RESDA, CA. - Crux Interfacing Solutions, Inc., the designer and manufacturer of world leading aftermarket automotive Bluetooth and Radio Replacement Solutions, revealed they were shipping a new (and first to market) integrated Bluetooth solution the BEEBF-32  for the new Ford CAN bus II radios that were introduced by Ford in select vehicles beginning 2012. Most widely targeted for use in the 2012 Focus, Edge and Fiesta the BEEBF-32 is designed to deliver the best sound quality, security, and ease of use in these Ford Can Bus II radios.  Research conducted by Crux Interfacing Solutions with both customers and dealers has driven the development of the BEEBF-32. As a result, these Bluetooth solutions rival the OEM Bluetooth products with integration of the factory steering wheel controls.  Not only does the BEEBF-32 give retailers and expediters a true 'Plug and Play' option but they also incorporate the latest Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP)  to stream music from your cellular phone to the radio!  The BEEBF-32 incorporates these asked for features:

• • - Allows calls to be heard through the factory car speakers.
  • - Allows user to answer and end calls using the steering wheel controls.
  • - Allows user to make calls using voice dialing feature.*
  • - Text to Speech (TTS) announces caller's name or number.*
  • - Using A2DP Technology, allows user to wirelessly stream music via internet radio (Example: Pandora)*
  •   (Note: A2DP Audio will only be heard through the front speakers.)
  • - DSP and Echo-Cancellation allows for clear conversations on both sides of the phone call.
  • - Allows any previously paired mobile phone to automatically re-connect to the Bluetooth interface.
  • - Automatically mutes any source as soon as a call is received, and resumes when call is ended.
  • - 2.1 Bluetooth Compliant
  • Allows the user to take calls in privacy mode.

"It is important to Crux Interfacing Solutions to create Bluetooth solutions that meet or out-perform  any other product in the marketplace and our engineers paid attention to customer feedback to create just that," said Michael Griffin, Southern California Marketing Consultant for Crux Interfacing Solutions. "From concept to production the Crux products has evolved quite a bit. Our model BEEBF-32 is a 'value-addition interface' for retailers and expeditors to be installed in the new 2012 Ford Vehicles including the Focus, as most Focus vehicles are lacking in factory installed Bluetooth. We are bringing you a different Bluetooth solution that promises to be more than what your customers expected."

Avon Lake, Ohio - – Boom Mat™, a division of Design Engineering, Inc. (DEI) and a leading brand of automotive performance acoustical and thermal insulation, introduces a new Jeep Wrangler Sound Deadening Headliner for 1997-2006 TJ models.  Riding in a Jeep is great fun except for the truck’s propensity for interior noise that makes it difficult to hear conversations or enjoy your stereo.  Now there is an easy solution. Boom Mat’s new Jeep Wrangler sound deadening headliner is a simple peel and stick kit that dresses up the interior of Jeep hard tops while minimizing annoying outside noise with high quality marine grade acoustical foam that resists mold and mildew insulating you from outside heat or cold with an R4 value.  With use, the headliner reduces noise levels 3 to 4 decibels.  This is a significant change in noise level that will make it easier to have conversations and enjoy your favorite music. 

Boom Mat’s Sound Deadening Headliner is available in black, gray or white for all hard top equipped Jeep Wrangler 2 & 4 door JK’s 2007 to 2012 and for the 1997-2006 TJ’s.  For more information on Boom Mat’s new Jeep Wrangler Sound Deadening Headliner, just one of many Boom Mat performance acoustical and thermal insulation products, visit: www.BoomMat.com.  For technical assistance on this and other Boom Mat products, call toll free at 800-264-9472, or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Oxnard, Calif., - Scosche Industries announces it is now shipping two new installation kits for the Kia Forte.  Another Scosche “Custom Kit, Factory Fit”, the KA2410B and the KA2410SB are specifically designed for the 2011 Kia Forte.

For a seamless installation of an aftermarket head unit, both the KA2410B and KA2410SB will accommodate either an ISO single DIN mount with pocket or an ISO double DIN mount.  The kits are made with high strength ABS/PC material, contour and color matched to the factory dash. The KA2410B is painted black and the KA2410SB is painted silver. Each kit comes with a pocket, mounting brackets and retention clips, making an aftermarket installation simple.

The  KA2410B and KA2410SB vehicle specific installation kits will retail at $49.95 and include all the necessary hardware and detailed installation instructions. For a complete aftermarket installation, Scosche also manufacturers the matching harness and antenna adapter. Both kits will use the same harness, the HY10B which retails for $19.95 and same antenna adapter, KAAB retailing for $19.95.  The new 2011 Kia Forte kits and all Scosche products are available at specialty retailers across the nation. Visit www.scosche.com for more information on this and other “Custom Kit, Factory Fit” products.

Domestic Investment Group LLC (DIG), owner of the Diamond Audio, Cerwin-Vega Mobile, Caché, and IQ Smart Solutions brands announces the addition of Larry Frederick to the company as Domestic Sales & Marketing Director. 

Larry is an industry veteran with over 25 years, and is considered one of the pioneers of high-end car audio as we know it today. He has developed over a 1,000 car audio products over his career and has 5 Design & Engineering awards from CES and 2 design patents. 

His responsibilities at DIG will include managing various sales territories throughout the Domestic U.S. market and assist with developing new product and marketing opportunities for the company’s array of brands. 

“I can’t wait to hit the streets with our reps and retailers and show them what we have to offer”, adds Frederick. “The future that I see looks really bright as we go into 2012 and 2013 as we are already working on new and innovative products”. 

“We look forward to Larry having an immediate impact with our company due to his industry experience, vast product knowledge, and training skill sets. The respect and relationships he has developed throughout his career will be an asset to our company’s continued growth”, adds Bob Chanthavongsa, Director of Sales, Worldwide for the company. 

Justin Miller, Regional Sales Manager, continues management of his assigned sales territories.

LOS ANGELES - V-MODA, the maker of award-winning and critically acclaimed headphones including the Crossfade M-80 and LP, is amped to announce the latest addition to the Ear Armor^TM hearing protection line, Faders VIP.  

Like the original Faders, the VIP edition protects your hearing by evenly reducing harmful noise levels by 12dB across the frequency spectrum, while still allowing for music and speech to pass with crystal clarity.  The noise reduction can make the difference between an enjoyable listening experience and lifelong hearing loss.  Tuned by professional DJs, producers, doctors and featuring four sizes of medical grade fittings to fit even the smallest and largest of ears, Faders VIP also boasts a new detachable cord and a high quality carrying case giving club, concert and event-goers advanced hearing protection.

“Last year’s launch of Ear Armor, Inc. created a windfall of amazing feedback from musicians to race and concert-goers.  Loud events coupled with the popularity of smartphones, MP3 players and headphones have created a pandemic of hearing loss in everybody from kids to adults and too little is being done to stop it and educate customers.  Faders are a universal solution to fully enjoy music and conversations without the damaging effects of higher decibels that cause irreversible noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus,” says Val Kolton, Chief Visionary Officer and Founder of V-MODA. “Both the cheapest foam and the most expensive custom ear plugs can muddle sound quality and push debris too far into your ear canal causing even more damage to your ears.”

The concept for Ear Armor and Faders was born when V-MODA founder and accomplished DJ, Val Kolton, was in Spain with fellow legendary DJ, Erick Morillo. During Erick’s set, Kolton noticed the sound level meter of the dance floor in the DJ booth.  He had an immediate epiphany that DJs were unknowingly spinning at unsafe sound levels because the speakers in the DJ booth and dance floor are at separate volumes and the sound levels far exceed safe limits.  While Val had used custom earplugs himself for many years, they were too expensive, fit too far in the ear canal and did not have good enough sound for playing live or for the masses.

V-MODA Faders VIP comes in 3 color variations Gunmetal Black, Rouge Red and Electro Pink.  They are available now exclusively for $20 at V-MODA.com and Amazon.com.  Each set of Faders VIP includes four sizes of medical grade BLISS 3.0 hybrid-silicone fittings to perfectly fit ears of all sizes allowing you to fine tune your experience without costly and time-consuming custom ear molds.  For more information about the hearing loss pandemic and its causes, please visit V-MODA.com/FADERS-VIP.

After reading an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association which found that one in five American teenagers had some degree of hearing loss – a startling 31% increase since the late 80s, Val immediately revamped the V-MODA R&D Labs with a mission to develop the opposite of headphones - the world’s finest earplugs.

InTheLoop Foundation Charity

A portion of all proceeds go to the “InTheLoop Foundation”, a non-profit organization founded by the Kolton family to educate and promote “practicing safe sound”. The foundation is dedicated to the cause of educating people, especially young adults and teens about the importance of protecting their hearing for life. In TheLoopFoundation also provides scholarships and workshops for deserving individuals to pursue their audio dreams.

ABOUT V-MODA and Ear Armor^TM

Ear Armor is a new company whose mission is to defend hearing through high fidelity ear protection and knowledge. Led by V-MODA’s Val Kolton and legendary DJ Erick Morillo, Ear Armor products are designed to protect hearing without compromising enjoyment.

V-MODA is the maker of the finest professional quality and modern audiophile products. Its products are distinguished by an extreme passion for music, materials, fashion-forward design and unparalleled quality. Led by professional DJ and Chief Visionary Officer, Val Kolton, V-MODA products blend the inspiration of Italian design, the essence of music, and the charisma of Hollywood. Together with design extraordinaire Joseph Bucknall, the world’s most influential producers, musicians and DJs, V-MODA is constantly challenging the norm and forging the remix revolution.

STILLWATER, USA - With this summer’s HOT ROD Magazine Power Tour^® quickly approaching, KICKER^® Performance Audio is excitedly gearing up for the Stillwater, Okla., stop on Thursday, June 7, which is taking place at its World Headquarters.  The Tour has made KICKER the official Thursday Cruise Night Sponsor for the 2012 event.

Chevrolet Performance presents the 18^th annual HOT ROD Magazine Power Tour is the ultimate hot-rodding journey, gathering car enthusiasts from all over the world to sightsee, explore and show off their custom car creations in car-crazy towns all over the U.S. Throughout the seven days Hot Rod owners will be able to pick up and take off from any city following fellow car enthusiasts to the final destination, this year in Arlington, Texas.

This seven-day, seven-city tour will travel over 1,400 miles thru six states, attracting more than 4,700 cars and 75,000 spectators.  All makes and models of hot rods, street rods, custom trucks and street machines will be along for the ride.

During the Tour’s stop at KICKER, hands-on demos of KICKER’s high-quality audio gear will be given throughout the day’s entirety, with an emphasis on Powersports products that perform in varied mobile environments including hot rods and classic cars.

“KICKER has made a conscious effort to develop specific products that satisfy the needs of custom and rod builders who place a premium of preserving original equipment in dash boards,” KICKER Global Marketing Director Kevin Campbell said. 

Among the new products that suit hot-rod enthusiasts is KICKER’s PXi50.2 Amplified Controller for iPod^®/iPhone^®, which is the perfect solution for users to add tunes to vehicles not previously equipped with a music source, and without jeopardizing the overall look.  Also being previewed are the brick-sized PX-Series Amplifiers that can be hidden in previously unusable spaces, making them ideal for hot rods.

In addition to product demos and giveaways, facility tours of the Visitors Center will be ongoing during the day.  The KICKER Visitors Center and gift shop, located inside the doors of KICKER Headquarters, features tricked-out demo vehicles and large displays that focus on speaker technology, company history, innovation and product development.

Steps away, guests can literally hear and feel the rumble of KICKER’s Wall of Boom.  This massive display stands over 14 feet tall and 20 feet wide, showcasing 28 subwoofers and 46 additional speakers, with 18 amplifiers powering it all. 

Celebrated motorcycle fabricators Dave and Jody Perewitz will also be on hand, signing autographs and visiting with fans.  With more than 30 years experience as a custom bike builder, Dave Perewitz has gained a worldwide reputation as a true master.  Daughter Jody recently set a V-twin, land speed record at Bonneville Salt Flats as only the third woman ever to break 200 miles per hour (203.111).

KICKER World Headquarters and Visitors Center is located at 3100 North Husband in Stillwater, Okla., and is open to the public Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  The Center will extend its hours during the HOT ROD Magazine Power Tour.

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.^®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized dealers worldwide, and also through selected Original Equipment Manufacturers. Consumers needing more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud^® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Follow KICKER at facebook.com/kickeraudio and twitter.com/kickeraudio.           

iPod and iPhone are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

HAUPPAUGE, NY – Audiovox Electronics Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of VOXX International Corporation (NASDAQ:VOXX) today announced its newest addition to the Flashlogic program, an upgrade application to its FLCAN has been its most successful introduction yet. The product has been available since late December and the company has increased production to match demand.

For years, FlashLogic has allowed dealers to reduce install time and lower inventory SKU’s. FlashLogic allows total flexibility to a dealer’s inventory as it allows a dealer to download the appropriate software to make it applicable to a wide range of vehicles without requiring vehicle specific SKUs. Simply by uploading the WEBLINK 5 updater from www.flashlogic.com and you are ready to go…. no additional cost…no additional inventory.

The newest member of the FlashLogic FLCAN family turns the factory keyless entry system on select vehicles for a variety of makes and models from the major car manufacturers into a full remote start system without having to add an additional aftermarket remote start system. The company has also made available transmitter upgrade packages including one that provides two-way LCD confirmation and one that will increase the operating range of the FLCAN system to over 1,500 feet.

“We were the pioneers in this technology and we continue to introduce applications that increase the number of cars that can upgrade through our FlashLogic program”, said Tom Malone, president, Audiovox Electronic Corporation. “Our focus on development of products like this reinforces our commitment to help our dealer partners increase productivity, save on installation costs and benefit from the higher profits those programs provide.

“As OE vehicle technology continues to evolve so does our FlashLogic program. Our engineers are currently field testing new applications that will expand our FLCAN vehicle application compatibility. Look for us to announce a GM platform based upgrade in the near future,” concluded Malone.

The following remote start firmware is available immediately for download on the FLCAN:

RS-CH4/CH5:

• Complete data remote start
• Select Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep regular key and “tipstart” models 2005 – 2012
• Short range remote start from OEM keyless entry
• Long range upgrades available

RS-TL1/TL2/TL3:

• Complete data remote start
• Select Toyota / Lexus 40-bit key, 80-kit key and push-to-start models 2007 – 2011
• Short range remote start from OEM keyless entry with long range upgrades available

• Complete data remote start
• 2012 ford focus push to start
• Short range remote start from OEM keyless entry Long range upgrades available

RS-HK2

• Complete data remote start
• Select Hyundai/Kia push to start models 2009-2101
• Short range remote start from OEM Keyless entry
• Long range upgrades available.

This FlashLogic FLCAN system is designed to work with all Prestige, Pursuit, Code Alarm and Pursuitrak remote start products.

Houston, TX - Wet Sounds, the designer and manufacturer of premium audio system components for boats and power sports vehicles has announced a product distribution agreement with AE Distributing, based in Van Nuys, CA. AE Distributing will be able to serve local dealers in the California and adjoining states market, making it faster and easier to get Wet Sounds products for their customers. 

"I'm very excited to have AE Distributing on board to helpd us grow and expand the Wet Sounds brand," saod Shawn Simpson, Vie President of Sales & Marketing for Wet Sounds. "Having a strong fulfillment partner locally will help us connect with even more customers throughout the territory."

Wet Sounds, the winner of two CES Design and Engineering Awards, was created to being high-end audio sound to a challenging environment. All Wet Sounds products are designed to sound great at a minimum of 80' and beyond. All products are constructed from materials specifically made for the harsh marine environment.

"We're very proud to have Wet Sounds as a new member of our product offerings," added John Haynes, General Manager for AE Distributing. "There are many boat and power sport owners in our area, but many dealers either need the product right away or can't make a minimum shipping order. That's where a local fulfillment center can step in and provide Wet Sounds products, next day with no minimum."

New Orleans, LA -  The Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), an organization driving global innovation for phone-centric car connectivity solutions, today announced it has surpassed the 50 member mark. Having grown 50 percent in the first quarter of 2012 alone, and representing 70 percent of automotive and 70 percent of smartphone markets worldwide, the milestone represents a sharp increase in momentum for the MirrorLink™ standard.  The CCC made the announcement at International CTIA WIRELESS 2012 to reflect heightened coordination between the mobile, automotive and consumer electronics industries to make connected driving safer, more intuitive and more enjoyable.

As of today, the CCC’s total member count is 58, a significant number given the group is only 14 months old.  Of the total, 20 members joined in the first quarter of 2012. Complementing this swift rise to prominence, the CCC also announced a pivotal update to MirrorLink that will enable a much larger ecosystem of developers to create software applications for cars.

“Support from the most prestigious brands in the industry bodes extremely well for MirrorLink’s long-term health and makes adopting the standard more attractive for those who are as yet undecided,” said Car Connectivity Consortium Chairman and President Mika Rytkonen. “Whether it’s navigation, music or beyond, consumers expect access to a wide range of smartphone services wherever they go. MirrorLink is a simple, elegant and powerful method of accessing essential apps without having to take hands off the wheel or eyes off the road.”

The latest companies to join the CCC include BMW, Fiat, Ford, KDDI, Renault, JVC Kenwood, Fujitsu, HARMAN, Pioneer and others. Together they are creating an easy-to-use solution allowing consumers to connect any MirrorLink-enabled smartphone with any MirrorLink-enabled vehicle system for access to a wide variety of applications certified for in-car use.

“The CCC is very pleased to see our membership reach this milestone,” said Car Connectivity Consortium Ecosystem Workgroup Chair Alfred Tom. “With the biggest names in the auto, mobile and consumer electronics industries collaborating on a seamless connected-car experience, the opportunities for innovation are virtually limitless.”

Oxnard, Calif. - Scosche Industries (www.scosche.com), a leading innovator of mobile electronic products and accessories for the automotive aftermarket, is pleased to announce it is now shipping a new installation kit for the Mazda 5.  Another Scosche “Custom Kit, Factory Fit”, the MA1548B is specifically designed for the 2012 Mazda 5. 

For a seamless installation of an aftermarket head unit, the MA1548B will accommodate either an ISO single DIN mount with pocket or an ISO double DIN mount.  The kit is made with high strength ABS/PC material, contour and color matched to the factory dash.  The kit comes with a pocket, mounting brackets and retention clips, making an aftermarket installation simple.

The MA1548B vehicle specific installation kit will retail at $49.95 and includes all the necessary hardware and detailed installation instructions. For a complete aftermarket installation, Scosche also manufacturers the matching harness, the MA03B which retails for $19.95 and the antenna adapter, HAAB retailing for $19.95.  The new 2012 Mazda 5 kit and all Scosche products are available at specialty retailers across the nation. Visit www.scosche.com for more information on this and other “Custom Kit, Factory Fit” products.

Simi Valley, CA – Crimestopper SafetyPlus is now shipping the SV9160.N Navigation Mirror Monitor featuring a 4.3” TFT LCD color screen and has been proven to be a safer solution over using an in-dash or portable GPS system. The SV-9160.N replaces the factory rear view mirror.

MSRP: $499.95 Master Carton Qty: 6

The SafetyPlus system features touch screen function and intuitive mapping software; allowing the GPS system to provide the best navigation route.

The SV-9160.N includes a mounting adaptor that enables fit in most vehicles and windshield mounting adaptors are available as well. When the vehicle is in reverse gear, a back-up camera will appear on the 4.3” screen.

Other convenient features include Bluetooth hands-free function, built-in microphone, built-in speaker and the ability to switch to other video sources, such as DVD player or to a smart phone.

Bayville, NY - The FUSION MS-IP700 marine stereo, available now from CWR Electronics, you can create a truly customized and convenient audio solution for your vessel. FUSION is also keeping marine entertainment in sync with your newest portable devices. With full iPad and iPod integration, the MS-IP700 allows you to change the song or station while you're having fun on the deck. 

The MS-IP700 has an AM/FM tuner, VHF receiver, internal iPod/iPhone/USB dock, and is Sirius XM Radio ready. Using the innovative Multi-Zone Control, your boat becomes four separate listening areas. With fully adjustable volume, balance and subwoofer in all 4 zones of the vessel, you have have loud music in the cockpit and quieter music in the saloon. Advanced wireless control is available with the addition of a DCHP Amplifier technology for high output efficiency and low battery drain. Ready for the harsh marine environment, the MS-IP700 complies with IPx5 Waterproof standards, which includes full behind dash water protection.

AVIDWORX Productions Inc. is pleased to announce that we are now accepting submissions for the second edition of our Pay it Forward program, where we’re committed to raising the profile of mobile electronics retailers everywhere, one store at a time.

At the conclusion of the last MERA Knowledgefest conference we chose Lance Putnam of Audio Center in Richmond, Kentucky as our first Pay It Forwardrecipient. We installed a variety of AVIDWORX mobile electronics showcases in his store free of charge, a total value of $16,000, to help Lance enhance his image locally, diversify his product offerings and increase sales. The results, Lance told us, were almost immediate:

“We have had our new showcases for a couple of months now, and the customer response has been wonderful. People naturally gravitate towards the interactive display and comment regularly on how ‘clean’ they look,” wrote Lance. “We have seen an increase in remote start/security upgrades on about 20 percent of our tickets to the tune of $150 to $250. With no sales pressure, people see it, play with it and say ‘I WANT IT!’ My favorite display is the back-up camera and monitors. This is becoming a bigger and bigger part of our business. Selling back-up cameras with this showcase is like selling Snickers bars at a Weight Watchers convention.”

In exchange for the new product showcases, Lance agreed to “pay it forward” by contributing a small share of his sales back into the program. After a few years,our Pay It Forward fund will be self-sustaining, allowing us to continue to fix stores, raise the profile of mobile audio and electronics retailers and get our industry back on track to profitability.

The winner of Pay It Forward, Part II will be announced at the conclusion of the Consumer Electronics Show on Jan. 11, 2013.

To qualify, stores need to “Like” our AVIDWORX Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AVIDWORX), and tell us a little about their store(s) and their goals. We will review the submissions as they come in and make a shortlist of the stores we feel could most benefit from Pay It Forward. At CES, we will pick the final winner at random from our short list of submissions. The value of the prize package will depend on the chosen retailer’s needs, goals, existing product lines and where we feel AVIDWORX can make the greatest difference.

“Over the years, as we’ve worked with hundreds of retailers to upgrade and diversity their retail environments, we noticed that a lot of stores were falling behind,” said AVIDWORX president and quarterback Marcel Newell. “While the products themselves are more advanced, the retail experience has not kept up. We know from our customers and research that our interactive showcases increase sales, that it pays to diversify, that customers from all walks of life are looking for a clean, interactive and user-friendly experience. We know that a good presentation can counter negative trends like internet comparison shopping, and that people will pay more — and buy more — when a store looks like it’s worth it.

“Pay ItForward is about fixing the industry as much as individual stores. It’s about creating a new image for retailers everywhere and raising the game for everyone.”

AVIDWORX Productions Inc. is a global provider of electronics showcases based in British Columbia, Canada. We also provide a wide range of services such as logo and brand development, sales training, business consulting, product labeling and more. Visit us at www.AVIDWORX.com.

Oxnard, CA -  Teen drivers across the country are being told to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and pledge to “Drive it Right” as part of May’s National Youth Traffic Safety Awareness Month.  One of the biggest threats to road safety is the epidemic of cell phone usage while driving, especially among teens. According to a recent article by USA Today, automobile crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the USA, and the risk is highest for young males. Texting, talking and emailing distract young drivers, elevating the risk of an automobile accident.  Youth Traffic Safety Awareness Month hopes to educate teens and empower them to drive safely. Scosche Industries, an innovator in the automotive aftermarket industry, can help teens “drive right” with its new Safe Driving System, cellCONTROL that disables the distracting functions of a smartphone while driving. 

Scosche’s Safe Driving System automatically disables the most distracting functions of a smartphone including handheld phone calls, texting and emailing capabilities. As the vehicle begins to move, cellCONTROL automatically connects to the users phone via Bluetooth to disable distracting functions. The system is completely tamper proof and will automatically alert the system’s administrator with any removal, deactivation or other misuse.

“The temptation to use a cell phone behind the wheel is far too great especially among teens,” said Kas Alves, executive vice president, Scosche Industries.  “cellCONTROL will give parents piece of mind that their kids are less distracted while driving.”

Joel Feldman lost his 21-year-old daughter Casey as a distracted driver hit her while she was crossing the street. As founder of the Casey Feldman Foundation, which sponsors the End Distracted Driving organization dedicated to inspiring individuals and communities to take action to end distracted driving, Feldman dedicates his time speaking about this issue. He stated, “Nearly all teens I talk to say their parents drive distracted, and at times with them in the car.  As parents we need to set the example for our children – we can’t ask them to drive safely when we take chances.  It should not take a personal tragedy for all of us to change the way we drive.”

Scosche’s Safe Driving System easily connects to a vehicle’s OBD2 port and communicates with the smartphone in the vehicle.  All vehicles sold in the United States from 1996 all come standard with an OBD2 port.  Setup is simple, first customers will register the product online then install the application on the user’s smartphone and plug the trigger into the car.  Out of the box, Scosche’s Safe Driving System will enable phone calls with a hands-free device and completely disengages texting, emailing, web access and applications on a smartphone.  Users can still play music from their phones.   

Upgradeable features include reporting capabilities, such as mileage, average speed and enable the administrator to have further control of what is disabled on the users’ phone.   Additionally, users can enable a multi-license account for multiple phones.  Users may even qualify for insurance discounts with the use of the Scosche cellCONTROL.

Some alarming statistics from the National Highway Transportation and Safety Authority (NHTSA) indicated the following:

• 20 percent of injury crashes in 2009 involved reports of distracted driving. (NHTSA).
• Of those killed in distracted-driving-related crashed, 995 involved reports of a cell phone as a distraction (18% of fatalities in distraction-related crashes). (NHTSA)
• The age group with the greatest proportion of distracted drivers was the under-20 age group – 16 percent of all drivers younger than 20 involved in fatal crashes were reported to have been distracted while driving.

“Accidents can happen in an instant,” continued Alves.  “Teens need to understand that it’s not worth risking their lives for that text or call.”

Scosche’s cellCONTROL Safe Driving System retails for $129.95 and is available at www.scosche.com and specialty retailers.  

Grand Blanc, Michigan - DIRECTUS (a Tatmar LLC Company), an industry leader in 12 Volt Automotive & Mobile Electronics, is now INTRAPHEX - a brand name which better reflects the functionality, uniqueness and flexibility of the wide array of innovative automotive mobile electronics that DIRECTUS has been well known for as of late for bringing to the market, along with the future products that are about to take flight, said INTRAPHEX (a Tatmar LLC Company) Monday.

INTRAPHEX behind the scenes has been working exhausting man-hours to develop and validate new vehicle platforms for the Prodigy One integration along with the March 1st, 2012 finalizing of an acquisition of a portion of INTRAPHEX with a key design and manufacturing partner. By completing the acquisition allows INTRAPHEX the ability to have the immediate benefit of having an additional engineering and design team of more than 20 new software and hardware engineers based in Asia and the USA. 

Brad Chapple, Chief Executive Officer who is one of the founders of DIRECTUS in 2009 said, “DIRECTUS remains a well-known and trusted brand today, it became clear that it was the proper time to make these changes and announcements when our manufacturing partner, came together as a part owner of our company and the completion of new unique products that we have ready to release. This is why we felt it’s the proper time to announce the name change, the acquisition and the new products all together.”

To read more, visit www.intraphex.com

Douglasville, Georgia - Omega Research and Development Technologies, Inc. has recently launched upgrades to their legendary tech support installation guide website, wiresheet.com. Enhancements to the website include the creation of a "WebApp" icon for iPhones users that allows them quick access to the wiresheet.com website with click a of the icon as well as an exclusive Omegalink module lookup, access to full owner's and installation guides, and an improved wire look-up. 

"Omega Research & Development Technologies has been committed to our authorized dealer base since day on," said Mike Thompson, Product Development Manager, Omega Research and Development. "We are always looking for ways to deliver a better user and installation process. The recent enhancements we deployed for wiresheet.com is an example of our commitment to our dealers. There are over 100 million iPhones in the market and many of our authorized dealers carry one so it was a no-brainer to create a WebApp that simplifies the ability to access installation support from the point of installation."

"Wiresheet.com is a robust interative website that is constantly evolving. We pride ourselves in providing our dealers not only with the most advanced product on the market, but also with the legendary product and installation support." Thompson concluded. 

Atlanta, GA – Scott Buwalda, the Founder and CEO of Hybrid Audio Technologies, has been confirmed by the International Auto Sound Challenge Association as having posted the highest sound quality score and highest installation quality score of the recent North American Championships; Buwalda’s achievements cap a strong showing by the Team Hybrids competition program.

Hybrid Audio Technologies is a manufacturer of six complete high-end speaker product lines, from the budget-friendly Stage I Mirus line-up available in all popular sizes, to the reference audiophile brand Legatia Special Edition in the company’s Stage VI offering.  The company is elated to announce via written communication from the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) that Hybrid Audio Technologies company founder and CEO Scott Buwalda has been confirmed as having posted the highest aggregate sound quality score of the recent IASCA North American Championships (INAC), as determined by averaging the scores from two judges.  In addition to having posted the highest sound quality score of the event at 441 points, Buwalda also posted the highest installation quality score of the event as well (406 points).  Buwalda went on to win the INAC championship for both sound and installation in IASCA’s most-difficult class, as per the IASCA rulebook definition, Expert Solo.  These wins mark the seventh and eighth lifetime IASCA Expert Division North American Championships by Buwalda, a feat also recognized by IASCA in their letter dated April 15, 2012.

Remarkably, Buwalda’s Infiniti G35 championship system is incredibly simply, and puts a premium on the listening space and components used.  It is also the first time a competitor has won the Expert Division without the use of dedicated high-frequency drivers in the system.  Buwalda relies on the Legatia L3SE, a 3.7-inch wide-bandwidth full-range driver, a speaker driver of his own design (like that of every Hybrid Audio design), to cover the frequencies between 250 Hz up to the extent of human hearing.  The system also utilizes Hybrid Audio Technologies Imagine I6SW 6.5-inch subwoofers in a bandpass arrangement as well, where the Legatia L8SE front-stage midbass are of larger diameter.  The system is also powered by mono-block digital amplifiers as provided by JL Audio.  The tweeterless, small subwoofer bandpass enclosure, digital amplifier system has certainly gone thoroughly against what is largely considered to be a prototypical championship system.

“It was fun competing a car that broke so many of the ‘audiophile rules’ of car audio system design” jokes Buwalda.  “It is incredibly fulfilling giving system demonstrations and revealing to the listener the lack of tweeters, use of bandpass subwoofers, and use of full-range digital amplifiers, only to witness widespread heartfelt disbelief in the system’s arrangement.  It is a testimony to solid installation strategy and the use of exceptional Hybrid Audio drivers in concert with the right electronics and fine tuning.”

Hybrid Audio-equipped vehicles won the top three classes at the INAC championships, including Larry Woolacott’s Buick Regal in the Pro Ultimate class (both sound and installation), John Marsh’s Mitsubishi Eclipse in Expert Two-seat sound quality, and the wins by Scott Buwalda with his Infiniti G35 in the Expert Solo division.  Larry Woolacott also won the coveted IASCA Triple Crown 2-Seat for having the highest RTA, SPL, sound, and installation scores for that judging criteria.  Other high placements were achieved by Team Hybrids members Rob Hilton (3^rd place Amateur), Bramouse Mohammed (4^th place, Amateur), Stephen Lasher (5^th place, Amateur), Louis Chouinard (2^nd place Pro-Am), Hajji Grape (5^th place Pro-Am), Jim Meyer  (2^nd place Pro), Chris Lacombe (3^rd place Pro), and James Halter (4^th place Expert 2-Seat).  

Diamond Bar, Calif.  -  Nick Arias Jr., Bill France Sr., Mark Heffington and Bob Larivee Sr. will be inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame, an honor that recognizes an elite group of individuals for raising the stature or growth or the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Hundreds of industry professionals will gather and pay tribute to the new Hall of Fame members during the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. Those interested in learning more about the celebration or how to attend may visit www.sema.org/galatix or contact Michelle Harris at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. "> This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , 909/978-6684.

Nick Arias Jr., Nick Arias Racing Components: Arias has been finding ways to make engines work better since he first started tinkering in his garage more than 70 years ago. He became serious about hot rodding at the end of WWII and remembers being involved in his first organized drag race in California in 1949. At the time, Arias was working at Wayne Manufacturing, where he learned a lot about engines, pistons, cylinder heads and more. In the ’50s, Arias was involved with the Rusetta Timing Association dry lake meets and The Screwdrivers Car Club, where he experimented with different engines and configurations while setting records and testing the limits of his share of vehicles and parts.

He started Arias Pistons in 1969 to manufacture forged pistons and components and kept refining engine configurations. In 1972, Arias introduced what was then considered a state-of-the-art Hemi-head conversion for Big Block Chevys known as the "Hemi-Chevy." His creations did not end there and included the 10L block and Hemi-head that dominated tractor pulls and drag boat races, an 8.3L power plant for Top Fuel and Alcohol drag racing, the Arias 4-cylinder for USAC Midget circuits, the Arias V6 Hemi, A/R Boss 429, Howard 12-Port GMC and more.

Arias was recognized as a Lifetime Achievement honoree in 2000 by the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion. He was also inducted into the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 2005.

Bill France Sr., NASCAR: France founded NASCAR—the most successful stock-car racing series in the world. Initial races were held on short dirt tracks and a combined beach and highway oval course in Daytona. Through his early career as a racer and fledgling promoter, France experienced the challenges of race promotion, from recruiting drivers and spreading the word to creating the tracks, hiring ticket-takers and generating a profit. 

France was convinced that a single, firmly governed sanctioning body was necessary for stock-car racing to succeed. He gathered a group of race promoters, drivers and mechanics for the first National Association for Stock Car Automobile Racing in 1947. The organization, which named France (aka Big Bill France) the president, became incorporated in 1948, and more than 14,000 fans attended the first event on the Daytona Beach road/beach course in February of that year.

France eventually gained the support of automobile industry executives to build the world's first and fastest super speedway in Daytona. In the 1959 Daytona 500, the concept of drafting was discovered and ushered in the aerodynamic era. Big Bill pioneered developments in safety, organization, infrastructure, scoring and purses. All of these developments enabled racing to reach new levels of professionalism and respect within the sporting industry.

Mark Heffington, Hypertech Inc.: Heffington began his career in the aftermarket industry as the chief cam designer for Crane Cams. In 1972, Heffington founded Cam Dynamics—at the time a leading manufacturer of high-performance and racing camshafts. He sold Cam Dynamics in the early ’80s. Soon after, he began consulting on camshaft design and engineering and became a consultant for United Technologies and General Motors.

With the concept of computer-controlled engines beginning to emerge, Heffington understood how computer-controlled tuning could significantly impact the performance industry. In 1985, he founded Hypertech Inc. and began to develop and manufacture onboard computer reprogramming devices. The company introduced the Power Chip in 1986 and, in 1994, Hypertech released its Power Programmer.

Now in its 27th year, Hypertech is still a leader of engine tuning products. Heffington is also a two-time winner of the Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice award for product innovation.

Bob Larivee Sr., Auto Art Promotions Inc.: Larivee competed in a Soap Box Derby in Detroit at the age of 11, which ignited his passion for automobiles. He joined the Motor City Automobile Club and the Michigan Hot Rod Association (MHRA) in the early 1950s. By 1961, Larivee had founded a small car show company name Promotions Inc. and created the International Car Show Association, which became the sanctioning body for car shows. Larivee and Promotions Inc. produced some of the most popular car shows and events of the '60s, including the World of Wheels series, and co-produced the Detroit Autorama with the MHRA.  

His efforts, such as the development of uniform judging systems and standard rules and categories for the popular car shows, helped to bring more prestige to the car show circuit. The shows became more meaningful for the winners and also provided them opportunities to achieve additional recognition in the mainstream automotive field. 

Larivee competed in drag races and circle-track events before retiring in 1977 to concentrate on promotional efforts. Most recently, Larivee has extended his organizational expertise to the promotion of automotive art. His most notable accomplishment in this arena has been the Automotive Fine Arts Society, which has produced art shows in Pebble Beach, California, and at the SEMA Show.

To learn more about the SEMA Hall of Fame program, visit www.sema.org/hof.

TEMPE, Ariz. – Rockford Fosgate, the industry leader in high-performance car audio systems, announced that its Punch Powered Loaded Subwoofer Enclosures are now shipping. The all new P300-10 10-inch and P300-12 12-inch, 300-Watt (RMS) models are the perfect all-in-one solutions that integrate the famed Rockford Fosgate sonic signature and power.

“If you need to quickly add bass to a system or want to alleviate the hassle of separate amplifiers and subwoofers, then the Punch P300-10 or P300-12 is the right one for the job,” said Jake Braaten, Rockford Director of Product development. “The P300 Series features either a Punch 10-inch or 12-inch subwoofer in a custom sealed enclosure and is powered by a mighty 300-Watt amplifier. The system is an all-in-one, all-inclusive solution when adding bass to a factory system or just to save space. So, you only need to run power, ground, and a signal from the source to get this baby moving.”

Additional Punch P300 Punch Powered Loaded Subwoofer Sealed Enclosure specs include: 

• “Closed-loop” design ensures optimum performance between woofer, amp, and enclosure
• Built-in 0 degree/180 degree phase switch
• Frequency response: 35Hz - 150Hz
• Separate low level and speaker level inputs
• Built-in adjustable bass boost EQ
• Adjustable 12db/Octave low pass crossover
• Detachable power/ground connector
• Intelligent auto turn on/off function
• Thermal and over voltage protection
• High-efficiency, low current design
• Remote bass level control included
• Proprietary high output woofer
• Constructed with 5/8-inch MDF
• Large AWG input terminals
• Covered with industrial heat activated vinyl
• Durable exterior that resists scrapes and bumps while in the trunk or cargo area
• 1 Year Standard Warranty
• Complies to CEA-2031 standards
• MSRP: P300-10 ($279.99); P300-12 ($299.99) 

Specifications and prices subject to change without notice.

For nearly 28 years, well-trained drivers have been hitting theasphalt for days upon days and mile after mile to compete in time trials on race tracks spread throughout the country.  To the Tire Rack One Lap of America participants, nothing is more enjoyable than eating grub from the gas stations and taking a holiday from showering—Livin’ Loud at its finest, if you ask KICKER, which jumped at the opportunity to sponsor this awesome event taking place next week.
 
“Knowing that music is an immense part of the open road, KICKER believes this event is the perfect method to reach other carenthusiasts like ourselves,” KICKER Marketing Director Kevin Campbell said.
 
With eight stops and over 5,000 miles of driving, competitors willendure fatigue, weather and traffic—all of which lead to bragging rights, money prizes and trophies!  Participants are forbidden to have a support crew and are only allowed to drive on a single set of tires, used on both the street and race tracks.  Scoring during the event is based on performance at the race tracks.
 
For a schedule of the seven-day event, check out the Tire Rack One Lap of America website.