RealTruck Inc.--the premier manufacturer of aftermarket truck parts and accessories--has officially rebranded all areas of its business following a training session at the SEMA Garage in Detroit. 

RealTruck sent its sales team to a three-day cross-training event at the SEMA Garage to ensure its team members are equipped to assist its customers. Participants received classroom instruction on more than 300 of RealTruck's vast product offerings and hands-on training for the installation of several truck bed covers, including the upcoming Retrax EQ, AMP PowerSteps, BackRack headache racks, AVS LightShield Pro and more straight from the state-of-the-art facility. 

"SEMA Garage offers us a unique opportunity to train a large group of people in a comfortable, well-equipped facility. Having a garage setting that will accommodate a lot of trucks and people to experience 'hands-on' installations is an important and welcome resource," said Ryan Herman, executive vice president of sales at RealTruck.  

The SEMA research and validation facility is 45,000 sq. ft., giving 7,000 SEMA-member businesses access to 3D scanning, 3D printing, ADAS testing, vehicle measuring sessions, fully equipped bays, and emissions testing and certification. 

"There really isn't a facility that can accommodate our needs as well as SEMA Garage. We brought in our entire outside sales force from around the country, and this experience has been a terrific way to teach, share and work together," said Herman. 

RealTruck announced its rebrand from Truck Hero last July and, since then, has been working with its various departments and facilities to roll out a new brand identity and sales team. In addition, the company has transitioned its manufacturing websites and dealer locator to realtruck.com, making it easier for millions of do-it-for-me truck owners to find dealers and local resources for professional installation.

For more information, including how to sign up for the SEMA Garage services, visit SEMAGarage.com or contact garage@sema.org. For more information on RealTruck, visit realtruck.com.

Lawmakers have banded together to show their support of the aftermarket industry and the future of internal combustion engine (ICE) innovations. 

U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and 150 House Republican members sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging him to rescind the agency's proposed emissions standards for light-, medium-duty vehicles and heavy-duty trucks.

U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and SEMA CEO and President Mike Spagnola.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) thanks Chairwoman McMorris Rodgers for her leadership in opposing the EPA's draft multipollutant rulemaking for model years '27 through '32 motor vehicles. If finalized, the EPA estimates the rule would lead to electric vehicles (EVs) making up two-thirds of new passenger vehicles sold in the United States by 2032. SEMA opposes the rulemaking, as consumers and the marketplace should be able to choose the vehicle technology that works best for them.

Congressional Republican members have come out in strong opposition to the EPA's proposed rulemaking, as evidenced by the supermajority of the House Republican Caucus signing the letter opposing the EPA's effort to transition the U.S. motor-vehicle fleet away from the ICE. 

There are many options on the road to zero emissions; it is crucial for government policy to remain technology neutral. The specialty-equipment market business has been built around ICE technology. However, the industry is leading the way in fuel innovations and converting old vehicles into new and cleaner innovations. Hydrogen and other renewable fuels, including synthetic eFuels, will allow legacy vehicles to operate in a carbon-neutral manner and should have an equal seat at the table. 

Recently, six SEMA members and SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola testified before the EPA in opposition to the agency's recently proposed new federal emissions standards. SEMA encourages industry businesses to submit comments to the EPA opposing the proposal while highlighting both the importance of maintaining a technology-neutral approach to motor-vehicle technology and the adverse impacts the rule would have on the future of the automotive industry.  

Click here to sign a letter opposing the EPA's proposal, which provides an opportunity to personalize the text and explain how the agency's push to an all-electric future will impact your business.

For more information, visit sema.org/EPA-Proposed-Greenhouse-Gas-Rules or contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

Lawmakers have banded together to show their support of the aftermarket industry and the future of internal combustion engine (ICE) innovations. 

U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and 150 House Republican members sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging him to rescind the agency's proposed emissions standards for light-, medium-duty vehicles and heavy-duty trucks.

U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and SEMA CEO and President Mike Spagnola.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) thanks Chairwoman McMorris Rodgers for her leadership in opposing the EPA's draft multipollutant rulemaking for model years '27 through '32 motor vehicles. If finalized, the EPA estimates the rule would lead to electric vehicles (EVs) making up two-thirds of new passenger vehicles sold in the United States by 2032. SEMA opposes the rulemaking, as consumers and the marketplace should be able to choose the vehicle technology that works best for them.

Congressional Republican members have come out in strong opposition to the EPA's proposed rulemaking, as evidenced by the supermajority of the House Republican Caucus signing the letter opposing the EPA's effort to transition the U.S. motor-vehicle fleet away from the ICE. 

There are many options on the road to zero emissions; it is crucial for government policy to remain technology neutral. The specialty-equipment market business has been built around ICE technology. However, the industry is leading the way in fuel innovations and converting old vehicles into new and cleaner innovations. Hydrogen and other renewable fuels, including synthetic eFuels, will allow legacy vehicles to operate in a carbon-neutral manner and should have an equal seat at the table. 

Recently, six SEMA members and SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola testified before the EPA in opposition to the agency's recently proposed new federal emissions standards. SEMA encourages industry businesses to submit comments to the EPA opposing the proposal while highlighting both the importance of maintaining a technology-neutral approach to motor-vehicle technology and the adverse impacts the rule would have on the future of the automotive industry.  

Click here to sign a letter opposing the EPA's proposal, which provides an opportunity to personalize the text and explain how the agency's push to an all-electric future will impact your business.

For more information, visit sema.org/EPA-Proposed-Greenhouse-Gas-Rules or contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

By SEMA Editors

The 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, in Las Vegas, is already gearing up to be the best yet. Now that the floorplan is live, buyers and attendees can maximize their Show experience by utilizing the interactive map and exhibitor list at SEMAShow.com/floorplan alongside additional resources, including registration, at SEMAShow.com/attendee.  

Meanwhile, exhibitors are already planning their displays to put their latest innovations in front of thousands of qualified buyers from every segment of the specialty-equipment industry. To prepare SEMA Show exhibitors for success, below are 10 valuable resources--straight from the Exhibitor Service Manual--that companies should bookmark to reference throughout the next few months. Note that, in addition to the relationships an exhibitor forms with their SEMA sales rep, the media team and the Show Department, the entire Exhibitor Service Manual is the official exhibitor's handbook for success. 

Budget Check List

Link
This is an essential tool for all participating manufacturers, but especially first-time exhibitors. This form allows companies to calculate all of their confirmed and projected fees for everything from booth space; exhibit design and build; electrical, freight and material handling and related services; plus marketing and staff expenses.

Deadlines List

Link
Discover key dates for exhibitors, including registration, applications such as feature vehicle display, rates for the New Products Showcase, plus vital exhibitor services and related dates.

Contact List

Link
Find out how to contact the Show organizers that can help you succeed with categories like banquet tickets, booth vehicles, feature vehicles, New Product Showcase, meeting rooms and more.

Parking at the SEMA Show

Link
Especially helpful for exhibitors with trailers; discover where you can park leading up to and during the event.

Booth Services – Freeman

Link
This section addresses booth needs, such as power, carpet, fixtures, freight, A/V and computer rentals, cleaning, signs and graphics, and more.

Booth Services – Approved Vendors

Link
Access the vendors that can help with lead retrieval, catering, insurance, vehicle detailing, tent and canopy rental, internet and telephone, photography, and more.

Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities

Link
Exhibitors can explore the various opportunities to display their vehicles at the SEMA Show both inside and outside of the booth. For those wanting to exhibit their vehicle in the Feature Vehicle Display (outside of the booth), learn more about the Feature Vehicle Rules & Regulations here and apply here.

Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships

Link
This section provides the gamut of marketing opportunities at the SEMA Show, including the New Products Showcase, the No. 1 destination for media members and buyers to discover the latest innovations from the Show floor. The first product entry is free for exhibitors. Learn more here, and apply here.

Exhibitor Rules and Reg

Link
Discover essential information, including applications, fees, payments, safety requirements, etc. 

SEMA Exhibitor Summit

Link
Exhibitors should also plan to attend the 2023 SEMA Exhibitor Summit, the two-day event (Tuesday, July 25-Wednesday, July 26) that covers everything needed to exhibit like a professional. SEMA will cover hotel costs for up to two members of each exhibiting company for this unique program, which teaches exhibitors how to:

• Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
• Use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth.
• Save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses.
• Work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI.
• Learn to properly plan and budget to leverage your Show experience.
• Explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods.
• Maximize your SEMA Show exhibit experience.

Register for the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit. Contact your SEMA Show sales representative at semashow@sema.org, 909-396-0289 or semashow.com/contact to learn more.

There is still great booth space available for manufacturers looking to get involved in the 2023 SEMA Show. Get started at SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

The Porsche 911 ST, a limited-edition special build sold from 1970 to 1971, appears to be returning. With just 24 units sold, Porsche will pay tribute to the iconic 911 ST and its success, with a special edition expected to be launched before the end of 2023. It will be based on the current generation 911 but will carry the ST name.

Sources have spotted the car, which appears to be using the 911 GT3 Touring as its base with a modified body, most notably a modified double bubble roof. In addition, the rear camouflage on the front fenders presumably hides some GT3 RS-like air intakes. 

There's no word on how much power the 911 ST will produce, but since it's based on the GT3 Touring, the 4.0L flat-six should deliver at least 502 hp.

The Porsche 911 ST is expected to launch before the end of this year as a '24 model. 

Spy Shot: '24 Hyundai Elantra

Sources captured the '24 Hyundai Elantra without any camouflage in downtown Los Angeles.

The Elantra features an all-new front end with new headlights that appear noticeably slimmer and oriented more horizontally, indicating a departure from the previous model. In addition, the front fascia has a completely redesigned appearance, with a new grille shape and a fully reworked front bumper.

While the changes made to the rear fascia are more subtle in comparison, there are minor revisions to the taillights and the rear bumper.

Sources expect the official debut of the '24 Hyundai Elantra in the coming months.

By Ashley Reyes

What is a social-media calendar and how can aftermarket brands use it to create and maintain a strong social-media presence?

Dan Kahn, founder of Kahn Media, and Barry Alt, founder of Motorhead Digital, recently shared tips for using social media in the aftermarket space. Watch highlights from their webinar "Introduction to the Three Cs of Social Media: Content, Calendar and Channels, presented by ARMO," below. 

Watch the full webinar here. [Note: logging into your SEMA.org account is required.]

You'll learn best practices for planning out your social-media content, where to find ideas when you get stuck and how aftermarket brands can create content that builds engagement rather than just pushes out information.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is hosting a networking Happy Hour during Minnesota Steet Rod Association's Back to the '50s Weekend on Thursday, June 22, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. EDT.

All HRIA members are invited to O'Gara's Restaurant at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, where they can network with industry friends, meet other hot-rod businesses and enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages.

Attendees will learn about HRIA's latest initiatives, meet members of the select committee and discover how to get more involved with the council. Prospective members are also invited to attend, as it will be a great event to learn about the HRIA member benefits available to hot-rod businesses.

RSVP here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) has named Kustom Built Cars Educational Workshop as this week's member spotlight company. Get to know the company in SEMA News' interview with business manager, Shelby Robison, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of your shop. How did you start? 

Shelby Robison: Kustom Built Cars Educational Workshop is a nonprofit program that teaches valuable skills to students out of high school to rebuild a classic vehicle from start to finish. Our five-month workshop gives students hands-on training, which includes disassembly, basic suspension work, color sanding, rust repair, basic engine rebuilding, assembly, metal work, basic welding, electrical wiring, body work, basic fabrication and painting. Through training and mentorship, this workshop aims to inspire the next generation to acquire the knowledge and skills in the automotive restoration and preservation industry by creating a hands-on experience. For more information, you can visit our webpage at kustombuiltcars.org or email us at info@kustombuiltcars.org. We are also on social media, so follow us for some awesome builds!

SN: What are some of the program's advantages for students?

SR: Kustom Built Cars Educational Workshop teaches all the basic skills of restoration and gets students into the workplace after five months. The students then get help with job placement after finishing the program in the automotive industry. So far, 100% of our students are now in the automotive industry after completing our workshop! The student's build is then showcased at the SEMA Show, accompanied by all the student builders. Kustom Built Cars also has a booth at Barrett Jackson where the project build is displayed, and the students get to talk about their experience building it. The project build is then auctioned off, and the proceeds come back into the program for the new build and scholarships. We have given $164,100 in scholarships for students to learn classic car restoration. Kustom Built Cars Educational Workshop takes pride in small class sizes, hands-on training and building awesome projects.

SN: Is there a specific project we should know about?

SR: Kustom Built Cars Educational Workshop students will be building/customizing a '54 Chevy 3100 from start to finish. We hope to showcase it at the SEMA Show in October. 

SN: Tell us some other builds you are also proud of.

SR: Each build is special to us, as we have new students and builds every year. So far, we have built a '53 Chevy 3100 and a '51 Ford F1; both were amazing builds.

SN: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket?

SR: There is so much to learn in the automotive industry and you never stop learning. Taking workshops or classes helps you find what you are interested in so you can further your education and whatever path you choose to take. Always be the best at what you do so you stand out among others.
 

Fill out an HRIA-member spotlight form to highlight how your company is contributing to the hot-rod industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on HRIA's social media, SEMA News and future HRIA-member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

Building a diverse network is important for discovering new ideas and perspectives that can help you grow your professional career and business.

To help wheel and tire professionals in the automotive aftermarket establish new business connections, the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) will host its next Coffee and Conversation networking event, June 1 at 9:00 a.m. PDT/12:00 p.m. EDT.

The free online event will bring wheel and tire professionals together from different occupations and include an informative discussion on challenges and opportunities facing the wheel and tire industry. It's the ideal event to connect with others with varying perspectives on the industry, create new business connections, and gain insight into problems and solutions in the wheel and tire market.

"I certainly learned a lot from those that contributed," said Jeff Wade of Aftermarket Sales about the first WTC Coffee and Conversations event. "It was interesting to hear the points of view from various individuals from different segments within the industry. I look forward to the next session!"

Register for the event here. 

By Ashley Reyes

Battery management systems (BMS) are key to safe electric vehicle (EV) operation and affect vehicle performance and battery life. Knowing why they exist, what they do and how to use them is critical to prevent battery damage and maintain battery life when modifying an EV for increased performance.  

During the webinar "Battery Management Systems: Functions and Calibration" on Wednesday, June 7, at 1:00 p.m. (PDT), automotive aftermarket engineers and product developers will learn how to utilize and control the battery pack in EVs--including how to control the temperature of the BMS, track the battery's state of charge and balance performance during operation. Attendees will hear from Eddy Borysewicz, CEO and founder of Revolt Systems and an expert in EV conversions, and walk away with a deeper understanding of BMS systems and the importance of proper battery care. 

Borysewicz led his team to power the fastest EV on the planet in 2021, shattering world records at Bonneville for a top speed of 359 mph. Register for the webinar to tap into his expertise.