Through the SEMA Show New Products Showcase, buyers can preview more than 2,000 of the industry's hottest and newest products all in one area.

By Jason Catullo

The deadline to submit an additional product for the SEMA Show New Products Showcase for the rate of $75 is tomorrow, October 11. As always, the first product entry submitted for the showcase is free, however, after the deadline, the fee for each additional product entry is $150. Exhibitors can place products in the New Products Showcase up until the opening day of the SEMA Show.

Register for the 2013 SEMA Show New Products Showcase online at www.SEMAShow.com/newproducts.

Recent SEMA Show survey data indicates that 87% of buyers consider new products their first mission when the Show opens. In addition, one of the first stops for buyers when they arrive is the New Products Showcase because they can preview more than 2,000 new products and technologies in one designated area.

The SEMA Show New Products Showcase also offers all exhibitors the opportunity to enter and display any product as a Featured Product within the showcase. Featured Products may be previously introduced products and do not need to qualify as "new." This collection of the industry's newest technologies and advancements combined with namesake products has helped the New Products Showcase position itself as a beacon of sorts for buyers looking for the latest innovations, updated versions of the industry's hot sellers and classic products that have defined a company's heritage.

Not only does the SEMA Show New Products Showcase help increase exhibitor product exposure during the Show, each product is photographed and the photos and product information are featured throughout the upcoming year in SEMA News. The trade magazine is distributed to 18,000 industry professionals monthly. In addition to SEMA News, the images and details of all products from the showcase are also made available to media throughout the world. An analysis of SEMA Show media coverage showed that exhibitors who participated in the 2012 New Products Showcase had higher levels of exposure in stories after the Show.

For 2013, SEMA has partnered with Autoweek magazine to further increase exposure for all products in the Showcase. All products will automatically be enrolled at no cost into Autoweek's exclusive SEMA Collection digital marketplace, where the products will be promoted to enthusiasts throughout the year. To learn more about Autoweek's exclusive SEMA Collection digital marketplace, visit sema-collection.autoweek.com/register.

More information on the 2013 SEMA Show is available online at www.SEMAShow.com.

Through the SEMA Show New Products Showcase, buyers can preview more than 2,000 of the industry's hottest and newest products all in one area.

By Jason Catullo

The deadline to submit an additional product for the SEMA Show New Products Showcase for the rate of $75 is tomorrow, October 11. As always, the first product entry submitted for the showcase is free, however, after the deadline, the fee for each additional product entry is $150. Exhibitors can place products in the New Products Showcase up until the opening day of the SEMA Show.

Register for the 2013 SEMA Show New Products Showcase online at www.SEMAShow.com/newproducts.

Recent SEMA Show survey data indicates that 87% of buyers consider new products their first mission when the Show opens. In addition, one of the first stops for buyers when they arrive is the New Products Showcase because they can preview more than 2,000 new products and technologies in one designated area.

The SEMA Show New Products Showcase also offers all exhibitors the opportunity to enter and display any product as a Featured Product within the showcase. Featured Products may be previously introduced products and do not need to qualify as "new." This collection of the industry's newest technologies and advancements combined with namesake products has helped the New Products Showcase position itself as a beacon of sorts for buyers looking for the latest innovations, updated versions of the industry's hot sellers and classic products that have defined a company's heritage.

Not only does the SEMA Show New Products Showcase help increase exhibitor product exposure during the Show, each product is photographed and the photos and product information are featured throughout the upcoming year in SEMA News. The trade magazine is distributed to 18,000 industry professionals monthly. In addition to SEMA News, the images and details of all products from the showcase are also made available to media throughout the world. An analysis of SEMA Show media coverage showed that exhibitors who participated in the 2012 New Products Showcase had higher levels of exposure in stories after the Show.

For 2013, SEMA has partnered with Autoweek magazine to further increase exposure for all products in the Showcase. All products will automatically be enrolled at no cost into Autoweek's exclusive SEMA Collection digital marketplace, where the products will be promoted to enthusiasts throughout the year. To learn more about Autoweek's exclusive SEMA Collection digital marketplace, visit sema-collection.autoweek.com/register.

More information on the 2013 SEMA Show is available online at www.SEMAShow.com.

Through the SEMA Show New Products Showcase, buyers can preview more than 2,000 of the industry's hottest and newest products all in one area.

By Jason Catullo

The deadline to submit an additional product for the SEMA Show New Products Showcase for the rate of $75 is tomorrow, October 11. As always, the first product entry submitted for the showcase is free, however, after the deadline, the fee for each additional product entry is $150. Exhibitors can place products in the New Products Showcase up until the opening day of the SEMA Show.

Register for the 2013 SEMA Show New Products Showcase online at www.SEMAShow.com/newproducts.

Recent SEMA Show survey data indicates that 87% of buyers consider new products their first mission when the Show opens. In addition, one of the first stops for buyers when they arrive is the New Products Showcase because they can preview more than 2,000 new products and technologies in one designated area.

The SEMA Show New Products Showcase also offers all exhibitors the opportunity to enter and display any product as a Featured Product within the showcase. Featured Products may be previously introduced products and do not need to qualify as "new." This collection of the industry's newest technologies and advancements combined with namesake products has helped the New Products Showcase position itself as a beacon of sorts for buyers looking for the latest innovations, updated versions of the industry's hot sellers and classic products that have defined a company's heritage.

Not only does the SEMA Show New Products Showcase help increase exhibitor product exposure during the Show, each product is photographed and the photos and product information are featured throughout the upcoming year in SEMA News. The trade magazine is distributed to 18,000 industry professionals monthly. In addition to SEMA News, the images and details of all products from the showcase are also made available to media throughout the world. An analysis of SEMA Show media coverage showed that exhibitors who participated in the 2012 New Products Showcase had higher levels of exposure in stories after the Show.

For 2013, SEMA has partnered with Autoweek magazine to further increase exposure for all products in the Showcase. All products will automatically be enrolled at no cost into Autoweek's exclusive SEMA Collection digital marketplace, where the products will be promoted to enthusiasts throughout the year. To learn more about Autoweek's exclusive SEMA Collection digital marketplace, visit sema-collection.autoweek.com/register.

More information on the 2013 SEMA Show is available online at www.SEMAShow.com.

The shooters at KGP Photography have some new shots of an updated ’15 Ford Expedition EL prototype running on the streets of Dearborn.

These new prototypes have hit public roads just as GM's fullsize SUVs have gone—or about are about to go—fully official. While GM's new fullsize SUVs are based on the recently overhauled Silverado and Sierra pickups, the platform changes to the Navigator and its Ford Expedition platform-mate are rumored to be less extensive. How much of the all-new F-150 will find its way into Ford's big SUVs is unclear, but it appears that Ford Motor Co. is keeping investment levels lower on their big 'utes, compared to GM's new Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban models.

On the Navigator prototypes, Lincoln will incorporate a version of the new corporate split grille, building on the look started with the Lincoln MKS and the upcoming MKC entry-level crossover. It appears that everything in front of the A-pillar will receive a redesign, while the Navigator's midsection seems to carry over the existing styling (except for reworked lower trim from the mid-door, down). More changes appear to be in store for the rear, between the C- and D-pillars, with restyled taillights. The interior is also heavily camouflaged, so a new dashboard design integrating Lincoln's latest electronics is almost certainly in store.

Sources say that the Navigator and Expedition will get an Ecoboost engine to help modernize the drivetrain and aid in achieving better fuel economy.

There had been reports suggesting that Ford might drop the big-daddy Expedition EL when the ’15 update hits the market, but the prototype captured here seems to contradict those reports. The appearance of these updated Expedition EL and Navigator L prototypes suggest that the Suburban and Yukon XL models will continue to have a cross-town rival.

Rumor is that Lincoln could rename the big SUV as the Lincoln MKN, but these prototypes seem to dispel those rumors. One of the prototypes actually still had a piece of paper taped to the door announcing it as the "Navigator," and the taped-over badging also seems to be of Navigator-length.

The revamped Navigator is expected to arrive late next year, as a ’15 model. Whether the changes will be enough to be market-relevant is a big question, especially given GM's head start with a slew of new entries on the horizon.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

The shooters at KGP Photography have some new shots of an updated ’15 Ford Expedition EL prototype running on the streets of Dearborn.

These new prototypes have hit public roads just as GM's fullsize SUVs have gone—or about are about to go—fully official. While GM's new fullsize SUVs are based on the recently overhauled Silverado and Sierra pickups, the platform changes to the Navigator and its Ford Expedition platform-mate are rumored to be less extensive. How much of the all-new F-150 will find its way into Ford's big SUVs is unclear, but it appears that Ford Motor Co. is keeping investment levels lower on their big 'utes, compared to GM's new Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban models.

On the Navigator prototypes, Lincoln will incorporate a version of the new corporate split grille, building on the look started with the Lincoln MKS and the upcoming MKC entry-level crossover. It appears that everything in front of the A-pillar will receive a redesign, while the Navigator's midsection seems to carry over the existing styling (except for reworked lower trim from the mid-door, down). More changes appear to be in store for the rear, between the C- and D-pillars, with restyled taillights. The interior is also heavily camouflaged, so a new dashboard design integrating Lincoln's latest electronics is almost certainly in store.

Sources say that the Navigator and Expedition will get an Ecoboost engine to help modernize the drivetrain and aid in achieving better fuel economy.

There had been reports suggesting that Ford might drop the big-daddy Expedition EL when the ’15 update hits the market, but the prototype captured here seems to contradict those reports. The appearance of these updated Expedition EL and Navigator L prototypes suggest that the Suburban and Yukon XL models will continue to have a cross-town rival.

Rumor is that Lincoln could rename the big SUV as the Lincoln MKN, but these prototypes seem to dispel those rumors. One of the prototypes actually still had a piece of paper taped to the door announcing it as the "Navigator," and the taped-over badging also seems to be of Navigator-length.

The revamped Navigator is expected to arrive late next year, as a ’15 model. Whether the changes will be enough to be market-relevant is a big question, especially given GM's head start with a slew of new entries on the horizon.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

The shooters at KGP Photography have some new shots of an updated ’15 Ford Expedition EL prototype running on the streets of Dearborn.

These new prototypes have hit public roads just as GM's fullsize SUVs have gone—or about are about to go—fully official. While GM's new fullsize SUVs are based on the recently overhauled Silverado and Sierra pickups, the platform changes to the Navigator and its Ford Expedition platform-mate are rumored to be less extensive. How much of the all-new F-150 will find its way into Ford's big SUVs is unclear, but it appears that Ford Motor Co. is keeping investment levels lower on their big 'utes, compared to GM's new Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban models.

On the Navigator prototypes, Lincoln will incorporate a version of the new corporate split grille, building on the look started with the Lincoln MKS and the upcoming MKC entry-level crossover. It appears that everything in front of the A-pillar will receive a redesign, while the Navigator's midsection seems to carry over the existing styling (except for reworked lower trim from the mid-door, down). More changes appear to be in store for the rear, between the C- and D-pillars, with restyled taillights. The interior is also heavily camouflaged, so a new dashboard design integrating Lincoln's latest electronics is almost certainly in store.

Sources say that the Navigator and Expedition will get an Ecoboost engine to help modernize the drivetrain and aid in achieving better fuel economy.

There had been reports suggesting that Ford might drop the big-daddy Expedition EL when the ’15 update hits the market, but the prototype captured here seems to contradict those reports. The appearance of these updated Expedition EL and Navigator L prototypes suggest that the Suburban and Yukon XL models will continue to have a cross-town rival.

Rumor is that Lincoln could rename the big SUV as the Lincoln MKN, but these prototypes seem to dispel those rumors. One of the prototypes actually still had a piece of paper taped to the door announcing it as the "Navigator," and the taped-over badging also seems to be of Navigator-length.

The revamped Navigator is expected to arrive late next year, as a ’15 model. Whether the changes will be enough to be market-relevant is a big question, especially given GM's head start with a slew of new entries on the horizon.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

	The purpose of the SEMA Garage is to assist members with product development by providing a resource containing tools and hosting events designed to reduce the time needed to go from prototype to final product.

One of the newest benefits available to SEMA manufacturing members is the SEMA Garage-Industry Innovations Center located adjacent to the SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. The garage is designed as a resource to help members shorten the process of getting products from the drawing board to store shelves.

As a member resource, one of the functions of the SEMA Garage is to serve as the main location for most of SEMA's Measuring Sessions—a SEMA and OEM partnership that provides members with access to upcoming vehicles, most often, before they hit dealerships. Members take their turns scanning, examining and measuring the vehicles for accurate, hands-on specs used to begin prototyping. In the past, Measuring Sessions required manufacturers to travel to various locations, typically within a two-day timeframe, and carry the gear needed to record accurate vehicle data.

With the SEMA Garage, vehicles can stay in one location for a longer period of time, stretching the time-constrained measuring sessions from days to weeks, in most cases. Not only are vehicles available to members longer, the new suite of tools, work benches and scanners will also help alleviate the need for members to transport a large amount of equipment.

To date, the value of the tools and equipment included in the garage is nearly $2 million. One of latest items added to the SEMA Garage is a Faro arm, also called a coordinate-measuring machine, along with some PolyWorks software. The newly added device can be used to scan complete vehicles and individual parts.

The SEMA Garage is stocked with a host of tools and equipment to help members obtain vehicle specs and data, eliminating the need for members to transport extra gear.

As an example of some of the measuring sessions and special events that have taken place at the SEMA Garage include the first-ever Mega Measuring Session in July, which featured five popular vehicles for members to preview—the Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota Tundra, Ford Focus ST, Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger ST.

	The SEMA Garage recently hosted a Honda Measuring Session that featured, for the first time ever, three motorcycles and an ATV.

The facility was also recently the home to another first—the Honda/Acura Measuring Session featuring ’14 versions of the Honda Grom, CTX700 and Goldwing F6B motorcycles, the Pioneer SXS all-terrain vehicle and Odyssey minivan. The ’14 Acura MDX midsize SUV and RLX mid-luxury sedan were also available for members to explore.

The SEMA Garage is also serving as the installation hub for the exclusive WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose Ford F-150. All work for the build program will be done at the SEMA Garage. Foose Design and WD-40 Co.—through a partnership with the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts—will have leading SEMA manufacturers working alongside underprivileged teens and young adults to complete the truck to auction off for the benefit of SEMA Cares charities.

SEMA members are encouraged to take advantage of this industry-owned facility for product development, fitment, research and much more. For more information about the SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center, including upcoming events and availability, contact Mike Spagnola at mikes@sema.org. 

	The purpose of the SEMA Garage is to assist members with product development by providing a resource containing tools and hosting events designed to reduce the time needed to go from prototype to final product.

One of the newest benefits available to SEMA manufacturing members is the SEMA Garage-Industry Innovations Center located adjacent to the SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. The garage is designed as a resource to help members shorten the process of getting products from the drawing board to store shelves.

As a member resource, one of the functions of the SEMA Garage is to serve as the main location for most of SEMA's Measuring Sessions—a SEMA and OEM partnership that provides members with access to upcoming vehicles, most often, before they hit dealerships. Members take their turns scanning, examining and measuring the vehicles for accurate, hands-on specs used to begin prototyping. In the past, Measuring Sessions required manufacturers to travel to various locations, typically within a two-day timeframe, and carry the gear needed to record accurate vehicle data.

With the SEMA Garage, vehicles can stay in one location for a longer period of time, stretching the time-constrained measuring sessions from days to weeks, in most cases. Not only are vehicles available to members longer, the new suite of tools, work benches and scanners will also help alleviate the need for members to transport a large amount of equipment.

To date, the value of the tools and equipment included in the garage is nearly $2 million. One of latest items added to the SEMA Garage is a Faro arm, also called a coordinate-measuring machine, along with some PolyWorks software. The newly added device can be used to scan complete vehicles and individual parts.

The SEMA Garage is stocked with a host of tools and equipment to help members obtain vehicle specs and data, eliminating the need for members to transport extra gear.

As an example of some of the measuring sessions and special events that have taken place at the SEMA Garage include the first-ever Mega Measuring Session in July, which featured five popular vehicles for members to preview—the Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota Tundra, Ford Focus ST, Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger ST.

	The SEMA Garage recently hosted a Honda Measuring Session that featured, for the first time ever, three motorcycles and an ATV.

The facility was also recently the home to another first—the Honda/Acura Measuring Session featuring ’14 versions of the Honda Grom, CTX700 and Goldwing F6B motorcycles, the Pioneer SXS all-terrain vehicle and Odyssey minivan. The ’14 Acura MDX midsize SUV and RLX mid-luxury sedan were also available for members to explore.

The SEMA Garage is also serving as the installation hub for the exclusive WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose Ford F-150. All work for the build program will be done at the SEMA Garage. Foose Design and WD-40 Co.—through a partnership with the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts—will have leading SEMA manufacturers working alongside underprivileged teens and young adults to complete the truck to auction off for the benefit of SEMA Cares charities.

SEMA members are encouraged to take advantage of this industry-owned facility for product development, fitment, research and much more. For more information about the SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center, including upcoming events and availability, contact Mike Spagnola at mikes@sema.org. 

By Chad Simon

		Having been named SEMA's 2011 Person of the Year, John Menzler was highly regarded in the automotive aftermarket industry.

John Menzler passed away October 3, 2013, after battling cancer.

“John was the SEMA Person of the Year two years ago because he cared so much about the industry and channeled that into action that made a positive difference,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA's president and CEO. “He was a spirited, funny and an enormously dedicated guy who will be deeply missed.”

In addition to being honored as SEMA's 2011 Person of the Year, Menzler, of the COMP Performance Group, was a longtime SEMA member as well as a Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Select Committee member and mentor to many in the industry.

“Being named SEMA Person of the Year is the highlight of my automotive career; it still hasn’t sunk in yet,” Menzler said upon receiving the award. “Nobody sets out to become Person of the Year, and you don’t do it for the accolades; you do it to help the industry. It’s all about giving back. I’ve been involved in the councils for 20 years; it’s the backbone of what SEMA is about. I always say that SEMA is the greatest organization in the world, and they also put on a Show.”

Having been involved in the automotive aftermarket for several decades, Menzler was the winner of the Mentor of the Year award in 2010. He also served on the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Select Committee from the council’s inception in 1995 until June 2010. He chaired the council from 2004–2006 and, when his tenure as immediate past chair/advisor was over in 2006, he immediately ran and was re-elected to the Select Committee. He is the only recipient of the MPMC Industry Recognition Award, presented to him in 2000, and he was inducted into the MPMC Hall of Fame in 2010. Menzler also owns a SEMA-member company called Inventive Marketing/MotoFeet.

Services for Menzler will be held Friday, October 18, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. at Greenwood Memory Lawn, Serenity Chapel (719 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85009). A remembrance of Menzler's life will follow at his home after the services.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Menzler's name to the SEMA Scholarship Fund or Victory Junction.