By SEMA Editors

Last week, the bipartisan Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act was reintroduced in the U.S. Senate. Why? Because automotive enthusiasts, aftermarket businesses and the racing community have stepped up and made their voices heard in an unprecedented way.

So far this year, RPM Act supporters have come together and written more than 1.5 million letters to Congress, and lawmakers are paying attention. Every letter and phone call matters, and we must continue to remind lawmakers that we are in this fight for as long as it takes.

There have already been several well-known aftermarket businesses that have joined forces with SEMA and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) and have committed to raising awareness and support for passing the RPM Act. The following are some of the outstanding companies that are working to keep the momentum going:

• Titan Motorsports – Orlando, Florida
• Edelbrock Group – Olive Branch, Mississippi
• Callies Performance – Fostoria, Ohio
• JEGS Performance – Delaware, Ohio
• Summit Racing – Tallmadge, Ohio
• Turn 14 Distribution – Horsham, Pennsylvania
• Enjuku Racing – Clermont, Florida

We encourage all aftermarket businesses to join the effort. You or your company—or both—can also do several things to make your voice heard and join the community to move the RPM Act ahead.

Here is a list of five things you can do right now to help the cause:

• Send a personal letter to your lawmakers at: saveourracecars.com. A letter has already been drafted. It takes less than a minute to fill in your contract information, which ensures that your letter is sent to your U.S. Representatives and Senators.
• Sign a letter to your lawmakers on company letterhead. Email erics@sema.org for a template and for more information.
• Post about the RPM Act on your company’s social media accounts using the toolkit of digital assets.

Become a member of SEMA and learn more about SEMA’s Political Action Committee (SEMA PAC). SEMA PAC allows SEMA members to support the lawmakers that stand up for our industry in Washington. The racing community must continue to unite and do everything we can to Save Our Race Cars!

To find out more about the details of the bill and the lawmakers who are sponsoring it, visit the latest article, “Senators Introduce RPM Act Into U.S. Senate”.

The SEMA Data Excellence designation recognizes the companies that have worked with SEMA Data to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets. Here are products from current SEMA Data members that have achieved data excellence.

ZyBar

4-oz. Midnight Black Finish

ZyBar 4-oz. Midnight Black Finish high-temperature heat-dissipation coating is designed to reduce radiant heat and under-hood temperatures, while offering outstanding corrosion resistance, providing lasting color stability under the most extreme engine conditions and extending the life of your components. ZyBar is rated to internal temperatures well in excess of 2000 F. ZyBar is a single component, durable polymer coating that far outperforms ceramic paints, wraps and heat tapes. ZyBar is spray-applied inside and outside the component. ZyBar treats manifolds, headers, turbo housings, exhaust, brakes and intakes. ZyBar is a thin .001-.0025 film coating that is either oven cured (2 hours @ 450 F) or air cured (120 hours).

https://zycoat.com
PN: 11004

Oracle Lighting

Bumper LED Reverse Lights for Jeep

Gladiator JT & JL

Designed for function and durability, these lights feature an aluminum housing with PMMA lens while also maintaining the rear reflector function with a scaled-down version integrated into the housing.

These compact lights pack a big punch with a total of 30 high-powered LEDs to add additional lighting to improve your Jeep Gladiator reverse visibility. They come ready to install out of the box, ensuring that you will have rear visibility in your Jeep Gladiator when it matters. Installation uses factory mounting hardware, and these lights tie into the rear light wiring with the included T-taps or with the optional Plug-and-Play adapter for even easier installation.

Additional features and specifications include:

• Connects to existing reverse light power source without error code.
• Integrated rear reflector for OE appearance and function.
• Total of 30 high-powered LEDs with 3,000 raw Lumen output.
• Aluminum housing with black powdercoat finish.
• Optic-focused beam pattern for an extended field of view.

www.oraclelights.com
PN: 5878-504 & 5881-504

HushMat

’75–’78 Dodge Charger Complete Kit

Sound deadening and thermal insulation material is designed to make every type of vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable to drive and enjoy! HushMat is an easy-to-install, USA-made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface. No tools, glues and or special equipment is needed to install HushMat. Simply peel and stick. HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a year-, make- and model-specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers. HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed.

https://hushmat.com
PN: 66273

By Ashley Reyes

Mark your calendars for September 30, when Ringbrothers open up for a live video interview. As part of the SEMA Automotive Restoration Organization (ARMO) Builder Series, Ringbrothers’ Jim and Mike Ring will kick off the first live interview in the series.

The unedited, candid conversation will be hosted by Sabra Johnson of City Classic Cars, and include an honest dialogue about Ringbrothers’ career journeys, the road that led them to building custom SEMA Show cars and manufacturing some of the world’s most innovative aftermarket parts.

Join them as they uncover surprising stories and talk about what inspires them to keep breaking industry norms. Register here for the ARMO Builder Series live webinar featuring Ringbrothers.

By Ashley Reyes

Kelleigh Ash, director of sales, marketing and brand management at KW automotive North America Inc., is the latest SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) member to share her insight on how her company pivoted during the pandemic and utilized technology to keep business moving forward.

Get to know what technology tools have increased her company’s speed-to-market and what new trends she is seeing in sales and marketing in her interview with SEMA below.

SEMA: How has your company pivoted during the pandemic?  

Kelleigh Ash: In 2020, we had to run on split shifts for months to socially distance and limit exposure. As an example, we had to run two separate shifts in our R&D department while developing the first-to-market performance coilover suspension system for the new C8. This was a huge challenge, and we pivoted our product development process to utilize virtual tools and new technologies to achieve our goal. In spite of this challenge, our team is made up of some serious engineering rockstars, and they knocked it out of the park and delivered on time.

SEMA: What technology tools—new or old—have you leaned on recently?

KA: We have utilized new 3D printing technology, 3D scanning, 3D animations, AI and augmented reality just to name a few. The past 18 months have forced these new technologies, as it relates to engineering and product development, to the forefront of utilization. These new technologies have increased speed-to-market, decreased costs and allowed us to forge paths for new product innovations in ways we never thought possible.

SEMA: What new trends have you noticed with sales and marketing?

KA: Product data and content have never been more important. Our industry was in the middle of the shift to a majority of digital content and a digital consumer shopping experience. The pandemic has catapulted our industry into this digital market, as consumers had no choice but to shop from their phones during lockdown. Showing off your product features and benefits, immersing the consumer in your product on their phones or tablets and making them feel like they can touch and feel your product in a virtual environment is key to success today.

SEMA: What, if any, changes in business do you feel will outlive the pandemic?

KA: I believe that working from anywhere (not just from home) and virtual meetings are here to stay. Companies learned quickly that certain roles can be managed productively and effectively remotely, and that virtual meetings can be just as effective. Additionally, the consumer shift to a digital-only shopping experience is here to stay.

Fill out this form for a chance to be featured in the next ETTN member insight. By sharing your experiences, you can inspire and motivate other members to learn new tips and ideas. You may also be featured on ETTN’s social media and in SEMA eNews.

By SEMA Editors

Approved media attending the 2021 SEMA Show will have access to the SEMA Show Media Center, one of the many exclusive resources available to help reporters and journalists maximize their time at the November 2–5 trade-only Show in Las Vegas.

Located in Room S219—on the Skybridge between Central and South Halls—the Media Center is where approved media will pick up their credentials for the first industry-wide in-person gathering since 2019. Reporters can use the Media Center as a home base during the week to develop and file stories on the many exhibitors, new products and vehicle reveals at the Show.

New this year, credentialed media will have the ability to avoid the general concession stands in the Las Vegas Convention Center during the week of the SEMA Show by quickly purchasing lunch or snacks in the Media Center. Free coffee, water and limited snacks will still be available in the Media Center, but this new benefit will help journalists save time and allow them to focus on interviewing exhibitors and creating content while at the Show.

Also, complimentary laptops will not be available in the Media Center this year, but journalists will continue to have access to dedicated work areas with free media-only Wi-Fi and electrical outlets to charge all devices. Complimentary copy services, the SEMA Show Directory, exhibitor press materials and limited private lockers will remain available in the Media Center.

“We are committed to helping media before, during and after the SEMA Show, and are working to make their SEMA Show experience a positive and successful one,” said SEMA Media Relations Manager Juan Torres. “We continue to seek ways to better assist media at the SEMA Show, and welcome their input and ideas.”

The 2021 SEMA Show Media Center will be open:

• Thursday, October 28: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 29: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 30: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 31: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Monday, Nov. 1: 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 2: 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 3: 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 4: 8:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 5: 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

For additional information about this year's SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/media or contact SEMA PR at pr@sema.org. 

This is the ’22 Mustang GT California Special Edition undergoing testing in Dearborn, Michigan, with masked logos and badges on the grille, door and decklid.

Based on the engine note, the convertible musclecar is still powered by Ford's 5.0L Coyote V8 and is mated to a six-speed manual. The only visual difference that we can find is a different set of wheels that is similar to (but not the same as) the units used on the Mustang Bullitt that was discontinued after the ’20 model year.

Exactly why Ford is updating the S550 Mustang so late in its lifecycle is puzzling, but it may just be a play to wring out some additional bucks before it goes to pasture.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

This is the ’22 Mustang GT California Special Edition undergoing testing in Dearborn, Michigan, with masked logos and badges on the grille, door and decklid.

Based on the engine note, the convertible musclecar is still powered by Ford's 5.0L Coyote V8 and is mated to a six-speed manual. The only visual difference that we can find is a different set of wheels that is similar to (but not the same as) the units used on the Mustang Bullitt that was discontinued after the ’20 model year.

Exactly why Ford is updating the S550 Mustang so late in its lifecycle is puzzling, but it may just be a play to wring out some additional bucks before it goes to pasture.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

By Kyle Cheng

Electric and hybrid powertrains are slowly gaining popularity. By 2035, SEMA Market Research projects that alternative power (electric, hybrid, fuel cell, etc.) will account for 45% of all new light vehicles sold. However, significant challenges remain to more mainstream adoption of this technology.

By and large, American consumers still prefer traditional engines, with 74% saying they want a gas or diesel engine for their next vehicle. Concerns around charging, range, cost and safety as well as infrastructure needs are limiting factors. Currently, alternative power only represents 1% of all vehicles in operation. Even as these vehicles grow, given that the average vehicle stays in operation for just over 12 years, it will take a while for old vehicles to cycle out—so traditional engines aren’t going away anytime soon.

Want to learn more about the future of alternative power and its potential impact on the specialty-equipment industry? Download the new SEMA “Emerging Trends: Electrification, Alternative Power and Advanced Technology” report today at www.sema.org/research.

By Ashley Reyes

With a deep history in the hot-rod market, the 2021 SEMA Show will bring together some of the original founders and heroes in the industry. On the Show floor in Hot Rod Alley (located in Central Hall), attendees will find dozens of iconic brands, such as Classic Instruments, Mooneyes, Vintage Air and Flaming River, exhibiting alongside newer manufacturers and media outlets, including Engaged Media, Hemming Motor News and In Gear Media.

In Hot Rod Alley, attendees will find one-of-a-kind custom builds, from vintage classic cars and street rods to musclecars and custom designs. Representatives from the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will also be on hand in the HRIA booth (#23295), where businesses in the industry can learn how the group can help them connect and unite with other businesses in the hot-rod segment.

Throughout the Show week, special events and educational seminars will take place specifically for the hot-rod industry. Hot-rod members are invited and encouraged to attend the following events to make the most out of their SEMA Show experience:

SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Reception
When: Wednesday, November 3, 5:15 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Location: Westgate Paradise Event Center

Join HRIA for an evening of celebration and networking. Highly anticipated among Showgoers in the hot-rod market, this event brings together colleagues, leaders and builders to celebrate their passion for the hot-rod customization hobby. An awards ceremony will also take place to announce and honor the 2021 Industry Recognition Award winner, Company of the Year, and HRIA Hall of Fame Inductee(s).

SEMA Education: Hot Rod Builders Drive the Vintage Segment, Powered by HRIA
When: Thursday, November 4, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, N258

No matter where you go, a hot rod is a rolling work of art that turns heads when seen or heard driving down the street or strip. Top builders in the hot-rod segment will gather on the SEMA stage to discuss what continues to drive the passion for these vehicles and why the future looks so bright. Add this session to your Show Planner when registering for the SEMA Show.

HRIA Booth and Feature Vehicles
When: Tuesday, November 2 – Friday, November 5
Location: LVCC Central Hall, Booth #23295

HRIA select committee members will be available to answer questions about the benefits of council membership throughout the week inside the HRIA booth. Shared with the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO), the booth will also showcase three HRIA feature vehicles, with additional HRIA feature vehicles displayed outdoors under the portico along the north hall lobby area.  

Battle of the Builders Competition—Featuring Young Guns Corral
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, North Hall

The competition shines a spotlight on the amazing talents and craftsmanship of builders. This year, the competition will an receive an expanded presence, with a special area dedicated to interviews and vehicle reveals, including cars by past contestants and winners. Showgoers will also be able to see the final 2021 judging as it progresses all day Friday.

To learn more about the 2021 SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com or subscribe to SEMA eNews.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

P&E Distributors Inc. Hires Don Dolan as Vice President of Sales

P&E Distributors Inc. has announced the hiring of Don Dolan as its new vice president of sales, responsible for managing overall sales functions, including wholesale B2B, retail B2C marketplace platforms and its Tennessee Speed Sport retail store. Before joining P&E, Dolan has spent his career in sales and marketing, most recently with Driver Industrial and the Covert Track Group, where he was responsible for developing and implementing all sales and marketing in domestic and international channels. 

LSI Chemical Signs Agreement with Saudi Arabian Distributor

LSI Chemical, the international division of Lubrication Specialties Inc., has announced a new distributorship agreement with Diamond Island Contracting Co. located in the Makkah Province of Saudi Arabia. The company will immediately have the right to market and distribute LSI Chemical fuel and oil additives developed for downstream refinery operations with a goal of improving the quality of petrol and diesel, including biodiesel fuels, sold in the Middle East. Additionally, Diamond Island Contracting will also distribute Hot Shot’s Secret performance lubricant products for the retail automotive aftermarket.

PFC Brakes Launches New Website

PFC Brakes has once again teamed up with web development firm CC Communications to completely reimagine, redesign and launch the all-new pfcbrakes.com. The new PFC Brakes site is designed to enable users to find products quickly and efficiently by market segment on any device. A re-tooled Serve Duty parts finder, a new dealer locator and a mobile first design are just a few of the new features that complement the new design. The new www.pfcbrakes.com will be updated on a regular basis, making it a one-stop shop for all PFC brakes content, product information and news. The new website officially launched August 28.

Kinderhook Sells ProCare Collision to Classic Collision

Kinderhook Industries LLC announced the sale of ProCare Collision to Classic Collision. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. ProCare is a nationally recognized, state-of-the-art collision repair company that operates 45 auto body repair shops in the greater Austin, San Antonio, and Houston, Texas markets. Procare's commitment to provide exceptional quality collision repair and community involvement has cultivated a large base of loyal customers. Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to ProCare and Henson & Efron, P.A. provided legal counsel to Classic in the transaction.

VP Racing Fuels Inc. Expands With Behrent's Performance Warehouse

VP Racing Fuels Inc. announced the expansion of the company's product line with Behrent's Performance Warehouse in Florida, New York. Behrent’s expanded selection of VP products now includes several grades of VP motor oils and other lubricants. Racers and drivers can shop for these VP products at 38 Meadow Road Florida, NY 10921, or https://behrents.com/brand/vp-racing-fuel.asp

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.