by Metra Electronics has a new interface, the AXA2B-FD1, designed to retain the A2B amplifier in Ford’s 2018-up* F-150 and 2017-up* Fusion models. This add-on amplifier interface is used when replacing the factory radio with Metra’s 99-5834CH and 99-5841B TurboTouch dash kits, which are sold separately.
This solution retains the Bang & Olufsen amplifier with an A2B input in Ford’s F-150 and retains the Sony amplifier with an A2B input in Ford Fusion. This Axxess interface also retains the balance audio feature when replacing the factory radio and is Micro “B” USB updatable.
AXA2B-FD1 Product Specifications:
Add-on interface for Metra’s 99-5834CH & 99-5841B dash kits
Allows the amplifier to keep working when replacing the original factory radio
Retains the Bang and Olufsen amplifier with an A2B input in Ford F-150
Retains the Sony amplifier with an A2B input in Ford Fusion
ARLINGTON, TX (07.29.2021) – Tri-State Enterprises, a wholesale distributor of automotive parts, automotive paint, mobile audio/electronics, and truck accessories, is proud to announce the addition of a 492,000 sq ft warehouse in Arlington, TX. This will be the largest facility for Tri-State Enterprises.
Tri-State has designated this space to their growth in the Texas market along with surrounding states. The general manager of the Arlington warehouse is to be Junior Calvert who has more than 30 years in the industry. The assistant general manager is to be Scott Covelli. Scott has been in the industry for 25 years. These two gentlemen, along with a host of other long-time industry team members, are ready to take Tri-State forward in several key areas and categories. Along with this new building, Tri-State is adding new and innovative technologies to increase efficiencies along with expanding its current line offering in all divisions of the company to better serve their customer base.
“We are very excited about our new location in Arlington. With this new facility and the combination of the WM Automotive and Tri-State Texas teams, we feel like we are in a great position to continue to take Tri-State to the next level in the Texas market. Our goal is to offer the best service along with a large inventory to better serve our growing customer base in the great state of Texas. We will have many additions both in categories and personnel over the next few months. Please stay tuned for additional announcements in the very near future. ” – Tri-State owner, Tristan Taylor.
MERRITT ISLAND, FL (07.29.2021) – AccuAir Suspension, maker of next generation air suspension control products, has launched product sales after being acquired by Arnott LLC late last year. E-commerce sales are now available via the company’s new website, https://accuair.com/, for both dealers and direct-to-consumer sales.
The launch includes AccuAir’s cornerstone products, such as the e-Level+ control system, including the e+ Connect ECU with built-in Bluetooth 5.0, and air supply and accessory components. The product offering now available for sale was designed for next generation air suspension control for automotive applications.
“Since Arnott LLC acquired the AccuAir brand in late 2020, we’ve been working hard to launch sales of the brand’s cornerstone air suspension products,” said Ryan Rutledge, AccuAir Suspension’s director of controls. “We’re proud to be launching the brand and products for both wholesale and retail sales. Additionally, we plan to have some exciting new product announcements happening soon.”
As part of the brand’s long-anticipated reemergence, a new, e-commerce driven website has also been launched. The site features more robust e-commerce options than ever before, designed with consumer education in mind. Air suspension enthusiasts can find all of the information needed to build a custom air suspension system for their vehicle.
COMPTON, CA (07.28.2021) – Magnadyne has announced the signing of the CE Guys to represent the New Carbine and Silencer remote start & security product lines for Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North & South Dakota, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky and Hawaii.
Magnadyne’s Armando Parra (L) and CE GUYS Mario Zamudio (C) are pictured with Luis Andrade during a sales call with Custom Car Audio aka M&M Pro Audio in Chicago IL. Parra, based at Magnadyne’s HQ in Compton CA, was traveling the territory with CE GUYS Team members.
With over thirty-four years of experience the CE Guys are a family-owned corporation which is managed by Michael and Christy Foundation. “It’s one thing to have a strong work ethic, but it’s another to do it with sincere passion, —and in sales, that passion has allowed Michael to achieve unbelievable success and industry recognition.” Christy Foundation – CE Guys
“I look forward to working with Michael & Christy, as well as Mario Zamudio, Daniel Mount, and Edric Taira in bringing our New Silencer and Carbine Solutions to one of the largest Automotive Remote Start Centric Markets in the United States. Michael and I are aligned and committed to building a value-added business approach to our dealer and distribution relationships through seamless execution of our customer centric sales, service, and strategic placement initiatives.” Armando Parra – Magnadyne
For more information on the CE Guys or to inquire about becoming an authorized Carbine dealer or authorized Silencer distributor in the Upper and Middle West Markets please contact Michael Foundation (877) 7CE-GUYS or email info@ceguys.com
ARLINGTON, VA (07.28.2021) – The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced that T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert will deliver a keynote address during CES 2022, the world’s most influential technology event. Sievert’s keynote will discuss 5G innovations for consumers, businesses and thought leadership – and spotlight a look into the future of how these advancements are enabling people to work, communicate and learn more efficiently.
“As we return to in-person events, we look forward to convening innovators and business leaders from around the world who will showcase how technology impacts and improves every facet of our daily lives,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “The pace of innovation has accelerated over the last 18 months, and the rapid roll-out of 5G will only increase the momentum. There’s so much excitement in this space and for the first time, we welcome Mike Sievert to our keynote stage to share more about T-Mobile’s vision for fueling 5G innovation.”
5G is the key ingredient driving the future of many industries – from telecommunications and healthcare to transportation and smart cities – and will eventually underpin the global economy. CES 2022 will showcase these technologies and bring together industry advocates, including Mike Sievert, to share insights on the where 5G is headed.
“The last year has shown us the critical role connectivity plays in our lives – for consumers, businesses and society as a whole,” said Sievert. “As the nation’s 5G leader, T-Mobile is driving a transformation in wireless communications. I can’t wait to keynote CES 2022 and showcase new ways this 5G network is unleashing game-changing innovations both now and in the future!”
As CMO, COO and now CEO of T-Mobile, Sievert leads a customer-crazed team of disruptors and innovators, working tirelessly over the last eight years to change the rules of wireless, resulting in T-Mobile becoming the fastest-growing company in the industry. As CEO, Sievert is unrelentingly focused on supercharging the successful Un-carrier strategy to deliver both the best value and best network in wireless and building a company and culture that is world-famous for putting customers first.
CES returns to Las Vegas Jan. 5-8, 2022, with Media Days taking place Jan. 3-4, 2022. This is the first CES 2022 keynote announcement, as CES heads back to Las Vegas for an in-person event. The CES keynote schedule will be updated regularly as keynote speakers are announced. Top visionaries and thought leaders will speak and share insights on premiere technologies during CES 2022. The keynotes will be viewed in-person in Las Vegas and accessed across the globe through the digital experience, giving the world a front row seat to experience the future of technology.
NEW YORK, NY (07.27.2021) – SiriusXM has announced its newest and most comprehensive subscription tier – the Platinum VIP package. Platinum VIP provides subscribers with the full spectrum of SiriusXM content in up to two cars, with a SXM App login for each, as well as special perks, including opportunities to experience SiriusXM events with artists, athletes and stars, including VIP-only exclusives, and VIP Customer Service with priority call handling.
The Platinum VIP package also includes access to an extensive library of live concert video and audio recordings through nugs.net, the leading music platform for live concert streams, offering music fans VIP access to their favorite concerts anytime, anywhere. SiriusXM Platinum VIP subscribers will be able to log in to nugs.net using their SXM App credentials to instantly access more than 5,000 official, soundboard-quality live concert recordings and 250 full video-on-demand concerts handpicked from nugs.net‘s extensive streaming catalog, with new shows added every few months. Listeners can discover exclusive recordings and create custom playlists featuring artists with 24/7 SiriusXM channels including Bruce Springsteen, Phish, Pearl Jam and Dave Matthews, as well as hundreds of other fan favorites like Metallica, Wilco and many, many more – available via the nugs.net mobile app on iOS or Android devices or on a Mac or PC using a browser at nugs.net here.
Platinum VIP subscribers get all of the content SiriusXM offers in both vehicles and on the SXM App – more than 300 channels. These include Howard Stern’s two exclusive channels, live games and events from every major professional sport as well as hundreds of college games, an unparalleled selection of ad-free music channels covering every genre, plus entertainment, news, comedy and more. Platinum VIP is priced at $34.99/month. For more info on all that it offers, go to siriusxm.com/platinumvip.
“Platinum VIP is a terrific addition to our subscription choices and provides real value for those subscribers who love SiriusXM, want it in multiple vehicles, and want all of the premium programming that we offer,” said Richard Beatty, SiriusXM’s Chief Subscription Revenue Officer. “Not only are they getting the value of two subscriptions, they get added perks like special access to great SiriusXM events, concerts, in-studio shows and more. With the bundled-in access to thousands of great live performances via nugs.net, music lovers are getting a premium experience, and Platinum VIP will continue to evolve as SiriusXM’s premium offering with more perks and content being added in the coming months.”
Coinciding with the launch of Platinum VIP, several other SiriusXM subscription plans have been recently renamed, making it easier for subscribers to understand their choices.
The renamed SiriusXM in-vehicle satellite radio subscriptions, which all include access to the SXM App, are:
Platinum (formerly “All Access”)
Music & Entertainment (formerly “Select”)
Music Showcase (formerly “Mostly Music”)
Choose & Save (formerly “Choice”)
The renamed SiriusXM digital (no car required) subscriptions are:
Streaming Platinum (formerly “Premier Streaming”)
Streaming Music & Entertainment (formerly “Essential Streaming”)
The programming lineups in these subscription tiers remain unchanged. More info on what they offer can be found at SiriusXM.com/Subscriptions.
With the rebrand of its subscription plans, SiriusXM is also improving the SXM App experience for potential new subscribers with new preview and in-app purchasing functionality, which is rolling out this month. A new user can open up the SXM App and “Try It Out” with a three-hour preview that will enable them to experience the spectrum of SiriusXM content. This includes one-of-a-kind programming like Howard Stern’s channels, Drake’s Sound 42, Dave Matthews’ Friday Night Concert Series, the popular Highway Music Row Happy Hour with Buzz Brainard, Kevin Hart’s comedy channel, a favorite team’s hometown play-by-play broadcast and much more. Listeners get access to this preview instantly, with no credit card required.
New subscribers will then be able to choose to sign up for SiriusXM’s Streaming Platinum or Streaming Music & Entertainment packages, and get their first month free, without leaving the App experience.
“We’re very excited to launch our new preview and in-app purchasing functionality in the SXM App,” said Beatty. “Our ‘Listen Free’ events have always been a great introduction to our service for new listeners who want to try us out. Now you can try us out anytime and get access to so much great content with our new SXM App preview. And signing up for one of our streaming subscriptions is now easier than ever with in-app purchasing.”
