Thu, 03/21/2024 - 13:06

Ridgeline

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Honda Motors, the SEMA Garage has announced a measuring session for the all-new '24 Honda Ridgeline.

SEMA members will have the opportunity to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have an up-close experience before the vehicle's public release. Take advantage of this exclusive event, scheduled for March 26-27, at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

'24 Honda Ridgeline Measuring Session
March 26-27, 2024
SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, CA
1577 Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
View on Google Maps.
Click here to RSVP!

Spots are limited for this exclusive event; sign up today! For more information, visit the RSVP link or contact measuringsessions@sema.org.

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 12:47

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office 

After a several-month delay, Maine's Board of Environmental Protection (BEP) voted against adopting a SEMA-opposed proposal requiring that 82% of new vehicles sold in the state be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2032. A vote had been scheduled for December 2023 but was postponed due to a severe winter storm.

Maine Rejects ICE Ban

The Maine Board of Environmental Protection has voted against the proposal to align the state with California's latest clean-car rules. 

Drafted in response to a citizen petition from an environmental group, the rule aimed to tighten emissions standards for new passenger cars, light-duty trucks and medium-duty vehicles sold in Maine, aligning the state with California's latest clean-car rules, which the state has historically followed.

While the BEP debated adopting California's clean-car rules, lawmakers concurrently held a hearing on a bill (L.D. 2261) that would reclassify the proposal as a "major" regulation, providing the legislature with final approval before it could become law.

SEMA believes that Mainers, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. And, in the case of Maine, it rebukes the push by 150 citizens who attempted to determine policy for the rest of the state. The automotive industry is embracing new technology to make cars cleaner and more efficient, including hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, alternative fuels and improvements to the internal combustion engine. The government should allow the market to continue to innovate all forms of technology that significantly reduce vehicle emissions.

For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 12:46

SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit

By SEMA News Editors

Registration is open for this year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, July 24-25, Las Vegas, West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The valuable two-day event--free of cost--is organized by SEMA Show management for returning and new exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas.

2024 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit
(Complimentary for all current exhibitors.)
July 24-25, 2024
West Hall Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada

Register here.

The road to the SEMA Show begins with the Exhibitor Summit, the education-packed program featuring everything a company needs--whether as a first-timer or a longtime Show veteran--to deliver the best ROI from their SEMA Show experience. 

This year's Summit, now in the Las Vegas Convention Center's West Hall, will feature new-for-2024 business-boosting information straight from the people responsible for the industry-topping automotive specialty-equipment trade show.

"Every year, the Summit provides something new for exhibitors. Our team combs through research and data from prior years to deliver the practical and proven advice, like strategies to attract people to your booth while saving money," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "All you need to do is register and show up to Vegas, and we'll take care of the rest. Spaces tend to fill up quickly, so secure your spot today!"

The SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit is the best way to learn how to:

  • Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
  • Use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth.
  • Save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses.
  • Work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI.
  • Learn to plan appropriately and budget expenses.
  • Explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods.

Registration is available online for up to two (2) company representatives who want to take advantage of this complimentary program. SEMA will provide housing and several meals during the event. Note: You are only officially registered once you receive a confirmation email from the SEMA Show staff.

Register for the 2024 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit here. For more information, visit semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.


Exhibitors: there is still time to get involved in the booth space priority selection process; just submit your ESRA application by Friday, March 29. The SEMA Show team will begin the booth plotting process from April 29 through May 15 (more exhibitor resources here).

Attendee and media registration opens on Monday, April 29. And, hotel reservations for the 2024 SEMA Show are open online here. 

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show.

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 11:17

By SEMA News Sources

The third-generation Audi Q3, expected to debut later this year or in early 2025, was recently spotted by SEMA News sources.

Caught testing in the Arctic, the prototype appears to maintain similar proportions to the current model and rides on the MQB Evo base, an updated version of the MQB platform shared with the Volkswagen Group.

Audi Q3 Prototype

The new Q3's design is unique, featuring split headlights with thin daytime running lights similar to the upcoming Q6 E-Tron electric compact crossover. The grille mesh is also a fresh design for Audi, and the rear showcases a new light strip.

While the prototype relies on an ICE powertrain, other models are expected to be plug-in hybrids, with a charging port on the driver's side front fender. Audi may offer a mild-hybrid powertrain but hasn't provided detailed plans yet, sources said.

An RS Q3 with a 2.5-L turbocharged engine is also expected, likely as a final showcase for the engine. Audi announced in 2021 that it will stop launching cars with internal combustion engines beyond 2026.

A more coupe-like Q3 Sportback is likely in the works. In European markets, the new Q3 will spawn related models from fellow Volkswagen Group brands like Cupra, Skoda and Volkswagen, insiders said.

 

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 10:59

SBN Male Ally Webinar

By Ashley Reyes

An important part of being an ally to women is engaging new people who don't fully understand or believe in the male-ally mindset. Knowing how to approach, engage and convert non-believers into allies is critical for both men and women to grow the conversation so that positive change can take effect. 

Men and women in the automotive aftermarket industry are invited to attend the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)'s next webinar in their Male-Ally Webinar Series "How to Keep the Conversation Growing and Build Awareness" on April 2 at 1:00 p.m. PDT. Attendees will discover ideas and ways to engage with people who have not heard of, or understand or support, the male-ally movement.

Register now, and learn:

  • A review of what a male ally to women is and successful practices to be one.
  • How to grow the conversation surrounding male allyship.
  • How to recognize when it is time to engage.
  • How the panelists have been successful in educating non-believers.
  • What to do if there is push-back.

This session will be moderated by Rachel Speir (RS Marqueting), and feature speakers Chris Gauss (The Warn Group), Steve Gilmore (Ford Motor Company) and Sara Morosan (LGE-CTS Motorsports). Don't miss your chance to tap into their expertise and discover practices that you can use and that have worked for them in the past. Register today!

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 09:22

Women in Automotive

By Ashley Reyes

The organizers behind the 2023 SEMA Show Education program have released seminar recordings from its SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium. Access the videos here.

Designed to empower and inspire women to accelerate their careers, the 15- to 20-minute presentations offer valuable insights that address common challenges faced by women in the automotive industry. Viewers will listen to successful women executives and thought leaders sharing essential skills, valuable advice and strategies for professional growth.

Seminar recordings out now include:  

  • Power Networking Luncheon & Fireside Chat 
    • Featuring Amanda Busick (FOX Sports), Carolyn Jackson (Barrett-Jackson Auction Company)
  • Being a Woman-Owned Certified Enterprise
    • Featuring Melanie White (Hellwig Products)
  • Self Branding: The Action Behind Building Your Personal Brand 
    • Featuring Jackie Lutz (Sensata Technologies)
  • The Power of Mentorship, Sponsorship and Allyship as a Strategy for Success 
    • Featuring Deanna Singh (Uplifting Impact)
  • Walk the Jump: Four Steps to Becoming the Authority in Your Industry
    • Featuring Shaundra Dineen (Rubyz Global Coaching and Consulting LLC)
  • Driving the Future of Automotive: C-Suite Insights Panel 
    • Featuring Cheryl Thompson (CADIA), Kim Less (Nissan North America), Matilda Johnson (City Classic Cars), Axel Cooley (Metallon, LLC), Submi Gosh (Stream Companies), Jayme Blasiman (Femcanic Garage/Women’s Motor Fest)

The SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium was part of a new SEMA initiative to create a robust career and professional development program for aftermarket professionals. The seminar recordings offer immediate knowledge and takeaways, highlighting new, fresh perspectives from top female leaders in the automotive community.  

Watch recordings from the SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium now, and stay tuned for additional seminar highlights from the 2023 SEMA Show as they are released throughout the coming weeks at semashow.com/education-videos.

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 08:31

By SEMA News Editors

Barrow Joins SCCA as Director of Road Racing, Flanagan Transitions to Director of Program Services

Jeff Barrow has joined the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) as the organization's new director of road racing, taking over for Deanna Flanagan, who will transition to her new role as director of program services.

Jeff Barrow Deanna Flanagan SCCA

Jeff Barrow (left) and Deanna Flanagan.

Barrow has more than 30 years of industry experience and previously held positions at Honda Racing Corp. U.S., Ligier Automotive North America, Radical Motorsport and Wellman Friction Products. He will be responsible for managing SCCA's amateur road racing program, including the U.S. Majors Tour, Hoosier Racing Tire SCCA Super Tour and National Championship Runoffs, as well as working with SCCA members and leaders within the SCCA Road Racing program.

As director of program services, Flanagan will join SCCA's business operations department, where she will use her experience in sanctioning, risk management, registration and worker initiatives in a newly created position to benefit all of the SCCA's events and programs.

For more information, see the full announcement.

Take 5 Oil Change Appoints New SVP of Field Operations

Take 5 Oil Change has named Missy McKinley as its new senior vice president of field operations.

Missy McKinley

McKinley previously served as senior vice president of operations for Scooter's Coffee and in leadership positions at Circle K and Dollar Tree.

In her new role, McKinley will oversee growth initiatives and enhancing customer experiences.

For more information, visit take5.com.


Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 08:15

By SEMA News Editors

Taylor Cable
Colored Spark Plug Wires
Taylor Cable

Taylor Cable recently announced the return of its colored spark plug wires. Crafted to combine functionality with aesthetic appeal, the company says, these high-performance wires are engineered to upgrade the look of any engine bay. Along with the traditional black, red and blue wires, new colors include yellow, orange, green, purple, pink and gray.

pertronixbrands.com.


Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 07:56

Michael Good

By Meredith Kaplan Burns

PRI welcomed its new President Michael Good on February 26, 2024. He recently sat down with PRI Magazine and shared his vision for the brand, where he sees the industry headed, how our industry can unite to address current and impending challenges, and his focus on continuous improvement not only for himself but guiding his team members as well.

For the complete interview, please read PRI Magazine's Newly Appointed column with Michael Good in the May 2024 edition.

PRI: How has your experience prepared you for this role to lead PRI?

Good: It is truly a humbling privilege to step into this role, into a team that exudes passion to connect, protect, and advocate for an industry that brings out the best in people. Each of us is a culmination of our prior experiences. It's through those experiences that we continuously learn, shape and mature in our approaches to simple tasks, and how we overcome and solve complex problems in changing times.

I am confident that my prior experiences, which include starting a company from just an idea to leading and growing global brands in the automotive space, have collectively given me the diverse background needed to embrace our changing world. Together we will bring new and innovative methods to the industry that further strengthen our position to attract future generations while embracing those that have been engaged with PRI from the beginning.

PRI: Why is this position a good fit for you? And why are you a great fit for PRI?

Good: I don't take for granted that I've been able to align my passions and my career. I believe that you are either running from something or running to something throughout your life. I was fortunate to have a great career prior to joining PRI. I saw this opportunity as definitely running to something. When I look at the foundation of PRI--a strong connection to our members, constantly advocating for our members, and always looking for new, innovative ways to connect our industry peers to one another, and then combine that with the brand equity of a 36-year-old organization, I see tremendous upside potential. My ability to help shape the culture and strategic vision, understanding how to bring the voice of the customer into our decision-making process, to do all of that at a best-in-class level, is what excites me the most. I can clearly see the path ahead and understand what it will take to for PRI to become an even more integral partner to the industry.

PRI: Can you cite some examples as to why you are bullish on the racing market? Why are you optimistic about racing's future?

Good: The racing industry is not only founded on innovation, but it also embraces the technologies that exist outside of the racing industry--autonomous driving and AI, for example--and finds ways to incorporate them. In many ways, innovation and technology have lowered the barriers to entry for enthusiasts to get involved in racing. The expansion of the sim-racing world is bringing a younger generation into the industry and giving them an introduction to the sport, in a virtual manner. Technology and innovation can drive future growth, and I believe we're seeing that in the growth of grassroots racing in local markets across the United States.

I'm optimistic that racing will continue to evolve and take on new and exciting ways to pursue speed.

PRI: What are you most looking forward to in your new role here at PRI?

Good: Engaging with the manufacturers to learn more about how best to help them grow their businesses! Driving change where it is needed and making sure not to try and fix what is not broken.

PRI: Is there a valuable piece of advice or a lesson you picked up along the way that has served you well through the years?

Good: Three things come to mind. I'm a firm believer that you get back what you put into the world, so lead with grace. Invest in your EQ [emotional intelligence] as much or more than you invest in your IQ. Never let your current circumstances drive you to make an impractical decision that could have long-term negative implications.

And BTBVOY: Work a little bit each day to 'Become the Best Version of Yourself.'

Thu, 03/21/2024 - 07:34

Jeep Beach Week

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) are hosting a networking mixer during Jeep Beach Week in Daytona, Florida.

The event will take place on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. (EDT), on the third level of the Daytona International Speedway.

The mixer is the ideal event for TORA and FLN members to grow their professional network, discover business and career-building resources and connect with each group's select committee. Attendees will learn about member resources, find open volunteer opportunities and forge valuable relationships that can drive their business forward.

Prospective TORA and FLN members are encouraged to attend the event, as it's a great way to discover the benefits of SEMA council and network membership. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be served.

RSVP here.