By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Vehicle owners and businesses acting on their behalf received a three-year exemption from federal copyright infringement laws when accessing, storing and sharing vehicle operational data, including diagnostic and telematics data, the Librarian of Congress (LOC) recently declared.

In establishing an exemption to the Digital Millenium Copyright Act, the United States statutory prohibition on circumventing technological protection measures (TPM) that control access to copyrighted works, the LOC, in consultation with the U.S. Copyright Office, is protecting vehicle owners and the automotive business of their choice from being subject to copyright infringement when they download, copy and use non-copyrightable data that is stored on electronic control units and other copyrightable works in their vehicles.

This exemption will help to preserve consumer choice by ensuring that vehicle owners can decide who works on their vehicles and the parts that are used. The Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) requested the Class 7, Computer Programs exemption in 2023, which SEMA supported in its comment to the LOC and U.S. Copyright Office.

The LOC also provided a three-year extension for the current exemption for "Computer Programs--Vehicle Operational Data" that protects vehicle owners and third-party service providers that circumvent the TPMs to access computer programs primarily designed to control vehicle telematics and entertainment systems. This exemption was first created in 2015 for vehicle owners and was expanded to include third-party service providers in 2018.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Vehicle owners and businesses acting on their behalf received a three-year exemption from federal copyright infringement laws when accessing, storing and sharing vehicle operational data, including diagnostic and telematics data, the Librarian of Congress (LOC) recently declared.

In establishing an exemption to the Digital Millenium Copyright Act, the United States statutory prohibition on circumventing technological protection measures (TPM) that control access to copyrighted works, the LOC, in consultation with the U.S. Copyright Office, is protecting vehicle owners and the automotive business of their choice from being subject to copyright infringement when they download, copy and use non-copyrightable data that is stored on electronic control units and other copyrightable works in their vehicles.

This exemption will help to preserve consumer choice by ensuring that vehicle owners can decide who works on their vehicles and the parts that are used. The Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) requested the Class 7, Computer Programs exemption in 2023, which SEMA supported in its comment to the LOC and U.S. Copyright Office.

The LOC also provided a three-year extension for the current exemption for "Computer Programs--Vehicle Operational Data" that protects vehicle owners and third-party service providers that circumvent the TPMs to access computer programs primarily designed to control vehicle telematics and entertainment systems. This exemption was first created in 2015 for vehicle owners and was expanded to include third-party service providers in 2018.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Toyota/Lexus GT3 Spotted Testing at 'The Ring'

SEMA News sources recently captured new images of Toyota and Lexus testing their road-legal GT3 sports car at Germany's Nürburgring Nordschleife.

As seen in the new images, the manufacturer is testing two different rear wing heights on the GT3, although it's unclear which will make it to production. The vehicle is also rumored to have a hybrid powertrain, according to some sources, but there is no visible charging port or usual yellow "electric vehicle" (EV) warning stickers.

Range Rover Sport EV Prototype Spied in Germany

The new Range Rover Sport EV, expected to hit United States showrooms next year, was recently spotted in Germany. An expected competitor to the Lotus Eletre and Porsche Cayenne EV, the Sport EV is one of six electric vehicles Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) plans to launch by 2026 under its two brands.

The test car spotted in Germany shows key differences from the gas-powered version, such as covers replacing the exhaust pipes and a redesigned grille. The battery is housed between the axles, and while not visible in the photos, the charging port is likely behind the fuel filler cap, similar to the recently launched Range Rover Electric.

The Range Rover Sport EV will have four-wheel drive, maintaining the off-road capabilities of its gas-powered counterpart, including the ability to wade through water up to 33.5 in. deep. Performance metrics will rival the V8-powered Range Rover Sport SV, which produces 630 hp and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

Nissan Leaf Prototype Ditches Hatchback Design

In a major shift, the next-generation Nissan Leaf will no longer be a family hatchback, according to new images provided by SEMA News source, instead, transforming into a crossover SUV.

The styling cues, like the coupe-like roofline, squared-off rear and higher ride height, echo the Japanese brand's "Chill-Out" concept introduced in 2021. While the production model's headlight cluster may differ slightly from the initial concept, the new Leaf will likely feature Nissan's signature black V-motion grille and boomerang-style lights, reminiscent of the Nissan Ariya.

The Leaf is expected to be built on the Renault-Nissan AmpR Medium platform, offering some hints about its powertrain and battery specifications. According to insiders, the Leaf will likely align with other cars built on the platform, like the Renault Megane E-Tech, which is equipped with a 217hp electric motor and 60kWh battery, offering an estimated range of up to 280 miles.

Inside, the new Leaf will likely feature Nissan's latest infotainment system, based on Google's Android Automotive OS.

Nissan hasn't confirmed a release date yet, but rumors suggest that production could start as early as 2025, with a reveal possibly happening before the end of this year. The new Leaf will be manufactured at Nissan's Sunderland plant in the United King.

By SEMA News Editors

MOTORMIA

AI-Powered Automotive Platform

MOTORMIA has released a new automotive enthusiast platform that aims to personalize the connection between enthusiasts and their vehicles, according to the company. The platform's AI assistant tailors users' experiences to various levels of knowledge, generate vehicle renderings, make performance upgrade suggestions adjustable to experience levels and help users understand the best choices for specific build goals. The platform also allows users to share with friends. MOTORMIA will exhibit at the SEMA Show in booth #11179 in the North Hall.

motormia.co.

Heise LED Lighting Systems

Chasing Ambient Interior Light

Heise LED Lighting Systems by Metra Electronics will display new vehicle lighting and accessories at this year's SEMA Show, including an assortment of new Chasing Ambient Interior Lighting expansion packs, in booth #10439 in the North Hall and booth #24743 in the Central Hall. The expansion packs expand the Heise LED ambient lighting system in the interior of any vehicle and work with the Heise Connect Chasing Controller, allowing users to control the lighting via the Heise Connect mobile app.

heiseled.com.

QA1

'82-'92 GM F-Body Suspension Kits

QA1 has released new handling and drag-race suspension kits for third-generation Chevrolet Camaro or Pontiac Firebird ('82-'92). The kits provide improved performance, handling, traction and adjustability for both street and strip applications, according to the manufacturer, and are designed to optimize the performance of the third generation F-body, allowing enthusiasts to enhance the capabilities of their cars without the need for major modifications or relying on mismatched components. Three levels of handling kits and two levels of drag kits are available. QA1 will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show in booth #21357 in the Central Hall.

qa1.net.

Tire Guru

Tire Price Optimizer

Tire Guru will debut its new Tire Price Optimizer software that leverages real-time local market pricing data to price inventory according to profit goals within the shop management system software. Features include price rankings against local competitors, view of inventory priced below market, potential profit based on pricing, recommendations on pricing strategy and more. SEMA Show attendees can see a demo of the software in the Tire Guru booths #42177 (South Hall) or #11253 (North Hall).

tireguru.net.

Nordic American

Ford Performance Valve Cover

Nordic American has introduced all-new valve cover designs for Ford Performance. The diecast valve covers have an innovative, lightweight design that doesn't sacrifice strength, the company said. Each cover comes with an injected, molded O-ring to ensure enhanced strength, durability and a consistent shape. Ford Performance will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show, located in booth #54037 in the West Hall.

nappllc.com.

By SEMA News Editors

MOTORMIA

AI-Powered Automotive Platform

MOTORMIA has released a new automotive enthusiast platform that aims to personalize the connection between enthusiasts and their vehicles, according to the company. The platform's AI assistant tailors users' experiences to various levels of knowledge, generate vehicle renderings, make performance upgrade suggestions adjustable to experience levels and help users understand the best choices for specific build goals. The platform also allows users to share with friends. MOTORMIA will exhibit at the SEMA Show in booth #11179 in the North Hall.

motormia.co.

Heise LED Lighting Systems

Chasing Ambient Interior Light

Heise LED Lighting Systems by Metra Electronics will display new vehicle lighting and accessories at this year's SEMA Show, including an assortment of new Chasing Ambient Interior Lighting expansion packs, in booth #10439 in the North Hall and booth #24743 in the Central Hall. The expansion packs expand the Heise LED ambient lighting system in the interior of any vehicle and work with the Heise Connect Chasing Controller, allowing users to control the lighting via the Heise Connect mobile app.

heiseled.com.

QA1

'82-'92 GM F-Body Suspension Kits

QA1 has released new handling and drag-race suspension kits for third-generation Chevrolet Camaro or Pontiac Firebird ('82-'92). The kits provide improved performance, handling, traction and adjustability for both street and strip applications, according to the manufacturer, and are designed to optimize the performance of the third generation F-body, allowing enthusiasts to enhance the capabilities of their cars without the need for major modifications or relying on mismatched components. Three levels of handling kits and two levels of drag kits are available. QA1 will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show in booth #21357 in the Central Hall.

qa1.net.

Tire Guru

Tire Price Optimizer

Tire Guru will debut its new Tire Price Optimizer software that leverages real-time local market pricing data to price inventory according to profit goals within the shop management system software. Features include price rankings against local competitors, view of inventory priced below market, potential profit based on pricing, recommendations on pricing strategy and more. SEMA Show attendees can see a demo of the software in the Tire Guru booths #42177 (South Hall) or #11253 (North Hall).

tireguru.net.

Nordic American

Ford Performance Valve Cover

Nordic American has introduced all-new valve cover designs for Ford Performance. The diecast valve covers have an innovative, lightweight design that doesn't sacrifice strength, the company said. Each cover comes with an injected, molded O-ring to ensure enhanced strength, durability and a consistent shape. Ford Performance will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show, located in booth #54037 in the West Hall.

nappllc.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Omar Mora, engineering project lead at WARN Industries, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Mora in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Omar Mora: At the end of the day, ask yourself, what are you trying to accomplish? Sometimes we get stuck too deep in the weeds, so we need to take a step back to re-evaluate what we're doing, and what is the true goal. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

OM: I've always been drawn to anything automotive so staying in this field just feels right for me. Getting to be a part of great, recognizable products is a great bonus! 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

OM: Tinkering with my vehicles or making useful things for the home. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

OM: I gather and get familiar with as much subject-matter information as is reasonable. Being informed and having a plan helps me maintain focus, but adapt as required. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

OM: Any Formula 1 engineering/technical lead. I'd be interested in learning how those teams operate; how they plan their concepts; how they control and organize information; how they feed that information into their design teams; and how those design teams produce new designs, changes, and adjustments as quickly as they do. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

Time is running out to submit nominations for SEMA's 2024 Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, October 30.

Submit your nomination at this link.

Now in its second year, the award honors a featured vehicle at the 2024 SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. It also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering. 

"Engineers are continuously pushing the envelope to come up with new innovations that benefit our industry," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "We look forward to seeing the outstanding creations and technical brilliance that this year's builders will bring."  

In 2023, Scorpion EV won the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award for its '23 Cobra Venom. The build was an electric vehicle (EV) conversion car designed to demonstrate the ease with which internal-combustion engine vehicles can be converted to electric power. The car showcased Scorpion EV's Venom EV conversion kit, which solves the challenges related to EV conversions by providing the DIY builder with a complete, turnkey solution. 

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the engineering content included in the build, as well as the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted until October 30, 2024, at this link.

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, November 7, at the 2024 SEMA Show. 

By Ashley Reyes

Business members attending the 2024 SEMA Show can enhance their experience and enjoy a range of exclusive perks by visiting the SEMA Business Member Lounge centrally located between the North and Central Halls.  

The member lounge, situated in the North Hall (Room N251), is designed to provide SEMA business members with a go-to stop for convenience and connection during the bustling SEMA Show. 

Here's why the lounge is a must-visit for member attendees: 

1. Networking Hub: SEMA business members can host important meetings with industry leaders and business partners in the comfort of this exclusive lounge. It's the ideal setting for meaningful connections and discussions. 
2. Tech and Connectivity: Need to stay connected? The lounge offers internet and printer services, ensuring that you're always equipped with the tools to stay productive during the event. 
3. Charging Stations: Don't let your devices run out of juice while capturing all of the jaw-dropping automotive moments at the show. Charging stations are available to keep your gadgets powered up. 
4. Complimentary Coffee: Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee to recharge yourself while exploring the SEMA Show. 
5. On-Site Grab 'N' Go: Say goodbye to hunger pit-stops. The lounges offer delicious food options for purchase, allowing you to refuel before hitting the Show floor again. 

The member lounge is the perfect place to unwind, connect with industry peers and make the most of your SEMA Show experience.

If you're interested in securing a meeting room within the lounge, visit this link.

For questions about SEMA membership, contact the SEMA Membership Team at 909-610-2030 or at members@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Don't wait--secure your SEMA Fest tickets before the next price bump on Friday!

Click HERE to buy tickets.

Due to high demand, ticket prices for SEMA Fest--scheduled for Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show campus--are increasing. Purchase tickets before Friday to lock in the best deal and guarantee your spot at the most exciting event of the year. From epic live performances by Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums, and Petey to exclusive access to the SEMA Show and thrilling experiences like OPTIMA Unleashed, you won't want to miss out.  

Act fast--grab your tickets today before prices rise! 

Purchase your tickets now and find out more information at semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Don't wait--secure your SEMA Fest tickets before the next price bump on Friday!

Click HERE to buy tickets.

Due to high demand, ticket prices for SEMA Fest--scheduled for Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show campus--are increasing. Purchase tickets before Friday to lock in the best deal and guarantee your spot at the most exciting event of the year. From epic live performances by Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums, and Petey to exclusive access to the SEMA Show and thrilling experiences like OPTIMA Unleashed, you won't want to miss out.  

Act fast--grab your tickets today before prices rise! 

Purchase your tickets now and find out more information at semashow.com.