DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.07.26) – SEMA has issued a call for speakers for the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas. Organizers are seeking experts who can present new ideas, trends, technologies, and expertise at sessions that will help industry members take their businesses and careers to the next level. The Show will host education days Tuesday, Nov. 3, through Thursday, Nov. 5.
Innovative thought leaders and dynamic presenters who can share new skills and ideas targeted to the automotive aftermarket are invited to apply at www.semashow.com/speakers.
The educational sessions are a key pillar of the SEMA Show, where thousands of industry professionals gather to learn new business strategies and best practices. The SEMA Show education program provides relevant, engaging, and inspiring information on the industry’s complex issues and topics.
Topics of focus for 2026 include:
Aftermarket updates and future trends
Emerging and executive leadership
Legislative and regulatory
Sales and marketing
Small-business strategy
Talent management
Vehicle technology
Industry segment-specific topics
Speaker proposals for the 2026 SEMA Show must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 13, at www.semashow.com/speakers.
For more details, contact SEMA Senior Manager of Professional Development Gary Vigil at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.
The 2026 SEMA Show is set for Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at http://www.semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4; to sign up for notifications, visit here.
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.06.26) – Building on decades of audio innovation, Pioneer introduces SPHERA, the world’s first aftermarket spatial audio in-dash receiver to feature Dolby Atmos® playback in Apple CarPlay. To date, in-vehicle Dolby Atmos has been available only in models equipped with Dolby Atmos-enabled sound systems. With SPHERA, Pioneer expands access to Dolby Atmos through an aftermarket solution that can be installed in millions of existing vehicles, delivering an immersive sound experience leveraging speakers already in the vehicle.
Following last year’s CES prototype demonstration of in-vehicle spatial audio, Pioneer now brings that vision to life with SPHERA, an Apple CarPlay in-dash receiver featuring Dolby Atmos playback capability. With SPHERA, drivers can stream their favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts in Dolby Atmos from many popular streaming services1 for a richer in-car entertainment experience with added depth, clarity, and detail.
“For over 80 years, Pioneer has achieved many technological ‘firsts’—from the world’s first car CD player to the first aftermarket CarPlay integration,” said Chris Ono, CEO & Chairman of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “SPHERA is the next bold chapter in that legacy. Guided by our corporate mission, ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul’, we developed a product that brings the rich, detailed sound of Dolby Atmos that moves the soul, to a solution that can be installed in many vehicles on the road today. With SPHERA, we are expanding access to immersive sound, allowing more drivers than ever to enjoy music with the clarity and emotion its creators intended.”
OPTIMIZED 4-CHANNEL SOLUTION
Pioneer’s SPHERA features technology from Dolby that enables a rich Dolby Atmos experience delivered over 4-channels. SPHERA leverages a vehicle’s existing front and rear speaker locations to create a rich, immersive listening experience powered by Dolby Atmos. The combination of Dolby Atmos playback technology and Pioneer processing precisely manages sound reproduction to provide a practical, installation-ready upgrade path and the ability to add a spatial audio experience in many consumers’ existing vehicles.
POWERED BY PURE AUTOTUNING TECHNOLOGY
SPHERA integrates Pioneer’s PURE Autotuning technology, a proprietary in-vehicle calibration system engineered specifically for the acoustic challenges of the automobile interior. Vehicle cabins vary widely in size, shape, and materials, and aftermarket upgrades can further influence acoustical variables. To account for and adapt to these differences, PURE Autotuning technology precisely adjusts time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to optimize performance and place the listener at the acoustical center position. This level of accuracy is essential for delivering a Dolby Atmos experience that is true to the creative intent of musicians and content creators.
MODERN INTERFACE AND INSTALLATION-READY DESIGN
SPHERA pairs its audio innovations with a refined hardware and interface platform engineered for real-world automotive use. A vibrant 10.1” HD capacitive display delivers crisp visibility and responsive control, supported by Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface for fast, intuitive adjustments on the road. Leveraging the large screen size, a split-screen mode reserves a portion of the screen for easy access to key features and controls. The integrated Pioneer Luminous Bar adds a subtle visual signature to the dash, featuring an Enhanced Visual Mode for navigation support and Music Synchronization Mode to sync lighting with your audio. Wireless connectivity keeps the experience streamlined through wireless CarPlay, wireless Android Auto™, and Bluetooth®. Designed for universal aftermarket installation, SPHERA fits a wide variety of vehicles with minimal modification, ensuring that immersive audio reaches drivers without an overly complicated upgrade process.
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
Launching at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, SPHERA will be showcased at Pepcom at Paris Las Vegas as well as Pioneer’s booth located in LVCC, West Hall — 3527, where on-site demos will be available.
Pioneer SPHERA will be available in Spring 2026 through Pioneer’s network of authorized retailers, both in-store and online, including Best Buy, Crutchfield, and others. Pricing will begin at$1,300.
For more information about Pioneer SPHERA, as well as other products launched at CES 2026, go to usa.pioneer.
OLATHE, KS (01.06.26) – Garmin has announced the JL Audio® AP Amplifiers, an all-new series that delivers powerful audio to every part of the boat or off-road vehicle with an ultracompact design. Boaters and adventure-seekers can choose from four different options, including a model with Bluetooth® technology that seamlessly connects with a compatible smartphone to stream audio on the go.
“Make any boat or off-road vehicle’s audio system the life of the party with our new JL Audio AP Amplifiers that allow you to play your favorite songs loud and clear. They are built to withstand a demanding environment, delivering superior audio quality year after year.”
–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing
Choose your amplifier
Operating with an efficient Class-D design, the JL Audio AP Amplifiers offer increased power to connected speakers and subwoofers with a lower battery drain than Class-AB amplifiers. Available in four different options, boaters and off-road enthusiasts can choose the model that best fits their audio setup.
For users looking for easy installation, the 200-watt RMS 4 Channel includes Bluetooth technology for direct audio streaming in addition to an AUX input.
For those with smaller systems that need more bass, the 300-watt RMS Monoblock is designed to power a single subwoofer.
For those looking to power a complete sound system, the 300-watt RMS 4 Channel powers four pairs of speakers or two pairs of speakers and a subwoofer.
For those with larger systems, the 600-watt RMS 6 Channel is designed with staggered power that can run up to six pairs of speakers or four speakers and one subwoofer.
Three of the amplifiers contain Easy Tune functionality that offers audio optimization, speaker protection and allows for digital set-up. Customers can also easily access physical controls right on the integrated top panel display to manually adjust their amplifier’s settings.
Resilient design
Constructed with a tough cast alloy casing, the JL Audio AP Amplifiers keep the beat going year after year. They carry an IP67 rating2 for resistance to water and dust. The amplifiers also feature a built-in LCD display for manual control, while the 4 Channel model with Bluetooth technology includes a remote.
These amplifiers are rugged and can be easily installed to a variety of boats, ATVs, UTVs and other power sports vehicles, augmenting any vehicle’s sound system.
Available to purchase on www.garmin.com on Jan. 8, 2026, the JL Audio AP Amplifiers have suggested retail prices starting at $499.99. To learn more, visit garmin.com/jlaudio.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is now accepting applications for the 2026 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, an initiative designed to help students and emerging professionals launch successful careers in the automotive industry.
Through the scholarship program, eligible students may receive awards of up to $5,000 to support their education at accredited universities, colleges, and vocational or technical schools in the United States and Canada. SEMA also offers loan forgiveness awards of up to $2,000 for employees of SEMA-member companies who have completed a qualifying program of study and are actively repaying student loans.
“The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund exists to break down barriers and create opportunities for the next generation of aftermarket professionals,” said Joe Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “By investing in both students and existing employees alike, we are building a stronger talent pipeline, fostering career growth, and securing the future of our industry.”
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to promote career development and create access to opportunities in the automotive aftermarket. As part of this initiative, scholarship recipients are invited to attend the SEMA Show, where they can gain industry insight, connect with industry leaders, and explore career pathways firsthand.
For students like Zachary Beenen, the support from SEMA enabled him to attend the college of his choice: Oklahoma State University. Beenen is currently majoring in mechanical and aerospace engineering with a future career in the area of performance vehicles.
“I am forever thankful for scholarships like SEMA’s that will help me achieve my career goals of working in the performance vehicle industry, while getting the many experiences that college has to offer,” he said.
Scholarship applications are open to high school seniors and college students in the United States and Canada who demonstrate a passion for working in the automotive industry. All disciplines are welcome.
Those interested in applying for a loan forgiveness award must be employed by a SEMA member business, demonstrate passion for an automotive career, possess a degree or certificate from a college, university, or career tech school in the United States or Canada, and have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans.
LOVELAND, CO (01.05.26) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross filled the Blue Arena in Loveland CO on Saturday January 3rd for Round 3 of the 25-26 PRO AMA ArenaCross schedule.
Riders hit the track on the first race
“It was cold outside but inside the action on the track was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Riders were Livin’Loud and fast on the track too. KICKER had a display set up in the lobby area and virtually everyone who entered the Blue Arena passed by the KICKER setup with a selection of products on display” Lorin Morrell, Maddog-Media who orchestrates the KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series stated.
The KICKER booth was set in the lobby for attendees to check out when they entered the event.
Lorin Morrell was joined in the booth by Louie and Ray (LtoR) from Foss Car Toys in Ft Collins.
As enthusiasts came through the lobby they stopped at the booth to KICKER to check out products. Loiue and Ray from FOSS Car Toys in Ft Collins were in the booth with Morrell. “Colorado is truck country so the KICKER L7T under seat drew a lot of attention as did the Harley products and woofers. Powersports is strong in the Rockies so the KICKER PowerBar grabbed attention too. Marine is a growing category in the area along with life style products” Morrell continued.
The 7000 seats in the Blue Arena were almost full.
Lorin along with Louie and Ray from Foss Car Toys flank the winner of the T-shirt toss with the KICKER BULLFROG prize.
The Blue Arena was built as a hockey arena that holds about 7000 people. For the ArenaCross event the stands were pushed back a bit to set up the fairly short, but well designed, dirt track for riders. Over 100 riders during the event were flying high and navigating the tight turns through the evening races from 3:30 until well after 9PM.
Saturday the event got off to an early start as attendees lined up to get on the track for the Pit Party. For about an hour before the racing action enthusiasts met the riders and asked them questions about their bikes while having an opportunity to get autographs, selfies and walk the track .
In addition to the action on the track T-shirts were fired into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. An air cannon fired wrapped KICKER T’s into the crowd. A special T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BULLFROG to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when I hand them their BULLFROG prize is always really special” Morrell offered.
Concluding Morrell added “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross got off to a great start for the 25-26 circuit in Boise and Loveland continued the roll for the KICKER AMA ArenaCross series. It is terrific to see, and feel, the energy from members of the crowd as all are Livin’Loud at KICKER ArenaCross events.”
The next stop for the AMA ArenaCross and Maddog_Media is in Toronto Canada January 9th and 10th for Rounds 4 and 5.
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 Ebeling
“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!”
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.
Lucette and John are all smiles after announcing their new journey into retirement.
“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.
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.
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.
Drew Whitten (L) and Willie Johnston picture in front of Kingdom Audio in Abilene, TX.
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.
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.
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