By Ashley Reyes

Aspiring leaders in the automotive aftermarket industry aged 39 and under can enhance their personal and professional development by applying today for the 2024 SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program (PDP). The program will take place in person, May 16-17, at the SEMA Garage in Detroit. Applications are open now and close Wednesday, March 13 at sema.org/fln-pdp.

Below are the top five reasons to apply for the program:

Save $800 off exclusive Dale Carnegie Training. 

The program offers a unique opportunity for 25 FLN members to receive a 50% discount (an $800 savings) off the original $1,600 Dale Carnegie price. 

Learn the art of professional communication. 

Attendees will elevate their communication skills through interactive lessons and take part in group exercises that will teach them to communicate professionally and confidently in various business situations.

Gain new tools for relationship-building. 

Attendees will learn how to build relationships and deal with difficult people in multiple scenarios. They will also discover ways to gain cooperation and influence people, including direct reports, laterally and upward.

Discover how to use emotional controls to sustain success. 

Attendees will learn how to use emotional controls to navigate challenging situations and make decisions that positively impact them in their professional careers. 

Network with industry peers. 

Attendees will connect with like-minded professionals, share their unique experiences, and establish friendships with individuals who share their passions and goals. 

Applications for the FLN Professional Development Program (PDP) are open now until Wednesday, March 13. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your career. Apply now before time runs out at sema.org/fln-pdp.  

Questions can be directed to FLN Director Denise Waddingham at deniselw@sema.org.

By 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. 

By SEMA News Editors

Audi Q5 Drops Camo During Cold-Weather Testing

A SEMA News source recently shared new images of the upcoming Audi Q5 testing in Sweden.

The images reveal the mid-size SUV's production grille for the first time, signaling that the new Q5 might be the last Audi model without a split headlight layout. The Q5, draped in black and white camouflage except for the grille, suggests a longer wheelbase compared to the current model, promising enhanced cabin space, especially in the second row.

Appearing larger than the current model, the third generation of Audi's mid-size luxury SUV maintains the single-frame grille and adds new air curtains. Audi plans to continue producing combustion-engine vehicles for the next decade, sources said, indicating that the upcoming Q5 will offer a range of gas and diesel powertrains, including mild-hybrid assistance, and stronger electrified options such as plug-in hybrid models. The lineup is expected to include the more powerful SQ5 and possibly an RS Q5. Additionally, the Sportback body style is anticipated to continue with the next generation.

Audi Q9 Prototype Photographed in Arctic Circle

The Audi Q9, one of the final gas-powered vehicles expected from Audi, was spotted in the Arctic by SEMA News sources.

Scheduled for release next year, the Audi Q9 will be positioned as a flagship, three-row luxury SUV, aiming to compete with the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Targeting primarily the United States and Asia, the Q9 will boast a luxurious cabin and upscale features for all three rows of passengers, according to insiders.

Additionally, reports indicate that the Q9 will include plug-in-hybrid models and the potential for a V8-powered model to lead the lineup.

The development of the 2025 Audi Q9 is still in its early stages, and a formal unveiling is anticipated towards the end of 2024.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) has expanded its membership and is now the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension, & Brake Council (WTSBC). The evolution marks a significant shift towards uniting industry companies to further collaborate and network on similar challenges, as well as gain access to programs and resources that can help them thrive in their business.

"Expanding the council presents a unique opportunity to be more cross-functional and interconnected on opportunities and challenges that these four communities face," said Michael Lusso, sustaining engineering manager for the COATS Company and current chair of the WTSBC. "The expansion will be pivotal in building a larger platform for fundamental discussion, which will help us to drive the market and wield a stronger voice." 

Lusso also notes that the complexity of advanced technology such as electric and autonomous vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), emissions compliance and global competition are just a few challenges that members can come together to learn about and discuss. 

"The WTSBC offers a community where wheel, tire, suspension and brake companies can learn and grow through targeted education sessions, information sharing and networking opportunities," added WTSBC Director Nicole Bradle. "Members also receive exclusive access to leadership development and volunteer opportunities, member spotlights in SEMA News and a bi-monthly newsletter keeping members informed on their ongoing benefits." 

WTSBC membership is open to manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers and service providers. To learn more about the WTSBC or to sign up to become a member, contact Nicole Bradle at nicoleb@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Lane Automotive Installs Automated Warehouse Robotics System

Lane Automotive, the Michigan-based parent company of Motor State Distributing, Allstar Performance and other racing and performance brands, has installed a new warehouse robotics system to automate distribution operations.

The Exotec Skypod system is an automated goods-to-person solution that utilizes robots able to reach a height of 39 ft. to enable high-density inventory storage, helping to automate manual tasks and reduce order fulfillment time, the company said.

Installed at Lane Automotive's Southwest Michigan distribution center, the system has been fully operational since December 19, 2023, and features 62 deployed robots, five picking stations and 59,600 storage bins.

For more information, visit laneautomotive.com.

AAM Group Now Accepting Applications for 2024 Scholarship Program

The AAM Group, the Piney Flats, Tennessee-based distribution group, is now accepting applications for its 2024 AAM Scholarship program.

This educational aid program supports full-time employees (and their families) of AAM-member warehouses in the pursuit of their educational goals at a two-year community college, technical school or four-year college (undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate). Up to five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded for one year to high school graduates in good scholastic standing. A committee of independent, third-party evaluators selects the recipients.

The application period officially opens April 15, though applicants may begin submitting early, and closes May 31; winners will be notified by August 15. Applicants must be at least 16 years old on the day the application is due and have graduated high school or its equivalent with a minimum 3.0 GPA before July 1 of the year in which they will use the scholarship. Applicants must be a full-time employee of an AAM member or a child, grandchild, sister or brother of such an employee.  

For more information or to submit an application, visit theAAMGroup.com/scholarships.

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

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, the aftermarket's premier conference for establishing connections between motorsports parts manufacturers and media professionals, is relocating from Los Angeles, California, to Orlando, Florida, in 2025. 

Unlike a traditional trade show where exhibitors meet with buyers and resellers, the Media Trade Conference is focused on private 30-minute meetings between manufacturers and media. Manufacturers take part in more than 40 meetings over a span of three days and gain valuable connections with journalists, editors, writers, podcasters, content creators and social-media influencers.  

"In the beginning, print media was primarily based in Southern California," said MPMC Chair-Elect Brian Bohlander of Old World Industries. "Now, with the influx of social-media influencers, as well as other media outlets, this move will help bring together additional East Coast media, new manufacturers and, potentially, international media."  

Historically known for its "speed-dating" format, the MPMC Media Trade Conference makes it easy for manufacturers to share detailed information about their products, changes in their company, and plans for the racing season. Journalists use the content collected to publish in their channels year-round.  

"Next year's Media Trade Conference will be right in the middle of several major motorsports events happening in Florida in late January," added Bohlander. "This should encourage more media and manufacturers from the East Coast that are already sending representatives to these events to participate."

In addition to private meetings, the event will continue to provide participants with opportunities to further their connections through networking events scheduled throughout the week. 

"The MPMC Media Trade Conference is committed to facilitating meaningful connections in a focused and targeted environment," said MPMC Director Marcy Yanus. "We look forward to the continued networking, collaboration and business growth that will result from this unique event."   

To learn more about the Media Trade Conference, visit sema.org/MTC.

By SEMA News Editors

As a result of the recent '24 Toyota Tacoma measuring session, the SEMA Garage Tech Transfer program is now offering a wide variety of 3D scan data of the new Tacoma model. The data accounts for various trim models, such as TRD Pro, TRD 4x4 and Trailhunter.

SEMA Tech Transfer members now have access to this data, ranging from individual components to the complete vehicle, including (but not limited to):

• Full exterior
• Frame sections
• Suspension
• Brake assemblies
• Wheels
• Exhaust system
• Air intake
• and much more.

To gain access to this data, please visit semagarage.com/techtransfer. 

For more information, contact engineeringservices@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff 

California has introduced SEMA-opposed legislation to require new vehicles to be equipped with speed governors starting in model-year '27. Speed governors, also known as intelligent speed limiters, use GPS technology to limit vehicle speed. If enacted into law, new vehicles would not be able to travel more than 10 mph above the speed limit.   

The legislation would require speed governors in all new vehicles by model year '27.

Currently, devices that prevent vehicles from exceeding a certain speed are not required. Among other issues, this proposal makes broad assumptions about real-world circumstances. This one-size-fits-all approach fails to recognize the diversity of driving experiences and the individual responsibility that automotive enthusiasts take seriously. 

Use this link to tell lawmakers to oppose mandatory speed limiters. 

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

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.

AST Suspension and MOTON Suspension

Honda Civic Type R (FL5) Adjustable Coilover Kits

AST Suspension has expanded its offerings for the Honda Civic Type R with three new adjustable coilover kits, ranging from street use to on-track applications. MOTON has also added to its product lineup with two-way and three-way, motorsports-focused kits.

The products are available through Turn 14 Distribution, the exclusive U.S. distributor for AST and MOTON.

ast-suspension.com.

Centerforce

Billet Steel Flywheels for Gen III and IV LS V8 Engines

Centerforce has released its new billet steel flywheel for LS-swap applications. The new flywheel is designed for pairing a Gen III or IV LS engine to a pre-LS manual transmission. Each kit includes the pilot bearing and comes pre-drilled with pressure plate bolt patterns.

centerforce.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Hankook Tire Appoints New North American Sales Executives

Hankook Tire has named Kyuwang (Ken) Cho as vice president of U.S. passenger car and light truck sales, and K.C. Jensen as vice president of passenger car and light truck sales.

Cho will oversee sales for the full passenger car and light truck market segments from the company's North American headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee. Jensen will focus on sales activities in the West region as vice president of passenger car and light truck sales. He will also lead strategic projects aligned with Hankook’s growth plans in the United States, the company said.

For more information, visit hankooktire.com.

ESAB Launches Future Fabricators Scholarship Program

ESAB, a Maryland-based provider of welding and cutting products, has launched its Future Fabricators Program. The new program offers 12 scholarships of $5,000 each that are awarded through the American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation.

ESAB’s Future Fabricators Program was developed for aspiring welders and fabricators to provide tools, equipment, scholarships, training and educational materials to technical and trade education programs from high schools to four-year welding engineering programs across North America. The scholarships support students working toward welding certifications and associate’s and baccalaureate welding degrees.

The application deadline for the 2024 National AWS Foundation scholarships is March 1.

To apply, visit scholarship.aws.org.

For more information, visit esab.com.

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