Brenda Priddy was the first to bring us quality (non-camera-phone) photos of Honda’s sporty Accord coupe, and now they have the very first pictures of the sedan!

According to Brenda Priddy & Company, with similar—but not identical shapes, and different textures (no honeycomb grille on these sedans)—it was easy to tell exactly what we were looking at in our rear-view mirror.

The new Accords will reach the production line this coming September or October, with the first shipments to dealers shortly afterwards.

Our sedans are likely all four-cylinders, but Honda has publicly talked about more horsepower, better fuel economy, cylinder deactivation and lower emissions for the V6-powered Accord—and although there’s no word from Honda, we’re anticipating a 3.5L V6 with about 270 hp, and a 180-hp 2.4L four-cylinder powerplant.

 

Brenda Priddy & Company

Filler for eNews

Filler for eNews

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investigating sales of “MIL eliminator devices” which can turn off the check engine light when O2 sensor readings are not operating properly.   Both the EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have been more aggressive in recent years in removing such products from the marketplace since they can easily be used on the highway but are usually advertised for “off-road use” or “racing-use only.”  These items are commonly referred to as “defeat devices” since they can render inoperative a portion of the emissions control system.   Manufacturers, distributors and retailers of MIL eliminator devices could face charges of violating the Clean Air Act.   The agency has authority to seize and destroy these products and issue fines.

Subsection (B) of 42 USC Sec. 7522 (1990 Clean Air Act Amendments) makes it illegal:
           
“(B) for any person to manufacture or sell, or offer to sell, or install, any part or component intended for use with, or as part of, any motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine, where a principal effect of the part or component is to bypass, defeat, or render inoperative any device or element of design installed on or in a motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine in compliance with regulations under this subchapter, and where the person knows or should know that such part or component is being offered for sale or installed for such use or put to such use;”

To pursue a claim that there is a legitimate need for a device covered by this law in off-road racing, one would have to demonstrate what purpose it would serve and how it would be restricted to racing activities only.  For additional information on this topic, see “Off Road Use Only - Basics of the Motorsports Exemption:”  http://www.sema.org/images/pdf/32405.pdf. Questions about the EPA investigation may be directed to Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

The Senate Commerce Committee approved legislation (S. 357) to dramatically raise the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. If enacted into law, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) would be required to increase the combined CAFE standards for passenger cars and light trucks by 4% a year. The current standard is 27.5 miles per gallon for cars and 21.6 miles per gallon for light trucks. The combined average would jump from 25 mpg to 35 mpg by 2019. NHTSA would retain authority to restructure the CAFE program in a manner which achieves maximum fuel savings while still ensuring the safety and stability of the automotive industry. The full Senate is expected to take up the bill this summer. The House of Representatives has not yet tackled CAFE legislation.

Prior to the Committee vote, SEMA sent a letter to members of the Senate Commerce Committee urging Congress to let NHTSA determine achievable CAFE standards. SEMA believes the NHTSA, rather than Congress, has better expertise in establishing the CAFE standards that take into account the impact on jobs, safety, consumer choice and technological feasibility. 

The Senate legislation also contains several unrelated safety measures. One would require the NHTSA to issue a vehicle compatibility standard to restrict the height differences between light trucks/SUVs and passenger cars. SEMA argued that this is unnecessary since the auto industry is already redesigning vehicles to address the issue. 

Lawmakers also included a requirement that the NHTSA establish a tire fuel-efficiency program. It would be a point-of-sale initiative which provides buyers with information about a tire’s fuel efficiency based on a rating system. Information provided to the potential customer would also stress the importance of maintaining proper tire inflation pressure. The legislation is similar to a law passed in California three years ago that includes a SEMA provision exempting limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually) and other specialized tires from the program. (California officials are expected to begin implementing regulations later this year.)  Although SEMA has been reluctant to focus consumer attention on tire fuel efficiency since it may distract motorists from more important safety issues such as tire pressure, performance and handling, the legislation is preferable to other Congressional proposals that would mandate onerous tire testing and labeling rules without providing any meaningful consumer benefits. The federal legislation would also have the benefit of establishing a national consumer education program on tire fuel efficiency rather than state-by-state rules. For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

Filler for eNews

NEWS NUGGETS

O’REILLY NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS RESCHEDULED: NHRA and Bristol Dragway officials announced on Sunday that the O’Reilly NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Q has been rescheduled for July 6–8, 2007. The concrete launch pad of the quarter-mile dragstrip surface was recently replaced and track officials along with NHRA officials have been working to prepare the track for the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series event, originally scheduled for May 18–20. Track officials contacted NHRA officials last week to advise them that the process of getting the racetrack race-ready was taking longer than expected. After a week-long process of trying to correct the situation, both organizations decided that the track’s new concrete surface was still not setting properly and would not be ready for this week’s event.  “We sent in our people to work with the team at Bristol Dragway to try and bring the surface around, but unfortunately it is not going to be raceable for this weekend,” said Graham Light, senior vice president of racing operations, NHRA. “In the interest of the safety and quality of the show, we weren’t left with a lot of options but to reschedule the event.”  The O’Reilly NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Q, July 6–8, 2007, will be run under the same schedule as originally planned beginning with qualifying on Friday night, followed by racing on Saturday and Sunday.  

JUNIOR DRAGSTER UP FOR AN AWARD: Gunnar Boelman, a 13-year-old from Diamond Bar, California, is one of 16 finalists for the Cartoon Network Props awards. The awards recognize kids who demonstrate an exceptional talent, commitment and accomplishment in a single area of expertise. Boelman began driving in the NHRA O’Reilly Auto Parts Jr. Drag Racing League just over a year ago. In the short time he has been driving his junior dragster, he has been a runner-up in an event and had a seventh-place finish in the year-end standings. His home track is Auto Club Dragway at California Speedway in Fontana, California. Boelman and his stepfather Dave Osborne are anxiously waiting for September 1 when the six lucky winners are named. For more information and to vote  visit http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/promos/props.
 
INDY SHOPS TO BE OPEN DURING INDY 500 WEEKEND: Fans attending the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway will have the opportunity to visit some of the top NHRA POWERade Racing Series team shops that are located in the Indianapolis area. Many auto-racing shops in the Northfield Drive-South Point Circle area of Brownsburg, Indiana, will open their doors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 26. Local businessman Mike Green is organizing the event and expects a great turnout from race fans and the local community. “Brownsburg has always had a rich history in racing, and recently we have added to the types of racing and racing entities in our town,” Green said. “This event is to showcase to the citizens of Brownsburg and race fans everywhere in the racing industry that we are home to.” The Brownsburg Motorsports Network includes teams from the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series, United States Auto Club (USAC), World of Outlaws and the ARCA Stock Car series. Many manufacturers and suppliers also find themselves along the Northfield Drive-South Point corridor.  Shops expected to participate in the Open House tours are, but not limited to, Don Prudhomme Racing, Don Schumacher Racing, Gotham City Racing, Indy Speed & Custom, Impact! Racing, Morgan Lucas Racing and Tuttle Motorsports. Fans are encouraged to begin their tours at Indy Speed & Custom, 1500 E. Main Street (Rt. 136), Brownsburg, where maps highlighting the participating shops that will be available.
 
CAPPS TO DRIVE ON DIRT: Ron Capps, the driver of the Brut Revolution Funny Car, will be testing his dirt-racing skills against some of the best NASCAR drivers on June 6 at Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, Ohio. He will be participating in the Nextel Prelude to the Dream charity race which raises money for the Victory Junction Gang Camp and the Tony Stewart Foundation. “I know our NHRA POWERade Drag Racing fans are all going to be tuning in to see how well we do,” Capps said. “It’s exciting for me to know that NHRA drag racing has the best fans and that they will be tuning in to see how a drag racer will hold up.”  This is the third time that Capps will be participating in the race which will be telecast by HBO for Pay-Per-View. In the previous two events, he finished ninth and fourth while driving the dirt late-model stock cars for 30 laps.

MILLICAN NEEDED TO BE SERIOUS FOR TV SHOW: The always happy and smiling Top Fuel driver Clay Millican had to be serious during the filming of the SPEED TV program “Blow It Up.” Millican, who drives his Knoll Gas dragster in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series on weekends, is the host of a show where he devises a number of ways to blow up engines in cars. He would tell the drivers of the various cars, from Volkswagens to Top Sportsman cars, what he wanted done. Some of the things Millican had them try were 30-second burnouts, launches and hot-lapping until the engine blows up. The hardest thing for him during the filming was to remain serious. “Every 30 seconds it was like, ‘Cut, cut, cut, Clay, quit smiling,’” Millican said. “Man, that's hard for me.”
 
RECORDS FELL DURING NHRA SPORT COMPACT SPRINGNATIONALS: The NHRA Xplod Sport Compact Racing Series saw a weekend of unbelievable action May 5–6. Six national records in four of the five categories were set at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in Englishtown, New Jersey. The most impressive records were set by Marty Ladwig in his Pro FWD Lucas Oil Chevy Cobalt.  He set the time record at 7.27 seconds and the speed record at 201.55. He still remains the only Pro FWD racer to surpass the 200-mph barrier, and he has accomplished this four times this year for a total of five times in his career with the NHRA. Others driving to records were Brad Personett in Pro RWD (6.64 seconds), Brent Rau in Modified (7.06 seconds), Paul Efantis in Modified (192.36 mph) and Jeremy Lookofsky in Honda Tuning magazine All Motor (146.31 mph).
 
COMING ATTRACTIONS
 
O’REILLY NHRA SUMMER  NATIONALS (AND NHRA SPORT COMPACT NATIONALS), TOPEKA, KANSAS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, JUNE 1–3: The ninth race of the NHRA POWERade season, this marks the beginning of the turn for home in the 17-event “regular season” portion of the NHRA POWERade Countdown to the Championship. Drivers will begin jockeying for one of the top eight spots that will guarantee them a place in the second stage, the Countdown to 4.
 
NORTHEAST NHRA SPORT COMPACT NATIONALS, ATCO, NEW JERSEY, ATCO RACEWAY, JUNE 9–10: Defending champions at the popular stop on the Sport Compact circuit are: Brad Personett (Pro RWD), Bryan Jimenez (Pro FWD), Jorge Lazcano (Modified), Ron Lummus (Hot Rod) and Norris Prayoonto (Honda Tuning magazine All Motor).
 
TORCO RACING FUELS NHRA ROUTE 66 NATIONALS, JOLIET, ILLINOIS, ROUTE 66 RACEWAY, JUNE 7–10: NHRA legend John Force holds the track record here (4.665 seconds) and he has won three of his NHRA-record 122 races at the spectacular raceway, which hosted its first NHRA POWERade Series race in 1998.
 
INSIDE THE NUMBERS

6: With the re-scheduling of the O’Reilly NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Q to July 6–8, this is the number of weeks in a row that drivers will be crossing the country to race, beginning with the NHRA Supernationals, June 21–24 at Englishtown, New Jersey and finishing with the Fram-Autolite NHRA Nationals, July 27–29 at Sonoma, California. The other four races in that six week span will be: Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals, June 28–July 1 at Norwalk, Ohio; Mopar Mile-High Nationals, July 13–15 at Denver; and the Schuck’s Auto Supply NHRA Nationals, July 20–22 at Seattle.

DRIVERS TELL ALL

WHAT MOTHERS DO FOR THEIR RACING CHILDREN: In his NHRA blog Tommy Johnson Jr., the Funny Car driver of the Skoal Racing Chevy Impala SS, explained what it is like to have a mother who helped him recognize his dream of driving in the POWERade Drag Racing Series. “I want to wish my mom Happy Mother's Day. She has been so good to me, and I want to let her know much I appreciate it. My parents made so many sacrifices for me to be able to race, but especially my mom. She stayed home and worked while my dad and I were out racing. She gave up a lot of things for me to have a racing career, so I just want to tell her thanks. Love you Mom!”

For more information, visit www.nhra.com.

Fleet Equipment magazine announced that Tim Barton has joined its staff as senior editor. Barton has more than 20 years experience in the trucking industry working as a journalist and a driver. Barton brings to the job a wealth of knowledge about truck equipment and a well-developed set of journalistic skills. Fleet Equipment magazine is published monthly by Babcox Publications.

McCourt Marketing, a tool company based in Akron, Ohio, hired Mike Getso as sales representative. Based out of Springfield, Missouri, Getso will be responsible for western Missouri and Kansas. He comes to McCourt with a strong automotive aftermarket tool and equipment background, most recently serving as central U.S. sales manager for Skye International Holdings.

NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) hired Randy Anderson, John Edlund and Ralph Herrold as district sales managers for the company. Anderson will be responsible for the sales efforts for NGK in Florida and Georgia. Edlund will oversee the sales for NGK in upstate New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Herrold will oversee the sales efforts for NGK in Washington and Alaska.

ASA Tire Systems promoted Erik Croswell to manager of communications and marketing. Croswell began his career with ASA Tire Systems in 1998 as the web developer and graphic designer, and eventually began planning and creating the company’s advertising and marketing campaigns. In his new role, Croswell will be responsible for the planning, managing and control of ASA Tire Systems’ advertising, direct mail and promotional campaigns.

Eaton Corp. named Scott King senior vice president and president of the Automotive Group. King succeeds Stephen Buente, who announced his retirement, effective July 1, after more than 30 years with Eaton. King has been vice president and president of the Powertrain and Specialty Controls Operations for the global automotive business since 2005. He was vice president of sales and marketing from 2001 to 2005 and previously held a number of senior sales and marketing positions within business units in the Automotive Group.

The latest news from SEMA councils and committees:

Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)

The following council members are the candidates for the ARMO Select Committee elections. There are six open seats for this year’s election. For information and how to vote, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org. 

ARMO Select-Committee Candidates

• Melvin Benzaquen, Classic Restoration Enterprises, Inc.
• Todd Bidwell, Parts Unlimited, Inc. (Incumbent) 
• Ken DeVries, Trader National Publishing 
• Steven Moskowitz, Antique Automobile Club of America, Inc.
• Roger Niehaus, Auto Custom Carpets, Inc. (Incumbent)
• Sandy Patterson, Primedia (Incumbent)
• Curt Patterson, AMAA (Incumbent) 
• Jim Vinarski, Carlisle Productions, Inc. (Incumbent) 
• Mark Vogt, Classic Industries/OER
  

• Del Austin – Street Thunder magazine (Incumbent)
• Tommy Daniels – Yearwood Speed & Custom (Incumbent) 
• Dick Dixon – Automotive Education Alliance, Inc. 
• Mike Kinney – Las Vegas Rod & Custom 
• Rick Love – Vintage Air Inc. (Incumbent) 
• Bob Millard – Championship Auto Shows 
• Ross Ortman – Dakota Digital Inc. – (Incumbent) 
• Brian Reese – Comp Performance Group 
• Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products 
• Janeen Webb - Primedia
  

• The DVD: “Why Paint Colors Vary?” This valuable resource is now available. TORA members now have a valuable new tool that will help educate consumers about the challenges of the paint color-matching process. Available for dealers and installers to play in their waiting areas, the video is presented in a professional format and brings a consistent message on why paint colors vary.??The TORA “Why Paint Colors Vary?” DVD is available to TORA council members free of charge (or $49.95 for non-TORA members). Other tools available from TORA are the CHMSL and altered-height CDs. For details or to place an order, contact Staci Perricone at 909/396-0289, ext. 104, or e-mail stacip@sema.org.
  

• 2007 MRC Rep Conference
  September 26–27, 2007
  Phoenix, Arizona

• PRO members: Join your colleagues at the 15th annual PRO Project-Planning Meeting, Thursday–Friday, June 7–8, at the Crowne Plaza Detroit Metro Hotel. This is your opportunity to take a stake in your council's future by taking advantage of an agenda that includes group brainstorming sessions, breakout group discussions and action planning for future council projects. The event also includes and exclusive reception at the Henry Ford Estate, complete with a private tour of the automaker's elegant mansion. To RSVP, e-mail to Summer Wright at summerw@sema.org by May 18. For hotel and airline reservations, contact Manya at Manya.P@travelstoreusa.com or 949/930-9268.

• You are invited to attend SEMA’s Sport Compact Council Youth Focus Panel during the NHRA Sport Compact Springnationals and D1 Grand Prix USA. The discussion will feature dozens of young consumers speaking candidly about their hobby. This is one of the best opportunities to discover what younger enthusiasts really think about and want from the automotive specialty-equipment market.
  
  Youth Focus Panel Details
  When: Saturday, May 5, at 2 p.m.
  Where: Old Bridge Township Raceway Park, 230 Pension Rd., Englishtown, NJ 07726
  RSVP Required: The location of Youth Focus Panel is in a restricted area, and a special pass is needed for access.
  
  For more information on the event or how to participate, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org or 909/396-0289, ext. 112.
  
  
• Tracie Nuñez, Advanced Clutch Technology, was elected chairman-elect of the SCC. Nuñez will start her role on July 1 when current chairman-elect, Eric Breslow, Power Slot/Power Performance Group, takes over as SCC chairman.
  

• George Gillespie, Safety Compliance Engineer responsible for OVSCs tire-related standards, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), delivered a presentation at the 2006 SEMA Show regarding NHTSA's enforcement activity relative to tires for passenger vehicles and trucks. Gillespie provided overview and status of the agency's recent initiatives to increase tire safety, including compliance and enforcement actions for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (FMVSS No. 138) and passenger and light-truck tires (FMVSS No. 139). He also discussed the current increased enforcement to address concerns related to imported tires. SEMA members can now get a copy of Gillespie's PowerPoint presentation by contacting Paul Moritz at 909/396-0289, ext. 112 or paulm@sema.org.

• Get expert advice on a business-related problem. The SEMA Mentoring program, powered by the SBN, is available to all employees of SEMA-member companies. Ask a one-time question or be matched with an established leader. Visit www.sema.org/mentoring for details.

• Did you know that the annual SEMA Show Silent Auction, hosted by the SEMA Young Executives Network, raised more than $70,000 for the SEMA Scholarship Fund in 2006? If you are interested in donating an item or becoming involved in the 2007 Silent Auction, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.
  
  
• Did you know that YEN 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 YEN for free. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, visit the YEN website at www.sema.org/yen.
  
  
• Bianca Hennings, Window Canvas, was selected for the YEN Silent Auction Task Force Chairman. Hennings will assume the position when the current chairman, Dave Williams, Rampage Products, finishes his term with the YEN Select Committee in July. The SEMA Silent Auction, that is managed by the YEN, has raised more than $100,000 for the SEMA Scholarship Fund in the past three years. If you are interested in participating in the SEMA Silent Auction on any level, visit www.sema.org/yen for additional information.
  
  
• Did you know that YEN sponsors networking events and mixers at most of the major trade shows and conferences? If you are interested in becoming a member of the SEMA Young Executive’s Network, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.
  
  
• Becoming involved in SEMA at an early age will help you work your way to the top. Did you know that current SEMA Chairman of the Board, Mitch Williams, was once a member of YEN? If you are interested in becoming a YEN member, visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.
  
  
• Lance Packard, Painless Performance, was elected YEN chairman-elect. Packard will assume the position when current chair-elect, Laurel Dasher, Uni-Marketing LLC, takes over as YEN chairman on July 1.
  
  
• Did you know that the 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 our website at www.sema.org/yen.
  

The SEMA Spring Expo and SEMA OFFROAD shows will take place in Indianapolis, February 8–9, 2008. Show information and rental agreements will be mailed in June.

The SEMA Spring Expo and SEMA OFFROAD deliver the SEMA Show experience to the doorstep of the specialty-equipment industry in the Midwest. Sponsored by the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) and Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), the trade-only events highlight a variety of products and services covering accessories, restyling, wheels and tires and mobile electronics.

Dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows and activities have been announced. Details are:??

>> Sacramento Legislative Rally, May, 23, Sacramento
>> Aftermarket eForum, Hyatt Regency O'Hare, July 16–18, Chicago
>> SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, July 27, Irvine, California
>> MRC Rep Conference, September 26–27, Phoenix
>> SEMA Show, October 30–November 2, Las Vegas

For association-related travel, contact Manya Petropaki (manya.p@travelstoreusa.com) at Travel Store USA, 949/930-9268.

SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities at www.sema.org/classifieds. 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 the employee to participate in webinars, access free market research, join SEMA committees and more. The newest classified listings posted under Positions Available include:?

• Marketing Coordinator, Phoenix, Arizona
• Design Engineer, Phoenix, Arizona
• General Manager, Southern California
• Tech Editor and Media Contact, El Paso, Texas
• Toolmaker/Jig and Fixture Builder, Torrance, California
  

SEMA members: Have a job opening that you need filled? Members are invited to post classified ads at www.sema.org/classifieds free of charge. Categories include Position Available, Positions Wanted, Rep Opportunities, WD Opportunities, For Sale, Items Wanted, Business Opportunities and Internships. Visit the site for details.

Several sections of the SEMA.org website have direct links which allow members quick access to industry- and association-related information and services. Some of the information within the sites is reserved for SEMA members only. To learn more about the benefits of SEMA membership, e-mail member@sema.org.

The Fast Tracks to Industry Information and Resources

Market Research: www.sema.org/research
International: www.sema.org/international
Educational Webcasts: www.sema.org/webinar
OEM Electronic Blueprints: www.sema.org/techtransfer
SEMA Memorial Scholarship: www.sema.org/scholarship
Project Vehicle Programs/OEM Relations: www.sema.org/oem
SEMA PAC: www.sema.org/pac
SEMA Trade Shows: www.sema.org/shows
Legislative and Regulatory Updates: www.semasan.com

General Motors announced that they are planning a production version of its well-received Chevrolet Volt concept, according to a recent AutoWeek article. GM says they are now working on the production engineering of the Volt concept, which will ride on the next-generation Delta platform. This will be the same platform the upcoming Cobalt or Astra small car will be built on. Two versions of the Volt will be put into production: one powered by a hydrogen fuel cell and the other will run on gasoline. The editors at AutoWeek report that the Volt could hit vehicle dealerships as early as 2010. However, GM says that suppliers need to produce a reliable lithium ion battery for the Volt in order to meet the 2010 release date. The Chevrolet Volt was showcased at both the Detroit and New York Auto Shows earlier this year, giving consumers a first-hand look at this future production car.

 


The upcoming Chevrolet Volt will be a low-volume production vehicle, GM says. The automaker indicates that the Volt will be a “series hybrid,” meaning that the vehicle’s wheels are turned by an electric motor that is powered by a battery pack. The battery pack is recharged by a small gasoline engine, which isn’t connected to the wheels. In addition, the battery pack will be rechargeable, so consumers will be able to plug it in to an electrical outlet for an overnight charge. This could mean that the Volt can drive up to 40 miles each day upon startup without using a single drop of gasoline.

A fuel-cell version of the Chevrolet Volt will primarily sell in China, according to the article, which will run on GM’s fifth generation fuel-cell small enough to fit into a conventional four-cylinder engine bay. The automaker also says that the same car can run on diesel or ethanol, depending on the market. 

Source: Truett, Richard and Lareau, Jamie. (May 7, 2007). “Prius Fighter: GM Commits to Volt Production.” AutoWeek. Retrieved May 10, 2007 from www.autoweek.com.

Blogs all over the Internet are buzzing about GM’s decision to offer two V6 engines in the new Saturn Vue midsize crossover, which will be available this summer. Both powerplants will be produced by General Motors. So what’s the big deal about that? Only the fact that the decision is ending an eight-year supply agreement with Honda Motor Co.

Just over half of the 290,000 Vues sold since 2004 have been outfitted with the Honda 3.5L V6. Featuring variable valve timing, the 24-valve OHC engine makes 248 hp and 242 lb.-ft. of torque.

For the 2008 Vue, taking the place of the Honda engine will be GM’s high feature 3.6L V6. The second-generation Vue will also be available with the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder and the 3.5L pushrod V6.

With all of the Internet chatter taking place about this new development, it’s likely that consumers and enthusiasts alike will change their perception of the Saturn Vue. Since 2004, Saturn has given enthusiasts the more powerful Red Line version of the Vue, which comes with enhanced styling for the 2008 release.

The Saturn Vue’s Red Line adds bold styling with an aggressive front-end design, including a large, lower air opening and projector-beam fog lamps, according to Saturn. The rear of the vehicle features a special fascia, a spoiler and chrome exhaust tips. A lowered suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and Red Line badges complete the performance-inspired appearance.

 


From a performance perspective, the Red Line comes with standard tap-up/tap-down transmission control and sport-tuned ride and handling. It is powered by a dual overhead cam 3.6L V6 VVT engine that delivers 250 horsepower (186 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 243 lb.-ft. (329 Nm) of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Vue Red Line will be available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Interior modifications include a Red-Line-only ebony interior, including black leather sport seats with suede fabric inserts. The vehicle also features Red-Line-logo instrument cluster graphics and embroidered floor mats.

The Vue Red Line will arrive in the third quarter of 2007.

Source: SEMA Research and Information Center

Nissan will offer enthusiasts a highly modified version of its popular sports car: the 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z. This marks the first time the NISMO package is available for the 350Z. The automaker says that they’re capturing the level of an enthusiast that wants customization at the dealership, but with this, enthusiasts are also turning to the specialty-equipment industry for their custom parts and accessories. When automakers release custom versions of production vehicles, there are those enthusiasts that look to specialty-equipment companies to take these vehicles to the next level in customization. In fact, many specialty-equipment companies showed off custom Nissan 350Zs at the 2006 SEMA Show. There were a total of 15 of these cars on the Show floor, making it among the top ten car models at the SEMA Show.

The 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z will come with both styling and performance upgrades. Featuring an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing, the NISMO 350Z produces additional aerodynamic downforce to provide enhanced cornering and handling performance, Nissan says. The NISMO 350Z also utilizes body dampers mounted in the front radiator-core support and in the rear cargo area, which assist in controlling body vibrations.

Additional performance features include a special NISMO-tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch front and 12.7-inch rear rotors) and NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS forged-alloy wheels (18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear with 245/40WR18 front, 265/35WR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires). In addition, a NISMO-branded tuned exhaust adds to the performance of the 350Z’s 306-horsepower V6 engine.

 


The NISMO 350Z includes a full complement of 350Z standard features, including the new VQ35HR 3.5L V6 engine producing 306 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 268 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm—with more than 90% of torque available between 2,000 and 7,000 rpm. Engine features include variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a 7,500-rpm rev limit and a symmetric twin Ram Air intake system.
The standard six-speed manual transmission features close-ratio gearing from first through fifth gears for high-performance driving and an overdrive sixth speed for highway fuel economy. For performance handling, standard on the NISMO 350Z is a Traction Control System (TCS) and Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD). Also standard is electronically controlled vehicle-speed-sensitive dual-orifice rack-and-pinion power-steering system, front and rear strut tower bracing, and four-wheel disc antilock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

The 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in July 2007. 

Sources: Nissan North America (March 28, 2007). “2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z Continues Tradition of Performance With Super GT Race-Inspired Styling and Features.” Nissan North America press release; SEMA Research and Information Center.

Honda says it will put a sleek hydrogen fuel-cell sedan into limited production next year and will sell a unique mass-market hybrid in the United States within two years. It will be priced less than the $25,000 Civic hybrid. At the 2007 North America International Auto Show in Detroit, Honda showed of a concept version of its next generation fuel-cell vehicle.

 

 


The automaker announced the vehicles at a Washington demonstration of prototypes of the FCX fuel-cell sedans it will offer in the United States next year.
 
According to a recent USA Today article, Honda is content with the viability of its fuel-cell car, and, as a result, is now concentrating on reducing the costs associated with fuel-cell vehicles and ensuring that a plentiful supply of hydrogen is available to its fuel-cell car users.
 
To this end, Honda is currently developing a “home energy centre” that would produce hydrogen for a fuel-cell car, as well as supply electricity for the home, although this product will not be ready in time to coincide with the fuel-cell sedan’s introduction.

General Motors also has promised 100 Chevrolet Equinox SUVs modified to run on fuel-cell power this year.

GM and Honda say their fuel-cell vehicles meet U.S. safety standards and have the same features as gasoline models.

 


Source: SEMA Research and Information Center

So how much money will consumers have in their pockets after purchasing a new vehicle? According to the “Auto Affordability Index” compiled by Comerica Bank, the purchase of an average-priced new vehicle took 24.7 weeks of median family income in the first quarter. This is down 1.5 weeks from the fourth quarter, and is also down 0.5 weeks compared to a year ago. This means that consumers have more discretionary income in their pockets to purchase specialty-equipment parts and accessories. 

Including finance charges, the total cost of buying an average-priced light vehicle was $28,200 in the first quarter, up 1.6% from a year ago. However, the median family income has increased 3.7% from a year ago, according to Comerica Bank. In others words, consumers have 2.1% more discretionary income after buying a new vehicle, assuming that all other expenditures are the same as last year.

 


“Consumers reacted to the sluggish economy, the rebound in gasoline prices and the softness in home prices by spending about $550 less per car than they did in the fourth quarter,” said Dana Johnson, senior vice president and chief economist at Comerica Bank. “That, along with the availability of more attractive financing rates, reversed somewhat more than half of the last quarter’s deterioration in affordability. With demand soft and the car companies fighting for market share, buyers were able to find pretty attractive deals on new cars in the first quarter.”

Source: Comerica Bank (May 9, 2007). “Auto Affordability Improves in the First Quarter, Comerica Bank Chief Economist Reports.” Comerica Bank Press Release courtesy of PR Newswire.

All buying decisions are made based on emotion, as are all decisions NOT to buy, according to Larry Merserearu—small business consultant, speaker and author in the field of marketing and promotion.

Emotions fall under two general categories: fear and greed. Almost any product can be advertised using either emotion. But if you really want to get your prospects’ interest, fear is the more powerful of the two.

Give your products and services some thought. What will be better about your prospects’ lives after they start using them? Will they be healthier, wealthier, wiser? That’s greed. They want to benefit that comes with using or owning your product. You arouse their interest by telling them how their life will be better.

What will they miss out on if they don’t buy? The more painful and dramatic you can make it, the more fear appeal you’ll arouse.

A landscaper selling lawn maintenance can promote the beautiful lawn the prospect will enjoy or talk about the misery of mowing and weeding their own lawn if they don’t buy. Talk about how much more golf and pool time they’ll enjoy, and you’re appealing to greed. Show a photo of an overgrown lawn full of dandelions, and you’re playing on fear.

The fear approach gives them a headache, and then offers your product or service as aspirin. People are more likely to be motivated to take fast action if it will alleviate perceived pain.

Greed motivation often takes longer to move people. That’s why direct-response advertisers like fear. They want to make their prospect pick up the phone immediately. If you want immediate response, start giving your prospects a headache.

Now, about the decision NOT to buy. If they fear that there is significant risk in buying, fear will make them say “no.” If they don’t see more value in the product or service than the cash they’ll have to part with to own it, greed will make them hang on to the cash.

For more information, go to http://promopower.com.

Source: Larry Mersereau (May 8, 2007). Fear vs. Greed. “Bringing In More Business…”(electronic newsletter).

Automakers continue to focus on new technologies that enhance driver safety. For example, electronic stability control is becoming more prevalent in the new vehicles released by the OEMs. In addition, automakers are now using electronically controlled suspensions to enhance consumers’ driving experience. For example, Tenneco Inc. recently announced that its Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension (CES) system is featured on the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class launched in Stuttgart earlier this year. The electronically controlled suspension system continuously adjusts to road conditions and driver’s actions, resulting in enhanced ride comfort and improved stability. The system enables Tenneco to tune vehicles to adapt to different driving factors, such as braking, accelerating, steering and vehicle load, which increases the range of ride comfort and handling capability.

Tenneco’s CES system continuously adjusts damping levels according to road conditions and vehicle dynamics. At the heart of the system is an electronic control unit (ECU) that processes driver inputs and data from sensors placed at key locations on the vehicle. The sensors include three accelerometers mounted on the vehicle body and four suspension position sensors, which provide data on steering-wheel angle, vehicle speed, brake pressure and other chassis control factors. The ECU utilizes control software that processes the sensor information in real time and sends signals that adjust independently the damping level of each shock-absorber valve. Electronic dampers allow a large range between maximum and minimum damping levels and adjust instantaneously to ensure ride comfort and firm vehicle control.

“We are very pleased to supply the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class with our electronic suspension technology,” said Gregg Sherrill, chairman and CEO, Tenneco. “Our commitment to customer collaboration—from development through systems integration, ride tuning, program management and launch—helps ensure that each vehicle equipped with our advanced suspension technology has unique ride and handling characteristics.”

Source: Tenneco Inc. (May 8, 2007). “Tenneco Launches Electronic Suspension System on the New Mercedes-Benz C-Class.” Tenneco Inc. press release courtesy of PR Newswire.

According to a recent Ward’s Auto article, German manufacturer ZF Friedrichshafen AG introduced a rear-wheel drive eight-speed automatic transmission at the International Vienna Motor Symposium.

The gearbox is “designed to improve fuel economy without sacrificing performance,” according to the article. It marks the industry’s second transmission to feature eight forward gears. The first was developed by Japan’s Aisin Group and is found in Toyota’s Lexus LS 460. The ZF transmission weighs the same and will fit in a similar space as a six-speed transmission.

The gearbox will feature what ZF calls an entirely new shifting concept of four planetary gear sets and five shift elements. It is expected to improve fuel economy by 6% compared to the company’s six-speed unit, and fuel consumption is expected to be reduced by 14% over most five-speed units.

ZF says that the new transmission will be able to handle more torque than its six-speed model. The modular construction allows for an advanced automated clutch system to replace the torque converter. Although ZF refused to name any potential customers, the company did say that the eight-speed unit is compatible with most all-wheel-drive systems and supports the integration of partial (started/generator components) as well as full hybrid-electric powertrains. 

Source: Sutton, Mike. (May 7, 2007). “ZF Unwraps 8-Speed Automatic Transmission.” WardsAuto.com. Retreived May 11, 2007 from www.wardsauto.com.

Market-watchers have been particularly interested in the rash of announcements on fuel-cell (FC) vehicles that surrounded the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show and the recent funding and development news at the Hydrogen & Fuel Cells 2007 exhibition in Vancouver, according to a recent Fuel Cell Today article.

General Motors, DaimlerChrysler and Chinese manufacturers Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC) and Chery have all revealed new FC vehicles in the past two weeks. These unveilings have been accompanied by optimistic soundings from the main manufacturers on how quickly FC vehicles could come to market, Fuel Cell Today notes. Nick Cappa, manager of advanced technology at DaimlerChrysler, accompanied an announcement on the upcoming Mercedes B Class FC test vehicle with a prediction that in the next five to eight years there will be as many FC vehicles as there are hybrids today. This sentiment was echoed by Todd Goldstein from GM’s fuel cell centre in California who envisaged FC cars being available to the public by 2015. At the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show in late April, GM showed off its fuel-cell-powered Chevrolet Volt concept car which combines GM’s fifth-generation FC stack with a lithium-ion battery on the E-Flex platform, the chassis that will provide the basis of GM’s next-generation global mid-range car. Two big Chinese car manufacturers used the show to announce their progress on developing FC vehicles to the world. SAIC and Chery both displayed experimental fuel-cell vehicles. At a time when they are still trying to establish themselves in international markets, Chinese automakers are already investing in FC technology in a bid to win a foothold in the next generation of technology. GM has a joint-venture technology center with SAIC in Shanghai and operates experimental fuel-cell buses in the city. China continues to represent an exciting potential market for automotive fuel cells, and the actions of the main car manufacturers there suggests they are investing in that market for the long term, according to Fuel Cell Today.

Hydrogen & Fuel Cells 2007, held this week in Vancouver, included the announcement that finally the fuel-cell program in British Columbia will get underway. Twenty fuel-cell buses are to be bought and used for a full service period of 20 years. These buses will be up and running for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Whistler, British Columbia. Ballard Power Systems, Canada’s leading FC manufacturer, announced that it has scaled back its sales outlook for two major customers, General Hydrogen and Cellex Power Products Inc., but is holding to full-year revenue expectations after a 44% rise in first-quarter revenue. Revenue climbed to $13.6 million (USD) from $9.4 million (USD).

In funding and government news, The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released an official Request for Information on early market activities in the hydrogen and fuel- cell development sector, perhaps a precursor to further funding for the sector, Fuel Cell Today says. An existing DOE-funded project, jointly developed by FuelCell Energy and Versa Power Systems successfully completed performance and endurance tests set by the DOE. The U.S. Fuel Cell Council has officially asked the U.S. Congress for a long-term extension to the investment tax credit for businesses and households installing fuel cells. In Europe, automotive industry representatives have pushed the case for fuel-cell technology in transport at a meeting with MEPs in Strasbourg. On the other side of the pond, the president of Fuel Cell Europe urged European politicians to show leadership on the introduction of fuel-cell technology to the automotive market, both at a regional and European level.

Several important developments have occurred in new technology in the last two weeks. U.K.-based fuel-cell materials firm Bac2 Conductive Composites has reported an enhancement in conductivity for its patented ElectroPhen polymer. Plug Power says it has achieved a “record number” of fuel-cell system installations in the first three months of 2007. The company, which makes GenCore backup power generators, said that a total of 24 systems had been installed in New York state, with the cooperation of the New York Power Authority and the state police. On the corporate front, HyRadix, a provider of on-site hydrogen generation systems, announced it has been acquired by Eden Energy Corp., a diversified clean energy company located in Perth, Australia.

Source: Butler, Jon. (May 4, 2007). Fuel Cell Today newsletter. www.fuelcelltoday.com.    

Although convertible hardtops have been around for some time, this past year has seen a huge influx of less expensive niche models with folding hardtops, according to a recent AutoWeek article. The article states, as hardtop convertible variants were introduced on vehicles, such as the Volvo C70, Pontiac G6, Volkswagen Eos, Chrysler Sebring, Mazda MX-5 and BMW 3 Series, automakers pushed their benefits: protection from the weather and theft, a quieter ride and even better body stiffness. Automakers are saying that these convertibles are selling well, perhaps signaling a growing trend for convertible hardtops.

Volkswagen says that its Eos, the automakers convertible hardtop-only model, which went on sale last fall, just posted its best month in April and is on track to meet its target of 12,000–13,000, reports AutoWeek. Sales of Pontiac’s G6 convertible have exceeded the company’s expectations and have contributed to a 38% sales increase of the G6 during the first quarter of 2007 compared to the same time last year. Mazda has reeled in additional MX-5 buyers by offering its two-seat roadster with a folding hardtop. In April, nearly a third of MX-5 sales were power-retractable hardtop models.

 

Automakers who have been in the market with folding hardtops for several years, such as Lexus with its SC and Cadillac with its XLR, say that the new and less expensive convertible hardtops are only boosting interest in the overall segment.

Source: Gritzinger, Bob and Wong, Jonathan. (May 9, 2007). “Folding Hardtops Hot: Bargain Convertibles Spark Renewed Interest in Segment.” AutoWeek. Retrieved May 11, 2007 from www.autoweek.com.

Filler for eNews

More than 550 exhibitors are expected at this year's PAACE Automechanika taking place this July 11–13 in Mexico City. To date, 30 SEMA-member companies have signed up to exhibit at the largest automotive-parts trade show in Latin America.

The Salon de SEMA section of the show will once again feature dozens of project vehicles and a center stage with "Overhaulin'" co-host AJ  introducing exhibitors and their products to buyers.

To sign up for a booth, visit www.salondesema.com, www.paaceautomechanika.com or contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

Here are some of the companies already signed up for the Salon de SEMA section of PAACE Automechanika:

• ACCEL(a division of Mr. Gasket Co.)
• Alto Products Corp.
• Big Country
• China Economic News Service
• Delphi Corporation
• DENSO
• EMPI, Inc.
• Fairchild Industries, Inc.
• Flowmaster, Inc.
• Full Throttle Video
• Grote Industries de Mexico SA de CV
• Illinois Auto Truck Co., Inc.
• King Engine Bearings, Inc.
• Lucas Oil Products
• MacNeil Automotive Products Limited
• Midtronics, Inc.
• Motorad of America
• Myron and Davis
• Parasol Internacional De Mexico S.A. de C.V.
• Performance Depot
• Pro-Cut International
• Prosil/Magnaflow
• Putco Inc.
• Reaco, S.A. de C.V.
• Rhino Linings USA, Inc.
• Sonnax
• Street Glow, Inc.
• United Engine & Machine Co.
• Walker Products, Inc.
• Wellman Products Group
  

SEMA-member companies that would like to receive the SEMA PAC Newsletter featuring up-to-date information on Capitol Hill, friends and allies in Washington D.C., and information on SEMA PAC activities, are invited to click here. For more information regarding the SEMA Political Action Committee, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org. 

How do you get your customers to buy more? Successful jobbers and retailers have discovered how to do just that when they offer their customers the CarCareOne card. Designed to help sell more products, it also offers help with raising your average sales price per customer. Mark your calendars now because this is a program you can't afford to miss.

SEMA-GE Money Car Care One Private Label
Thursday, June 21, 2007
10:00 a.m. (PST)

For information on how to attend the webinar, and for past webinar sessions, visit www.sema.org/webinar.

Filler for eNews

The Formula SAE competition is for SAE student members to conceive, design, fabricate and compete with small, formula-style racing cars. The restrictions on the car frame and engine are limited so that the knowledge, creativity and imagination of the students are challenged. The cars are built with a team effort over a period of about one year and are taken to annual competitions for judging and comparison with other vehicles from colleges and universities throughout the world. The end result is a great experience for young engineers in a meaningful engineering project, as well as the opportunity of working in a dedicated team effort.

If your company hires entry-level engineers, if you want to influence the next generation of business-to-business (B2B) engineering customers, if you want to showcase your company in front of young engineers, or if you simply want to see what the brightest young engineers are doing these days, consider volunteering at the Second Annual Formula SAE West, June 13-16, at California Speedway, Fontana, California.

Formula SAE West is seeking companies and individuals in the automotive industry with expertise in the following areas:

-Formula car suspension design
-Four-stroke engine design (including specialized knowledge in electronics and small displacement engines)
-Low-volume production
-The business of motorsports
-General automotive and aftermarket product engineering

Specifically, Formula SAE needs people to commit to being at the event as an active participant. The date(s) you are available will determine your role (i.e. cost judges are only needed on Thursday; dynamic events are only on Friday/Saturday, fueling and tech are all days, etc.

The 2007 Formula SAE West schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, June 13
Set-up/Registration/Tech Inspection/Faculty-Industry Reception

Thursday, June 14      
Static Judging (Cost, Presentation, Design, Tech Inspection)

Friday, June 15          
Acceleration, Skidpad, and Autocross

Saturday, June 16      
Endurance/Fuel Economy/Awards

Contacts:
Brad Nelson: 310/245-0139; brn01@hotmail.com
Dean Case: 310/318-4582; dean@RWB-LLC.com

SEMA members are encouraged to watch the mail for the SEMA Board of Directors election ballots that were mailed this week. One ballot was sent to each member company within the voting categories. This year’s election includes voting for the chairman-elect position. Questions about the SEMA Board of Directors or the election process can be sent to Christine Papavero at chrisb@sema.org or 909/396-0289, ext. 123.

Current Chairman-Elect Jim Cozzie of Zoom Performance Products recently challenged the nearly 7,000 SEMA members to cast their votes in the upcoming elections. “You all get to choose who will represent you in confronting the challenges ahead,” Cozzie said during the SEMA State of the Association. “It is incumbent on each and every SEMA member to ensure the best people the industry has to offer have the opportunity to serve.”

The chairman-elect position is voted on every two years and will transition directly to the position of SEMA Chairman of the Board in 2009. Chairman-elect candidates are Wade Kawasaki of Avanche Corporation and Rick Rollins of Superchips, Inc.

In addition to the chairman and the chairman-elect, the SEMA Board of Directors includes 22 other members representing three categories: manufacturers, distributor/retailer and manufacturers’ rep. All board seats are volunteer positions and are two-year terms, with approximately half the board members’ posts expiring each year.

Candidates for the manufacturers’ category are Gale Banks of Gale Banks Engineering, Robert Bruegging of Mr. Gasket Co., David Crockett of EGR, Larry Erickson of Ford Motor Co., Doug Evans of Primedia, Dennis Gage of Bradley David Productions, Joe Hige of Turbonetics Inc., Raymond King of Federal-Mogul, Rich Sherman of Baer Brakes, Mike Spagnola of Street Scene Equipment, David Stutts of Hot Rod Air Inc. and Jeep Worthan of Auto Meter. John Menzler of Comp Performance Group is the alternate in the manufacturers’ category.

In the distributor/retailer category, the candidates are Donnie Eatherly of P&E Distributors, Don Fall of Fall Advertising, Anne Johnson of California Truck Works, Inc., Tony Napoli of American Speed Centers, Stephen Negrini of Drivers Edge Inc., Bob Price of CE Band, LLC, Mark Toebben of DCi and Van Woodell of Weathers Auto Supply. The alternate in the distributor/retailer category is Michael Roth of TRG Studios.

Individuals running for the SEMA Board in the manufacturers’ rep category are Bryan Foster of Foster Babcock & Assoc., Bill Perry of Bill Perry & Associates and Dave Wrobleski of Jim Wrobleski & Co. Jim Marino of Wes-Coast Marketing is the alternate in this category.

Nissan North America is now accepting project-vehicle proposals for the 2007 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The automaker is accepting proposals based on any current Nissan models, with its 2007 SEMA strategy focused primarily on the 2007 Sentra and the 2008 Altima Coupe.

Complete program information and proposal requirements are available by clicking here. All proposals are due by June 15.  

While attending the YearOne Experience on May 20, Air Ride Technologies discovered that their '67 Camaro was stolen from the Hampton Inn in Buford, Georgia, between midnight and 6:30 a.m.
 
Says Air Ride, “We know that the chances of us recovering this car are slim to none, but we want to take our misfortune and make a positive out of it. We want to alert you all that this happened and that you need to take any precautions you can to make sure it doesn't happen to you.
 
“If you happen to see this beautiful car at a show or running wide open down the street, call us. Chances are that you won't and that’s okay. To let you know that this can happen and to keep your car safe is enough for us.”
 
For more information about Air Ride Technologies' Camaro, contact Bret Voelkel at 812/630-1720. For more detailed information regarding the car, click here or log on to ridetech.com and look under company projects.

Filler for eNews