By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program. Apply here.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list features SEMA Show exhibitor product offers and contact information for builders looking to collaborate.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly. With each project vehicle required to be supported by a current 2023 SEMA Show exhibitor, all product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2023 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form.

Builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2023 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. For verification purposes, the Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2023 SEMA Show.

By SEMA Editors

Mercedes has begun testing on its second-generation EQC SUV, and sources have caught a prototype leaving the automaker's Research and Development department in downtown Stuttgart, Germany, for the first time. 

The new EQC SUV will be based on the all-new EQC sedan, which is scheduled for a 2025 or a 2026 launch and, in the long term, is expected to replace today's gas and diesel-powered C-Class. A C-Class wagon will not be continued; the gap it leaves will be filled with the EQC SUV.

Mercedes EQA Sedan Captured in Germany

In addition, a smaller Mercedes EQA sedan is set to replace today's internal combustion engine-powered A-Class hatch and sedan, and, according to insider reports, our sources captured shots of the EQA while it was on public roads in Germany. It is the first time we get to see the car with the production lamp units front and rear and with less camouflage on the bumpers and the side panels.
Unlike the Mercedes EQE and Mercedes EQS, the Mercedes EQA sedan won't ride on a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) platform. It will be an electric-first platform, as in a base developed primarily for compact and mid-size EVs, but supporting internal combustion engine vehicles, too.

New Images of the BMW M3 Reveal Fresh Details

Sources have captured the BMW M3 partially camouflaged. Next year, the BMW M3 will get a mid-cycle refresh, also known as a Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) in BMW vernacular. While the front end's changes are visible, the rear appears to be exactly the same as the '24 model, although additional changes are expected to be made prior to the reveal.

Pictured with huge calipers, black wheels and tires from Michelin, the M3 refresh is expected to enter production in July 2024. The coupe- and convertible-bodied siblings will, reportedly, enter production in March 2024 with slightly more power for the competition.

By SEMA Editors

Bill Vukovich II, the 1968 Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year and a member of one of the race's most prominent families, has passed away. He was 79.

Vukovich was the son of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Bill Vukovich and the father of fellow Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year Billy Vukovich III, as the Vukovichs were one of only five families to have three generations of drivers compete in "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," joining the Unsers, Andrettis, Foyts and Brabhams.

California native Vukovich made 12 starts in the "500" between 1968-80 with six top-10 finishes. His best result was second in the rain-shortened race in 1973, driving the No. 2 Sugaripe Prune Eagle/Offy fielded by Jerry O'Connell.

In 1968, Vukovich qualified 23rd and steadily climbed to finish seventh as a rookie driving the No. 98 Wagner-Lockheed Shrike/Offy fielded by fellow Californian J.C. Agajanian. That performance earned Vukovich the Rookie of the Year award.

Vukovich was also a star on short tracks across America. He earned 23 USAC National Midget victories racing for such premier team owners as J.C. Agajanian.

In 1998, Vukovich was enshrined in the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame, joining his father. All three Vukovichs are also enshrined in their hometown in the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame.

For more information, visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway announcement. 

Trick-Tools Partners With Transfluid, W.A.R. for NHRA Competition

Trick-Tools, the manufacturer of high-performance metal fabrication equipment and metal working tools, has partnered with NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle team White Alligator Racing (W.A.R.) and Transfluid, the global manufacturer of tube processing and tube bending machines. The partnership will support W.A.R. in the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Series in 2023.

"Our long-lasting relationship with Trick-Tools made it easy to take advantage of the sponsorship opportunity. As a technically enthusiastic company with a major involvement in the racing and automotive industries, we have a natural affinity for motorsports. It's an outstanding field that requires technical excellence and teamwork--values that are also the foundation of our company. We are honored to be part of this racing family and look forward to an incredibly exciting season," said Yannick Bludau, CEO of Transfluid Tube Machinery.

For more information, visit trick-tools.com.

By SEMA Editors

Wilwood Engineering--the Camarillo, California-based designer and manufacturer of high-performance disc brakes and components--has appointed Robert Hemingway as its new director of engineering.

Hemingway will join the research & development (R&D)/engineering team and focus on Wilwood's ability to design and produce premium-quality brake components and systems utilizing the latest manufacturing and new material technologies.

"I am excited to join the iconic Wilwood Engineering team and lead the already successful research and development group into the future. Let's grab another gear and push the pedal to the floor as we begin the next chapter of what the best brake systems in the world are and will always be," said Hemingway.

With more than 10 years as an engineering hardware development professional in the automotive, aerospace and defense industry, Hemingway most recently served as a senior development engineer at Garrett Motion in Torrance, California, where he helped launch new products.

Prior experience includes a position with Honda Performance Development as the top-end development lead for racing categories from motocross to IndyCar.

For more information, visit wilwood.com.

By SEMA Editors

All-Midwest Sales, the provider of automotive aftermarket manufacturer's representation, will celebrate 55 years of servicing the industry in 2023.

Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Hinkley, Ohio, All-Midwest Sales features regional representative offices throughout the Midwest under the direction of Jim Morehouse, president of the company.

"We provide personal calls that offer additional attention to your needs. Quality representation does not cost money; it makes money," said Morehouse.

All-Midwest Sales serves as the "specialty automotive aftermarket connection" and provides the following:

• Principle Function: The manufacturer representative's principle function is to represent the contracted manufacturer in a manner that coincides with their needs and image while being the eyes and ears for the manufacturer to keep them in tune with today's market in the areas represented.
• Who Will Benefit: The manufacturers that will benefit most are the companies that want to penetrate the wholesale and retail distribution markets in the most timely and efficient manner.
• Services: The most significant service that a manufacturer rep agency can provide is the depth of knowledge of their particular market and the ability to place more personnel in the field than would be economically viable for the manufacturer. The manufacturer gets to utilize the services of personnel that concentrate on a particular geographic and market area.

The manufacturer's representative develops relationships with distributors by knowing the territory and providing up-to-date product information, giving them the knowledge to market the products they represent.

The relationships are further developed by periodic visits to keep the jobber informed and ensure that they have a reliable source for the products they represent. All this activity allows the representative to harvest feedback from the manufacturer they represent.

The manufacturer's representative is also an extension of the manufacturer and its various departments. From technical support to shipping to accounting, the manufacturer's representative will aid the manufacturer and free up their time to proceed with other projects as needed. 

For more information, visit allmidwestsales.com.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA business members can access new research that will help them better understand how aftermarket consumers buy, sell and use specialty equipment parts by downloading the 2023 SEMA Market Report.

The report--which provides an overview of the size and scope of the U.S. specialty-equipment market--focuses heavily on consumer behavior and includes data on how vehicles are used, how aftermarket parts and accessories are installed, as well as what types of parts are bought and types of vehicles that are owned (segmented by age).

"Understanding your customers is essential for business success," said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. "The consumer insights section of this report offers critical research that businesses can use to better connect with their audience and elevate their strategies."

According to the report, younger drivers continue to be a very important and engaged part of the automotive specialty-equipment market. Younger drivers are more likely to be enthusiasts than older drivers and often buy more complex performance parts or accessories to make extensive modifications to their vehicles.

Post-pandemic, the industry is seeing some shift back to in-store shopping, though this industry has maintained a relatively large share of online purchases for many years. Many people, particularly younger shoppers, are turning to the purchase-online, in-store pickup options that have become available. These options combine the benefits of shopping from home, while also giving customers the immediacy of store pickup and the option to have a part professionally installed.

Download the report at sema.org/market-research.   

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Neil Ferguson, owner of SeatbeltPlanet.com, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer.

Get to know Ferguson in his interview with SEMA News, below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the restyling industry? 

Neil Ferguson: My business partner, Mike Bosley. 

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO? 

NF: It's a great community doing amazing things for the industry and their customers. 

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket? 

NF: Jump in and get your hands dirty--literally and figuratively. It's the best way to learn and meet people. 

SN: What is your dream vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend? 

NF: '80s Porsche 911; playing golf, hopefully someday driving my 911 to the golf course! 

SN: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

NF: Treat people how you want to be treated. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

NF: It's so much fun! Customers love their cars and it's fun to play a small part in helping them make it what they dream it will be. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

NF: Hanging out with my wife and our boys. 

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates will be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.

By the SEMA D.C. office 

Colorado's Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) has published a SEMA-opposed regulation that, if approved, would require the state to adopt California’s latest motor vehicle emissions laws through 2032 but stop short of banning the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars beginning in 2035. Colorado has historically followed California’s tailpipe laws.  

Once an advocate for individual choice in automobile purchases, Colorado is now flip-flopping. While initially rejecting California's ban on new internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035, Colorado is now pushing for an 80% zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate by 2032. This change in direction raises concerns about consumer choice, affordability, and the future of the automotive aftermarket industry.

Colorado's mixed messaging on automotive regulations could severely impact your ability to choose the vehicles you love. SEMA believes that Coloradans, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. The automotive industry is embracing new technology to make cars cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, alternative fuels, and improvements to the internal-combustion engine. The government should allow the market to continue to innovate all forms of technology that significantly reduce vehicle emissions.    

Click here to submit comments to Colorado's AQCC by October 3, 2023. 

For more information, please get in touch with Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

By the SEMA D.C. office

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released its final National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative (NECI) for 2024 through 2027, outlining its top enforcement priorities for the coming years. The EPA did not include "Stopping Aftermarket Defeat Device for Vehicles and Engines" on the NECI list. The agency returned enforcement of aftermarket parts to a standard "core" priority as it had been for many years until 2020.

"The EPA's decision to remove enforcement against aftermarket products from the NECI and return it to a standard priority is a recognition of our industry's commitment to emissions compliance and the progress we've made," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "I am proud of the investments SEMA has made to ensure our member companies are able to sell high-performance, emissions-compliant products that millions of automotive enthusiasts demand. SEMA looks forward to working with the EPA to provide aftermarket businesses with clear and consistent guidance regarding the types of modifications that are legal, as well as an effective certification program that companies can rely on."

The EPA proposed the NECI list of priorities in January for 2024 to 2027. Click here to read SEMA's official comment submitted earlier this year supporting the EPA's preliminary decision to remove "stopping aftermarket defeat devices for vehicles and engines" from the NECI. SEMA also worked with U.S. Representative Greg Pence (R-IN) and 12 bipartisan members of the U.S. House of Representatives who sent a letter to the EPA in support of the agency moving on from its enhanced enforcement against aftermarket parts. 

About SEMA Garage

The SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California and Plymouth, Michigan, provide emissions testing facilities to help our members demonstrate that their products are emissions-compliant at an affordable cost. The CARB-recognized SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar has helped aftermarket businesses gain approval for over 600 Executive Orders (EO). SEMA staff perform all tests (except for evaporative emissions) required for companies to obtain a CARB EO for gasoline and diesel vehicles. Building on the success of these efforts in California, SEMA has developed a robust test program designed to meet the requirements of the EPA's most recent tampering guidance, branded "SEMA Certified-Emissions," which provides aftermarket businesses with another path to demonstrate emissions compliance. For more information about SEMA Garage services, please visit semagarage.com.

This story was originally published on August 22, 2023. For more industry news, visit SEMANews.com and subscribe to SEMA News at the bottom of the webpage to get the latest updates straight to your inbox, twice a week.

By the SEMA D.C. office

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released its final National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative (NECI) for 2024 through 2027, outlining its top enforcement priorities for the coming years. The EPA did not include "Stopping Aftermarket Defeat Device for Vehicles and Engines" on the NECI list. The agency returned enforcement of aftermarket parts to a standard "core" priority as it had been for many years until 2020.

"The EPA's decision to remove enforcement against aftermarket products from the NECI and return it to a standard priority is a recognition of our industry's commitment to emissions compliance and the progress we've made," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "I am proud of the investments SEMA has made to ensure our member companies are able to sell high-performance, emissions-compliant products that millions of automotive enthusiasts demand. SEMA looks forward to working with the EPA to provide aftermarket businesses with clear and consistent guidance regarding the types of modifications that are legal, as well as an effective certification program that companies can rely on."

The EPA proposed the NECI list of priorities in January for 2024 to 2027. Click here to read SEMA's official comment submitted earlier this year supporting the EPA's preliminary decision to remove "stopping aftermarket defeat devices for vehicles and engines" from the NECI. SEMA also worked with U.S. Representative Greg Pence (R-IN) and 12 bipartisan members of the U.S. House of Representatives who sent a letter to the EPA in support of the agency moving on from its enhanced enforcement against aftermarket parts. 

About SEMA Garage

The SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California and Plymouth, Michigan, provide emissions testing facilities to help our members demonstrate that their products are emissions-compliant at an affordable cost. The CARB-recognized SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar has helped aftermarket businesses gain approval for over 600 Executive Orders (EO). SEMA staff perform all tests (except for evaporative emissions) required for companies to obtain a CARB EO for gasoline and diesel vehicles. Building on the success of these efforts in California, SEMA has developed a robust test program designed to meet the requirements of the EPA's most recent tampering guidance, branded "SEMA Certified-Emissions," which provides aftermarket businesses with another path to demonstrate emissions compliance. For more information about SEMA Garage services, please visit semagarage.com.

This story was originally published on August 22, 2023. For more industry news, visit SEMANews.com and subscribe to SEMA News at the bottom of the webpage to get the latest updates straight to your inbox, twice a week.