AUBURN HILLS, MI (05.03.24) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) awarded the 2023 Customer Care Award to Xtreme Autosound & Marine during the Alpine Style Center Dealer Council hosted virtually in April. This is the second year in a row that Xtreme Autosound & Marine has received this award.

“Our retailers are the face of our brand and Xtreme Autosound continues to be a great reflection of the high quality and standards that Alpine seeks to provide to our customers,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “For the second year in a row, Xtreme Autosound’s commitment to excellence has positioned them as a top provider of customer service.”

Established in 2021, the Alpine Customer Care Award is given to the Alpine Authorized Retailer who provides outstanding customer service on behalf of the Alpine brand. Recipients of this award have gone above and beyond to provide the perfect Alpine product solution to a customer and ensure the longevity of the product experience by registering the product for warranty and support services.

“Xtreme Autosound would like to thank Alpine for presenting us with the 2023 Customer Care Award,” said Anthony Zagata, owner of Xtreme Autosound & Marine. “It is an honor to be a two-time winner of this award. We appreciate the commitment that Alpine continues to have with us and our customers. Xtreme Autosound strives every day to take care of our clients with the awesome products that Alpine continues to produce.”

Located in Louisville, KY, Xtreme Autosound & Marine has been an Alpine Authorized Retailer since 2018 and an Alpine Style Center since the program was introduced in 2020.

Visit alpine-usa.com and xtremeautosoundky.com for more.

SEATTLE, WA (05.03.24) – MUSWAY is excited to be attending the 2024 Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo. Randy Bowen -VP of Operations along with Joseph Norton-Technical Director will be attending the event for the first time.

MUSWAY is bringing up their Award Winning KIA Demo Car for dealers to listen to at the event. The KIA was built to be fun and accurate. The goal was to make anyone who sits in it say “WOW” and get out with a smile on their face, no matter what type of music they listened to during the demo.

At the California State Finals the MUSWAY KIA took 1st place for Sound Quality in all 3 divisions-IASCA, EMMA, and WCA this past September.

The System consisted of a FiiO Hi-Res player feeding an eXcelon head unit which then goes to a MUSWAY Tune 12 DSP Processor, a pair of MUSWAY SIX100 amplifiers which powers a 3-way active set of MUSWAY MG 6.3A Component System for the front stage and a pair of MUSWAY MGM3’s 3″ Mid Speakers for the differential rear fill. For Bass, 3 MUSWAY MG10″ Subwoofers are powered by a MUSWAY ONE2000 Class D Monoblock Amplifier.

“Looking for a manufacturer that supports dealers and does not offer products directly to your customers? Looking for a partner who will not pressure you to buy more than what you need or want? Looking for high quality products and more profit dollars? Stop by and see us at the 2024 Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo May 13-15,” Joseph Norton, Technical Director MUSWAY-USA, related

Office: (310) 525-8086 Cell: (479) 200-8750

Visit www.muswayusa.com for more.

CUMBERLAND, RI (05.02.24) – Sylvester Electronics, a leading provider of 12 Volt consumer electronics in Cumberland RI, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Blaupunkt, a renowned brand in mobile audio.

Starting May 1st Sylvester Electronics will offer a wide selection of Blaupunkt car audio products, including:

• Head units: Featuring cutting-edge technology for exceptional sound quality, Bluetooth connectivity, and seamless smartphone integration.
• Speakers: Delivering a range of options from component speakers for audiophiles to powerful subwoofers for bass enthusiasts.
• Amplifiers: Designed to boost the power of your sound system and create a truly immersive listening experience.

“We are excited to partner with Blaupunkt and offer our customers access to their exceptional line of mobile audio products,” said Thomas Sylvester, GM at Sylvester Electronics. “Blaupunkt has a blend of unique features and aggressive points making it a great offering for our customers.”

Sylvester Electronics is a trusted source for consumer electronics in Cumberland, Rhode Island. For 48 years, the company has been providing customers with a wide selection of products and exceptional service. Their knowledgeable staff is passionate about helping customers find the perfect electronics for their needs. Their web site is www.sylves.com or you can reach them by calling 800-225-5568.

Blaupunkt is a global brand with a rich history dating back to 1925. They are renowned for their high-quality car audio products and commitment to innovation. Blaupunkt continues to push the boundaries of mobile audio technology, offering drivers a superior listening experience.

For more, contact Thomas Sylvester at 401-725-1630 or toms@sylves.com

DIAMOND BAR, CA (05.02.24) – Registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is now open at www.semashow.com/register. Taking place Nov. 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2024 SEMA Show will reveal the future of the aftermarket as attendees connect with thousands of leading manufacturers showcasing the latest products, trends, and technology in the industry.

Enthusiasm for this year’s SEMA Show continues to build as representatives from more than 2,000 companies prepare to select their exhibit space during Priority Space Selection, April 29-May 15. The weeks-long selection process will lay the foundation for this year’s floorplan, which will encompass millions of square feet of displays throughout the entire Las Vegas Convention Center and surrounding parking lots.

“The SEMA Show is always a reflection of the marketplace we serve,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “The strong enthusiasm already being shown for the 2024 Show is a great illustration of the industry’s relentless drive to innovate. Our goal is to amplify this energy by creating a platform for attendees to connect with industry leaders, network with thousands of qualified professionals, and take their business and career to the next level.”

In addition to seeing the latest trends and technology on the Show floor, the 2024 SEMA Show will feature the world’s largest display of new automotive aftermarket products at the New Products Showcase, the latest builds, new areas dedicated to the future of EV and propulsion, and world-class education tracks and seminars that give attendees a best-in-class professional development experience. Unique events and activations such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the Industry Banquet, vehicle demonstrations, and SEMA Fest, a celebration of music and car culture, will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.

“The SEMA Show campus will look a little different this year as the Las Vegas Convention Center’s $600 million renovation project is underway, but we have worked closely with LVCC management to have the full facility available come Show time,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “Every hall will be filled with the best brands in the business, giving attendees an unmatched event experience with access to industry leaders and innovators and insight into new automotive technology and products. Show goers will also enjoy an expanded LVCC Loop, with new service to the Encore, Wynn, and Westgate, making it easier to access the SEMA Show from several major hotels.”

Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of housing and travel discounts. Registration is only $40 for qualified attendees who register by June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at www.semashow.com/register. Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA’s official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2024 SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com. For updates on SEMA Fest, including musical acts and times, visit www.semafest.com.

MESQUITE, TX (05.01.24)– Joseph’s Auto Toy Store is delighted to announce the celebration of the company’s 40th anniversary serving the Mesquite community. Since opening its doors in 1984, Joseph’s Auto Toy Store has been a cornerstone in Mesquite’s automotive industry, providing unparalleled service and top-quality products to customers.

For four decades, Joseph’s Auto Toy Store has been committed to excellence, offering a wide range of automotive toys, accessories and services to meet the diverse needs of its customers. From classic car enthusiasts to modern vehicle aficionados, Joseph’s Auto Toy Store has catered to all plus earning a reputation for reliability, expertise, and exceptional customer service.

“We are immensely proud to celebrate this significant milestone of 40 years in business,” said Joel Joseph of Joseph’s Auto Toy Store. “Since my parents started the business in the 80s, we have remained dedicated to providing the highest quality products and services while fostering strong relationships with our valued customers. We are deeply grateful for their continued support over the years.”

To commemorate this momentous occasion, Joseph’s Auto Toy Store will be hosting a series of special events and promotions throughout the year, including exclusive discounts, giveaways, and community engagement initiatives. Additionally, customers can look forward to exciting announcements and product launches as Joseph’s Auto Toy Store continues to innovate and evolve in the ever-changing automotive landscape.

“We invite our loyal customers and the Mesquite community to join us in celebrating this incredible milestone. As we look toward to the future, we remain committed to upholding the same principles of integrity, quality, and customer satisfaction that have defined Joseph’s Auto Toy Store for the past 40 years” Joel Joseph concluded.

For more information about Joseph’s Auto Toy Store and its 40th-anniversary celebrations, please visit www.josephsautotoystore.com or follow us on social media.

AVON LAKE, OH (05.01.24) – Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), a leading automotive thermal and acoustic product provider, is thrilled to announce a limited-time rebate program for all DEI Turbo Shields. Consumers can now receive up to $100 in cash rebates on select DEI Turbo Shields purchased between May 1 and July 31, 2024.

DEI Turbo Shields are renowned for their use of premium materials, quality construction and unparalleled performance in protecting turbo components from harmful radiant heat. With this rebate program, consumers can not only enhance their vehicle’s performance but also enjoy significant savings.

“We are excited to launch this rebate program as a token of appreciation to our loyal customers,” said Brad Bricker, VP of Sales & Marketing at Design Engineering Inc. “DEI Turbo Shields, especially with our new Gen 3 Titanium and Onyx products, are trusted by automotive enthusiasts and professionals alike for their effectiveness in maintaining optimal turbo performance. With this rebate offer, we aim to make our products even more accessible and affordable.”

The rebate program is applicable to select DEI Turbo Shields purchased between May 1 and July 31, 2024, at any authorized retailers nationwide (excluding eBay). Consumers can claim their cash rebate by completing the rebate form found on designengineering.com, including their original receipt and UPC label on the exterior of the box, and mailing those to DEI Mail-In Rebate, P.O. Box 763, Walled Lake, MI 48390. Please allow 6-8 weeks for processing. Take advantage of this exclusive offer and experience the benefits of DEI Turbo Shields.

For more information about DEI Turbo Shields and the rebate program, please visit designengineering.com/heat-control/turbo-shields/.

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (04.29.24) – With the beginning of Q2 2024 the 12volt industry activities are shifting into high gear. From Super Cat Fest West and Desert Storm in Lake Havasu AZ to the Jeep Beach in Daytona Beach, Sunrise Sound in Chicago to the PowerBass cruise to the Bahamas, 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. 318 465 0844 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 weekend 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 318 465 0844. 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 (04.25.24) – SEMA and the SEMA Garage, committed to advancing the automotive aftermarket industry, showcased their groundbreaking research on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) at the 2024 SAE World Congress event earlier this month. As ADAS technology proliferates in passenger cars and pickup trucks, there is a pressing need to understand how aftermarket modifications may affect the functionality of these systems. Mike Muller and Luis Morales of SEMA joined Jennifer Bastiaan of Kettering University to share results of testing performed by the SEMA Garage in Detroit.

“In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, it’s essential for us to stay ahead of the curve and understand the implications of aftermarket modifications on ADAS functionality,” said Mike Mohacsi, Vice President, SEMA Garage and OEM Relations. “Our research aims to provide valuable insights that will empower manufacturers, installers, and drivers to make informed decisions while ensuring optimal safety and performance.”

As vehicles become more complex and regulations become stricter, the aftermarket industry faces significant challenges in adapting and remaining compliant. To address these challenges, SEMA stays at the forefront of research and testing, particularly in rapidly evolving vehicle technologies such as ADAS and autonomous features. SEMA maintains a proactive approach in maintaining a comprehensive knowledge base of regulations and standards. By staying informed and engaging in open communication with regulatory bodies, SEMA can anticipate potential impacts on the aftermarket well in advance. This allows the organization to develop strategies and solutions to address any regulatory changes effectively. Moreover, collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) is essential for ensuring that aftermarket products that are installed do not compromise vehicle performance or compliance with regulations. By working closely with OEMs, SEMA can establish best practices and guidelines that help aftermarket manufacturers produce high-quality, compatible products.

In 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for the adoption of a new Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) mandating automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems on light vehicles. The announcement underscores the significance of regulatory changes. SEMA recognizes the importance of understanding the implications of these proposed standards and engaging in discussions and research to address potential impacts. SEMA would like to develop the ability to collaborate with regulatory agencies and OEMs on future regulations so that the aftermarket industry is being considered as well.

To bridge the gap in information and address the potential impact of aftermarket suspension products on ADAS features, SEMA Garage initiated a groundbreaking project. This project, focusing on a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 as a baseline, aimed to research and test the effects of various aftermarket modifications on ADAS functionalities such as lane departure warnings, forward collision warnings, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alerts. By evaluating common aftermarket pickup truck modifications like larger diameter tires, leveling kits, and lift kits, SEMA aims to provide valuable data to inform both manufacturers and consumers about the compatibility of aftermarket products with ADAS technologies.

The findings of this first-of-its-kind research endeavor, recently released in a white paper presented at SAE World Congress, have the potential to revolutionize the understanding of how aftermarket modifications influence ADAS functionality. While the results generally did not indicate significant variance in ADAS performance with the introduction of aftermarket components, some differences were observed under specific conditions, including:

• The 6-inch lift kit alerted lane departure warning, both right and left, much earlier compared to the other hardware configurations tested.
• The 3.5-inch and 6-inch lift kits both showed later forward collision warnings alert distances compared to the other hardware configurations tested, resulting in higher peak deceleration levels in the 6-inch lift kit. Both lift kits came around 16 feet (5 m) closer to the target vehicle before the alert was issued. In all cases, however, the system functioned properly; i.e., a collision with the target vehicle did not occur.
• All aftermarket configurations came closer to the target vehicle in the second braking phase of the traffic jam assist test compared to the baseline hardware configuration.

To learn more about SEMA Garage’s groundbreaking research and its implications for the aftermarket industry, and to access the white paper, please visit www.sae.org.

Key Points

• By 2028, the global market for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is projected to reach approximately $59 billion, an increase of more than $31 billion in only eight years [1]
• Manufacturers and aftermarket equipment installers must ensure ADAS technologies function properly after equipment installation.
• SEMA’s research addresses the dearth of information on the impact of aftermarket modifications on original equipment ADAS, providing a crucial starting point for future studies.

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $51.8 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind.

For more information, visit www.sema.org, www.semashow.com, www.performanceracing.com.

BELLEVILLE MI (04.25.24) Discover the future of high-performance car audio with VMAX Charge Pumps! These aren’t just any power sources; they’re a groundbreaking hybrid of battery and capacitor technology designed to elevate your audio experience. The Charge Pump is your ultimate solution for delivering massive currents to your system. It is a high-current, lightweight LTO lithium audio power source.

Pictured below is the VCP12K. Power a 12,000-watt RMS audio system with a device weighing only 15 lbs! Compared to the traditional setup requiring 300 pounds of lead-acid batteries, or DIY lithium batteries, the Charge Pumps are lightweight and easy to install. It’s engineered to handle surges and sustain power far beyond what’s possible with conventional batteries, ensuring your system plays louder, your bass hits cleaner, and your music comes through more powerfully than ever.

We recommend pairing your Charge Pump with a high-output alternator for optimal performance. Charge Pumps have built-in balancers and can safely charge at up to 17.4 Volts from your alternator, ensuring efficient power management and maximizing your system’s audio output.

The VMAX Charge Pump: Where high current meets high efficiency, transforming your vehicle into a concert hall on wheels without the burden of heavy equipment. Upgrade to a VCP12K and experience the pinnacle of audio performance. Charge pump are available in 6,000W to 18,000W sizes: VCP6K, VCP9K, VCP12K, and VCP18K 🔊 #VmaxTanks #VMAXChargePump #LightweightPowerhouse @vmaxtanks @calebvmax

For more see www.hopp.to/vmax

NASHVILLE, TN (04.24.24) – Chris Pace, Arrowhead Sales and Marketing, rolled out of Kansas City towing the JBL Dare To Listen trailer on Wednesday for the 553 mile trip to Nashville for the K-Fest event that ran April 19th -21st. Along the way he picked up JBL Regional Fred Insensee.

The Arrowhead Marketing trailer is a project that Pace created for travels the MINK states to support area retailers at store events and car shows. The trailer is loaded with JBL and Infinity speakers to connect dealers and consumers with great listening experiences. Those listening experiences are not available on a laptop or smartphone.

The JBL trailer was spotted to the left of the entrance of the event floor in Nashville. “We spent time doing demos for attendees during the show floor hours. We also showed dealers the new JBL Rallybars they are hot sellers for off-road vehicles.The new JBL source units also grabbed attention for the marine season. Fred and I found that showing the many possibiles of speakers opened dealer’s eyes” Pace offered.

Scott Hochmuth, Real Performance Marketing, and his firm’s team were in Nashville and all had a chance to hear the JBL and Infinity demos and attend training sessions. RPM represents JBL across several states in the southeastern region. “It was terrific for us to hear demos and comparisons with a couple other speaker brands installed on the trailer. The JBL and Infinity speakers delivered that ‘Live’ sound. It was was also terrific for dealers in the area had the demos from Chris and Fred“ Hochmuth related.

After the show wrap and move out on Sunday it was time to begin the trip west back to Kansas City. On the way back Chris made a stop at MACH1 in Washington MO.

The MACH1 team of owner John, Terry, Mike and Jason spent time with a JBL trailer demo. “It was very good to have Chris stop at our new store for demos. The JBL speakers on the trailer sounded terrific. Hats off to Chris for putting together the JBL Dare Listen trailer to work with dealers for store visits, store events and car shows” Terry stated.

“We have a very busy schedule ahead for 2024 for events with the JBL Dare to Listen trailer. Ut is more important than ever to in on the road working with brick and mortar dealers to drive overall business for their stores” Pace concluded.

Visit www.jbl.com for more.