China

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has initiated an investigation into the effects of Chinese intellectual property rights (IPR) infringement on U.S. jobs and the economy, along with China's so-called “indigenous innovation policies.” The latter refers to a Chinese initiative, which encourages domestic companies to develop their own technology and brands instead of simply manufacturing foreign products.

SEMA members can sign up to meet with up to a dozen, pre-vetted Chinese distributors at the inaugural SEMA CIAPE China Business Development Conference taking place September 23–26 in Beijing, China. Register online by July 1 in order to receive priority space selection.

The market for performance dynamometers in China is modest at the moment, reflecting the newness of the country’s performance car culture. But China is a market to watch, said companies making the high-tech tuning machines. One thing that should boost demand for dynos in China is the fast growth in luxury car sales. Luxury car buyers want, and can afford, performance-boosting products for their car. Tuner shops will need dynos to guarantee top performance. Dyno manufacturers are betting on the market growing and are actively signing up distributors to supply these new potential customers.

Nearly two-dozen distributors and buyers have contacted SEMA to introduce themselves and the products they hope to source at the SEMA China International Auto Parts Expo (CIAPE) business development conference, held in Beijing, China, September 23–26, 2010. Performance and off-road products figure prominently in the type of products Chinese wholesalers and retailers want to source from U.S. companies.

China doesn’t have old money. Indeed, some of the wealthiest people in China are entrepreneurs under 40 years old. They buy expensive cars, and want to personalize those cars. They are a prime market for products that enhance performance, comfort or appearance.