Business Tools

How Manufacturers Can Continue to Develop Aftermarket Parts While Sheltering at Home

By Della Domingo

SEMA Garage
The SEMA Compliance Center is available to assist members with performance products that may impact a vehicle’s emissions and are in need of an Executive Order from the California Air Resources Board (CARB EO).

Automotive aftermarket manufacturers seeking to develop products during “stay-at-home” orders can tap into several exclusive SEMA-member benefits that lend themselves to physical distancing. Available throughout the year and popular amongst SEMA manufacturing members, these benefits may prove even more valuable given the current landscape:

  • Vehicles in Operations (VIO): The SEMA-member VIO program helps companies make informed decisions by understanding the number of target vehicles currently on the road for any make or model. The information is key to helping members identify the vehicle platforms that have the greatest opportunities, develop a strategic distribution strategy and target their marketing. To learn more, click here
  • Tech Transfer/CAD Data: Computer Aided Design (CAD) data from automakers is available exclusively to SEMA-member manufacturers to assist with developing products quickly, accurately and efficiently. Through the SEMA Tech Transfer Program, members may be able to eliminate the need to source, disassemble and digitally create CAD models. More than 40,000 CAD files are already in the library and available to use, and additional data may be available through supplemental 3D scanning from the SEMA Garage. Click here for details about the Tech Transfer Program.
  • Rapid Prototyping/3D Printing: When members have completed design for their aftermarket products, they may want to create a low-cost prototype before going into full production. SEMA’s 3D printing is available. Use of the machine and labor is available free of charge, and members simply pay for the cost of material. Click here for additional information about SEMA’s Rapid Prototyping/3D Printing Services.
  • EO Preparation and Advocacy Services: The SEMA Compliance Center is available to assist members with performance products that may impact a vehicle’s emissions and are in need of an Executive Order from the California Air Resources Board (CARB EO). Expert staff will help members review their products to determine what may be required to obtain an EO, assist with the application process and even interact with CARB on behalf of members. Details can be found here.

To learn more about how manufacturers can tap into resources to help with product development and other benefits, visit the SEMA website.