SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (May 21, 2018): Former Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Director of Planning, Lucas Frank, has joined Brandmotion, the industry leader in aftermarket safety and convenience products. Frank will serve Brandmotion as Director of Product Development and Operations. As such he will be responsible for company innovation, product development and operations functions. Frank’s years of industry advancement have honed skills that will help Brandmotion continue its mission to improve the safety of vehicles on the road.    

Frank was recently promoted to the Director of Portfolio Planning position he left to be a part of Brandmotion’s fast-paced growth in revolutionizing the way the industry views safety, merging it with technology and convenience. At FCA he was responsible for overseeing the five year plan for all future FCA cars and trucks, and prior to that led the planning of the new 2019 RAM 1500 Truck, providing the roadmap for durability, technology, efficiency and convenience with features never before offered in a pickup. In an earlier position at FCA, Frank was Brand Manager and Mobile Marketing Lead for Jeep. In that role, he launched Jeep’s first-ever iPhone app.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join Brandmotion at such an exciting and pivotal time in the industry,” Frank said. “I worked with Jeff on several projects in the past and have always respected his unique and innovative approach to recognizing and solving customer needs. The high quality of products and services has given Brandmotion a leadership position in this space and I’m excited to be a part of the team to help achieve the future growth plan.”

Frank has led successful endeavors in every position of his career with a growth mindset that matches that of Brandmotion founder, Jeff Varick.

"Lucas is a tremendously innovative thinker, responsible for many innovative product features at FCA over his 20 year career, including a few that Brandmotion helped him launch,” Varick stated. “He was the force behind many noted industry accomplishments including two consecutive awards for Motor Trend Truck of the Year and the cars.com ‘Best in Show’ award from the 2018 NAIAS for the RAM 1500. He is a proven leader, successfully navigating the strong headwinds that can deter many large company innovators from persevering. We are extremely excited to have a leader and proven innovator of Lucas’ caliber helping drive Brandmotion’s continued growth of innovative products.”

May 21, 2018 -- With the exit of CPS Distributing from the 12-volt retail distribution channel to focus on the OEM marine channel, Memphis Audio has joined forces with three firms in the Midwest to continue providing the exceptional service that Memphis Audio has built its reputation on. The Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and southern Illinois markets will now be represented by Electronic Marketing Associates. Pioneer Music Company will be the distributor for the same area bringing their industry expertise and strong dealer relationships to promote and expand the Memphis Audio brand. MSS Marketing will be the manufacturers’ rep in the Dakotas and Minnesota. MidState Distributing will be the distributor, bringing with them a strategically placed warehouse in Fargo, ND to ensure dealers receive products in a timely and efficient manner. These strategic partnerships significantly expand Memphis Audio’s coverage in these crucial central markets.

“We are extremely pleased to partner with two powerhouse distributors in the central part of the country. Their 12-volt knowledge is unsurpassed, with each having excellent relationships with their dealers in their respective territories. Pioneer Music Company has been distributing products in the MINK for 6 generations, the fact that they have been doing it right for over 150 years speaks volumes. Mid State Distributing brings a breadth of knowledge and strong dealer relationships built through years of dedication to the 12-volt industry. We are very excited to welcome these talented partners into the Memphis Audio family to promote and grow our brand,” said Kerry Sedivec, western regional sales manager for Memphis Audio.

Memphis Audio would like to thank CPS for years of dedicated service to their 12 volt dealers and the Memphis Audio brand and wish them well on their future ventures. These changes in territory coverage are effective immediately, for more information or for contact information for your territory, please call Memphis Audio directly at 800-489-2300 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

VISTA, Calif. (May 21, 2018) – Directed is pleased to announce its entry-level ¼-mile remote systems for DS4™ platforms have begun shipping in the AstroStart® and Clifford® brands. These new value-priced entry-level RF solutions are designed to help authorized retailers expand their DS4 offerings and better serve pricesensitive consumers.

These new entry-level RF kits come in both 1-button and 4-button configurations. For AstroStart the 4-button model is AFRFD514 and the 1-button is AFRFD511. For Clifford the 4-button model is D9146X and the 1-button model is D9116X. All RF kits come with two remotes, a D2D control center, antenna cable, as well as installation and owner’s guides. The MSRP for these RF systems is $129.99. Directed’s new entry-level RF solutions include a new control center that offers a super bright theft-deterrent LED and valet button that connects to the DS4 or DS4+ via D2D2.0 ports.

The 1-button systems offers unique functionality with DS4 and can operate in two different modes depending upon customer preference. In one mode, the remote can be programmed to perform Start, Unlock (only during Remote Start), Stop, and Car Finder. The second mode enables the remote to perform Lock, Unlock (at any time), Start, and Stop. This way all customers get the experience they prefer. James Turner, SVP, Core Product Management at Directed noted, “Directed strives to provide our customers, both retailers and consumers, with complete solutions that fit a variety of needs. These new entry-level control options create an opening price point that allows DS4 and DS4+ to become the preferred go-to platform.”

Not a Directed Authorized Retailer? Please visit www.directed.com/contact/becomedealer/ or call (800) 876-0800 to become a Directed Authorized Retailer today!

Directed is a world leader in automotive electronics, the largest North American designer and marketer of consumer-branded vehicle security and remote start systems, and a pioneer in the connected car space. Its products connect more consumers to their vehicles than anyone else on the planet. Directed markets its broad portfolio (sold under Viper®, Clifford®, Python®, Autostart®, AstroStart® and other brands) through leading national retailers and specialty chains. For more information contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

May 18, 2018, EDMOND, Okla.— Petra Industries, the consumer electronic industry’s accessory authority, hosted their Spring Petra Partner Meetings on Tuesday, May 15 and Thursday, May 17, at their distribution center in Edmond, Okla.

Forty participating vendors engaged in extremely focused meetings with members of the Petra sales, executive and marketing teams. Attendees discussed specific opportunities for increased sales plus explored mutual objectives, desires and expectations. With Petra’s diverse and ever-expanding customer base, these meetings also allowed manufacturers to discover how their product lines fit into each of Petra’s customer segments.

“These direct-interaction meetings are critical in building strong partnerships with both new manufacturers as well as long-standing ones,” said Tate Morgan, Petra President. “Together we learn how to most effectively market their products to our various customers.”

Vendors in attendance included Acclaim Lighting, American Power Conversion, Audio-Technica, Belkin, BIC, Bosch, Bushnell, Case Logic, Curtis, DPI, Elite Brands, Elite Screens, Ethereal/Metra Home Theater Group, FIBARO, IC Intracom, Innovative Trends, Jasco, Kanex, KING, Masterbuilt, Maxell, Norazza, Novi, Olive & Dove, Panasonic, Press Play (Hello to Green), Preval, Pyle, Emerge Technologies Inc, Richpower, Sennheiser, Skech, SkyBell, Switchmate, Thrustmaster, Thule, Tripp Lite, Whistler, Wilson, XPOWER and zNitro.

In addition to the one-on-one meetings, Petra hosted an after-hours cocktail party where participants networked and continued discussions in a more informal setting. To learn more about Petra and their vendor partners visitwww.petra.com.

Representing more than 500 leading brands, Petra is the industry’s consumer technology authority. They connect tens of thousands of top name-brand products with tens of thousands of retail partners. Petra knows that retailers rely on accessories to increase margin. Accessories for mobile devices; connected home accessories; automotive accessories; audio/video accessories; appliance connection accessories—all the most sought-after add-ons for every category of consumer technology are stocked at Petra’s massive distribution center. Founded in 1985 with a focus on and passion for accessories, today, Petra serves every segment of retail with the hottest products. Petra is a member of CTA and CEDIA. For more information on Petra, visit www.petra.com or call 1-800-443-6975.

Google Also Working With Smartphone Makers to Bring Wireless Capability to 8.0 Devices

LONG BEACH, CALIF., May 17, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE)– In our press release dated May 9, 2018, we indicated that future smartphones would require Android 9.0 OS to be compatible with KENWOOD multimedia receivers that feature Wireless Android Auto™. Google has informed us that, in addition to 9.0 devices, the company is working with several smartphone manufacturers to bring wireless compatibility to devices with Android 8.0 OS. According to Google, this compatibility will be available on select non-Google smartphones soon.

You can read our original press release here.

All KENWOOD multimedia receivers that support wireless Android Auto offer full compatibility and smartphone charging through a wired connection. For detailed information on the specific features of each receiver, please view their product pages at kenwood.com/usa/car.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.

New Kit Includes Everything Needed for Aftermarket Camera Installation and Integration

Holly Hill, Fla. - May 2018 – iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems by Metra Electronics® has introduced a complete backup camera solution for 2007 and up* Jeep Wrangler models with the in-dash display. The TE-JEEP-BU-1 has everything required for installation and integration into the factory radio in one convenient kit.

Since the Jeep Wrangler spare tire presents a challenge for mounting an aftermarket backup camera, the kit includes a spare tire bracket designed with an adjustable neck that positions the camera between the tire spokes. Also included in the kit is iBeam’s Flush Mount Backup Camera with metal housing, featuring a ¼-inch CMOS lens, 110 degree viewing angle and 0.6 lux night vision. This camera is small, unobtrusive and has high quality IP67 rated housing to withstand the elements.

The kit also includes a vehicle-specific wiring harness and the Axxess AX-ADDCAM camera switching interface for integration into the factory display. This technology uses the CANBUS to detect when the reverse gear has been engaged and then activates the backup camera to show the camera feed with parking guidelines. The solution is scalable, as the interface will provide up to three additional camera inputs to the factory radio. The TE-JEEP-BU-1 kit by iBeam is available now from Metra Electronics. *Visit MetraOnline.com for up-to-date vehicle specific applications.

At Metra, 12-volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world. We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources into developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make more dash kits for the most vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice®” for over 70 years. Our brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic® and AmmoTenna®.  Metra’s expertise in connectivity solutions is also applied to their division of premium home theater and surveillance products, Metra Home Theater Group®.

For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Electronics online at MetraOnline.com or call 800.221-0932. For Metra Home Theater Group ordering information and pricing, visit MetraHomeTheater.com or call 866.839.9187.

May 10, 2018, City of Industry, Calif. -- Logic Soundlab is proud to introduce its new line of amplifiers. The all new QXP Series of amplifiers from Logic Soundlab, will set a new standard for Sound Quality and Performance at an affordable price point. With a Full feature set and taking advantage of our Class A/B technology and improved Class D Monoblock features, the new QXP series amps will continue to give you the reliability and performance you have come to know so well from Logic Soundlab.

The New QXP Series consists of 7 models and is now shipping.

• QXP160.2: 500-Watt 2 Channel MOSFET Amplifier 85x2 @ 4 OHM 130x2 @ 2 OHM
• QXP240.2: 720-Watt 2 Channel MOSFET Amplifier 120x2 @ 4 OHM 180x2 @ 2 OHM
• QXP320.4: 960-Watt 4 Channel MOSFET Amplifier 80x4 @ 4 OHM 120x4 @ 2 OHM
• QXP490.5: 1200-Watt 5 Channel MOSFET Amplifier 60x4 + 180x1 @ 4 OHM 90x4 @ +260x1 @ 2 OHM
• QXP350.1: 1000-Watt MONO Class D Amplifier 350x1 @ 1 OHM RMS, 1000x1 Peak Power
• QXP600.1: 1600-Watt MONO Class D Amplifier 600x1 @ 1 OHM RMS, 1800x1 Peak Power
• QXP1200.1: 3600-Watt MONO Class D Amplifier 1200x1 @ 1 OHM RMS, 3600x1 Peak Power

If you are looking for an amplifier line that can crank out quality sound at an unmatched value with limited distribution, Logic Soundlab QXP Series amplifiers are the way to go.

For more information contact Rick Andersen (626) 465-3383 X 107, Enrique Avalos (626) 564-3383 X102 or visit www.logicsoundlab.com

May 17, 2018 -- Effective immediately, retailers will be able to purchase M3 Lite showcases from AVIDWORX through the online store, www.avidworx.com/shop.

There are seven showcases available at launch, including five branded options and AVIDWORX’s most popular demos: Factory Upgrade and Better Sound. More branded and category showcases will follow in the coming weeks and months.

“The ability to sell showcases online gives us an opportunity to affordably help retailers draw attention to their top brands, as well as educate customers on the benefits of their products and services,” said Marcel Newell, president of AVIDWORX.

“We still recommend that retailers take a whole store approach to upgrading their retail experience, but not every store is able to make that investment or has the available wall space. This is the next best thing.”

M3 Lite showcases are more affordable than M3 Imageworx options and can be shipped and installed more easily. They can also be customized with graphics and accents to match a store’s branding.

To see what’s currently available, visit www.avidworx.com/shop. Delivery is available throughout Canada and the U.S.

Cardoza and Company, Pacific Coast Marketing to build brand awareness in western states

DAVIE, FLA., May 16, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE)–SounDigital USA, producer of competition-heritage power amplifiers for everyday drivers, has added two veteran rep firms in the western United States. Cardoza and Company, along with Pacific Coast Marketing, will work to service authorized retailers and expand the sales footprint of the iconic amplifier manufacturer.

Cardoza and Company, run by principal Mark Cardoza and featuring sales representatives Scott Schmidt and Robert Navarro, is representing the brand in Northern California and northern Nevada. Retailers in the territory can call (925) 556-1880 for more information.

Pacific Coast Marketing covers the remainder of California and Nevada, in addition to Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, and El Paso, Texas. Retailers can contact principal Gary Sheagley and team at (800) 662-0238.

Both firms are showing SounDigital’s new Power line, comprised of five Class D monoblock amplifiers rated from 1,000 watts at four ohms in the 3300.1D Power, to 35,000 watts at one ohm on the competition-specific 35000.1D Power. Also new are the brand’s Marine Line with three small-footprint designs, each bridgeable from two to four channels.

“For what we want to accomplish, we picked the right team members,” said Diogo Ianaconi, CEO of SounDigital USA. “Mark and Gary have been in the industry a long time and have developed strong, mutually respectful relationships with retailers, installers and the brands their firms represent. We welcome them to our team and are pleased to be among the brands of their respective teams as well.”

SounDigital will exhibit at KnowledgeFest August 17-19 at the Dallas Convention Center. For more information or to become an authorized SounDigital retailer, contact your local SounDigital representative or call (786) 600-1056. You can also email SounDigital atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Douglasville, Georgia – May 16th, 2018 – Omega Research & Development Technologies, Inc. is now shipping the OL-HRN-RS-CH7 & OL-HRN-RS-HA3 vehicle specific T-harness that are Plug & Play with any Excalibur 70 series remote start using an OmegaLink bypass. This launch will expand the vehicle application library to include these high volume platforms. Omega also recently released a new v1.4 firmware for their Excalibur remote start line. Since all Starters are flashable, your inventory is always protected.

The OmegaLink plug-in T-harnesses are compatible with all Excalibur 70 series remote start systems combined with an OL-BLADE-AL64 or OL-MDB-ALL (or AL-CA) interface module. Installers can now take advantage of the timesaving features of plug-in systems without sacrificing features. For example, the AL-1870-3DB 2-way remote start/alarm can be installed in 2011-17 Dodge Caravans in under 30 minutes with only one hardwire connection to the vehicle for flashing lights. Just connect siren and shock sensor to complete the system. In record time, the vehicle would be equipped with full keyless entry, sliding door control, rear hatch control, remote start, low and high temp auto start, low volt auto start, run timer with on demand run-time extender, low vehicle battery alert, full security, long range remote, and every other feature a 70 Series has to offer.

The v1.4 firmware is compatible with all Excalibur 70 Series remote start systems. It brings a bundle of enhancements and feature upgrades for the 2018 remote start season. Excalibur v1.4 firmware can be downloaded and installed on any earlier version 70-Series Excalibur unit using our xOS technology at www.omegaweblink.com. Since all Excalibur Remote Start units are flashable, you can always keep your inventory up to date, and eliminate obsolescence.

Please visit wiresheet.com for T-Harness install guides and application lookup.

For information on becoming an Omega Dealer in the US, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For more information on Omega’s car security, keyless entry and remote start product lines, please visit www.CarAlarm.com, www.OmegaWeblink.com and www.OmegaLinkr.com. Don’t forget to follow us at http://facebook.com/OmegaRD and @omegaresearch on instagram!

Omega Research & Development Technologies has been an innovative leader in the vehicle security industry for over 40 years. Since its founding in 1971, Omega's product line has diversified to include remote start modules and other vehicle accessory products. Omega's most recent product offerings include the exciting new technologies of telematics, wireless and databus integration.

Omega's mission, as it was over four decades ago, is to provide reliable, leading-edge security and automotive accessory products at a competitive price.

Four New Firms and Expanded Territories Enhance Retailer Service and Support

CAMARILLO, CALIF., May 15, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE) –Orca Design and Manufacturing announced it has brought on several new sales representative firms through the first quarter. The additions affect 19 states throughout the United States and significantly increase the number of sales professionals available to service Orca retailers in those areas.

Out west, Reil and Associates, run by partners Kevin and Scott Reil, covers retailers in Montana, Eastern Idaho, Wyoming, Utah and Colorado. Paragon Sales and Marketing has expanded its territory from Southern California to encompass Arizona and New Mexico.

In the east, North Carolina's Tech Marketing takes care of retail outlets throughout South Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia in addition to its home state. High Point Sales represents Orca brands in Indiana, West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky and western Pennsylvania. And Trent Partners, run by founder Stephen Trentacoste and President Frank Lombardo, manage Orca brands in metro New York.

"Our goal over the first quarter was to provide a higher level of service to our retailers," said Nalaka Adikari, sales director for Orca. "As a result of these additions, we've increased our on-the-street sales representation from 38 individuals to more than 60. Feedback we've gotten from the field tells us we made the right decisions with the rep firms we chose as partners."

The four new firms join an award-winning group. Several members were recognized by Orca at the company's annual awards dinner during the Consumer Electronics Show. Midwest Sales Group, run by Principal Steve Fahlmark, received Most Improved Territory honors for its performance in 2017. Opus Marketing Group, covering the Mid-Atlantic states, took home the Rep Firm of the Year trophy for the Illusion Audio brand.

Two rep firms doubled up on awards. Texas' Marketing Pros received honors as Rep Firm of the Year for the Gladen Mosconi brand, as well as the Orca Rep of the Year award for best overall performance. And Paragon Sales and Marketing was awarded Rep Firm of the Year for the Focal brand, plus the second annual Bill McKinley award, recognizing the rep firm that was most active and productive in supporting the company’s brands throughout CES.

"We are extremely proud of, and grateful for, the partnerships we have with our rep firms," Adikari added. So far, 2018 has presented its challenges and we continue to meet them with high-performance products and elite sales representation.”

Based in Southern California for more than 30 years, Orca is a multi-faceted supplier of premium audio brands and components. Orca is the sole U.S. importer and distributor for Focal mobile audio and Gladen-Mosconi. With in-house design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities, Orca also produces quality products including Blackhole damping materials, Raven pure ribbon tweeters for pro audio applications, and Illusion Audio reference car speakers and subwoofers. For more information, visit our website at orcadesign.com.

Innovations Aim to Transform the Listening Experience for Consumers

Solon, Ohio – May 15, 2018 – Manufacturer American Bass, USA, headquartered in Solon, Ohio, has announced the launch of two new products to expand its extensive line of high-end car audio equipment and accessories. The new products add breadth to the current offerings in their speaker division.

“We’re pleased to bring new products to market that will help to enhance the listening experience for all those who rely on American Bass for their car audio equipment,” said Gurwin Ahuja, Vice President. “These additions offer our customers the latest innovations in sound quality, efficiency and product longevity.”

“For more than two decades, we’ve dedicated our business to delivering the highest quality car audio equipment in the industry,” said Bob Ahuja, Chief Executive Officer. “We’re proud to continue this tradition with the launch of these new products, which give our current and potential customers more diverse and lower-cost options for creating the very best sound in car audio.”

The new offerings include two additions to the American Bass speaker line, Godfather Midrange Speakers and Symphony Full Range Speakers. Developed to deliver an exceptional listening experience, Godfather Midrange Speakers promise loud and clear sound. Symphony Full Range speakers are designed for ultimate efficiency, requiring minimal power to produce excellent sound and offering the flexibility of being powered by many factory radios.

RESEDA, Ca. (May 14, 2018) – Crux Interfacing Solutions has launched the brand new SWR-100 Universal Steering Wheel Control Retention Interface.

CRUX Interfacing’s Rich DeSclafani stated, “The new SWR-100 uses the same PRE-PROGRAMMED technology that our “all in one” Radio Replacement/Steering Wheel Control Retention interfaces use to ensure zero programming is required. This makes the SWR-100 extremely fast and easy to install as only dip switches need to be set.”

VEHICLE SPECIFIC WIRING AND SWR-100 CONFIGURATION LINK - SWR-100 WIRING INFORMATION

FEATURES:

• Retains Steering Wheel Controls
• PRE-PROGRAMMED*
• Provides +12 Volt Accessory Output
• Auto Detects CAN, LAN and iBus Protocol
• Retains VR Command (Voice Recognition) function on select OEM steering wheels
• Use SWC to activate CarPlay and Android Auto compatible devices
• Works with NEW Sony Radios
• Manufactured in Germany

*DOES NOT NEED TO BE FLASHED ON A PC or DOES NOT NEED TO BE CONFIGURED IN THE VEHICLE

Nominations will open for select retail performance and vendor awards

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS., May 9, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE) – Mobile Electronics® magazine, the industry's premier trade publication, announced it will kick off the first phase of the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards on May 16. At that time, the publication will begin accepting nominations for several retail performance awards, as well as awards for vendors, rep firms, distributors and expeditors. Nominations for Retailer of the Year, Installer of the Year, Salesperson of the Year and Trusted tech will begin later.

The split nomination process is a change from last year, in which all awards began nominations simultaneously. The new format will attract a higher number of participants and enable candidates to focus on creating quality submissions.

"It's no secret that our Retailer of the Year and Installer of the Year awards garner the most attention during the awards process," said Solomon Daniels, editor-in-chief of Mobile Electronics and awards coordinator. "But we know there are quality stores, companies and individuals in other categories who perform at a high level and will make excellent examples for other industry professionals to follow. We want to give these categories a spotlight of their own so that the candidates, and ultimately the winners, get the recognition they deserve."

Also new this year is a realignment of the Top Vendor awards. As product categories shift toward after-the-head-unit solutions, recreational applications and a blending of vehicle sensing and notification technology, the categories have adjusted to reflect the changes.

Held annually, the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards recognize the best of the industry. Candidate companies and individuals submit video nominations and are narrowed to a list of finalists after a selection and/or voting process. In certain award categories, finalists submit materials that are then judged by a select panel to determine a winner. In other categories, final voting tallies determine the winner. All winners are announced at a special awards ceremony, held the last day of the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) KnowledgeFest tradeshow and conference in Dallas. This year's awards ceremony will take place August 19 at the Dallas Convention Center.

On May 16, Mobile Electronics will open nominations for the following award categories:

Retail Performance Awards

• Most Improved Location or Chain
• Best Online Presence
• Best Customer Retention Program
• Best Customer Experience
• Best Store Culture (New for 2018)
• Rookie of the Year

Vendor Awards

• Distributor of the Year
• Expeditor of the Year
• Representative of the Year
• Rep Firm of the Year
• Top Vendor - Safety, Security and Driver Assistance
• Top Vendor - Autosound and Processing
• Top Vendor - Infotainment and Multimedia
• Top Vendor - Powersports and Marine
• Top Vendor - Accessories and Materials

For each award, candidates must submit a video based on the specifications listed under each award category at meindustryawards.com. All video submissions are due May 28. Visit meindustryawards.com to view submission requirements and awards updates throughout the process, and sign up to the Hotwire newsletter at me-mag.com.

Mobile Electronics strives to grow the mobile electronics industry by supporting its retailers, salespeople, technicians and manufacturers with integrated services built around the group’s 1,100-plus-member industry association, the Mobile Electronics Association™, its Mobile Electronics® magazine, KnowledgeFest® tradeshows, Partnership Program, point-of-sale system and data products. Through these offerings, Mobile Electronics delivers education, networking avenues, and business and marketing resources, and promotes partnership between retailers and manufacturers to increase sales and profits. For more information, contact Mobile Electronics at 85 Flagship Dr., Suite F, North Andover, MA, 01845, telephone: 800-949-6372, or visit mobile-electronics.com.

Twenty-Five-Year Finance Veteran Brings Business Leadership and Insight to Directed

VISTA, Calif. (May 14, 2018) Directed, a leader in the connected car and automotive electronics aftermarket space, is pleased to announce that Naresh Idnani has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer. He will oversee all aspects of Directed’s finance and human resources functions.

“Naresh brings an impressive record of accomplishment in financial and business management to Directed,” said Bob Struble, Directed CEO. “His broad skill set and diverse experience base make Naresh a perfect fit for our business. I’m thrilled to welcome Naresh to our executive team and confident he will help Directed build on our strong performance and industry leading position.”

Prior to joining Directed, Mr. Idnani served as CFO of Innovative Hearth Products, a leading manufacturer of indoor and outdoor fireplaces based in Orange County, Calif. Previously Mr. Idnani held CFO and senior financial management roles at large and midsize companies including Neutrogena, Sun Microsystems and Johnson and Johnson. Mr. Idnani earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and his MBA from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley.

“I can’t imagine a more exciting time to join Directed,” Mr. Idnani added. “Directed is leading the innovation in the aftermarket connected car space. Working with Bob and his executive team to build upon the great Directed legacy was an opportunity I could not pass up.”

Mr. Idnani will be based out of Directed’s Vista, Calif. office and report directly to CEO Bob Struble.

Not a Directed Dealer? Please visit www.directed.com/contact/becomedealer/ or call 1-800-876-0800 to become a Directed Dealer today!

Directed is a world leader in automotive electronics, the largest North American designer and marketer of consumer-branded vehicle security and remote start systems, and a pioneer in the connected car space. Its products connect more consumers to their vehicles than anyone else on the planet. Directed markets its broad portfolio (sold under Viper®, Clifford®, Python®, Autostart®, AstroStart® and other brands) through leading national retailers and specialty chains. For more information contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The MIR-APL Features a Digital Color LCD, Adaptive Parking Lines, Dual Video Inputs, and a Reverse Trigger Wire

TEMPE, Ariz., – May 14, 2018 – CrimeStopper (www.crimestopper.com), an industry leader in 12-volt aftermarket electronics specializing in vehicle security, remote start systems, and safety products, is proud to announce the launch of its new universal 4.3-inch rear view mirror/monitor. Utilizing a digital color LCD screen, the MIR-APL is now shipping with an MSRP of $299.95.

“The MIR-APL features adaptive parking lines that move when the vehicle turns,” said Alvin Klement, national sales manager for CrimeStopper. “These indicators reside inside the mirror, so camera compatibility is much broader. The mirror also features dual video inputs and a reverse trigger wire used to turn-on the monitor when the vehicle is put into reverse gear.”

The vehicle-specific mirror bracket kit MIR-BRKT437 is sold separately.

“CrimeStopper prides itself on solutions for installers by installers,” Klement added. “As CrimeStopper continues to grow and lead the marketplace with new and innovative safety and security products, we are proud to announce valuable additions to our rear view and parking assist lines. These new models, including the MIR-APL, not only maximize value and provide best-in-class performance, but provide an additional assortment of options in this category for dealers and expeditors in the business today.”

For more information, visit www.crimestopper.com.

Setting the standard for excellence in the audio industry, the Rockford Corporation markets and distributes high-performance audio systems for the mobile, motorsport, and marine audio aftermarket and OEM market.  Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., Rockford Corporation is a publicly traded company and manufactures or distributes its products under multiple brands: Rockford Fosgate(R), CrimeStopper, and Renegade. For more information, please visit: www.rockfordfosgate.com, www.crimestopper.com, and www.renegadecaraudio.com.

Holly Hill, FL - May 2018 – Axxess® by Metra Electronics® has reintroduced improved technology for thirteen vehicle-specific radio replacement interfaces in their AX-Series product line, all of which are now shipping. The AX-Series features proprietary, built-in steering wheel control technology with improved features. The patented Axxess auto-detect technology provides an easy to install solution with one interface that will do it all. A new reset button improves the initialization process, located between the two Micro-Fit™ connectors. This placement prevents the button from accidentally being pressed, but also provides a much easier way for installers to reset the interface, when needed.

The AX-Series provides accessory power for 12-volt, 10-amp, retains R.A.P. (Retained Accessory Power) and retains audio controls on the steering wheel. Depending on the vehicle, SYNC or OnStar may also be retained. The interface can be installed in both amplified and non-amplified models, and provides NAV outputs for parking brake, reverse and speed sense. The interface is updatable by Micro “B” USB. All harnessing is cloth taped for a clean installation. Additional interface features will vary by vehicle application, available for Chrysler, Ford, GM, Hyundai/Kia, Mazda and Toyota/Lexus models for select years.

AX-Series Radio Replacement Interfaces for Chrysler

Axxess has two solutions for Chrysler, both which provide high level speaker input. The AX-CH013-SWC is for Chrysler models from 2004 and up*. The AX-CH5-SWC is for Chrysler models from 2013 and up*. This specific interface also retains the factory backup camera if it is through the factory radio, and the factory 3.5mm auxiliary input (AUX-IN) jack.

AX-Series Radio Replacement Interfaces for Ford

Two interfaces for Ford vehicles will be at CES. Both provide high level speaker input. The AX-FD1-SWC is for Ford models from 2007 and up*, and can be used in non-amplified, amplified, and Sony/THX amplified systems. The AX-FD2-SWC is for Ford models from 2011 and up*.

AX-Series Radio Replacement Interfaces for GM

Axxess will reintroduce four solutions for GM vehicles that retain chimes, OnStar and OEM Bluetooth®. All four interfaces support adjustable volume for OnStar in addition to providing NAV outputs for parking brake, reverse, mute and speed sense. Additional features and specifications vary between the interfaces:

AX-GMCL2-SWC is for GM vehicles from 2000 to 2013

AX-GMLAN11-SWC is for GM vehicles from 2006 to 2012

AX-GMLAN29-SWC is for GM vehicles from 2006 and up*

AX-GMLAN44-SWC is for GM vehicles from 2011 and up*

Visit AxxessInterfaces.com or reference the Axxess New Product Guide to see additional information for each part.

AX-Series Radio Replacement Interfaces for Hyundai/Kia

Two new AX-Series interfaces for Hyundai/Kia vehicles will be available from Axxess, both which work with non-amplified systems, or amplified systems when used with the AX-HYKIA-SPDIF. The AX-HYKIA1-SWC is for Hyundai/Kia 2012 and up* models and the AX-HYKIA2-SWC is for 2013 and up* models.

AX-Series Radio Replacement Interface for Mazda

The AX-MAZ1-SWC is for Mazda vehicles from 2007 to 2015. It retains the balance and fade controls and also retains the ability to change the clock with a service harness. It can be used with either amplified or non-amplified systems.

AX-Series Radio Replacement Interface for Toyota/Lexus

The AX-TYAMP1-SWC is designed for amplified systems for Toyota and Lexus models from 2002 to 2015. The AX-TYAMP2-SWC is designed for JBL amplified systems for Toyota and Lexus vehicles from 2012 and up*. Both interfaces retain balance control.

*Visit AxxessInterfaces.com to up-to-date, vehicle specific applications and additional instructions.

At Metra, 12-volt installation and integration is our passion. We strive to continuously offer the highest quality products to meet the fluctuating technological challenges of the automotive world. We actively listen to our customers’ requests and invest resources into developing the highest quality dash kit and harness solutions. We make more dash kits for the most vehicle applications than anyone else in the world. That’s why we’ve been known as “The Installer’s Choice®” for over 70 years. Our brands include: Axxess®, T-Spec®, The Install Bay®, Heise LED Lighting Systems®, iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems®, Shuriken High Performance Batteries®, Raptor®, Ballistic® and AmmoTenna®.  Metra’s expertise in connectivity solutions is also applied to their division of premium home theater and surveillance products, Metra Home Theater Group®.

For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Electronics online at MetraOnline.com or call 800.221-0932. For Metra Home Theater Group ordering information and pricing, visit MetraHomeTheater.com or call 866.839.9187.

Oklahoma City, OK, May 11, 2018 -- DD Audio held its second annual DD Invitational on May 5th, 2018, dubbing it Cinco DD Mayo. Attendees were welcomed to DD Audio’s Oklahoma-based factory and warehouse, where fine weather permitted a fun outdoor celebration. Dealers, partners, employees and their families enjoyed catered tacos, local brew, games, raffles, product training, warehouse sale and after party.

The event was very well attended, with dealers traveling from as far away as Georgia to join in on the festivities.

Product training provided by DD’s Aaron Trimble included a detailed first look at the recently revised Redline Series along with several other exciting new products slated for release later this summer. Kevin Doyle, the master of ceremony, presided over the games which featured a frozen t-shirt contest, subwoofer toss, and subwoofer mounting relay race with prizes going to the winners of each game. DD Audio also held a Propper Droppers style SPL competition which pinned daily drivers against professionally crafted demo vehicles.

When asked about the DD Invitational, Kevin Doyle said, “This event is a great chance to show appreciation to all of the people who allow DD Audio to continue growing as a company. It’s really fun to see the dealers interacting with the people who build the products they love.”

May 10th, 2018 - VAIS Technology has released a new hardware platform (Gen 2) for their popular satellite radio adapters specifically designed for all vehicles including Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GM, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota. This allows select vehicles to add the SiriusXM® SXV300v1 satellite radio tuner to their existing factory stereo, without compromising any functionality.

“Since 2003, VAIS Technology has been developing satellite radio adapters for vehicles that aren’t equipped from the factory with SiriusXM® tuners,” said Dennis Hopper, Executive Vice President. “While satellite radio is more popular than ever, many vehicles don’t offer an easy way to listen to it. Our company develops simple, easy to install adapters that add satellite radio but preserve factory functionality.”

The latest (Gen 2) platform improves on several key areas:

• Better and faster processor
• Behind the radio connection for all Toyota models including the new 2018 Toyota Camry
• Upgrade the existing factory USB port to fast charging, on all behind the radio applications.
• Adding optional USB fast charging port on all models.
• Locking connectors for better automotive quality.

“We design our satellite radio adapters to operate very similar to the factory satellite radio systems,” Hopper explained. “While it takes more work on our part, our customers really appreciate the fact that they can now control their SiriusXM® using factory radio and steering wheel controls. That’s what really separates VAIS products from all others in the industry”.

To learn more about the new line of GSR’s from VAIS Technology, contact them at 720-733-2348 or visit http://www.vaistech.com.

May 10, 2018 -- Cedar Electronics is pleased to announce the addition of Bryan Piper as the ESCORT Radar, Technical Support Specialist. Bryan is a mobile electronics industry veteran with over 30 years of experience as a technician, specialty retailer, trainer and consultant. He has been named a Top 100/50 installer, Top 12 Installer multiple times and won the Mobile Electronics Trusted Tech award in 2015.  Bryan will be based in Corpus Christi, Texas and handling support for ESCORT’s Custom Install and Connected Car products.