Tint World Ranks No. 4,755 on the 2023 Inc. 5000

Posted on August 16, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Tint World.

NEW YORK, NY (08.17.23) – Inc. has revealed that Tint World Automotive Styling Centers ranks No. 4,755 on the 2023 Inc. 5000, its annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other household name brands gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“To celebrate our eighth year as one of the fastest-growing brands in America is an honor and testament to the proven systems we’ve established to help franchise owners succeed,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “We’ve invested heavily in developing repeatable processes that work, training that helps owners and their teams reach the next level, partnerships with vendors that provide the very best automotive solutions, and marketing that elevates our brand. 2023 has been a tremendous year of growth, both for our leadership team and our franchise footprint, and we anticipate a strong trajectory into 2024.”

The Inc. 5000 class of 2023 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital, and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. Among this year’s top 500 companies, the average median three-year revenue growth rate ticked up to an astonishing 2,238 percent. In all, this year’s Inc. 5000 companies have added1,187,266 jobs to the economy over the past three years.

For complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, location, and other criteria, go to http://www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc.magazine, available on newsstands beginning Tuesday, August 23.

“Running a business has only gotten harder since the end of the pandemic,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. “To make the Inc. 5000—with the fast growth that requires—is truly an accomplishment. Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that are building our future.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Metra Electronics to Host Training Sessions at Dallas KnowledgeFest

Posted on August 16, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged KnowledgeFest, Metra.

HOLLY HILL, FL (08.17.23) – Metra Electronics will attend KnowledgeFest at the Dallas Convention Center and Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, Texas, August 25-27, to showcase their latest aftermarket installation products and host new training sessions. They will display a 2023 Ford Bronco, fully customized with Metra products, at their booth, #811. Metra’s training sessions will cover new Shuriken Lithium Series batteries, dash kits for the newest vehicle applications, integrations for Tesla, next-generation Axxess DSP products, innovations from iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems, and more! Attendees will also learn about Metra’s new dealer-only brands; Proscenium, featuring high-quality audio products, and Tsunami, featuring clean wire solutions for audio installations. Training sessions will include:

“Metra’s 2023 New Products Overview” – August 25th at 12:30 PM
Overview and education on Metra’s newest products launched at the 2022 SEMA Show. This training covers Shuriken’s new line of lithium-ion and lithium-iron batteries, dash kits for the newest vehicle applications, integrations for Tesla, next-generation Axxess DSP products, innovations from iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems, and more! Attendees will also learn about Metra’s new dealer-only brands, Proscenium and Tsunami.

“Axxess New Product Overview” – August 25th at 1:45 PM
Learn about the newest integration accessories from Axxess, designed to help installers deliver upgraded sound systems and everyday convenience to drivers with less labor and work in the install bay. This training will cover new vehicle-specific DSP packages, amp retention interfaces, STOP/START engine override interfaces, AXTC Series interfaces, line output converters, DSP T-harnesses, and more.

“Proscenium LOCs and Tsunami Wiring, Our Dealer-Only Product Lines” – August 25th at 3:00 PM
Two new dealer-only brands have been added under the Metra Electronics umbrella. Proscenium offers high-quality products that every installer needs when designing a flexible audio system, including High-Voltage Active Line Output Converters (LOCs), Premium Active LOCs with Bass Restoration, and Premium Load Resistors. This session will also cover new clean wire solutions such as audio connections, power, ground, and speaker wire, amp installation kits, battery terminals, distribution blocks, fuse holders, and more from Metra’s newly revived Tsunami brand.

“New Motorcycle & PowerSports Upgrades” – August 26th at 4:15 PM
New accent lighting, driving lights, audio accessories, and more are designed to fit select Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Can-AM Rykers. New products covered will include a 7″ Reflector Headlight with Full Halo, 4.5″ Reflector Passing Lights with Full Halo, a 16-Piece Chasing LED Strip Kit, Cut-In Saddlebag Lids, a Vent Grille Light, Keystone Lights, new Speaker adapter harnesses, a new Chasing Accent Lighting Kit, and much more. This training will show you how to easily stylize your customers’ motorcycles and powersports vehicles with less time spent on wiring and custom fabrication.

“Simplify your Install with Axxess DSPs” – August 26th at 5:30 PM
The AXDSP-X and AXDSP-L lines are patented DSP products that help simplify installation and provide affordable audio solutions. This training will cover Axxess DSPs, highlight new vehicle-specific products, and showcase the newest app features. Metra’s experts will explain how these solutions can increase sales in the showroom and decrease installation time, as well as how to use and set up Axxess DSPs through the app for complete tuning control when to use the DSP “Lite” versus “X” solutions, and more.

Metra’s customers can register for the KnowledgeFest event at no cost using Metra’s VIP code, available by request from their sales representative. Once registered for the event, attendees will also need to register online at KnowledgeFest.org for each training session they will attend.

Visit metraonline.com for more.

Alpine Continues to Invest in Alpine Park with the First AI Character Integration on Roblox

Posted on August 15, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Alpine.

AUBURN HILLS, MI (08.16.23) – Following the launch of “Alpine Park” on Roblox in May, Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) continues to invest in the virtual world and younger fan base by adding a new AI (artificial intelligence) character integration to the game experience. Designed in collaboration with Inworld AI, Trigger XR, and Stage3 Agency, Alpine is the first commercialized brand to launch this feature on Roblox.

“We’re no stranger to having ‘firsts’ in the car audio industry, but now we’re excited to be the first commercialized brand to introduce an AI Character integration on the Roblox platform,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director of the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “This feature will be instrumental in engaging with the younger generation and provides them with a unique opportunity to learn about the Alpine brand in a more casual and approachable environment that’s tailored to their interests.”

The new integration, powered by Inworld AI, a developer platform for AI characters, allows users to chat with NPCs (non-playable characters) modeled after an Alpine “Brand Specialist” and an Alpine “Fandom Enthusiast.” The characters are preprogrammed to discuss Alpine’s product story and fandom using custom knowledge bases and distinct personalities designed to align with the Alpine brand.

The Alpine Brand Specialist, “Cohen,” represents the Alpine brand and is a wealth of product, tech, and service knowledge. His main objective is to educate users on the brand, help them feel empowered in their purchase decisions, and visit their local Alpine Authorized Retailer.

The Alpine Fandom Enthusiast, “Carlos,” is a longtime lover of the Alpine brand who enjoys an active weekend lifestyle. Donning the iconic Alpine “Chiclet” tee (available for purchase on the Alpine website www.alpine-usa.com), his main objective is to meet and engage with fellow Alpine fans and share their enthusiasm for the products and services of the brand.

In addition to providing a unique brand experience for the younger generation, the launch of this feature positions Alpine for future retail opportunities on and off the platform.

“Trigger XR is so excited to work with Alpine on this groundbreaking Roblox launch,” said Jason Yim, Founder and CEO of Trigger XR. “Not only will we be creating a fun and engaging playground and a showcase of Alpine’s products and personality, but it will also be the world’s first commercialization of Inworld’s AI character platform into Roblox. We believe this pioneering approach – applying character AI from the games industry to solve retail challenges – will set an early blueprint for both virtual and physical shopping experiences in the near future.”

Users can find the characters in Alpine Park on the “showroom” floor near the Alpine demo vehicles.

Roblox is a mass multiplayer platform with over 200 million active users each month and can be accessed online on a computer or PC, a smartphone via Google Play or the App Store, an Xbox gaming system, or a VR headset. Alpine Park can be found by searching “Alpine Park” on the Roblox platform or at https://www.roblox.com/games/12956278832/Alpine-Park.

Design Engineering Intros New Custom Cut Van Insulation Kits

Posted on August 15, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Design Engineering.

AVON LAKE, OH (08.16.23) – “Van life” just got a little bit cooler, thanks to Design Engineering, Inc.’s (DEI) newly expanded line of custom cut van insulation kits.

DEI’s custom cut van insulation kits are now available for the 2023 model year of the Ford Transit, and the 2022 Dodge Ram ProMaster cargo vans. Custom insulation kits are also available for select models of (high-roof) 2007 and up model years Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans.

“Transit and ProMaster custom cut insulation kits are an excellent addition to our line of Sprinter van kits,” said Mike Buca, product manager at DEI. “They take the guesswork out of creating a cool, quiet and comfortable interior for your Transit and ProMaster vans.”

These custom cut insulation kits include pre-cut insulation pieces for each area of your interior. Installation is quick and easy, using custom-cut 30mm and 12mm thick D-Mat insulation that keeps the cabin a comfortable temperature and Boom Mat damping material that eliminates squeaks, rattles and vibrations.

Cargo vans remain popular for commercial, recreational and personal use. DEI offers a variety of products to make your cargo van more comfortable for whatever the road may have in store.

For more information about custom cut van insulation kits or any of DEI’s complete line of heat and sound control products, visit www.designengineering.com.

SSV Works Announces Plug-&-Play Subwoofer Kits for Select Polaris Models

Posted on August 14, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SSV Works.

OXNARD, CA (08.15.23) – SSV Works has announced new plug-&-play subwoofer add-on kits for select Polaris models with Ride Command. Now available with an MSRP of $999.99, the three updated kits now include a 10-inch SSV Works V-Series subwoofer.

“With a thumping 1,000 Watt MAX (500 Watt RMS) SSV Works V-Series subwoofer, these kits are a perfect and easy add-on to select Polaris models that come with stock factory audio that don’t include subwoofers,” explained Trevor Kaplan, SSV Works CEO. “Complete with pre-installed subwoofer, subwoofer enclosure, 500-watt Kicker mono amp, and plug-&-play wiring, these SSV Works kits add deep, clean bass to your system and could not be easier to install.”

The new kits are available for the following:

Polaris Ranger w/Ride-Command (RG4-1VRC)
Polaris RZR w/Ride-Command (RZ34-1VRC)
Polaris RZR Pro Series w/Ride-Command (RZ5-1VRC)

With its convenient plug-&-play solution, no soldering, cutting, or crimping is required. Simply bolt down the subwoofer enclosure, run the wiring, turn the key, and go. It is that simple.

“The kits’ fit and finish make it look as though it came straight from the factory and not stick out like a sore thumb,” Kaplan added. “Trail ready, SSV Works equipment are built with both performance and durability in mind. Mud, dirt, water, or snow, SSV Works audio systems can handle it all.”

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

New Videos Explore Emerging Engine Technology, Alternative Fuels and Regulation

Posted on August 14, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged SEMA.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.15.23) – SEMA members who would like to stay informed on emerging engine technology can watch three new videos by the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) that will delve into electric vehicle (EV) technology, alternative fuels and the changing landscape of the automotive aftermarket.

The first video, set to be released on August 30, features a conversation on “Electric Vehicles and The Changing Landscape of the Automotive Aftermarket” by Bob Morreale of The Tuning School and Karen Salvaggio of Scorpion EV. The discussion will help industry members understand how OEMs are moving forward with electrification via hybrids or battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and how this has sparked an entirely new industry of electric aftermarket vehicles and products.

Viewers will gain insight into current and anticipated legislation adoption that will develop over the next 10 years, as well as the pros and cons of EVs and aftermarket opportunities.

With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposing new federal emissions standards intended to dramatically increase sales of EVs, ETTN’s video “How Companies Are Navigating Regulation and Pivoting to Hybrid and EV” on September 13 will effectively dive into the various fuel innovation technologies that are often ignored on the road to zero emissions. Viewers will gain a better understanding of BEVs, biofuels and hydrogen technologies and the regulations, opportunities and challenges that come with each. This insightful video is led by Rob Simons of Automotive Consulting Services, and Tobi Tubiak of Ricardo.

During “Biofuels – Continuing the Conversation” on September 27, viewers will learn how biofuels have progressed since ETTN’s first live chat on the topic published in 2021. (Watch the first installment here).

As the industry continues to look for fuel alternatives, biofuels may become the in-between that automobile manufacturers can use for performance ICE vehicles alongside their EV fleet. Tune in to hear from Ian Lehn, founder of BOOSTane, and Bjorn Noack, director at Bosch, as they explore where the aftermarket and internal combustion engines (ICE) will be in the next 15 years. Other topics addressed are legislation that supports and hinders biofuel development, companies that are currently investing in this technology and whether or not the average enthusiast has access to biofuels.

Each video will go live on the ETTN Facebook page at 12:00 p.m. PDT on the day of its release. Industry members are invited to tune in at that time and join the conversation with one another in the comments.

Popular Nakamichi 10.1-inch Floating Wireless Receiver is Back

Posted on August 13, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Nakamichi.

MIAMI, FL (08.14.23) – Nakamichi Car Audio recently received a large shipment of its popular NA3625-WUX floating face Bluetooth receiver.

The single DIN 10.1-inch adjustable screen receiver first began shipping in March of this year. The unit offers wired or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus a whole host of attributes including 4-volt front and rear RCA outputs, 4-volt subwoofer RCA outputs, 10-band EQ (+/- 12dB), multi-color button illumination, SWC (Steering Wheel Control) 3.5mm input jack, quick USB charging and 4-way screen adjustment (side to side 15-degrees and up or down tilt of 25-degrees). An improved user menu with Rapid Gesture Touch Screen includes other new features such as:

*Jason Proios, Product Development & Technical Services Manager for Nakamichi seen holding a NA3625-WUX fresh from the pallets that arrived last week.*

Simplified Digital Time Delay
Adjustable Low Pass Crossover
Adjustable High Pass Crossover
Advanced Subwoofer Control
720P High Def Back-up Camera Output
Customizable Wallpaper

“This is our most advanced receiver to date”, stated Robin McNeal, National Sales Manager for Nakamichi Car Audio. “The new operating system has been openly embraced by our dealers”. The NA3525-WUX is currently the flagship of the Nakamichi line in the USA. MSRP is $450.00

Nakamichi will once again be exhibiting at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas October 31 through November 3, 2023.

For more information visit www.nakamichicaraudio.com or contact Diplomat Trading, the exclusive importer for Nakamichi Car Audio in the United States (305) 594-0437 www.diplomattrading.com.

Aegis Distribution to Become Rainbow Audio Distributor for North America

Posted on August 13, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged Aegis Distribution.

VACAVILLE, CA (08.14.23) – Aegis Distribution Inc. (ADi) has announced a new collaboration with the well known Rainbow Audio. This partnership will allow ADi to carry another exquisite line of car audio speakers and amplifiers, all engineered with German precision by Rainbow Audio.

Rainbow gained fame in the early 2000s for their remarkable speaker offerings. They are now returning with enhanced versions of those beloved products, complemented by a more comprehensive selection of speaker options. Additionally, Rainbow’s new line includes amplifiers ranging from Class AB sound quality amplifiers to super-efficient class D micro amps. The latter delivers a clean, clear 120W RMS at just 2.5” x 3.5”, making them ideal for Electrics and Motorsports.

“Anybody around in the early 2000s is already familiar with Rainbow products,” stated ADi president Scott Welch. “We have requests from several companies, but we actually went looking for Rainbow. In conversations with dealers, they were asking us to bring it back and are anxious to be able to have Rainbow back in their stores.”

Rainbow’s comeback underscores its commitment to excellence, maintaining the qualities that first made it a household name while integrating the latest advancements in audio technology. With this reintroduction, ADi continues to be a destination for audio enthusiasts of all levels, providing quality, innovation, and satisfaction.

ADi, headquartered in Vacaville, California, was formed in 2022 by a group of manufacturers and investors with the goal of bringing high-end car audio products to the Americas, tailored and fine tuned to fit the unique needs of these regions.

For more information or dealer inquiries, please contact ADi at sales@aegisdis.com or by phone at 707-399-3069

XS Power Sponsors Electric for the dB Drag Racing World Finals Competitors

Posted on August 10, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged XS Power.

KNOXVILLE, TN (08.11.23) – Competitors at the 26th Annual dB Drag Racing World Finals locations in Owensboro KY and Antioch CA* will receive complimentary electrical power in their pit stall thanks to XS Power. This is a huge benefit for Finals participants as electrical power usually adds $75.00 or more to the cost of participation. On behalf of all Finals competitors, the dBDRA wishes to extend our gratitude to XS Power for their generous contribution. (* Indoor pit stalls in CA are limited and on a first to register basis)

XS Power Batteries was established in 2005 and has been dominating the winner’s circles of the competition lanes from the start. With in-house testing, and the services of outside accredited labs, as well as outside experts, XS Power Batteries insures the best in their products. XS Power utilizes the highest energy density chemistry known in AGM batteries, XSP is now the battery of choice for competition car audio. With large 12V batteries as well as the 16V models, more and more records are being smashed every day with XS Power Batteries on board.

To learn more about XS Power Batteries: 4xspower.com

For booth pricing and additional sponsorship information, please contact: marketing@termpro.com

World Finals NORTH AMERICA Registration: https://rb.gy/652cl
World Finals EUROPE Registration: https://rb.gy/on9bl

PowerBass Releases New Rocker Switch Mount Soundbar Controller

Posted on August 10, 2023 by 12VoltNews in Industry and tagged PowerBass.

ONTARIO, CA (08.11.23) – PowerBass has released new XL-SBCONRS *Wireless Remote Control for XL-50 V2 Soundbars. Control your new XL-50 Series Soundbar from the dash with the new XL-SBCONRS.

Designed for outdoor use the XL-SBCONRS sends an RF signal to your soundbar even in direct sunlight! The XL-SBCONRS gives you the freedom to change the volume, track, fast forward/rewind, play/pause with a simple push of a button.