The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund awarded scholarship and loan forgiveness awards to 46 individuals currently working or planning to pursue careers in the automotive aftermarket industry. Pictured are scholarship winners from last year.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.01.24) – The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund issued $99,000 in scholarship and loan forgiveness awards to help 46 individuals currently working or planning to pursue careers in the automotive aftermarket industry. The winners include 39 college students and seven employees of SEMA-member companies.
“As the automotive-specialty equipment market grows, so does the need for talented, ready-to-work individuals who are passionate about the industry,” said Jose Escobar, SEMA Project Manager of Recognition Programs. “This year’s winners represent the diversity and interests that the market needs, and we’re excited to support them in their academic and professional journeys.”
Established in 1984, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to encourage future talent and current leaders to succeed in the automotive industry. Each year, scholarships are awarded to help the next generation get off to a successful start in their education, and the current automotive workforce reduce their college debt. The total amount issued since the program’s inception is over $3 million.
The online application for next year’s awards will open in January 2025 at www.sema.org/scholarships.
POMPANO BEACH, FL (07.31.24) – RDVFL Automotive Technology, a pioneer in innovative automotive solutions, has unveiled its latest breakthrough: the AC-W. This state-of-the-art product revolutionizes in-car connectivity by converting wired CarPlay or Android Auto systems into wireless ones. The AC-WWireless CarPlay Adapter stands out for its rapid boot times, straightforward installation process, superior connectivity, and exceptional customer support.
Rich De Sclafani holds an AC-W in the RDV office in Pompano Beach, FL.
The launch of the AC-W is poised to significantly impact the market for wireless CarPlay adapters. As more drivers seek to eliminate the clutter and inconvenience of wired systems, the AC-W offers an ideal solution. Its combination of fast boot times, easy installation, and reliable connectivity sets it apart from competitors, positioning it as thebest wireless CarPlay adapter available.
“The AC-W is designed to meet the growing demand for seamless wireless integration in vehicles, meeting the need for convenient and efficient in-car systems as technology evolves. The adapter addresses this need by offering a hassle-free way to upgrade existing wired CarPlay or Android Auto systems to wireless, enhancing the driving experience. We stand behind our products and always provide great support,” said Rich De Sclafani, RDVFL’s owner and an award-winning executive in the industry.
One of the standout features of the AC-W is its fast boot time, typically between five to eight seconds. Drivers can expect minimal delay when starting their vehicles, allowing immediate access to their CarPlay or Android Auto interface. This rapid responsiveness ensures that navigation, music, and other essential apps are available almost instantly, improving overall convenience.
The AC-W is designed with user-friendly installation in mind, making it accessible to any user. The adapter is easily plugged into the existing wired CarPlay or Android Auto port, activating the wireless functionality within moments. With no technical expertise required, this plug-and-play setup eliminates the need for complicated wiring or professional installation, saving time and effort.
TEMPE, AZ (07.31.24) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce its MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training, scheduled August 9-12 at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz. During the event, attendees will learn from the best in the business and enhance their shop’s capabilities by utilizing Mobile Solutions’ comprehensive training program that will reveal the secrets to mastering CAD design automation, 3D fabrication, upholstery, and high-end automotive finishes.
The MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training offers in-depth examples of three real-world design projects, executed to the highest level. Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from Bryan Schmitt and special guest, the acclaimed automotive designer and master fabricator, Tom Miller.
What to expect from the MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training:
Hands-On Class: Participate in a hands-on class project that walks you through the entire design process from ideation to execution.
Finding Inspiration: Get tips on how to find inspiration and navigate through the ideation phase.
Efficient Planning: Improve your efficiency and elevate your design game with a fully realized plan, making it easier to start new projects and pitch ideas to clients.
Collaborative Learning Environment: Engage in a collaborative environment where you can share ideas and get feedback from peers and instructors.
Boost Your Business: Develop skills to effectively pitch your ideas and present your designs to potential clients.
Master Advanced Techniques: Develop a deeper understanding of cutting-edge processes and technologies.
“Everything starts with a plan,” said Miller. “In our Door Panel Fabrication Class, you’ll learn how to turn your idea into a compelling, executable plan. We’ll cover finding inspiration, ideation, sketching on paper, digital rendering, and 3D modeling. Starting a new project or pitching an idea can be tough, often leaving us stuck. This class will boost your design skills and efficiency, helping you create a fully realized plan.”
Schmitt concluded, “This is your chance to elevate your craftsmanship and stay ahead in the competitive automotive industry. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now and ensure your place among the elite in fabrication.”
ANAHEIM, CA (07.30.24) – PowerBass was on site at the MTS Custom’s Cars and Coffee in Anaheim CA on Sunday, July 28th.
PowerBass Bluetooth portables were spotlighted at the MTS Customs Cars and Coffee
“MTS Customs offers Tint, Detail and Wrap for area consumer and is very active with events to connect with consumers. With that in mind Juan Quintana and I attended the Sunday Cars and Coffee event. We are finding consumers are finding many ways to enjoy music with Bluetooth portables. We have expanded the PowerBass line of Bluetooth portables and decided to attend the MTS event. Saturday the day before we were at the Rifle Supply Mid Summer Bash 2 and many attendees liked our Bluetooth lineup” Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, stated.
Attendees signing up for raffles at the event.
Daniel Stewart from Signature Performance was a very happy PowerBass Bluetooth portable raffle winner.
During the MTS event there were raffles and giveaways that created a lot of excitement from people in the center. The Rifle Supply Durango, loaded with a custom PowerBass system, was also on the lot which was another plus for the PowerBass brand.
The Rifle Supply Durango, loaded with a custom PowerBass system, was on site at the event.
Through the day, the MTS Customs Cars and Coffee was busy.
Concluding Harbour commented “MTS Customs is not stocking our Bluetooth portables yet but this was a terrific for the company to see the potential of adding the PowerBass Bluetooth portables to their product lineup.”
OSAGE, OK (07.30.24) – TikiBilt Fab was on site at the SLAMBOREE event at the Osage Casino Hotel from July 26th-28th. From the company’s booth and trailer the company’s unique lineup of custom panels were displayed for attendees.
Dylan Dirickson’s TikiBilt Fab company specializes in custom metal fabrication aimed at the custom automotive industry. The company specializes in beadrolling and custom artwork fabrication and is available to build custom under hood panels, custom sheet metal bed work for install installations in pickup trucks, interior panels and more. In addition, the panels can be utilized for advertisement, company logos, car club names, Car Show awards and family home decorations.
This custom project in the Code Zero Customs booth grabbed the eye of the 12volt Central Studio staff.
A custom project for the SLAMBOREE.
This will make Peterbilt owner happy.
The company’s unique products caught the eye of 12volt Central staff in a Code Zero Customs social media post. Dylan made a custom panel for Cody Landis for helping him with a lighting project for the TikiBilt Fab show trailer.
Under hood custom work is also available.
The TikiBilt Fab trailer is set to light up the night at events.
Great to see 12volt companies working together to drive the 12volt industry.
HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA (07.29.24) – The Rifle Supply Mid Summer Bash 2 packed the center on Saturday July 27th in Huntington Beach. There were over two dozen vendors on site as attendees enjoyed food, music, prizes, raffles and checked out a number of gun supply products. POWERBASS was on site with Erik Harbour and Juan Quintana showing Bluetooth portables along with a custom XL-1250 SoundBar.
Juan Quintana under the PowerBass tent showcasing the wide selection of Bluetooth portables on display.
Erik Harbour, POWERBASS VP, related “Seems there is a lot of crossover with the Rifle Supply customer base and and 12volt enthusiasts. The Rifle Supply team members are friends and we participate with them at local events. Rifle Supply events have been great for allowing us to tap into a new customer base that enjoys time outdoors where portable Bluetooth speakers make a great addition to enjoy some tunes while slinging some lead or just hanging out with friends after a fun day at the range.”
Paul Rodriguez with Rifle Supply works closely with Erik Harbour and PowerBass. He created this social media graphic to highlight PowerBass portables.
This is an image of the PowerBass XL-1250. that Rifle Supply applied custom cerakote Yours work that will go in Raul‘s custom Chevy pick up.
Paul Rodriquez from Rifle Supply, created a work of art with a custom POWERBASS XL-1250 that will be installed in the bed of his custom Chevy truck. The XL-1250 was disassembled and Rifle Supply did the custom cerakote work on the grille to prepare the XL 1250 for installation in the bed of his truck.
Concluding Harbour offered “We Juan and I were busy throughout the event and the crowd was estimated at over 1000 people having fun all day. We also had opportunities to talk with attendees about music and gear they had in their rides or on their motorcycles. A great way to let consumers connect with the POWERBASS products and brand.”
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (07.29.24) – With the beginning of July 2024 the 12volt industry activities shifted into high gear. Proactive 12volt industry members utilized the 12voltSTP Tool to showcase their positive activities this past weekend.
Chris Pace rolled the Arrowhead JBL trailer into the parking lot in front of Sound Works in Fremont NE to support Johathan Schahrer and his special event. Sound Works celebrates 30 years in business and had a special 4-Day celebration with great in-store specials for consumers in the Fremont area July 25 thru 29th.
Chris Pace (L) and Jonathan Schahrer pictured with the Arrowhead Sales JBL trailer out front of Sound Works in Fremont NE as a 4-day 30th Anniversary Sale is getting ready to start.
Luis Rodriguez sent this image of the Taramps crew from their warehouse in Miami. Kevin Rigo, Luis Rodriguez, Angel Rodriguez and Miguel Rodriguez spotlight their latest products.
Luis Rodriguez sent an image of the Taramps crew showcasing the new line of amplifiers that the company has in their Miami FL warehouse to support their dealer network across the U.S.
Blake Potts wanted to show the 12volt industry know AED Distributors just received a big order of DS18 products that he and JJ will start to ship to dealers.
Anthony Chevez at PCH Custom Audio n Log Beach is always creating very cool custom installations and just completed a major JL Audio project in a highend golf cart.
JJ (L) and Blake Potts will definitely be shipping DS18 orders from the AED warehouse in Birmingham.
Anthony Chavez really decked out this high-end golf cart with a full JB Audio system.
Alpine had a strong presence at the 2024 X Takeover as the Official Audio Sponsor at the Madonna Inn grounds in San Luis Obispo CA with area dealer Audio Xperts on site for demos to support the Alpine team members.
The Alpine Experience at Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL was once a very well attended event as Chris Reavis rolled the Alpine Jeep into the event and handles many demos on Saturday, July 27th.
PowerBass spotlighted portable Bluetooth portables at the Rifle Supply Mid Summer Bash in Huntington Beach CA on Saturday July 27th. Eric Harbour and Juan Quintana were under the busy tent in the center’s parking lot with over 2 dozen premium vendors, music, food and giveaways plus raffles.
The Alpine Experience at Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL with Chris Reavis was making music fun again.
Juan Quintana, along with Erik Harbour, were certainly Jammin’ N July with PowerBass Bluetooth portables at the Rifle Supply Mid Summer Bash 2 in Huntington Beach, CA.
The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase a company’s positive activities and products. Snap and Txt an image… PRESTO your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318-469-2526 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.
To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios posts articles on 12voltnews.com each business day and makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each day. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send their news to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318-469-2526. PRESTO, your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.
On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are dedicated members of the 12volt industry. To see over 1000 posts #12voltstp on Instagram.
Look forward to seeing your company’s brand and positive activities in the 12volt News.
STURBRIDGE, MA (07.26.24) – As the summer sun sets over New England, locals revel in the warm weather, flocking to beaches and parks to soak in the picturesque surroundings before schools reopen after Labor Day. This bustling activity signals the perfect time to fire up the DeLorean and prepare for the much-anticipated GoFast Mobile Expo!
Mark Your Calendars: GoFast Mobile Expo
This year’s GoFast Mobile Expo is set to be a blast from the past and a leap into the future! Returning to the iconic Sturbridge Host—a venue that holds countless memories of past expos—this year’s event promises to be more electrifying than ever. Evolving from its traditional focus on remote starts, the expo now includes the latest in lighting, paint protection, detailing, holiday shopping, and winterizing summer recreational vehicles. Here are the essential details you need to know:
When: Wednesday, September 25th, 2024
Where: Sturbridge Host 366 Main St, Sturbridge, MA 01566
Watch out for more details and early registration prize drawings coming in August!
LIBERTYVILLE, IN (07.26.24) – JK TUNED. HAS. ARRIVED. ALL-NEW for 2024 — Jeep JK Tuned Audio for Jeep Wrangler JK vehicles turns your customer’s audio into to a concert thrill ride! It’s time to embrace Music. Defined. Jeep JK Tuned Audio audio!
Your customer’s outdoor playback through every terrain is about to become enhanced with Music. Defined. quality in every beat with ALL-NEW for 2024 Jeep JK Tuned Audio now innovated for Jeep Wrangler JK vehicles.
INCREDIBLE POWER meets LOUDER SOUND.
The MBQJK-STG2AH-1 is an 800-watt STAGE 2 Jeep Wrangler JK Tuned two-speaker audio system upgrade. Included in this STAGE 2 Wrangler JK kit are two 6.5-inch drivers, two 1-inch Titanium dome drivers, and two 400-watt Class-D amplifiers. Delivering incredible levels of audio gains and playback to your Jeep Wrangler JK vehicle (2007-2018 models) – the MBQJK-STG2AH-1 STAGE 2 Kit requires an aftermarket source unit and rear speakers/soundbar.
Innovated in a black and clean finish to blend in with the interior of every Jeep Wrangler JK vehicle, the front speakers feature a shallow lightweight frame design for maximum airspace creating steady and clean playback.
The STAGE 2 Jeep Wrangler JK Kit is prewired and has additional space on the amplifier brack to easily add a Tail Gate tailgate-mounted subwoofer System (MBQJL-302 – see below).
With a full-range amplifier powder-coated mounting plate included – enjoy easy and simple Plug & Play OEM-style installation.
Have all of your customers get ready for MB Quart Jeep JK Tuned Audioadventures delivering HIGHER LEVELS of LOUD and INCREDIBLE SOUND.
Learn more HERE on the MBQJK-STG2AH-1 800-watt STAGE 2 Jeep Wrangler JK Tuned Audio System.
MONTEREY, CA (07.25.24) – Following the excitement of the initial announcement, Hemmings and Motoring Culture Club (MC2) are delighted to reveal further features of “UpShift,” an innovative event that blends the sophistication of classic cars with the dynamic history of Hip-Hop. Scheduled for August 15th at SandBox in Sand City, Calif., this event is set to be a distinctive celebration, breaking traditional boundaries and fostering connections among enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds.
Hemmings and MC2 are proud to announce that Complecto, a platform and agency committed to elevating and amplifying underrepresented voices in the watch industry and collecting community, has partnered with Accutron, Alpina, Bulova and Frederique Constant as sponsors for UpShift. By supporting the event, Complecto and the partnering watch brands are helping to create a unique platform that honors tradition, embraces the future, and fosters connections among diverse communities. Their involvement underscores the event’s mission to transcend traditional boundaries and create a welcoming environment where enthusiasts can unite to celebrate shared passions.
“Watches and cars have long shared a rich history, with a deep cultural intersection between watch collecting and automotive enthusiasm,” says Jason Gong, Founder of Complecto. “We are thrilled to partner with watch brands Accutron, Alpina, Bulova, and Frederique Constant as sponsors for UpShift, an event celebrating the rich heritage of classic cars with the vibrant history of Hip-Hop. Through this partnership, we look forward to fostering connections and creating an experience that elevates and moves the culture forward.”
UpShift is a collaborative initiative with MC2, a platform focused on curating the future of the car community. It represents a significant milestone for Hemmings, promoting a more accessible classic car culture. This event aims to not only celebrate the profound influence of Hip-Hop on classic car culture but also actively open the doors to a broader and more diverse audience. By integrating this dynamic music genre with automotive history, UpShift seeks to create a welcoming environment that transcends traditional boundaries, inviting enthusiasts of all backgrounds to connect over shared passions.
“UpShift represents a pivotal moment for Hemmings as we continue to promote an inclusive classic car culture. This event not only highlights the influence of Hip-Hop on automotive history but also invites a broader audience to experience the joy and passion of classic cars. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where enthusiasts of all backgrounds – whether seasoned aficionados or new to the scene – can come together to celebrate shared passions,” said Jonathan Shaw, President of Hemmings.
Event Highlights:
· Highlighted Cars: Attendees will be captivated by a curated collection of classic cars, meticulously assembled by Edris Ekhlas ofRefresh.ERA. This company embodies the dynamic intersection of Hip Hop and automotive culture, celebrating their historical and contemporary connections. Highlights include Grammy-award-winning rapper Killer Mike’s Grand National, a tribute display honoring the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, a Maybach 57 inspired by New Orleans artist Birdman, and a ‘64 Impala lowrider, an icon of West Coast Hip Hop. Luxury Watch Showcase: Attendees can get hands-on with a curated collection of luxury watches from sponsor brands Accutron, Alpina, Bulova and Frederique Constant Photography Exhibit: A captivating exhibit showcasing works sourced from artist-enthusiasts across America highlighting cars relevant to this period of Hip-Hop. · Hip-Hop and Culture: The event will feature a virtual set by DJ Self Born blending genres from disco to classic Hip-Hop. The DJ will provide the musical backdrop to the cars and evoke the spirit of the car culture synonymous with the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. · Inclusive Experience: With a mission to open doors to the car community, UpShift is an intentionally welcoming space for enthusiasts from all walks of life, whether seasoned aficionados or new to the scene.
12VoltNews.com 