SEMA News - September 2009

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Mercedes-Benz S Class When it Hits: A U.S. release date of August 2009 is expected for this coupe cruiser. What Priddy Says: Mercedes-Benz is working on a new CL, which Priddy says will be more appropriately named the S-Class Coupe. Priddy notes a reworked front bumper and a larger, more angular grille. A new set of crossbars is also visible in the grille opening. LED daytime headlights and possibly LED taillamps have been added as well. It’s only a matter of time, Priddy adds, before her cameras catch an updated AMG model with more aggressive body work and a 6.3L V8.
Peugeot 308 RC-Z When it Hits: Peugeot first showed the 308 RC-Z concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but Priddy says these spy shots indicate that the French automaker intends to build the Audi TT fighter and start production within a year. What Priddy Says: Competitors in this field are fierce, so the car will have to produce a very special lineup of powertrains to run alongside them. The RC-Z will probably hit the streets with the same engines as higher-level 308 models, and there’s a rumored 250hp powerplant. Turbo diesels will probably be included as well.   PSA Peugeot Citroen is realigning itself, Priddy adds. While Citroen is going up-market with models such as the DS line, Peugeot is keeping a harder tab on the sporting side of things, such as Le Mans and the 308 RC-Z.
Dodge Ram R/T When it Hits: Chrysler hasn’t yet announced any changes to the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500, but this spy shot of an instrumented test truck appears to give away two revisions intended for the performance-oriented, two-wheel-drive Ram R/T model. What Priddy Says: The 22-inch, five-spoke, painted-aluminum wheels with low-profile Goodyear Fortera P285/45R22 tires are new (the 2009 Ram R/T’s rolling stock was 20-inch, five-spoke, polished-aluminum wheels with P275/60R20 Goodyear Wrangler HPs). The second update appears to be the addition of a removable soft tonneau cover. The R/T’s 4.10 rear axle and “loose” torque converter, along with its 390hp, 407 lb-ft torque 5.7-liter Hemi V8, helps the muscletruck do 0 to 60 in just under six seconds.
550+ HP Cadillac Coupe When it Hits: Production is likely to start in the summer of 2010 at the Lansing Grand River factory. What Priddy Says: “Compared to the prototypes we saw last year, these new prototypes look almost production ready, down to the two massive, center-mount exhaust outlets, larger, sportier wheels and V-series badging,” Priddy says. “We can also see that this new prototype is not sporting cross-drilled rotors as the first prototypes were. Additionally, pieces of black tape cover the V-series badges just behind the front wheels.”   Other V-series parts include a wire mesh grille, wider tires, large brake calipers and power dome hood—under which sits the 6.2L, supercharged V8 known as the LSA.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - September 2009

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Mercedes-Benz S Class When it Hits: A U.S. release date of August 2009 is expected for this coupe cruiser. What Priddy Says: Mercedes-Benz is working on a new CL, which Priddy says will be more appropriately named the S-Class Coupe. Priddy notes a reworked front bumper and a larger, more angular grille. A new set of crossbars is also visible in the grille opening. LED daytime headlights and possibly LED taillamps have been added as well. It’s only a matter of time, Priddy adds, before her cameras catch an updated AMG model with more aggressive body work and a 6.3L V8.
Peugeot 308 RC-Z When it Hits: Peugeot first showed the 308 RC-Z concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but Priddy says these spy shots indicate that the French automaker intends to build the Audi TT fighter and start production within a year. What Priddy Says: Competitors in this field are fierce, so the car will have to produce a very special lineup of powertrains to run alongside them. The RC-Z will probably hit the streets with the same engines as higher-level 308 models, and there’s a rumored 250hp powerplant. Turbo diesels will probably be included as well.   PSA Peugeot Citroen is realigning itself, Priddy adds. While Citroen is going up-market with models such as the DS line, Peugeot is keeping a harder tab on the sporting side of things, such as Le Mans and the 308 RC-Z.
Dodge Ram R/T When it Hits: Chrysler hasn’t yet announced any changes to the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500, but this spy shot of an instrumented test truck appears to give away two revisions intended for the performance-oriented, two-wheel-drive Ram R/T model. What Priddy Says: The 22-inch, five-spoke, painted-aluminum wheels with low-profile Goodyear Fortera P285/45R22 tires are new (the 2009 Ram R/T’s rolling stock was 20-inch, five-spoke, polished-aluminum wheels with P275/60R20 Goodyear Wrangler HPs). The second update appears to be the addition of a removable soft tonneau cover. The R/T’s 4.10 rear axle and “loose” torque converter, along with its 390hp, 407 lb-ft torque 5.7-liter Hemi V8, helps the muscletruck do 0 to 60 in just under six seconds.
550+ HP Cadillac Coupe When it Hits: Production is likely to start in the summer of 2010 at the Lansing Grand River factory. What Priddy Says: “Compared to the prototypes we saw last year, these new prototypes look almost production ready, down to the two massive, center-mount exhaust outlets, larger, sportier wheels and V-series badging,” Priddy says. “We can also see that this new prototype is not sporting cross-drilled rotors as the first prototypes were. Additionally, pieces of black tape cover the V-series badges just behind the front wheels.”   Other V-series parts include a wire mesh grille, wider tires, large brake calipers and power dome hood—under which sits the 6.2L, supercharged V8 known as the LSA.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - September 2009

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Mercedes-Benz S Class When it Hits: A U.S. release date of August 2009 is expected for this coupe cruiser. What Priddy Says: Mercedes-Benz is working on a new CL, which Priddy says will be more appropriately named the S-Class Coupe. Priddy notes a reworked front bumper and a larger, more angular grille. A new set of crossbars is also visible in the grille opening. LED daytime headlights and possibly LED taillamps have been added as well. It’s only a matter of time, Priddy adds, before her cameras catch an updated AMG model with more aggressive body work and a 6.3L V8.
Peugeot 308 RC-Z When it Hits: Peugeot first showed the 308 RC-Z concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but Priddy says these spy shots indicate that the French automaker intends to build the Audi TT fighter and start production within a year. What Priddy Says: Competitors in this field are fierce, so the car will have to produce a very special lineup of powertrains to run alongside them. The RC-Z will probably hit the streets with the same engines as higher-level 308 models, and there’s a rumored 250hp powerplant. Turbo diesels will probably be included as well.   PSA Peugeot Citroen is realigning itself, Priddy adds. While Citroen is going up-market with models such as the DS line, Peugeot is keeping a harder tab on the sporting side of things, such as Le Mans and the 308 RC-Z.
Dodge Ram R/T When it Hits: Chrysler hasn’t yet announced any changes to the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500, but this spy shot of an instrumented test truck appears to give away two revisions intended for the performance-oriented, two-wheel-drive Ram R/T model. What Priddy Says: The 22-inch, five-spoke, painted-aluminum wheels with low-profile Goodyear Fortera P285/45R22 tires are new (the 2009 Ram R/T’s rolling stock was 20-inch, five-spoke, polished-aluminum wheels with P275/60R20 Goodyear Wrangler HPs). The second update appears to be the addition of a removable soft tonneau cover. The R/T’s 4.10 rear axle and “loose” torque converter, along with its 390hp, 407 lb-ft torque 5.7-liter Hemi V8, helps the muscletruck do 0 to 60 in just under six seconds.
550+ HP Cadillac Coupe When it Hits: Production is likely to start in the summer of 2010 at the Lansing Grand River factory. What Priddy Says: “Compared to the prototypes we saw last year, these new prototypes look almost production ready, down to the two massive, center-mount exhaust outlets, larger, sportier wheels and V-series badging,” Priddy says. “We can also see that this new prototype is not sporting cross-drilled rotors as the first prototypes were. Additionally, pieces of black tape cover the V-series badges just behind the front wheels.”   Other V-series parts include a wire mesh grille, wider tires, large brake calipers and power dome hood—under which sits the 6.2L, supercharged V8 known as the LSA.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - September 2009

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Mercedes-Benz S Class When it Hits: A U.S. release date of August 2009 is expected for this coupe cruiser. What Priddy Says: Mercedes-Benz is working on a new CL, which Priddy says will be more appropriately named the S-Class Coupe. Priddy notes a reworked front bumper and a larger, more angular grille. A new set of crossbars is also visible in the grille opening. LED daytime headlights and possibly LED taillamps have been added as well. It’s only a matter of time, Priddy adds, before her cameras catch an updated AMG model with more aggressive body work and a 6.3L V8.
Peugeot 308 RC-Z When it Hits: Peugeot first showed the 308 RC-Z concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but Priddy says these spy shots indicate that the French automaker intends to build the Audi TT fighter and start production within a year. What Priddy Says: Competitors in this field are fierce, so the car will have to produce a very special lineup of powertrains to run alongside them. The RC-Z will probably hit the streets with the same engines as higher-level 308 models, and there’s a rumored 250hp powerplant. Turbo diesels will probably be included as well.   PSA Peugeot Citroen is realigning itself, Priddy adds. While Citroen is going up-market with models such as the DS line, Peugeot is keeping a harder tab on the sporting side of things, such as Le Mans and the 308 RC-Z.
Dodge Ram R/T When it Hits: Chrysler hasn’t yet announced any changes to the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500, but this spy shot of an instrumented test truck appears to give away two revisions intended for the performance-oriented, two-wheel-drive Ram R/T model. What Priddy Says: The 22-inch, five-spoke, painted-aluminum wheels with low-profile Goodyear Fortera P285/45R22 tires are new (the 2009 Ram R/T’s rolling stock was 20-inch, five-spoke, polished-aluminum wheels with P275/60R20 Goodyear Wrangler HPs). The second update appears to be the addition of a removable soft tonneau cover. The R/T’s 4.10 rear axle and “loose” torque converter, along with its 390hp, 407 lb-ft torque 5.7-liter Hemi V8, helps the muscletruck do 0 to 60 in just under six seconds.
550+ HP Cadillac Coupe When it Hits: Production is likely to start in the summer of 2010 at the Lansing Grand River factory. What Priddy Says: “Compared to the prototypes we saw last year, these new prototypes look almost production ready, down to the two massive, center-mount exhaust outlets, larger, sportier wheels and V-series badging,” Priddy says. “We can also see that this new prototype is not sporting cross-drilled rotors as the first prototypes were. Additionally, pieces of black tape cover the V-series badges just behind the front wheels.”   Other V-series parts include a wire mesh grille, wider tires, large brake calipers and power dome hood—under which sits the 6.2L, supercharged V8 known as the LSA.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - September 2009
SEMA News Bureau

As the SEMA Show quickly approaches, news and excitement increases. One announcement that made headlines in hundreds of publications was that Ford Motor Company will be the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show. Ford has long been a partner of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, having supported and participated in vehicle technology sharing initiatives and designing some of the industry’s most accessory-friendly vehicles.

Perhaps that’s why media outlets shared the excitement and reported the news with their readers. Here are just a few examples of what the media had to say about Ford as the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show.

“Ford to be the Featured Automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show” — CarDomain Editor-in-Chief Rob Einaudi opened by expressing his excitement for the SEMA Show and went on to share the news with CarDomain readers, along with countless photos of Ford vehicles taken from last year’s SEMA Show.
“Ford to Flex Its Muscle at 2009 SEMA Show” — Edmunds Inside Line This story in Edmunds Inside Line noted that, along with the announcement of Ford as the featured automaker, the SEMA Show is alive and poised to provide some “much-needed high-powered entertainment as the U.S. begins its slow crawl out of recession.” Keep your eyes and ears open for more news. Announcements about new features and happenings at the SEMA Show will be made as details are confirmed.
“Ford Named Featured Marquee for 2009 SEMA Show” — Autoblog Autoblog Editor Damon Lavrinc described the Ford announcement as a faint light glowing during this otherwise dark time. “With automakers scaling back at some of the world’s largest auto expos, the 2009 aftermarket extravaganza is anticipating one of its highest turnouts in years, both from exhibitors and attendees.”

SEMA News - September 2009
SEMA News Bureau

As the SEMA Show quickly approaches, news and excitement increases. One announcement that made headlines in hundreds of publications was that Ford Motor Company will be the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show. Ford has long been a partner of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, having supported and participated in vehicle technology sharing initiatives and designing some of the industry’s most accessory-friendly vehicles.

Perhaps that’s why media outlets shared the excitement and reported the news with their readers. Here are just a few examples of what the media had to say about Ford as the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show.

“Ford to be the Featured Automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show” — CarDomain Editor-in-Chief Rob Einaudi opened by expressing his excitement for the SEMA Show and went on to share the news with CarDomain readers, along with countless photos of Ford vehicles taken from last year’s SEMA Show.
“Ford to Flex Its Muscle at 2009 SEMA Show” — Edmunds Inside Line This story in Edmunds Inside Line noted that, along with the announcement of Ford as the featured automaker, the SEMA Show is alive and poised to provide some “much-needed high-powered entertainment as the U.S. begins its slow crawl out of recession.” Keep your eyes and ears open for more news. Announcements about new features and happenings at the SEMA Show will be made as details are confirmed.
“Ford Named Featured Marquee for 2009 SEMA Show” — Autoblog Autoblog Editor Damon Lavrinc described the Ford announcement as a faint light glowing during this otherwise dark time. “With automakers scaling back at some of the world’s largest auto expos, the 2009 aftermarket extravaganza is anticipating one of its highest turnouts in years, both from exhibitors and attendees.”

SEMA News - September 2009
SEMA News Bureau

As the SEMA Show quickly approaches, news and excitement increases. One announcement that made headlines in hundreds of publications was that Ford Motor Company will be the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show. Ford has long been a partner of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, having supported and participated in vehicle technology sharing initiatives and designing some of the industry’s most accessory-friendly vehicles.

Perhaps that’s why media outlets shared the excitement and reported the news with their readers. Here are just a few examples of what the media had to say about Ford as the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show.

“Ford to be the Featured Automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show” — CarDomain Editor-in-Chief Rob Einaudi opened by expressing his excitement for the SEMA Show and went on to share the news with CarDomain readers, along with countless photos of Ford vehicles taken from last year’s SEMA Show.
“Ford to Flex Its Muscle at 2009 SEMA Show” — Edmunds Inside Line This story in Edmunds Inside Line noted that, along with the announcement of Ford as the featured automaker, the SEMA Show is alive and poised to provide some “much-needed high-powered entertainment as the U.S. begins its slow crawl out of recession.” Keep your eyes and ears open for more news. Announcements about new features and happenings at the SEMA Show will be made as details are confirmed.
“Ford Named Featured Marquee for 2009 SEMA Show” — Autoblog Autoblog Editor Damon Lavrinc described the Ford announcement as a faint light glowing during this otherwise dark time. “With automakers scaling back at some of the world’s largest auto expos, the 2009 aftermarket extravaganza is anticipating one of its highest turnouts in years, both from exhibitors and attendees.”

SEMA News - September 2009

By Steve McDonald

LEGISLATIVE AND TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

California

Legislative Automotive Study Group: California Assemblymember Ted Gaines has formed an informal California Legislative Automotive Study Group, aimed at protecting and raising awareness of the “state’s automotive industry and the jobs it creates.” Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes will co-chair the group. The group plans to look into ways to “explore new environmentally friendly technologies and innovations” as well as promoting the off-road and auto enthusiast markets, which Gaines says accounts for 200,000 jobs in California. SEMA is contacting group members to offer its assistance and support.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it will grant a waiver to California to allow the state to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks. Until at least 2016, however, California will pursue the national approach adopted by the Obama Administration. The decision ends a seven-year battle by California to establish standards to limit emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. In 2007, the Bush Administration blocked implementation of the California CO2 rule, which had been adopted by 13 other states. Since the federal standards will not begin until 2012, the waiver technically allows California and other states to enforce their own standards. More importantly, the waiver will permit California to pursue stricter standards after 2016.

Tire Fuel Efficiency: California has issued a regulatory proposal to establish a tire fuel-efficiency rating system. The regulation is based on a 2003 California law mandating a program to provide consumers with information about the fuel efficiency of replacement tires. The law contains a SEMA provision exempting manufacturers of tires that have the same SKU, plant and year and have been produced or imported in annual units of less than 15,000. California regulators are proposing a program that would assign a “fuel-efficient tire” ranking to the top 15% of tires with the lowest rolling resistance within their size and load class. All other tested tires would be ranked as “tires that are not fuel efficient.” If enacted, the testing program would take effect in mid 2011. Manufacturers would also be required to report other tire information, such as load index, federal Uniform Tire Quality Grading System rating and speed rating.

Connecticut

Vehicle Noise: SEMA helped defeat legislation that would require motor vehicles and devices to be operated, constructed and adjusted to prevent unnecessary or unusual noise. The bill did not define what constituted unnecessary or unusual noise. SEMA also persuaded lawmakers not to pass legislation that sought to provide an incentive to localities to increase the number of citations issued for violation of vehicle noise regulations.

North Carolina

Scrappage: SEMA persuaded North Carolina legislators not to consider legislation that would have implemented a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old. Participants would have received around $1,000 to $1,500 to scrap their cars and purchase current-year vehicles under 10,000 pounds or from the previous three model years. All trade-in vehicles could have been destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest. Had this effort been successful, hobbyists could have been denied the availability of vintage cars and parts for restoration projects.

Oregon

Aftermarket Parts: The Oregon House and Senate approved an alternative to legislation that originally sought to prohibit the sale and distribution of aftermarket motor vehicle parts if alternatives are available that “decrease greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.” Under the alternative, negotiated between SEMA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the bill would only give the department authority to adopt the present California certification process for aftermarket emissions-related parts, allowing parts manufacturers to meet one uniform standard rather than a patchwork of multiple state standards. The amended legislation will also incorporate a California law that requires state regulators to develop a tire fuel-efficiency program for passenger car and light-truck replacement tires. As in California, Oregon includes a SEMA-drafted provision to exempt limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually), deep-tread snow tires, limited-use spares, motorcycle tires and tires manufactured for use on off-road vehicles. The bill will now be transmitted to the governor for his signature and enactment into law.

Tennessee

Antique Vehicles: Legislation to amend the state’s current law defining antique motor vehicles to also permit use of these vehicles for “selling, testing the operation of or obtaining repairs” was signed into law by Governor Phil Bredesen. The bill had originally contained a SEMA-supported provision to allow use for everyday general transportation. In addition to the new allowances, the Tennessee law continues to permit use of antique vehicles for club activities, exhibits, tours and for general transportation on Saturday and Sunday.

Federal Update

Health Care Reform: Congress is working this summer to complete House and Senate bills to overhaul how Americans gain access to affordable health care insurance. The ultimate goal for congressional Democrats is to finalize a single bill this fall to be sent to President Obama. Given the complexity of the issue and its financial ramifications, a number of reform measures have been proposed and debated. Topics that are being simultaneously addressed include providing expanded coverage, cost containment, improved quality, simplified administration and equitable financing. SEMA continues to support cost-containment measures, such as allowing small businesses to gain access to national or large state coverage pools. SEMA’s advocacy efforts are coordinated with the Small Business Coalition for Affordable Healthcare and the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. House of Representatives passed landmark legislation to establish national limits on greenhouse gases and an emissions credit trading system. The bill’s intent is to gradually switch the nation from fossil fuels to sources of “clean” power, such as wind and solar energy. The legislation would require a 17% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2020 and 80% by 2050, based on 2005 levels. The primary targets are large stationary source emitters such as powerplants, factories and refineries. The bill would establish a market for issuing CO2 permits that could then be bought and sold as a mechanism for regulating emissions limits. This approach has been adopted in Europe and is similar to the EPA’s acid rain program, which limits sulfur dioxide from coal-fired powerplants and other sources. Auto tailpipe emissions would be regulated under a previously announced Obama Administration program to link CO2 emissions to the CAFE standards (since CO2 is released in proportion to the amount of carbon-based fuel that is burned.) This approach is supported by SEMA and the automakers, since it has the advantage of creating a single national CO2 standard. A Congressional study projects that the House bill will raise average household energy prices from $80 to $111. Opponents believe that the estimates are too low and that American jobs will migrate to countries that do not have equivalent climate regulations. The U.S. Senate is expected to consider its version of the legislation this fall. President Obama has made passage of the bill a top domestic priority.

Tire Fuel Efficiency: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a proposal to establish a tire fuel-efficiency rating system. The plans stem from a 2007 federal energy law mandating a program to provide consumers with information about the fuel efficiency of replacement tires. The law contains a SEMA provision exempting manufacturers of tires that have the same SKU, plant and year and have been produced or imported in annual units of less than 15,000. Under the federal program, tire manufacturers would be required to label their replacement tires for fuel efficiency, safety and durability based on performance tests established by NHTSA. The label would display a scale ranging from 0 to 100, with 100 being the best rating. NHTSA must issue a final rule by the end of 2009.

Light Truck Bumper Standard: NHTSA is seeking public comment on whether to apply the bumper standard to light trucks, vans and SUVs, since they now represent a large percentage of the nation’s car fleet. The bumper standard has only applied to passenger cars since it was implemented in 1972. The standard’s performance requirements are intended to prevent damage to the car body and safety-related equipment at 2½ mph across the full width of the front and rear bumper and 1½ mph on the corners.

Daytime Running Lamps: NHTSA denied a longstanding petition by General Motors that the agency mandate installation of daytime running lamps (DRLs) on all new light-duty vehicles. NHTSA’s decision was based on study results that it found did not provide substantial evidence of an overall safety benefit, although the lighting equipment may be beneficial under certain scenarios. NHTSA will continue to maintain a neutral position on the technology and allow manufacturers to make individual decisions on whether to voluntarily install DRLs. The DRLs must meet performance criteria issued by NHTSA, which are meant to address potential glare.

Aerosol Paints: The EPA has added 128 substances to the list of chemicals sometimes found in aerosol paints that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The primary substances include formaldehyde, ethanol, benzene, propane and vinyl chloride. VOCs react with nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight to form ground-level ozone. Spray paint manufacturers must now determine whether their products contain the substances and still comply with VOC emissions limits that took effect in 2009 for spray paints, primers and clear coatings. The EPA rule is similar to a California standard and applies to manufacturers and distributors of aerosol products that are used for both industrial applications and by do-it-yourselfers. The EPA believes that most producers already comply with the rule. Manufacturers that make limited quantities of aerosol spray paints containing VOCs (less than 7,500 kilograms/8.3 tons) on an annual basis are exempt from the regulation.

SEMA News - September 2009

By Steve McDonald

LEGISLATIVE AND TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

California

Legislative Automotive Study Group: California Assemblymember Ted Gaines has formed an informal California Legislative Automotive Study Group, aimed at protecting and raising awareness of the “state’s automotive industry and the jobs it creates.” Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes will co-chair the group. The group plans to look into ways to “explore new environmentally friendly technologies and innovations” as well as promoting the off-road and auto enthusiast markets, which Gaines says accounts for 200,000 jobs in California. SEMA is contacting group members to offer its assistance and support.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it will grant a waiver to California to allow the state to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks. Until at least 2016, however, California will pursue the national approach adopted by the Obama Administration. The decision ends a seven-year battle by California to establish standards to limit emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. In 2007, the Bush Administration blocked implementation of the California CO2 rule, which had been adopted by 13 other states. Since the federal standards will not begin until 2012, the waiver technically allows California and other states to enforce their own standards. More importantly, the waiver will permit California to pursue stricter standards after 2016.

Tire Fuel Efficiency: California has issued a regulatory proposal to establish a tire fuel-efficiency rating system. The regulation is based on a 2003 California law mandating a program to provide consumers with information about the fuel efficiency of replacement tires. The law contains a SEMA provision exempting manufacturers of tires that have the same SKU, plant and year and have been produced or imported in annual units of less than 15,000. California regulators are proposing a program that would assign a “fuel-efficient tire” ranking to the top 15% of tires with the lowest rolling resistance within their size and load class. All other tested tires would be ranked as “tires that are not fuel efficient.” If enacted, the testing program would take effect in mid 2011. Manufacturers would also be required to report other tire information, such as load index, federal Uniform Tire Quality Grading System rating and speed rating.

Connecticut

Vehicle Noise: SEMA helped defeat legislation that would require motor vehicles and devices to be operated, constructed and adjusted to prevent unnecessary or unusual noise. The bill did not define what constituted unnecessary or unusual noise. SEMA also persuaded lawmakers not to pass legislation that sought to provide an incentive to localities to increase the number of citations issued for violation of vehicle noise regulations.

North Carolina

Scrappage: SEMA persuaded North Carolina legislators not to consider legislation that would have implemented a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old. Participants would have received around $1,000 to $1,500 to scrap their cars and purchase current-year vehicles under 10,000 pounds or from the previous three model years. All trade-in vehicles could have been destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest. Had this effort been successful, hobbyists could have been denied the availability of vintage cars and parts for restoration projects.

Oregon

Aftermarket Parts: The Oregon House and Senate approved an alternative to legislation that originally sought to prohibit the sale and distribution of aftermarket motor vehicle parts if alternatives are available that “decrease greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.” Under the alternative, negotiated between SEMA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the bill would only give the department authority to adopt the present California certification process for aftermarket emissions-related parts, allowing parts manufacturers to meet one uniform standard rather than a patchwork of multiple state standards. The amended legislation will also incorporate a California law that requires state regulators to develop a tire fuel-efficiency program for passenger car and light-truck replacement tires. As in California, Oregon includes a SEMA-drafted provision to exempt limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually), deep-tread snow tires, limited-use spares, motorcycle tires and tires manufactured for use on off-road vehicles. The bill will now be transmitted to the governor for his signature and enactment into law.

Tennessee

Antique Vehicles: Legislation to amend the state’s current law defining antique motor vehicles to also permit use of these vehicles for “selling, testing the operation of or obtaining repairs” was signed into law by Governor Phil Bredesen. The bill had originally contained a SEMA-supported provision to allow use for everyday general transportation. In addition to the new allowances, the Tennessee law continues to permit use of antique vehicles for club activities, exhibits, tours and for general transportation on Saturday and Sunday.

Federal Update

Health Care Reform: Congress is working this summer to complete House and Senate bills to overhaul how Americans gain access to affordable health care insurance. The ultimate goal for congressional Democrats is to finalize a single bill this fall to be sent to President Obama. Given the complexity of the issue and its financial ramifications, a number of reform measures have been proposed and debated. Topics that are being simultaneously addressed include providing expanded coverage, cost containment, improved quality, simplified administration and equitable financing. SEMA continues to support cost-containment measures, such as allowing small businesses to gain access to national or large state coverage pools. SEMA’s advocacy efforts are coordinated with the Small Business Coalition for Affordable Healthcare and the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. House of Representatives passed landmark legislation to establish national limits on greenhouse gases and an emissions credit trading system. The bill’s intent is to gradually switch the nation from fossil fuels to sources of “clean” power, such as wind and solar energy. The legislation would require a 17% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2020 and 80% by 2050, based on 2005 levels. The primary targets are large stationary source emitters such as powerplants, factories and refineries. The bill would establish a market for issuing CO2 permits that could then be bought and sold as a mechanism for regulating emissions limits. This approach has been adopted in Europe and is similar to the EPA’s acid rain program, which limits sulfur dioxide from coal-fired powerplants and other sources. Auto tailpipe emissions would be regulated under a previously announced Obama Administration program to link CO2 emissions to the CAFE standards (since CO2 is released in proportion to the amount of carbon-based fuel that is burned.) This approach is supported by SEMA and the automakers, since it has the advantage of creating a single national CO2 standard. A Congressional study projects that the House bill will raise average household energy prices from $80 to $111. Opponents believe that the estimates are too low and that American jobs will migrate to countries that do not have equivalent climate regulations. The U.S. Senate is expected to consider its version of the legislation this fall. President Obama has made passage of the bill a top domestic priority.

Tire Fuel Efficiency: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a proposal to establish a tire fuel-efficiency rating system. The plans stem from a 2007 federal energy law mandating a program to provide consumers with information about the fuel efficiency of replacement tires. The law contains a SEMA provision exempting manufacturers of tires that have the same SKU, plant and year and have been produced or imported in annual units of less than 15,000. Under the federal program, tire manufacturers would be required to label their replacement tires for fuel efficiency, safety and durability based on performance tests established by NHTSA. The label would display a scale ranging from 0 to 100, with 100 being the best rating. NHTSA must issue a final rule by the end of 2009.

Light Truck Bumper Standard: NHTSA is seeking public comment on whether to apply the bumper standard to light trucks, vans and SUVs, since they now represent a large percentage of the nation’s car fleet. The bumper standard has only applied to passenger cars since it was implemented in 1972. The standard’s performance requirements are intended to prevent damage to the car body and safety-related equipment at 2½ mph across the full width of the front and rear bumper and 1½ mph on the corners.

Daytime Running Lamps: NHTSA denied a longstanding petition by General Motors that the agency mandate installation of daytime running lamps (DRLs) on all new light-duty vehicles. NHTSA’s decision was based on study results that it found did not provide substantial evidence of an overall safety benefit, although the lighting equipment may be beneficial under certain scenarios. NHTSA will continue to maintain a neutral position on the technology and allow manufacturers to make individual decisions on whether to voluntarily install DRLs. The DRLs must meet performance criteria issued by NHTSA, which are meant to address potential glare.

Aerosol Paints: The EPA has added 128 substances to the list of chemicals sometimes found in aerosol paints that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The primary substances include formaldehyde, ethanol, benzene, propane and vinyl chloride. VOCs react with nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight to form ground-level ozone. Spray paint manufacturers must now determine whether their products contain the substances and still comply with VOC emissions limits that took effect in 2009 for spray paints, primers and clear coatings. The EPA rule is similar to a California standard and applies to manufacturers and distributors of aerosol products that are used for both industrial applications and by do-it-yourselfers. The EPA believes that most producers already comply with the rule. Manufacturers that make limited quantities of aerosol spray paints containing VOCs (less than 7,500 kilograms/8.3 tons) on an annual basis are exempt from the regulation.

SEMA News - September 2009

By Steve McDonald

LEGISLATIVE AND TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

California

Legislative Automotive Study Group: California Assemblymember Ted Gaines has formed an informal California Legislative Automotive Study Group, aimed at protecting and raising awareness of the “state’s automotive industry and the jobs it creates.” Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes will co-chair the group. The group plans to look into ways to “explore new environmentally friendly technologies and innovations” as well as promoting the off-road and auto enthusiast markets, which Gaines says accounts for 200,000 jobs in California. SEMA is contacting group members to offer its assistance and support.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it will grant a waiver to California to allow the state to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks. Until at least 2016, however, California will pursue the national approach adopted by the Obama Administration. The decision ends a seven-year battle by California to establish standards to limit emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. In 2007, the Bush Administration blocked implementation of the California CO2 rule, which had been adopted by 13 other states. Since the federal standards will not begin until 2012, the waiver technically allows California and other states to enforce their own standards. More importantly, the waiver will permit California to pursue stricter standards after 2016.

Tire Fuel Efficiency: California has issued a regulatory proposal to establish a tire fuel-efficiency rating system. The regulation is based on a 2003 California law mandating a program to provide consumers with information about the fuel efficiency of replacement tires. The law contains a SEMA provision exempting manufacturers of tires that have the same SKU, plant and year and have been produced or imported in annual units of less than 15,000. California regulators are proposing a program that would assign a “fuel-efficient tire” ranking to the top 15% of tires with the lowest rolling resistance within their size and load class. All other tested tires would be ranked as “tires that are not fuel efficient.” If enacted, the testing program would take effect in mid 2011. Manufacturers would also be required to report other tire information, such as load index, federal Uniform Tire Quality Grading System rating and speed rating.

Connecticut

Vehicle Noise: SEMA helped defeat legislation that would require motor vehicles and devices to be operated, constructed and adjusted to prevent unnecessary or unusual noise. The bill did not define what constituted unnecessary or unusual noise. SEMA also persuaded lawmakers not to pass legislation that sought to provide an incentive to localities to increase the number of citations issued for violation of vehicle noise regulations.

North Carolina

Scrappage: SEMA persuaded North Carolina legislators not to consider legislation that would have implemented a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old. Participants would have received around $1,000 to $1,500 to scrap their cars and purchase current-year vehicles under 10,000 pounds or from the previous three model years. All trade-in vehicles could have been destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest. Had this effort been successful, hobbyists could have been denied the availability of vintage cars and parts for restoration projects.

Oregon

Aftermarket Parts: The Oregon House and Senate approved an alternative to legislation that originally sought to prohibit the sale and distribution of aftermarket motor vehicle parts if alternatives are available that “decrease greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.” Under the alternative, negotiated between SEMA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the bill would only give the department authority to adopt the present California certification process for aftermarket emissions-related parts, allowing parts manufacturers to meet one uniform standard rather than a patchwork of multiple state standards. The amended legislation will also incorporate a California law that requires state regulators to develop a tire fuel-efficiency program for passenger car and light-truck replacement tires. As in California, Oregon includes a SEMA-drafted provision to exempt limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually), deep-tread snow tires, limited-use spares, motorcycle tires and tires manufactured for use on off-road vehicles. The bill will now be transmitted to the governor for his signature and enactment into law.

Tennessee

Antique Vehicles: Legislation to amend the state’s current law defining antique motor vehicles to also permit use of these vehicles for “selling, testing the operation of or obtaining repairs” was signed into law by Governor Phil Bredesen. The bill had originally contained a SEMA-supported provision to allow use for everyday general transportation. In addition to the new allowances, the Tennessee law continues to permit use of antique vehicles for club activities, exhibits, tours and for general transportation on Saturday and Sunday.

Federal Update

Health Care Reform: Congress is working this summer to complete House and Senate bills to overhaul how Americans gain access to affordable health care insurance. The ultimate goal for congressional Democrats is to finalize a single bill this fall to be sent to President Obama. Given the complexity of the issue and its financial ramifications, a number of reform measures have been proposed and debated. Topics that are being simultaneously addressed include providing expanded coverage, cost containment, improved quality, simplified administration and equitable financing. SEMA continues to support cost-containment measures, such as allowing small businesses to gain access to national or large state coverage pools. SEMA’s advocacy efforts are coordinated with the Small Business Coalition for Affordable Healthcare and the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. House of Representatives passed landmark legislation to establish national limits on greenhouse gases and an emissions credit trading system. The bill’s intent is to gradually switch the nation from fossil fuels to sources of “clean” power, such as wind and solar energy. The legislation would require a 17% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2020 and 80% by 2050, based on 2005 levels. The primary targets are large stationary source emitters such as powerplants, factories and refineries. The bill would establish a market for issuing CO2 permits that could then be bought and sold as a mechanism for regulating emissions limits. This approach has been adopted in Europe and is similar to the EPA’s acid rain program, which limits sulfur dioxide from coal-fired powerplants and other sources. Auto tailpipe emissions would be regulated under a previously announced Obama Administration program to link CO2 emissions to the CAFE standards (since CO2 is released in proportion to the amount of carbon-based fuel that is burned.) This approach is supported by SEMA and the automakers, since it has the advantage of creating a single national CO2 standard. A Congressional study projects that the House bill will raise average household energy prices from $80 to $111. Opponents believe that the estimates are too low and that American jobs will migrate to countries that do not have equivalent climate regulations. The U.S. Senate is expected to consider its version of the legislation this fall. President Obama has made passage of the bill a top domestic priority.

Tire Fuel Efficiency: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a proposal to establish a tire fuel-efficiency rating system. The plans stem from a 2007 federal energy law mandating a program to provide consumers with information about the fuel efficiency of replacement tires. The law contains a SEMA provision exempting manufacturers of tires that have the same SKU, plant and year and have been produced or imported in annual units of less than 15,000. Under the federal program, tire manufacturers would be required to label their replacement tires for fuel efficiency, safety and durability based on performance tests established by NHTSA. The label would display a scale ranging from 0 to 100, with 100 being the best rating. NHTSA must issue a final rule by the end of 2009.

Light Truck Bumper Standard: NHTSA is seeking public comment on whether to apply the bumper standard to light trucks, vans and SUVs, since they now represent a large percentage of the nation’s car fleet. The bumper standard has only applied to passenger cars since it was implemented in 1972. The standard’s performance requirements are intended to prevent damage to the car body and safety-related equipment at 2½ mph across the full width of the front and rear bumper and 1½ mph on the corners.

Daytime Running Lamps: NHTSA denied a longstanding petition by General Motors that the agency mandate installation of daytime running lamps (DRLs) on all new light-duty vehicles. NHTSA’s decision was based on study results that it found did not provide substantial evidence of an overall safety benefit, although the lighting equipment may be beneficial under certain scenarios. NHTSA will continue to maintain a neutral position on the technology and allow manufacturers to make individual decisions on whether to voluntarily install DRLs. The DRLs must meet performance criteria issued by NHTSA, which are meant to address potential glare.

Aerosol Paints: The EPA has added 128 substances to the list of chemicals sometimes found in aerosol paints that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The primary substances include formaldehyde, ethanol, benzene, propane and vinyl chloride. VOCs react with nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight to form ground-level ozone. Spray paint manufacturers must now determine whether their products contain the substances and still comply with VOC emissions limits that took effect in 2009 for spray paints, primers and clear coatings. The EPA rule is similar to a California standard and applies to manufacturers and distributors of aerosol products that are used for both industrial applications and by do-it-yourselfers. The EPA believes that most producers already comply with the rule. Manufacturers that make limited quantities of aerosol spray paints containing VOCs (less than 7,500 kilograms/8.3 tons) on an annual basis are exempt from the regulation.