JVCKENWOOD Expands Training & Product Support Team

Posted on December 4, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged JVCKENWOOD.

LONG BEACH, CA (12.05.2019) – JVCKENWOOD USA has hired Josh Bowen and Marcus Vasconcellos as Mobile Electronics Product Specialists for the company’s car electronics division. These new positions will provide enhanced support to JVC and KENWOOD retailers, reps, and distributors through training, advanced technical assistance, and event support.

Josh Bowen brings 10 years of retail mobile electronics experience, serving in various aspects of sales, installation, and management, most recently serving as sales/installation manager for Sommer Sound Systems in Panama City, FL. Josh’s drive for the industry shines clearly, boasting a Top 50 Installer of the Year position in the 2019 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.

Marcus Vasconcellos is a 17-year industry veteran who also comes directly from the retail circuit. He has served in various capacities including sales, installation, and marketing in the lower Midwest for stores including Audio Tech in Lawton, OK and Big Daddy’s Stereo in Longview, TX. Marcus’s passion for 12 Volt doesn’t stop with his custom fabrication and design skills, but also becomes evident with his love for music.

“Bowen and Vasconcellos are the perfect additions to the team, being able to relate and communicate seamlessly with dealers through their direct and recent 12 Volt retail sales and installation experience,” said Scott Caswell, Senior Marketing Manager for JVCKENWOOD USA. “As we develop new and innovative ways to reach and support our dealers in a rapidly changing industry, we will be able to leverage their skill sets accordingly.”

These new positions will be largely split East and West of the Mississippi, with Bowen focusing on JVC and KENWOOD dealers and events to the East, and Vasconcellos to the West. They will report directly to Seth Halstead, National Training and Content Development Manager, of whom will be able to further focus on and work with them to create training materials, including on-line materials and video content.

Bowen commented, “I couldn’t be happier to be a part of such an amazing organization that is focused on providing solutions that meet the needs of sales, installers, and consumers.”

Vasconcellos added “This is an incredible time to be a part of a growing company that is committed to the future of the 12 Volt industry!”

Bowen can be reached at jbowen@us.jvckenwood.com, and Vasconcellos can be reached at mvasconcellos@us.jvckenwood.com.

Visit us.jvckenwood.com for more.

NAV-TV Appoints Belair & Associates as Factory Representative for Southern California

Posted on December 4, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Belair & Associates, NAV-TV.

CORAL SPRINGS, FL & COSTA MESA, CA (12.05.2019) – NAV-TV Corp. has announced the appointment of Belair & Associates as Factory Representatives for the Southern California Territory.

“Michael Belair and Russ Brayall have been closely associated with the NAV-TV brand on both the retail and distribution side for years. Their technical aptitude and firsthand experience with our product line will enable them to properly service NAV-TV dealers in and around the Southern California market. We are pleased to have Belair & Associates on board,” stated NAV-TV Vice President, Derek Schmiedl.

Michael Belair, Firm Principal, is already on the road with a NAV-TV sample at Audiolab Car Stereo in Laguna Hills, CA.

“We are excited at the opportunity to work with NAV-TV. With the complexity of vehicles today, having a partner in NAV-TV gives our customers the opportunity to be able to say YES to integration from audio, to back up camera systems, and even to the protection of your vehicle. Having them along with our other vendor partners gives us an opportunity to deliver a complete solution from an integration standpoint, which is a big focus for our company, and with what is happening in our industry today,” stated Rep Principal, Michael Belair.

Belair & Associates began representing NAV-TV in Southern California on December 1, 2019. For more information, Belair & Associates may be reached at 714-376-6231, or via email at mikeb@belairandassociates.com

Visit navtv.com for more.

Fortin Intros New EVO 9 SERIES LoRa SST 2-Way RF Solutions

Posted on December 3, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Fortin.

BOUCHERVILLE, QUEBEC (12.04.2019) – Fortin has introduced its new ultra-long-range EVO 9 SERIES 2-way RF solutions.

The EVO 9 SERIES has been engineered and designed to ensure responsivity, stability and reliability even under the most extreme conditions. Based on a solid 2-way LoRa SST (Spread-Spectrum) FM 900 MHz Technology, the platform provides a fully responsive control experience covering up to 6,000 feet (2 km) of urban range.

Each of the 9 SERIES devices is equipped with shock-resistant plastic snaps, stainless steel screws and a custom metallic fastener that reinforce the device’s structure, making it one of its outstanding features.

Every EVO 9 SERIES devices are equipped with a state-of-the-art Anti-Code Grabbing Technology that secures the communication process between the device and the vehicle, thus limiting the possibilities for the vehicle to be stolen using emerging code sniffing technologies. EVO 9 SERIES devices are also equipped with Eco-Connect Technology, which has been developed to maximize battery life for long-range RF devices. The devices will scan for short-range responses before using power to search a wider area if no short-range response is received. The result: the remotes’ battery life is considerably extended.

EVO 9 SERIES’ lineup includes two RF control kits: the RFK942 and the RFK912. The RFK942 RF kit consists of two RM942 4-button remote controllers, an ANT900 Antenna and an antenna cable, while the RFK912 RF kit consists of two RM912 1-button remote controllers, an ANT900 Antenna and an antenna cable.

Fortin Electronic Systems is a world-leading developer and manufacturer of integrated consumer solutions for vehicle control and connectivity.

Visit www.fortin.ca to discover more remote starter, immobilizer bypass and security system solutions or contact us at sales@fortin.ca to receive additional information about our products and solutions.

Raptor Launches Improved Pro Series of Car Audio Products at 2020 CES

Posted on December 3, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged CES, Raptor.

HOLLY HILL, FL (12.04.2019) – Metra Electronics has improved its Raptor car audio accessory line with upgraded products launching at CES. Raptor’s Pro Series product line will feature 15 upgraded fuse holders and distribution blocks to create a unified ecosystem of accessories with fresh appearances and gold plating.

Designed with the installer in mind, the new fuse holders and distribution blocks have a one-tool design model to work exclusively with only 3mm Allen head screws, allowing for an easier installation. Metra has stepped away from the traditional look of the previous generation and is highlighting a unique style for these new Raptor products. With internal screw mounting locations and an improved latching system to secure the cover to the base, the new modern design improves upon both its function and aesthetics. It also provides a better visual of the fuses through the covers.

The ANL, MANL and AGU fuse holders range from 1/0 AWG to 8 AWG, are all 24K gold plated, water-resistant, and work with 3mm Allen screws. The new blocks offer multiple options for the installer from dual ANL and MANL blocks or even 4-position fuse distribution blocks. Raptor provides superior performance at entry-level price points, a mission based upon the belief that “affordable” and “cheap” installation accessories shouldn’t be one and the same.

These new and improved products will be shipping soon and can be seen on display at CES. Additional specifications and part numbers are available in the new 2020 Raptor catalog and Raptor-Online.com, which will be released on January 7, 2020. Metra Electronics will be at CES from January 7-10, 2020, at booth 5211 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center showcasing their new products from their 12volt brands and at booth 11435 in the Central Hall with Metra Home Theater Group.

Visit metraonline.com for more.

Alpine X-Perience Added to Black Friday Event at Extreme Car Audio

Posted on December 2, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Alpine.

MARRERO, LA (12.03.2019) – It was a special Black Friday at Extreme Car Audio in Marrero LA on Friday, November 29th. An Alpine X-Perience event added to the Extreme Car Audio Black Friday promotion. Alpine‘s Jimmy Chauffe arrived with the Alpine X-Perience Tundra, tent and promo items for Ace Truong’s event. Truong, Extreme Car Audio owner, told 12volt News

“We had a terrific day… certainly more than 50 customers came into the store and sales were very strong. We had great Alpine specials and gave away a pair of Alpine 6×9 speakers every hour with a drawing. The 6 PM Grand Prize drawing was for an Alpine iLX-650. James Thibodaux was the very happy winner. We offered great food including gumbo for all. Jimmy was great and worked with customers and demo’ed the Tundra all day. One of our customer’s Ford F150, loaded with Alpine, got a lot of attention too. This was our third Alpine X-Perience event and we truly appreciate Alpine‘s commitment and support of independent 12volt retailers. The Alpine X-Perience event promo is terrific for driving consumer awareness and business for specialty 12volt retailers.”

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

SEMA Expands High School Build Program

Posted on December 2, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

The SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program is expanding to 10 builds for the 2019–2020 school year. As partners in this program, 10 high-school auto-shop classes will customize third-generation Toyota 4Runners and Jeep Wrangler TJs. The program aims to bridge the gap between industry and auto-shop students to foster the next generation of hobbyists and the automotive aftermarket workforce.

Through this hands-on build program, students will expand their real-world auto-tech skills by working with aftermarket products while being introduced to a new career path to pursue their passion for customization. The builds will begin in January, and students will complete their builds by the end of the school year.

Comstock High School was one of five high schools that participated in the 2019 SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program. The students built an ’04 Jeep Wrangler Sahara.

Aftermarket companies can support this effort through parts donations and/or mentorship opportunities. Sponsors will have their product(s) installed on the vehicle(s) and receive recognition through the build website and in SEMA build promotions.

Sponsoring the SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program is not only giving high-school students a build experience of a lifetime, it’s also allowing them to open their minds to the possibilities of what can be accomplished using aftermarket products.

If you’re interested in supporting one or more of the student vehicle builds, please fill out the product donation form. If you’re interested in mentoring a school, contact SEMA youth engagement programs manager Katie Hurst at: katieh@sema.org

Click here to learn more and check out last year’s builds.

Alpine’s Highly-Anticipated 9-Inch X409-WRA-JL Navigation System is Now Shipping

Posted on November 26, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Alpine.

DETROIT, MI (11.27.2019) – Introducing the 9-Inch X409-WRA-JL Weather-Resistant Navigation System with Off-Road Mode. This mech-less (no CD/DVD) in-dash audio/video/navigation (AVN) system is a direct-fit solution for the new 2018 – Up Jeep Wrangler and 2019 – Up Jeep Gladiator.

Enhancements to the user interface for faster screen transitions, as well as added features based on industry research, has made the X409-WRA-JL an ideal upgrade for the active weekender looking to enhance their adventures.

The X409-WRA-JL is designed for Plug-and-Play installation and includes a vehicle-specific dash bezel and factory-compatible wiring harness to create a direct-fit solution for the dash and integrated operation in the vehicle, so factory features like the volume knob, steering wheel controls, and HVAC system are retained.

Built to handle the toughest of outdoor conditions, the weather-resistant X409-WRA-JL is rated IP53 for protection against dust and ingress. The dash bezel is precisely fitted to house the screen so no water or dust can enter the electronics assembly. The high-visibility screen delivers cleaner, brighter images even when off-roading on rugged terrain.

As many Jeep owners enjoy off-road activities like trail rides, the X409-WRA-JL comes equipped with Off-Road Mode with off-road centric vehicle information like vehicle tilt, tire pressure, optimized camera view, and FunTreks trailhead POI database displayed on the large, 9-inch screen. Drivers can revisit their favorite off-road adventures through Off-Road Trip Recording.

The large, 9-inch screen has a WVGA display, Capacitive Touch, and Swipe Graphical User Interface that’s optimized for in-vehicle smartphone use so drivers can access Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for music, messages, or maps while keeping their eyes on the road. Built-in Bluetooth is also available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Third-party driving maps like Google Maps and Waze are available through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, or in areas that don’t have strong cellphone service, the X409-WRA-JL comes equipped with built-in navigation with Turn-By-Turn and Pinch-to-Zoom maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico with The Latest Map Guarantee.

The X409-WRA-JL retains the factory rear-view camera with three additional camera inputs that can be assigned as a front or side camera. For multiple camera systems, the KCX-C250MC Multi-Camera Selector (sold separately) allows the camera systems to be easily controlled right from the touchscreen.

Display up to eight accessories directly from the touchscreen by adding the optional KAC-001 External Accessory Controller. Assign graphical icons to the accessories for quick identification and control through a pulsed, latched or momentary output.

Audio entertainment sources include a built-in HD Radio Tuner, Pandora via a smartphone, iPod/iPhone music, various music file formats including FLAC / MP3 / WMA / AAC / HE-AAC playback via USB and SiriusXM compatibility (tuner and subscription required).

For even more entertainment options, a “Media” center that matches the factory look is added to the lower, right-hand side of the dash with one HDMI input, dual USB for smartphone access (one device at a time) or charging, and an Aux input.

The X409-WRA-JL is available now at Alpine Authorized retails or online at www.alpine-usa.com through Crutchfield for $2999.95. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.

CRUX Releases New Kit for Select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury Vehicles

Posted on November 26, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged CRUX.

CHATSWORTH, CA (11.27.2019) – CRUX has released a new radio replacement interface with dash kit for select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.

The DKFD-27 facilitates the integration of an after-market radio to enable retention of certain factory features when replacing a factory-installed radio. It also includes a dash kit (double DIN or single DIN with pocket).

Listed below are compatible models:

Key Features:
Retains factory features in select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles while functioning with an aftermarket radio.
Retains factory Aux-Input and Subwoofer (if equipped).
Retains RAP (Retained Accessory Power) feature.
Includes dask kit (double DIN or single DIN with pocket).

Visit cruxinterfacing.com for more.

SSV Works Features New Award-Winning Polaris RZR Overhead Weatherproof Audio Solution at 2020 CES Show

Posted on November 25, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged CES, SSV Works.

OXNARD, CA (11.26.2019) – SSV Works will feature its new, award-winning overhead weatherproof audio solution for two and four seat Polaris RZRs during the 2020 CES Show, held in Las Vegas, Nev. from Jan. 7-10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth N4900. The WP3-RZ3O65 is scheduled to be available early Q1 2020 with an MSRP of $799.99.

During the recent 2019 SEMA Show, the WP3-RZ3O65 won for Best New Powersports Product as well as a 2019 SEMA Global Media Award.

“With these two awards, we couldn’t have asked for a better product launch than this,” said Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Listen to your music via Bluetooth, AM/FM, or Aux-In through four 6.5-inch powersports speakers pumping out 200 watts of internal power with the new rugged SSV Works WP3-RZ3O65. This system also offers the capability to add more speakers and amplifiers by utilizing two additional high level and or low level outputs.”

The WP3-RZ3O65 tucks neatly overhead into the cage tubes of the Polaris RZR allowing great visibility and helmet clearance. The unit also works with both metal and the plastic factory roof option. Installation time is under 30 minutes to both mount and wire, and the rugged UV stable polymer enclosure protects from the harsh elements.

Visit www.SSVWorks.com for more.

NAV-TV Launches Smart-Link Modular Smart Phone Interface

Posted on November 25, 2019 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged NAV-TV.

CORAL SPRINGS, FL (11.26.2019) – NAV-TV Corp. has released the Smart-Link Smartphone Interface. Smart-Link enables the display and control of popular Smartphone content through factory radio touch screen displays, aftermarket radios or monitors.

Smart-Link is a universal and modular interface that can be used as a stand-alone unit connected to any monitor or radio with a composite (yellow RCA) input, or may be connected to a NAV-TV vehicle-specific interface that enables display and touch screen control. When used as a stand-alone unit, the interface may be controlled through the optional Smart-Link Controller or, for use in custom applications, through a 4-wire resistive touch-screen overlay.

Smartphones can be connected to the Smart-Link interface either wirelessly or hardwired. When connected through a wired connection, the Smart-Link provides charging for the connected device. To be compliant with Country or State hands-free laws, the device supports Bluetooth hands-free calling as well as phone dependent voice commands which the included noise-canceling microphone. In-vehicle audio routing is achieved through the factory auxiliary audio port or vehicle dependent auxiliary audio interface.

“NAV-TV pioneered the automotive video integration field over 20 years ago and offers solutions for the vast majority of vehicles on the road today. Rather than reengineering vehicle-specific Smartphone integration offerings, we decided to take a modular approach that allows the addition of Smartphone integration to current NAV-TV products. This approach allows our dealers to stock less inventory while having the ability to support a broad range of vehicle applications,” stated NAV-TV Vice President, Derek Schmiedl.

A video demonstration showing the Smart-Link integrated into a Porsche CDR31 radio is available on NAV-TV’s YouTube channel. In addition to Porsche, vehicle-specific NAV-TV integration offerings that support Smart-Link are also available for the following vehicles: