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.

NEW YORK, NY (05.24.24) – SiriusXM announced extensive programming plans for the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge.

SiriusXM listeners will have access to the live call of the race from Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday, May 26. Pre-race coverage begins at 11 am ET on SiriusXM INDYCAR Nation (SiriusXM channel 218) and NBC Sports Audio (SiriusXM channel 85). Both channels are available to subscribers nationwide in their cars and on the SiriusXM app.

SiriusXM INDYCAR Nation will also air live coverage of the Indianapolis 500 Miller Lite Carb Day Practice session on Friday at 11 am ET.

Following the practice session, fans at the racetrack can watch a special SiriusXM show broadcast from the SiriusXM set outside the Pagoda at Indianapolis Motor Speedway as part of the Miller Lite Carb Day festivities. From 1:15 – 2:15 pm ET, James Hinchcliffe – a six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES race winner who has competed in the Indy 500 11 times – will host his podcast, Off Track with Hinch and Rossi. Hinchcliffe’s regular co-host for the podcast, Alexander Rossi, will be in the field for Sunday’s race. The show will be available on the SiriusXM app and other podcast platforms.

In the days leading up to the race, the SiriusXM app will feature a special “Greatest Day in Motorsports” page that will make it easy for listeners to access Indy 500 race and practice coverage, driver interviews from media day and more.

SiriusXM will be co-sponsoring three cars from the Meyer Shank Racing Team in this Sunday’s Indianapolis 500 field. The SiriusXM colors will adorn the No. 60 AutoNation/SiriusXM Honda of Felix Rosenqvist in addition to the No. 66 AutoNation/Arctic Wolf Honda of Tom Blomqvist. SiriusXM will also be on the No. 06 Cleveland-Cliffs Honda of Helio Castroneves, who is racing to be the first ever driver to claim five Indy 500 victories.

On Monday, May 27, Diplo’s Revolution (SiriusXM channel 53) will broadcast from the Indy 500 Coors Light Snake Pit and air performances by Gryffin, Sullivan King and Timmy Trumpet.

SiriusXM’s Listen Free event runs from May 23 through June 4, so everyone can listen to the SiriusXM INDYCAR Nation channel and SiriusXM’s coverage of the Indianapolis 500. During the Listen Free event, anyone with an inactive satellite radio can tune in and listen to more than 100 SiriusXM channels for free in their vehicle, no subscription required.

Click here to learn more.

OXNARD, CA (05.24.24) – SSV Works is proud to announce the launch of Tango2, a new universal turn-signal kit for off-road vehicles. Now available, Tango 2, part of the SWITCH Works line, is available in a vehicle specific configuration, for popular vehicles like the Polaris RZR Pro Series, Polaris RZR, Polaris Ranger, Can-Am X3, and Kawasaki KRX1000 and more. Tango2 is also offered in a universal configuration.

“We are proud to introduce Tango2 as a significant enhancement to our SWITCH Works line,” said Trevor Kaplan, CEO of SSV Works. “This kit represents a breakthrough in design and functionality by consolidating all control buttons into a single, all-in-one user-friendly controller that seamlessly fits into a rocker-switch location. No longer will users need to occupy multiple rocker locations for turn signals, hazards, and the horn.”

The Tango2 kit is engineered with a focus on simplicity and efficiency, streamlining the user experience with a consolidated control interface. This plug-&-play kit comes with a harness that utilities the taillight power harness, allowing for a seamless integration. No cutting, splicing harnesses required.

The kit is equipped with a versatile turn-signal button that offers multiple functions. By tapping the button once, the turn-signal is activated with an auto-cancelling feature. Holding the button for 2 seconds allows the turn-signal to remain on indefinitely. Additionally, tapping both turn-signals simultaneously activates the hazard feature for added safety.

An extra output is included for an optional license plate mount, available from SWITCH Works.

The Kit Includes:
• Controller w/Turn Signal, Hazard, and Horn Button
• Vehicle Specific Taillight Integration Harness
• Two (2) Front Amber LED Turn Signals
• Solid-State Brain Module
• Horn w/Bracket
• Plug-&-Play Wiring
• MSRP: $379.99

2024 CanAm Maverick R (PN: 240-SWTS-MAVR)
2017-2024 CanAm Maverick X3 (PN: 230-SWTS-X3)
2019-2021 CanAm Maverick Sport (PN: 230-SWTS-X3)
2016-2022 CanAm Defender (PN: 230-SWTS-DEF)
2019-2024 Honda Talon (PN: 230-SWTS-TALON)
2014-2021 Honda Pioneer (PN: 230-SWTS-PN3)
2020-2024 Kawasaki KRX1000 (PN: 230-SWTS-KRX)
2020-2024 Polaris RZR Pro Series (PN: 230-SWTS-RZ5)
2014-2021 Polaris RZR (PN: 230-SWTS-RZ5)
2013-2018 Polaris Ranger (PN: 230-SWTS-RG3)
2019-2024 Polaris Ranger (PN: 230-SWTS-RZ5)

For more information, please visit www.SSVWorks.com, call 818-991-1SSV (1778), or email sales@SSVworks.com.

STONE MOUNTAIN, GA (05.23.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced the opening of a new location in Stone Mountain, Georgia.

Tint World Stone Mountain, owned and operated by David Dinh, offers a comprehensive lineup of automotive styling and performance services, including window tint, paint protection films, ceramic coatings, audio and video systems and professional detailing.

“I can’t wait to introduce Tint World’s superior styling products and services to the Stone Mountain area,” Dinh said. “The franchise is known for being the best in the industry, and that passion and experience is one of the things that drew me to Tint World in the first place. They’ve got an amazing franchise system in place that will help me do what I love and be successful at it.”

Tint World Stone Mountain, located at 5370 Stone Mountain Hwy Ste 1050, Stone Mountain, Georgia 30087, serves Stone Mountain, Snellville, Lilburn, Tucker, Conyers, Norcross, Loganville and Redan, Georgia.

To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about services provided by Tint World Stone Mountain, call 404-224-9822 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/ga/stone-mountain-120/.

“Tint World has had a strong showing in Georgia, and I expect that trend to continue with the Stone Mountain location,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “David is enthusiastic and 100% committed to making this location a success. He’s going to make an excellent addition to the Tint World family, and I look forward to seeing this location grow.”

Visit www.TintWorld.com  for more.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.23.24) – 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.