SHREVEPORT, LA (12.08.25) – Christmas 2025 is just 17 days away. Holiday lighting outside the store and in the showroom can be a big ticket to drive sales for brick-and-mortar retailers. The in-store experience is more important than ever as the ever-growing AI universe and online activity add to the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar retailers across all categories.
Proactive 12volt retailers across the US are taking steps to create a Holiday theme at their stores. Below are examples of proactive 12volt retailers attracting consumers to their stores and creating the in-store experience. Social media posts spotlighting these activities are extremely important.
Proactive 12volt retailers have big cards in the deck to play to drive business. The “In-Store Listening Experience” and the “Professional Installation” cards are strong aces to play every day. The in-store experience of demonstrating top-quality sound with orchestrated live demos in the showroom is the first ace. Concertgoers are spending billions every year to enjoy the live music experience. Proactive 12volt retailers can put that concert experience in a consumer’s daily driver to enjoy on the way to work—without the big ticket price or the hassle of crowds in a concert arena.
Offering expert installation is another ace in the deck for 12volt retailers to play every day. Installation professionals understand the important aspects of speaker placement for staging and system tuning. Consumers need to understand the importance of professional installation to deliver the concert experience in their daily drivers.
BOCA RATON, FL (12.05.25) — ZZ2, a leader in OEM-integrated automotive technology solutions, is proud to announce the newest addition to its growing product lineup: the DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, officially shipping on December 10th, 2025.
Following the overwhelming success of the DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement for BMW—which quickly became a top seller among dealers and installers nationwide—ZZ2 is expanding its next-generation infotainment upgrade to the Mercedes-Benz market, bringing larger 10.25″ to 12.3″ brighter HD displays and advanced connectivity. As always, the company stands behind its quality products with a 3-year warranty on all DIZZPLAY screen replacements.
Built on the powerful zOS Linux-based operating system, the new system delivers ultra-fast boot-up times and a seamless user experience that feels factory-made—only smarter and more capable.
Tiago Sperandio, Vice President of ZZ2, commented, “The response to DIZZPLAY in the BMW market has been nothing short of incredible. Dealers love how easy it is to install, and customers love how transformative the upgrade feels. Expanding DIZZPLAY to Mercedes-Benz was the natural next step. Our mission at ZZ2 has always been to elevate the driving experience through seamless, intuitive technology—and DIZZPLAY for Mercedes-Benz represents exactly that. We’re proud to deliver an upgrade that feels factory-made while offering the modern features today’s drivers expect.”
The DIZZPLAY Screen Replacement for Mercedes-Benz begins shipping December 10th, 2025, through authorized ZZ2 dealers and distributors.
Dealers interested in early access can visit ZZ2.com/dizzplay or contact their ZZ2 sales representative.
KERNERSVILLE, NC (12.08.25) – Jimmy Cook, the owner of Sounds Good Car Stereo in Kernersville, NC, passed away on Monday December 1, 2025.
Sounds Good Car Stereo is a longtime 12volt retailer in Kernersville NC that is very connected with the community. Boomer Robinson, Ambassador Sales related, “Jimmy was a very good friend and customer for many years. Hearing the news that he had passed away was very sad for me, his family and his friends across the industry.”
David Holland, Shiflet & Dickson stated, “Jimmy was a very good customer and attended many of our dealer shows. It was a very sad day when I learned that he had passed away.”
Jimmy was just 50 years old and spent the majority of his life working in the 12volt industry. Jimmy was proceeded in death by his father Jimmy Cook Sr. He is survived by his mother and his wife Penny Cook along with two beloved children Rylee and Alexander. Funeral services and dates have not been determined.
Boomer Robinson, Ambassador Sales, contributed information to the 12volt Central Studios.
RENO, NV (11.18.25) – THE AMA EnduroCross rolled in the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center for the new season on Friday, November 15th.
“It was great to get back to Reno this year. The Reno-Sparks Livestock venue is perfect for EnduroCross. The whole track area can be seen from the stands and again this year the stands were packed. Also, the lobby was very business as attendees arrived, and in between races, as KICKER dealer Nevada Auto Sound showed new products in the KICKER booth. This year the doors opened at 5:30 and riders sighed autographs by the Kicker booth. Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media related.
The stands were packed watching riders on the track.
During the AMA EnduroCross pre-racing Track Walk fans had a chance to walk the track mounds and visit the pit area. “The Track Walk was a great way to give fans a fun experience. During the Pit Party fans got to meet and talk with their favorite their favorite riders and check out their bikes” Morrell added.
As soon as racers hit the track they got their rhythm as they went around tight turns, eased through beds of logs and boulders and up mounds. Between races the PA announcers let the crowd know to check out the KICKER booth.
Thomas Wing from KICKER Reno dealer Nevada Auto Sound talked with enthusiasts and many had questions about what KICKER products would be best for their rides. The KICKER PowerBar was once again grabbed a lot of interest in the booth. Dana Doyle, Area KICKER rep, was also un he house. Fans from the area also had questions about KICKER products for their trucks, boats, cars, bikes and side-by-sides.
Thomas Wing-Nevada Auto Sound is flanked by Dana Doyle (R), the KICKER Rep in the area along with Lorin Morrell- Maddog Media on the left. The booth was set to showcase a wide variety of KICKER products.
HOUSTON, TX (11.14.25) – The highly anticipated SSR Annual Distributor Show is set for this Sunday. The location is 5725 Hartsdale Drive Houston TX 77036.
“We’re excited to invite dealers across our territory to our annual dealer show in Houston. Join us this Sunday for an exclusive look at some of the latest products, innovations and partnership opportunities with SSR. Attendees can take advantage of special show only deals and holiday season discounts designed to help boost dealers’ margins to end the year strong,” Amir Dhanani stated.
This image shows SSR Houston action from 2022.
At the SSR Dealer Show over 30 vendors will be on site along with trainings from WavTech, Kenwood, JVC, and AudioControl. There will be tons of products to be raffled off including a Blaupunkt E-bike valued at $1600. Attendees will enjoy food and drinks; snacks will be available in this family-friendly environment with plenty for the kids to do. The Annual SSR Distributor Show offers once-a-year deals that dealers don’t want to miss.
Brands on site will include Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood, Firstech, MASSIVE AUDIO, PowerBass, KICKER, SiriusXM, RDVFL, Pioneer, VOXX, ADS, PRV, Omega, Limitless Lithium, SoundSkins, Accele, Jensen, Vinland, Brightway, JVC, Monarch, Autotech, DS18, Metra, Harman, Stinger, SolarGuard, Cicada, SoundQubed and WavTech.
Metra will watch again have a large presence at the SSR Show like this image from last year.
Aisles will once again be packed like this image from 2023.
Make sure the SSR Annual Dealer Show in Houston is on your schedule for this Sunday, November 16th.
OXNARD, CA (11.14.25) – BOSS Audio Systems is proud to announce that its Elite line of four new amplifiers are now shipping.
Elite amplifiers use Class-D technology with honest, true power outputs, helping avoid inflation-prone “max power” claims. While others add a premium price point to amps with standard market technologies, the Elite line has been designed for budget-conscious customers who still expect modern amp functionality. With four competitively priced models, Elite delivers power for any installation requirement and is the smart choice for enthusiasts who demand performance without the premium price tag. Elite strives to represent BOSS Audio’s passion for delivering refined audio experiences, evolving to meet industry demands for sound quality and thoughtful engineering. BOSS Elite continues to improve upon and deliver upgraded components, enhanced durability, extended warranties, and premium features, which are all showcased in the new Elite amplifier series. Built to perform, Elite amplifiers take it a step further for those who demand the very best in quality, reliability, modern features, and expert-backed service.
Elite builds on BOSS Audio’s commitment to making quality audio accessible, delivering enhanced performance for users ready to upgrade. The new Elite amplifier series features improved components, extended warranties, and modern features that deliver quality engineering and reliable performance where it counts.
The new line includes: • BE830.5D: 830W, 5-channel Class D ($329.99 MSRP) • BE600.4D: 600W, 4-channel Class D ($259.99 MSRP) • BE600.1D: 600W, Mono Class D ($219.99 MSRP) • BE400.1D: 400W, Mono Class D ($189.99 MSRP)
With Elite amps, customers can upgrade older vehicles with improved sound and quality that modern amplification delivers. While the industry often inflates power ratings, Elite is committed to transparent, accurate specifications, setting a new standard that builds trust with dealers and end users alike.
Key Elite amplifier features and specifications include: • True power ratings • High-level RCA & speaker level inputs • LED illuminated end panels • PWM MOSFET power supply • Compact design to fit nearly any install • Auto turn-on • Variable crossover control • Bridgeable options • Included wired remote bass control • 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
“Dealers and installers have been patiently waiting to get their hands on our new Elite amplifiers, and we are proud to offer all four models for their customers,” explained Colin Ross, BOSS Elite Associate Brand Manager. “Our high-tech offerings are meticulously priced to deliver exceptional value, making advanced features accessible to a broader audience.”
The Elite series amplifiers are now available through authorized BOSS Elite dealers.
For more information on BOSS Elite, please visit bosselite.com.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.14.25) – The 2025 SEMA Show wrapped up four dynamic days in Las Vegas, reinforcing its role as the automotive aftermarket’s most influential business event. With more than 153,000 attendees from 140 countries and regions, 2,300 exhibiting brands – including 500 first-time exhibitors – and more than 2,500 members of the global media, the Show delivered a concentrated environment for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Its impact extends well beyond SEMA Week, serving not only as a center for international business, but also as the epicenter of automotive culture and lifestyle, connecting the aftermarket to millions of enthusiasts worldwide and fueling growing interest and demand for industry products.
From left: SEMA President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mike Spagnola, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) CEO/President Steve Hill, SEMA Board Chair Melanie White, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, First Congressional District of Nevada Rep. Dina Titus, and National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) President Glen Cromwell.
Driving Global Business Forward
The SEMA Show serves as a dynamic crossroads for commerce and creativity, where the industry’s top innovators and brands gather to define the future of automotive performance and personalization. This year spotlighted ingenuity and resilience, offering a launchpad for product debuts, strategic partnerships, and forward-looking insights.
“The SEMA Show is a global pop-up marketplace where business and culture intersect,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “This year highlighted the industry’s ability to adapt and innovate, from emerging propulsion technologies to next-generation customization trends. By connecting manufacturers, buyers, and enthusiasts in one dynamic environment – and extending the connection well beyond the Show itself – it continues to shape the future of automotive performance, personalization, and industry direction.”
Innovation to Power the Future
Innovation ran through every hall and activation. A broad spectrum of propulsion technologies, from internal combustion and hybrids to hydrogen and battery-electric platforms, stood alongside advancements in materials, connectivity, and design. Between the Show floor and New Products Showcase, organized into 15 distinct product categories, thousands of new innovations debuted, underscoring the industry’s relentless drive to evolve and push boundaries. The future of ADAS was also on display from market leaders introducing the latest tools and equipment to repair and modify vehicles, and conversations about the future were facilitated in in the new ADAS Showcase feature.
The Pinnacle of Personalization
The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mother’s Polish celebrated the industry’s most innovative custom builds. This year’s category winners included Troy Trepanier’s handcrafted 1936 Ford Roadster (Overall Champion), Tim Franklin’s refined 1960 Porsche 356, Thomas Dickerson’s standout 1967 Chevrolet C10, and Ron Jones’ radically reimagined 1973 VW Thing, each setting new benchmarks for creativity and craftsmanship.
Headline Reveals and Cultural Impact
OEMs leveraged the Show to launch bold concepts blending heritage with innovation, reinforcing commitments to performance, personalization, and alternative propulsion.
Ford showcased its Ford Custom Garage packages, including performance accessories for the F-150 Raptor R and previews of future customization options.
Honda highlighted race-inspired builds under its HRC Performance Parts banner, reinforcing its motorsports heritage.
Mopar/Stellantis drew attention with the Ram 1500“The Dude,” a retro sport truck concept, and the Dodge SIXPACK Charger concept — a 550-hp twin-turbo build featuring carbon-fiber aerodynamic enhancements.
Nissan introduced off-road and performance concepts, including a rugged Frontier Project Adventure and a track-focused Z NISMO showcase, complemented by immersive experiences and branded merchandise.
Toyota unveiled the Camry GT-S, Tacoma H2-Overlander, and revived the Scion name with the Scion 01 hybrid side-by-side, emphasizing creativity and versatility across segments and powertrains.
These reveals reflect a broader vision: connecting enthusiasts through factory-backed customization, alternative fuels, and storytelling that resonates across generations.
Celebrity Influence and Industry Leadership
Automotive legends, entertainers, and business leaders elevated the Show’s cultural energy. Jay Leno and Tim Kuniskis, Ram Brand Chief Executive Officer at Stellantis, opened the week with a fireside chat on design and propulsion strategies at the annual Kickoff Breakfast. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem joined SEMA President Mike Spagnola for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the opening of the 2025 SEMA Show and reinforcing its global significance. Earlier this year, the two organizations announced a strategic partnership focused on advancing mobility policy and safety standards worldwide.
Motorsports icons including Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, Tony Stewart, and Lia Block connected with fans, while Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias unveiled his custom VW Bus and car care kit alongside Leno. Sung Kang brought star power and industry engagement, promoting his upcoming movie Drifter, hosting the SEMA Industry Honors event, re-envisioned in a new format at the BleauLive Theater in the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and meeting fans at his booth featuring several of his personal builds.
Connecting Passion and Business
SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public bridged the gap between industry and enthusiasts, creating immersive experiences that celebrated car culture and inspired future builders. At SEMA Fest, Fans enjoyed live music from Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes and Neon Trees, motorsports demonstrations, and car displays, while inside the Show, consumers connected with brands and custom builders. These activations reinforced the Show’s role as a cultural and business hub, where passion fuels progress.
Millions of enthusiasts around the globe were able to follow and engage with the Show through 31-hours of content livestreamed on SEMA Live, solidifying the Show as the center of automotive universe during the most powerful week of the year.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 SEMA Show was a launchpad for ideas that will shape the automotive landscape in the years ahead. By uniting global leaders, breakthrough technologies, and cultural energy under one roof, the event reaffirmed that innovation is the heartbeat of the aftermarket.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.07.25) – Automotive Concepts from Minneapolis, Minn., won the 2025 SEMA PRO (Professional Restylers Organization) Cup Challenge for its accessorized 2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew that demonstrates the value and artistry of the automotive restyling industry.
Held at the 2025 SEMA Show, the PRO Cup Challenge invites automotive restylers to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The restyling shop’s Ford F-150 SuperCrew was selected for its marketability, creativity, ease of replication, and profitability by a panel of judges.
SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, center, with members of Automotive Concepts.
The Ford F-150 SuperCrew showcases golden anniversary graphics celebrating 50 years of the iconic model. Built around the theme “Black Label,” a term typically reserved for the pinnacle of its kind, the truck offers a fresh take on a concept never explored in the restyling space. The “5.0” badging pays homage to the powerful 5.0 Coyote engine under the hood, further emphasizing the vehicle’s performance pedigree.
“Automotive Concepts’ build showcases exactly what the PRO Cup Challenge is about: turning creativity into real business opportunity,” said Kevin Gillis, PRO Chair. “They’ve created a one-of-a-kind vehicle that dealerships can sell, customers will love, and the aftermarket can capitalize on. It’s exciting, it’s attainable, and we’re proud to honor them for this achievement.”
2025 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge winner: 2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew.
The PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award winner: 2025 Lexus GX 550 by Auto Additions.
Auto Additions from Westerville, Ohio, earned the PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award for its customized 2025 Lexus GX 550, as voted on by SEMA Show attendees. Themed the “Takumi Edition,” the build features premium accessories from Eastman/Llumar, XPEL, TRI State, Oracle Lighting, Tentative Rago Fab, Avery, Voxx, Luxwood, and Katzkin. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Takumi, meaning “artisan,” the theme pays tribute to master craftsmanship, a distinction achieved only after more than 60,000 hours of honing one’s skills.
Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Sun Line Sunroofs (2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500), Mars of Billings (2026 Kia Sportage), Auto Trim Restyling (2025 Toyota 4Runner), and DV8 Customs (2025 Ford Bronco).
For information on the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, visit www.semapcc.com.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.07.25) – BLAUPUNKT has announced the debut of the BP-1200A, a 12-inch active subwoofer enclosure. This all-in-one (AIO) system is engineered to deliver powerful low-frequency output by perfectly matching a high-excursion 12-inch driver with a high-efficiency, built-in Class-D amplifier.
The BP-1200A is designed as a streamlined solution for installers and enthusiasts seeking significant bass impact without the complexity of component matching. The system is built around a robust 12-inch, 4-ohm Single Voice Coil (SVC) driver capable of handling 250W continuous (RMS) and 500W peak power.
The new PB-1200A spotlighted on display in the Blaupunkt booth at SEMA 2025.
The driver’s formidable performance stems from its advanced material science and engineering:
Cone & Surround: A rigid, injection-molded polypropylene (PP) cone ensures minimal flex and fast transient response, while a high-roll rubber surround facilitates the driver’s impressive 10mm of linear excursion (Xmax).
Motor Structure: A powerful ferrite magnet assembly provides the high magnetic flux necessary for precise cone control and efficiency.
Acoustic Parameters: The driver’s Thiele/Small (T/S) parameters are optimized for performance, featuring a low resonant frequency fs of 29Hz and a Qts of 0.49. This engineering results in a system with a wide frequency response of 25Hz to 500Hz, allowing it to reproduce the lowest sub-harmonics with authority.
The integrated Class-D amplifier is factory-tuned to the driver’s 250W RMS power handling, eliminating the guesswork of amplifier pairing. This high-efficiency topology ensures maximum power is converted to sound, not heat, resulting in a system that is both powerful and reliable, even in compact install locations.
“The BP-1200A addresses the critical market need for a high-performance, all-in-one bass solution,” said Chuck Kenney, National Sales Manager. “We’ve engineered the driver and amplifier as a single, cohesive system. Installers will appreciate the simplicity, and customers will be impressed by the deep, accurate bass that comes from a driver with a 29Hz fs and 10mm of Xmax.”
The system is housed in a durable, tuned enclosure and features a protective trim ring, making it a rugged and professional addition to any vehicle’s audio system.
LAS VEGAS, NV (11.06.25) – The highly anticipated 2025 SEMA Show rolled again on Day 2, Wednesday, November 5th. Leading innovators, manufacturers and influencers in the automotive aftermarket are drawing attendees from around the globe for the unmatched 4-Day event in the Las Vegas Convention Center. Reports indicate that overall attendance may approach last year‘s 140,000 attendees.
All the space on the LVCC grounds are loaded and ready.
Attendees wait for the doors to open to the Central Hall.
The 12volt industry”s nearly 8 dozen exhibitors are concentrated in the LVCC North Hall. The massive West Hall, Central Hall, South Hall and lots out front were very busy also on Day 2 also.
From the 12volt Central Studios staff members continue to work to showcase the activities of those 12volt exhibitors to extend the ROI of their very significant investments. The images following below were supplied by 12volt exhibitors rolling in the LVCC North Hall. These images are just a few of the action shots supplied by industry members who utilized the 12voltSTP Tool. Stay tuned for much more from the 12 Volt Central Studios the rest of the week and beyond.
The 12voltSTP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase a company’s positive activities and products. Snap and txt an image to 318 469 2526. PRESTO! Your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is certainly true for the business realm that includes a 12volt industry.
We look forward to seeing your company’s news in the 12volt Central Studios.
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