SEATTLE, WA (08.22.23) – Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) has announced the addition of RDV Automotive Technology (RDV) to their vendor partner line-up.
RDV engineers and manufactures a wide variety of vehicle specific solutions that seamlessly and elegantly add some of the most wanted features to today’s vehicles including Apple CarPlay, wireless charging and other popular solutions.
Rich De Sclafani, Owner, RDV Automotive Technology
RDV is owned by industry veteran Rich De Sclafani who oversees and touches just about everything at the company. Rich said, “Wow! I appreciate so much the confidence EDA has shown in my company. EDA is such a powerful group of quality 12-volt distributors. We are energized to have the group bring RDV to their thousands of customers.”
Josh Eatherly, Director of Business Development, EDA
Josh Eatherly, EDA’s Director of Business Development spent many weeks researching the opportunity. “The more I looked into RDV and talked to dealers and end users it was clear that Rich has done something special at RDV. There are just so many vehicle owners out there that want to add what RDV is delivering. RDV will be plus business for our members and dealers.”
Amir Dhahani of SSR Distributors in Houston and Dallas added, “We have had so many dealers ask for exactly what RDV is delivering. This will be an instant win for SSR!”
EAST WENATCHEE, WA (08.21.23) – IASCA Worldwide Inc. will once again host a TKE World Record Event at the Surf City Soundoff on August 26th and 27th, 2023. The Chinook Winds Casino has teamed with IASCA for a number of years to create the largest car audio event in the Northwest and one of the largest car audio events in the country.
Image from the 2022 event event at the Chinook Winds Casino In Lincoln City OR.
Through the course of the years together, the Chinook Winds Casino and IASCA Worldwide have donated to great causes. More than $20,000 has been donated to Angels Anonymous through entry fees, raffle tickets and t-shirt sales.
Event sponsors include Sonic Audio in Tualitin, Oregon (Top Headliner Sponsor), along with Headliner Sponsors Sight & Sound car audio, Car Toys and B2 Audio. More sponsors are expected and we will announce them as they sign on.
“I’d really like to thank all of our sponsors. Every year they step up and make the show that much better.” said IASCA President Travis Chin “I have been involved with the Surf City Soundoff and Chinook Winds Casino since the first event and always look forward to being part of the show. This year promises to be the biggest event yet and it has a great reputation as one of the ‘go to’ IASCA events of the year.”
MIDDLETOWN, CT (08.21.23) – GoFast Solutions, Premier Mobile Electronics & Motorsports Distributor, is thrilled to announce its new partnership with Blaupunkt as the premier distributor for the Northeast region, covering New England, New York (Including Metro), and Northern & Central New Jersey. This exciting collaboration marks a significant step forward in providing cutting-edge mobility solutions to local communities.
As part of this partnership, GoFast Solutions will now be offering the highly anticipated Blaupunkt e-Bikes, the perfect fusion of German engineering and innovation in the world of electric mobility. Blaupunkt e-Bikes are renowned for their top-notch quality, state-of-the-art features, and sleek design, providing riders with an unparalleled experience in sustainable urban transportation.
“Blaupunkt is a blast from the past, the Blaupunkt brand has been known for their superior workmanship and German engineering and it’s great to see those qualities in their new e-Bikes” said Bob Hernandez, Director of Sales of GoFast Solutions. “Partnering with Blaupunkt to distribute their e-Bikes allows us to provide our customers with eco-friendly, technologically advanced options that align with our mission of delivering excellence.” Bob adds “Join us for Winter Summit 2023, Blaupunkt will have a booth with all the e-Bikes on hand and we will be giving a new e-Bike away to one luck attendee!”
With this new addition to their product lineup, GoFast Solutions aims to cater to the growing demand for eco-conscious transportation solutions, providing individuals with an efficient and eco-friendly way to navigate their urban environments.
The Blaupunkt e-Bikes available through GoFast Solutions encompass a range of models to suit different preferences and lifestyles, ensuring that customers can find the perfect match for their needs. Each e-Bike boasts advanced features, including powerful motors, extended battery life, and intuitive control systems, making them a reliable and stylish choice for daily commuting or leisurely rides.
GoFast Solutions invites enthusiasts, commuters, and adventurers alike to explore the future of electric mobility by visiting their stores across New England, New York, and Northern & Central New Jersey. Discover the seamless blend of convenience, sustainability, and performance that the Blaupunkt e-Bikes bring to urban transportation.
For more information about GoFast Solutions and their partnership with Blaupunkt, please visit www.gofst.com
TEMPE, AZ (08.18.23) – MasterTech Expo, produced by Mobile Solutions, announces the addition of a unique and esteemed awards ceremony at the forthcoming March 3-6 2024 event in Mesa, AZ. The awards will encompass two distinct audience; the attendees of MasterTech Expo and the vendor partners/exhibitors at the event. “These awards are to elevate the quality of MasterTech Expo because they are earned awards that require input, participation and commitment which also reflects why the best of the best at the event add to MasterTech Expo’s continued growth and success” commented Bryan Schmitt, CEO of Mobile Solutions and the executive event director for MasterTech Expo.
MasterTech Expo Awards Categories:
Attendees/Technicians – Presented Sunday Evening March 3, 2024
Master Fabricator
Best of Light
Master Clean Wire
Future MasterTech
Lifetime Achievement
Vendors – Presented Wednesday Afternoon March 6, 2024
Best Sounding Vehicle
Best Booth Experience
Best Vendor Training Experience
Attendee/Technician award categories are self-entry at the forthcoming MasterTech Expo awards submission web page. A diverse panel of past attendees, industry manufacturers and reps, as well as key MasterTech Expo staff will be the judging panel for these awards. “We designed this to be an engaged group effort to highlight the best of the best in each category without any politics or a popularity contest atmosphere” commented Schmitt. Indeed MasterTech Expo’s diverse audience and inclusive nature is the perfect atmosphere for the new Attendee/Technician awards ceremony. With ahead-of-the-event judging, this will allow the awards in this category to be delivered at the Welcome Party kick off on Sunday night March 3, 2024. “The recipients of the esteemed awards will be visible to the attendees and exhibitors for the whole event, which we thought was adding value to this awards ceremony and the event itself” commented Michele Schmitt, VP of Events at MasterTech Expo.
Vendor award categories will be decided by people’s choice during the entire event March 3-6. Vendors are encouraged to ‘step up their game’ for the entire event including their booth strategy with attendees, their training sessions and their demo vehicles. “Exhibitors who put time and planning effort into their attendance at MasterTech Expo are the ones we want exhibiting and interacting with attendees of all backgrounds, whether a trimmer, 12 volt tech, builder of custom vehicles, automation professional or business owner/manager” added Bryan Schmitt.
Online attendee registration for MasterTech Expo 2024 begins September 5, 2023. A completely new education program is part of the 2024 event enhancements among many other elements over the four training days. Those arriving on Sunday March 3 will also have an opportunity to attend afternoon classes as electives so they do not have any down time while attending for MasterTech Expo 2024 and increase their range of valuable training to attend.
MasterTech Expo is an event where aftermarket automotive electrical, upholstery, fabrication, design and automation professionals come together to learn, collaborate and define the next generation of vehicle interior customization in a process-driven atmosphere. MasterTech Expo is March 3-6, 2024 in Mesa, AZ.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.18.23) – As the world evolves and travel preferences shift, the exhilarating realm of overlanding is captivating hearts and minds, not just in remote corners of the world but increasingly across the United States. This year, the much-anticipated SEMA Overland Experience returns to the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, promising attendees and media a thrilling journey into the expanding universe of overlanding, complete with fresh opportunities and insights. And lucky for you, some exhibitors have agreed to give SEMA News readers a sneak peek at their displays (more details below).
Nestled in the Diamond Lot adjacent to the West Hall, this year’s SEMA Overland Experience boasts a new outside location that sets the stage for an immersive and customized environment. Paired perfectly with the West Hall’s showcase of trucks, SUVs, off-road vehicles, powersports and utility vehicles, this Show feature promises to be a haven for enthusiasts and industry players alike.
As experts can attest, one of the most intriguing aspects of overlanding is its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. While overlanding has traditionally thrived in remote parts of the world, its popularity is surging across the nation. The SEMA Overland Experience is a testament to this trend, offering attendees a firsthand look at the latest products and vehicles explicitly tailored for the overlanding experience.
Another highlight is the presence of industry experts within the SEMA Overland Experience, who will identify key opportunities and trends within the market that can potentially open new vital profit centers for businesses. With their insights, automotive professionals can gain a comprehensive understanding of how to position themselves effectively in this dynamic landscape.
Of course, the builds of the SEMA Overland Experience will be nothing short of awe-inspiring (see a sneak peek, below). A plethora of customized vehicles will encompass everything from pop-top-equipped trucks to sprinter vans to specialty trailers, as well as a variety of recreational and utility gear, including refrigerators, storage racks and units, makeshift kitchens, solar chargers and other electronics designed to make off-the-grid travel for work and play fun, productive and convenient.
“The Overland Experience spells lots of opportunity for aftermarket companies looking to diversify and grow their offerings,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “More than just a display, this area acts as both an educational tool and a promotion zone for the burgeoning overlanding market. It’s a chance to delve deep into the lifestyle and gear associated with this adventure-driven niche.”
For businesses seeking a stake in the overlanding market, the SEMA Overland Experience provides a unique avenue for exposure. Limited opportunities exist to place static vehicle displays and showcase vehicles and trailers, offering a chance to put your offerings in the worldwide spotlight. SEMA thanks the current Overland Experience sponsors (in alphabetical order) American Expedition Vehicles, KW Automotive, LinksWell Automotive, LiquidSpring, Mackin Industries, ORACLE Lighting, Powerbuilt and Caterpillar, Scosche Industries and first-time exhibitor Winnebago.
To further explore these Overland Experience opportunities, contact SEMA Industry Sales Director Alan Josse at alanj@sema.org.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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