DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.15.24) – The second decade of the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers, the aftermarket industry’s ultimate vehicle competition, got underway with Noah Alexander winning the contest with his ’68 Dodge Charger. Alexander won the Hot Rod/ Hot Rod Truck category and edged out the other class champions – Bruce Yarnell’s ’65 Aston Martin DB5 (Sport Compact/Import Performance), Rob Lindsay’s ’49 Willys Pickup (4-Wheel Drive & Off-Road), and Connor McElvain’s ’69 Datsun 2000 Roadster (Young Guns) – to secure the overall title.

The victory was a testament to the craftsmanship and fabrication skills of Alexander and the team at Classic Car Studio in St. Louis, Mo., whose ’68 Dodge Charger faced off against 171 other entries at the 2024 SEMA Show.

“The competition from this year’s Battle of the Builders was intense, and to come away with a win is something our shop will never forget,” said Alexander. “Some of the people we look up to the most in the industry have won this award, so to appear alongside those people is really incredible.”

The winning build came to fruition following a chance meeting with the car’s owner, Ed Ganzinotti, in the checkout line at a Barrett-Jackson auction six years ago. After owning the car for 20 years, Ganzinotti, a Houston native, reached out to Alexander to spruce up the Charger.

“We were going to fix some paint issues, do an interior refresh, and rebuild the engine. We said, ‘Ed, before we start, come to our shop, see what we’re capable of, and become somewhat of a regular as we work on this build,’ ” said Alexander. After visiting the shop, Ganzinotti commissioned the team to build him “the baddest Charger out there.”

The ’68 Dodge Charger features original sheetmetal that was refined with sharpened body lines, a relocated wheelbase, shaved drip rails, flush-mounted glass, custom hood and trunk skins, and a bespoke belly pan. Built on an altered wheelbase Roadster Shop chassis, all suspension components were body-worked and painted.

The car is powered by the original 440-cid Dick Landy engine with eight-stack fuel injection and a deburred, smoothed block. Inside the vehicle, a custom dash features one-off milled bezels, unique seats and door panels, and a package tray with Missouri black walnut accents.

“The best part about the build is that it has incredible drop-down lines from the factory, so we wanted to keep that intact. We set out to modify as much as possible while being subtle and keeping it timeless,” said Alexander. “It’s one of those cars where you have to step back to appreciate everything. There’s lots of crazy metalwork on there, but we wanted to keep it looking like a Charger. It’s a fully functional, nice driving car.”

To learn more about SEMA Battle of the Builders and this year’s finalists, visit www.semabotb.com.

BROOKLYN, NY (11.14.24) – The Proline Car Stereo Utica Avenue second floor meeting room was filled Tuesday night November 12th for a very detailed Kenwood Sales training meeting. Morris Hartman, Team Progressive area Kenwood representative, put the meeting together.

Sister Company, Brooklyn Car Audio, also had their staff members in the house. The Proline Car Stereo meeting room is maxed out with large video screens and multifunction connectivity options.

Hartman related “There were 18 staff members seated as Kelvin Rivera, Kenwood East Coast trainer, was on the screen and presented the training basics as I was able to interact with him to engage all in the audience. Store owners, Will Sullivan and Shef Sadik, are also in the house and food was supplied to enjoy sandwiches, salads, and desserts.

“Kelvin did a terrific job with his engaging presentation. The Kenwood product line covers so many product categories that have features-rich for consumers-behind the wheel, on a bide or in a boat, there is so much to learn. Following the Kenwood meeting our sales teams are ready to connect customers with Kenwood products” Sadik relayed.

Visit prolinenyc.com for more.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.14.24) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced the recipients of its Visionary 8 honor program, recognizing rising stars who are making a positive impact within the automotive aftermarket.

New for 2024, the SEMA Visionary 8 program honors eight young professionals aged 35 and under 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 honorees have a passion for the industry and a work ethic that is truly inspiring,” said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Jose Escobar. “We are proud to recognize their fresh perspectives, dedication to personal advancement, and out-of-the-box thinking that is pushing the industry forward.”

Each Visionary 8 recipient was recognized at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and will be featured in an in-depth article in an upcoming issue of SEMA magazine.

The 2024 SEMA Visionary 8 are:
Cavan Cameron, Car Designer and Student, Horizon Motorsports
Joe Gregory, Project Engineer-TrailFX, LKQ Specialty Product Group
Nicole Hamilton, Director of Marketing, Engaged Media
Zack Hampton, Owner, Chromotize
Melanie Henry, Communications and Traffic Manager, Martin & Company Advertising
Solomon Lunger, Founder, Solos MFG
Kevin Sayo, Founder, Dongar Technologies LLC
Dan Ziegler, Business Partner Integration Manager, Turn 14 Distribution
“I’m honored. I’ve never won anything like this before,” said Hamilton. “This is a huge accomplishment for me and I’m very excited for it.”

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 of 2025.  

Visit www.sema.org for more.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.13.24) – The 2024 SEMA Show was a major success, drawing attention from across the automotive industry for its showcase of new innovations and product launches. Manufacturers seized the opportunity to introduce their latest technologies and offerings, setting the stage for trends in the year ahead. Industry professionals were able to experience these cutting-edge products firsthand, gaining valuable insights and networking in the vibrant setting of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The event solidified its status as the premier platform for automotive advancements, creating a dedicated space where industry leaders and businesses could connect and inspire for the year ahead.

Relive the highlights of the 2024 SEMA Show through recap videos of the inaugural SEMA Live livestream, which offered viewers around the world unprecedented, up-close access to the show floor.

Watch the SEMA Live recap videos on the SEMA Show YouTube, and see below for the Show Day 4 video. Want to relive the SEMA Show all year long? Visit semagear.com to stock up on your favorite designs from this year’s event! Free shipping on orders over $100 (restrictions may apply).

MANCHESTER, CN (11.13.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers opens in Manchester, marking the third Connecticut location for the rapidly expanding brand.

Gregory Nussbaum, an experienced business development professional with a passion for the automotive industry, owns and operates Tint World Manchester. His location will provide daily commuters, road trippers and passionate automotive enthusiasts premium window tint solutions, custom audio upgrades, aftermarket performance services, security and safety enhancements and more.

“Manchester and its surrounding towns are a perfect fit for Tint World’s services,” Nussbaum said. “Events like the annual Cruisin’ on Main Street demonstrate a passion for automobiles in the area that matches my own, and our world-class tinting, paint protection and security upgrades will help families extend the life of their transportation. Tint World’s stellar reputation, extensive catalogue of automotive solutions and smooth onboarding made them the easy choice for me, and I’m excited to be a part of bringing the brand to drivers in the area.”

Nussbaum’s passion for cars began with his father, who introduced him to car shows and taught him how to drive a manual. This early exposure fueled a lifelong enthusiasm, leading him to join car clubs, organize rallies, and work in the automotive industry.

“We’re identifying new markets every day, and this third location in Connecticut serves to highlight the growing desire for the premium automotive aftermarket solutions we provide,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Drivers today want their vehicles to last, and quality-focused individuals want to personalize their vehicles with the very best upgrades. Gregory is a welcome addition to our family and the ideal owner to answer this demand in Manchester. I’m confident his professional business background and passion for cars will ensure customers receive the best service, and we’re eager to see his success at Tint World Manchester.”

Tint World Manchester is located at 29 Pavilions Dr, Manchester, Connecticut 06042 and serves drivers in Manchester, Glastonbury, Bolton, Vernon, South Windsor, Hartford and East Hartford.

To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Manchester, call (860) 423-6616 or visit the store online.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.11.24) – Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh, an automotive restyling shop in Pittsburgh, Pa., is the winner of the 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, a competition that raises awareness of the customization of new-model vehicles. Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh won the award for its accessory package for the 2024 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid.

Held at the SEMA Show by the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), a SEMA council, the competition challenges automotive restylers to create and install an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The main driver of the program is to show fellow restylers, dealers, and accessory manufacturers the value of designing and offering a marketable package rather than a “one-time” vehicle.

The winning vehicle is voted on by a panel of judges based on four criteria: marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity, and profitability.

“The aftermarket gives the ability for people to have options, and it doesn’t have to be extremely expensive and it can be unique,” said PRO Chair Colby McLaughlin. “Classic Soft Trim created a unique package with the branding ‘northern lights’ that really carried throughout the whole build. The judges liked the overlanding aspect, but it also wasn’t so hardcore for somebody who just wants a cool look on their vehicle.”

The 2024 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid includes:
Alea Leather Interior-Northern Lights
Alea Carbon Fiber Heating Pads
Ironman 4×4 Uber Lite Rooftop Tent
Ironman 4×4 2” ATS Suspension Lift Kit
Ironman 4×4 Front Bumper Guard
Ironman 4×4 Atlas Roof Rack Cross Bars
Ironman 4×4 7” Scope Driving Lights
Ironman 4×4 7” Scope Driving Light Covers (Amber)
Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T Tires (4)
Enkei Overlander Wheels (4)
SeatbeltPlanet Reweb Seatbelts – Lime Green
Trim Illusion Mirror & Door Handle Caps
XK Glow LED Undercar Lights
VOXX 10” Smart TV Seatback System
Llumar Driver & Passenger Front Window Tint
TSS Roof & Accents Wrap & Badges

“This award goes to my team, the vendors that helped us along the way, and the dealership that gave us this car. It’s been a blast,” said Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh owner Ray Bedner.

Auto Trim Restyling from Ballwin, Mo, won the PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award, as voted by SEMA Showgoers. Auto Trim Restyling customized a 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser LC250 that showcased accessories from Avery Dennison, Method Race Wheels, Nitto, ORACLE Lighting, Rigid Industries, Westcott Designs, and WheelPros.

Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Auto Trim Design of Utah (2024 Hyundai Santa Fe), Automotive Concepts (2024 Chevrolet Silverado), Keystone Styling (2024 Ford F150), and MARS of Billings (2024 Ford Bronco).

For information on the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), visit SEMA.org/PRO.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.08.24) – Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh, an automotive restyling shop in Pittsburgh, Pa., is the winner of the 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, a competition that raises awareness of the customization of new-model vehicles. Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh won the award for its accessory package for the 2024 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid.

Held at the SEMA Show by the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), a SEMA council, the competition challenges automotive restylers to create and install an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The main driver of the program is to show fellow restylers, dealers, and accessory manufacturers the value of designing and offering a marketable package rather than a “one-time” vehicle.

The winning vehicle is voted on by a panel of judges based on four criteria: marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity, and profitability.

“The aftermarket gives the ability for people to have options, and it doesn’t have to be extremely expensive and it can be unique,” said PRO Chair Colby McLaughlin. “Classic Soft Trim created a unique package with the branding ‘northern lights’ that really carried throughout the whole build. The judges liked the overlanding aspect, but it also wasn’t so hardcore for somebody who just wants a cool look on their vehicle.”

The 2024 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid includes:
Alea Leather Interior-Northern Lights
Alea Carbon Fiber Heating Pads
Ironman 4×4 Uber Lite Rooftop Tent
Ironman 4×4 2” ATS Suspension Lift Kit
Ironman 4×4 Front Bumper Guard
Ironman 4×4 Atlas Roof Rack Cross Bars
Ironman 4×4 7” Scope Driving Lights
Ironman 4×4 7” Scope Driving Light Covers (Amber)
Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T Tires (4)
Enkei Overlander Wheels (4)
SeatbeltPlanet Reweb Seatbelts – Lime Green
Trim Illusion Mirror & Door Handle Caps
XK Glow LED Undercar Lights
VOXX 10” Smart TV Seatback System
Llumar Driver & Passenger Front Window Tint
TSS Roof & Accents Wrap & Badges

“This award goes to my team, the vendors that helped us along the way, and the dealership that gave us this car. It’s been a blast,” said Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh owner Ray Bedner.

Auto Trim Restyling from Ballwin, Mo, won the PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award, as voted by SEMA Showgoers. Auto Trim Restyling customized a 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser LC250 that showcased accessories from Avery Dennison, Method Race Wheels, Nitto, ORACLE Lighting, Rigid Industries, Westcott Designs, and WheelPros.

Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Auto Trim Design of Utah (2024 Hyundai Santa Fe), Automotive Concepts (2024 Chevrolet Silverado), Keystone Styling (2024 Ford F150), and MARS of Billings (2024 Ford Bronco).

For information on the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), visit SEMA.org/PRO.

HOLLY HILL, FL (11.08.24) – Install Bay by Metra Electronics will display new additions to its comprehensive collection of professional installation products at SEMA, November 5th to 8th at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Visitors can see these new products in Metra’s main booth, #10439, in the North Hall and at its off-roading and powersports booth, #24743, in the Central Hall. The brand will debut a new 120 series SB connector kit, flush mount USB type-C charging socket, a level controller with voltmeter, extension cables, cable management clamp sets, window tint installation tools, and more.

120 Series SB Connector Kit
The SB120-G is a gray connector housing kit, ideal for use on battery or charger applications, that provides a quick disconnect for power distribution systems. It is designed using reliable SB flat-wiping
contact technology so that the contacts wipe or slide against each other during connection and disconnection, minimizing the build-up of any non-conductive deposits on the contacts themselves. The mated housings are color-matched for easy identification of plug and receptacle connectors.

Flush Mount USB Type-C Charging Socket
The IBR142 socket provides fast charging for smartphones, tablets, and other devices with a Type-C port. The PD3.0 power supply standard ensures a faster battery charge than traditional USB chargers and prevents devices from draining while in use. It can be installed by mounting it within a port in the vehicle’s dash or center console or mounting it to the dash surface with the supplied flush-mount bracket. This socket features weather-resistant components, including a protective cover and a pre-wired mini-ATC fuse holder, making it an ideal solution for marine applications.

Level Controller with Voltmeter
The IBR143 is a level controller with a built-in voltmeter that prevents damage to a vehicle’s audio equipment. It combines a power switch, bass knob, and voltmeter, making it easy to adjust the bass level and consistently monitor amplifier voltage to avoid drops or spikes. This unit offers remote gain control, a
rotary pushable ON/OFF switch, and a digital voltmeter display.

Flush Mount USB 4.0 Type-C Extension Cables
Available in 1-meter (IBR144) or 1-foot (IBR145) lengths, Install Bay’s new USB 4.0 Type-C extension cables can be installed by feeding through a port in the dash or by mounting beneath the dash with the supplied flush-mount bracket to easily connect USB-C devices. USB 4.0 is the latest specification of USB, offering data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps to ensure reliable CarPlay and Android™ audio performance.

100-Piece Modular Cable Management Clamp Sets
The Install Bay has two new modular cable management clamp sets in 8GA to 4GA (IBCTKIT75) or 4GA to 1/0GA (IBCTKIT100). These cable clamp sets make it easy for installers to secure and organize wiring for show-quality audio installations. The included cable clamps feature a unique dovetail click-lock design that attaches single or bundled wires to surfaces and allows multiple clamps to be assembled in creative configurations, keeping wires evenly spaced in straight runs or around corners.

Window Tint, PPF, Vinyl, and Film Installation Tools
New hard cards and specialized scrubbing tools for tint and film installers will be at SEMA. The cherry suede blade tool (GT2097-4) and lemon suede blade tool (GT2096-4) are multipurpose card-shaped installation tools with both hard and soft edges. They each offer their own level of flexibility and contour to surfaces to smooth bumps and bubbles from materials. The GT2003PLT is a platinum easy-reach hard card designed to reach difficult corners. The tint installer’s scrubber tool, the GT209, has a 15-inch handle that extends its scrub pad, allowing installers to scrub the lower windshield and other hard-to-reach areas. The scrub-it blue pad (GT2120B) is an ergonomic scrubbing tool that attaches to an installer’s hand with an included hook-and-loop style strap for easier scrubbing of stubborn glue and contaminants.

The Install Bay’s new products also include UV-stable interior protection tape, bulk roll black speaker acoustic grille cloth ideal for custom fabrication and speaker grille repair, and more. Additional product information is available at theInstallBay.com

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.07.24) – QA1 was named SEMA Manufacturer of the Year and Keystone Automotive was named SEMA Channel Partner of the Year at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Both companies were recognized at today’s SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, which celebrated their outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry over the past year.

“We are proud to honor QA1 and Keystone Automotive for their relentless dedication to advancing the industry,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “It takes hard work to drive meaningful change, and these companies have exemplified the teamwork, innovation, and service needed to propel the industry forward.”

QA1 is an industry leader in high-performance suspension and driveline for the automotive aftermarket. From individual shock absorbers to suspension systems for entire vehicles, they are dedicated to designing and producing high-quality, cost-effective solutions across several markets. QA1’s commitment to providing customers with high-quality product data, a passion for pushing boundaries and setting new standards, and investing in their employees through professional development opportunities are what made them the ideal recipient of this year’s award. Visit them and learn more about their products at the SEMA Show in Central Hall, booth #21357.

Keystone Automotive is a leading distributor and marketer of specialty automotive equipment and accessories, serving the diverse interests and needs of auto enthusiasts. With eight warehouses and multiple cross docks supported by their own fleet of trucks, their distribution network is second to none. The Channel Partner of the Year Award recognizes Keystone’s ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements, embracing new technologies and trends, and investing in cutting-edge logistics and inventory management systems that have revolutionized the way aftermarket parts are distributed, ensuring that customers receive timely and accurate deliveries. Visit them at the SEMA Show in Central Hall, booth #21249.

QA1 and Keystone Automotive are among the more than 2,400 exhibiting companies at the 2024 SEMA Show. Taking place Nov. 5-8, 2024, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show is the ultimate trade show for aftermarket professionals to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends, and develop essential skills.

For more information, visit SEMAShow.com.

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.07.24) – Axxess by Metra Electronics will introduce new vehicle-specific audio integration interfaces that utilize Bluetooth wireless technology for personalization settings at this year’s SEMA Show. These new products are designed for use when installing aftermarket radios and include two interfaces that retain OnStar, three new options from Axxess’s Total Control series, and more. These new audio integrations will be displayed from November 5th to 8th at the Las Vegas Convention Center at Metra’s main booth, #10439, in the North Hall.

• Lexus/Toyota 2002-2019 SWC/wireless Total Control interface (AXTC-TY1BT)
• Toyota 2018-2024 SWC/wireless Total Control interface (AXTC-TY2BT)
• Mazda 2007-2015 SWC/wireless Total Control interface (AXTC-MZ1BT)
• GM 2014-2020 SWC/wireless OnStar radio interface (AXDIS-GMLN9BT)
• GM 2016-2020 SWC/wireless OnStar radio interface (AXDIS-GMLN10BT)
• Hyundai/Kia 2017-up* SWC/wireless radio replacement interface (AXDIS-HK3BT)

These new products feature simple installation, retain audio controls on the vehicle’s steering wheel, and balance and fade. They also provide NAV outputs, including parking brake, reverse, speed sense, and 12-volt 10-amp accessory power. They offer adjustment of personalization options for locks, security, lights, chimes, audio settings, and more via Bluetooth wireless technology when used with the free downloadable Axxess Custom BT app for smartphones and tablets.

The Axxess Total Control Series is a universal solution designed to work with all major radio brands, utilizing patented auto-detect technology that automatically detects the vehicle type, radio connection, and preset controls while allowing the ability to dual-assign steering wheel controls. These interfaces provide wires for multimedia radios (parking brake, reverse, and speed sense), accessory power, a 12-volt illumination output, and retain R.A.P., and balance and fade. Memory settings are retained even after battery disconnection or interface removal.

Product experts will be on-site to meet with SEMA show attendees and provide more information, and more details are available at AxxessInterfaces.com.

*Visit the Vehicle Fit Guide at MetraOnline.com for up-to-date vehicle-specific information.