INDIANAPOLIS, IN (03.11.25) – The Lucas Oil Stadium grounds were active throughout the day on Saturday, March 9th. It was sunny but chilly outside as vendors had their tents with displays set up outside. PowerBass had a strong presence in the Privateer Paddock area. Power Bass, National Sales Manager, Jeff Falk was in the house along with the area representative Keith Selby Cardinal Sales Principal. Selby arranged for area retailers Adrenaline Cycles and Central Kentucky Motorsports team members to be in the booth. At 7PM that night the action started on the track inside the Lucas Oil Stadium as riders raced around the track and over mounds as a crowd reported to be at 50,000 roared their approval in the stands.

Jeff Falk related “It was a great event. A big turnout and spectators loved the music coming from our award-winning PowerBass Soundbars coming out of the Privateer Paddock booth. The event provided a lot of great exposure for the PowerBass brand and our products. Spending time with two proactive retailers was very informative to get their views from the territory.”

“The event drew a great crowd through the day and everybody was really happy and excited for the action on the track that night. This was my first Supercross event and the crowd in the Lucas Oil Stadium was really engaged in the action. Spending time with dealers Dan and Chris let us know what their customers were looking for to add audio on the trails” Keith Selby commented.

Adam Peterson, owner of Adrenaline Cycles, traveled to the event from London, KY over 250 miles away. “Our time spent outside in the Privateer Paddock booth was a great opportunity for me along with Dustin Greene, our in-house tech, to talk about PowerBass Soundbars and what enthusiast and riders are looking for as they upgraded their rides for the coming season. Connecting with riders too. Our main business is actually selling UTVs and Side X Side vehicles and adding audio upgrades. The PowerBass products have been great for customers at our store.”

Attempts to contact Chris Johnson at Central Kentucky Motorsports were not successful on Monday, March 10th.

PowerBass VP, Erik Harbour, stated “Partnering with Privateer Paddock has been a great opportunity for us to connect with enthusiasts and consumers in their set up at Supercross events across the country. This visibility is expanding enthusiast’s interest in adding PowerBass audio upgrades and other products to their rides. In addition, dealers attending the Supercross events have a fun day and racing experience they will remember for a long time.”

Super images provided by Keith Selby.

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.11.25) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) names Dan Sparks as the Director of National Sales for the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division. Sparks brings a strong repertoire of sales and leadership experience to the position in addition to six years of service to the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division.

“We are thrilled to announce that Dan Sparks has accepted the role of the Director of National Sales,” said Kunihiko Sato, Executive Director of the Alpine Brand Aftermarket Division at Alps Alpine North America. “Dan has a long history with the Alpine brand, and we are confident that he will continue to provide value and exceptional sales support to our retailers.”

After a successful stint as an Alpine Sales Representative at Online AV, Sparks began his career with Alpine in 2019 as a District Sales Manager, responsible for the growth and success of the Alpine Brand in the Midwest Region. Afterward, Sparks transitioned to a Senior Sales and Marketing Analyst in 2022, extending his support to the entire Alpine dealer base in North America. In 2024, Sparks spearheaded the “New Business Development” team, a new department that sought to showcase the Alpine product line to a new audience to strengthen the brand’s reputation and create new opportunities.

“It is truly an honor to take on this new role,” said Dan Sparks. “My affinity for the Alpine brand started when I was a teenager and has grown into a passion that gets poured into this business every day. I appreciate the opportunity and feel very blessed to be able to contribute to such a talented team.”

As the Director of National Sales, Sparks will oversee all sales activities for the Alpine Brand, supporting an extensive network of instore and online Alpine retailers throughout the United States.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

LOS ANGELES, CA (03.11.25) – Massive Audio, a company built for audio enthusiasts and professionals alike, proudly introduces the P8NTi, an 8-inch, 4-ohm mid-bass pro audio coaxial speaker designed for exceptional power, clarity, and durability. Whether for professional sound systems, automotive upgrades, marine applications, or outdoor setups, the P8NTi delivers superior performance with its lightweight neodymium magnet and weatherproof construction.

Key Features & Specifications of the P8NTi

• Uncompromising Power & Clarity
  With 160 Watts RMS and 320 Watts Max Power, the P8NTi is built for high-output systems that demand precision and strength. Whether installed in a custom audio build, a competitive car audio setup, or a professional outdoor system, this speaker ensures deep, resonant mid-bass and crisp highs without distortion—even at peak volume levels.

• Neodymium Magnet for Maximum Efficiency
  At the core of the P8NTi lies a high-temperature neodymium magnet, delivering exceptional magnetic strength with a fraction of the weight of traditional ferrite magnets. This efficient yet powerful design enhances responsiveness and sensitivity, ensuring that every beat, note, and vocal cut through the mix with precision, even in demanding environments.

• All-Weather Durability for Any Environment
  Designed to withstand extreme conditions, the P8NTi is built with weatherproof materials, making it an ideal choice for marine audio, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, and outdoor events. Its moisture-resistant cone, UV-resistant surround, and reinforced basket protect against harsh weather, temperature fluctuations, and prolonged exposure to the elements, ensuring consistent performance in any setting.
  
  
• Integrated 12dB Crossover with Smart Tweeter Protection
  Unlike conventional speakers, the P8NTi features a built-in 12dB crossover network that intelligently distributes frequencies between the mid-bass driver and the titanium tweeter. This ensures that low frequencies remain deep and punchy, while highs stay clean and distortion-free. Additionally, the poly switch protection safeguards the tweeter against power overloads, extending its lifespan and maintaining audio clarity over time.

• Precision-Engineered Heavy-Duty Construction
  Every detail of the P8NTi is crafted for maximum durability and sonic performance.
  • Heavy gauge basket reduces unwanted vibrations and enhances sound integrity
  • Hand-treated, hardened paper cone delivers an accurate and responsive sound profile
  • Plasticized cloth surround enhances flexibility while ensuring long-lasting structural integrity
  • Reinforced aluminum phase plug improves sound dispersion, making high frequencies more focused and defined

• Versatile Installation & Wide Application Range
  Built for flexibility and adaptability, the P8NTi can be seamlessly installed in a variety of audio systems. Whether you’re a car audio enthusiast looking for a competition-grade mid-bass driver, an installer outfitting a marine vessel, or a professional building a stage system, this speaker provides premium sound without limitations.

Industry Endorsement

“At Massive Audio, we take pride in delivering high-quality products that elevate the listening experience,” said Mr. Madani, Owner of Massive Audio. “The P8NTi is designed for those who demand performance, precision, and durability in every aspect of their sound system. Whether you’re upgrading a vehicle, installing a marine system, or enhancing a pro audio setup, this speaker is built to deliver.”

A Word from Our Sales Manager, John Velez

“We’re excited to bring the P8NTi to market because it’s exactly what our customers have been asking for—powerful performance, rugged durability, and crystal-clear sound,” said John Velez, Sales Manager at Massive Audio. “If you’re interested in adding this to your inventory or learning more about our product lineup, I’d love to connect and help you find the right solutions for your needs.”

The P8NTi is now available through Massive Audio’s authorized retailers and website.

Interested in Selling Massive Audio Products?

For wholesale inquiries, dealership opportunities, or more information on becoming a reseller, please contact:

📞 John Velez, Sales Manager at +1(626) 523-8954
📧 Email: john.velez@massiveaudio.com

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (02.10.25) – On Tuesday afternoon Ed Nuttall and Ben Bjerky left the Team Nutz HQ in Pittsburgh and rolled to Atlantic City to spend three days getting the company’s crew ready for the Marine season 2025. The CWR Training and Expo was a 5-Day training and networking event, focusing on dealer education, at the Golden Nugget Casino February 3rd thru 7th. This was not a direct sales event, but there were incentives, raffles and giveaways during the manufacturer training sessions and expo. CWR, with the support of their manufacturers, representatives and industry trade groups was excited to host the event again in Atlantic City NJ.

The Pittsburgh area is big on the water activities being located on the Ohio River plus there are many of the opportunities for boaters in the area. “At Team Nutz we do a lot of dockside installations along the river in addition to customers bringing in their boats to prepare for the boating season” Nuttall related.

During the time at the CWR Expo Ed and Ben spent time on the floor meeting with various companies and representatives along spending time in training sessions. Spending time with fellow retailers, also added to the value of the very productive trip to the CWR Expo. On site they met with representative from Fusion, Garmin, JL Audio, KICKER and DS18. A highlight for the Ben was actually winning a raffle prize for a 4 Bank Battery Charger.

On the training side Ben earned a Basic National Marine Electronics Association Basic Certificate. Ed passed his MECP renewal and passed his NMEA Advanced Rnewal Certification.

CWR has locations in Bayville NJ and Tampa FL and stocks over 300 brands to support dealers in the marine aftermarketplace.

Team Nutz is very proactive retailer and this coming weekend will be on site at the International Auto Show in downtown Pittsburgh.

Visit teamnutztechnology.com for more.

TEMPE, AZ (01.31.25) – MasterTech Expo, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., is proud to announce a captivating new session, High Fidelity Sound: The Relationship Between Objective and Subjective Measurements of Sound Quality, led by the distinguished Dr. Sean Olive of Harman International.

“Dr. Olive, a world-renowned Senior Fellow in Acoustic Research at Harman International, will guide attendees through the fascinating intersection of science and sound perception,” explained Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “This session offers attendees exclusive insights into the groundbreaking methodologies pioneered by Dr. Olive and his mentor, Floyd Toole, in correlating objective data with subjective sound preferences. Whether you’re an audio professional, enthusiast, or innovator, you’ll walk away equipped with actionable knowledge to enhance system design and evaluation.”

With a career dedicated to bridging the technical and human aspects of audio, Dr. Olive will explore key questions, such as:

• Listening Tests and Demonstrations: Learn how to conduct scientific tests for reliable, unbiased data vs. random opinions.
• Subjective vs. Objective Debate: Discuss if audio quality is subjective or if objective data offers meaningful insights.
• Listener Preferences: Understand listener preferences and how they match measurable sound system traits.
• Predictability in System Design: See how objective data and subjective experiences improve audio system performance.
• Practical Implementation: Learn how to apply this understanding to system design and evaluation.
• Expert Insights: Benefit from the expertise of audio research from Dr. Olive.

“My session will provide some practical tips on how to evaluate the sound quality of reproduced sound, and the science behind what most listeners prefer and the measurements that best predict those preferences,” said Dr. Olive. “With this knowledge in hand, making good sounding audio systems becomes a straightforward engineering exercise with clearly defined performance targets.”

Dr. Olive’s impressive credentials include a Bachelor of Music from the University of Toronto and advanced degrees in Sound Recording from McGill University. A former president of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and collaborator with audio pioneer Floyd Toole, Dr. Olive brings unparalleled expertise to the MasterTech Expo stage.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the world’s foremost experts in sound quality,” Schmitt concluded. “Join us at MasterTech Expo 2025 for a session that promises to inspire and elevate your understanding of high-fidelity audio.”

Event Details:
Session 4: High Fidelity Sound
Instructor: Dr. Sean Olive, Harman International Senior Fellow, Acoustic Research

Date/Time/Location:

March 21: 4:30pm to 6:00pm
Location: MasterTech Expo – Mesa Convention Center

For more information and to register for MasterTech Expo, please email info@mastertechexpo.com and visit www.mastertechexpo.com.

About MasterTech Expo

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 2025 is March 20-23, 2025 in Mesa, AZ.

For more information and to register, please visit www.mastertechexpo.com.

OXNARD, CA (01.31.25) – As part of their ongoing commitment of support to the Mobile Electronics Industry, Boss Audio will sponsor a special sales seminar during the Vendor Training portion of the upcoming KnowledgeFest convention, which is being held at the Paris Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV from January 31st through February 2nd 2025. 

The seminar, titled “Tipping the Scales” which will be delivered by Jon Kowanetz, addresses the well-known truth in retail sales that “All else being equal, the customer will buy from the lowest price”. What then can be done to tip the scales in your favor, to upset the balance or to “de-equalize” the system, so to speak? This seminar aims to answer that question with a mix of statistical data, observations of various businesses and personal experience in sales along with a bit of common sense. 

The instructor, Jon Kowanetz, pulls from a long and multi-faceted history in the Mobile Electronics Industry to both create and present his classes, assuring attendees that the information is relevant, relatable and recent. Having started and grown his own business over the course of 15 years is where Jon learned much of what he knows and shares, when it comes to sales acumen. But that knowledge and experience has been strengthened and broadened by his later experience as a business coach, working with other businesses in the industry to help them improve their sales process, among many other aspects of creating and sustaining a successful company. 

In this seminar, Jon brings together all of that experience and knowledge to help the attendees improve their customer satisfaction, closing ratio, profitability and job satisfaction by sharing a sales process that builds trust, confidence, value and a relationship that will turn the customer into a client. “To a certain degree, price is only an issue in the absence of value”, Kowanetz said “and it is our job to ensure our customer understands the value of doing business with us.” This class will teach you how to do that job.

Matthew Delgado, Director of Sales for Boss International Group and 25 year veteran of the mobile electronics industry, knows very well the important roles that both innovation and education play in growth. As the company gets closer to the completion of the Elite line of products, designed from the ground up with specialty retailers in mind, Boss’ sponsorship of this seminar at the first KnowledgeFest event of the year exemplifies their commitment to providing the education retailers will need to be successful in 2025.

“This will be the third time that we have worked directly with Jon to provide unique, relevant educational content for our industry that is based upon extensive experience and I believe that this sales focused class will be the perfect compliment to the upcoming release of our newest products.” Said Matthew.
The special sales seminar “Tipping the Scales” will be delivered at 3:00 PM on Friday, January 31st, 2025 in the Champagne 2 room in the Paris Hotel & Convention Center.

Please contact Jon Kowanetz with any questions:
480-580-2283
jon.kowanetz@gmail.com

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (01.31.25) – As the official audio sponsor for Jeep Beach 2025 – MB Quart is heading down to Daytona Beach, Florida, for the biggest Jeep party under the sun! Attracting over 200,000 visitors and 20,000 Jeeps every year — Jeep Beach is the ONLY PLACE TO BE for Jeeps, audio, and abundant sunshine. MB Quart can’t wait to join in on the Jeep fun by showcasing a variety of Jeep Tuned Audio Kits for Jeep Wrangler JK, JL, and Gladiator JT vehicles.

All of the Music. Defined. Jeep Tuned Audio action takes place at Daytona Beach, Florida,  and runs from April 18th through April 27th. The biggest Jeep beach party in the nation will promise to deliver on many Jeep Waves, incredible MB Quart Jeep demo vehicle builds, and Music. Defined. performance with audio products for Jeep Wrangler JK and JL and Jeep Gladiator JT! It’s time to get ready for that Florida sun, LOUDER AUDIO, and fun Jeep vibes.

Brian Sherman, Vice President of Product and Marketing, said, “We are very excited to be taking part in Jeep Beach 2025 and continuing to be the official audio sponsor of Jeep Beach. Jeep Beach is always a blast for us — and we can’t wait to bring some awesome builds, amazing sounding audio demos, and take part in the ultimate Jeep party with everyone!”

ABOUT THE JEEP TUNED AUDIO STAGE KITS LINE

Choose from a variety of different MB Quart Tuned Audio Jeep Wrangler JL/JK and Gladiator JT kits to elevate your sound within your vehicle. 

MBQJ-STG4A-1 —

The MBQJ-STG4A-1 is an 800-watt STAGE 4 audio system upgrade designed specifically for Jeep® Wrangler (JL) and Gladiator (JT) models equipped with the OEM source unit. This comprehensive system includes two 3.5-inch coaxial speakers and two 6.5-inch midbass drivers, all powered by two 400-watt Class-D amplifiers. The design ensures a seamless integration into the vehicle’s existing setup, providing enhanced audio performance without compromising factory aesthetics. The system is engineered for easy installation – utilizing OEM hardware and connectors.

JC2-169 —

The JC2-169 is a 6×9-inch coaxial speaker upgrade tailored for the rear soundbar of 2024 and newer Jeep® Wrangler (JL) and Gladiator (JT) models. Each speaker features a 1-inch magnesium dome tweeter with a removable phase lens, coupled with a lightweight yet durable pop paper cone infused with a mica blend. This configuration delivers a frequency response from 45Hz to 23kHz and a sensitivity of 86dB, handling up to 220 watts of peak power (110 watts RMS). The package includes OEM-matching grills and Plug-and-Play wiring harnesses, ensuring a straightforward installation.

JC1-169SB —

Designed for Jeep® Wrangler (JL) models from 2018 to 2023 and Gladiator (JT) models from 2020 to 2023, the JC1-169SB is a 6×9-inch coaxial speaker system intended as a direct replacement for the factory rear soundbar speakers. Similar to the JC2-169, it boasts a 1-inch magnesium dome tweeter with a removable phase lens and a pop paper cone with a mica blend. The system offers a frequency response of 45Hz to 23kHz, a sensitivity of 86dB, and can handle up to 220 watts of peak power (110 watts RMS). The kit comes with OEM-matching grills, powder-coated mounting plates, and cutout templates to facilitate a seamless installation.

MBQJT-SUBA-1 —

The MBQJT-SUBA-1 is a 400-watt dual subwoofer system engineered for Jeep® Gladiator (JT) models from 2020 onwards. It features two 8-inch, 8-ohm, long-throw subwoofers housed in a high-quality HDPE enclosure designed to fit under the rear seat without compromising space or requiring modifications to the vehicle’s floor mats. The enclosure provides 1.0 cubic feet of internal airspace, ensuring optimal bass performance. The system is powered by a 400-watt high-efficiency Class-D amplifier with onboard equalization, delivering a frequency response of 50Hz to 250Hz and a sensitivity of 89dB. Installation is straightforward, utilizing OEM hardware and providing full access to the vehicle’s jack and top parts.

Having a very successful Jeep Beach 2024 – Jeep Beach 2025 looks to build upon the continued excitement and commitment that MB Quart has invested in Jeep Tuned Audio over the past years. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU on April 18^th! 

For complete event/show details on Jeep Beach 2025, follow the link at www.jeepbeach.com.

TEMPE, AZ (01.16.25) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce the return of Custom Sounds & Tint CEO Mike Cofield as he will conduct Business Session 3 – Transform Your Store on a Budget during MasterTech Expo 2025, held March 20-23, 2025 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. Cofield will guide attendees through quick and easy remodel strategies that have propelled Custom Sounds & Tint into a multimillion-dollar powerhouse in the car audio and tint industry.

“This dynamic seminar will empower business owners, retail managers, and entrepreneurs with practical solutions to transform their storefronts, store interiors, and merchandising strategies to maximize their potential without exceeding their budgets,” said Bryan Schmitt, MasterTech founder/CEO/president. “In his second year as a MasterTech presenter, Cofield brings a wealth of knowledge from his decades of leading Custom Sounds & Tint. His engaging teaching style, coupled with real-world examples, ensures that participants leave equipped with actionable insights to elevate their retail environments.”

Cofield added that his goal is to help attendees see their stores through a fresh lens. “By sharing the proven methods that worked for Custom Sounds, I hope to inspire business owners to improve their retail environment to not only drive sales but also align with their long-term vision for success.”

During the seminar, attendees will learn from Cofield’s extensive experience, including:
• Stunning Store Makeovers on a Budget:

• Explore before-and-after transformations of Custom Sounds’ locations and the specific changes that delivered the biggest impact.
• Learn to enhance customer engagement through clean, modern design principles.

• Cost-Effective Renovation Tactics:

• Discover materials and upgrades that provide maximum value at minimum cost.
• Gain insights into cost-efficient remodeling techniques.
• Learn to achieve dramatic results at minimal costs.
• Learn how strategic accessorizing and branding boost customer retention.
• Uncover methods to inspire staff to take ownership of a transformed environment.

• Sustainability and Vision:

• Align renovations with your brand’s long-term goals and operational efficiency.

“MasterTech Expo 2025 is the premier event for professionals in the automotive, retail, and technology industries, providing a platform to learn, collaborate, and celebrate excellence,” Schmitt concluded. “Cofield’s seminar is designed for any retailer looking to achieve polished, professional results while staying on budget.”

Reserve your spot today at www.mastertechexpo.com/business.

For media inquiries or more information about Mike Cofield’s session, please contact Bryan Schmitt at bryans@mobilesolutions-usa.com.

For more information and to register for MasterTech Expo, please visit mastertechexpo.com.

PHOENIX, AZ (01.16.25) – Orion proudly unveils its latest innovation by introducing the XTR Shallow Woofers. Designed to redefine the standards of compact subwoofers, these ultra-shallow subs lead the industry in delivering unparalleled bass performance while requiring minimal space. Coupled with remarkable power handling and durability, the XTR Shallow Woofers ensure a deep, impactful bass experience without compromising quality.

Bill Turner, Orion’s Vice President of Dealer Success, expressed his excitement, stating, “The XTR Shallow Woofers represents a breakthrough in audio engineering, catering to the demands of users seeking powerful bass in a limited space environment. Our commitment to providing innovative solutions is underscored by these subwoofers, which perfectly balance performance and space-saving design.”

Available in 8”, 10”, and 12” sizes with dual 2 and 4 Ohm configurations, Orion’s XTR shallow subwoofers cater to a wide range of audio enthusiasts looking to enhance their sound systems. Specifically crafted for individuals who desire enhanced bass frequencies without needing a large subwoofer, these innovative products offer a compelling solution for maximizing audio performance in confined spaces.

The shallow design of the XTR subwoofers not only makes them ideal for motorsport installations but also ensures their compatibility with tight spaces such as motorcycle saddlebags.

With the release of the XTR Shallow Woofers, Orion continues to uphold its reputation for technological excellence and customer satisfaction. These subwoofers epitomize the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of audio innovation, providing users with a transformative audio experience that combines power, quality, and space efficiency.

“Retailers, ORION IS BACK. Don’t just take our word for it. Embark on a FREE test ride. Select up to $500 worth of Orion products, test them out for 60 days risk-free, and enjoy complimentary round-trip shipping on us,” said Bill Turner, Vice President of Dealer Success. “Contact us at family@orioncaraudio.com today to explore the world of Orion and take advantage of this unparalleled opportunity.”

From customers to competitors and every retailer in between, if you have a question, hit us up at Family@OrionCarAudio.com

DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.16.25) – The state of California today withdrew its request for the Clean Air Act waiver needed to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation, a significant victory for those who seek a technology-neutral approach to reducing carbon emissions. The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) celebrate this important development, which halts an effort by California to overstep its constitutional and state statutory authority, and clears the path for the automotive aftermarket industry to continue leading the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity – particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions, and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.

SEMA in October filed suit in federal court challenging the regulation on the basis of significant constitutional questions. The lawsuit remains active as the organization considers the implications of California’s action.

SEMA now calls on California to immediately cease and desist the implementation and threatened enforcement of the Advanced Clean Fleets policy, as the law is clear in regards to the state needing federal approval for its implementation. Not to mention, the policy is a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution.

“SEMA and its thousands of members in the automotive aftermarket industry are thrilled to learn of California’s decision on Advanced Clean Fleets, which represents a reprieve from the significant national implications that the policy would have wrought. Advanced Clean Fleets would have crippled interstate commerce by implementing harmful EV mandates on the trucking fleets that drive our nation’s economy. Now, we demand that California immediately halt its premature implementation and enforcement action already underway. The law is clear that, without its waiver, California has no foundation upon which to implement this policy,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA will continue our efforts to ensure the defeat of any shortsighted attempts to enact EV mandates, and instead champion a technology-neutral approach that rewards innovation, ingenuity, and practicality.”

SEMA champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans’ rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry’s ability to design, manufacture, and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge.

BACKGROUND: SEMA and The Work Truck Association (NTEA) in October filed suit in the U.S. District Court’s Eastern District of California against the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeking immediate declaratory and injunctive relief to stop electric vehicle mandates CARB intends to implement through its ACF regulations.

CARB’s ACF regulation includes requirements that only zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) may cross within California’s borders, regardless of which state the vehicle was purchased or registered. Vehicles covered by the regulation include everything from heavy-duty tractors with sleeper cabs to work trucks, pickup trucks, and light-duty package delivery vehicles. Interstate motor carriers and others whose trucks do not comply the ACF regulation would be barred from operating within the nation’s largest single-state economy for even a moment.

In their lawsuit, SEMA and NTEA contend that CARB’s actions far exceed California’s constitutional and state statutory authority and will have a dire effect on an industry that historically has led the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity–particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.    

SEMA is not an anti-EV organization; rather, the organization is steadfast in its belief that a technology-neutral approach is the best way to achieve lower vehicle emissions. By declaring one technology as the preferred solution of government, California would have kneecapped other potential solutions, regardless of their promise for delivering the results the state seeks. Now, innovators and the free market will have an opportunity to provide meaningful contributions to efforts to eliminate carbon emissions.

Visit www.sema.org for more.