Spies in Germany have caught the mid-engine Vette testing on and around the Ring with a lot less camo.

GM is currently hard at work on an all-new mid-engined supercar that is expected to join the Corvette lineup in 2019, more than likely as a ’20 model. The new mid-engine Corvette isn’t expected to replace the existing C7, which debuted for the ’14 model year, but instead serve as a halo car for the Corvette brand. The current C7 Corvette should be replaced sometime around ’22 MY after an eight-year run.

The mid-engine Corvette will undergo a landmark change in philosophy as Corvettes have always been front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports cars. Chevrolet has studied the idea of a mid-engine Corvette at several points in the nameplate’s history (and in fact, a mid-engine Corvette program was approved in 2007, but shelved due to GM’s 2009 bankruptcy).

The mid-engine Vette was originally expected to use GM’s upcoming twin-turbocharged 4.2L V8, but it’s now rumored to borrow the 6.2L LT1. Transmission is likely to be a DCT unit, with lightning-fast shifts, and according to Car and Driver, “Tremec’s TR-9007 seven-speed DCT will be the one and only transmission available.”

The mid-engine Vette will wear 245/35 ZR19 up front, and 305/30 ZR20 in the rear.

Chevrolet has also trademarked the name “E-Ray,” which likely signifies that an electrified version will also be available. This could come in the form of a plug-in hybrid or possibly even an all-electric version in the vein of the Audi R8 e-tron.

GM has announced an $800 million investment to be designated for the Bowling Green assembly plant. This announcement is likely tied to the introduction of this car.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

By John Santos

Get a sneak peek into the classic American cars of two SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) competitors.

Mark Delisle, who turned his love of Camaros into a business 12 years ago, will showcase one of his customized Camaros at this year’s SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. He secured the name “IROC-Z” for the build, which features a custom front grille and a wide body. Delisle feels that the highest caliber of builders compete in Battle of the Builders and is fortunate to be able to participate this year. Learn more about his IROC Z Camaro:

Tony Arme of American Legends builds, services and repairs ’72-and-older vehicles, and will compete with a ’68 Mustang Coupe. The vehicle has been radically modified with nearly every part customized, from the Ferrari engine to the wheels and the rear window. Arme has given the classic car modern upgrades while still maintaining the vehicle’s beauty. Find out more about the ’68 Mustang Coupe’s vehicle modifications:

Subscribe to the SEMA Show’s YouTube Channel to see the latest builder interviews and more leading up to the 2018 Show.

By John Santos

Get a sneak peek into the classic American cars of two SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) competitors.

Mark Delisle, who turned his love of Camaros into a business 12 years ago, will showcase one of his customized Camaros at this year’s SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. He secured the name “IROC-Z” for the build, which features a custom front grille and a wide body. Delisle feels that the highest caliber of builders compete in Battle of the Builders and is fortunate to be able to participate this year. Learn more about his IROC Z Camaro:

Tony Arme of American Legends builds, services and repairs ’72-and-older vehicles, and will compete with a ’68 Mustang Coupe. The vehicle has been radically modified with nearly every part customized, from the Ferrari engine to the wheels and the rear window. Arme has given the classic car modern upgrades while still maintaining the vehicle’s beauty. Find out more about the ’68 Mustang Coupe’s vehicle modifications:

Subscribe to the SEMA Show’s YouTube Channel to see the latest builder interviews and more leading up to the 2018 Show.

By John Santos

Get a sneak peek into the classic American cars of two SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) competitors.

Mark Delisle, who turned his love of Camaros into a business 12 years ago, will showcase one of his customized Camaros at this year’s SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. He secured the name “IROC-Z” for the build, which features a custom front grille and a wide body. Delisle feels that the highest caliber of builders compete in Battle of the Builders and is fortunate to be able to participate this year. Learn more about his IROC Z Camaro:

Tony Arme of American Legends builds, services and repairs ’72-and-older vehicles, and will compete with a ’68 Mustang Coupe. The vehicle has been radically modified with nearly every part customized, from the Ferrari engine to the wheels and the rear window. Arme has given the classic car modern upgrades while still maintaining the vehicle’s beauty. Find out more about the ’68 Mustang Coupe’s vehicle modifications:

Subscribe to the SEMA Show’s YouTube Channel to see the latest builder interviews and more leading up to the 2018 Show.

By SEMA Editors

Editors and reporters can find hundreds of story ideas, connect with thousands of manufacturers, witness new product and vehicle reveals and conduct valuable business at the 2018 SEMA Show.

Journalists are now invited to apply for media credentials for the 2018 SEMA Show—the premier automotive trade gathering in the world, where editors and reporters can find hundreds of story ideas, connect with thousands of manufacturers, witness new product and vehicle reveals and conduct valuable business.

The following are eight benefits of securing media badges early:

• Receive timely feedback on applications with no delays.
• Obtain ongoing updates and tips leading up to the Show.
• Receive news from exhibitors and learn what they have planned.
• Sign up for media-only events.
• Secure discounted hotel rooms before they’re booked.
• Gain access to the SEMA Show floor all four days of the Show, during hours and a half-hour before the floor opens.
• Use the exclusive Media Center, along with the complimentary amenities.
• Meet face-to-face with thousands of manufacturers, from leading automakers to emerging new businesses.

The SEMA Show is the best place for journalists to conduct interviews, take photos and develop stories about the automotive specialty-equipment market.

Media registration for the 2018 SEMA Show, to be held October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas, is available now at www.semashow.com/register.

For additional information, contact SEMA public relations at 909-978-6722 or pr@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

Editors and reporters can find hundreds of story ideas, connect with thousands of manufacturers, witness new product and vehicle reveals and conduct valuable business at the 2018 SEMA Show.

Journalists are now invited to apply for media credentials for the 2018 SEMA Show—the premier automotive trade gathering in the world, where editors and reporters can find hundreds of story ideas, connect with thousands of manufacturers, witness new product and vehicle reveals and conduct valuable business.

The following are eight benefits of securing media badges early:

• Receive timely feedback on applications with no delays.
• Obtain ongoing updates and tips leading up to the Show.
• Receive news from exhibitors and learn what they have planned.
• Sign up for media-only events.
• Secure discounted hotel rooms before they’re booked.
• Gain access to the SEMA Show floor all four days of the Show, during hours and a half-hour before the floor opens.
• Use the exclusive Media Center, along with the complimentary amenities.
• Meet face-to-face with thousands of manufacturers, from leading automakers to emerging new businesses.

The SEMA Show is the best place for journalists to conduct interviews, take photos and develop stories about the automotive specialty-equipment market.

Media registration for the 2018 SEMA Show, to be held October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas, is available now at www.semashow.com/register.

For additional information, contact SEMA public relations at 909-978-6722 or pr@sema.org.

By Kristopher Porter

The Young Executives Network (YEN) is hosting a meetup for local professionals under the age of 40 who work in the various automotive industry segments. It’s also a great opportunity for mature professionals who are interested in advancing young professionals in the work force. This is a free regional event that will take place at the Sand Sports Super Show in Costa Mesa, California, Friday, September 14.

All YEN members and those interested in learning about opportunities to get involved with SEMA and build industry connections are encouraged to attend. YEN leadership will be present to discuss the network’s initiatives, volunteer opportunities and additional ways to get more involved.

YEN members who RSVP will receive one complimentary, single-day pass to attend the Sand Sports Super Show on Friday. Come and experience the biggest and most exciting dune and dirt sports EXPO in the world, including hundreds of exhibitors and many opportunities to connect with industry professionals.

If you live in the Orange County or Riverside County areas, stop by and enjoy an evening with fellow YEN colleagues.

Register now!

For more information, contact SEMA Director of Networks Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

By Kristopher Porter

The Young Executives Network (YEN) is hosting a meetup for local professionals under the age of 40 who work in the various automotive industry segments. It’s also a great opportunity for mature professionals who are interested in advancing young professionals in the work force. This is a free regional event that will take place at the Sand Sports Super Show in Costa Mesa, California, Friday, September 14.

All YEN members and those interested in learning about opportunities to get involved with SEMA and build industry connections are encouraged to attend. YEN leadership will be present to discuss the network’s initiatives, volunteer opportunities and additional ways to get more involved.

YEN members who RSVP will receive one complimentary, single-day pass to attend the Sand Sports Super Show on Friday. Come and experience the biggest and most exciting dune and dirt sports EXPO in the world, including hundreds of exhibitors and many opportunities to connect with industry professionals.

If you live in the Orange County or Riverside County areas, stop by and enjoy an evening with fellow YEN colleagues.

Register now!

For more information, contact SEMA Director of Networks Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

SEMA recently conducted a survey regarding the exporting activities of its U.S.-based member manufacturers. The 243 SEMA members that completed the survey represent nearly 11% of SEMA-member manufacturers located throughout the United States.

By SEMA Editors

Latest Jobs Added to SEMA Career Center

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest jobs posted to the website.

Inside/Online Sales Representative: DIGIPOWER is hiring an inside/online sales representative responsible for sourcing current and new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound calls and emails, understanding customer needs and requirements and providing relevant solutions and routing qualified opportunities to the appropriate channels for further development and account setup. Candidates should have three to five years of proven sales and marketing experience, previous experience working in the automotive performance industry and online selling experience.

Warehouse Coordinator: McLeod Racing is hiring a warehouse coordinator responsible for receiving incoming shipments, checking in quantity against packing slips/purchase orders, checking for quality and accuracy against prints, QC packaged finished goods and conducting spot checks and shelving finished goods in assigned areas. Applicants must have forklift experience and a valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record. Ten or more years’ experience is preferred.

Automotive Technician: AAM Competition LLC is hiring an automotive technician to install high-performance parts and perform regular scheduled maintenance. The qualified candidate will have more than three years’ automotive shop experience, a strong understanding of vehicle wiring diagrams/electronics and experience pulling engines out of vehicles and reinstalling them. Engine building experience is a plus.

Account Specialist: Energy Suspension is hiring an account specialist to manage assigned accounts by maintaining contact on a daily basis via phone or email, utilize excellent relationship and selling skills to achieve sales goals and aggressively book new business each year in keeping with corporate capabilities and profit objectives. The qualified candidate will have previous customer account sales experience with basic heavy-duty truck and mechanical knowledge and excellent verbal, written and presentation skills. Occasional travel to attend trade shows and key customer events is required.

Automotive Service Equipment Territory Salesperson: Snap-On Equipment is hiring an automotive service equipment territory salesperson to sell quality, name-brand products to service centers, dealerships and body shops. The successful candidate will have a professional sales background, proven sales track record and automotive service experience. A bachelor’s degree, automotive sales experience and capital equipment sales experience are preferred.