Industry

Alpine Now Shipping the OPTIM™6 6-Channel Sound Processor with Automatic Sound Tuning

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (10.10.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. is now shipping the Alpine OPTIM™6, a 6-channel Hi-Res Sound Processor with Automatic Sound Tuning.

Following the launch of the Alpine OPTIM™8, which debuted a powered, 8-channel processor with Automatic Sound Tuning, the OPTIM™6 offers a nearly identical feature set in a smaller, 6-channel configuration and no built-in amplifier. This intentional design positions this product as a starting point for the customer looking to easily integrate and elevate the performance of their factory sound system or be a means to build or add to an amplified aftermarket sound system.

“The competitive edge of the OPTIM™ line is its versatility,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales at Alps Alpine North America. “The OPTIM™ products are for any customer who walks in the door wanting better sound. The OPTIM™6 takes this idea a step further by offering an easy integration and sound tuning piece at a more approachable price point.”

In addition to its versatility, the OPTIM™6 continues in the quest to simplify sound processing. A simple, self-guided tuning process via the OPTIM™ IOS app (available for iPhone/iPad) or PC app with the KTX-CSP1 External Mic kit (sold separately) quickly and precisely measures the vehicle’s interior. This innovative Auto-EQ software analyzes the vehicle’s acoustic environment and intelligently adjusts to “optimize” the audio output for the vehicle and provide the best possible listening experience.

The Alpine OPTIM™6 PXE-C60-60 is available now for $399.95 and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on http://www.alpine-usa.com for details.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

SEMA: Best New Vehicles for Aftermarket Announced

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.10.23) – SEMA Show exhibitors have voted on the top trend-setting vehicles in the automotive aftermarket. Voted by experts and innovators in the automotive specialty equipment industry, these leading vehicles represent the best business opportunities for aftermarket manufacturers and are vying for awards in six categories at this year’s Show.

The winning vehicle in each category will be announced prior to the SEMA Show Monday Reveal at 5 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Held the evening before the opening of the Show, the Monday Reveal gives media and exhibitors a sneak peek at a few of the more than 1,500 vehicles that will be on display during the week.

The 2023 SEMA Show is receiving tremendous support from the automotive aftermarket and is forecasted to return to historic levels as one of the most highly anticipated trade shows in the country.

Finalists for SEMA Awards (in alphabetical order):

SEMA Car of the Year
Ford Mustang
Toyota Supra

SEMA Mid-Size Truck of the Year
Jeep Gladiator
Toyota Tacoma

SEMA Full-Size Truck of the Year
Ford F-Series
Toyota Tundra

SEMA 4×4/SUV of the Year
Ford Bronco
Jeep Wrangler

SEMA Sport Compact Car of the Year
Nissan Z
Toyota GR86

SEMA Electric Vehicle of the Year
Ford Lightning
Lexus RZ

The SEMA Award finalists represent exhibiting automakers that support the aftermarket with accessory-friendly models based on their potential for customization. Exhibitors choose to develop products for new vehicles that have wide consumer appeal, and regularly collaborate with automakers through such programs as SEMA Measuring Sessions and Tech Transfer.

To learn more about the 2023 SEMA Show taking place Oct. 31–Nov. 3, in Las Vegas, Nev., visit www.semashow.com.

30 Canadian Automobility Audison Dealers Headed to Italy for the Italian Experience

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VILLE ST-LAURENT, QUEBEC (10.09.23) – In September Automobility was able to send 30 Canadian Audison dealers to Italy to visit Elettromedia’s headquarters, for “THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE”

Dealers enjoyed a private preview of new products and exchanged valuable industry information, while touring the engineering and design aspects of Ellettromedia.

Rob Nelson, President of Automobility Distribution, related “The trip was amazing. Virtually every minute of the day our hosts were taking us to museums or treating us to a fabulous meal. We did see upcoming products also on this terrific team building trip.” Automobility Team members making the trip included Rob Nelson, Michael Berger, Steve Coulombe, Richard Wade, Terry Letteney, Scott Kerpan and Justin Bond.

TRIP WAS NOT ALL BUISNESS;Elettromedia based in Marche region of Italy invited Automobility and it’s Canadian Audison partners to experience the beauty of some of Italy’s most historic and beautiful communities, as well as the region’s rich wine and culinary heritage, breathtaking scenery, and the Adriatic Coast’s.

Day One – After a fun day visiting the Ducati museum, everyone settled down for an enjoyable dinner at the Hotel Terme Salvarola.

Day two – Another highlight of the trip was a stop to the Ferrari Museum, which is now hosting an exhibition called “Innovation at Maranello,” which presents some of the most important vehicles in the history of the Prancing Horse brand in an entirely new setting. The exhibit portrays the history of the Maranello label from a place of innovation.

Day Three – The group went on a corporate tour of Elettromedia’s headquarters, met with key decision-makers, and spent the day learning more about the Audison line of products.

After a great time discovering the place where all ideas are born and grow, the crew headed to Ristorante Della Rosa In Sirolo to sample fine wines and socialize over aperitifs. The organised wine list included the greatest regional, national, and worldwide brands, along with fish specialties, fried dishes, and seafood crudités.

After a satisfying dinner, the group headed to Italy’s largest indoor kart track for some friendly competition.

Day Four – Leonardo Doffo, the Technical Product Marketing Manager at Elettromedia, provided our team with product training on the newest offerings from Elettromedia. The day continued followed by local winery and wine tasting at Terra Fageto Wine Cellar and finished the day having dinner at Lu Focaro Restaurant in In Torre Di Palme. This restaurant is known for its fantastic panoramic balcony on top of a hill dominating the coast and the Adriatic Sea.

Day Five – Everyone spent the day in the town of Gadara. The ancient town is characterized by a double line of medieval walls and by the massive castles. The Electtromedia team treated our staff and Canadian Audison partners for another amazing Italian cuisine.

For more information about “THE ITALIAN EXPEREINCE” go to https://theitalianexperience.eu/

Nelson concluded “Automobility is very fortunate to have Ellettromedia as a partner, they were incredible hosts to us and our dealers”, President of Automobility Distribution.

Automobility Distribution is Canada’s largest mobile electronics distributor. Headquartered in Montreal, along with offices and warehousing facilities in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. For more information on AutoMobility Distribution, visit automobilitydistribution.com.

MAXPRO Window Films at the International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off

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VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (10.09.23) – MAXPRO Window Films was a proud sponsor of the 2023 Int’l Window Film Conference and Tint-Off that took place September 20th-22nd at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. MAXPRO team members Amanda Scott, Kari Cox, Ashley Sasser and Allison Parker travelled from the company’s Whiteville NC headquarters and plant to showcase the company’s latest window films and paint protection films. In addition MAXPRO provided MAXPRO Window Films for the Tint-Off Competition.

The Team in the booth set up and ready. Amanda Scott, Kari Cox, Ashley Sasser and Allison Parker.

“Having a booth at the Conference to connect with dealers and installers was very productive. We scanned close to 100 dealer badges, talked to many of our MAXPRO dealers and supported Tint-Off Competitors. Ricky Miller, Joshua Maharjh, Joe Guzman and Marcus Quintana plus Christopher Peterson were winners in the Tint Off Competition” Allison Parker related.

Allison Parker in a fun shot with a Conference Bear attendee.
A competitor in the Tint-Off.

During the conference the MAXPRO Team members interacted with attendees to learn ways the company could offer more products, services and information. The Virginia Beach event also served as a warmup for the SEMA show in Las Vegas October 31st through November 3rd. MAXPRO will have a booth in the West Hall at SEMA 2023.

More Tint-Off Competiton

Concluding Parker offered “We are really looking forward to the SEMA Show. We will showcase our window films plus our latest paint protection films (PPF) which offer strong, long lasting protection to keep a vehicle’s surfaces factory fresh against road hazards, sand, salt and snow.”

The MAXPRO Window Films will be on site at SEMA 2023 in the West Hall, Booth 54153.

For more see www.maxprofilms.com.

SEMA Show Presents the MotorTrend Celebrity Showcase

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.06.23) – Organizers of the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, are excited to announce the all-new “MotorTrend Celebrity Showcase” to this year’s lineup!   

SEMA and MotorTrend have partnered to bring you a truly one-of-a-kind experience, which is now open for registration here. Attendees of this track will be treated to a live interview session, moderated by auto specialist and television host Ant Anstead, and featuring some of the biggest names from MotorTrend:   

  • Amir Bentatou (“Super Street Garage”): Owner and designer at RS Future, Amir shares his deep knowledge of all things speed and style with “Super Street Garage.” 
  • John “Nads” Naderi (“Super Street Garage”): Former editor-in-chief of “Super Street Magazine,” Nads has been at the forefront of the tuner scene since its inception.  
  • Lucky Costa (“HOT ROD Garage”): With a breadth of experience from domestics to Euros to Datsuns, Lucky is out to prove that anything can be a hot rod if you do it right.  
  • Alex Taylor (“HOT ROD Garage”) – Alex has been building and racing for as long as she’s been able to grip a wrench. As the newest host of “HOT ROD Garage,” her thirst for horsepower continues to propel the show forward.  
  • Dave Kindig (“Bitchin’ Rides”): Host of “Bitchin’ Rides,” Kindig and crew turn out some of the most creative, one-of-a-kind vehicles on the planet.  
  • Kevin “KevDogg” Schiele (“Bitchin’ Rides”): Working for Kindig-It Design, where he runs the 27,000-sq. ft. shop, Schiele has an unparalleled passion for the auto industry, and spends long hours in the shop making sure every build is just right.  
  • Ant Anstead (Moderator): As the co-founder and chief engineer of Radford, he is responsible for overseeing the building process of every single bespoke, handmade vehicle to meet exact customer specifications.   

This diverse crew of automotive experts and media personalities, will share their experiences in the world of hot rods, restorations, restyling markets, what motivates them, and more.

Get to know this group, while learning, laughing and taking in advice from the perspectives of these household names in the industry.   

This showcase is free and open to all SEMA Show attendees. It will be an exciting event, so register now while there’s still time. 

MotorTrend Celebrity Showcase at the SEMA Show

  • Tuesday, October 31
  • 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. PT
  • Location: West Hall (W326) 

REGISTER HERE!

Tint World Announces New Ownership for Charlotte-Matthews Location

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CHARLOTTE, NC (10.06.23) — Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced a new ownership team at its Charlotte-Matthews location, continuing the National Automotive Styling Centers franchise’s ongoing success in the region.

With new owners Zach Cohen and Zach Nussbaum, Tint World Charlotte-Matthews provides comprehensive automotive service and products for drivers in Charlotte and the surrounding area, including the industry’s leading window tint solutions, automotive paint protection film, wheels and tires, audio and video, safety and security technology, custom lighting, detailing and more.

“We’re excited about enhancing Tint World’s presence in this area and building on the company’s record of success in North Carolina,” Cohen said. “With Tint World’s world-class franchise systems and support, we can focus on delivering unbeatable products and services that meet the needs of every automobile owner and automotive enthusiast in our community.”

Tint World Charlotte-Matthews, located at 9129 Monroe Road, Suite 100, Charlotte-Matthews, North Carolina 28270, serves the Matthews, Rock Hill, Harrisburg, Concord, Pineville, Monroe, Indian Trail, and Weddington areas. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (704) 941-3058 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/nc/charlotte-matthews-084/.

“Zach Cohen and Zach Nussbaum have shown how franchisees can quickly leverage Tint World’s franchise system to see immediate results and unlock further opportunities,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Their passion and commitment make them a great fit for the Tint World family, and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow with them.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

KICKER Component Upgrades Complete the New Harley-Davidson Audio Kits

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STILLWATER, OK (10.05.23) – KICKER delivers even more power and better fitment into a pair of all-in-one-package, Audio Upgrade Kits for specific Harley-Davidson bikes and their fairings. These plug-and-play kits for 2015-and-newer Road Glides and 2014-and-newer Street/Electra/Ultra Glides will be available for purchase at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online. Soon to be introduced to the world on the KICKER UnMASKED! Live™ streamed show, Audio Upgrade Kits for Harley-Davidson bikes will retail for $899.99 and will also be available for purchase online at www.kicker.com.

Specifically designed to fit the 2015-and-newer Road Glide “shark-nose” fairing and the 2014-and-newer Street/Electra/Ultra Glide “bat-wing” fairings, these entirely plug-and-play audio kits come complete with a set of reengineered, high-efficiency speakers, a redesigned four-channel 300-watt amplifier with bracket, pre-measured and pre-terminated wiring, custom grilles and all the hardware. The kit uses factory holes and mounting points, with no cutting or drilling required.

Each kit contains new KICKER PS-Series 6.5-inch Coaxial Powersports Speakers that are completely weather-proof, featuring lightweight neodymium magnets and strong polypropylene woofer cones. Made with the rider in mind, the lightweight speaker design does not affect bike handling while playing at extreme volume levels to cut through the wind and road noise.

The equally new KICKER KPX300.4 Compact Powersports Amplifier delivers 75 watts to each of its four channels, making it ready for system expansion if a Harley-Davidson Tour Pak is attached or added in the future.

For more information, consumers can log onto kicker.com/motorcycle-audio-kits.

IBEX Announces Winners of the 2023 Innovation Awards

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TAMPA, FL (10.05.23) – The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) announced today the winners of the 2023 IBEX Innovation Awards Program. The program is managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by Boating Writers International (BWI). The judges selected 13 Innovation Award winners and four honorable mentions from nearly 100 entries submitted by exhibiting marine industry companies. Awards were presented during the annual Industry Breakfast, Innovation Awards Presentation, and Keynote held Tuesday, October 3, 2023, from 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. All products submitted to the IBEX Innovation Awards are on display along Innovation Way, located on the 2nd floor Waterview Lounge of the Tampa Convention Center throughout the days of the Show. Products can also be viewed on the online showcase.

The winners of the 2023 IBEX Innovation Awards are:

Boat Care and Maintenance – PowerTech! Propellers, Seascour by PowerTech!/Hendry: Judge Julia Carleton said, “Seascour combats scale and barnacles at the chemical level by breaking down the calcium bonds using an organic, non-corrosive solution. From flushing heat exchangers to cleaning hulls, the environmental benefits are far-reaching.”

Honorable Mention: SeaWide Distribution, Hempel Silic One

Boatbuilding Methods and Materials (DUAL WINNERS) – beSpline, Shaped Foam Kit: Judge Tim Murphy said, “One of the longstanding problems in composite boat building is how to turn flat foam panels into the complex curves of a boat hull or deck. beSpline’s new North American facility uses heat to ‘thermoform’ flat panels into complex curves, omitting kerfs, that are delivered to boatbuilders in kit form. The result is lighter, stronger, higher-quality boat structures.”

Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl, Infinity Grip: Judge Andy Adams said, “Infinity Luxury woven flooring with self-adhesive backing delivers significant labor and cost savings. Installation is simple and best of all requires no mess.”

Boatyard and Marina Hardware and Software – VoltSafe, VoltSafe Marine: Judge Ed Sherman noted, “Voltsafe is the future of dockside shorepower systems for marinas and boats. It revolutionizes shore power connectivity by addressing critical drawbacks of traditional methods.”

Honorable Mention: Sunstream Boat Lifts, Sunstream Power System (SPS™)

Deck Equipment and Hardware – Lippert, Lewmar® Venta™ Pontoon Winch: Judge Steve Davis observed, “The underdeck pontoon winch is completely waterproof and stays clear of passengers on deck. The unit slides into a mount so the winch is easily installed and removed as seasons change, and the spring-loaded roller keeps the anchor under the deck until deployed or retrieved.”

Electric Motor/Battery Powered Propulsion/Hybrids – TEMO, TEMO 450: Judge Steve Davis noted, “The simple, lightweight design of the Temo 450 electric motor is an innovative way to power small boats and dinghies. The tubular design with built-in motor and battery is waterproof, simple, efficient, and easy to mount and operate.”

Electrical Systems – ARCO Marine, Zeus High Energy Alternator Regulator: Judge Ben Stein stated, “Arco’s Zeus answers the call for advanced alternator regulation aboard today’s boats and their increasingly complex DC power systems. With connectivity capabilities not previously seen in an alternator regulator, Zeus delivers the configuration, insight, and diagnostics needed for advanced, high-output 12-, 24-, and 48-volt systems.”

Honorable Mention: Navico Group, Mastervolt Mac Plus 48V

Entertainment –Hertz Marine, HTX 8H S-FL-G: Judge Ryan Gullang observed, “Thanks to Hertz’s novel approach to horn design, the HTX 8H S-FL-G tower speakers delivers crystal-clear audio well outside the wake.”

Furnishings, and Interior Parts – Roswell Marine, Auto-Rolling Fabric System: Judge Tim Murphy said, “Roswell Marine uses the magic of slap bracelets to solve a longstanding problem in marine canvas – how to roll sections of biminis or dodgers when they’re opened up. With Roswell’s Auto Rolling Fabric System, boaters simply unzip sections of the canvas, and it automatically rolls out of the way – no snaps, no Velcro.”

Mechanical Systems – Scanstrut, ATMOS 12V Integrated Airstation: Judge Ryan Gullang noted, “Scanstrut’s ATMOS 12-volt Integrated Airstation is an elegant and effective solution to the relative drudgery of inflating water toys.”

OEM Electronics – Garmin USA, GPSMAP® 9227 with Garmin BlueNet™: Judge Ben Stein said, “The GPSMap 9227 is a quantum leap forward for marine navigation electronics. 4K resolution on its large display means more information at the operators’ fingertips. Plus, dramatically faster processors and gigabit Ethernet ensure nearly instant response.”

Honorable Mention: Syntec Industries, Murano Multifunction Display

Propulsion Parts, Propellers – Volvo Penta, Joystick Driving: Judge Steve Davis noted, “Joystick control has been around, but primarily used for docking, and Volvo Penta has taken to new heights with the innovative ability to drive the boat without touching the steering wheel. The system integrates shifting, steering, and throttle and easily installs into the driver’s armrest for ergonomic driving and comfort.”

Safety Equipment – WIF-Pro, WIF-Pro: Judge Ed Sherman said, “The float/sensor technology of the WIF-Pro offers outboard boat owners a safety feature when out at sea through a fuel filter system with an externally mounted sensor ring that detects and alarms the captain when five ounces of water gets in the fuel system. Once the filter bowl is drained, the system clears and you’re back underway.”

“The participating exhibitors in this year’s Innovation Awards program have successfully showcased how incredibly forward-thinking the marine industry is,” said Anne Dunbar, IBEX Show Director. “The products entered include a remarkable level of ingenuity and innovation in product design and development. We’d like to thank the judges for their time and hard work in deciding which products would be selected in each category. Congratulations to all our winning exhibitors and a big thank you to everyone who participated.”

IBEX is scheduled to return to the Tampa Convention Center, with IBEX 2024 Show dates set for October 1 – 3, 2024. For more information, visit www.ibexshow.com.

Maxxsonics Attending 2023 IBEX Show

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LIBERTYVILLE, IL (09.29.23) – Maxxsonics is excited to be in attendance at the 2023 IBEX Show.
The 2023 IBEX Show takes place from October 3-5, 2023, at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida, USA. IBEX takes the Marine industry to the next level with thousands of boat builders, manufacturers, and suppliers in attendance focusing on product innovations, insights, and industry connections. Maxxsonics is thrilled to partake in the show while focusing on expanding Marine product reach to consumers and dealers.

One of the newest products Maxxsonics will be showcasing at the 2023 IBEX Show will be the ALL-NEW MB Quart GMR7V1 source unit. The ALL-NEW flagship leader in MB Quart source units is leading the way with more customizable audio features and enhancements that add depth to every MB Quart listening experience. With deeper features like an integrated four-button auxiliary switching system, Apple CarPlay, and protection against the conditions with it being completely waterproof – the GMR7V1 is the next evolution of source units from MB Quart. Maxxsonics will be entering the ALL-NEW MB Quart GMR7V1 7-inch, waterproof, touchscreen, CarPlay source unit into the NMMA Innovation Award Show (which takes place at the 2023 IBEX Show).

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “MB Quart is excited to be back at IBEX. Although Mother Nature has tried everything to keep us away – it looks like this is our year! We’re coming prepared to show off some incredible new products, including the illuminated NP1 speaker line and, of course, our new GMR-7 touchscreen source unit with Apple CarPlay.”

Alden Stiefel, President of Maxxsonics, mentioned, “IBEX is a perfect opportunity to expand and grow our Marine reach for Maxxsonics as a company and MB Quart as a leading Marine audio brand. I am also very excited to be showcasing our ALL-NEW MB Quart GMR7V1 source unit at IBEX 2023 and the many features it has for on-the-water consumers and also dealers. Maxxsonics is looking forward to expanding our Marine reach horizons, and IBEX presents a perfect opportunity for that.”

The 2023 IBEX Show is shaping up to be another HUGE success for Maxxsonics and MB Quart. Register TODAY and get your tickets NOW! We hope to see you under the Florida sun in Tampa!

Follow the link to learn show details and complete event information on the 2023 IBEX Show.
https://www.ibexshow.com/

Follow the link for registration options.
https://xpressreg.net/register/ibex1023/landing.asp

Visit maxxsonics.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Launches Off-Road Side Mirror Ditch Lights for 2019-23 RAM 1500 Trucks

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METAIRIE, LA (09.29.23) – ORACLE Lighting, the market leader in innovative LED solutions and high-quality automotive lighting products, announces its new LED Off-Road Side Mirror Ditch Lights for 2019-23 Ram 1500 DT trucks. The lights integrate seamlessly with factory mirrors and feature a matte black housing for a rugged look while incorporating the safety, functionality and durability ORACLE Lighting products are known for.

Engineered to eliminate the dead zone created by forward-focused headlights, ORACLE Lighting’s 2019-23 Ram 1500 DT LED Off-Road Side Mirror Ditch Lights (part number 5914-001) integrate high-powered LED light bars into factory-style side mirror housings for easy installation and a near-OEM appearance. The 24 LEDs produce approximately 2,250 lumens utilizing a 45-degree beam angle to optimize the driver’s peripheral field of vision. This broad field of light makes them perfect for situations where additional visibility of the driving surface and potential obstructions or hazards is needed. The tough housings are made from rugged polycarbonate, which is twice as strong as the factory ABS components. A set of anodized rock guards protects the LED acrylic lenses.

“While headlight technology has come a long way, there is still a glaring dead spot to the sides of vehicles from the factory. This becomes critically important when navigating around potential obstacles or hazards,” said Justin Hartenstein, ORACLE Lighting’s director of development. “Our side mirror ditch lights eliminate this with their powerful LEDs and 45-degree beam angle. And, unlike traditional ditch lights, they integrate into the factory side mirrors to provide a more streamlined appearance.”

The ORACLE 2019-23 Ram 1500 DT LED Off-Road Side Mirror Ditch Lights fit all Ram 1500 DT models not equipped with factory tow mirrors, including TRX and Rebel. MSRP is $399.95 and a two-year warranty is included.

The new products join ORACLE Lighting’s line of direct-fit products for Ram DT-series trucks, including the 2019-23 RAM Rebel/TRX Front Bumper Flush LED Light Bar System and 2019-23 Ram 1500 RGBW+A Headlight DRL Upgrade Kit featuring ORACLE’s ColorSHIFT technology.

For more information on ORACLE Lighting and its complete product line, please visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776 or email info@oraclelights.com.