Thu, 06/07/2012 - 15:44
  hilux
The Toyota Hilux is a best-selling light truck in a growing number of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, El Salvador, Bolivia, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay and Peru. The vehicle is not sold in the United States or Canada but is sold in 135 countries worldwide.
   

Sign up for a slot at one of three measuring sessions this summer for the Toyota Hilux—a vehicle widely sold overseas but not available in the United States. The ’12 model—the seventh edition of this one-ton double-cab 4x4 pickup, which is sold in 135 countries worldwide—is expected to arrive on U.S. shores this summer and will be available to members to prototype products.

“This is the first time the association has made a vehicle available from outside the United States,” said Linda Spencer, SEMA director of international and government relations. “We’re excited about the potential the Hilux represents to our members who are looking to generate sales overseas.”

The initial session will be held at SEMA's Diamond Bar, California, headquarters this summer, with other measuring sessions in the Midwest and on the East Coast.

The vehicle was actually purchased through a partnership with the U.S. government, and will be available for companies to bring to their facility for additional measurement/fitment checks. Register now for the ’12 Toyota Hilux Measuring Session.

Questions? Contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 15:44
  hilux
The Toyota Hilux is a best-selling light truck in a growing number of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, El Salvador, Bolivia, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay and Peru. The vehicle is not sold in the United States or Canada but is sold in 135 countries worldwide.
   

Sign up for a slot at one of three measuring sessions this summer for the Toyota Hilux—a vehicle widely sold overseas but not available in the United States. The ’12 model—the seventh edition of this one-ton double-cab 4x4 pickup, which is sold in 135 countries worldwide—is expected to arrive on U.S. shores this summer and will be available to members to prototype products.

“This is the first time the association has made a vehicle available from outside the United States,” said Linda Spencer, SEMA director of international and government relations. “We’re excited about the potential the Hilux represents to our members who are looking to generate sales overseas.”

The initial session will be held at SEMA's Diamond Bar, California, headquarters this summer, with other measuring sessions in the Midwest and on the East Coast.

The vehicle was actually purchased through a partnership with the U.S. government, and will be available for companies to bring to their facility for additional measurement/fitment checks. Register now for the ’12 Toyota Hilux Measuring Session.

Questions? Contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 15:02
  automobile trade show, auto show, automobile events, sema show
The Exhibitor Manual, the go-to resource for SEMA Show exhibitors for Show-related information and promotions, is now available online at www.SEMAShow.com/esm.
   

The Exhibitor Manual (ESM) for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online at www.SEMAShow.com/esm. The Exhibitor Manual is the go-to resource for SEMA Show exhibitors and contains the forms, information and tools needed to help shape a successful SEMA Show experience.

The online ESM features an easy-to-use format to make it simple for exhibitors to find what they need any time of the day or night. The ESM is the first place to reference when exhibitors need answers to their Show-related questions, and it includes the forms required to participate in the Show's promotional opportunities, such as the New Product Showcase.

The SEMA Show New Product Showcase provides exhibitors with an excellent opportunity to draw attention to their products. The showcase shines the spotlight on the year's newest products, designs and breakthrough innovations, and there is also a program for exhibitors to display previously introduced products. This combination helps companies display their latest creations alongside their best sellers, and provides a visual example for buyers and media about what a company offers. And, as always, the first product category entered in the New Products Showcase is free. 

"The manual not only contains the forms and details needed to participate in the SEMA Show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications, "but it also features resources and information to assist exhibitors with Show planning and outreach, such as the budget checklist, contacts for Show services, checklist of deadlines, advertising opportunities, and access to programs to assist product marketing and promotion." MacGillivray concluded, "We encourage exhibitors to get familiar with the Exhibitor Manual early in their Show preparation."

The ESM page online is segmented into sections, which include Hotels, Parking and Travel; Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities; Freeman Ordering Procedures; Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships; and more.

There are more than 1,800 exhibitors currently participating in the Priority Space Selection process for the 2012 SEMA Show, however, companies that would like to exhibit can still secure booth space through the "Buy A Booth" link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability.

The Priority Space Selection process runs through June 22. Details about the 2012 SEMA Show, including information on how to attend and exhibit, are available at www.SEMAShow.com.

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 15:02
  automobile trade show, auto show, automobile events, sema show
The Exhibitor Manual, the go-to resource for SEMA Show exhibitors for Show-related information and promotions, is now available online at www.SEMAShow.com/esm.
   

The Exhibitor Manual (ESM) for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online at www.SEMAShow.com/esm. The Exhibitor Manual is the go-to resource for SEMA Show exhibitors and contains the forms, information and tools needed to help shape a successful SEMA Show experience.

The online ESM features an easy-to-use format to make it simple for exhibitors to find what they need any time of the day or night. The ESM is the first place to reference when exhibitors need answers to their Show-related questions, and it includes the forms required to participate in the Show's promotional opportunities, such as the New Product Showcase.

The SEMA Show New Product Showcase provides exhibitors with an excellent opportunity to draw attention to their products. The showcase shines the spotlight on the year's newest products, designs and breakthrough innovations, and there is also a program for exhibitors to display previously introduced products. This combination helps companies display their latest creations alongside their best sellers, and provides a visual example for buyers and media about what a company offers. And, as always, the first product category entered in the New Products Showcase is free. 

"The manual not only contains the forms and details needed to participate in the SEMA Show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications, "but it also features resources and information to assist exhibitors with Show planning and outreach, such as the budget checklist, contacts for Show services, checklist of deadlines, advertising opportunities, and access to programs to assist product marketing and promotion." MacGillivray concluded, "We encourage exhibitors to get familiar with the Exhibitor Manual early in their Show preparation."

The ESM page online is segmented into sections, which include Hotels, Parking and Travel; Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities; Freeman Ordering Procedures; Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships; and more.

There are more than 1,800 exhibitors currently participating in the Priority Space Selection process for the 2012 SEMA Show, however, companies that would like to exhibit can still secure booth space through the "Buy A Booth" link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability.

The Priority Space Selection process runs through June 22. Details about the 2012 SEMA Show, including information on how to attend and exhibit, are available at www.SEMAShow.com.

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 14:22
  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co., “High Gear” was the concept selected in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. Thousands voted for the satin black luxury Mustang concept, which will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show and then be auctioned on eBay to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund.
   
Thousands of fans voted for a satin black luxury Mustang concept in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. The project, which is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and SEMA, invited the public to view three concepts online and vote for the one they would like to see built by a group of female volunteers.

The winning concept known as “High Gear” was designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co. Inspired by international products in categories, such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture, the concept is meant to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power. Highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, a satin-black body, plush quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

“We appreciate our readers and fans helping us determine which concept will be used for this very exciting project,” said Doug Evans, executive vice president of Source Interlink Media (SIM). SIM, a partner in the project, hosted the voting on several of its websites and will also host the physical build at its El Segundo, California, headquarters.

“The concept selected by everyone who voted is amazing,” continued Evans. “It will be very exciting to see the vehicle transformed in just eight short weeks by the dedicated group of women participating in the project. The drive and talent this collaboration of women from the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Ford and Source Interlink Media brings to this project is nothing short of phenomenal.”

  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Female SBN members will perform all of the modifications SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women.
   
As title sponsor of the project, Ford Motor Co. donated a ’13 Ford Mustang GT for the project. Female members of the SBN will perform the hands-on modifications from July to August. The finished vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, then will be auctioned off on eBay to raise money for the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators.

The SBN Vehicle Build Task Force is comprised of Task Force Chair Rose Kawasaki (Exports International), Project Vehicle Coordinator Sherry Kollien (Ford Motor Co.), Assembly Coordinator S. Kellie Colf (eTool Developers), PR/Media Coordinator Camee Edelbrock (Schiefer Media Inc.) and Product Coordinator Susan Carpenter (JR Products). Advisors include Mike Spagnola (Street Scene Equipment), Joel Ayres (Bedslide/Takit) and Marla Moore (Hypertech).

To learn more about the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women, visit www.sema.org/SEMAMustangBuild or contact Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org.
Thu, 06/07/2012 - 14:22
  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co., “High Gear” was the concept selected in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. Thousands voted for the satin black luxury Mustang concept, which will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show and then be auctioned on eBay to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund.
   
Thousands of fans voted for a satin black luxury Mustang concept in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. The project, which is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and SEMA, invited the public to view three concepts online and vote for the one they would like to see built by a group of female volunteers.

The winning concept known as “High Gear” was designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co. Inspired by international products in categories, such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture, the concept is meant to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power. Highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, a satin-black body, plush quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

“We appreciate our readers and fans helping us determine which concept will be used for this very exciting project,” said Doug Evans, executive vice president of Source Interlink Media (SIM). SIM, a partner in the project, hosted the voting on several of its websites and will also host the physical build at its El Segundo, California, headquarters.

“The concept selected by everyone who voted is amazing,” continued Evans. “It will be very exciting to see the vehicle transformed in just eight short weeks by the dedicated group of women participating in the project. The drive and talent this collaboration of women from the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Ford and Source Interlink Media brings to this project is nothing short of phenomenal.”

  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Female SBN members will perform all of the modifications SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women.
   
As title sponsor of the project, Ford Motor Co. donated a ’13 Ford Mustang GT for the project. Female members of the SBN will perform the hands-on modifications from July to August. The finished vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, then will be auctioned off on eBay to raise money for the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators.

The SBN Vehicle Build Task Force is comprised of Task Force Chair Rose Kawasaki (Exports International), Project Vehicle Coordinator Sherry Kollien (Ford Motor Co.), Assembly Coordinator S. Kellie Colf (eTool Developers), PR/Media Coordinator Camee Edelbrock (Schiefer Media Inc.) and Product Coordinator Susan Carpenter (JR Products). Advisors include Mike Spagnola (Street Scene Equipment), Joel Ayres (Bedslide/Takit) and Marla Moore (Hypertech).

To learn more about the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women, visit www.sema.org/SEMAMustangBuild or contact Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org.
Thu, 06/07/2012 - 14:22
  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co., “High Gear” was the concept selected in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. Thousands voted for the satin black luxury Mustang concept, which will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show and then be auctioned on eBay to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund.
   
Thousands of fans voted for a satin black luxury Mustang concept in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. The project, which is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and SEMA, invited the public to view three concepts online and vote for the one they would like to see built by a group of female volunteers.

The winning concept known as “High Gear” was designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co. Inspired by international products in categories, such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture, the concept is meant to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power. Highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, a satin-black body, plush quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

“We appreciate our readers and fans helping us determine which concept will be used for this very exciting project,” said Doug Evans, executive vice president of Source Interlink Media (SIM). SIM, a partner in the project, hosted the voting on several of its websites and will also host the physical build at its El Segundo, California, headquarters.

“The concept selected by everyone who voted is amazing,” continued Evans. “It will be very exciting to see the vehicle transformed in just eight short weeks by the dedicated group of women participating in the project. The drive and talent this collaboration of women from the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Ford and Source Interlink Media brings to this project is nothing short of phenomenal.”

  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Female SBN members will perform all of the modifications SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women.
   
As title sponsor of the project, Ford Motor Co. donated a ’13 Ford Mustang GT for the project. Female members of the SBN will perform the hands-on modifications from July to August. The finished vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, then will be auctioned off on eBay to raise money for the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators.

The SBN Vehicle Build Task Force is comprised of Task Force Chair Rose Kawasaki (Exports International), Project Vehicle Coordinator Sherry Kollien (Ford Motor Co.), Assembly Coordinator S. Kellie Colf (eTool Developers), PR/Media Coordinator Camee Edelbrock (Schiefer Media Inc.) and Product Coordinator Susan Carpenter (JR Products). Advisors include Mike Spagnola (Street Scene Equipment), Joel Ayres (Bedslide/Takit) and Marla Moore (Hypertech).

To learn more about the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women, visit www.sema.org/SEMAMustangBuild or contact Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org.
Thu, 06/07/2012 - 14:22
  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co., “High Gear” was the concept selected in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. Thousands voted for the satin black luxury Mustang concept, which will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show and then be auctioned on eBay to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund.
   
Thousands of fans voted for a satin black luxury Mustang concept in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. The project, which is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and SEMA, invited the public to view three concepts online and vote for the one they would like to see built by a group of female volunteers.

The winning concept known as “High Gear” was designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co. Inspired by international products in categories, such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture, the concept is meant to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power. Highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, a satin-black body, plush quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

“We appreciate our readers and fans helping us determine which concept will be used for this very exciting project,” said Doug Evans, executive vice president of Source Interlink Media (SIM). SIM, a partner in the project, hosted the voting on several of its websites and will also host the physical build at its El Segundo, California, headquarters.

“The concept selected by everyone who voted is amazing,” continued Evans. “It will be very exciting to see the vehicle transformed in just eight short weeks by the dedicated group of women participating in the project. The drive and talent this collaboration of women from the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Ford and Source Interlink Media brings to this project is nothing short of phenomenal.”

  future vehicles, high gear mustang concept, sema mustang build powered by women
Female SBN members will perform all of the modifications SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women.
   
As title sponsor of the project, Ford Motor Co. donated a ’13 Ford Mustang GT for the project. Female members of the SBN will perform the hands-on modifications from July to August. The finished vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, then will be auctioned off on eBay to raise money for the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators.

The SBN Vehicle Build Task Force is comprised of Task Force Chair Rose Kawasaki (Exports International), Project Vehicle Coordinator Sherry Kollien (Ford Motor Co.), Assembly Coordinator S. Kellie Colf (eTool Developers), PR/Media Coordinator Camee Edelbrock (Schiefer Media Inc.) and Product Coordinator Susan Carpenter (JR Products). Advisors include Mike Spagnola (Street Scene Equipment), Joel Ayres (Bedslide/Takit) and Marla Moore (Hypertech).

To learn more about the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women, visit www.sema.org/SEMAMustangBuild or contact Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org.
Thu, 06/07/2012 - 13:43
  automotive aftermarket events, sema installation banquet & gala fundraiser
The late Bill France Sr. will be inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame during the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on July 27. In addition to Bill France Sr., the inductees into the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame are Nick Arias Jr., Mark Heffington and Bob Larivee Sr.
   

The late Bill France Sr. will be honored and formerly inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame during the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center, Pomona, California. In addition to France, the inductees into the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame are Nick Arias Jr., Mark Heffington and Bob Larivee Sr.

Bill France Sr. founded NASCAR—the most recognized and successful stock-car racing series in the world. Learning from his early days as a racer and fledgling promoter, France envisioned a single, firmly governed sanctioning body as a key necessity for stock-car racing to succeed on a large scale. Known as "Big Bill" in the racing circles, his efforts and ideas helped pioneer developments in safety, organization, infrastructure, scoring and purses—developments that enabled racing to reach new levels of professionalism and respect within the arena of professional sports.

SEMA's Hall of Fame designation is the most prestigious honor that the association can bestow on an individual. In addition to the induction of the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame class, the gala celebration will also feature the introduction of the newest SEMA Board of Directors, and the outgoing Board members will be officially recognized and thanked for their volunteerism and service. 



The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser is part of the association's Leadership Days—a three-day gathering of industry leaders, volunteers and SEMA staff working together to identify and address industry and business challenges, while celebrating the specialty-equipment industry and the spirit of volunteerism. Leadership Days also includes the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, where mini pinewood drag racers built by SEMA members, staff and children from Victory Junction and Childhelp race against the clock for bragging rights. A worthwhile cause, proceeds from the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefit both Victory Junction and Childhelp.

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. Proceeds from ticket sales will also benefit Childhelp and Victory Junction.

For tickets and more information, visit www.sema.org/galatix or contact Michelle Harris at michelleh@sema.org or 909-978-6684.

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 13:43
  automotive aftermarket events, sema installation banquet & gala fundraiser
The late Bill France Sr. will be inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame during the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on July 27. In addition to Bill France Sr., the inductees into the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame are Nick Arias Jr., Mark Heffington and Bob Larivee Sr.
   

The late Bill France Sr. will be honored and formerly inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame during the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center, Pomona, California. In addition to France, the inductees into the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame are Nick Arias Jr., Mark Heffington and Bob Larivee Sr.

Bill France Sr. founded NASCAR—the most recognized and successful stock-car racing series in the world. Learning from his early days as a racer and fledgling promoter, France envisioned a single, firmly governed sanctioning body as a key necessity for stock-car racing to succeed on a large scale. Known as "Big Bill" in the racing circles, his efforts and ideas helped pioneer developments in safety, organization, infrastructure, scoring and purses—developments that enabled racing to reach new levels of professionalism and respect within the arena of professional sports.

SEMA's Hall of Fame designation is the most prestigious honor that the association can bestow on an individual. In addition to the induction of the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame class, the gala celebration will also feature the introduction of the newest SEMA Board of Directors, and the outgoing Board members will be officially recognized and thanked for their volunteerism and service. 



The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser is part of the association's Leadership Days—a three-day gathering of industry leaders, volunteers and SEMA staff working together to identify and address industry and business challenges, while celebrating the specialty-equipment industry and the spirit of volunteerism. Leadership Days also includes the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, where mini pinewood drag racers built by SEMA members, staff and children from Victory Junction and Childhelp race against the clock for bragging rights. A worthwhile cause, proceeds from the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefit both Victory Junction and Childhelp.

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. Proceeds from ticket sales will also benefit Childhelp and Victory Junction.

For tickets and more information, visit www.sema.org/galatix or contact Michelle Harris at michelleh@sema.org or 909-978-6684.