MIDDLETOWN, CT (06.05.24) – GoFast Solutions is pleased to announce that Brad Arnold has joined the company as Automotive Aftermarket Sales Manager, effective June 3, 2024.

With over three decades of experience in sales and management within the automotive and electronics industries, Brad brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the GoFast Solutions team. His proven track record of developing successful business strategies and his dedication to customer service will be invaluable as GoFast Solutions continues to expand its market presence.

Brad began his career in 1992 as a salesperson for P&E Distributors and quickly advanced to manage the Georgia Division, where he successfully led the business for over 30 years. His leadership and management skills were instrumental in overseeing the hugely successful Georgia division of P&E Distributors .

In his new role at GoFast Solutions, Brad will be responsible for driving sales growth, fostering strong customer relationships, and delivering exceptional service to clients. His extensive experience in the industry will play a crucial role in enhancing the company’s sales strategies and achieving its business objectives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Brad Arnold to the GoFast Solutions family,” said David Prinz, CEO of GoFast Solutions. “Brad’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the automotive and electronics sectors make him a perfect fit for our team. We are confident that his contributions will help us continue to provide top-notch service to our customers and drive our business forward.”

Brad Arnold expressed his enthusiasm about joining GoFast Solutions: “I am excited to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking company. GoFast Solutions has a strong reputation in the industry, and I look forward to working with the team to achieve our shared goals and deliver exceptional value to our customers.”

Visit gofst.com for more.

BELLEVUE, WA (06.04.24) – As car sales reached a four-month high in April and people are spending more time on the roads, more drivers are placing an emphasis on the sound quality in their vehicles. ESB Audio developed their new, top-of-the-line Novemila 9000 Series Speakers for those who demand the ultimate car audio experience.

“We’re excited and very proud to welcome Systems Unlimited as our first 9000 Series Car Speaker dealer in the US”, says Chris Bennett, Zapco & ESB Audio’s Director of US Sales. “For the last 3+ decades, Systems Unlimited has been North Washington’s premier retailer and installer of high-end car audio. Their experience, knowledge, and attention to detail is second to none.”

“The Novemila 3-way sets are absolute works of art, and we are already excited about doing our first install using the Novemila 9000 Series Speakers in an upcoming build”, says Charles Maddy, owner of Systems Unlimited.

Designed in Italy, the 9000 Series sets a new standard for accuracy and design in car audio. Featuring high power handling and high efficiency, the mid-ranges and woofer utilize oversized, high-grade neodymium magnets, powder coated cast aluminum baskets, large aluminum voice coils, and high modulus carbon cones, while the tweeters use resin impregnated silk domes, stainless steel grilles, and support an extended range up to 25KHz. The new 9000 Series are some of the most technologically advanced car speakers ever produced.

Based in Italy, ESB Audio was originally founded in 1972 to develop high-fidelity home loudspeakers. In 1984, the company entered the high-end car audio field. Today, ESB boasts 7 different series of car speakers with retail price points ranging from $56.99 to $4,795.

The complete 9000 Series 3-way component system consists of the Novemila 9.6W woofer, Novemila 9.3M midrange, and Novemila 9.1T-28 tweeter. The set carries a retail price of $3,899.99. For specifications and more information, visit https://www.esbcar.com/9000-series

The Novemila 9000 Series Speakers will officially debut in the United States at KnowledgeFest in Atlantic City, June 7th-9th.

Contact: Chirs Bennet- cbennett@apexgoup.it, (805) 291-9997

HOUSTON, TX (6.04.24) – Houston’s top tier installers showed up to the SSR Distributors Houston Campus on Wednesday May 29th for SSR University 1.4 – Sound Processing 101. Participants learned equalization, crossover theory, the importance of slopes, time alignment, and much more.

Paul Galanos, SSR Client Development Director, who conducts the sessions stated “Once again we had a packed house from area retail staff members wanting to learn so they can better serve customers in their stores. Being prepared is definitely a key factor to driving business.”

Continuing “The folks from PowerBass even threw in a FREE PBX-DSP8 Digital Sound Processor that was given away to one lucky winner!”

Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP offered, “We are excited to see our great customers offering educational events for dealers. The new PBX-DSP8 is a quick and effective tool to get great sound and we are happy to see SSR University showcasing this product in this recent session. Knowledge is power and giving that back to our industry is a great thing!”

The pizza was great and enjoyed by all but the knowledge was better. Lead Trainer Paul Galanos and the SSR staff put on a another great SSR University seminar.

Concluding Galanos stated “There’s much more to come from SSR University so stay tuned!”.

Visit ssrdistributors.com for more.

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.03.24) – It’s Summertime and time for 12volt dealers to ‘Crank It Up’ and drive sales! It’s Summertime and time for consumers to get Jammin’ N June with great gear for their rides. Vendors, reps, distributors and dealers can unite to get consumers into stores. HiTech in-dash media, powerful amps and speakers that rock plus much more will get their rides Jammin’ N June.

The custom Jammin’ N June graphic can get the ball rolling. There is No Charge. In today’s marketplace proactive 12volt retailers are utilizing social media to connect with followers and consumers. 12volt retailers can post this FREE graphic on their Instagram and Facebook accounts. The graphic is square for the Instagram and Facebook templates….Simply screenshot and size the graphic!!! In the comments area dealers can highlight their brands and exciting activities…. Special offers too!

Jammin’ N June. Those words, and that message, can grab the attention of followers and consumers to create in-store traffic for 12volt retailers.

Online sales have been on a steady rise for the past several years. The COVID-19 Pandemic, along with stimulus checks, led to a dramatic spike in overall 12volt sales which has come to an end. Continuing inflation has led to lower in-store traffic. Jammin’ N June themed activities by proactive 12volt retailers can drive social media awareness and traffic into their stores… and very importantly drive sales.

It’s imperative that 12volt retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in the showroom. An impressive demonstration will bring a smile to the consumer’s face and can raise the hair on their arms.

Sound-Off events and in-person activities are once again creating excitement. These facts indicate 12volt enthusiasts are ready to Crank It Up and get Jammin’ N June.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The 12voltSTP Tool makes that easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image with a few details to 318-469-2526. PRESTO. Your store’s positive activities could be in the news.

As an industry ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On.’ Let’s get Jammin’ N June!

Much more to come from the 12volt Central Studios.

THE 12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.03.24) – The 12voltBeat Newsletter, delivering fresh industry news, is emailed twice weekly to subscribers across the 12volt industry.

News reporters walk the beat in their areas to gather and deliver the news of the day. Staff from the 12volt Central Studios gathers the news digitally from across the US and around the world. The 12volt industry has a history based on music and good music definitely has a beat. Thus the 12voltBeat.

The 12voltBeat is emailed early Monday and Thursday mornings to over 4000 industry subscribers. Those 12voltBeat newsletters contain industry news from the previous days.

There is no charge to receive the 12voltBeat.

To subscribe to the 12voltBeat newsletter, simply click here.

TEMPE, AZ (05.31.24) – Mobile Solutions, a leader in creating the tools and training needed for custom automotive electronics, audio, and interior installations, is proud to announce two new additions to its Advanced Radius Tool (ART) template/tool sets. The Giant Curved Rulers and Giant French Curves are both now available at introductory and bundled rate pricing.

“Our comprehensive Giant Curved Ruler set includes six pieces and is ideal for layout, measuring, routing, and fabrication,” explained Bryan Schmitt, Mobile Solutions founder/CEO/president. “These rulers are easily adjustable to build organic shapes that improve workflow for smooth lines and transitions and are suitable for a wide range of users, including artists, students, designers, patter makers, graphic designers, and other DIY enthusiasts.”

Additional features include:
• Stylish design; adjust the position according to your needs, and the engraved marking can save you time and improve your shape design
• Versatile application: can be applied to design ideation, fabrication, and upholstery
• Shatter-resistant PVC material; durable and long-lasting
• Comprehensive kit; includes six template pieces, approx. 39in L x 9.5in W to 16in L x 9.5in W

Normally $99.99; the kit (p/n ST-ART-CURVE) is now available for an introductory price of only $79.99 (a $20 savings).

“Our Giant French Curves have been designed for automotive interior design enthusiasts and professionals,” Schmitt continued. “This set includes for unique versatile templates, crafted from durable plastic to ensure longevity and precision. Perfect for layout, fabrication design, and upholstery work, these templates are essential for creating intricate and smooth curves and transitions in a project’s design.”

Additional features include:
• A multitude of curves included; each template in the set offers a different curve design, providing a wide range of creative possibilities for automotive interior projects
• Router compatibility; specifically designed to be used with routers, these templates make it easy to transfer intricate designs onto materials with smooth and clean cuts
• Shatter-resistant PVC material; durable and long-lasting
• Comprehensive kit; includes four template pieces, approx. 29in L x 10in W to 21in L x 9.5in W

Normally $99.99; the kit (p/n ST-ART-FRENCH) is now available for an introductory price of only $79.99 (a $20 savings).

For additional savings, the Giant Curved Ruler set and the Giant French Curve set can be bundled together for a $149.99 introductory price (a $49.99 savings).

For more information, visit www.MobileSolutions-usa.com.

TORRANCE, CA (05.31.24) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics, a cutting-edge electronics designer and manufacturer dedicated exclusively to advanced vehicle driver safety, is set to unveil whole new TESLA specific vehicle accessories, with the new brand “TESLAspec.com”.

The new product line is consisting of the following categories:
• Front Displays (3 types, 8.8” with front trim install, 8.8” with steering column install, 3.5” Mini) for vehicle status info, including speed, door open/close, temperature, tire pressure and wireless CarPlay/Android.
• Rear Console 7-inch display for rear seat passengers with air condition, temperature, music playback, seat position, seat heating controls, independent APP for rear seats entertainments, including YouTube with BT audio transmission
• TESLA Display Swivel Kit for main display panel
• Auto Door Handles with Bluetooth connection for auto detection and auto handle opening with RGB ambient illumination
• Soft Door Locking Mechanism for soft motorized closing action
• Laser Engraved Ambient Interior Lighting with multi color touch screen controls
• Power Frank Opener/Closer with remote operation capability with original TESLA mobile app
• Frank Soft Closing Mechanism for smooth motorized closing operation
• Power Trunk mechanism for older Model 3 & S
• Electric Sunshade with motorized open/close operations and easy snap on installation
• Ventilated Seats with perforated material with low noise fan & original vehicle screen controls
• Electric Footrest for Model Y with original vehicle controls
• Rear Seat Folding Table with automatic wireless charging for mobile phones
• Portable Freezer/Refrigerators designed to fit the rear under floor compartment designed for Model 3 (25-litter) and Model Y (35-litter)
• Various Steering Wheels for Model 3 and Y, offering the same YOKE style as Model X/S and heated steering wheel feature retained
• Various Taillights for fashionable/unique/original look
• Carbon Fiber Trims, Spoilers and Body Kits
• Underbody Skid Plates for Front steering/autopilot computer protection and Rear electric motor protection

RYDEEN’s TESLAspec accessories are engineered to safeguard, personalize, and enhance the TESLA driving experience. With a focus on quality, reliability, and sporty aesthetics, RYDEEN’s accessories offer a perfect blend of style and functionality, elevating both the interior and exterior of Tesla vehicles.

“For 15 years, RYDEEN has been synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation in the automotive industry,” said Ruben Torres – national sales manager for RYDEEN. “With our new line of TESLA accessories, we aim to be the one-stop provider of installation-oriented TESLA products to dealers & distributors nationwide. Offering TESLA owners with premium aftermarket solutions that complement the sophistication and elegance of their vehicles.”

Throughout 2024, Rydeen will proudly showcase the TESLA Model Y demo vehicle at select prominent events. Join us at KnowledgeFest – Atlantic City from June 7th to 9th (BOOTH #230). We invite you to visit our booth and immerse yourself in the future of automotive innovation with Rydeen.

To learn more about RYDEEN’s TESLAspec accessories and explore installation options, visit their website at rydeenmobile.com or subscribe to their YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/rydeenmobileusa

For inquiries and further information, please contact Rydeen Mobile Electronics at 310-787-7880 or sales@rydeenmobile.com.

SHREVEPORT, LA (05.28.24) – With the beginning of May 2024 the 12volt industry activities shifted into high gear. From Illinois, Oregon, California, Mississippi, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington proactive 12volt industry members utilized the 12voltSTP Tool to showcase their positive activities.

The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your 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.

Check out the images below for examples of posts made over the week with images from 12volt industry members who utilized the 12voltSTP Tool.

Today, a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone.

To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business 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.

Visit instagram @12voltnews for more.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.28.24) – The automotive specialty-equipment industry continues to see growth, strong demand, and less volatility this year, according to the new “SEMA State of the Industry–Spring 2024 Report,” a bi-annual report focusing on the current business climate, key industry trends, and metrics. The report is provided to SEMA members free-of-charge.

A total of 48% of manufacturers reported an increase in company sales over the past year—an 8% increase compared to Fall 2023. Distributors saw the largest sales shift, with 49% reporting an increase in sales, marking an 18% rise compared to last Fall. Meanwhile, a majority of retailers (43%) reported that their sales remained steady.

“Businesses across the board have continued to see improved sales growth, although rising costs remain a significant challenge across the industry,” said SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp. “Our research suggests that despite the price increases, companies are optimistic about their future sales and the growth of the specialty-equipment market in the next 3-5 years.”

Key findings from the report include:

• Sales Rising: More than half of manufacturers (57%), distributors (53%), and retailers (50%) expect their company sales to grow over the coming year.
• Opportunity Segments: 38% of manufacturers view off-road as having high opportunity, while 36% of retailers see high opportunity in restoration and classic cars.
• Help Wanted: A total of 84% of manufacturers and 80% percent of distributors expect to hire over the next year, particularly in sales, labor, and engineering.
• Prices Leveling Off: Many companies have increased their prices due to increased supplier and production costs; however, 43% of manufacturers, 34% of distributors, and 34% of retailer/installers are expecting to hold prices steady over the next year.
• Pickups a Segment Leader: Pickups remain the top vehicle segment for the aftermarket with the highest sales growth among manufacturers and retailers/installers over the past year. Still, companies see opportunity across a number of different segments.
• New Car Prices Dropping: The average price for a new car is $47,244–a decrease of 2% vs. May 2023.

Chapters within the report include industry performance, sales shifts by channel, vehicle segment insights, products and vehicle trends, manufacturer insights, and retailer and installer trends.

SEMA business members can download the report for free as a benefit of membership at www.sema.org/research.