DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.08.2020) – Applications for the SEMA360 Builder Showcase are now open. In the absence of the in-person SEMA Show, the new SEMA360 was created as a 100% online trade-only event that focuses on an eCommerce marketplace, new products, vehicle builds and education for the automotive specialty-equipment industry.
Unlike the SEMA Show, where vehicle space is limited and vehicle applications must be submitted by a participating manufacturer, the SEMA360 Builder Showcase allows vehicle builders the opportunity to enter vehicles directly into the program.
“We’re excited to open up the SEMA360 Builder Showcase to all the talented builders across our industry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “We wanted to put a spotlight on the trends and innovation that go into these vehicle builds every year while highlighting the people that bring the creations to life.”
The SEMA360 Builder Showcase will enable all builders, including seasoned and new builders, to reach an unlimited audience. “This is truly a worldwide platform to show off the passion and creativity SEMA week has become known for,” continued Gattuso. “The support we have had for SEMA360 has been tremendous, and we can’t wait to see what this new Showcase feature will bring.”
Applications to participate in the Builder Showcase must be submitted online by October 9. Builders must submit a complete application that includes vehicle information, up to 10 photos and an optional 90-second builder highlight video. Builders may also apply through a SEMA360 participating manufacturer.
All entries in the SEMA360 Builder Showcase may also participate in SEMA Battle of the Builders. Now in its seventh year, SEMA Battle of the Builders is the foremost competition that recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of SEMA vehicle builders.
Select vehicles from the competition will be featured in the television special and in SEMA publications and websites, and plans are for the top vehicles and builders to be flown to Los Angeles for filming.
Applications and details for SEMA Battle of the Builders can be found at www.semabotb.com.
CLEARWATER, FL (10.07.2020) – AAMP Global and its Commercial Division EchoMaster Fleet Solutions have entered the Telematics space with a new line of products incorporating hardware, software and support.
Featured products and services include asset and fleet trackers, an intelligent dash cam, live streaming video, real-time tracking, and nationwide customer service. The Telematics line expands AAMP Global’s current vehicle technology and driving experience solutions for on-road, off-road, and off-shore vehicles.
The new Telematics products will allow companies to better monitor their fleets and make more informed and precise strategic business planning and fleet management decisions to increase margins, improve safety and better manage assets. By monitoring heavy equipment, trailers and other assets in real-time, companies will also be able to improve security, utilization, maintenance and uptime.
“AAMP Global and EchoMaster Fleet Solutions are excited to enter this new market with our comprehensive Telematics platform. Our solution will give fleet managers the data and analytics to make the best use case of assets in real-time and for future planning and growth, allowing them to deliver maximum efficiency and profitability,” said Brad Chapple, AAMP Global’s Executive Vice President/General Manager of Commercial/Fleet. “These tools have the capability to improve everything from driver safety to a company’s bottom line.”
The Telematics hardware offerings — including two asset trackers, two fleet trackers, and an intelligent dash cam that films live streaming video both outside and inside fleet vehicles — help owners and managers track fleets in real time through tools such as driver management, vehicle health, maintenance management, traffic, and route Planning.
A key differentiator is AAMP Global’s monitoring software, powered by M2M in Motion and accessible via tablets, mobile devices (Android and iOS) and PC. This user-friendly single-platform tool gives fleet managers the ability to set up automated reports and notifications, so they can make decisions quickly and effectively.
“There’s no need to spend hours digging through endless raw data, as all the information you need to know about your fleet is presented to you,” Chapple said. “As a bonus, all this data can help lower insurance costs, as fleets are able to show a long-standing record of safe driving.”
Automatic alerts for collisions and other major incidents
Monitoring for idling vehicles, engine faults and battery levels
Tracking driver speeding, harsh braking and harsh cornering incidents (and the ability to set your own parameters, be notified of any violations)
Monitoring vehicle maintenance, including costs and trends, to help optimize the maintenance process
Mixed fleet management: Tracks both motorized fleet vehicles and nonmotorized hardware (generators, trailers, etc.), all through one platform, a breakthrough in the telematics space
Generation of automated reports to simplify fleet analysis
Tracking usage and engine hours to predict and schedule maintenance needs automatically
Direct comparison of vehicle data and driver data
Reduction of paperwork through real-time hours of service monitoring
The Safety Coach feature monitors driver behavior to reduce distracted driving, prevent collisions and protect the brand reputation. This feature allows safe drivers to be rewarded, and risky drivers to be identified and coached.
Unparalleled service
With more than 3,000 installation partners nationwide, AAMP Global can direct large orders to facilities for installation. And plug-and-play harnesses are available for transport trucks for simplified installation (without OBD II inputs). In addition, “always on” product and customer support are not just words, it’s the way that AAMP Global operates.
Customized software training is also offered to all AAMP Global customers. Supporting video files from in-vehicle dash cams are stored in the cloud and can be accessed in multiple ways, including live streaming, manual search by date, or automatic share in the case of a crash or harsh braking incident.
“At the end of the day, EchoMaster Fleet Solutions can now be your go-to option for any commercial Telematics need. We are the most efficient full-service solution provider for Fleet, Commercial, and OES, which is matched by the industry’s best customer support,” Chapple said.
For additional information, contact an EchoMaster Fleet Solutions representative or visit echomasterfleetsolutions.com.
SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA (10.07.2020) – Accele Electronics has announced a new solution for providing rear visibility to vehicles with a 3rd Brake Light that lack a Camera: RVC1600. The RVC1600 is the Camera installers have been looking for since rear view safety became an issue over 10 years ago. It’s small enough to fit on or above the 3rd Brake Light on many vehicles and is packed with features found only in much larger Cameras.
Its universal design eliminates the need to stock dozens of vehicle specific Cameras without sacrificing features and performance. Features include IR LED illumination with auto on/off light sensor, a built-in Microphone, IP68 Waterproof rating and a 60 foot extension cable for larger RV’s. The Camera has a 150° Diagonal View and 0.5 Lux for low light situations.
Installers will appreciate that the Video and Microphone cable can be run through a single ¼” hole. Dimensions of 29mm W x 22mm D x 24mm H make it extremely small and mountable from the top or back of the camera, allowing for easy underlip installation.
The RVC1600 includes an adjustable metal shielding bracket. The RVC1600 is available for immediate shipment, contact your Accele Sales Representative.
CLEARWATER, FL (10.06.2020) – PAC has launched a fully integrated Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT kit for its Stinger HEIGH10 multimedia head units under its well-known radio integration brand, RadioPRO Advanced.
The kit (part number SRK-JW18EH), enables you to replace the factory radio in a Jeep Wrangler JL (2018 – 2020) or a Gladiator JT (2020) with a show-stopping 10-inch touchscreen multimedia system called the HEIGH10 by Stinger Electronics. With the kit, drivers enjoy the benefits of retaining their factory features while adding even more upgraded features.
Access the following retained features (if equipped) from your HEIGH10 multimedia head unit:
All factory cameras in full high definition
Dual and single zone factory climate control
Factory amplifier
Factory USB ports
Safety group chimes, including ParkSense
Steering wheel controls
Auxiliary switch panel settings
Heated seats / heated steering wheel
On-screen vehicle settings menu
PAC’s new application allows for added features and new customizable screens:
Vehicle information screen: tire pressure with custom pressure threshold, current vehicle status – including door open/closed/removed, view and clear check engine status
Vehicle drivetrain screen (Jeep off-road data including): transfer case, axle and sway bar status, current position (latitude/longitude), altitude, steering angle
Vehicle gauges: eight gauges on screen, save up to 2 presets, battery voltage, oil temperature, oil pressure, transmission temperature, coolant temperature… and many more
Vehicle performance screen: speed, RPM, current/best 0-60mph time, current/best 60-0mph brake distance, current/best ¼ mile time
The kit includes everything you need to upgrade the factory radio including the dash kit and mounting hardware for a beautiful flush-mount factory look, RadioPRO Advanced vehicle integration module, PAC-link adapter for Stinger multimedia systems, high-definition factory camera retention module, vehicle specific plug-n-play wire harness, satellite antenna adapter, AM/FM antenna adapter, USB retention cables and external chime speaker (HEIGH10 radio sold separately).
AVON LAKE, OH (10.06.2020) – Racers and hot rod owners can place thermal protection right where they need it most with new Stand-Off Kits from Design Engineering, Inc.
Designed as a safe, convenient solution for installing heat barriers, custom thermal shields and more, each Stand-Off is made from corrosion resistant stainless steel that is long lasting and will handle high temperatures.
Click to view full PDF.
Stand-Offs are ideal for creating a space or cooling air gap for heat dissipation between pieces of metal, aluminum, plastic or any material where standoffs can be fastened. They can also be used in many non- automotive applications where a supportive spacer or brace is needed.
“Stand-Off Kits allow for custom mounting of vital heat guards in any application,” said Mike Buca of DEI. “These kits are designed to be used with up to ½-inch wide worm clamps or DEI stainless steel ties.”
Universal stainless steel kits come with six Stand-Offs, plus washers and mounting hardware for a quick, easy installation. For more information about the Stand-Off Kits and DEI’s entire lineup of heat and sound control products, visit www.DesignEngineering.com.
LONG BEACH, CA (10.05.2020) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is thrilled to announce the release of 2 new 6-1/2” 4-ohm marine/motorsports speaker sets with built-in LED lighting. Both coming in with a MAP of $199.95, the CS-DR620MBL feature black grilles, while the CS-DR621MWL feature white.
Designed for outdoor use, these rugged and reliable speakers are built to last, being waterproof and having dust protection. With a power handling of 75 watts of RMS (260 watts MAX), they also make for an excellent companion to the KS-DR1004D compact 4-channel amplifier.
The well-lit duo brags 21 color options and dynamic pattern modes, along with 8 different brightness and speed adjustments. Up to 6 pairs can be wired together, providing more than enough illumination to light up any boat or UTV application. Oftentimes sold separately, these speaker sets include an RF (non-directional) remote controller, allowing LED control from up to 98 feet away.
“At a time when aftermarket marine and motorsports gear is in high demand, we wanted to provide a simple, effective, and fun speaker solution that can be used in universal outdoor applications,” said Ron Trout, Director of JVC Mobile Entertainment Sales. “Combining mood enhancing lighting with supreme JVC sound quality creates the perfect combination for our customers.”
JVC prides itself on offering universal solutions for every customer. Adding to an already impressive line-up of 10 marine and motorsports products, these 2 additions create new opportunities for dealers looking to maximize their opportunities. From golf carts to boats, motorcycles to tractors and more, JVC has you covered.
PAPILLION, NE (10.05.2020) – Nakamichi Car Audio is excited to announce the hiring of its latest rep firm ROCK-N-REV SALES in the Midwest Territory. (MINKS)
RNR owner Jeff (Boody) Budin has been a staple part of the 12-Volt community for over 25 years and his new rep firm has been setting record sales numbers.
Jeff Budin is ready to install the Nakamichi NA6605 in his Rock-N-Rev Tundra.
When asked his thoughts on the new Nakamichi NA6605 CarPlay / Android Auto piece this was Jeff’s review:
“I couldn’t think of a better way to try the unit out than installing it in my own truck,” stated Budin. “I was impressed that a value product like this was offering Android Auto! It also has 2 USB ports which is kinda cool and you’re even able to retain steering wheel control for its low price point. If the whole line checks out anything like this then dealers got a home run. TWO THUMBS UP!”
The responsiveness of the 6.8-inch screen is impressive.
“We want to welcome Jeff to our rep network,” stated Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio. “He is off to a great start and has hit the ground running.”
ROCK-N-REV SALES & MARKETING covers the states of NE, IA, KS, MO and Southern Illinois
CLEARWATER, FL (010.02.2020) – AAMP Global named Scott Forst as its President and Chief Executive Officer. In addition, previous President and Chief Executive Officer, Jamie Fraser was appointed Executive Chairman of AAMP’s Board.
“I am delighted to announce Scott’s promotion to President and Chief Executive Officer,” said Fraser. “I have worked closely with Scott over the past few years and am confident that he will continue to execute on the growth strategies for the organization as he has leading the Americas Division.”
Scott Forst, President and CEO
Forst has been with the company for over 8 years in various roles. Starting as Senior Vice President of Sales, he spent much of his time gaining an in-depth knowledge of the industry, especially the 12-volt network of dealers that the company supports. After 5 years, Forst was promoted to President of the Americas where he led the division’s growth strategy through acquisition, channel expansion and product development.
As President and CEO, Scott will continue to focus his efforts on the company’s overall growth strategies both organically and through acquisition with an emphasis on technology and fully integrated vehicle-specific solutions.
“I am proud and honored to be placed in the role of President and CEO,” said Forst. “I thank Jamie and the Board for the opportunity and look forward to continuing to execute on our ambitious goals with the support of our valued channel partners globally.”
ORLANDO, FL (10.02.2020) – VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC) has announced the launch of Auto Oxide, an EPA registered (EPA Registration No. 10324-63-63838) disinfectant effective for neutralizing multiple viruses including SARS-CoV-2 the cause of COVID-19. Today, protecting your employees and customers is now more important than ever, provide peace of mind during these challenging times with a safe multi-surface cleaning solution.
Auto Oxide, a surface sanitizer is safe to use on all surfaces (even food) to kill 99.999% of viruses such as Coronavirus, Influenza, Norovirus, H1N1, Hepatitis A, B & C, and RSV by eliminating the source. Great for upholstery, carpets, mats, and auto interiors this odor-free spray also eliminates odors due to smoke, trash, mold, and more.
“Our dealers, customers, and consumers come first, and with that comes their health. These days clean work areas are now more important than ever and VOXX is proud to bring Auto Oxide to the U.S. market. Having a solution that is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), is a major win for our dealers as they are able to offer their customers a clean vehicle on return,” said Aron Demers, Senior Vice President, VOXX Electronics Corporation.
Auto Oxide was specifically designed and tested for vehicle interiors and will not harm cloth, leather, suede, vinyl or other special materials.
For more information about Auto Oxide please visit:
SEATTLE, WA (10.01.2020) – Firstech is announcing the addition of two new remote kits to its Compustar PRO Series line of remote car starters: the PRO T13 (RFX-P2WT13-SF) and PRO R5 (RFP2WR5-SF). Both remote kits include 2-way, USB rechargeable remotes with super-long range and proximity unlocking capabilities.
The Compustar PRO T13 will be Firstech’s flagship model heading into the 2020 remote start and holiday seasons. The PRO T13 remote will be capable of up to 3 miles of 2-way range for remote start, security, and keyless entry commands. All remote commands are confirmed on the remote’s vibrant, color LCD. The PRO T13 also features a water-resistant case design and USB charging port. On a full charge, the maximum battery life is 45 days.
For convenient vehicle access, the Compustar PRO T13 and R5 remote kits will offer new proximity unlocking capabilities. This feature, which is built into the RF antenna, automatically unlocks and disarms the vehicle when the remote is within 3-6 feet. Proximity unlocking makes getting into the vehicle easier for users carrying shopping bags or equipment into their cars.
Joining the PRO T13 in the Compustar PRO Series lineup will be the PRO R5. The R5 remote is a compact, one button solution that uses LEDs to provide 2-way remote start and keyless entry confirmation. Two special characteristics of the PRO R5 is that it will be USB rechargeable and capable of receiving 2-way alarm alerts.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to release the next-generation of Compustar remotes in time for the 2020/21 remote start season,” shares Jason Kaminski, Firstech’s Managing Director. “Both the T13 and R5 are packed with the best Compustar has to offer, including improved durability, extended battery life, elegant case design, and enhanced user experience – just to name a few.”
The Compustar PRO T13 and PRO R5 will include two 2-way remotes in each kit along with the Drone X1 LTE telematics module for connecting the system to the DroneMobile app. Upon installation, customers can activate a 30-day free Premium trial to DroneMobile for smartphone control, GPS tracking, and family sharing.
Firstech will begin shipping limited quantities of the PRO T13 and R5 in mid-October 2020, with a full release scheduled for early December. These remotes kits will be available exclusively to authorized Compustar Pro retailers.