Industry

KICKER Creates High-Output, Audio-Zone Controller for Boats and RVs

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STILLWATER, OK (08.03.23) – KICKER is now shipping an audio processor that controls the volume in up to four different zones. The KICKER KXMARLC Zone Volume Controller, created for marine use but with all-weather features for any outdoor setting, distributes a stereo RCA signal from vehicle’s source unit to as many as four independent stereo RCA outputs for very clean, very clear sound. Compatible with most any amplifier, the KXMARLC 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, KXMARLC Zone Controllers will retail for $299.99 each and will also be available for purchase online at www.kicker.com.

Perfect for boat and RV applications, the half-DIN controller unit measures under two inches high and nine inches wide, making it easy to mount in a variety of locations. It utilizes large, user-friendly knobs for adjusting individual zone volumes. Custom zone adhesive labels are included for easily personalizing the controller unit and overall sound system. 

Also included is the hide-away processor unit that features a remote turn-on lead for activating all amplifiers within the system. The processor houses the preamp section that delivers up to eight volts to each channel, so every amplifier is getting the cleanest signal possible. This allows for lower gain settings, increased noise rejection and overall better sound. All installation and mounting hardware for surface or flush mounting of both units is included.

For more information, consumers can log onto kicker.com/KXMARLC on the kicker.com website.

Strong Attendee Support ‘Reminiscent of Highest Records’ Expected for SEMA 2023

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.03.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, is gearing up to have

incredible industry support from several different industry segments from across the world. Beyond the enormous buying power set for the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show also delivers scores of qualified trade, mainstream and new media members alongside established and emerging influencers. These unique attendees help exhibitors expand their branding and product lineups well beyond their booths, making the SEMA Show a sound investment for the year to come.

“This year’s SEMA Show is shaping up to be one of the best events to date. The industry support is reminiscent of our highest attendance records, and participation is trending above pre-pandemic levels,” said SEMA Show Director Andy Tompkins. “From key buyers, top media members and qualified industry influencers, the professionals you need to help grow your business will be in Las Vegas, October 31-November 3. We’re ready for this industry homecoming!”

Be Part of the SEMA Show Global Business Ecosystem
A company’s credibility improves when news outlets publish stories about their offerings and services, one of the best endorsements a brand can receive. With more than 3,000 media members registered each year, the SEMA Show is the single-largest gathering of automotive media professionals in one location.

In addition, the Show is attended by influencers of all types, including those working for exhibiting members, marketers, suppliers, athletes, celebrities and more. Social-media influencers can help your brand establish social proof and build awareness. An influencer snapping a photo of your booth can drive purchase decisions and increase sales–at no cost to your business.

Everyone walking around the SEMA Show is part of the global automotive business ecosystem, offering the opportunity for participating companies to create brand evangelists from every sector in the marketplace.

It’s never too early to get started on your SEMA Show exhibit plan. In fact, records indicate that a majority of attendees decide to attend the SEMA Show six months in advance, providing ample opportunities for pre-event connections that maximize your time on-site.

There is still time to secure booth space for the 2023 SEMA Show. Visit SEMAShow.com to start creating your Show plan today! Exhibitor, attendee, media and students/educator registration is available at SEMAShow.com/register for just $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

Aspen Sound Wins First Ever Crossover Points Drawing

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BATTLE GROUND, WA (08.02.23) – The Crossover Marketing Group presented Aspen
Sound with the first ever Crossover Points prize at a recent Hertz Audison factory training with Ken
Ward.

Crossover held a drawing last month to pick the winner for this new incentive program, which is
designed to reward dealer orders and incentivize upside activity at the end of the month.

“Dealers are building up their ‘Crossover Points’ by writing orders across all of our great brands like
Hertz Audison, Boss Audio, VOXX/DEI, and Linkswell. For every $2,500 they spend, they earn a
point, which gives them a shot at winning an awesome prize. The next drawing will be for $500 in
Costco Gift Cards plus we have some great stuff lined up for the fall…It’s truly a win-win for everyone
involved!” said Rob Sutton of Crossover Marketing.

The program is set to grow even more as additional vendor support kicks in to allow bigger and bigger
prizes. Please visit the following link for an informative video: https://tinyurl.com/xover-points

Visit www.crossovermktg.com for more.

Wireless Carplay & Android Auto Fully Integrated with the Factory Touchscreen for Select Toyota Vehicles

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POMPANO BEACH, FL (08.02.23) – The ITZ-TOY is a easy plug-and-play solution compatible with most Toyota vehicles from 2014 and newer. This solution integrates with the factory touchscreen and provides both wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. It also includes front and rear camera inputs, allowing you to connect cameras for enhanced visibility while driving. Additionally, the ITZ-TOY supports smartphone mirroring.

The ITZ-TOY kit retains the factory microphone and allows you to use the factory Bluetooth, maintaining the original audio quality during phone calls, which is a significant advantage.

For detailed information about the ITZ-TOY and its compatibility with specific Toyota models, you can visit our website (www.zz-2.com) and check out all the product details.

To get to know more about our solutions or purchase the ITZ-TOY, you can contact ZZ2’s sales team at 929-220-1212 (extension 1) or reach out via email at sales@zz-2.com. We will be happy to provide you with further details about the product, pricing, and installation process.

The ITZ-TOY is now available. CLICK HERE to see all the details about it.

Training at the myFirstech Academy Prepares Attendees for the Upcoming Remote Start Season

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SEATTLE, WA (08.01.23) – The recent training sessions at the Seattle myFirstech Academy consisted of 3 sessions, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, July 24th-26th. Josh Woodie and Doug Reed conducted the sessions. Each session had at least 20 in the people in the training and they came from all parts of the country.

Attendees from one of the 3 sessions gather for a group photo. Firstech’s Josh Woodie is bottom right in the red shirt and Doug Rerd is center in the black shirt.
The myFirstech Academy in Seattle includes a large area for training sessions and hands-on vehicle installation.

“The myFirstech Academy trainings provide practical training that pertains to everyday, real world installations. Installers of all levels are invited to Firstech’s Dallas or Seattle offices to receive direct training from our company’s award winning technical support team. Firstech offers a Level 1 course for new installers and a Level 2 version for experienced installers with at least 2 years of experience” Justin Lee, Firstech Marketing Director related.

Josh Woodie paused during an in-session break.
Attendees gathered around as Doug Reed conducted an in-vehicle training opportunity.

The next two training events are in Dallas TX. The first for KnowledgeFest in August and another free training at the Firstech facility in Dallas suburb of Flower Mound in September.

For upcoming events, dealers and installers can visit https://www.firstechllc.com/calendar for dates and locations. Are next two events are in Dallas, TX for KnowledgeFest (August) and another week of FREE training sessions in September.

SEMA Webinar: What to Know Before Conducting an EV Conversion, August 9

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.01.23) – Electric-vehicle (EV) conversions are a growing opportunity in the automotive aftermarket. For shop owners, technicians and product developers who work on these builds, it’s crucial to clearly understand the safety practices and various EV components involved, as they are critical parts of the process.

SEMA members are invited to the “Skateboard Platform for Electric Vehicles” webinar on Wednesday, August 9, at 11:00 a.m. PDT to learn about the complete process of an EV platform. Attendees will hear from Adam Roe, founder, CEO and product architect of Zero Labs Automotive, as he teaches the components associated with an electrified vehicle and EV conversion, as well as the component names, integration, hazards and diagnosis that are present when converting a gas-powered vehicle to electric. 

Participants will walk away with a thorough understanding of EV conversions from the ground up and engage with Roe as he addresses detailed questions from the audience. Register today!

The 2023 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit Prepares Companies for a Successful Event

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LAS VEGAS, NV (07.31.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit kicked off Tuesday, July 25th, in the LVCC upper South Hall meeting rooms and concluded on Wednesday.

Exhibitor Summit days started with breakfasts for the various groups.

During the event atendees had the opportunity to meet and work directly with representives from the SEMA Show. SEMA Membership and Council, Freenman, and other show partners. SEMA Show exhibitors brought plans and booth renderings to get ideas from SEMA Show staff member to ensure a successful 2023 Show.

Robin McNeal, Nakamichi National Sales Manager, was on site for the Exhibitor Summit. “I live in Las Vegas and have attended four previous SEMA Exhibitor Summits. Attending the summit was an opportinity to interact with SEMA staff and learn of any changes with Freeman Decorating’s procedures. Spending time with other exhibitors was also a chance to get a sense of the overall overall business climate in the automotive aftermarket marketplace. From my view it was positive time spent for Nakamichi to maximize the ROI at the 2023 SEMA Show ”

Robin McNeal, Nakamichi National Sales Manager

McNeal concluded “We will have a 20’x20’ booth in the LVCC North Hall showcasing our 2024 product lineup and are setting meeting plans for members of our rep network to receive their input for getting 2024 off to a well planned start.”

The 2023 SEMA Show runs October 31st through November 3rd in Las Vegas, NV.

Discover New Avenues of Business Growth with the 2023 SEMA Market Report

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.31.23) – Understanding the market, as well as who your customers are and how to connect with them, is imperative for driving business. Automotive aftermarket companies need reliable data and insights to make informed decisions as the industry evolves.

The “2023 SEMA Market Report” provides an overview of the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market in the United States to help SEMA members make better-informed decisions in the next year and beyond. Released in June 2023, the report includes findings on how much consumers spent, where they shopped for specialty-equipment parts and accessories in 2022, and automotive trends and economic factors influencing the market.  

“Understanding purchasing patterns and preferences can help businesses gain a competitive advantage,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “The report is the ultimate guide for businesses seeking to navigate the industry. With this report, they can refine their approach, identify new opportunities and carve out a distinctive plan for what they need their business to focus on.” 

The report is free to SEMA members and includes sections on market sizing, consumer profiles, industry indicators and vehicle information. Learn what the data means and how it can help your business by downloading the report at sema.org/research. 

CE Global Pro Adds Apollo Window Film to the Rep Firm’s Lineup in the PNW

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BEND, OR (07.28.23) – Industry Veteran Glenn McCarthy jumped back into the 12-Volt world this past May when he formed CE Global Pro, a PNW Representative operation, to service Oregon and Washington states.

Glenn McCarthy in the CE Global Pro office in Bend ready to hit the road with Apollo Window Film.

“We’re on the road and connecting with dealers throughout Washington and Oregon. The weather is hot and the timing is perfect to announce that Apollo Window Film has been added to the brands in our bag” McCarthy related.

JC Carnes, National Sales, stated “Apollo Window Film is very happy to announce CE Global Pro has been added to our company’s rep network in the US. To have Glenn McCarthy, and the newly formed CE Global Pro firm, as the newest addition to our company’s growing list of rep firms is another step for growth. CE Global Pro is making an impact across the Pacific Northwest and will connect dealers with Apollo Window Film’s vehicle, resident/office and paint protection film products.”

Apollo Window Film joins 12volt brands in the CE Global Pro bag that include Cicada Audio, MTX, Epsilon, AlloyGator and NavAtlas. Look for more to come from CE Global Pro on the road in the PNW.

Visit apollowindowfilm.com for more.

Oracle Lighting Announces DYNAMIC ColorSHIFT Headlights for 2018+ Ford Mustangs

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METAIRIE, LA (07.28.23) – Oracle Lighting has announced its new DYNAMIC RGB+A Black Series Headlights (part number: 8204-332) for the 2018-23 sixth-generation Mustang. The new Black Series headlights feature a matte black housing, satin black bezel and smoked marker lights for meaner, more athletic styling while incorporating the safety, functionality and durability ORACLE Lighting products are known for.

The DYNAMIC ColorSHIFT headlights feature over 200 pre-programmed moving patterns, all controlled via a free smartphone app allowing for multiple color patterns through the daytime running lights. In addition to the pre-programmed features, custom designs can also be created via pixel editing in the app as well as static color control and a white daytime running light mode.

These complete replacement headlight units pack a ton of innovative features into an easy-to-install package, including sequential FLOW turn signals, demon eyes, dynamic halos, tri-bar daytime running lights and smartphone control. The DYNAMIC RGB+A Black Series lights are compatible with the following 2018-23 Ford Mustang trim levels and models:

2018-23 EcoBoost/EcoBoost Premium
2018-23 GT/GT Premium
2019-20 Bullitt
2022-23 Mach 1

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4VTlm8YKqH8

“The Mustang DYNAMIC ColorSHIFT lights serve as complete replacement headlights and are 100% plug and play,” said Justin Hartenstein, ORACLE Lighting director of development. “With the Black Series, we wanted to enhance the factory look while also incorporating the functionality and innovation ORACLE Lighting has become synonymous with in a complete package that will help Mustang enthusiasts add that unique touch to their ride.”

The DYNAMIC RGB+A Black Series Headlights are available now at Oraclelights.com and select retailerswith an MSRP of $1,449.95. The new offering joins Oracle Lighting’s Mustang-specific lighting options for 2018+ models, including the ColorSHIFT DRL Upgrade with Halo Kit and Sequential Turn Signals and LED Headlight Halo Kit, among other accessories.

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.