Tue, 01/16/2024 - 11:46

By SEMA News Editors

HOT ROD Power Tour Reveals 2024 Schedule

Celebrating 30 years in 2024, the HOT ROD Power Tour has revealed the schedule for the five-day tour through the Southeast and Midwest.

HOT ROD Power Tour

The 2024 HOT ROD Power Tour starts on Monday, June 10, at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

The traveling car show draws more than 6,000 cars and trucks of all years, makes and models, and will feature more than 1,000 miles of driving, drag racing, autocross, live entertainment and more.

The five-stop tour will begin on June 10 at Beech Bend Raceway Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky, and conclude on June 14 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Indianapolis, Indiana.

HOT ROD Power Tour 2024 Schedule

  • Day 1: Monday, June 10 – Beech Bend Raceway Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky.
  • Day 2: Tuesday, June 11 – Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon, Tennessee.
  • Day 3: Wednesday, June 12 – L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, Louisville, Kentucky.
  • Day 4: Thursday, June 13 – National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio.
  • Day 5: Friday, June 14 – Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Indianapolis, Indiana.

More details for the 2024 HOT ROD Drag Week are expected at a later date.

For more information, visit hotrodpowertour.us.

NASCAR Cup Series Establishes 2024 Short Track, Road Course Rules Package

NASCAR Cup Series officials have announced updates to the short-track and road -ourse rules package for 2024.

The changes, including a simplified rear diffuser with fewer vertical strakes, will go into effect at the first short-track race of the season at Arizona's Phoenix Raceway in March.

The aerodynamic changes aim to promote more competitive racing on those track types, the organization said.

For more information, visit the NASCAR announcement or visit nascar.com.


For additional racing news, visit the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) website

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com.

Tue, 01/16/2024 - 11:11

Magna impairment detection

By SEMA News Editors

Magna Introduces Impaired-Driving Prevention Technology

Magna, the automotive supplier based in Aurora, Ontario, Canada, has introduced a breath and camera-based pre-development technology designed to combat impaired driving. 

The new safety technology is designed to determine if drivers are "fit to drive" in a fast, reliable and affordable way. The integrated solution utilizes camera technology to detect driver distraction, drowsiness and intoxication through pupillary signals, with infrared sensor technology developed by Senseair.

Cockpit-embedded sensors, placed in proximity to the driver, measure and quantify the alcohol and carbon dioxide levels in diluted exhalations from the driver. The technology is intended to passively detect an intoxicated driver with a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit of 0.08% in all states except Utah, where the legal limit is 0.05%.

"As we continue to support the company's vision of advancing mobility for everyone, our team is focused on delivering active safety innovations that help reduce accidents and fatalities," said Bill Snider, president of electronics at Magna. "We are working with our customers and the industry to take a significant step forward in making the roads safer for all who share them."

For more information, visit the Magna announcement or magna.com.

Melling Engine Parts Acquires QualCast

Melling Engine Parts, a Jackson, Michigan-based manufacturer of oil pumps and other powertrain components, has acquired QualCast, a supplier of valvetrain automotive parts based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Qualcast offers valvetrain solutions for heavy-duty, industrial, light- and medium-duty, marine and performance applications.

Melling and QualCast will continue operating independently, the company said.

For more information, visit melling.com.

BorgWarner Forms Joint Venture for Chinese Electric Commercial Vehicle Market

BorgWarner is expanding its product portfolio for battery electric and hybrid commercial vehicles by agreeing to form a joint venture with Shaanxi Fast Auto Drive Group, a China-based commercial vehicle parts supplier specializing in transmission and drivetrain systems.

The company expects to finalize the establishment of the high-voltage inverter joint venture in the first quarter of 2024.

For more information, visit borgwarner.com.

Stellantis Partners With BlackBerry QNX, AWS to Launch Virtual Cockpit 

Stellantis has launched a virtual cockpit as a component of the Stellantis Virtual Engineering Workbench.

The new platform uses the QNX Hypervisor in the cloud from BlackBerry via AWS Marketplace, and allows Stellantis to create realistic virtual versions of car controls and systems, accelerating the delivery of new infotainment technology to customers.

With the platform, Stellantis can accelerate customer feedback sessions, and with minimal effort and time, replicate the cockpit experience of a particular brand and vehicle, and make changes in real time to optimize the experience for the driver.

Sydney CroftFor more information, visit stellantis.com.

MBE Group Hires New Account Executive

Marx Buscemi Eisbrenner Group (MBE Group), a marketing communications agency serving the automotive, mobility, trucking, tech and consumer goods industries, has hired Sydney Croft as an account executive.  

Croft will serve as the daily contact for accounts, leveraging brand strategy, digital marketing, media relations, social media marketing and event coordination, and will be based out of the company’s headquarters in Troy, Michigan.

In her previous position, Croft served as a senior analytics digital consultant for automotive OEMs and dealerships, including Jaguar Land Rover.

For more information, visit mbe.group.


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

Tue, 01/16/2024 - 10:56

By SEMA News Editors

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

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.

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.

Tue, 01/16/2024 - 10:34

SEMA Member Portal login

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Member Portal at SEMA.org makes it easier than ever for both business and individual SEMA members to take advantage of the many deals, discounts and opportunities available to them. The custom dashboard shows members all the benefits open to them, eliminating the need to contact different departments and bounce around from call to call.

Here's how to access the SEMA Member Portal in three easy steps:

  • Employees of SEMA-member businesses and SEMA individual members should navigate to SEMA.org.
  • Select "login" from the upper right of the webpage and sign in with your user's email and password. Forgot your password? Select "Forgot your password?" for further instructions. 
  • Select "My Profile" in the upper right corner, and choose "My Benefits" under account links to see all the available benefits.

If your business is not currently a SEMA member, you can gain member portal access and start saving and growing your business today at sema.org/join.

Tue, 01/16/2024 - 10:20

FLN Spotlight Armond GilmoreThe SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Armond Gilmore, media manager at Skyjacker Suspensions, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Gilmore in his interview with SEMA News below. 

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

Armond Gilmore: Learn something new every day. The world is forever changing, and we must adapt to these changes. By consistently educating ourselves and trying new things, we will learn we can change and grow, which keeps us open to new opportunities in life. Working on the creative side of the industry, I'm presented with various trends that I must navigate to ensure my team is set up for success. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

AG: The love and passion from everyone in the industry! I've met, networked and worked with so many fantastic people over the years. It's so inspiring [to see] so many people dedicated to keeping this industry going for years to come! 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

AG: On any given Saturday, you can find me hanging out with family and friends, working on projects around the house or fulfilling my military obligation. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?  

AG: Generally, I complete any part of the meeting that affects me before it. That usually consists of design concepts, marketing ideas, and video projects that are in the works. It really makes it easier to have the projects in front of everyone so that we can discuss and make sound decisions at the given time. I also ensure to have my favorite pen, sketchbook and water bottle with me during all meetings. 

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

AG: Larry Chen. I have admired his photographic eye and work for many years now. From all of the events and the famous people he's photographed over the years, it's incredible how he keeps going and gets better and better. I would love to pick his brain on his techniques and favorite events he has covered. 

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, 01/16/2024 - 07:24

Loan ForgivenessBy Ashley Reyes

SEMA member company employees have an exclusive opportunity to apply to reduce their student debt through the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Loan Forgiveness applications are open now and run through March 1 at sema.org/loan-forgiveness

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program issues awards up to $2,000 to individuals who are paying off a degree or certification from a college, university, or career tech school in the United States or Canada. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a passion for the automotive industry and have a minimum of $2,000 in student loans. 

"Receiving a SEMA loan forgiveness award presents a unique for our members to focus more on excelling in their careers, rather than be burdened by financial strain," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Chris Standifer. "It also helps to ease their stress, motivating them to pursue new goals and thrive in the automotive aftermarket industry." 

The Loan Forgiveness program is open exclusively to employees of SEMA member businesses as a benefit of membership. Review the eligibility requirements and submit your application at sema.org/loan-forgiveness. Questions can be directed to Chris Standifer at Chriss@sema.org

Tue, 01/16/2024 - 07:19

SEMA News sources recently captured images of a heavily camouflaged Audi prototype, suspected to be the forthcoming Audi Q7.

The SUV, with rims reminiscent of early Q7 test mules and other design elements similar to the new Q3, will likely be Audi's final European model with internal combustion engine (ICE) power.

Audi Q7 prototype driving on winter road

However, the identity of the model is challenged by the prototype's grille, resembling that of the China-only Q6, insiders said. Pillar-mounted side mirrors add another layer of ambiguity, as they differ from the current European and American Q7. The '25 Audi Q3 will have mirrors on the doors, while the '24 Q5 opts for A-pillar mounting.

Audi Q7 prototype driving on winter road

Adding to the confusion, all future Audis, whether in China, Europe or the United States, electric or ICE-powered, will feature solid brackets for door handles. Despite being an ICE-powered SUV, the photographed car displayed flush handles, a design element absent in Audis for at least a decade, according to sources.

Amid these uncertainties, the target market for this vehicle remains unknown.

Tue, 01/16/2024 - 06:36

Honda is launching a new global electric vehicle series, the Honda 0 Series, in 2026, and premiered two concept models, the Saloon and Space-Hub, at CES 2024.

The new EV line will coincide with a new "H mark" logo that will be used exclusively for the vehicle series.

Both models were developed using a new Honda electrification design and engineering approach that will debut with the introduction of the Honda 0 Series, the manufacturer said.

Honda 0 Series Saloon and Space Hub

A production vehicle based on the Saloon concept (left) will debut in the North American market in 2026.

The Saloon is the flagship concept model of the Honda 0 Series. Sitting on a dedicated EV platform and utilizing sustainable materials throughout, the Saloon has a low and wide exterior coupled with a spacious interior. Inside, the instrument panel features a human-machine interface (HMI) that enables simple and intuitive operations, Honda said.

The Saloon also debuts advancements of new steer-by-wire and motion-control management systems, and features posture control that will assist the driver in a variety of driving situations, the company said. A production vehicle based on the Saloon concept is expected to come to the North American market in 2026.

The Space-Hub was developed under the theme of “augmenting people's daily lives,” Honda said, and was designed to provide a spacious cabin and excellent visibility. The concept offers a flexible space that accommodates a variety of passengers and becomes a “hub” that connects people.

For more information, visit 0.honda.

Fri, 01/12/2024 - 12:13

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News highlights new products from industry companies when available. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

Wilwood Disc Brakes
Universal Flexline Hose Kits for Solid Axles
Wilwood Tab Mount Kit

Weld-On Tab Flexline Kit

Clamp Mount Kit

3-in. Axle Clamp Flexline Kit

Wilwood has engineered two kits for mounting Flexline hoses to solid axle rearends. Either kit, offered with weld-on tabs or 3-in. axle clamps, will assist the installer by including all necessary parts to attach calipers to the chassis hardlines.

wilwood.com

Thu, 01/11/2024 - 13:56

Mini's first new model name in 10 years, the Aceman, was spotted in heavy camouflage outside of Munich, Germany, SEMA News sources have confirmed. The spotting is the first time the car has been seen without plastic cladding covering the lamps and bumpers.

The Aceman is a small electric crossover designed to fill the gap between the flagship Mini hatchback and Mini Countryman SUV.

Mini Aceman in camouflage

The Aceman is a small electric crossover designed to fill the gap between the flagship Mini hatchback and Mini Countryman SUV.

Expected to hit dealerships later this year, the Mini Aceman is an all-new design and the second in a series of electric vehicles using Mini's Spotlight platform, developed by BMW and Chinese partner Great Wall Motors.

Measuring 5.2-ft. high, 13.2-ft. long and 6.5-ft. wide, the Aceman shares a platform with the new all-electric version of the Mini hatchback, according to insiders, and is expected to share its drivetrain options, too. The hatch will come in entry-level Cooper trim, with 184 hp and a 40-kWh battery, while the Cooper S will get 224 hp and a 50-kWh battery for a range of around 250 miles.

Mini Aceman in camouflage

The Aceman shares a platform with the all-electric version of the Mini hatchback and is also expected to share its drivetrain options.

The new model also emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency, with the production-spec Aceman adopting a rounded, clean front end and a less upright stance than the concept, sources said. 

Taking over its place in Mini's new-look lineup, the Aceman will likely have similar levels of passenger space and comparable luggage capacity.

The Aceman's interior is dominated by a large central screen and a set of five toggle switches. Aside from these, buttons are almost absent from the sustainable textile or leatherette-clad dashboard fascia.