Thu, 01/25/2024 - 06:40

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Hyundai, the SEMA Garage has announced there are still spots remaining for its measuring session for the all-new '24 Hyundai Santa Fe.

Hyundai Sante Fe

Did someone mention off-road and overland? This exclusive event, February 6-7 in Southern California, will present Santa Fe's all-new, highly anticipated XRT trim level. The XRT trim is decked with rugged features like all-terrain tires, raised ground clearance, HTRAC all-wheel drive and more.

SEMA members will have the opportunity to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have a close-up experience ahead of the vehicle's public release. If you're passionate about the off-road and overland industry, this is an event that you don't want to miss.

Digital data for the vehicle will be available through the SEMA Tech Transfer program following the event.

'24 Hyundai Santa Fe Measuring Session

February 6-7, 2024

 SEMA Garage in Southern California

 1577 Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 View on Google Maps.

 Click here to RSVP!

For more information, visit the RSVP link or contact measuringsessions@sema.org. Don't delay; spots are filling up fast. RSVP now.

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 06:16

SEMA Garage Chevy Silverado ADAS TestingBy SEMA Garage staff

At the 2023 SEMA Show, the SEMA Garage announced its all-new advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) research white paper, "ADAS functionality and aftermarket modifications - 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500," which highlights groundbreaking research in the field of lifted vehicles equipped with ADAS.

Utilizing objective, data-driven ADAS testing and analysis methods, as defined by NHTSA, the team at SEMA Garage has been able to effectively determine how a lifted vehicle responds differently to camera and radar ADAS functions.

"For several years now, we've introduced ADAS to the aftermarket industry as an educational topic. In 2022, we decided that it was time to take the next step and put the education into practice. We developed a state-of-the-art ADAS Recalibration Center inside of our SEMA Garage Detroit facility, designed with the guidance of our partners from the collision repair industry," said Luis Morales, director of vehicle technology at SEMA Garage. "However, the recalibration portion only answers part of the question. We needed to dig deeper and dynamically measure the ADAS performance of the modified vehicle. Thanks to our partnerships, we have now started to answer more of the complete question and develop future pathways for our industry."

ADAS Functional Effects of Lifting a Vehicle

Vehicles equipped with certain aftermarket modifications shall be considered to need recalibration of the original equipment ADAS sensors. Any change in tire diameter, rake angle or vehicle ride height could affect sensor readings and necessitate calibration of an ADAS system. Modifying vehicles, whether lifted or lowered, may affect ADAS functionality and the SEMA Garage ADAS Technology Center is intended to be one of the members' tools to fully understand the ADAS function resulting from modifying vehicles with modern vehicle technology cameras and radar sensors.

To collect the most precise data, the SEMA Garage tested and shows results for a stock vehicle equipped with a 2-in. level kit, 3.5-in. and 6-in. lift kits, tested against requirements for:

  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keep Support (LKS)
  • Crash Imminent Braking (CIB) = Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)
  • Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Project Background

The SEMA Garage research project was the first known of its kind in the aftermarket. While it must be emphasized that the test performed, and the results recorded and explained herein are only a subset of the NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) System Confirmation and Performance Evaluation tests, and were only run on one vehicle model, they are a first step in understanding the relationship between aftermarket modifications and ADAS functionality, allowing for some initial findings to be drawn.

The hypothesis being tested during this research was: if typical aftermarket modifications are made to a 2022 Chevy Silverado, then original equipment ADAS functionality will not be significantly affected. Based on the results of the research, there is sufficient evidence to support this claim for this vehicle. After all the aftermarket modifications were implemented to the test vehicle, the vehicle retained its ADAS functionality.

The SEMA Garage ADAS Research Center

The SEMA Garage ADAS Research Center is available to help SEMA member manufacturers develop products from start to finish.

"The automotive industry is currently in an evolution state, ranging from advanced powertrains and fuels, safety systems, and user experiences. Five years ago, we recognized a need for our members in product development, as it relates to ADAS. When we were designing our second SEMA Garage, in Detroit, the integration of the ADAS Technology Center was vital to their success," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. "It's an exciting time for all, especially for those within the Specialty Equipment Market Association. SEMA members develop aftermarket products that directly integrate with this advancing technology."

Modifying vehicles, whether lifted or lowered, may affect ADAS functionality, and the SEMA ADAS Technology Center is intended to be one of the members' tools to fully understand the ADAS function resulting from modifying vehicles with modern vehicle technology cameras and radar sensors.

"The SEMA Garage develops the services and technologies to support our members' needs," said Mike Mohacsi, vice president of SEMA Garage. "ADAS is the next progression of safety standards, similar but different to Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), backup camera and electronic stability control (ESC). We take our members' product development seriously and support them with new technologies like ADAS."

The following are actions that you can take now:

  • Understand ADAS functionality and how modifications can successfully be incorporated, as well as any limitations. This can involve product- or model-unique engineering as well as vehicle testing.
  • Familiarize yourself with current NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) guidelines.
  • Consider future federal motor vehicle safety standards for Automatic Emergency Breaking and Pedestrian AEB.
  • Engage product design and development with ADAS Testing.
  • Review vehicle dynamics engineering considerations.
    • Understand design FMEAs (failure mode and effect analysis)
    • Conduct subjective testing (i.e. test drives)
    • Conduct objective testing (i.e. data from test tracks)
  • Support Installers with information necessary to be compliant with vehicle OEM ADAS functionality.

"Change to vehicle safety has arrived and will continue to evolve. The Aftermarket must take action to prepare for the continued changing landscape," said Mike Muller, ADAS engineer. "The technology is here. Utilizing the existing cameras and radars on vehicles, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated their Notice of Public Rule Making process to make Automatic Emergency Breaking required on every new vehicle sometime in the near future. The ADAS testing, data and results conducted by the SEMA Garage follow these pending NHTSA Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards."

The full ADAS white paper is available for download here: semagarage.com/services/vehicleadas

To learn more about the SEMA Garage Detroit and the ADAS Technology Center, contact: adas@sema.org or (909) 610-2030

More Resources:


The information contained herein is for testing performed on, and specific to, the 2022 Chevy Silverado vehicle acquired. The results should not be interpreted in any way to conclude the specific modifications are representative of the outcome(s) that might occur for identical/like or other modification of any other vehicle (including the Silverado).

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:59

Ed Sunday's Custom Auto AirBy Ashley Reyes

SEMA's Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) has named Custom Auto Air as the council's newest member spotlight company. Get to know its story in the SEMA News interview with Ed Sunday, owner of Custom Auto Air, below. 

SEMA News: Was there any kind of breakthrough moment for your company? 

Ed Sunday: I ran a general auto repair shop for 45 years, retired two years ago and finally got to do what I really wanted to do--install A/C in hot rods. 

SN: What projects are you most excited about? 

ES: I work with other shops installing and fabricating A/C lines and hoses. I get to work on unusual projects like a '62 Rambler with factory air. I love them all. To me, it's like art! 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket? 

ES: Spend the time to work with the professionals in your area, and read and study everything you can. There's so much to know.

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates.  

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:52

internal combustion engine V6By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

South Dakota has introduced SEMA-supported legislation that would prevent any county or city in the state from limiting access to internal combustion engines (ICE) and related technology. The bill awaits consideration by the House Local Government Committee. 

Following the news in West Virginia last week, South Dakota is the latest state to introduce this legislation in the 2024 state legislative sessions. Several other states (Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio and North Carolina) have previously passed similar legislation and resolutions in a positive update for the industry.

SEMA believes South Dakota residents, not the government, should be allowed to choose the type of vehicle technology that best serves them and their families. 

Use this link to tell lawmakers to support internal combustion engines. 

For more information, contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:36

FLN Spotlight Isabelle GillespieBy Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Isabella Gillespie, manager of corporate partnerships at Barrett-Jackson, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Gillespie in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received?  

Isabella Gillespie: Two pieces of advice stand out to me. One is that your actions do the talking, and two is that you're allowed to change your mind and/or start over. Both have ensured that I focus on what matters when pursuing a goal or dream and allowed me to give myself permission to pivot and realign when necessary. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

IG: Irrefutable passion and the car community. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

IG: Cars and coffee or shopping vintage thrift stores on the hunt for period-correct concours fashion! 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?  

IG: Ensure the goals for the meeting have been clearly identified and communicated. Based on the meeting type, I conduct research to ensure I am knowledgeable enough to ask the right questions. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?  

IG: Without hesitation, my choice would be Sandra Button. Having had the privilege of meeting her briefly at automotive events, I am continually inspired by her exceptional ability to preserve cherished traditions while propelling the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance into the future.  

Sandra's visionary approach, marked by a keen eye for innovation, ensures that this iconic event remains not just significant but prevalent in the automotive world. What sets her apart further is her humility and dedication to highlighting her team and the passionate automotive enthusiasts who breathe life into the event, reflecting her genuine commitment to fostering a sense of community within the industry.  

A lunch with Sandra Button would provide a unique opportunity to learn from a leader who has gracefully navigated tradition and innovation, making her a true inspiration in the automotive realm and a personal role model. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:26

professionals at auto manufacturing plan

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee passed H.R. 7024, the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024. The bipartisan legislation allows for immediate expensing of research and development (R&D) and investments in equipment, reduces reporting for small businesses using subcontractors, increases the small business expensing cap by nearly 30% and expands the Child Tax Credit.

The legislation now awaits consideration on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. 

SEMA members can benefit from the following parts of the legislation: 

  • Research and development (R&D) expensing: Businesses of all sizes can immediately deduct the cost of their U.S.-based R&D investments instead of over five years, encouraging American innovation and improving our competitive position versus China and the rest of the world. 
  • Interest deductibility: Continued flexibility for businesses forced to borrow at higher interest rates to meet their payroll obligations and expand their operations. 
  • 100% expensing: Restore full and immediate expensing for investments in machines, equipment and vehicles. 
  • Expand small business expensing cap: Increase the amount of investment that a small business can immediately write off to $1.29 million, an increase above the $1 million cap enacted in 2017. 
  • Cut red tape for small businesses: Adjust the reporting threshold for businesses that use subcontract labor from $600 to $1,000 and index for inflation, the first update to the threshold since the 1950s. 

"American families will benefit from this bipartisan agreement that provides greater tax relief, strengthens Main Street businesses, boosts our competitiveness with China and creates jobs. We even provide disaster relief and cut red tape for small businesses, while ending a COVID-era program that's costing taxpayers billions in fraud," said House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). "This legislation locks in over $600 billion in proven pro-growth, pro-America tax policies with key provisions that support over 21 million jobs. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation." 

Read the section by section for more information on this comprehensive tax package. Last June, the SEMA Washington, D.C., office reported on the Tax Cuts for Working Families Act (H.R. 3936), the Small Business Jobs Act (H.R. 3937) and the Build It in America Act (H.R. 3938) passing the House Ways & Means Committee, where we provided an in-depth analysis of the key provisions

SEMA, together with over 260 organizations, signed the National Association of Manufacturers' letter to U.S. House and Senate leadership in support of the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024. Click here to read the letter. 

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org. 

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:26

professionals at auto manufacturing plan

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee passed H.R. 7024, the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024. The bipartisan legislation allows for immediate expensing of research and development (R&D) and investments in equipment, reduces reporting for small businesses using subcontractors, increases the small business expensing cap by nearly 30% and expands the Child Tax Credit.

The legislation now awaits consideration on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. 

SEMA members can benefit from the following parts of the legislation: 

  • Research and development (R&D) expensing: Businesses of all sizes can immediately deduct the cost of their U.S.-based R&D investments instead of over five years, encouraging American innovation and improving our competitive position versus China and the rest of the world. 
  • Interest deductibility: Continued flexibility for businesses forced to borrow at higher interest rates to meet their payroll obligations and expand their operations. 
  • 100% expensing: Restore full and immediate expensing for investments in machines, equipment and vehicles. 
  • Expand small business expensing cap: Increase the amount of investment that a small business can immediately write off to $1.29 million, an increase above the $1 million cap enacted in 2017. 
  • Cut red tape for small businesses: Adjust the reporting threshold for businesses that use subcontract labor from $600 to $1,000 and index for inflation, the first update to the threshold since the 1950s. 

"American families will benefit from this bipartisan agreement that provides greater tax relief, strengthens Main Street businesses, boosts our competitiveness with China and creates jobs. We even provide disaster relief and cut red tape for small businesses, while ending a COVID-era program that's costing taxpayers billions in fraud," said House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). "This legislation locks in over $600 billion in proven pro-growth, pro-America tax policies with key provisions that support over 21 million jobs. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation." 

Read the section by section for more information on this comprehensive tax package. Last June, the SEMA Washington, D.C., office reported on the Tax Cuts for Working Families Act (H.R. 3936), the Small Business Jobs Act (H.R. 3937) and the Build It in America Act (H.R. 3938) passing the House Ways & Means Committee, where we provided an in-depth analysis of the key provisions

SEMA, together with over 260 organizations, signed the National Association of Manufacturers' letter to U.S. House and Senate leadership in support of the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024. Click here to read the letter. 

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org. 

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:17

Joey Logano in front of the 2021 Bronco First Edition and the rear of the Bronco First Edition

By SEMA News Editors

Joey Logano is auctioning off his '21 Ford Bronco First Edition, the 22nd of its kind to be built in honor of the No. 22 Autotrader Ford Mustang that Logano fields in the NASCAR Cup Series.

The highest verified offer will win the Bronco, plus two (2) VIP credentials to the 2024 Daytona 500 and a meeting with Joey Logano himself. 

All proceeds of the auction benefit the Joey Logano Foundation, which invests in organizations offering assistance to children and young adults during times of crisis and works to inspire others to live a life of generosity. Since 2013, the Joey Logano Foundation has invested over $5,000,000 in various organizations nationwide and has positively impacted the lives of more than 250,000 children and young adults.

The '21 Ford Bronco First Edition is upgraded with several RTR Lab modifications, including:

  • RTR Tech 6 with custom bronze powder coat.
  • 37-in. Nitto Ridge Grappler tires.
  • RTR rear tire carrier.
  • RTR adjustable tailgate stop.
  • RTR Molle accessory plate.
  • RTR upper grille w/ LEDs.
  • RTR light bar w/ PROJECT X Offroad FF.70 lights.
  • MagnaFlow performance exhaust system.

Bidding closes Wednesday, January 31, 11:59 p.m. EST/8:59 p.m. PST. To make an offer, visit the AutoTrader listing here. For more information, visit joeyloganofoundation.com.

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 11:11

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Cares, SEMA's collective charity fundraising group, raised $138,064.33 in 2023. The funds will benefit the association's three partnering children's charities: Austin Hatcher Foundation for pediatric cancer, Childhelp for prevention and treatment of child abuse, and Victory Junction camp for children with serious medical conditions and illnesses. 

Established in 2007, SEMA Cares provides a forum from which SEMA members can act as a collective influence toward making a positive impact beyond the automotive community. SEMA Cares volunteers work year-round and behind-the-scenes to host and assist with various sponsored events, each with the goal of raising money and awareness for children in need.  

SEMA Cares Pinewood Drags

The funds will benefit the association's three partnering charities: Austin Hatcher Foundation, Childhelp and Victory Junction.

"We are extremely grateful for the industry's generosity in helping to make a positive difference in young lives," said SEMA Cares Chair Sara Morosan. "By incorporating the joy of automotive into fun activities and fundraising, SEMA Cares is able give young minds a very important relief from hard circumstances, even if only for a brief moment."  

Funds for SEMA Cares in 2023 were generated through various efforts, including the Pinewood Drags, held at the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala and TORA Industry Reception. The Pinewood Drags are a staple of each event, bringing members together to race miniature wooden cars and trucks, designed by children and adults, in thrilling downhill races. Concurrently, the Industry Cup Challenge  is where top sponsoring companies race their pinewoods for bragging rights and trophy-cup immortality. 

Direct donations from industry members and sales from SEMA Gear merchandise and celebrity-signed pinewood cars also contributed to the SEMA Cares fundraising efforts. Notably, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) made a significant impact, raising a commendable $59,000 through the auction of their all-female Bronco build. The Bronco was built in partnership with Ford Motor Company, SEMA Garage and SEMA member volunteers, and features SEMA member-donated parts and accessories. 

"Victory Junction's goal is to provide life-changing camp experiences for children with serious medical conditions free of charge. The funding from SEMA Cares allows us to provide these fun experiences, and it allows our kids to build confidence and friendships," said Victory Junction President and CEO Chad A. Coltrane. "Victory Junction simply cannot provide these services without the dedicated and generous support of SEMA Cares. We are so thankful to have SEMA Cares as a part of our VJ family!" 

To learn more about SEMA Cares and how to support the industry's fundraising efforts, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares

Tue, 01/23/2024 - 10:50

Battle of the Builders 2023

By SEMA News Editors 

SEMA celebrates 10 years of the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish car-building competition with an all-new television show chronicling the 2023 contest on the History Channel, plus new videos looking back on 10 years of car culture's ultimate battle.  

Held annually in Las Vegas, SEMA Battle of the Builders celebrates the best car builders and showcases their most innovative builds.  

"I'm very honored to be the 2023 Battle of the Builders winner. It's a dream come true," said Andy Leach, 2023 winner for his '60 Buick Invicta Custom "X-60." "I've been chasing this award for nearly a decade. The Buick was a labor of love, and I'm glad all our hard work and effort has been recognized, especially against all the stiff competition we faced. The Buick Invicta Custom 'X-60' embodies every inch of its potential and evokes emotions in the spirit of what this car stood for in 1960." 

The television show commemorating the 2023 event premieres SaturdayJanuary 27 at 9 a.m. EST/6 a.m. PST on the History Channel. Filmed during the SEMA Show last November, the show gives viewers an inside look to the competition and includes interviews with competitors and behind-the-scenes footage.  

"Battle of the Builders represents the best of car culture, innovation and competition," said RJ de Vera, SEMA vice president of marketing. "We're pleased to share the story of the 2023 competition through the History Channel program, as well as celebrate our first decade with some extra surprises for our fans."  

In addition to the TV show, SEMA is also commemorating this milestone anniversary with a series of new videos featuring past champions reflecting on the experience and the unique place SEMA Battle of the Builders holds in car culture.  

Over the years, the competition has launched the careers of dozens of builders and debuted several truly iconic builds. The bonus anniversary footage produced by SEMA relives some of the greatest moments from a decade of battles. The new content can be viewed on SEMA's YouTube channel.  

Cam Miller, the 2016 champion, is one of the builders featured in the retrospectives. "Winning the Battle of the Builders opened a lot of doors for us," said Miller. "SEMA is the biggest international stage you can have and the exposure that comes with that is really big. It's so powerful."  

The television program is hosted by Adrienne Janic and Tanner Foust, and features industry experts Ryan BasseriKyle KuhnhausenCam Miller and Jeremiah Proffitt selecting the top 12 builders from four different categories: Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck; Sport Compact, Luxury & Exotics; 4-Wheel Drive & Off-Road; and Young Guns, a category for builders age 29 and under. Viewers will see the expert judges narrow the competitors down to 12, and then the top 12 finalists vie amongst themselves to select their respective class champions and the overall winner.   

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders, visit semashow.com/botb