SEMA eNews highlights new products from industry companies when available. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

Oracle Lighting
Oculus Bi-LED Projector Headlights ’21+ Ford Bronco

Available in November 2022 and compatible with both standard and signature Bronco lighting models, the new headlights feature a unique modular design, plug-and-play installation, and advanced LED projection for enhanced driver visibility in all weather conditions. Oracle will feature the product at 2022 SEMA Show in booth #20137.

www.oraclelights.com

Milwaukee
M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger

The new M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger can charge two batteries simultaneously at a rapid charge rate. Users can charge one battery at a time on each side of the charger, with charging then automatically moving sequentially to the next available battery as charging progresses. The increased charge speed reduces downtime spent waiting for batteries to charge, delivering more productivity with every charge. Full compatibility with the PACKOUT Modular Storage System provides an optimized solution for transporting and storing batteries on the jobsite. The USB-A port provides charging of personal devices such as phones, headlamps and flashlights.

www.milwaukeetool.com

Continental
OE Quality Oil, Fuel, Air and Cabin Filters

Continental premium oil filters are manufactured using the most advanced technologies and innovative filter media available to ensure the best engine performance and minimum fuel consumption. This is especially important as the industry’s use of new “long-life” oils and longer service intervals continues to increase. The filters are offered in spin-on and immersion designs.

www.continentalaftermarket.com

Falken Tires
AZENIS FK460

Falken Tires has introduced the all-new AZENIS FK460, the latest ultra-high performance all-season tire. The FK460 pairs the versatility customers demand from a tire they can run year-round with the excitement expected from Falken’s popular performance line.

The tire’s intricate tread pattern features emerging grooves and interlocking sipes which ensure that the FK460 will deliver more poise and stability in inclement conditions while also reducing air channeling noise, providing a quiet ride.

www.falkentire.com

ACES EFI
Killshot TBI EFI System

The Killshot is designed for performance automotive applications up to 650 hp and can easily be installed with no special tools or advanced tuning required. The system runs on ACES’ 32-Bit Power Architecture. This technology allows the ECU to monitor engine parameters in real time and make calibration changes faster than any other system available. The throttle body fits any 4150-intake flange, features four integrated 100 lb/hr fuel injectors, MAP Sensor, and IAT sensor. ACES designed the Killshot with the ECU separate from the throttle body. This prevents damage from unwanted engine vibration and heat, giving you increased reliability.

www.acesefi.com

KBS
Fusion FPP Flexible Plastics Primer

KBS Coatings offers KBS Fusion FPP - Flexible Plastics Primer (FPP) for promoting a tight bond between difficult to paint flexible surfaces and most varieties of top coats. The aerosol primer is ideal for plastics, urethanes, fiberglass and carbon fiber. KBS Fusion FPP coats fast and easy to provide a strong yet flexible base coat that moves with the surface without flaking, peeling or cracking.

The gray primer has a fast dry time and allows film thickness to be built quickly. A single light coat is usually all that is required. However, additional coats can be applied as needed to fill in small surface imperfections. KBS Fusion FPP can be block sanded after 30 minutes dry time and top coated after one hour.

www.kbs-coatings.com

Consistently voted as the No. 1 destination by SEMA Show buyers and media, the 2022 New Products Showcase will expand to include two new product categories. Showgoers will find products related to electric vehicles (EV) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), along with products in 16 other categories, in what is the world’s largest display of new automotive aftermarket products.

Accessible exclusively to SEMA Showgoers, November 1–4, the New Products Showcase is the automotive aftermarket industry’s most comprehensive collection of new and trending products. SEMA Show attendees visit the area to discover and see parts and accessories before they hit the market. A Featured Products component includes items that may not qualify as new; the product may have been on the market for more than a year but is among an exhibitor’s top products.

“Through the SEMA Show New Products Showcase, buyers, retailers and distributors can easily discover and learn about all the hot products that they may want to carry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “They will find details about the products, including the exhibitor’s booth number. They can then connect directly with the manufacturer on the Show floor to learn more. It’s no surprise that SEMA Show buyers rely on the New Products Showcase to help them stock their shelves.”

Details on all the products from the Showcase are also included in the SEMA Show mobile app, giving attendees a year-round resource to help them after the Show. The mobile app’s product-scanning feature enables attendees to flag items of interest and create custom lists of noteworthy products. At the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, attendees will be able to connect with all product experts from exhibiting companies for quality one-on-one discussions, demos and presentations.

Participation in the New Products Showcase, available as a benefit to SEMA Show exhibitors, is easy and affordable. All exhibitors qualify to submit one product entry at no cost. Subsequent entries range from $75–$150 each, depending on the submission date, and there is no limit to the number of entries. New this year is an on-site freight-delivery service to make it easier than ever for exhibitors in West, North and Central Halls to participate.

Through the new service, exhibitors drop off their products at a nearby designated area in their respective hall, and then coordinate to meet the product at the New Products check-in area in South Hall.

Qualifying products may also be recognized as a Best New Product. Winners and runners-up in 18 categories—including the new EV and ADAS categories—will be announced and presented at the Kickoff Breakfast, Tuesday, November 1, just before the official opening of the SEMA Show. Additionally, all products in the Showcase are professionally photographed. The photos are often used by outside media and help brand awareness.

“Exhibitors that participate in the New Products Showcase report much higher success than those that do not participate,” said Gattuso. “Research tells us that exhibitors with products in the Showcase see more buyers in their booths and receive more media coverage than those that do not participate in the Showcase.”

A nearby transportation hub that includes taxi and shuttle drop-off, as well as an entry point for the Las Vegas Convention Center underground tunnel, makes it easy for attendees to visit the Showcase. More than 2,000 product entries are expected to be included in this year’s Showcase.

“You can have a 10x10-ft. booth and be up against booths that are 100 times bigger, but in the New Products Showcase, you’re the same size. If you come up with something great, it’s going to get noticed there.”

—Jim Flowers, president, Florida-based Bubba Rope

Exhibitors can enter the SEMA Show New Products Showcase by visiting www.semashow.com/new-products-rules. To register to attend the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com/register.

By Ashley Reyes

Despite being well accomplished, many high achievers often feel inadequate and doubt their own abilities. It’s difficult for them to accept their own accomplishments without feeling like a fraud. This psychological phenomenon is known as Imposter Syndrome, and it can take a toll on one’s emotional well-being.

SEMA members are invited to a live webinar on “How to Overcome and Maneuver Through Imposter Syndrome,” September 15, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).

Presented by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), attendees will hear from Executive Coach Julie Couret, and learn proven tactics for how to let go of perfectionism and be kind to oneself, tips for talking to a mentor and ways to track success.

Understanding what imposter syndrome is will allow you to focus on reality and help you avoid unnecessary feelings of guilt, as well as the need to overwork yourself and prove your accomplishments matter.

Participants will share their own experiences through a virtual breakout following the presentation.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

Recruiting, training and retaining employees is an ongoing challenge for many wheel and tire aftermarket companies.  

SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) members and those in the wheel and tire segment are invited to hear from three industry leaders as they talk about what they are doing to solve and prevent this issue during the live webinar “Staffing and Training for the Wheel and Tire Aftermarket,” September 15 at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).

Attendees will hear from Ted Schlaack, RimTyme; Gary Ruede, Discount Tire; and Kent Hobson, Sam’s Club, and walk away with strategies and trends for building a team, and real-life examples of what has and hasn’t worked for the panelists’ companies.  

Panelists will answer participant questions live.

Register here. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) is hosting its 2023 Media Trade Conference to help its members gain coverage in top trade publications, consumer outlets and social-media outlets. The event will take place Anaheim, California, at Embassy Suites Anaheim South, January 24–26, 2023, and offer manufacturers of racing and performance parts and accessories the chance to connect with journalists in up to 42 private, 30-minute meetings over a span of three days.  

MPMC-member companies meet with media outlets that are relevant to their products in up to 42 private, 30-minute meetings over a span of three days.

The event offers a “speed-dating” format, where MPMC-member companies meet with media outlets that are relevant to their products. Unlike a traditional trade show where exhibitors meet with buyers and resellers, the Media Trade Conference is focused on media, and results in manufacturers raising brand awareness in print and online publications, video/television, radio/podcasts and social-media outlets.  

Manufacturers can sign up to exhibit at www.sema.org/mtc or contact MPMC Director Marcy Yanus at marcy@sema.org with questions. 

By Ashley Reyes

Emissions compliance is a legal requirement that applies to almost all engine-related performance products. To help manufacturers understand how the emissions-compliance process works, if their products are subject to compliance and what the repercussions are to those who fail to obtain compliance, SEMA members are invited to a live webinar featuring Peter Treydte, director of emissions compliance at SEMA. Treydte will explain and answer questions about the emissions compliance process during the webinar “Guided Tour of the Emissions Testing Process,” September 27, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT).

Presented by the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN), attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of the kinds of products that are tested, what the test process is, the dynamics of the test and what preparation goes into the tests.

This webinar will include a Q&A with Treydte and tips on how to best prepare for a successful test result.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Show exhibitors still have time to sign up to host a table at the 2022 SEMA Show Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast, Thursday, November 3.  

As part of the SEMA Show Student Program, the Industry Networking Breakfast is a chance for exhibitors to create quality connections with the industry’s future workforce and help students explore career opportunities.  

As part of the SEMA Show Student Program, the Industry Networking Breakfast is a chance for exhibitors to create quality connections with the industry’s future workforce and help students explore career opportunities.  

“Exhibitors gain a lot from the networking aspect and play an important role in inspiring students to pursue their passions,” said SEMA Project Manager, Member Services, Byron Bergmann. “It’s also a great way to recruit new talent and create long-lasting relationships that can last beyond the Show week.”  

Participation, which is free to exhibiting companies, simply requires one-and-a-half hours from one company representative. No set-up time or marketing materials are required.

Click here to register your company.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a reminder that trailers are only permitted under U.S. law if they are certified as meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Non-compliant trailers pose safety risks, and those attempting to title or register a non-compliant trailer may face potential forfeiture. A compliant trailer will have a label indicating it meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. To view the NHTSA press release, click here.

The SEMA Action Network (SAN) recently released an updated guide to both federal and state regulations that govern trailers used for motorsports racing. It includes a 50-state guide to trailer dimensions and equipment requirements and an overview of federal guidelines for what constitutes commercial and noncommercial activities. To view the SAN motorsports trailer resource, click here.

For more information, contact Caroline Fletcher at carolinef@sema.org.

PRI Announces Promotion, Adds New Executive Assistant

Performance Racing Industry (PRI) has announced the promotion of Erika Stafford from executive assistant to trade show and events specialist. In her new position, Stafford will focus on supervising and coordinating events and activations for the PRI Trade Show in downtown Indianapolis—this year set for December 8–10 at the Indiana Convention Center. Happenings include the Grand Opening Breakfast, PRI Happy Hour, Exhibitor Reception, EV Performance Zone and the Content Creation Zone. She will also help manage special events at the PRI Membership HQ in Speedway near Indianapolis. Stafford previously served as the executive assistant to PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer since October 2021.

Prior to her time with PRI, Stafford spent time as a team coordinator for ERA Motorsport/IMSA, a driver assistant for CK Motorsports, an executive assistant for Harding Steinbrenner Racing, a Health and Physical Education teacher for Perry Township Schools, a customer service representative for Indianapolis Motor Speedway; and as a director of development for the Special Olympics.

As part of the announcement, Jillian Hoy has been named PRI’s new executive assistant. In her new role, Hoy will help Dr. Meyer oversee the PRI Trade Show, PRI Membership and PRI’s advocacy arm. Before joining PRI, Hoy held various positions in the racing industry, including as a senior account executive, a personal ticket consultant for NASCAR and an account executive for Phoenix Raceway. She also held positions with ClubCorp’s Skyline Club Indianapolis, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Tampa Bay Rowdies and more.

Bridgestone Aims to Commercialize Natural Rubber From Desert Shrubs by 2030

Bridgestone Americas has announced plans to establish commercial operations for planting and harvesting a woody desert shrub called guayule as a domestic source of natural rubber in America’s desert southwest. To date, Bridgestone has invested more than $100 million in guayule research as part of its effort to achieve carbon neutrality and 100% renewable tires by 2050.

As part of the new announcement, Bridgestone plans to invest an additional $42 million to establish commercial operations, with additional investment and expansion intended toward 2030. The company will also collaborate and partner with local farmers and Native American tribes to increase the capacity of up to 25,000 additional acres of farmland for planting and harvesting guayule at scale.

For more information, read the announcement here.

Honda Partners With LG to Build Battery Production Facility for EVs

LG Energy Solution (LGES) and Honda Motor Co. have announced an agreement to establish a joint venture company to produce lithium-ion batteries in the U.S. to power Honda and Acura EV models for the North American market. LGES and Honda will invest a total of $4.4 billion and establish a new JV plant, with a location set to be determined. The plant aims to have an annual production capacity of approximately 40GWh. Construction is expected to begin in early 2023 to enable mass production of advanced lithium-ion battery cells by the end of 2025.

Flying Lizard Motorsports Announces New HQ Set for Phoenix

Flying Lizard Motorsports—the sports car race team originally based in Sonoma, California—has announced plans to move its operations to a new 15,000-sq.-ft. building at Apex Motor Club in Phoenix. Currently under phase one of a two-phase program, Apex Motor Club is already a destination for privateer teams and public track day programs. The 2.27-mile circuit with a 3,400-ft. straightaway will eventually become a 4.20-mile, 22-turn, multiple-configuration circuit, sitting on Apex’s 280-acre property. Construction on the Flying Lizard Motorsports shop is set to be completed following the 2023 race season.

Kelford Cams Partners With MidwayPlus to Launch New B2B Online Storefront

Kelford Cams has announced its newly minted online B2B partnership with MidwayPlus.com. MidwayPlus is a software solution for aftermarket B2B businesses designed to empower manufacturers to efficiently sell products to aftermarket resellers within a secure transaction platform. 

Roadmaster Active Suspension Changes Name to RoadActive Suspension Inc.

Roadmaster Active Suspension (RAS), manufacturer and distributor of
aftermarket leaf spring upgrades for light-duty trucks, has changed its name to RoadActive Suspension (RAS). Roadmaster Active Suspension first entered the United States market in 1998 as founder Clive Schewitz sought a solution for light-duty pickup and van owners looking to reduce bounce and body roll.

Paul Lee Racing Adds Steven Cole to Team

Paul Lee Racing—the Orange, California-based race team headed by Paul Lee and Krista Baldwin—has announced industry executive Steven Cole will serve as the senior vice president of marketing and corporate partnerships and general manager.

Paul Lee Racing fields a nitro Funny Car driven by Lee, who is the CEO of Wharton Automotive Group, which includes McLeod Racing, FTI Performance and Silver Sport Transmissions (SST). The team also fields a McLeod Racing-sponsored Top Fuel car driven by Baldwin, Wharton’s creative director.

Cole has more than 25 years of experience in professional motorsports, including brand marketing plus B2B and B2C programs within NHRA, NASCAR and IndyCar. He also worked with high-profile race teams, including Stringer Performance, John Force Racing and more.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA News. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Anderson Gets Win No. 100; Capps, Brown and M. Smith All Get Victories at Dodge Power Brokers NHRA U.S. Nationals

Greg Anderson drove picked up his 100th career win with a run of 6.587 seconds at 208.07 mph in his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro to defeat Dallas Glenn in the finals.

Greg Anderson picked up his 100th career win last Monday and veteran Ron Capps won for the first time at the 68th annual Dodge Power Brokers NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. Antron Brown (Top Fuel) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also won at the 16th of 22 races during the 2022 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series season and the final event of the regular season.

Anderson drove to the milestone win with a run of 6.587 seconds at 208.07 mph in his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro to defeat Dallas Glenn in the finals, becoming just the second driver in NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series history to reach 100 career victories.

Capps, the defending Funny Car world champion, went 3.911 at 327.98 in his 11,000-hp NAPA Auto Parts GR Toyota Supra to defeat points leader Robert Hight in the final round.

Brown drove to his second win in the past three races, earning his first Indy victory since 2011 with a strong run of 3.706 at 321.66 in his 11,000-hp Matco Tools dragster to knock off points leader Brittany Force in the final round.

Defending world champ Smith went 6.872 at 195.99 on his Denso Auto Parts EBR in the final round, knocking off Karen Stoffer to claim his first Indy win since 2006.

The NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series returns to action with the Pep Boys NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway on September 15–18. It is the first event in the six-race Countdown to the Championship playoffs.

NHRA Announces Full 2023 Camping World Drag Racing Series Schedule

NHRA has announced the full 2023 Camping World Drag Racing Series schedule, which will include a pair of Pep Boys NHRA All-Star Call-out races in Gainesville, Florida, and Indianapolis, as well as a return to the fan-favorite Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois. To view the full schedule, click here. For more information or to renew or purchase tickets, visit nhra.com/schedule/2023.

For more racing news, visit Performance Racing Industry’s (PRI) website.