Industry

Metra Electronics Presents Training Sessions and Show Vehicles at KnowledgeFest Live Virtual Event

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HOLLY HILL, FL (12.08.2020) – Metra Electronics will be a part of the virtual KnowledgeFest Live event, hosted December 11-13, 2020. This three-day event for mobile electronics industry professionals is hosted by the Mobile Electronics Association. Metra is proud to be a platinum sponsor and host three manufacturer training sessions online that will help dealers sell and install custom audio and lighting accessories for new Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models, powersports UTVs, and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Attendees will be able to interact with Metra’s sales team and participants will be able to ask questions during the live training sessions. Metra’s virtual booth will also feature videos of four of their sponsored vehicles, to give attendees a similar experience they would find had they toured the booth at an in-person event.

Training sessions will include the following topics:
“Upgrading the New Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator” will be hosted on Friday, December 11 from 8:20 PM to 9:20 PM EST. Jeep owners want to customize their rides to reflect their own personal style. With the new Gladiator and Wrangler JL models on the market, aftermarket audio and lighting products designed specifically for the new body style will be a hot item for the holiday season. In this training session, attendees will learn about Metra’s latest audio accessories, vehicle-specific lighting solutions and universal RGB underglow lighting from Metra and Heise LED Lighting Systems. Metra will unbox the new products, give valuable tips for selling and installing these solutions, plus show a demo of the new RGB lighting controller and smartphone app.

“New Audio Accessories to Improve the System in UTVs” will be hosted on Saturday, December 12 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM EST. Powersports vehicles continue to be a popular opportunity for installers to add revenue outside traditional car audio installations. Attendees will learn about the newest solutions on the market for upgrading a Polaris RZR and Polaris General audio system with Ride Command technology available from Metra PowerSports. This training will also showcase new universal and vehicle-specific products designed for upgrading the power system and how to fit aftermarket speakers into Polaris, Can-Am, and other UTVs without custom fabrication.

“Lighting and Audio Upgrades for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles” will be hosted on Sunday, December 13 from 4:10 PM to 5:10 PM EST. Attendees will learn how to cut down installation time on Harley-Davidson audio and lighting upgrades using Saddle Tramp products. The session reviews the new plug-n-play harnessing solutions that will reduce time in the bay when adding aftermarket speakers, amplifiers, Axxess DSPs, and RGB lighting to popular Harley-Davidson models. Attendees will see how they can offer upgrades to make their customer’s motorcycles louder and more stylish, without the need for labor-intensive custom fabrication and wiring.

All three of the sessions will stream live from the Metra install bay with Jason Anderson, VP of Product Research and Development. To register, visit Knowledgefest.live and sign-up for the event. An additional registration is required for Metra’s training sessions, which can be done from the Manufacturer Training page. On December 11, attendees will be able to view Metra’s virtual booth and participate in the event.

Sponsored show vehicle videos will feature a custom-built 2020 Jeep Wrangler JL Sport S by Extreme Offroad and Performance in Katy, TX using Metra products. A 2019 Chevrolet Express 3500 van conversion by Ryno Built Rods and Customs in Grand Junction, MO will also be showcased, along with a 2016 Ford F-150 Raptor truck conversion owned by Metra’s sales rep, Jon Brothers. A completely gutted and rebuilt military van by the team at Throtl, dubbed “the coolest ice cream truck in the world,” will also be featured in a video that highlights their installation journey using Metra’s products.

These videos will go live on December 11 and also be available to watch from the Metra Youtube channel.

JBL Rolls Out All-in-One Subwoofer and Portable Speaker Subsystem

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STAMFORD, CT (12.07.2020) – HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated has announced JBL BassPro Go. A hybrid automobile subwoofer and portable speaker, this versatile speaker system connects music enthusiasts to JBL’s Signature Sound for an exceptional audio experience on-the-go.

When docked inside the vehicle’s trunk, the JBL BassPro Go adds powerful bass to the existing car audio system, delivering sound performance equivalent to a traditional aftermarket subwoofer system. Engineered with a subwoofer and two passive radiators, the sub system allows users enhance the bass response to their listening preferences.

The JBL BassPro Go also operates as a portable Bluetooth speaker when undocked from the vehicle. The speaker is designed to deliver big concert sound to outlast any tailgate or party with its 8 hours of play time. Users can connect up to 3 mobile devices and take turns playing DJ when it’s detached from the mount.

The JBL BassPro Go also features JBL Connect technology that can wirelessly link two BassPro Go speakers together to amplify the listening experience. The speaker’s sleek, iconic design integrates with any vehicle’s interior while delivering superior sound. In addition, the water resistant covering lets users embrace an on-the-go lifestyle without worrying about rain or spills. Built for versatility, the system is easy to dock or undock with no tools required and has the ability to charge devices via USB so users are always connected.

“The JBL BassPro Go is the first of its kind and will set a new standard in the Aftermarket industry,” said Shawn Spedding, Director of Sales, Mobile Audio Aftermarket at HARMAN. “With its dual functionalities, consumers get a quality subwoofer system to enhance their in-car audio system with the added convenience of doubling as an exceptional portable speaker, ready for outside use.”

Pricing and Availability:
The JBL BassPro Go will be available for purchase for $549.95 at JBL.com and select JBL retailers in December 2020.

Visit JBL.com for more info.

Metra Electronics Shipping New Dash Kits for Mercedes-Benz and Kia Soul

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HOLLY HILL, FL (12.07.2020) – Metra Electronics is shipping four new dash kits to upgrade older model Mercedes-Benz C, S, and SL-Class vehicles with a Double-DIN radio provision, along with a new integrated dash kit for 2020-up* Kia Soul models. These dash kits were announced at SEMA360 and are in stock now.

The 95-8734W is designed for 2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models and is coated with a hydrographic film for a woodgrain finish that matches the factory look and feel. The 95-8734B is designed for 2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models and is painted scratch-resistant matte black. The 95-8735B is for 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class models and is painted scratch-resistant matte black. For 2008-2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 models, the 95-8733B dash kit includes an upper panel with a recessed re-location of the factory buttons and is painted scratch-resistant matte black. All four of the new dash kits are designed for Double-DIN radio provisions.

For 2020-up* Kia Soul models without navigation, the 99-7397B dash kit fits both a Double-DIN radio or a Single-DIN radio provision with a pocket and is painted scratch-resistant matte black. This integrated dash kit includes pre-wired harnessing and an interface that retains the factory steering wheel controls, plus a 6v adapter to retain the factory backup camera. An antenna adapter is also included and the dash kit features an integrated circuit board and laser-etched graphics for a molded hard button to retain the vehicle’s hazard button. This dash kit is available now from Metra Electronics.

Visit MetraOnline.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Launches New Polaris Dynamic ColorSHIFT Surface Mount DRL Signature Light

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METAIRIE, LA (12.04.2020) – Oracle Lighting is proud to announce its new Dynamic ColorSHIFT Surface Mount DRL Signature Light for 2019-2021 Polaris RZR Turbo and 1000 (p/n 1447-332). The new powersports “Fang Light” is now available with an MSRP of $299.95.

“Our Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ fits all 2019+ Polaris RZR 1000 and Turbo (except Pro), and features individually addressable LEDs which pack a ton of unique features,” explained Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “The dynamic features allow the user to run multiple moving color patterns through the LEDs, creating a vivid eye-catching lighting effect. The new RGB+A (RGB+ Amber LED) SWITCHBACK line-up features Amber LEDs creating the exclusive Dynamic FLOW turn signal effect.”

The Dynamic FLOW Turn Signals (an Oracle Lighting exclusive) has a sequential indicator which sends the LEDs in a wave towards the direction you are turning. This unique feature is built in to the control box but is optional and does not need to be connected if you choose not to. The connection is easy…just connect the LH and RH input cables to the + turn signal wire leads. Note: if your vehicle is not equipped with a turn signal kit you will need to add that to use this feature. 

The Dynamic DRL Startup Sequence (an Oracle Lighting exclusive) is the latest advancement in Oracle Lighting’s Dynamic LED line. This feature creates an exciting motion effect when you start up the vehicle, giving the appearance of the DRL lights “waking up”. It is easy to install by simply connecting the integrated DRL wire to ignition + power.  

“The Waterproof Surface Mount Design features our patent-pending waterproof LED modules which install directly onto the lens surface,” Hartenstein continued. “Because these new Surface-Mount DRLs are installed directly to the outside surface, installation is fast and easy…even for a beginner.”

The Smartphone App Control can easily make standard white colors as well as any static colors using the LED color wheel. What makes these DYNAMIC halos more unique is that you can also display a variety of moving patterns within the app. With more than 200 different patterns there is something to fit every color scheme imaginable.

Click here to visit the Dynamic ColorSHIFT Surface Mount DRL Signature Light product page.

“Installation is very easy thanks to the IP67 waterproof characteristics of the Halos,” Hartenstein concluded. “The LEDs are completely encapsulated in a waterproof resin which allows them to be installed onto the outside of the lens. Plus, wiring is now easy with the plug-and-play connectors between the LED modules and LED driver and LED controller. Simply plug the halos into the LED driver and connect the provided leads to + and – to the battery. The cables even have ring terminals already installed for the closest thing to ‘Plug-and-Play’ you can get with a kit like this. Once connected to the battery simply download the app on your phone and turn on your lights.”

Having celebrated its 20-year anniversary in 2019, Metairie, LA-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com.

Mobile Solutions Introduces Wire Management Tool

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TEMPE, AZ (12.04.2020) – Mobile Solutions has introduced the Wire Ruler, an innovative and easy-to-use tool created to make wire management in a car audio system visually pleasing while also enhancing serviceability. Its purpose is to facilitate clean layout of wiring with evenly measured spacing of zip ties or other wire management clips.

Created by well-known installation technicians and YouTube gurus Dean Beyett and Fernando Lopez at Five Star Car Stereo, the ruler is how so many of their clean wiring projects get efficiently accomplished. “This is a must for any professional technician or DIY enthusiast to elevate your wire management techniques to the next level” stated Beyett and Lopez.

Made from durable, laser-etched translucent plastic, the Wire Ruler system comes in two-pieces; one 12-inch section and an interlocking 5.5-inch add on section for longer wire runs. Along the ruler are pre-measured holes for marking zip tie location markings and then drilling precise holes. The laser-cut hole spacing and size of zip ties can be varied to accommodate larger gauge wiring or smaller bundles such as RCA audio cables, speaker wiring or data cables. Large holes on the ends make it easy to hang on a wall bracket next to other templates.

Features:
• Wire tie spacing intervals are laser-etched
• .75-inch and 1.25-inch spacing (skip holes for 1.5-inch or 2.5-inch spacing)
• Designed for 4” and 8” zip ties
• Easy to see through for optimal layout
• Increase serviceability of equipment and wiring
• Enhance install with straight, clean wire runs
• Fast and easy to use – saves install time
• Ideal for professionals or DIY enthusiasts

Pricing
• $24.99 – Wire Ruler Set (two pieces – one long, one short)
• $39.99 – Wire Ruler Double Pack (four pieces – two long, two short)

Originally created by Dean and Fernando as their own in-house tooling idea, Mobile Solutions will now partner with the pair to manufacture and exclusively distribute the Wire Ruler from its Tempe, AZ facility. “This is a great collaboration for our company to work with a fellow creative problem-solvers like Dean and Fernando” remarks Bryan Schmitt of Mobile Solutions. Dean and his co-host, Fernando, have five separate social media channels that reach both industry professionals and DIY enthusiasts, all the while running the installation bay operation at Five Star Car Stereo in Clearwater, FL. “It made a lot of sense to partner with Mobile Solutions on this Wire Ruler” added Beyett.

The Wire Ruler is in stock and available now. For more details and to see a how-to video on the Wire Ruler uses, visit www.mobilesolutions-USA.com. Orders can easily be placed online. For phone orders, call 480-968-2074.

Massive Introduces Six Channel PX6 PRIMO SERIES Amplifiers

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CITY OF COMMERCE, CA (12.03.2020) – Chuck Kenney, National Sales Manager, is shown with the new 6 Channel Primo PX6 Amplifier in the Massive Audio HQ warehouse in Commerce, CA.

The Massive Audio PRIMO Series PX6 is a 6 channel Amplifier that easily delivers up to 180 Watts RMS to each of 6 Channels @ 2Ω and 130 Watts @ 4Ω. All PRIMO series amps use Mil Spec PCBs with Surface Mount Devices.

Chuck Kenney, National Sales Manager, is shown with the new 6 Channel Primo PX6 Amplifier in the Massive Audio HQ warehouse in Commerce, CA.

Inside you will discover full MOSFET high grade switching devices and only top quality 1% resistors, caps, connectors complete the “no compromise design.” You can be assured your investment will last as a result of our 5-way protection circuitry and LED Clipping Indicators for front & rear. Our built-in OEM Line Converter enables installation of this Amplifier in any system as a result of its input sensitivity adjustable up to 10V RMS with our Auto Turn On circuit and there’s a 12 Volt remote output for external 12 Volt devices. Adding to its street cred is its compliance with the Consumer Technology Association’s CTA 2006 Standards for Car Audio Amplifiers. Not only does it comply; it outperforms its standard rating. I.C.P. (In Car Performance) is the main design goal. 

Outside you will be impressed with its polished CNC machined aviation grade 6061 aluminum fin-less heat sink housing a blue back lit logo. glowing radiantly in blue, announcing to the world you’re in possession of PRIMO equipment. The end caps feature a 2 / 4 / 6 Channel Input Selector and individual adjustments for level and crossover frequency there are Clip LED Indicators For All 6 Channels Multiple Channel Selector for HPF / LPF and a 0 – 12 dB variable Bass Boost on the 5 & 6 channels. Additionally, the PX6 supports a “Docking Port” to plug in an optional custom matching 4 Farad Railcap Booster (RCP). 

FEATURES INCLUDE:

  • Extreme Power in a Small Footprint
  • Clip LED Indicators for All 6 Channels
  • 2 / 4 / 6 Channel Input Selector
  • Multiple Channel Selector for HPF / LPF
  • Low Distortion Full Band Width for Sound Quality Tuning
  • Mil Spec Double Sided PCB design with SMD parts
  • Tiffany Style Nickel plated RCA’s 
  • Full MOSFET with High Grade switching devices
  • Built-in Auto Sensing turn on function with LED Indicator (Hi-Inputs)
  • 12V Remote Output for External Devices (Hi-Inputs)
  • 0~12dB Variable Bass Boost for Channels 5/6
  • Next Generation Advanced 5 Way Protection Circuitry
  • Illuminated Logo
  • Designed and Engineered in U.S.A.
  • CTA 2006 Standard Compliant 

For B2B sales inquiries, national sales manager Chuck Kenney can be reached at: 214-587-7603 chuckk@massiveaudio.com 

For general information, contact Massive Audio at 323-262-2262 or visit www.massiveaudio.com  

Infinity Launches New Car Audio Digital Sound Processor Amplifier

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STAMFORD, CT (12.03.2020) – HARMAN has launched a new car audio amplifier, Infinity DSP Amplifier INFDSP4425. With detailed tuning capabilities, the self-contained audio system is engineered for the ultimate sound experience. 

Featuring 4-channel audio inputs, 4-channel powered audio outputs and 2-channel pre-amp outputs, the amplifier’s balanced differential inputs provide users with a professional sound quality and noise rejection technology. The Infinity DSP Amplifier offers everything necessary to create a car audio system or expand an existing one. The system also offers installers the ability to add more power by using it as a line driver during the next power upgrade. 

Built with Infinity’s iconic heritage in mind, the audio processor features a sleek, curved amplifier body, angular end cap and the classic five-line staff with Infinity logo. With Infinity’s classic, industrial design, the DSP amplifier will look amazing wherever it is mounted and promises to seamlessly blend into any lifestyle. 

“As one of the most renowned audio brands in the world, we are excited to launch the Infinity DSP Amplifier to satisfy audio enthusiasts on the road,” said Shawn Spedding, Director of Sales, Mobile Audio Aftermarket at HARMAN. “We carefully engineered the audio amplifier for consumers looking for superior performance at an attainable price point. With arduous testing and quality control, we’re proud to deliver a world class audio experience to every driver.” 

Built specifically for enhancing the car audio market, the Infinity DSP Amplifier was engineered to introduce the ultimate sound experience to any aftermarket audio system.

Visit www.infinityspeakers.com for more. 

Accele Electronics Offers Seat Heating and Cooling Systems

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SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (12.02.2020) – Accele Electronics is offering seat heating and cooling systems to enhance the driving experience. These products add to sales opportunities for 12volt retail shops and expeditors.

The Accele SHC-200 seat heating and cooling system is ideal for warmer climates where cooling is equally important as heating in northern regions.

Each heating and cooling system kit includes 2 pads that contain 4 individual fans for cooling plus additional elements for heating. Both modes are operated with one switch that controls high, low and off for each function.

Visit the new company website for more information: www.accele.com

Accele Electronics Delivers “Additional Comfort to Driving”

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SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (11.23.2020) – Accele Electronics has announced the addition of seat comfort solutions for Expediters, Restylers and 12volt Specialist. These companies can now offer their customers seat massaging system kits.

The Accele Electronics SM-600 Seat Massaging System provides installers an aftermarket option for the latest seating technology now being adopted by a vehicle manufacturers worldwide. More vehicles (Ford F150, Explorer, BMW, Cadillac, Audi, Lincoln, Jaguar, and Mercedes) now offer an option watch thought to be only for president and kings on the top tier of luxury vehicles.

The SM-600 includes six individual motorized pads with a switch to cycle through pre-programmed modes or manual operation including three intensities.

Visit the new www.accele.com more.

NHTSA Requests Public Comment on Safety Principles for Automated Driving Systems

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.01.2020) – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued an advanced proposed rule to begin creating a framework for regulatory oversight of Automated Driving Systems (ADS). The agency is seeking public comment on ADS safety issues to be addressed as they enter the marketplace. The framework is intended to define, assess, and manage ADS performance safety issues while providing flexibility for continued design innovation.

NHTSA had identified four core ADS functions:

  • Sensing: ability of the automated vehicle (AV) to receive information from its environment;
  • Perception: ability of the AV to interpret the information received through sensors;
  • Planning: ability of the AV to establish and navigate a route to its destination; and
  • Control: ability of the AV to execute the driving functions necessary to carry out the driving plan.

Although wide-scale deployment of AVs may be several years away, the technology to be incorporated in the vehicles is being actively developed and tested—from cameras, radar, and LiDAR to global position satellite (GPS) data, vehicle-to-vehicle communications and vehicle-to-everything devices. The technology is being incorporated into new crash avoidance safety systems such as automated braking and lane departure warnings.

NHTSA notes that it is premature for the agency to issue safety standards or other performance standards for ADS competency. However, the advance proposed rule is intended to help identify aspects of ADS safety performance that may need the most attention. NHTSA has presented 25 questions in seeking public feedback on a range of topics including how to prioritize core elements of ADS safety performance, how to evaluate the functions, and how to consider regulatory oversight of the systems (guidance documents, industry best practices, safety standards, etc.)

For additional information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

Visit sema.org for more.