DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.13.25) – Troy Trepanier was crowned the overall winner of the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish competition with his stunning creation, a 1936 Ford roadster named “Fenderless.” Trepanier won the Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck category and edged out three other class champions — Tim Franklin (Sport Compact/Import Performance), Ron Jones (Off-Road), and Thomas Dickerson (BFGoodrich Young Guns) — to secure the overall title.

Trepanier, a fixture in the custom car world, returned to the top of the industry’s most prestigious builder competition eight years after winning the Battle of the Builders title in 2017. His latest build captivated judges and fans alike at the 2025 SEMA Show with its flawless craftsmanship, balanced design, and innovative engineering.

“It was great to be back in the SEMA Battle of the Builders contest. It has grown a lot since we first won the event eight years ago,” said Trepanier. “We finally had a car worthy of being back in the competition. There were so many great cars this year. Everybody was a winner — the Top 40, Top 12, and especially the final four.”

Completed in January 2025, Fenderless is a completely scratch-built vehicle designed to resemble a 1936 Ford roadster, but with every dimension reworked to achieve ideal proportions as an open-wheel car. Every major component of the project was fabricated in-house at Rad Rides by Troy in Manteno, Ill., including the body, chassis, suspension, and all machined parts.

The car features a 1957 McCullough-supercharged 312-cid Ford Y-block engine, paired with a Bowler 4R70W transmission and quick-change rear axle with torsion bar suspension. The bodywork, paint, and interior were handled entirely by Trepanier’s team, which finished the roadster with a modified Porsche Aventurine Green Metallic color to radiate elegance.

“Trepanier’s vehicle is a testament to the level of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation that define the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA Vice President of Marketing. “This program celebrates the builders who push the boundaries of what’s possible and inspire the next generation of automotive visionaries.”

SEMA Battle of the Builders recognizes the top vehicle builders in the world, celebrating innovation, craftsmanship, and passion within the automotive aftermarket industry. Franklin won Sport Compact/Import Performance with a 1960 Porsche Custom 356 that was in absolutely terrible condition before going through a transformation that resulted in contoured body/rolled rocker panels and a fresh streamlined look. Jones’ Off-Road-winning 1973 VW Thing was created from the ground up with a one-off chromoly long-travel tube chassis and featuring more than 350 machined pieces. Dickerson earned the BFGoodrich Young Guns title with a 1967 Chevrolet C10 that he built on his own with a custom engine bay, glass, headlights, and interior.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition and this year’s winners, visit www.sema.org/botb.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.12.25) – The Ellis Audio Design team made the 955-mile journey from Laurel, MT to Las Vegas to be on the floor at SEMA 2025.

Shawn Ellis, owner, related, “I have been to many CES and SEMA shows. This year we decided to take a group of our team to check out our vendor partners and the action at SEMA 2025. Our team totaled nine people, and eight were attending SEMA for the first time. It was terrific—they were able to meet one-on-one with our supplier members and their team members. Seeing products from so many categories was a great experience for them.”

On Day 1 of SEMA 2025, John Velez with Massive Audio sent an image of the Ellis Audio team in the Massive Audio booth, located prominently in the North Hall. “Ellis Audio is a great dealer in Laurel, MT, and really connects with consumers throughout their marketplace,” Velez shared. “It was terrific to see Shawn bring his team to check out the latest in-person in our booth and explore so many other products and opportunities around SEMA 2025.”

When staff from 12volt Central Studios reached out to Ellis Audio Design, Shawn Ellis answered the phone personally. “Attending this year’s SEMA Show was terrific. I’ve attended 9 of the last 10 SEMA events and CES prior to that. We do much more than just car audio here in Laurel. Our setup includes eight buildings where we handle a wide range of automotive upgrades—motorcycles, side-by-sides, boats, window tint, and many other vehicle-related projects. We’ve been in business since 1982 and really connect with consumers throughout the area. As a brick-and-mortar retailer, we’re known as an audio enthusiast warehouse because we build strong relationships with customers and their families when they visit our store.”

Continuing, Ellis shared, “Massive Audio is a major brand in our store, and one wall is dedicated to showcasing their products. We have a Harley on the showroom floor loaded with Massive Audio gear, along with a neon sign highlighting the Massive Audio brand.”

Concluding, he added, “There were so many categories to check out across the massive LVCC that I—and some of our team members—walked seven miles each day.”

Watch for much more from 12volt Central Studios as we continue to extend the ROI for all from SEMA 2025.

For more, see 12voltnews.com.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.12.25) – SEMA revealed the recipients of its Visionary 8 program recognizing eight rising professionals for their leadership and impact in the automotive aftermarket. Open to SEMA members aged 35 and under, the program raises awareness of rising stars who are on track to change and/or advance the automotive specialty-equipment market. Criteria include having active industry involvement and the demonstrated talent, innovation, integrity, success, and leadership that is needed to become a driver of the industry.  

“This year’s SEMA Visionary 8 have a work ethic and passion for the industry that is truly inspiring,” said Joe Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “We’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and thank them for their energy and fresh perspective that has elevated the aftermarket for the better.”

The 2025 SEMA Visionary 8 honorees are:

Jose Acevedo, Owner/Photographer/Editor, Ace Graphix
Through self-taught skills, a strong creative vision, and a relentless drive to grow, Acevedo became the youngest photographer published in Street Trucks Magazine. He has also landed multiple magazine front covers, earned the role of Editor for OBS Builder’s Guide, and organized his own truck show, “Rio Heat,” a grassroots event that highlights the power of community in South Texas.

Adi Bathla, CEO & Co-founder, Revv
Bathla is a product strategist who has redefined the collision repair space through innovation and integration. As co-founder of Revv, he built a category-defining Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) platform that turns a VIN/estimate into OEM-required calibrations, compliant documentation, and insurer-ready invoices—cutting research time from hours to seconds.

Anna Glennon, Senior Account Executive, Khan Media
Glennon helps brands find their voice and connect with audiences through dynamic storytelling and relationship building. Through her work at Khan Media, she has expanded opportunities for both established companies and emerging creators, helping to shape the next generation of industry communication.

Payton Matlock, OEM Specialist & New Business Developer, Transfer Flow, Inc.
Matlock combines technical expertise with business insight to oversee full-cycle OEM projects from concept to production. Her ability to manage complex programs, support regulatory compliance, and drive co-branded product success has positioned her as a trusted partner for OEM innovation.

Jack Reusch, Head Coach, Texas Drift Academy
Reusch was instrumental in the rapid growth of Texas Drift Academy, transforming the organization’s student experience and business model through new training strategies and curriculum offerings. He also established the first student internship program with Formula Drift, giving students the opportunity to gain experience at the highest level of professional drifting.

Ryan Rutledge, Director of Innovation, Air Lift Company
Throughout his career, Rutledge developed multiple new electronic control systems for active suspension using machine learning algorithms to offer precise control while driving, on any vehicle, with any configuration. Interested in ADAS, he also actively collaborates with SEMA to advance industry understanding of how aftermarket products can integrate with advanced driver assistance systems.

Kasey Saltness, Event and Engagement Specialist, QA1
A connector of people and brands, Saltness has transformed QA1’s digital and event presence through innovative engagement strategies. From launching influencer programs to organizing national cruise events, she continues to build meaningful connections that strengthen the automotive community.

Emma Sauve, Creative Director, Mobsteel
A photographer and videographer who blends artistry with authenticity, Sauve has successfully shaped the visual identity of Mobsteel and Detroit Steel Wheel. Her work has been featured in major industry publications and continues to capture the craftsmanship and culture that define the automotive aftermarket.

Entrepreneurship, insight, integrity, responsibility, and demonstrated skill all weighed heavily in the judges’ decision-making process. Nominations for next year’s SEMA Visionary 8 will open in Summer 2026.   

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

SEATTLE, WA (11.11.25) – Ladies and gentlemen it is training time.

November 17th to 20th

Reliable Product Marketing will be hosting 5 trainings this year. 4 nights of food, fun and freebies and a morning training for those that can’t stay out too late!

We will be going over ALL THINGS My Firstech so this training is for the entire store!

Learn about new products like
New DRONE asset tracker
Momento’s XC Updates and tech tricks!
New Idata link remote start solutions
and much much more!
You will also learn the latest install tips and tricks straight from the MyFirstech training centers in Washington and Texas
We are holding FIVE trainings
All evening trainings are 6:00 to 9 pm
But we have added a morning training in Lodi Ca from 9am to 12 am

We ask that you PLEASE plan to attend! Schedule light that afternoon and plan on closing early so you can be there on time. Trainings are an important part of our industry and if you don’t support them our vendors will stop supporting you.
Please plan to attend!

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Monday November 17th
Sacramento/Natomas, CA
Black Bear Diner

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Tuesday November 18th
Fresno, CA
Black Bear Diner

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Wednesday November 19th
Lodi, CA
Residence Inn
9 am – 12 pm
AND
Walnut Creek, CA
Black Bear Diner

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Thursday November 20th
Milpitas, CA
Black Bear Diner

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Space is limited
For more information and to RSVP
Click the link below

Please RSVP here

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.10.25) – Canadian distributor GEMSEN once again showed its dedication to supporting and energizing its dealer network by bringing over 20 Canadian dealers to this year’s SEMA Show.

The annual automotive extravaganza proved to be an unforgettable experience, giving dealers the chance to experience first-hand the latest innovations and new product launches from the world’s leading brands.

GEMSEN maximized the learning experience and organized exclusive guided booth tours with all their vendors, ensuring that attending dealers got up-close insights into the newest technology, product trends, and installation solutions shaping the 12-volt industry. From high-performance audio systems to cutting-edge vehicle integration tools, the tours gave Canadian retailers a true pulse on what’s next for the aftermarket.

Adding to the excitement, GEMSEN hosted their annual KICKER Champion Dealer celebration dinner Wednesday night at the iconic Palms Restaurant. The event featured a special guest of honor — Steve Irby, Founder of KICKER, along with VP Jay Ralston International Sales Manager Aziz Masri. Their presence underscored the strong partnership between GEMSEN and KICKER, and their shared commitment to the success of Canadian dealers.

“SEMA is such a great experience every year,” said Mike Danbrook of GEMSEN. “We’ve been bringing our dealers here for over 10 years now, and it just keeps getting better. It’s not just about seeing new products — it’s about spending time with our dealer partners and the brands we work with. Getting to share ideas, have real conversations, and enjoy the energy of the show together is what makes it so special.”

The energy, innovation, and camaraderie of the event perfectly reflected GEMSEN’s ongoing mission — to bring the best opportunities, products, and experiences to its loyal dealer network.

For more see gemsen.com.

MIDDLETOWN, CT (11.10.25) — GoFast Solutions, the Northeast’s premier 12-volt and automotive aftermarket distributor, is proud to announce that it has been named the exclusive distributor for Jensen Mobile Audio in New England and Upstate New York. 

This new partnership brings one of the industry’s most historic and innovative mobile audio brands under the GoFast banner, giving dealers across the region access to Jensen’s complete lineup of multimedia receivers, amplifiers, and speakers — all backed by an industry-leading 5-year warranty. 

A Century of Innovation and Trust 

Jensen’s roots date back to 1915, when company founder Peter Jensen co-invented the world’s first loudspeaker, known as the Magnavox. In the decades since, Jensen has become synonymous with groundbreaking advancements in sound technology and in-car entertainment. 

Today, Jensen Mobile Audio continues that tradition of excellence with products engineered for performance, reliability, and innovation — all designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and convenience for modern drivers. 

Backed by Global Strength 

In 2015, Jensen Mobile Audio became part of Namsung America, a subsidiary of Namsung Corporation, a publicly traded electronics manufacturer based in Seoul, South Korea. With more than 50 years of experience designing and distributing consumer electronics worldwide, Namsung ensures that Jensen remains on the forefront of mobile audio and video technology. 

GoFast Dealers Gain Exclusive Advantage 

As the exclusive Jensen distributor for the region, GoFast Solutions will provide dealers with: 

• Full access to the Jensen product lineup
• Exclusive 5-year warranty protection — the longest in the industry
• Competitive pricing and healthy dealer margins
• Comprehensive marketing, merchandising, and training support
• Fast, reliable delivery from GoFast’s Middletown, CT warehouse

“Jensen is one of the most recognized and trusted names in mobile audio, and we’re thrilled to bring this legacy brand exclusively to our dealers in New England and Upstate New York,” said Bob Hernandez, VP of Sales at GoFast Solutions. “The combination of innovation, performance, and an unmatched 5-year warranty makes Jensen an incredible opportunity for our retail partners.”

Visit www.GoFst.com for more.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.06.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced the Top 40 builders in the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition. Battle of the Builders is the aftermarket industry’s ultimate vehicle competition, and the program is celebrating 12 years of providing SEMA Show builders a platform to showcase their craftsmanship and skills to a worldwide audience.

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The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish Top 40 are (by category):

HOT ROD/HOT ROD TRUCK
Jason Berland — 1968 Chevrolet C10
Randy Borcherding — 1968 Plymouth Road Runner
Willie Davis — 1957 Chevrolet Truck
Jonathan Goolsby — 1966 Chevrolet C10 Step Side
Troy Gudgel — 1959 Chevrolet Impala
Kyle Kuhnhausen — 1966 Chevrolet Corvette
Jason Smith — 1970 Dodge Challenger
Joshua Sanders — 1970 Dodge Charger
Troy Trepanier —1936 Ford Roadster
Paul VanNus — 1969 Ford Torino

SPORT COMPACT/IMPORT PERFORMANCE
Brian Dilley — 1965 ISO Rivolta
Jack Diramarian — 1970 Porsche 911
Tim Franklin — 1960 Porsche Custom 356
David Guadagnoli — 1967 Ford GT 40 MKIV
Phil Nguyen — 1997 Nissan Skyline GTR
Alyxzander Prohaska — 1988 Toyota AE86 Corolla
Javier Reyna — 1997 Ferrari F355
Phillip Tieu — 2012 Porsche 911
John Sarkisyan — 1971 Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman
John Sarkisyan — 2019 Tesla Model 3 “300SL”

OFF-ROAD
Bryce Adams — 1972 Chevrolet K5 Blazer
Tyler Adams — 1985 Chevrolet K10
James Amerson — 1946 Dodge Power Wagon
Cody Dabney — 1973 International Scout
Michael Dascoli — 1969 International Scout
Woody Ferrebee — 1966 Ford Bronco
Ron Jones — 1973 VW Thing
Jason Noel — 1959 Ford F100
Garth Redifer — 1974 Ford F250 Crew Cab
Chris Von Ritter — 1968 Ford Bronco

YOUNG GUNS
Tyler Adams — 1972 Chevrolet Blazer
Scott Anderson — 1961 Chevrolet Impala
Christopher Cairo — 1967 Ford Mustang
Cameron Cocalis — 1988 BMW E30 325i
Dustyn Dell — 1969 Chevrolet C10
Thomas Dickerson — 1967 Chevrolet C10
Justin Fields — 1972 Chevrolet C10
Bennett Ford Lisenby — 1968 Ford F250
Roberto Munoz — 1938 Chevrolet Canopy Express
Rockford Smith — 1976 Chevrolet K10

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish Top 12 will be announced in the Battle of the Builders Stage, North Hall (Booth #10168) on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 3:30 p.m.

Visit www.semashow.com or www.sema.org for more.

 SEATTLE, WA (11.05.25) – Firstech, makers of DroneMobile connected car and GPS tracking solutions, today announced its “DroneMobile Fleet Certified Dealer” program. This invite-only initiative will focus on equipping the top DroneMobile retailers in North America with critical resources to capture incremental revenue growth in the rapidly expanding commercial fleet tracking market. 

The global fleet tracking market is projected to reach over $60 billion by 2030, yet the crucial 12-volt automotive retail channel has historically been left out of this high-value opportunity by complex enterprise solutions. Firstech aims to change that with the DroneMobile Fleet Certified program by positioning selected dealers as fleet experts with the brand’s complete lineup of vehicle security, tracking, and camera technologies. 

 DroneMobile Fleet Certified dealers will also gain exclusive access to the following advantages: 

1. Sales Assistance – Dedicated sales assistance with deal registration for commercial accounts. 

2. Expert Training – Virtual and hands-on sales and installer training focused on selling DroneMobile tracking solutions to fleets. 

3. Priority Access to Product – Certified Fleet dealers will get early access to new DroneMobile products, such as the newly announced Drone XT GPS Tracker. 

4. Recurring Monthly Revenue – Monthly payouts for each DroneMobile device sold and installed for as long as it remains active. 

5. Sponsored Listing on DroneMobile.com – Featured listing on the DroneMobile dealer locator to drive commercial leads directly to Certified Fleet dealers. 

6. Regional Advertising Support – Firstech will launch targeted ads for DroneMobile Fleet solutions in markets where Certified Fleet dealers are present. 

As part of the DroneMobile Fleet Certified Dealer program, participating dealers must agree to the company’s expanded requirements, including, but not limited to, MAP/MSRP pricing adherence and completion of required training materials. 

At launch, DroneMobile Fleet Certified dealers will be hand-selected by the Firstech team. Invitations will be sent out in mid-November 2025, following the conclusion of SEMA in Las Vegas. 

Dealers who are interested in learning more about DroneMobile for Fleet and other DroneMobile connected car solutions can visit www.dronefleet.com. 

HOLLY HILL, FL (11.05.25) – Metra Electronics will showcase an all-new series of data interfaces with Steering Wheel Control (SWC) at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4th to 7th at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees can visit Metra’s booth, #10439 in the North Hall, to see these innovative solutions designed to simplify radio replacement and preserve essential OEM features. These new data interfaces provide a cost-effective solution for installers to retain factory steering wheel controls and other key vehicle functions that are typically lost during head unit upgrades.

Engineered for broad compatibility across a wide variety of radio brands and models, these interfaces are ideal for integrating radios purchased from online retailers. They have a small footprint, retain steering wheel audio controls with easy-to-set DIP switch programming, provide 12-volt accessory power, NAV outputs (parking brake, reverse, and speed sense), and have Type-C USB updatability for future enhancements. New vehicle applications include:

• Select 2014-2022 Chrysler (MET-CH6)
• Select 2005-2018 Chrysler (MET-CH14)
• Select 2005-2014 Ford (MET-FD4)
• Select 2001-2014 Toyota (MET-TY3)

Visit MetraOnline.com to see our Vehicle Fit Guide for up-to-date vehicle-specific applications and for more product information.

TEMPE, AZ (11.04.25) – Rockford Fosgate proudly unveils its new PUNCH Speaker Line, the latest evolution of the brand’s most iconic series. Featuring three new speaker lines engineered for precision, performance, and fitment-focused design, the multi-configuration collection will make its exclusive debut at SEMA 2025.

The new PUNCH lineup includes the P1, P2, and P3 Series, each developed for effortless installation and optimized for today’s vehicles. Every model feature Rockford Fosgate’s Auto Fit Architecture™, providing a solution-driven fit across a multitude of vehicle platforms, regardless of make or model. The exclusive design incorporates new frames, optimized mounting holes, and a removable motor cover to ensure seamless integration and superior performance. The speakers are offered in a wide range of sizes, from 2.5 inches to 6×9, accommodating any desired soundstage.

“Our PUNCH line has been our proud legacy line, and going into 2026, we wanted to make sure we could provide a whole new upgrade version to continue being the innovative provider of audio systems,” said Wayne Connolly, Director of New Product Development at Rockford Fosgate. “The new PUNCH line was designed and engineered to make speaker upgrades simple and more user-friendly for all, whether you’re a daily driver or an auto enthusiast looking to build your dream build. We’re excited to continue redefining car audio one speaker at a time.” 

Available through Authorized Rockford Fosgate retailers, the new PUNCH incorporates advanced proprietary technologies for enhanced performance. Each speaker features VAST 2.0™ (Vertical Attached Surround Technique), delivering up to a 25% increase in cone area for maximum output and dynamic, powerful sound. Coaxial drivers include Tru-Sight™ tweeter technology, ensuring cleaner, louder, and more accurate high-frequency production, the hallmark of Rockford Fosgate’s signature sound. Glass fiber baskets ensure durability and complement the Santoprene® surrounds and Nomex® spiders providing long-lasting strength and consistent performance under any condition.

Engineered to fit and built to perform, these next-generation speakers embody reliability and flexibility for nearly any vehicle configuration. The line includes three distinct speaker tiers.

P1 (3-Way Coaxial): These full-range coaxial speakers are the ideal direct replacement for stock speakers in vehicles that don’t use separate tweeters. Easy to install with zero to minimal modification, they deliver a big leap in sound clarity and “punch” over factory speakers, no extra parts needed.

P2 (2-Way Convertible): These convertible speakers offer true versatility. Use them as coaxial for a fast drop-in upgrade or break them out into a separate tweeter/midrange setup for enhanced imaging and staging. Ideal for vehicles with factory tweeter locations (like A-pillars or dash corners) that can benefit from a cleaner, more dynamic front stage.

P3 (3-Way Component): Designed for vehicles with multi-speaker front stages (factory 3-way systems or higher-end trims). For serious sound seekers, these 3-way component systems bring out every detail in your music with dedicated tweeters, midranges, and woofers. Best for vehicles with existing 3-way setups or for enthusiasts building a custom front stage from the ground up.

“For over 45 years, we’ve continued to redefine the world of audio systems and build lasting, high-performing, and uncompromising systems from the bottom up to bring consumers the best setup for their vehicles of all sizes and needs,” said Zach Luke, President of Rockford Fosgate. “With PUNCH, we’re revolutionizing the adaptability of sound systems, with PUNCH fitting in 100’s of modern vehicles in the market. Rockford Fosgate’s legacy lies in PUNCH, and we felt there was no better time and place to make the exclusive debut than SEMA.” 

SEMA 2025 attendees can have a first look at the new PUNCH collection at Rockford Fosgate’s booth located in the North Hall, #10509. The complete PUNCH speaker line will be available Q1 2026.

Visit rockfordfosgate.com for more.