To comply with new safer at home ordinances, PRO leadership joined SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso via Skype video conferencing for a preliminary planning meeting on the 2020 PRO Cup Challenge at the beginning of this month.
Presented by the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), the first-ever SEMA PRO Cup Challenge kicked off at the 2019 SEMA Show to raise awareness and encourage the customization of new model cars and trucks for mainstream consumers. Through the challenge, four popular new model vehicles were customized by four competitors, in easy-to-replicate restyling packages that were quick (max 20 hours) and affordable (no more than $12,000).
Following the competition, PRO had five months to track and report 25 builds that were either inspired by or duplicated from of any one of the 2019 PRO Cup Challenge featured vehicles. To date, 67 builds from 14 retailers have been documented, qualifying the program to continue into a second year.
Space in the North Hall has been allocated to enable 6-8 vehicles to be displayed together at the 2020 SEMA Show, whereas last year’s vehicles were showcased separately. The PRO Cup Challenge task force is currently developing criteria and working with SEMA staff to plan this year’s application and submission process.
“The council is committed to helping the growth and prosperity of the restyling industry and its businesses,” said Council Director Denise Waddingham. “This PRO Cup Challenge does just that, and we are excited for the new models that be introduced into this year’s program.”
Additional updates will be released throughout the year. For the latest news and updates on the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization, visit www.sema.org/pro.