SEMA eNews Vol. 13, No. 21, May 27, 2010

	More than a dozen hotels along the Las Vegas Strip have decided to waive "resort fees" for 2010 SEMA Show and AAPEX attendees.

Exhibitors are busy ramping up for the 2010 SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 2–5, and, so far, more than 1,400 companies have reserved booth space, with more than 200 of them being first-time exhibitors.

To help attendees and exhibitors get the best hotel prices, Show organizers have negotiated with several properties in Las Vegas to waive newly instituted “resort fees” currently implemented throughout the city.

Properties that have agreed to waive the resort fee for attendees of the SEMA Show and AAPEX who book in the block include: Circus Circus, Excalibur, Hard Rock Hotel, Hooters Casino Hotel, Luxor, Mirage Hotel, Monte Carlo Resort & Casino, New York New York, PH Towers Westgate, Planet Hollywood, Sahara Hotel, Stratosphere, Treasure Island, Tropicana Resort, Trump International Hotel and Tower, Venetian Resort Hotel and the Westin Casuarina.



The resort fees will be waived at these properties only when reserving through the SEMA Hotel Booking Service. Hotel rooms reserved directly through the hotel or other services will still be charged a resort fee.



While many Las Vegas hotels have chosen to institute a resort fee, SEMA has also partnered with several properties that don't institute the supplemental charges, including ARIA Resort and Casino, Bally’s Casino Resort, Bellagio, Bluegreen Club 36, Caesars Palace, Flamingo, Harrah’s Hotel Las Vegas, Hilton Grand Vacation properties, Imperial Palace Hotel, Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas Marriott Suites, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, MGM Grand Hotel, Paris Las Vegas, Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel, Residence Inn by Marriott, Rio Suite Hotel, Rivera Hotel and the Springhill Suites.



The one hotel with a resort fee in SEMA’s official block is the Signature at MGM Grand. The fee is reduced for Show attendees from $20 to $10, however, if booked before August 27. The Mandalay Bay Resort has offered an option to add its $20 Resort Fee at check-in rather than making it a requirement if you stay at the hotel.


More information on hotel rates and availability can be found here.

Hotel			Resort Fee
ARIA Resort & Casino			None
Bally's Casino Resort			None
Bellagio			None
Bluegreen Club 36			None
Caesars Palace			None
Circus Circus			Waived $4.95 Fee
Excalibur			Waived $9.95 Fee
Flamingo			None
Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas			Waived $7 Fee
Harrah's Hotel Las Vegas			None
Hilton Grand Vacation - Las Vegas Strip			None
Hilton Grand Vacations - Las Vegas			None
Hooters Casino Hotel			Waived $7.50 Fee
Imperial Palace Hotel			None
Las Vegas Hilton			None
Las Vegas Marriott Suites			None
Luxor Las Vegas			Waived $12.95 Fee
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino			Option to add at check-in
Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas			None
MGM Grand Hotel			None
Mirage Hotel			Waived $15 Fee
Monte Carlo Resort & Casino			Waived $12.95 Fee
New York New York			Waived $11.99 Fee
Paris Las Vegas			None
PH Towers Westgate			Waived $4.99 Fee
Planet Hollywood			Waived $4.99 Fee
Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel			None
Residence Inn by Marriott			None
Rio Suite Hotel			None
Riviera Hotel			None
Sahara Hotel			Waived $6 Fee Until 7/15
Springhill Suites Convention Center			None
Stratosphere			Waived $5 Fee
The Signature at MGM Grand			$10 Fee per Night
Treasure Island			Waived $20 Fee
Tropicana Resort			Waived $7.99 Fee
Trump International Hotel and Tower			Waived $20 Fee
Venetian Resort Hotel Casino			None
Westin Casuarina Las Vegas			Waived $5 Fee

	Powersports dealers report that side-by-side sales are up due to increased accessory offerings and a consumer need for utility vehicles.

Gart Sutton & Associates (GSA), a leading authority of retail profitability in the powersports industry, recently polled some of its 20-group powersports dealers to get a better picture of what was happening in the powersports industry from the front lines.

Sutton and his team of industry experts will present Powersports Dealer Update Workshops at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 1–2, at the Renaissance Hotel next to the Las Vegas Convention Center.

GSA's poll revealed the following:

1. Dealer failures have been at a record high level for two years. Since some of these dealers were heavy discounters, this should help surviving dealers in affected regions. Many dealers who were not up on their performance-to-industry benchmarks and didn't respond quickly to reduce expenses relative to revenue never had a chance.

2. Current motorcycle sales continue to be down; 2008 was off 30%–40% from 2007 and 2009 was considerably off compared to 2008. Many dealers reported that March 2010 business was much better than last year, however.

3. Floor traffic is picking up, dealers are holding better margins, and some banks and credit unions are starting to free up money and "buy deeper" (lower credit scores).

4. Most dealers have reduced old inventory and are no longer "warehouses" for the manufacturers.

5. Parts sales and service work are strong, as customers are repairing rather than replacing their units.

Other positive indicators from March 2010 year-to-date compared with 2009 include:

• Overall store gross profit: up 2%
• Overall net operating profit: up 2.5%
• Personnel and administration expenses as a percentage of GP: down
• Percentage of revenue change: up more than 18% for groups reviewed
• New and pre-owned unit gross profit: up for all products except scooters
• Service labor margin: up 9%–10%
• F&I net operating profit $ PVS: up more than 160%

Current Unit Trends
Midsize street motorcycles and models with rebates are selling to today's budget-conscious customers. Sport bike sales remain slow but have picked up somewhat. Financing and insurance have been a problem here. These customers tend to be younger and many have poor credit. Off-road bike sales have been slow, except for a few models with high demand and low availability. Scooter sales have suffered as fuel prices remain relatively low.

ATV sales have been soft for the last few years, but are up from last spring. UTV ("side-by-sides") sales have been doing well. This market has grown due to wholegoods and accessory product expansion and improvements, combined with the need for utility vehicles. Some farmers, for example, are using these as a low-cost alternative to trucks and tractors for certain jobs.

Consumer Trends
Dealers report that today's consumers tend to be more mature with higher incomes and good credit histories, but take longer to close. They may come in four or more times before making a buying decision. Many have completed considerable web research. They know more about the products and what is on sale on dealer websites.

Marketing Trends
Most dealers report that traditional advertising is not producing. They are finding better results from social marketing, working trade/sports shows and community events.

Other Trends and Opportunities
Dealer Internet sales and using eBay to move obsolete inventory have changed dealership business structures. This profit center will only continue to grow. Social marketing through services such as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube has become more significant to powersports businesses. Dealers must become more creative and Internet-savvy to keep pace with the market.

Due to the reduction in the size of the dealer network, there is a huge opportunity for profitable growth as the economy slowly turns around. Product shortages and reduced competition mean dealers can hold better margins.

There are positive signs that the powersports business is improving. In order to survive the ups and downs of this market, controlling inventory and expenses must remain a priority. Dealers must also pursue a customer-satisfaction business philosophy. It is vital to have the right people in place to maximize every customer opportunity. There’s no reason to have "B" and "C" players on staff when "A" players are out there looking for work.

Keep your team sharp by providing ongoing, high-quality training, including the Powersports Dealer Update Workshops held in conjunction with the 2010 SEMA Show, November 1–2, in Las Vegas. Dealer Update Workshops at the 2010 SEMA Show are open to all powersports dealers. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to receive high-level training from industry experts.

Eight powersports dealer-specific education workshops will cover essential P&A, F&I, sales, service and dealership management topics. Registration also includes two industry keynote speaker lunches and a special state-of-the-industry powersports panel you can't afford to miss.

Register Now!

Advanced registration*: $99 by October 17, 2010
Onsite registration*: $149 after October 17, 2010
*Includes lunch. Does not include required $25 SEMA Show registration fee due October 17, 2010 ($75 after October 17, 2010).

For more information, visit www.SEMAShow.com/PowersportsDealerUpdate.

	The Hot Rod Industry Alliance, a SEMA council, will award its inaugural HRIA Cup to the top builder in this summer's Pinewood Drag Races.

On Saturday, July 24, some of the industry's best hot-rod builders will square off in a one-of-a-kind race. More than 20 well-known rodders are designing and building their own pinewood cars for the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pasadena, California.

And the only design limits for these builders are their own imaginations and creativity.

One car builder will receive the inaugural "HRIA Cup,” awarded by the Hot Rod Industry Alliance, along with bragging rights for the next year. Additionally, one car will win a “Best Design” award.

All of the custom-designed pinewood cars will be autographed by the builders and displayed at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. SEMA members may also bid on the cars in a silent auction to raise money for Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

And just like all racing, these cars need sponsors. What better way to help kids in need and highlight your company than by sponsoring a car or even a team of cars? For less than $100, you can sponsor a dragster built by the children of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. You'll also have a "driver" assigned to race the car on your behalf if you're unable to attend the races on July 24.

To sponsor a car or team, follow this link.

The Pinewood Drag Races are just one of the fundraising activities planned in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, July 23–24, at the Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena, California.

	The 2010 Dealer Day Conference will feature an operations panel to provide insight into the challenges confronting dealers.

Vehicle dealers attending the 2010 Dealer Day Conference, Wednesday, November 3, 2010 from 8:30 a.m.–1:45 p.m., at the Las Vegas Convention Center, will learn what others in the industry are doing and what works best given their business model.

This year’s Dealer Day will focus on accessory integration, sales and profit and will also provide participants with a “how-to” manual that outlines best practices and guidelines for dealer accessory programs.

A key component to this year’s Dealer Day will be an operations panel consisting of a dealer principal or general manager, a service manager, a parts manager, a new- and used-car sales manager, an office manager and a finance manager.

Questions will be asked from the perspective of an experienced accessory manager. This diverse panel will provide insight into the inner workings and challenges confronting every dealer.

There are generally four basic approaches to operating an accessory program within a dealer:

• Third Party: An outside company facilitates the entire operation and is responsible for inventory, installation, spiffs and management. The dealer benefits from this method through a rebate program and has minimum risk.

• Dedicated In-House: The dealer assumes all responsibility and controls the entire scope of operations. There is a dedicated accessory manager who facilitates all sales and service. All expenses (installations, inventory, labor, pay-roll, insurance) are born by the dealer. Also, the tire department usually falls under the umbrella of the accessory department. These programs generally offer a higher return on investment but also carry increased liability and the potential for obsolete and bloated inventory levels.

• Parts: The parts department acts a liaison between the front and back end and is responsible for ordering accessories. Installation methods vary.

• Get-Ready Manager: The get-ready manager coordinates accessory sales between sales, service and parts. He or she basically schedules installations. The scope of responsibility may vary, but this person is generally controlled through the sales department and ensures that any “we-owe/due-bill” work owed to the new- or used-car customer is completed.

The dealer approach is often determined by the following factors:

• Size and volume of dealer
• Car lines offered
• Shop capacity

Regardless of the chosen approach, success dictates that the dealer have a clear vision of the products and services they want to offer, create functional policies around that vision and then firmly commit to said approach.

Advanced registration**: $99 by October 17, 2010
Onsite registration**: $149 after October 17, 2010

** Includes lunch. Does NOT include required SEMA Show registration of $25 by October 17, 2010, or $75 after October 17, 2010.

Click here to register for the 2010 SEMA Show.

	The Society of Collision Repair Specialists' Repairer Driven Education series will help industry professionals to find growth opportunities for their businesses.

The Paint, Body & Equipment section of the 2010 SEMA Show continues to grow, as exhibitors and attendees from the collision-repair industry register for the event. In addition to the array of exhibits, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) is showcasing the collision industry’s presence with the Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, featuring industry experts who will help collision-repair professionals find growth opportunities for their businesses.

With both the SEMA Show and RDE already generating strong interest, SCRS has announced another incentive for early registration. Everyone who registers for the RDE series prior to August 31 will be entered into a drawing to win a complimentary hotel suite at the Las Vegas Hilton, the SCRS headquarters hotel, during the week of the SEMA Show.

The winner of the lodging giveaway will be contacted in September and an announcement will be made to the industry.

“[RDE] provides a unique opportunity to interact with repairers and share helpful information to assist in improving and growing their business," said Kristen Felder, instructor of “Social Networking 101” and founder of Collision Hub. "In addition, there will be a wealth of related industries that will allow me to explore and expand my own knowledge base."

John Webb, instructor of “Why Quirky Customers Are Your Most Valuable Resources” and senior vice president of marketing for CSi Complete, agrees.

“The SEMA Show is a fantastic, product-driven event. It’s great that they are showing increased interest in the PBE section because, with that, I believe they will get an increased focus on the service side of business, which is increasingly important in tighter economic and competitive environments.”

Attending the SEMA Show and the SCRS educational offerings is about more than just getting out of your shop for a few days to explore the industry’s offerings in Las Vegas; it is really about survival and learning to prosper in the marketplace.

"In these tough economic times, shop owners need to know as much as they can about capturing each job and diversifying their business to create more work," adds Patrick McGuire, instructor of “Steering: Legal and Practical Approaches to the Problem” and general counsel for Gator Customs.

To register for the SEMA Show and SCRS’ RDE Series prior to August 31, 2010, and be entered into the drawing for the hotel suite giveaway, or to get more information about the events, visit www.SEMAShow.com/scrs or contact SCRS at info@scrs.com.

SEMA has scheduled a Measuring Session for the 2011 Scion tC compact. The registration deadline is Friday, June 4. Sessions are limited to 60 minutes—no more than three companies at one time—two persons per company. Follow this link for additional information, or contact Bill Wolf.

	Titan Motorsports started as a Toyota Supra specialist tuner, a niche focus that paid off with that car's exposure in the first The Fast & The Furious movie.

The days of having to compete solely against the brick-and-mortar shop across the street are long gone. As Internet-only businesses sprout up in bedrooms and storage units across the country, anyone with a computer and a dream can now become a competitor in a matter of a few search clicks.

With the price of entry to start a parts business becoming lower each day, the importance of differentiating yourself from the competition becomes a necessity.

How are you supposed to compete with an Internet-only competitor offering the same products online at a lower price among a sea of other websites offering the same product? The quick answer: find your niche and drive your business around it.

Customers are often looking for an expert to answer the burning questions that cannot be answered by a database or part-number-only-driven website. Sharing your knowledge and expertise on a subject is the easiest way to gain trust in the marketplace and help build a customer base for life.

We were fortunate to find our niche early on. Titan Motorsports was originally founded as an outlet for our owner Nero to help fund his growing addiction to racing his '94 Toyota Supra. Toyota discontinued the Supra in the United States in 1998 as a result of poor sales. Its over-engineered 2JZ engine made it a hit with enthusiasts and tuners worldwide, however.

In 2001, Hollywood released the blockbuster movie The Fast and the Furious, which featured the Supra as its hero car. With a new breed of enthusiast racing to theatres to see the movie, we watched our niche market for Supra parts explode overnight.

Suddenly people who had never considered purchasing a Supra prior to the movie were calling wanting complete cars built. As demand increased, we were able to increase our inventory counts and use the additional volume to develop exclusive contracts with our suppliers on Supra-specific parts. Some 10 years later, sourcing replacement and performance parts for this platform remains a large part of our day-to-day operations.

Focusing on a niche is a great way to differentiate yourself from your competition. It can, however, also leave you vulnerable to trends, fads and sharp shifts in the general market place. As a result of these shifts, it's a great idea to develop parallel markets around your niche to further increase sales and provide an additional growth platform.

In our particular case, we used our knowledge of turbocharging developed from the 2JZ engine platform and expanded it to other turbo vehicles. While the engines themselves were different, the turbochargers and supporting parts remained universal. We were soon shipping intercooler cores, blow-off valves and boost controllers across the world and continue to do so today.

So, how can you take this example and apply it to your business? Examine your existing profit centers and focus on the areas where you already excel. Expand on areas where you’ve already proven superiority; this will prove much easier than changing your entire business model in search of growth.

Keep a close eye on your competitors and emerging trends, but stick to your roots in the market place to maintain your competitive edge. With a clear product focus and game plan, you can place yourself in front of the competition. —Baadal Deliwala, Titan Motorsports

Money has been tight for more than two years. Small businesses were especially hard hit by the recession that began late in 2007, with some estimates indicating that companies suffered sales losses ranging from 10% to 40% or more. The resulting constriction resulted in layoffs, cutbacks, inventory reductions and consolidations that made a bad situation even worse for businesses that were on the bubble between solvency and bankruptcy. Some did not survive. [Read more]

Hacking, once the province of teenage boys spreading graffiti for kicks and notoriety, is done today by organized, financially motivated gangs, said researchers of "Security Threat Report: 2010," an extremely in-depth look at the evolution of the web's criminal element. The report was recently published by cyber security firm Sophos. [Read more]

Your website is the face of your company for millions of Internet users, so design and functionality can make or break your web enterprise. A knowledgeable web designer can help lead customers to your site and make it easy for them to find your products. Learn how to choose the ideal team by tuning in to SEMA’s exclusive new webinar: “How to Select and Prepare for a Web Designer.”

On Thursday, June 3, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) industry expert Luanne Brown will provide a roadmap that can guide you to the right designer through understanding the products and services available. The session will focus on selecting the right team to help build the ultimate website program for your company, emphasizing experience, budget and expertise in using aftermarket-critical ACES and PIES data.

Luanne Brown is president and CEO of eTool Developers, an Internet marketing company that provides website development, eCommerce and learning-centered online tools to the automotive aftermarket. Brown is a member of the SEMA Board of Directors and is an active member of the Light Truck Accessory Alliance, the Performance Warehouse Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association. She was honored with the 2007 Athena Award from the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network.

Participate live or download the webinar when it’s convenient. Simply visit www.SEMA.org/events/webinars to register and take advantage of this informative session. It’s free to SEMA members and only $29 for non-members.

Spy photographer Brenda Priddy and her network of shooters caught these photos of an undisguised 2012 Aston Martin DB9 prototype out testing. Says Priddy: “The boys in Gaydon [England] are just finishing up work on a freshened Vantage V8, so that can only mean one thing: time to go to work on the DB. We can see that the DB9 will get a new lower front fascia and more aggressive hood in front. In back is a reworked lower fascia with a new air diffuser. It also appears that the trunk lid spoiler is now taller compared to the current model.” Priddy also speculates that the interior will receive an update along with modest powertrain tweaks.

 

 

 

Photos copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without copyright holder's consent is prohibited.

At the 2009 SEMA Show, 10,603 buyers filled the aisles looking for the latest mobile electronics products and innovations. To satisfy their appetites, 102 exhibitors in the mobile electronics section turned attendees on to the newest gadgets driving the custom audio, video and portable infotainment accessories industry. Buyers were clearly interested in grabbing information on the latest technologies and accessories, scanning the barcodes of mobile electronics products registered in the New Products Showcase more than 4,500 times during the Show. [Read more]

Just months after establishing mileage and emissions standards for model year (MY) 2012–2016 cars and light trucks, the Obama Administration has begun work on even stronger rules for 2017 and beyond. Last week, President Obama directed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce emissions of conventional pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides. The president also instructed regulators to establish fuel economy and carbon dioxide (CO2) standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks for the first time beginning in MY 2014.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is also pursuing CO2 standards for MY 2017–2025 cars and trucks. CARB intends to coordinate its action with the EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), along with the automakers and other stakeholders, with the goal of setting a single national standard.

Last April, the EPA and NHTSA completed action on Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards and CO2 emissions standards for light-duty vehicles through MY 2016. The two issues are related since CO2 is released in direct proportion to the amount of carbon-based fuel that is burned. The action matched the CO2 standards previously adopted by California, and recognized that state’s authority to establish its own CO2 standards in the future.

The automakers participated in formulating the SEMA-supported rules since it provided a national approach to regulating CO2 emissions rather than a patchwork of state rules.

Federal regulators intend to issue a “game plan” for MY 2017–2025 light-duty vehicles by September 2010 and adopt a final rule by mid-2012. CARB officials want to complete action on the CO2 standards by the end of 2010.

Questions may be directed to Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

Effective June 15, 2010, employers are required to notify their workers when there is any hexavalent chromium present in the workplace, even when it is below the permissible exposure limit (PEL). In the past, companies only had to inform employees when exposures exceeded the PEL. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) changed its rule in response to a lawsuit and U.S. Appeals Court directive.

Under the previous rule, companies were directed to monitor employee exposure and notify affected workers when levels exceeded the permissible level of five micrograms per cubic meter of air over an eight-hour, time-weighted average. Employers are required to perform periodic monitoring at least every six months if initial monitoring shows exposure at or above the action level (2.5 micrograms per cubic meter of air).

Hexavalent chromium is a naturally occurring heavy metal frequently used in paints, electroplating or as an anti-corrosion agent for metals such as stainless steel. Exposure can occur when workers spray paints containing chromates, operate chrome-plating baths or weld/cut metals containing chromium. OSHA contends the toxic chemical may irritate or damage the skin, eyes and respiratory tract, among other concerns. OSHA has established a webpage on the topic.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a streamlined process for manufacturers for approving fuel conversion systems. The conversion systems allow light- and heavy-duty vehicles to run on alternative fuels (natural gas, propane, alcohol, electricity, etc.) while complying with Clean Air Act emissions standards. The EPA would establish a three-tiered compliance process based on the age of the vehicle.

Under the current one-size-fits-all approach, a certificate of conformity demonstrating emissions compliance must cover the vehicle and engine conversion system. The proposed rule would require a certificate only for newer vehicles (less than two years old). Conversion system manufacturers would need to perform certification tests to demonstrate the vehicle complies with exhaust and evaporative emissions standards as well as with on-board diagnostic requirements, but manufacturers could then apply a single set of test data to more vehicle and engine conversions than is currently allowed.

To certify alternative-fuel conversions for intermediate-age engines (more than two years old but still within their useful life), manufacturers would need to perform exhaust and evaporative emissions tests to demonstrate compliance with EPA standards and then forward that test data to the EPA with a statement that the OBD system will continue to operate properly after the conversion.

For vehicles that have outlived their useful life, the EPA intends to pick one of the following three options: 1) require conversion manufacturers to submit a detailed description of the conversion technology to demonstrate that it is well-engineered and should work, 2) conduct the same emissions testing as for the intermediate age vehicles or 3) submit the option one description along with an OBD diagnostic scan report.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

	Luxury imports, such as the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan, are extremely popular in China.

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.

SEMA members can connect with Chinese companies through face-to-face meetings with distributors at the conference. Participating SEMA members will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings.

Among the performance-enhancing products that Chinese buyers seek include ECU-related products, from upgrades to high-end tuning software, and exhaust systems for BMW and Mercedes-Benz vehicles. And as China lacks domestic companies able to produce suspensions that meet the demands of serious off-road enthusiasts, suspension products also are high on Chinese distributor wish lists.

The BMW 7-Series sedan and X-5 SUV are popular models. In 2009, sales of BMW light vehicles rose 39% over the previous year to more than 85,600 units, according to J.D. Power and Associates. Distributors also seek wheels, tires and aero kits for a wide range of vehicles.

China is also the world's largest market for the imported Mercedes Benz S-Class sedan. The C-Class and a special stretch version of the E-Class are produced in China, as are several Mercedes commercial vans. In 2009, more than 62,800 Mercedes-brand vehicles were sold in China.

China is awash in Jeeps because Chrysler produced the Grand Cherokee there until late 2005 and the Cherokee until 2007. Chrysler continues to import the Grand Cherokee, Commander, Compass and Wrangler. Since Fiat purchased Chrysler, the Fiat-Guangzhou Auto joint venture in southern China will reportedly begin production of Jeep models again, starting with the Compass. Off-road accessories, moderately priced ancillary lights for Jeeps, interior and exterior decoration and suspension products are on many distributor wish lists.

Some distributors are eager to learn what the top international brands are and introduce them to the China market. Introduce your products to these Chinese companies at the SEMA-CIAPE China business development conference.

For more information, contact lindas@sema.org or visit www.sema.org/china.

PENSKE POWER: It was a good day Saturday for Roger Penske. Helio Castroneves earned Penske’s 16th pole as an owner for the Indianapolis 500 early in the day, and Kurt Busch captured Penske’s second NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race that night at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

BUMPED: Despite crashing twice, Tony Kanaan bumped his way into the Indianapolis 500 Sunday. Among those missing the race were Paul Tracy and Jay Howard, who withdrew speeds fast enough to make the race in an attempt to go faster, only to go slower and miss the race.

STICKING AROUND: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series point-leader Kevin Harvick has signed a contract extension and will stay with Richard Childress Racing for the foreseeable future.

U.S. GP TO RURAL N.Y.? The Monticello Motor Club, located in the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York, is in talks to bring Formula One back to the United States.

DISMISSED: U.S. District Court Judge Graham C. Mullen dismissed Jeremy Mayfield’s lawsuit against NASCAR May 18, saying Mayfield had not met his burden of proof. Mayfield was suspended by NASCAR in May 2009 for violating its substance abuse policy, but he sued saying a prescription drug created a false positive.

SITTING OUT: Brian Vickers will miss the remainder of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season as he recovers from blood clots found in his left leg and both lungs.

SOLAR PROJECT: Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, has begun construction on a new solar energy system that will become the primary energy source for the raceway.

CLOSED: Midway Speedway, located in Crooksville, Ohio, has closed its doors effective May 19.

WELCOME TO THE HALL: The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina , welcomed its first class of inductees Sunday afternoon. Richard Petty, Junior Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Bill France Sr. and Bill France Jr. became the first individuals enshrined in the facility.

SUBSCRIBE: National Speed Sport News has been published weekly since 1934. To subscribe to National Speed Sport News, click here for a special industry rate.

	Robert Hight drove his Auto Club Ford Mustang to his third-consecutive victory of the season Sunday at the O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Summer Nationals.

NEWS NUGGETS

HIGHT WINS THIRD IN A ROW; SCHUMACHER WINS 100TH FOR ARMY IN TOPEKA: Robert Hight drove his Auto Club Ford Mustang to his third consecutive victory of the season Sunday at the O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Summer Nationals at Heartland Park Topeka. The win marks the first time that Hight has ever won three in a row and moved the driver past teammate Ashley Force Hood to take the second position in the point standings, just 49 points behind leader and teammate, John Force.

“This is stuff you dream about,” said Hight. “I’d never won more than three races in a season, so to come out here and win three in a row and win from the pole, that’s tough to do; not many guys do that. We went down the track convincingly all weekend long in the heat, and what’s cool about it is that it’s safe. [Crew chief] Jimmy [Prock] is tweaking and making changes, and the car is responding. But there are eight other guys on this team that are putting that thing together perfectly every single run and not making any mistakes.”

Hight was joined in the Winners Circle by Top Fuel pilot and defending world champion Tony Schumacher. Though it was Schumacher’s 64th win, it was his first at Heartland Park Topeka, leaving Atlanta Dragway as the only track on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing circuit where Schumacher has not won a race. It also marked the 100th drag racing win for the U.S. Army, dating back to the days when Don “The Snake” Prudhomme raced under the Army banner.

“We needed to get (Topeka) off the list,” said Schumacher. “It’s been a great career, but there were two tracks I hadn’t won at—here and Atlanta. I’ve got Atlanta left, and I’ve still got time in my career to go out and do that. I enjoy those big moments, where you have to really pull something off, and that’s what we had today. Cory (McClenathan) is a great driver and he gave us a great race. We knew it was going to be just inches no matter what.”

Pro Stock world champion Mike Edwards was also victorious at Heartland Park Topeka, racing to his fifth win of the season and second at the track.

“It’s been a while since our last win in Topeka (1999), although we were runner-up to Allen Johnson last year,” said Edwards. “But what made this weekend so special was the fact that my parents, A.C. and Gladys, were here to see the win. They’ve never been to any of the races that I’ve won before, and you can’t believe how much it means to me for them to see this one.”

For more results from the O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Summer Nationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

INDIANAPOLIS NHRA UNLEASHED TICKETS AND RACER REGISTRATION ON SALE MAY 29: Spectator tickets and racer registration for the highly anticipated NHRA Unleashed event in Indianapolis will go on sale to the general public on Saturday, May 29. NHRA Unleashed is a celebration of pure American horsepower and will make its inaugural stop at O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis on August 6–8. Tickets for NHRA Unleashed will go on sale at 10 a.m. (EST) and can be purchased by visiting NHRA.com and clicking on the NHRA Unleashed logo box. Spectator tickets will also be available the day of the event at the gate.

NHRA Unleashed tickets are $10 for adults on Friday and $20 for Saturday and Sunday. A three-day pass is $40, and a Saturday–Sunday pass is $35. Tickets for children 6–12 are $5 for one day, or a three-day ticket is $10. Children 5 and under are free.

Racer registration for all racing classes that will be showcased at the NHRA Unleashed events will open the same time spectator tickets go on sale. Only a limited amount of entries per category are available, so all participants are encouraged to register early. Racer entries can also be purchased through the NHRA Unleashed section of NHRA.com. Two half-hour shows will be produced from each of the four NHRA Unleashed events, including the event at O’Reilly Raceway Park. Shows will also be produced from the events at Atlanta Dragway in Atlanta (June 11–13), National Trail Raceway near Columbus, Ohio (September 10–12), and Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville (November 5–7).

For more information, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

UNITED ASSOCIATION ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, June 3–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the Windy City in the Chicago metro area for the 10th event on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Matt Guidera (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, June 10–13: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to the East Coast just outside of New York City for the 11th stop on the 2010 schedule. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Tony Pedregon (Funny Car); Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock); and Craig Treble (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS, BRISTOL DRAGWAY, June 18-20: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series returns to the Thunder Valley of north Tennessee. Defending event winners include Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel); Del Worsham (Funny Car); and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock).

 

Jim Head's supercharger exposion in Topeka.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

ONE WILD RIDE: Funny Car driver Jim Head on his supercharger explosion in Topeka:

“Zero vision. I thought the body was on the car, I had no idea. I thought the body was on the car, and I was really wishing the fire would go out. That was starting to get a bit hot. Not a burn to me, not an injury to me. It’s a real testament to those race cars.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

364: The number of points Funny Car driver and defending world champion Robert Hight has collected in the past three races, all of which he won. Before that time, Hight had only collected 315 points in the first six races of the season.

DID YOU KNOW…

…that after a two-week, one-race break, the Pro Stock Motorcycle class will return to action at the United Association Route 66 NHRA Nationals, June 3–6 at Route 66 Raceway near Chicago. Former world champion Andrew Hines hopes to continue the success he had in Atlanta and grab his third win of the season, but points leader and defending world champion Hector “The Hammer” Arana is hungry and still looking for his first win of the season.

	Paul Fessel

Firestone Industrial Products Company LLC promoted Paul Fessel to division manager of Light Duty Business. In his role, Fessel will lead the company's complete line of suspension solution products, which include Ride-Rite, Sport-Rite, Coil-Rite and Level-Rite air helper springs, and he will oversee development of Firestone's latest product offerings. Fessel has been with Firestone for 16 years, previously serving as project engineer for Ride-Rite sales; applications engineer and senior sales engineer for OE sales; China business development manager; and automotive OE sales manager.

Wes-Coast Marketing Inc. has teamed up with Power Tank (Advanced Air Systems) to represent the company in the 13 western states and western Canada. According to Wes-Coast marketing, Power Tank, is the original high-performance C02 air system designed for off-road, 4x4, desert and sand use.

Steele Rubber Products was selected as BAM Racing’s “American Pride” company for the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 race at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 30. The Steele Rubber Products logo will appear on the cars of BAM drivers, Robby Gordon and David Gilliland. BAM Racing, from Charlotte, North Carolina, is honoring great American companies and organizations during the 2010 racing season. Owned by Beth Ann Morgenthau, BAM Racing began in 2002 as a single-car team positioned against the much larger multi-car teams. In addition to producing restoration rubber parts and weatherstripping for American-made cars, trucks and street rods, Steele Rubber Products provides a line of spring rubbers to all levels of stock car racing.

Michael Santa Cruz

Michael Santa Cruz joined ProMedia LLC—producers of the NMRA Keystone Automotive Ford Nationals and the NMCA Edelbrock Muscle Car Nationals—as its sponsorship sales manager. Santa Cruz started in the automotive performance industry in 1986 with SCCA Pro Road Race team, Ford-sponsored Kaufmann Racing. Before joining ProMedia, Santa Cruz worked with several southern California performance automotive companies, including Eibach Springs, Petersen Publishing, Tokico and Magnaflow Exhaust. He will assist the NMRA and NMCA series with development of additional contingency sponsors to support their vibrant race programs and will spearhead all-new class sponsorship opportunities for potential car show sponsors.

Effective June 1, Strictly Diesel and Sinister Diesel (formerly ITP Diesel) are joining forces to elevate their nationwide product and service offerings. The new partnership puts two previously independent companies together as one. The companies also announced their new 15,000 sq.-ft. facility, which is set to open officially on June 1, located at 621 West Lone Cactus Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85027. The new facility has more bays for completing maintenance and repair work, more parking for customer vehicles and more space to store products used for service, repair and maintenance. This facility also provides more space for aftermarket product inventory and new-product development work.

	The Hotchkis family competed in the autocross challenge at the Goodguys Orange County Get Together Street Challenge Autocross.

Hotchkis Sport Suspension equipped cars took home gold in the participant, vendor and truck classes at the Goodguys Orange County Get Together Street Challenge Autocross. The Hotchkis family—a team of more than a dozen customer cars from all over California and Colorado—competed in the autocross throughout the two-day event, including several Mopars, new and old Camaros, Chevelles, a pair of C10 pickups and more. Hotchkis chief engineer Aaron Ogawa drove the E-Max '70 Challenger to a first place finish in the vendor class with a time of 29.32. He was joined on the podium by Mike Hickman, who ran a 32.01 in his '67 Chevy C-10 in the truck class and Mary Pozzi, who pulled off a stunning 28.73 in her '72 Camaro. Both vehicles are equipped with Hotchkis Total Vehicle Systems. This year's Costa Mesa Street Challenge Autocross had more than 60 entrants and more than a dozen were Hotchkis customer cars. Dick Etchison came all the way from Colorado in his four-door '65 Chevelle. Dan Weishaar lopped nearly six seconds off his '68 Plymouth Roadrunner's lap times from the Del Mar GG event with new wheels and tires and lots of practice at local SCCA events. Trish and Rob Byrd's Hotchkis-equipped 2010 Camaro became the first 5th Gen to run a Goodguys Autocross and Shannon Hudson drove his TVS-equipped '69 Valiant.

The cool dude in the hat and shades driving Jamie Musselman's '33 roadster is Boyd Coddington. Rolling alongside is Lee Kelley, then editor of Hot Rod magazine, in a Contemporary Classics Cobra replica. The photo was taken for the magazine's July 1982 cover, the first of many to feature Boyd and his custom creations.

For more, read "Smooth" in the May issue of SEMA News.  

Visit PRO's website.

Getting Involved With PRO

PRO is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive specialty-equipment industry and to developing effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues.

Take the First Step, Get Involved…

Ask yourself these two questions: 1) Am I getting the most out of my business? 2) What can I do to support my industry?

Let SEMA and PRO help. Through a community of knowledge and activism, PRO can help support your business and our industry through three primary vehicles:

• Voice in the Industry. As a member of PRO you will have an opportunity to raise industry concerns and challenges to a committee and organization that not only has the desire, but also the resources to promote short and long-term initiatives that can benefit us all.


• Professional Development. PRO provides to its members, free of charge, the "PRO Sales Training Manual" and the "PRO Business Development Guidebook." These tools offer invaluable insight and strategies that will have an immediate impact on your day-to-day business operations. PRO’s Installer Certification Program, ProPledge Assurance Program, and the Technical Skills & Training Conference (TSTC) are fundamental building blocks which help installers/restylers gain the valuable training and recognition needed to succeed in today’s market place.


• Networking. Creating an expansive support system is critical to the success of any business. The PRO networking philosophy is to bring together individual’s who share a common interest and passion. PRO’s premier networking function is Novemberfest and is held annually at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The buzz surrounding Novemberfest was huge in 2009, and this year’s event should see close to 300 people and will provide the backdrop for friendships to be renewed and business relationships to be fostered.

To get involved and join a worthy cause, visit www.sema.org/pro or contact Zane Clark at zanec@sema.org.

PRO Is on a Roll…

Following the wildly successful NovemberFest Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show, PRO has come through again with the launch of the Technical Skills & Training Conference (TSTC) that took place on April 30 on the University of Northwestern Ohio campus in Lima, Ohio.

These events are the direct result of a dedicated and committed council that continually pushes the envelope in order to better serve its members.

SEMA would like to recognize the PRO TSTC Task Force and manufacturers/presenters for their effort and vision.

Task Force: David Stringer, B.J. Leanse, Karl Stearns, Eldon Bracken, Bill North, Jerry Redding, Jerry Schnetzer, Jim Skelly, Ray Ott, Joey Johnston, Jason Braun and Doug Perez.

Manufacturers: Audiovox, Donmar, Eagle Enterprises, Katzkin, Restylers Choice, Superchips, Webasto, ProPledge, Curt Manufacturing, Check Corporation and Artlux Inc.

Here’s what people are saying:

“TSTC far exceeded our expectations, and we are looking forward to more opportunities to help educate and train our industry.” — Lane Carter, Restylers Choice

“We would like to thank the SEMA PRO council for giving the University the privilege of hosting their inaugural TSTC conference on our campus. The university believes that to serve our industry, we must be one with our industry and hosting conferences or training on our site is part of being connected for our faculty and also for our students who are forming their views and expectations of our industry and who else to better those visions and expectations than SEMA and its councils.” — Tom Grothous, UNOH Dean, College of Technolgies

“TSTC offered a great venue to provide hands-on training to a group of aftermarket accessory technicians as well as an opportunity to introduce our industry to automotive vocational college students who might consider accessories as a career path. DONMAR looks forward to the next event.” — Marc Levinson, DONMAR Sunroofs and Accessories

“I found the TSTC event to be both educational and inspiring. I operate a “cut n’ sew” automotive trim/upholstery shop but am always looking for related ways to diversify my business. I personally got the opportunity to install my first sunroof—complete from start to finish—while at the event. This is something that I probably never would have just tried on my own. Now we are looking to add this service within our business offerings.
As always, it’s also great to rub elbows with some of the most influential individuals in the industry. Just having the opportunity to chat with other successful business owners, installers and manufacturers keeps me fueled to try new and innovative things. These are just a few of the reasons why this is a must attend event for all restylers in the future.”
— Adam D. Howard, No Joke Upholstery

PRO Chair Karl Stearns added, “I am extremely proud of the work that was done by the task force and express my appreciation to Tom Grothous for his enthusiasm and support, the manufacturers for their vision and the restylers for their commitment.”

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? PRO Is!

Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit ARMO's website.

Collector Car Appreciation Day Grows—Check for Events in Your Town

The United States Senate recently passed Senate Resolution 513 at the request of SEMA and ARMO, designating Friday, July 9, 2010 as Collector Car Appreciation Day. The day is meant to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. Four events recently have been added in California, Kansas, Michigan and Washington.

To help collector car enthusiasts celebrate, ARMO is compiling a list of events happening around the country on July 9, 2010. But, we need your help!

If you are attending, promoting or know of any car shows, cruises, etc. that are scheduled for Friday, July 9, please forward any information to ARMO, c/o Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org. It doesn’t matter how big or small the event is, we want to know about it! At press time, the following events are being listed as part of this historic day.

CALIFORNIA:

Egge Machine and Speed Shop, Sante Fe Springs, CA, July 9, 2010*
*Post a photo or video on Egge’s Facebook page and the top 5 posts with the most comments will win a $100 Egge Machine and Speed Shop gift certificate!

Sid Waterman Classic Auto and Art Show, Gualala, CA, July 9–Aug 1*
*In celebration of Collector Car Appreciation Day, the Gualala Arts Center pushed the opening of the Art Show a week earlier than originally planned!

Hot San Jose Nights, San Jose, CA, July 9–11

Ruby’s Cruise at the Beach, Redondo Beach, CA, July 9 (and every Friday March through October)

Cruisin’ Grand, Escondido, CA, July 9 (and every Friday April through September)

Ruby’s Cruise, Whittier, CA, July 9 (and every Friday May through October)

Auburn Cruise Night, Auburn, CA, July 9 (and every 2nd Friday through Sept) 5-10 pm

KANSAS:

Collector Car Cruise-in Show, Wichita, KS, July 9 (and every Friday) West Street and Central, 5-10 p.m. Contact Frank Upton at 316/371-3000 or frank@motorntv.com

MARYLAND:

Lowes Cruise, Bel Air, MD, July 9, 2010 (and every Friday, weather permitting)

MICHIGAN:

Be Cool Cruise-in and Car Show, Essexville/Bay City, MI, July 9–10

NEW YORK:

Northern Chevelle Gathering, Grand Island, NY, July 9–11

OHIO:

Goodguys PPG Nationals, Columbus, OH, July 9–11, 2010

PENNSYLVANIA:

Carlisle All Chrysler Nationals, Carlisle, PA, July 9–11, 2010

York Reunion and Nostalgia Nationals, York, PA, July 9–10, 2010

TENNESSEE:

Music City Chevy Show, Nashville, TN, July 8–11

UTAH:

Northern Reality Cruise Night, Layton, UT, July 9
Contact 801/682-8330
Northern Reality

July Jamboree Car Show, Cedar City, UT, July 9–10

Bo Huff’s Rockabilly Car Show, East Carbon, UT

WASHINGTON:

Collector Car Appreciation Day Cruise-In, Olympia, WA, July 9, Corvette & High Performance on Lake Blvd, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Contact Larry Johnson at 360/754-7890 or at lwjohnson@corv.hp.com

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ARMO Is!

Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit HRIA's website

2010 HRIA Education Day a Huge Success

Working in conjunction with the 12th Annual Hotrod & Restoration trade show in Indianapolis, HRIA-member companies are provided a platform to educate and train dealers on the specifics of their products and key selling points. Dealers are better at selling products they're more knowledgeable and comfortable with, resulting in higher sales and less returns.

This year’s Education Day boasted 40 seminars which were attended in record numbers. With more than 4,000 pre-registered for the event, it quickly sold out, creating a buzz within the industry. HRIA Education Day did not fail to deliver. The manufacturers represented a broad spectrum of industry experts and covered diverse and tangible subject matter. Manufacturers included GM, Meguiar’s, Flaming River Industries, Steele Rubber Products, Vintage Air Inc. and Classic Instruments. The all-day event included a hosted breakfast and attendees received a certificate of completion for each seminar they participated in.

As a SEMA council, HRIA is committed to the betterment of its members and promoting the industry as a whole. Events such as Education Day are made possible because passionate individuals volunteer their time and resources. An active and strong membership is critical in assuring that important initiatives such as education, youth awareness, and legislative issues are addressed and directed accordingly.

For more questions on Education Day or to get involved with HRIA, please contact Zane Clark at zanec@sema.org.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? HRIA Is!

Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit LTAA's website.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? LTAA Is!

Be sure to follow LTAA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/ltaa and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

LTAA Column in SEMA Member News

Read LTAA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about LTAA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MPMC's website.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!

Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page

The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook

. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting

MRC will host its annual Long-Range Planning meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Tuesday, September 28, 2010, from 6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All Reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open and interactive forum.

Participate in the meeting: Be part of the present—be part of the future—address issues faced daily by Reps in all segments of the automotive industry.

For meeting coordinators to be able to accommodate food and beverage, attendees are asked to take a moment and download the RSVP form, call 909/978-6693 or e-mail stacib@sema.org by September 15, 2010.

MRC Volunteer Opportunities

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the MRC?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by the members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to the challenges that member companies face and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their MRC efforts and for that we say “thank you” to those companies!

The leaders of the MRC gathered at the 2009 PWA Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, for its annual long-range planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the MRC-member companies. The last 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies, and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each MRC member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to provide market information, education and support to members concerning new and emerging trends. A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council for 2010. If you are passionate and have interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a Task Force with a limited investment of time, but provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the Task Force Chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Awards Task Force
Irv Cohen (SS Sales & Marketing) chairs this task force and can be reached at irvco@msn.com or you can contact the SEMA MRC Liaison, Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org. The Awards Task Force was formed to review the criteria for the MRC Hall of Fame and STAR Award (Sales Team Annual Recognition). The MRC Hall of Fame Award was designed to honor outstanding persons in the segment of the automotive industry known as manufacturers’ representatives. It is the most prestigious award presented by the council to dedicated individuals who enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to the manufacturers’ rep profession or the council’s growth. The MRC STAR Award will be presented to the most outstanding manufacturer’s sales team voted upon by the general membership of MRC.

Elections & Scholarship Task Force
The council chair-elect chairs this task force. The Elections Task Force reviews and approves the council nominations submitted, conduct interviews with perspective candidates and creates the final slate of candidates. The Scholarship Task Force creates the criteria and selects the recipient for the MRC sponsored SEMA scholarship.

Membership Task Force
Bunyan “Les” Rudd (Bob Cook Sales) chairs this task force and can be reached at lesrudd@bobcooksales.com or you can contact the SEMA MRC Liaison, Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org. The importance of knowing our members and what industry challenges each member is very important. The Membership Task Force was formed to enhance the value for the MRC member. The Membership Task Force is slated to research, identify and/or produce three new member cost-saving benefits, work to develop programs that enhance the professionalism of the rep industry, develop a plan to improve the value of becoming a member of the MRC and engage members at large to get involved with the MRC.

Rep Conference & LRP Task Force
Chris Fairless (Fairless Sales & Marketing) chairs this task force and can be reached at cfairless@FairlessSalesMarketing.com or you can contact the SEMA MRC Liaison, Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org. The Rep Conference Task Force researches and selects industry specific topics and speakers that would appeal to all manufacturers, WDs and reps. The LRP Task Force works closely with the MRC chairman, Membership Task Force chairman and SEMA staff liaison to develop long-range planning format and subject matter.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year, including host the annual MRC Rep Conference and General Membership Awards Ceremony at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, present industry awards to our manufacturers' rep colleagues and elect council leadership. Feel free to visit the MRC Rep Center at SEMA Show for more information on the council. You are the expert at what your business needs and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us, or come to one of our MRC events. Our hope is that if you haven’t been a part of MRC yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

MRC Rep Conference Coming to Vegas!!

The 9th annual MRC Rep Conference moves to Las Vegas at the 2010 SEMA Show. Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of the Manufacturers’ Agents National Association will host an open and interactive session titled “Survival of the Fittest! Is that You?” The Economy has Redefined the New Automotive Aftermarket…Now It’s Time to Redefine Yourself!

The MRC Rep Conference will convene at the Las Vegas Hilton on Sunday, October 31, 2010, from 4:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. The early-bird price for SEMA members is $49 ($69 for non-members). Online event registration is now available! For additional information, contact SEMA Council Liaison Staci Bostock at 909/978-6693 or stacib@sema.org.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRC is!

Be sure to follow MRC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-elect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

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Visit SBN's website.

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!

Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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Visit SPC's website.

The following is a message from SPC Chairman Tracie Nuñez:

Have you ever wondered what exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by the members of the council to serve a two-year term.

Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year and some volunteer even more. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their Street Performance Council (SPC) efforts, and for that we say, “thank you!"

The leaders of the SPC gathered together earlier this year at SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. This meeting focused on bringing value to the SPC-member companies and utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each SPC member. Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement “to provide market information, education and support to members concerning new and emerging trends.”

If you are passionate and have interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Membership Task Force
Ed “Blake” Burgy from Mr. Gasket chairs this task force and can be reached at eburgy@mrgasket.com. The importance of knowing our members and what industry challenges each member has is very important. The SPC membership task force is responsible for communicating directly with our members, keeping them up to date on SPC happenings and making sure that we are meeting their needs.

Communications Task Force
Baadal “Bottle” Deliwala from Titan Motorsports chairs this group and can be reached at bottle@titanmotorsports.com. Regular submissions to SEMA Member News and eNews will contain relevant street performance market information written or researched by the SPC council membership. If you want to contribute your ideas, drop an e-mail to Bottle. Better yet, draft an article on a topic pertinent to the mission and focus of the council and we’ll see that it gets published with your byline.

Research Task Force
Albert Reda from Vibrant Performance chairs this group and can be reached at areda@vibrantpower.com. Several key factors are changing significantly due to the economy: consumer buying habits, distribution channels and vehicles. The council has hosted several focus panels in the past with jobbers and consumers answering questions about current trends. The data is compiled and distributed to members, illustrating the differences between what is perceived as current buying trends and what is actually happening.

RASR (Racer’s Against Street Racing) Task Force
Regis Finn at B&M Racing and Performance Parts chairs the groups and can be reached at rfinn@bnracing.com. RASR is an SPC initiative that exists to provide leadership and support to promote the anti-street racing message. We need plenty of industry support and passion to reignite this message to our local communities.

Technology Task Force
Gigi Ho at Digital Performance chairs this group and can be reached at gigiho@digitalperformance.com. The Business Technology Symposium has been successfully developed and hosted by the SPC for the last three years as the Internet Symposium. The 2010 SPC Business Technology Symposium will be held on July 23, in Pasadena, California, as part of the 2010 SEMA Leadership Days with some very exciting educational sessions. The group will also define and develop relevant educational webinars and articles to help our members take advantage of new opportunities.

There are many other things the council leadership does throughout the year: host the annual SPC Mixer at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, present industry awards to our street-performance colleagues and elect council leadership. You are the expert at what your business needs, and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our SPC events. My hope is that if you haven’t been a part of SPC yet, you will be in 2010.

Find the Business Possibilities Through the SPC

Participate in the automotive aftermarket at a whole new level by joining the SPC.

The purpose of SEMA councils is to help our member companies succeed and prosper. In the SPC, our mission is to provide market information, education and support to our members concerning new and emerging trends. Whether it’s the latest business technology, forecasting sales, future marketing solutions or up and coming vehicle platforms, we give you and your company the chance to see what’s on the horizon.

Then we’ll help you understand and acquire the skills, tools and technologies to lead the way. The SPC has the most diverse membership of any SEMA council, and that will allow you to network with other professionals from every facet of our industry and gain insights into areas you may not have previously considered. Find out about the parts, people, technologies, strategies, trends and, most important, possibilities.

This is your chance to give something back to the industry, your profession and to grow personally along the way. Join the SPC today and become an active member of the specialty equipment and automotive market — Tracie Nuñez, Advanced Clutch Technology, SPC Chairman

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SPC is!

Be sure to follow SPC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/spc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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Visit WTC's website

Wheel and Tire Council Learning Track Goes Live…

WTC Special Edition of In-GEAR: Intro to Selling

Whether you are new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, this course has something for everyone.

This online learning tool focuses on three critical areas:

1. Introduction to the Industry
2. Effective Selling Techniques
3. Successful Customer Service

“Please take a look at our new training aid created to help all retail salespeople sell wheels easier and more effectively. The WTC has pooled information and past experience from all our Select Committee members with help from the SEMA Education Institute to create this program. If you can give the training program a small amount of time, you will be rewarded with a simple and effective process that will make selling AFTERMARKET WHEELS much easier and less time consuming.”
—Kelly Austin, WTC IPC/Advisor, Ultra Wheel Company

A) To Use:

1. Go to www.sema.org
2. Login to your account (upper right-hand corner).
3. Scroll over “Education” Tab on top of page.
4. Select “Online Learning Center (OLC).”
5. Once there, look to the lower left of the page and select “Wheel & Tire Council Learning Track,” and enjoy!

B) If you do not have an account:

1. Go to www.sema.org
2. Select the “Login” option located on the upper right of the page.
3. Once on the login page, select the “Register Now” option.
4. Create your SEMA profile (name, title, e-mail, city, state. password, company name).
5. A confirmation e-mail will be sent to the e-mail address provided.
6. Retrieve the e-mail, and select link provided; you will be re-directed to the SEMA page to login. Once there, input your username and password.
7. At this point, you can either create a SEMA profile or follow steps 3–5 of option “A.”

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? WTC is!

Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit YEN's website.

Join YEN

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!

Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

	Use SEMA's International Buyer's Guide to connect with buyers around the world.

The SEMA International Buyer's Guide is an easy way to expand your business to buyers around the world. An exclusive directory of exhibitors interested in growing their sales outside of the United States, the SEMA International Buyers' Guide is distributed to every international buyer attending the 2010 SEMA Show and throughout the year at international trade shows.

It will also be available at more than 50 U.S. embassies throughout the world, including offices in Germany, United Kingdom, Mexico, Japan, Australia, Italy, Brazil and South America, and from SEMA’s offices in China, Mexico and Europe.

To find out how to be included in this guide and for more information on all of SEMA’s international programs, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

	Collector Car Appreciation Day, July 8, 2011, is meant to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Councils announced July 8, 2011 as “Collector Car Appreciation Day.”  The date marks the second commemoration in what will become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.  SEMA and its councils are now working to secure a Congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance.

“Last year, the United States Senate helped launch the first national Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing Senate Resolution 513 at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald.  “As a result, thousands of Americans gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage.  As we move forward, SEMA’s commitment to preserving and promoting the automotive restoration industry through its projects and programs is evident in this special day.”

S. Res. 513 was sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus members Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC).  Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and the resolution reaffirmed their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars.  The Caucus is an informal, non-partisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever growing love affair with the car and motorsports.  The Caucus recognizes the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history.   

“On July 8, 2011, collectors and enthusiasts will host hundreds of events across the country,” said Laura Bergan, Chairman of SEMA’s Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Council.  “We will proudly partner with individuals, car clubs and businesses as they organize car cruises, club gatherings and other educational events to celebrate the day.”

Rick Love, Chairman-elect of SEMA’s Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Council said, “The industry endeavors to preserve our nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, high-skilled jobs nationwide.  Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to this industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.”

SEMA will maintain a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile.  Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Mike Dingell, Director, SEMA Action Network (SAN) at 202/783-6007, etc. 38 or miked@sema.org.  If you are unable to celebrate on July 8th, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July.

 

SEMA Show exhibitors: Generate more buzz for your company and its products at the 2010 SEMA Show by offering products to builders through the SEMA Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list.

From now until just days before the 2010 SEMA Show, the latest additions to this list are made available through SEMA eNews. Hundreds of builders access the list looking for the pieces to complete their builds. Product-placement opportunities such as this are so beneficial that many exhibitors offer products for free or at a greatly reduced rate.

To place your product on the list, send your company name, a brief product description, contact information and a website where the products can be viewed to eNews@sema.org and put “Product List” in the e-mail subject line.

Remember, builders will contact you directly, so make sure your contact information is accurate. New submissions will be included each week when available.

Brakes & Suspension Components

Hawk Performance: Hawk Performance's leading-edge brake pad friction technology is proven everyday in aerospace, military, commercial truck fleet, motorsports and performance street brake applications. Contact: Todd Miller, tmiller@wellmanproducts.com, 440/528-3216. Website: www.HawkPerformance.com. 

Engine/Underhood Components

ATS Diesel: Performance products for diesel trucks. Contact: Matt Bozarth, matt@atsdiesel.com, 866/408-7916. Website: www.atsdiesel.com/SEMA.

Eaton Aeroquip Performance: AQP and StartLite Hose fittings and adapters for hot rods, race cars, light trucks and musclecars. Contact: Beth Mooney, bethmmooney@eaton.com, 419/891-7619. Website: www.eaton.com/aeroquipperformance.   

Flowmaster Inc.: Complete exhaust systems and individual Flowmaster and Hushpower mufflers. Contact Cam Benty, cam.benty@flowmastermufflers.com, 707/694-1863.

ProCharger (ATI): Superchargers and complete intercooled supercharger systems. Contact Cary Pangrac, cpangrac@procharger.com. Website: www.procharger.com.

Exterior Products/Accessories

Al’s Liner Do-it-Yourself Coatings: Al’s Do-it-Yourself Bed Liner is an 86% solids content urethane/acrylic blend. The simple batch system allows users to apply in any color, texture or thickness and is ideal for automotive undercoating, interior sound deadening, trailer flooring and much more. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com, 800/999-6841. Website: www.alsliner.com.

BASF Refinish: A full range of waterborne and solvent-borne basecoat systems from Glasurit, R-M and Limco. Also a full line of custom products including Carizzma Colors, Foose Signature series, Flat Paint and Candy's. Contact: Brian Fox (Fox Marketing), brian@foxmarketing.net, 717/718-5505. Website: www.basfrefinish.com.

Bedslide: Bedslide cargo management system offers easy access to your truck, van or SUV's load. Contact David McInturf for qualification sheet and to discuss your plans. Contact: David McInturf, 888/807-0099 (toll free), 541/842-2771 (direct). Website: www.bedslide.com.

BOLT Series Locks: Padlocks, receiver locks, cable locks and spare tire locks that work with the vehicle's (GM, Ford, Chrysler or Jeep) key. Contact: Erika Garcia, ggarcia@strattec.com, 414/247-3552. Website: www.BOLTlock.com.

Eagle Enterprises Inc.: Striping and vinyl graphics. Contact: Wayne Casimir, 800/874-9564, 316/945-8500. Website: www.eagleict.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior plastic accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but are not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors and Bed Rail Caps. Contact: Butch Madigan, bmadigan@egrusa.com, 909/923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.  

RETRAX Truck Bed Covers: RETRAX retractable truck bed cover; silver RETRAX retractable truck bed cover. Contact: Andy Nephew, marketing@rolltopcover.com, 701/746-5596. Website: www.rolltopcover.com.

Interior Products/Accessories

Bedslide: Bedslide cargo management system offers easy access to the load in your truck, van or SUV. Contact David McInturf for a qualification sheet and to discuss your plans. Contact: David McInturf, 888/807-0099 (toll free), 541/842-2771 (direct). Website: www.bedslide.com.

NRG Innovations: The Gen 3—The newest edition to the quick release family. Making it even easier on the driver to be able to take off the steering wheel. Available colors: red, blue, green, gold, orange, gun metal, black and bronze. Website: www.getnrg.com.

Wheels & Tires

RealWheels Corp.: A complete billet and stainless steel trim kit for the 2010+ Chevy Camaro.  Includes shift knobs, pedals, grille, vent trim, fuel door, door sills and more. Contact: Jhan R. Dolphin jdolphin@realwheels.com, 847/662-7722.

Vossen Wheels: Vossen wheels. Contact: Jav Azadi, jav@vossenwheels.com. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.
 

A photo collection of Ferraris on display at the 2009 SEMA Show.   

Following are dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, webinars and activities. Click on an item for more details.

SEMA eNews highlights the websites of SEMA-member companies through the Hot Links to Cool Sites section each week. SEMA members: To be included in Hot Links to Cool Sites, e-mail your company name and website to enews@sema.org. Note: Make sure to include “Hot Links” in the subject line of the e-mail.

• Canton Racing Products 
• SP3 International 
• Shafer's Classic Reproductions Inc.  
• Spectra Chrome LLC  
• BedRug 
• Scrublade LLC 
• Marshall Motoart LLC 
• Hellwig Products 
• Wheel Consultants Inc. 
• Mutoh America Inc.

 

SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities (view all here). Working for a SEMA-member company has many advantages. In addition to working for a company that supports and contributes to the success of the overall industry, being employed by a SEMA-member company enables employees to participate in webinars, access free market research, join SEMA committees and more.