By Della Domingo

	The SEMA Data Co-op's new product data management tools will reduce the time it takes to load and validate large files from days to hours.

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has enhanced its product data management tools to make it easier and faster for auto accessory suppliers to process their files. The new tools, which were introduced last month, will reduce the time it takes to load and validate large files from days to hours.
 
"We are all very excited about the launch of this important feature," said Bob Castle, SDC vice president of eBusiness and I.T. "It provides much-needed capability to brands with very high SKU counts, sometimes exceeding 1 million records. Now suppliers can easily stage their large files for loading without tedious prep work, and can enjoy the very efficient automation we have built into our PIMS system."  
 
The SDC’s full-featured solution includes comprehensive data validation tools, unlimited secure storage and an easy-to-use web interface for supplier members to manage their product data. Additionally, data receivers can get exports formatted specifically to their requirements, and can manage delivery of data through a versatile scheduling tool.
 
Since launching in 2013, the SDC has grown to include more than 285 industry brands and 375 data receivers.
 
“The SDC is designed to be very simple to use,” said Castle. “Because members do not need to have any prior data management experience and there are no setup charges, joining the co-op is easy and affordable. In fact, no fees are collected until the on-boarding process is completed and data is being exported to receivers.”
 
The SEMA Data Co-op is an industry-owned and -operated project designed to bring full product data management capabilities to participating suppliers at the lowest possible cost. Features include a secure, industry-standards-based centralized data repository, extensive on-boarding tools, expert live training and technical assistance, and unlimited standard or fully customized data exports.

To learn more about the program, visit www.SemaDataCoop.org or contact Jim Graven at JimG@SemaDataCoop.org or call 888-958-6698, ext. 4.

By Della Domingo

	The SEMA Data Co-op's new product data management tools will reduce the time it takes to load and validate large files from days to hours.

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has enhanced its product data management tools to make it easier and faster for auto accessory suppliers to process their files. The new tools, which were introduced last month, will reduce the time it takes to load and validate large files from days to hours.
 
"We are all very excited about the launch of this important feature," said Bob Castle, SDC vice president of eBusiness and I.T. "It provides much-needed capability to brands with very high SKU counts, sometimes exceeding 1 million records. Now suppliers can easily stage their large files for loading without tedious prep work, and can enjoy the very efficient automation we have built into our PIMS system."  
 
The SDC’s full-featured solution includes comprehensive data validation tools, unlimited secure storage and an easy-to-use web interface for supplier members to manage their product data. Additionally, data receivers can get exports formatted specifically to their requirements, and can manage delivery of data through a versatile scheduling tool.
 
Since launching in 2013, the SDC has grown to include more than 285 industry brands and 375 data receivers.
 
“The SDC is designed to be very simple to use,” said Castle. “Because members do not need to have any prior data management experience and there are no setup charges, joining the co-op is easy and affordable. In fact, no fees are collected until the on-boarding process is completed and data is being exported to receivers.”
 
The SEMA Data Co-op is an industry-owned and -operated project designed to bring full product data management capabilities to participating suppliers at the lowest possible cost. Features include a secure, industry-standards-based centralized data repository, extensive on-boarding tools, expert live training and technical assistance, and unlimited standard or fully customized data exports.

To learn more about the program, visit www.SemaDataCoop.org or contact Jim Graven at JimG@SemaDataCoop.org or call 888-958-6698, ext. 4.

Truck Accessories Group Names Jim Blayne Director of Fleet Sales

	Jim Blayne was named director of fleet sales for the Truck Accessories Group.

Truck Accessories Group (TAG) has added Jim Blayne to its staff as director of fleet sales for the company’s Commercial Division. Blayne will deliver the vision and the experience to help TAG’s commercial and fleet customers meet their exacting budget and transportation needs. Blayne joins TAG with more than 22 years of industry experience, including senior management positions at A.R.E. Accessories in Ohio. He will establish the company’s Commercial Division’s overall strategy and oversee all aspects of its sales efforts.

“Jim’s addition to the Commercial Division team, along with his unique experience, impeccable integrity and drive, will help the company establish important relationships with new and existing commercial customers throughout North America,” said Kevin Page, vice president of sales and marketing for LEER. “We now have the Commercial team in place to deliver exceptional value and service to our fleet customers.”

The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS 126) test was performed to show that the installation of a Pro Comp 6-in. suspension system, Pro Comp wheels and 35-in. Pro Comp tires on a ’14 Ram 1500 would not compromise the performance and effectiveness of the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control system.

Pro Comp Passes Electronic Stability Control Test With ’14 Ram 1500 6-in. Suspension System

Pro Comp has announced that it has tested and successfully passed the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS 126) test. This highly specialized test was performed to show that the installation of a Pro Comp 6-in. suspension system, Pro Comp wheels and 35-in. Pro Comp tires on a ’14 Ram 1500 would not compromise the performance and effectiveness of the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.

The Ram was fitted with an array of sensors and test equipment to monitor all aspects of the vehicle's movement and dynamics, including a robotically operated steering wheel to assure precise and accurate tests. On the closed test course, the Pro Comp-equipped vehicle was accelerated to 50 mph, at which point the test operator initiated the test and let the computer take over. The robotically controlled wheel spins abruptly; both left and right, up to 300 degrees in less than half a second and then returns back to dead center, causing the truck to change direction and begin to slide. This event caused the Ram’s ESC system to activate and regain control. When the data was analyzed, it clearly showed that the Pro Comp products did not interfere with the performance of the ESC systems.

Motovicity Adds PLX Products to Lineup

Motovicity Distribution announced the addition of PLX Devices to its line of performance aftermarket products. PLX is an innovative line of performance electronics products and custom apps geared toward performance enthusiasts and retailers. The PLX products that Motovicity highlighted as key include: the DM-6 Wideband AFR (UEGO) Combo, which includes the DM-6 touch screen controlled MultiGauge; a Bosch LSU4.2 wideband O2 sensor; and the PLX SM-AFR wideband controller module.

“We’re pleased to add PLX to our lineup of performance brands,” said Motovicity Sales Manager Ryan Balicki. “This creates new opportunities for our customers to meet the growing market demand for reliable tuning accessories.”

McKeel Hagerty Honored by LeMay

	McKeel Hagerty, president and CEO of Hagerty, received the “Nicola Bulgari Award” from LeMay – America’s Car Museum during its second Wheels & Heels Annual Gala.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum (ACM) presented its “Nicola Bulgari Award” to McKeel Hagerty, president and CEO of Hagerty, which offers insurance and valuation tools for classic vehicles. The ceremony was conducted Saturday evening at the Wheels & Heels Annual Gala, celebrating the second-year anniversary of the Tacoma, Washington-based museum. Named after jewelry magnate and classic car collector Nicola Bulgari, the award is presented annually to individuals who make outstanding contributions to preserve America’s automotive heritage through education, car restoration and collecting classic cars.

Hagerty took over the family business in 1995 and has grown the company from 30 employees to more than 500. He created the Collectors Foundation, which has awarded $2.75 million in scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive preservation and restoration. It was renamed the Hagerty Education Program after partnering with America’s Car Museum in January 2014, and Hagerty has committed another $1.75 million to support collector vehicle education.

CRP Recognized for Electronic Data Excellence

CRP Automotive was presented with the Best-in-Class NCMA President’s Award for Electronic Data Excellence for 2013–2014, at the most recent National Catalog Managers Association Knowledge Exchange in Chandler, Arizona. CRP Automotive was nominated for this prestigious award by Epicor, a leading retail software manufacturer.

The award announcement was made by Daniel Schildge, president of CRP Industries, who noted, “It’s an honor to be recognized by both Epicor and the NCMA for our cataloging efforts. This award validates the process improvements that we have enacted within our cataloging activities and is a tribute to the dedication and hard work of our entire catalog team.”

Advanstar Promotes Pete Meier to Director of Training

Pete Meier was promoted to director of training for the Advanstar Automotive Group.

The Advanstar Automotive Group has promoted Pete Meier to director of training. Meier joined Advanstar in September 2010 as technical editor after spending more than 35 years as an automotive technician. In his new role, Meier will oversee the training program for Automechanika Chicago in 2015 and the development of other training initiatives within Advanstar Automotive Group, including webinars and video training projects. He will continue in his role as Advanstar Automotive Group technical editor.

During his time at Advanstar Automotive Group, Meier helped launch the “The Trainer” video series and the Motor Age YouTube channel so more technicians would have access to technical training. In addition to creating monthly videos to address a variety of technical topics, Meier helped establish a partnership with Technicians Service Training (TST) to host live, interactive webinars for Motor Age readers at no charge.

CURT Manufacturing Acquires Aries Automotive

	CURT Manufacturing has acquired Aries Automotive, a manufacturer of tubular-style truck accessories and 3D floor- and cargo-liner interior accessories.

CURT Manufacturing, a leading manufacturer and marketer of top-quality towing products, has announced the acquisition of Aries Automotive, manufacturer of tubular-style truck accessories and 3D floor- and cargo-liner interior accessories. All contact information for Aries, including phone numbers and email addresses, will remain the same.

Greg Hooks, CEO of CURT Manufacturing stated, “We are very excited for the opportunity to add high-quality truck and interior accessories to our portfolio of products.” Jeff Perez, President of Aries added, “We are all pleased with the acquisition of Aries Automotive and we are very much looking forward to working with the CURT team.” Jeff Perez and his team will continue to be the contacts for Aries Automotive.

Dust and Son Adds RKI Product Line

Jeff Dust and Kevin Dust, of Dust and Son, celebrate their new relationship with Al Creekmore and other employees of RKI Inc.

Dust and Son, an automotive parts and power equipment retailer and wholesaler, announced that the company is now a distributor for the RKI Inc. product line. RKI is a manufacturer of specialty truck boxes, service bodies, wenches, cranes, and aerodynamic window grilles. Dust and Son is celebrating its 85th year in business with Illinois retail locations in Effingham, Charleston, Urbana, Marion, Decatur, Grayville, Salem, and Sullivan.  More information about Dust and Son and the RKI line can be found at www.dustandson.com.

Silver Sport Transmissions Acquires Keisler Engineering

Silver Sport Transmissions (SST) in Rockford, Tennessee, has acquired the assets and intellectual property of Keisler Engineering, which filed for bankruptcy in early 2014. Silver Sport will continue to market the Tremec TKO 500/600 and T56 Magnum transmission using the PerfectFit technology providing restoration enthusiasts a high-quality product with the best fit and performance possible. SST takes customer service to a new level with no down payment requirement and quick shipping from its large inventory.

Landon List Joins ReadyLIFT Suspension Inc. as New Western Regional Sales Manager

ReadyLIFT Suspension Inc. has announced that Landon List has joined the company to further strengthen and grow the already expanding sales efforts of ReadyLIFT's street and off-road product lines. List had previously spent 2.5 years with Transamerican Wholesale/4 Wheel Parts and before that, 2.5 years with VIAIR. While at Transamerican/4 Wheel Parts, he was responsible for merchandising suspension lines, and was a key manager in building relationships with vendors. As an off-road enthusiast, List has been involved with UTV racing and Jeepspeed racing, and enjoys trail riding in his Jeep. He will help to build the connection between ReadyLIFT and off-road customers who are looking for better-designed and off-road-ready suspension products.  

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org. 

By SEMA Editors

	About 1,200 of the biggest brand names in hardcore racing components from across the United States and in 72 countries will display the latest advances in racing products and race engineering at the 2014 PRI Show, which will be held December 11–13, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

The Performance Racing Industry (PRI) has announced that the 2014 PRI Show floorplan is now available online, enabling attendees to identify the exhibiting company in every booth.

About 1,200 of the biggest brand names in hardcore racing components from across the United States and in 72 countries will display the latest advances in racing products and race engineering at the 2014 PRI Show, which will be held December 11–13, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

More than 48,000 pre-qualified buyers for tens of thousands of racing retail stores, warehouse distribution centers, professional race engine builders and race car production companies are expected to attend. In the United States alone, there are more than 400,000 racers, the vast majority of whom are at the grassroots level, purchasing products from their local race store or race engine builder.

Thousands of professional race teams, from NASCAR Cup teams to NHRA Top Fuel, from Japan to the United Kingdom, send buyers to ensure they are current with today’s race technology.

Suppliers of components, equipment or engineering services who are active in the $13.5 billion racing industry can capture their share of this market by exhibiting. Register now!

Important Links:

• Discounted hotel reservations
• PRI Show Planner

By SEMA Editors

	About 1,200 of the biggest brand names in hardcore racing components from across the United States and in 72 countries will display the latest advances in racing products and race engineering at the 2014 PRI Show, which will be held December 11–13, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

The Performance Racing Industry (PRI) has announced that the 2014 PRI Show floorplan is now available online, enabling attendees to identify the exhibiting company in every booth.

About 1,200 of the biggest brand names in hardcore racing components from across the United States and in 72 countries will display the latest advances in racing products and race engineering at the 2014 PRI Show, which will be held December 11–13, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

More than 48,000 pre-qualified buyers for tens of thousands of racing retail stores, warehouse distribution centers, professional race engine builders and race car production companies are expected to attend. In the United States alone, there are more than 400,000 racers, the vast majority of whom are at the grassroots level, purchasing products from their local race store or race engine builder.

Thousands of professional race teams, from NASCAR Cup teams to NHRA Top Fuel, from Japan to the United Kingdom, send buyers to ensure they are current with today’s race technology.

Suppliers of components, equipment or engineering services who are active in the $13.5 billion racing industry can capture their share of this market by exhibiting. Register now!

Important Links:

• Discounted hotel reservations
• PRI Show Planner

By SEMA Editors

	Mark A. Smith

Mark A. Smith, 87, off-road icon and founder of Georgetown, California-based Jeep Jamboree USA, passed away June 8. Smith was an early pioneer of the sport of "Jeeping" in 1953, and in an effort to boost the local economy, he helped organize the first-ever Jeep trip on the Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In 1954, Willys Motor—the manufacturer of Jeep vehicles—began sponsoring the off-road adventure.

Smith was a Jeep brand consultant and conducted intensive training for U.S. Army Special Forces and other agencies. In 1982, he founded Jeep Jamboree USA, which offers more than 30 annual off-road excursions across the country exclusively for Jeep owners.

His spirit of adventure led him to create and conquer the longest overland 4WD journey in history—the 1978–79 Expedición de Las Américas—a 20,000-mile, 120-day journey from the bottom of South America to the top of North America. His team was the first non-military group to achieve a vehicular crossing of the notoriously rugged Darién Gap between Panama and Colombia. Smith also headed the 1987 Camel Trophy in Madagascar.

In 1980, Smith was inducted into the Off Road Motorsports Hall of Fame, and in 1986, the United Four Wheel Drive Association named him “Four Wheeler of the Decade.” In 1989, Smith was inducted as a member of the Explorer’s Club of New York.

Smith was an inspiration to many and believed, "If you have a dream, make sure you pursue it." He is survived by his wife Irene; his children Robert, Patti, Greg and Jill; three grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

	Exhibitors have the opportunity to expand their reach at the 2014 SEMA Show by offering products to project builders through a weekly list that appears in SEMA eNews.

Exhibitors have the opportunity to expand their reach at the 2014 SEMA Show by offering products to project builders through a weekly list that appears in SEMA eNews. The Products Available to Project-Vehicle Builders list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the crafters seeking to customize and complete their builds with the industry’s latest wares.

The Show’s spectacular array of trendsetting vehicles are positioned throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center. With this valuable opportunity to showcase products across the Show’s landscape, manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at greatly reduced rates. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2014 SEMA Show.

Below are this week’s submissions. To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form located in the SEMA Show Exhibitor Manual.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2014 SEMA Show only. For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

Standard Motor Products Inc.: Performance ignition wires and battery cables. Contact: Mike Maxwell, mike.maxwell@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500. Website: www.bluestreakwire.com.

Exterior Components/Accessories

Cequent Performance Products: Towing hitches, receiver tubes, hitch balls; fifth wheel hitches; weight distribution systems; pin boxes; goosenecks; jacks; couplers; winches. Bike racks, roof racks, cargo baskets and containers. Contact: Carol Doney, cdoney@cequentgroup.com; 734-656-3010. Website: www.cequentgroup.com/Brand/All.

Suspension/Brake Components

Cequent Performance Products: Brake controls for towing, vehicle illumination, wiring. Contact: Carol Doney, cdoney@cequentgroup.com; 734-656-3010. Website: www.cequentgroup.com/Brand/All.

MGP Caliper Covers: MGP Caliper Covers - Custom logo and color options are available for select vehicles. Officially Licensed by Ford, GM, Mopar, Shelby American and Weld Racing. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Wheels and Tires

Achilles Tire: Tires. Contact: Harue Gard, harue.gard@itatire.com; 818-715-7080. Website: www.achillestireusa.com.

	Exhibitors have the opportunity to expand their reach at the 2014 SEMA Show by offering products to project builders through a weekly list that appears in SEMA eNews.

Exhibitors have the opportunity to expand their reach at the 2014 SEMA Show by offering products to project builders through a weekly list that appears in SEMA eNews. The Products Available to Project-Vehicle Builders list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the crafters seeking to customize and complete their builds with the industry’s latest wares.

The Show’s spectacular array of trendsetting vehicles are positioned throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center. With this valuable opportunity to showcase products across the Show’s landscape, manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at greatly reduced rates. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2014 SEMA Show.

Below are this week’s submissions. To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form located in the SEMA Show Exhibitor Manual.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2014 SEMA Show only. For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

Standard Motor Products Inc.: Performance ignition wires and battery cables. Contact: Mike Maxwell, mike.maxwell@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500. Website: www.bluestreakwire.com.

Exterior Components/Accessories

Cequent Performance Products: Towing hitches, receiver tubes, hitch balls; fifth wheel hitches; weight distribution systems; pin boxes; goosenecks; jacks; couplers; winches. Bike racks, roof racks, cargo baskets and containers. Contact: Carol Doney, cdoney@cequentgroup.com; 734-656-3010. Website: www.cequentgroup.com/Brand/All.

Suspension/Brake Components

Cequent Performance Products: Brake controls for towing, vehicle illumination, wiring. Contact: Carol Doney, cdoney@cequentgroup.com; 734-656-3010. Website: www.cequentgroup.com/Brand/All.

MGP Caliper Covers: MGP Caliper Covers - Custom logo and color options are available for select vehicles. Officially Licensed by Ford, GM, Mopar, Shelby American and Weld Racing. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Wheels and Tires

Achilles Tire: Tires. Contact: Harue Gard, harue.gard@itatire.com; 818-715-7080. Website: www.achillestireusa.com.

By Rebecca Butler

	Creating a consistent voice for your organization is key to brand awareness for potential buyers, according to Johnny Hunkins, an editor at TEN: The Enthusiast Network.

When it comes to making your mark in the media, consistency is the name of the game. Here are three tips from Johnny Hunkins, an editor at TEN: The Enthusiast Network, to help exhibitor’s accomplish this task.

First, you must designate one person to be in charge of all media relations for your organization. Creating a consistent voice is key to brand awareness for potential buyers.

Secondly, have a consistent target market. Read the magazines, websites and learn your media brands. If you want to maximize your media buzz, you need to identify with the magazines that best target your customers. Advertise in the outlets you know will reach your target market.

Lastly, be consistent in your relationships, and more importantly, build relationships. Set aside time to make a genuine attempt to cultivate long-term relationships with editors. This is a $31 billion per year business, and making allies will benefit you in the long run.

For more information and the complete list of tips by Johnny Hunkins, please contact Monika Earle at monikae@sema.org; 909-978-6722.

KGP Photography's man in the United Kingdom caught a less-camouflaged prototype for the all-new Land Rover Discovery Sport, providing their best look yet at the model that will replace Land Rover's Freelander (in Europe) and the LR2 (in the United States). The new Discovery Sport mixes Range Rover's new design language with design cues found on the company's Land Rover Vision concept, which bowed at this past spring's New York Auto Show.

The latest prototype gives an uncovered look at the new Discovery's grille design, and a less-clad view of the C- and D-pillar interplay. The new Disco will be offered as a five-seat model, along with a newly available seven-seat configuration, which will help broaden the appeal and marketability of the LR2-replacement. The new Discovery is expected to adopt an all-aluminum construction that will help shed weight and improve performance and handling amid a crowded, hyper-competitive market segment.

Photo credit: KGP Photography