By John Stewart

The limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart will be shown at next week’s Chicago Auto Show.

Chrysler has introduced a limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart, built and customized with Mopar performance parts and accessories. The car will be shown at next week’s Chicago Auto Show. Production for a limited run of 500 units will begin this spring at the company’s assembly plant in Belvidere, Illinois.

Inspired by the tuner scene, the Mopar ’13 Dart is designed for driving enthusiasts. Powered by a 1.4-liter MultiAir intercooled turbo engine with a manual transmission, the Mopar ’13 sports a gloss-black finish with a pair of car-length Mopar Blue stripes, which mirror each of the three previous Mopar-themed models.

For enhanced handling, upgrades include a performance steering-gear calibration, a 7-mm lowered suspension and low-profile 40 aspect performance tires (225/40R18). From the racing scene, Mopar added a premium brake kit with slotted rotors. Engine breathing is enhanced with a performance-tuned exhaust. To further optimize aerodynamics and increase downforce, the custom Dart features Mopar’s ground-effects kit, which includes a front-chin spoiler, one-piece deck-lid spoiler and an aggressively styled rear diffuser.

Along with a Mopar serialized badge on the dash, the special-edition Mopar ’13 includes industry-first wireless charging for smartphones, a blue-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with an identically garnished shifter knob, a bright sport-pedal kit, premium Mopar carpet floor mats, door-sill guards and an 8.4-in. navigation screen.

The limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart will be delivered to each customer with a personalized owner kit. Assembled in a custom-made black case, contents include a personalized plate with vehicle specifications, the date of manufacture and the unique identification number (of 500) of the vehicle. Along with a Mopar ’13 brochure and other memorabilia, the kit will include a limited-edition sketch of the vehicle signed by Mark Trostle, Chrysler Group chief designer for the Mopar brand.

Information on the Mopar ’13 will be available on the Dodge website after February 1.

	The WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose ’53 Ford F-100 sold for $170,000 at Barrett-Jackson.

By SEMA Staff

WD-40 Co. and Chip Foose partnered again to build and auction a custom charity vehicle, and their efforts paid off—to the tune of $170,000—to help protect and care for children in need.

The WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose ’53 Ford F-100 pickup was auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, Friday, January 18, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Chip Foose, the legendary hot-rod designer and TV star who designed and built the custom pickup, was on hand to see the vehicle cross the auction block and receive the winning bid from Robert Wilson of Loveland, Colorado. With an updated drivetrain, suspension, wheels, tires and paint, the cream truck looks similar to the one used to deliver the first case of WD-40 Multi-Use Product back in the ’50s, when that company was called Rocket Chemical Co., but has a classic Foose style.

“It was a pleasure building a truck that commemorates one of the most iconic American products—one I’ve personally used in my shop more than any other tool,” said Foose. “I’m glad the truck went to an owner who really wanted it and am thrilled it’s going to help support those kids who really need it.”

This is the fourth consecutive year WD-40 Co. has partnered with SEMA Cares—SEMA's charity arm—to build a custom vehicle for a good cause. The company’s custom Camaro, Mustang and Challenger raised money for the same two SEMA Cares charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction—and all four vehicles, including the Ford F-100, have raised a combined total of more than $570,000 for those charities. Childhelp provides services to abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction provides life-changing camping experiences to special-needs and chronically ill children.

“What a way to kick off our 60th anniversary as a company,” said Tim Lesmeister, vice president of marketing for WD-40 Co. “We’re so grateful Chip’s hard work, along with that of our build partners, was recognized and that we were able to help make a difference through the great work of Childhelp and Victory Junction.”

Watch the footage of the WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose ’53 Ford F-100 pickup being sold.

	The WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose ’53 Ford F-100 sold for $170,000 at Barrett-Jackson.

By SEMA Staff

WD-40 Co. and Chip Foose partnered again to build and auction a custom charity vehicle, and their efforts paid off—to the tune of $170,000—to help protect and care for children in need.

The WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose ’53 Ford F-100 pickup was auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, Friday, January 18, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Chip Foose, the legendary hot-rod designer and TV star who designed and built the custom pickup, was on hand to see the vehicle cross the auction block and receive the winning bid from Robert Wilson of Loveland, Colorado. With an updated drivetrain, suspension, wheels, tires and paint, the cream truck looks similar to the one used to deliver the first case of WD-40 Multi-Use Product back in the ’50s, when that company was called Rocket Chemical Co., but has a classic Foose style.

“It was a pleasure building a truck that commemorates one of the most iconic American products—one I’ve personally used in my shop more than any other tool,” said Foose. “I’m glad the truck went to an owner who really wanted it and am thrilled it’s going to help support those kids who really need it.”

This is the fourth consecutive year WD-40 Co. has partnered with SEMA Cares—SEMA's charity arm—to build a custom vehicle for a good cause. The company’s custom Camaro, Mustang and Challenger raised money for the same two SEMA Cares charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction—and all four vehicles, including the Ford F-100, have raised a combined total of more than $570,000 for those charities. Childhelp provides services to abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction provides life-changing camping experiences to special-needs and chronically ill children.

“What a way to kick off our 60th anniversary as a company,” said Tim Lesmeister, vice president of marketing for WD-40 Co. “We’re so grateful Chip’s hard work, along with that of our build partners, was recognized and that we were able to help make a difference through the great work of Childhelp and Victory Junction.”

Watch the footage of the WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose ’53 Ford F-100 pickup being sold.

Kurt Miller (right) accepted the 2012 Robert E. Petersen Award on behalf of Jim Ryan during last Tuesday evening's Media Reception at the Media Trade Conference.

A change in venue and implementation of new procedures and staffing contributed to another successful MPMC Media Trade Conference. Hotel and SEMA staff were placed at all the stairs and elevator landings to help media navigate their way around the new facility. Snacks, fruits and drinks were available at all four elevator lobbies during meeting hours so that media attendees and exhibitors alike could stay hydrated and full of energy. These procedural and venue changes, coupled with a record showing by media attendees, all combined to make this 16th and latest edition of the MPMC Media Trade Conference a “bar raiser.” A photo gallery will be posted on the MPMC website very soon.

Jim Ryan was voted the recipient of the 2012 Robert E. Petersen Award by the MPMC membership. The award is presented each year during the Tuesday evening Media Reception at the Media Trade Conference. Unfortunately, Ryan was under the weather and unable to attend the festivities. But his long-time friend and associate, Kurt Miller accepted the award on Ryan’s behalf.

Exhibitor registration for the 2014 event will open in mid-July, so MPMC members should mark their calendars.

For more information visit www.sema.org/mpmc.

Kurt Miller (right) accepted the 2012 Robert E. Petersen Award on behalf of Jim Ryan during last Tuesday evening's Media Reception at the Media Trade Conference.

A change in venue and implementation of new procedures and staffing contributed to another successful MPMC Media Trade Conference. Hotel and SEMA staff were placed at all the stairs and elevator landings to help media navigate their way around the new facility. Snacks, fruits and drinks were available at all four elevator lobbies during meeting hours so that media attendees and exhibitors alike could stay hydrated and full of energy. These procedural and venue changes, coupled with a record showing by media attendees, all combined to make this 16th and latest edition of the MPMC Media Trade Conference a “bar raiser.” A photo gallery will be posted on the MPMC website very soon.

Jim Ryan was voted the recipient of the 2012 Robert E. Petersen Award by the MPMC membership. The award is presented each year during the Tuesday evening Media Reception at the Media Trade Conference. Unfortunately, Ryan was under the weather and unable to attend the festivities. But his long-time friend and associate, Kurt Miller accepted the award on Ryan’s behalf.

Exhibitor registration for the 2014 event will open in mid-July, so MPMC members should mark their calendars.

For more information visit www.sema.org/mpmc.

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting addresses guests at PRO’s 2012 Novemberfest Industry Reception.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), a SEMA council, is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket and to developing effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues. PRO represents the collective interests of all SEMA-member companies serving the restyling and accessory market, including manufacturers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers reps or restylers and installers.

Leadership: Eldon Bracken, chairman; Jeff Fink, chair-elect
SEMA Council Director: Zane Clark
Cost: Manufacturer/Importer: $150; Warehouse/Multiline Distributor/Manufacturers’ Rep: $75; Installer/Restyler/Accessory Retailer/Service: $50
Industry Served: Restyling, specialty and automotive appearance companies
Website: www.sema.org/pro

Top Three Reasons to Join PRO

• Business Tools & Resources: The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) provides its members with effective programs and materials to help them grow and prosper. From the organization’s Sales Training Manual and Business Development Guidebook to the “Fast Track to Accessorization” brochure and hands-on training conferences, PRO offers its members invaluable marketing and training advantages.

• Networking: PRO members connect with peers, colleagues and suppliers at SEMA-sponsored trade shows, PRO council meetings, functions and special events. PRO members receive priority registration and discounted or free rates.

• Industry Awareness and Recognition: Members receive quarterly communications highlighting PRO activities and pertinent industry news. During the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, PRO members are given special invitations to attend the annual NovemberFest awards reception that pays tribute to industry leaders.

Message From the PRO Chair

Membership in a council is one of the greatest benefits of being a SEMA member. You are able to connect with people and companies that work with and represent your segment of the industry. Once you get involved, you see just how much work is done behind the scenes to preserve and grow the automotive aftermarket for the future. From the educational opportunities and increasing your professionalism and skill set to legislative concerns, the councils focus on maintaining a healthy industry.

—Eldon Bracken, President, Graphic Mart

PRO Select Committee Testimonial

Serving on the PRO council has given me the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge about other segments within our industry and the challenges that we face in this increasingly competitive market. Through working with our peers, we strive to provide value-added programs to our member companies and allow them a forum to address industry issues.

—Brian Champa, General Sales Manager, Check Corp.

PRO Member Testimonial

I believe that being a member of PRO keeps Auto Trim Restyling at the forefront of all that’s current in our industry. Staying in the loop and ahead of our competitors is the difference between a restyler and a PRO restyler.

—Kevin McGowan, President, Auto Trim Restyling

Connect With Us:

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• MySEMA
• Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/SEMApro)

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting addresses guests at PRO’s 2012 Novemberfest Industry Reception.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), a SEMA council, is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket and to developing effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues. PRO represents the collective interests of all SEMA-member companies serving the restyling and accessory market, including manufacturers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers reps or restylers and installers.

Leadership: Eldon Bracken, chairman; Jeff Fink, chair-elect
SEMA Council Director: Zane Clark
Cost: Manufacturer/Importer: $150; Warehouse/Multiline Distributor/Manufacturers’ Rep: $75; Installer/Restyler/Accessory Retailer/Service: $50
Industry Served: Restyling, specialty and automotive appearance companies
Website: www.sema.org/pro

Top Three Reasons to Join PRO

• Business Tools & Resources: The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) provides its members with effective programs and materials to help them grow and prosper. From the organization’s Sales Training Manual and Business Development Guidebook to the “Fast Track to Accessorization” brochure and hands-on training conferences, PRO offers its members invaluable marketing and training advantages.

• Networking: PRO members connect with peers, colleagues and suppliers at SEMA-sponsored trade shows, PRO council meetings, functions and special events. PRO members receive priority registration and discounted or free rates.

• Industry Awareness and Recognition: Members receive quarterly communications highlighting PRO activities and pertinent industry news. During the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, PRO members are given special invitations to attend the annual NovemberFest awards reception that pays tribute to industry leaders.

Message From the PRO Chair

Membership in a council is one of the greatest benefits of being a SEMA member. You are able to connect with people and companies that work with and represent your segment of the industry. Once you get involved, you see just how much work is done behind the scenes to preserve and grow the automotive aftermarket for the future. From the educational opportunities and increasing your professionalism and skill set to legislative concerns, the councils focus on maintaining a healthy industry.

—Eldon Bracken, President, Graphic Mart

PRO Select Committee Testimonial

Serving on the PRO council has given me the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge about other segments within our industry and the challenges that we face in this increasingly competitive market. Through working with our peers, we strive to provide value-added programs to our member companies and allow them a forum to address industry issues.

—Brian Champa, General Sales Manager, Check Corp.

PRO Member Testimonial

I believe that being a member of PRO keeps Auto Trim Restyling at the forefront of all that’s current in our industry. Staying in the loop and ahead of our competitors is the difference between a restyler and a PRO restyler.

—Kevin McGowan, President, Auto Trim Restyling

Connect With Us:

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• MySEMA
• Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/SEMApro)

By SEMA Staff

Here is a brief look at some of the recent news and updates happening in the specialty-equipment industry. Know someone who is moving on or moving up? 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.

Trevor Wiggins

Holley Performance Products Names Trevor Wiggins Vice President of Sales
Holley Performance Products announced that Trevor Wiggins has joined the company as vice president of sales. Wiggins will lead the Holley sales team in supporting customers of Holley fuel systems and other Holley products and brands, including Earl’s Performance Plumbing, NOS Nitrous Oxide Systems, Hooker Headers, FlowTech Exhaust and Weiand.

“Trevor’s lifetime of racing experience combined with his proven track record as a sales professional will help take Holley to the next level. Over the last few years we’ve been growing our sales force with an emphasis on technical expertise and we’re now very excited to have Trevor on board to lead the charge at the VP level,” said Tom Tomlinson, Holley’s president.

Prior to joining Holley, Wiggins was a national accounts manager for key automotive aftermarket accounts, including warehouse distributors and retailers as well as OEM customers across 92 locations worldwide.

Michael Re Promoted to Ticket Operations Manager for Sonoma Raceway
Michael Re, ticket operations manager for the Sonoma Raceway, was promoted to senior director of ticketing, raceway officials announced. Re has more than 25 years of ticketing experience and will manage the day-to-day operations of the ticketing department, including all aspects of ticket operations and services, policies and procedures related to ticket sales, pricing and allocation. He will also oversee customer relations. Re was hired at the raceway in 2011.

Goodguys 2013 AutoCross Shootout Feature Year-End Finals
The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association will stage a year-long National AutoCross Shootout at 11 events this season, with the year-end Shootout Finals Presented by BFGoodrich Tires to be held Saturday, November 16, at the Goodguys 16th Southwest Nationals (November 15–17, Scottsdale, Arizona). Throughout the year, the overall winner (fastest time of the event in any class) from each Goodguys National event where AutoCross is contested (third Fall Del Mar Nationals not included) will be invited to Scottsdale as a finalist for the AutoCross Finals Shootout.

The Shootout Finals Presented by BFGoodrich Tires will feature a 24-car field made up of 11 finalists from the year-long Shootout, nine PRO class drivers as well as four entrants who “race their way” into the Finals. Those final four slots will be filled by the fastest cars on-track Friday, November 15 at the Southwest Nationals. More information is available on the Goodguys website.

Daniel Humphrey Joins Timken
The Timken Co. appointed Daniel L. Humphrey to manager for its U.S. and Canadian commercial vehicle aftermarket business. Humphrey joined Timken in 2001 as an application engineer. Since then, he has held various positions within the commercial-vehicle original-equipment application engineering group, including group leader and special project leader. Humphrey most recently served as Eastern regional manager for the commercial vehicle aftermarket.

Chris Strappel Named FMI Territory Sales Manager
FMI announced that the company named Chris Strappel its territory sales manager. The announcement was made by FMI Automotive President Casey Lee. “We are very pleased to welcome Chris to FMI Automotive,” said Lee. “Chris has a wide variety of sales experience in the traditional aftermarket at all levels, including working closely with WDs, jobbers and service technicians. We know Chris will hit the ground running and will be an immediate asset to our organization.” Prior to joining FMI Automotive, he held a variety of sales positions for such aftermarket companies as Eastern Industries, Gates Corp. and Hahn Automotive.

Meyer Distributing Inc. Adds Champaign, Illinois, Location
Meyer Distributing Inc. announced the addition of its Champaign, Illinois location. The cross-dock will have a direct feed from Meyer's Jasper, Indiana, distribution hub which houses one of the largest inventories of automotive accessories in the nation. “The Champaign crossdock will add deliveries for long-standing Meyer accounts,” states Nick Gramelspacher, vice president of sales and marketing. “They will have even better access to massive inventories with next-day delivery. We are committed to giving our customers the best opportunity to provide great availability and high service level to their customers.”

John Adami Joins Grote Industries
Grote Industries has added John Adami to its OEM sales team. He is representing Grote to Freightliner (DTNA) and PACCAR, principally in Oregon and Washington state, and will report directly to Director of OEM Sales Eric Thorstensen. Adami brings with him almost 30 years of experience in OEM sales and support, working most recently as vice president of sales, North America for GT Development. In late 2011, Adami founded Northwest Heavy Duty Component Sales—a representation agency centered on OEM business with PACCAR and Daimler Truck North America.

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.