STILLWATER, OK (01.05.26) – Long-Time KICKER Sales Representative Tom Ebeling journeyed into retirement Dec. 31, ending a 40-plus-year career with the audio brand.  Ebeling is the principal at Tree and Associates in Chicago.

“For the past 10-plus years since my arrival at KICKER, I have had the pleasure of working with this industry veteran,” said Tom Heath, KICKER Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing. “We appreciate all of Tom’s efforts and wish him the best of luck spending time enjoying his family and friends.

“Tom has had a huge impact in the Chicago for more than 40 years,” continued Heath.  “As a sales representative you face many challenges each day. Tom has met those challenges and developed a strong dealer and distributor base that has stood the test of time. He built this from the beginning with hard work, developing trust and partnerships with many valued dealers and distributors. His relationship building and knowledge of the business has helped him adapt and develop within a fast-paced industry that is ever changing and continues to this day.

“All my respect for an industry veteran whom we have all learned from,” Heath concluded.  “You will be missed Tom! Enjoy the next chapter of your life!”

Visit kicker.com for more.

NORWOOD, MA (01.05.26) – After a very long, successful and beautiful journey in the Audio industry Lucette and John Nicoll have decided to close Nicoll Public Relations and embark on the new adventure in lifetime retirement.

On December 31, 2025 Lucette and John announced their retirement and closing the successful company of 38 years.

“Since starting the company in 1987, we have had the most amazing clients whose friendships we will cherish forever. And I’ve had the most wonderful husband and business partner to share the journey with. We have made so many friends in this industry, it’s hard to acknowledge every one of you. But please know that you all hold a very special place in our hearts. Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy and joyous 2026 and beyond,” Lucette related.

Nicoll Public Relations provided well-prepared press releases to the 12volt News beginning in 1994. Through the years we have enjoyed working with Lucette and John. The 12volt Central Studios staff wishes Lucette and John a long, happy journey in retirement.

For more see 12voltnews.com

TEMPE, AZ (12.30.25) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce its Digital Fab MasterClass, scheduled for Jan. 23-26, 2026 at the company’s headquarters in Tempe, Ariz.

“Our Digital Fab MasterClass is where old-school craftsmanship meets future-ready innovation,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “This immersive four-day workshop is engineered for fabricators, builders, and designers who want to elevate their interior and fabrication skills to an elite, professional level.”

This hands-on experience blends advanced digital fabrication technologies with high-level craftsmanship to deliver precision, efficiency, and OEM-quality results. Attendees will design and build a complete take-home project using modern fabrication techniques, advanced upholstery processes, and digital manufacturing tools—learning the same methods used by today’s top builders and award-winning shops.

What You’ll Learn During the Digital Fab MasterClass:
• Digital Fabrication & Future-Forward Techniques

• New process: advanced 3D printing techniques that deliver professional, repeatable results
• 2D & 3D CAD/CAM workflow efficiency using Fusion, Aspire, Corel, and Light-Burn
• Live scanning and surfacing demonstrations featuring Peel 3D technology
• Expert-level laser cutting and engraving techniques with hands-on instruction
• Basic-to-advanced drawing examples focused on shape creation and precision line work
• Accent lighting and layering strategies for maximum visual impact
• Custom trim techniques using aluminum machining, acrylic fabrication, and composite
• materials

Is your 3D printer just an expensive paperweight? Not after this class. Participants will learn practical, real-world methods to optimize equipment, streamline software workflows, and achieve consistent, high-quality results using accessible tools and proven processes.

Don’t Miss: Elevated Finishes & Professional Styling:
• Surface texturing techniques using paint and coatings
• Pressed metal grille and insert forming
• Shadow trim and specialty visual effects, including marbling and wood grain
• Veneer and vinyl-wrap techniques for OEM-level design execution
• Professional methods for finishing panel backs with serviceability and refinement in mind

Featured All-Star Guest Presenters:
• Dean Beyett – 5 Star Car Stereo
• Wesley Cato – Anything Car Audio
• Gabrielle Williams – Peel 3D
• Anthony Medina – Medina’s Interior Shop
• Gary Bell – Stinger Solutions

“This MasterClass moves attendees firmly into the Future Fab mindset—combining design, digital automation, advanced materials, and high-end finishing techniques that set elite shops apart,” Schmitt added. “Participants leave with greater confidence, expanded capabilities, and a finished project that demonstrates what’s truly possible.”

The Digital Fab MasterClass will be held Jan. 23–26, 2026, from 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz.

Seating is extremely limited to ensure maximum hands-on instruction and personalized attention.

For more information, please visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.

The following article was published on TheShopMag.com.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (12.30.25) – Minnesota-based Northern Tool + Equipment is partnering with RACER Network to launch a first-of-its-kind television series highlighting the next generation of tradespeople — namely, high school CTE (career and technical education) students. A new four-episode series will follow Tennessee’s LaVergne High School CTE juniors and seniors as they participate in the Legends Challenge: Student Build from Northern Tool — transforming a Harley-Davidson Nightster into an XR750-inspired flat-track racer with hands-on mentorship from racers and builders.

“The work these students are doing belongs on the big screen,” said Frank Crowson, chief marketing officer at Northern Tool + Equipment. “RACER Network fans—and motorsports diehards everywhere—are going to see real talent, determination and teamwork on display. This is a serious challenge; even seasoned pros would be pushed to finish a build like this in just 174 days.”

The series is anticipated to air in 2026. Updates can be found on social media and Northern Tool’s YouTube channel.

Continue reading this article here.

ABILENE, TX (12.23.25) – Kingdom Audio is a proactive 12volt retailer in Abilene, TX. Willie Johnston and Drew Whitten are industry veterans driving business in the 12volt industry along with automotive services.

12volt Central Studios staff members noticed terrific posts that the company is making with PowerBass products which prompted a call to the company. In a call with Drew Whitten he indicated that the way to reach consumers today is social media and not through radio and TV channels. The striking posts utilized graphics of products available from PowerBass and the company created the graphics and added in their logo and contact information.

“All members of the 12volt industry definitely need to work together and utilize all the tools available to let consumers know what we offer to max the safety and enjoyment in their rides” Whitten stated.

Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, related “We provide the logos and images of products for all of our dealers in our dropbox. It’s terrific to see retailers, like Kingdom Audio, utilizing those tools for visibility and to drive business locally.

Kingdom Audio and Whitten Automotive are family owned businesses rooted in the Abilene TX community. The companies prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to exceed expectations from each service. The company also utilizes resources from
other vendors to create social media posts.

Stay tuned for more.

Contact whitten2auto@yahoo.com for more.

Article written by Jackson Chen for engadget.com.

NEW YORK, NY (12.23.25) – Faraway road trips just got a lot easier, at least for the passengers. Sony Honda Mobility, the joint venture between the two Japanese conglomerates created to produce electric vehicles, announced that its Afeela EV will come with PS Remote Play. While playing video games in a car may be a niche feature, it means drivers will have something to do when parked, and passengers can chip away at their favorite RPGs during long drives.

According to the announcement, the Afeela will be able to run your PS5 and PS4 consoles remotely through the infotainment system’s integrated display. You can even grab your DualSense controller from home and get right back into the game after jumping in your Afeela. Sony Honda Mobility said a 5Mbps broadband connection is required to play, and a 15Mbps rate will deliver a smoother experience.

Read the full article at engadget.com.

NAMPA, ID (12.22.25) – The Idaho Center, in the Boise suburb of Nampa, was Livin’Loud during the 2025 KICKER AMA ArenaCross Saturday night December 20th. Area KICKER retailer Sound Hound Stereo, with Byll, Darin and Michelle, were in the KICKER booth with Maddog_Media’s Lorin Morrell.

Morrell, who orchestrates the AMA ArenaCross events, related “It was a great night of action. Saturday night the arena was packed. The Pit Party drew enthusiasts onto the track to get the evening started. The line was backed up to the lobby as people waited to get onto into the Pit Party. Meeting riders and checking out their bikes was enjoyable for all. The KICKER booth in the lobby area had tables with products displayed for car, truck, marine and motorsports. Some of the products were the first time on site at an ArenaCross.”

Continuing “Adding to the evening was a big upgrade in the PA system with 16 KICKER KMTC Marine Tower speakers being driven by KICKER Amps with Zach behind the Mic announcing action on the track. Plus Having Byll, Darin and Michelle in the house for their Sound Hound store was terrific. Their store in Caldwell is only 8 miles from the Idaho Center in Nampa. They certainly did connect with a lot of people and enthusiasts from the area. They reconnected with several from last year and made appoints for jobs in the coming days” Lorin added.

The Sound Hound Stereo team connected with many people and handed out over 200 cards in addition to quoting several jobs. Sound Hound Stereo is celebrating our 30th Anniversary this year. KICKER is a go to brand in the store. Auto, truck, marine and motorsports products are all hot categories in Idaho and KICKER has products in all those categories… Bullfrog portables too. Participating with KICKER again and Livin’Loud at the AMA ArenaCross was certainly a Win Win.

The AMA ArenaCross sponsored by KICKER continues with Round 3 in Loveland, CO January 3rd 2026.

Visit kicker.com for more

SAN GABRIEL, CA (12.22.25) – Audiofrog is happy to announce that we have a new sales and marketing partner. David Tolliver and Jorge Grijalva at Synergy Marketing Agency in Houston Texas are now the official representatives for the Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas markets, effective December 15, 2025.

“Synergy Marketing is thrilled to join forces with Audiofrog, a brand that shares our relentless commitment to ‘uncompromised’ quality and high-end performance. By combining our strategic marketing expertise with Audiofrog’s world-class audio engineering, we aren’t just forming a partnership, we’re creating a new standard for how premium sound experiences are delivered and shared,” stated Jorge Grijalva of Synergy Marketing.

“David and Jorge have tons of experience in the category and we are certain that Synergy Marketing is the right choice to represent Audiofrog and our mission of straightforward tech support and friendly business practices that put smiles on the faces of our customers and retail shoppers,” remarked Andy Wehmeyer, Audiofrog’s president.

Andy added, “If you’re a car audio retailer in the TOLA region and you’re interested in becoming a member of our happy family and building great sounding car audio systems please contact David, Jorge, Manny or me. Contact information is provided below. We’re eager to hear from you!”

Visit audiofrog.com for more.

OXNARD, CA (12.19.25) – BOSS Elite proudly announces it has named Grapevine, Texas-based Southwest Sales and Marketing its new partner for the Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas (TOLA) territory, effective immediately.

“BOSS Elite as well as the TOLA territory are growing, and so we needed a partner with a long history and proven track record to help further guide and grow the brand,” said Colin Ross, Elite Associate Brand Manager. “Scott Ringo and his team at Southwest Sales and Marketing are our ideal partner, as they have been a performance-driven company since 1999. We look forward to a fruitful relationship for years to come.”

Southwest Sales and Marketing will be representing BOSS Audio and BOSS Elite products in the mobile, marine, and powersports/off-road markets.

“BOSS is a managed brand with a wide spectrum of products, with leading-edge technologies at affordable prices,” said Ringo. “As the Elite brand continues to grow and take on more expensive competitors, we look forward to representing its audio and screen lines across multiple markets as they continue to push forward.”

Southwest Sales and Marketing joins Boss Elite at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, held Feb. 3-5, 2026, proudly representing the brand on the show floor.

For more information on Southwest Sales and Marketing, please call 214-212-9049 or email Sringo@swsalesmarketing.com.

For more information on BOSS Elite, please visit bosselite.com or call 805-751-4853.

TEMPE, AZ (12.19.25) – Mobile Solutions is proud to announce its Digital Fab MasterClass, scheduled for Jan. 23-26, 2026 at the company’s headquarters in Tempe, Ariz.

“Our Digital Fab MasterClass is where old-school craftsmanship meets future-ready innovation,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, president, and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “This immersive four-day workshop is engineered for fabricators, builders, and designers who want to elevate their interior and fabrication skills to an elite, professional level.”

This hands-on experience blends advanced digital fabrication technologies with high-level craftsmanship to deliver precision, efficiency, and OEM-quality results. Attendees will design and build a complete take-home project using modern fabrication techniques, advanced upholstery processes, and digital manufacturing tools—learning the same methods used by today’s top builders and award-winning shops.

What You’ll Learn During the Digital Fab MasterClass:
• Digital Fabrication & Future-Forward Techniques

• New process: advanced 3D printing techniques that deliver professional, repeatable results
• 2D & 3D CAD/CAM workflow efficiency using Fusion, Aspire, Corel, and Light-Burn
• Live scanning and surfacing demonstrations featuring Peel 3D technology
• Expert-level laser cutting and engraving techniques with hands-on instruction
• Basic-to-advanced drawing examples focused on shape creation and precision line work
• Accent lighting and layering strategies for maximum visual impact
• Custom trim techniques using aluminum machining, acrylic fabrication, and composite
• materials

Is your 3D printer just an expensive paperweight? Not after this class. Participants will learn practical, real-world methods to optimize equipment, streamline software workflows, and achieve consistent, high-quality results using accessible tools and proven processes.

Don’t Miss: Elevated Finishes & Professional Styling:
• Surface texturing techniques using paint and coatings
• Pressed metal grille and insert forming
• Shadow trim and specialty visual effects, including marbling and wood grain
• Veneer and vinyl-wrap techniques for OEM-level design execution
• Professional methods for finishing panel backs with serviceability and refinement in mind

Featured All-Star Guest Presenters:
• Dean Beyett – 5 Star Car Stereo
• Wesley Cato – Anything Car Audio
• Gabrielle Williams – Peel 3D
• Anthony Medina – Medina’s Interior Shop
• Gary Bell – Stinger Solutions

“This MasterClass moves attendees firmly into the Future Fab mindset—combining design, digital automation, advanced materials, and high-end finishing techniques that set elite shops apart,” Schmitt added. “Participants leave with greater confidence, expanded capabilities, and a finished project that demonstrates what’s truly possible.”

The Digital Fab MasterClass will be held Jan. 23–26, 2026, from 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Mobile Solutions headquarters in Tempe, Ariz.

Seating is extremely limited to ensure maximum hands-on instruction and personalized attention.

For more information, please visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.