Thu, 03/05/2015 - 13:32
By Amanda Gubbins

  councils
Select Committee nominations for SEMA's councils and networks are now being accepted.
  
Nominations are now being accepted for Select Committee positions on SEMA’s councils and networks.

Are you facing a business challenge that is bigger than your own company? See an opportunity for change and growth in the market? Have an idea but need some industry muscle to make it happen? If so, it may be time for you to volunteer and make your voice heard.

The elected Select Committee of each council and network serves as the volunteer leadership for the group. Because these elected volunteers are in tune with their market and have the drive needed to influence change, they are entrusted to direct SEMA resources toward building solutions, benefits and opportunities that help companies succeed and prosper. Currently, there are 10 council and network groups within SEMA. Councils work to identify related business goals, issues and challenges for member companies in a particular market segment, while the professional networks are a platform for individuals within a company who share a common interest or characteristic.

Nominate yourself or another exceptional SEMA-member employee today by using the quick and easy online councils nomination form. All nominations must be received by 5:00 p.m. (PDT) on March 20, 2015. The Select Committee elections will take place in May.

For more information about SEMA's councils and networks or the nomination and election process, contact Lindsay Bianco.
Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:49
 mercedes

The shooters at KGP Photography caught some prototypes for the new Mercedes GLC crossover essentially undisguised as they left the factory. It's the first time the replacement for the outgoing GLK has been caught without its heavier camouflage kit. About 95% of the production bits are now visible, as are the design changes that have been applied to coincide with its new name—thanks to Mercedes' new naming conventions.

KGP also got a revealing shot of a GLC's interior, fully revealing the prototype's center stack and LCD screen.

 mercedes

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:49
 mercedes

The shooters at KGP Photography caught some prototypes for the new Mercedes GLC crossover essentially undisguised as they left the factory. It's the first time the replacement for the outgoing GLK has been caught without its heavier camouflage kit. About 95% of the production bits are now visible, as are the design changes that have been applied to coincide with its new name—thanks to Mercedes' new naming conventions.

KGP also got a revealing shot of a GLC's interior, fully revealing the prototype's center stack and LCD screen.

 mercedes

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:49
 mercedes

The shooters at KGP Photography caught some prototypes for the new Mercedes GLC crossover essentially undisguised as they left the factory. It's the first time the replacement for the outgoing GLK has been caught without its heavier camouflage kit. About 95% of the production bits are now visible, as are the design changes that have been applied to coincide with its new name—thanks to Mercedes' new naming conventions.

KGP also got a revealing shot of a GLC's interior, fully revealing the prototype's center stack and LCD screen.

 mercedes

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:47

By SEMA Editors

  silverado
The Silverado HD is one of six vehicles available under Chevrolet's SEMA Show project vehicle program.
  

The Chevrolet SEMA Vehicle Program for 2015 will focus on designers and manufacturers dedicated to creating new and exciting vehicle designs, incorporating new accessories and vehicle personalization items for new Chevrolet vehicles.

Vehicles available:

  • Colorado
  • Tahoe
  • Traverse
  • Equinox
  • Trax
  • Silverado HD (non dually)

Requirements:

  • Preservation of Chevrolet bowtie on front and rear of vehicle, not to be painted.
  • High level of paint and build quality; no wraps.
  • Sponsorship decals to be limited to the lower 1/3 of the vehicle side.
  • Commit to periodic design and build check-ins.
  • Promote vehicle through November 2, 2016.
  • Retain vehicle insurance totaling at least $3 million until the completion of the one-year contract.
  • Current SEMA member.
  • Submit proposal by April 17, 2015.

Proposals must include:

  • An introductory letter defining the vehicle theme, content and 2015 SEMA Show display location.
  • A realistic exterior rendering with the intended colors and modifications accurately defined.
  • A build timeline with start and completion dates.
  • A detailed list of upgrades and modifications, including new products developed with the use of the vehicle.
  • A promotional plan beyond the 2015 SEMA Show.
  • Three printed copies mailed to the address listed below.
  • An additional digital copy sent to the e-mail below.

Builders are urged to contact Tom Gardner at thomas.gardner@gm.com before submitting a formal proposal to discuss the vehicle theme and modifications.

Send proposals to:

Tom Gardner
Mail Code: 480-717-004
GM Technical Center – AEC Building
30003 Van Dyke Ave.
Office 168-04
Warren, MI 48090-9060

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:47

By SEMA Editors

  silverado
The Silverado HD is one of six vehicles available under Chevrolet's SEMA Show project vehicle program.
  

The Chevrolet SEMA Vehicle Program for 2015 will focus on designers and manufacturers dedicated to creating new and exciting vehicle designs, incorporating new accessories and vehicle personalization items for new Chevrolet vehicles.

Vehicles available:

  • Colorado
  • Tahoe
  • Traverse
  • Equinox
  • Trax
  • Silverado HD (non dually)

Requirements:

  • Preservation of Chevrolet bowtie on front and rear of vehicle, not to be painted.
  • High level of paint and build quality; no wraps.
  • Sponsorship decals to be limited to the lower 1/3 of the vehicle side.
  • Commit to periodic design and build check-ins.
  • Promote vehicle through November 2, 2016.
  • Retain vehicle insurance totaling at least $3 million until the completion of the one-year contract.
  • Current SEMA member.
  • Submit proposal by April 17, 2015.

Proposals must include:

  • An introductory letter defining the vehicle theme, content and 2015 SEMA Show display location.
  • A realistic exterior rendering with the intended colors and modifications accurately defined.
  • A build timeline with start and completion dates.
  • A detailed list of upgrades and modifications, including new products developed with the use of the vehicle.
  • A promotional plan beyond the 2015 SEMA Show.
  • Three printed copies mailed to the address listed below.
  • An additional digital copy sent to the e-mail below.

Builders are urged to contact Tom Gardner at thomas.gardner@gm.com before submitting a formal proposal to discuss the vehicle theme and modifications.

Send proposals to:

Tom Gardner
Mail Code: 480-717-004
GM Technical Center – AEC Building
30003 Van Dyke Ave.
Office 168-04
Warren, MI 48090-9060

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:26
By Linda Spencer

  ford
SEMA members measure the ’13 Ford Ranger T6 before its exportation in November.
  
SEMA is continuing its tour of four accessory-friendly international vehicles courtesy of the SEMA Garage, the SEMA International Department, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Roush and Hypertech. The tour is designed to provide members with the opportunity to create export-ready products through access to vehicles not sold in the United States.

Tour Schedule:
  • April 7–8 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Roush, 39555 Schoolcraft Rd., Plymouth, MI 48170
  • April 21–22 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Hypertech, 3215 Appling Rd., Bartlett, TN
  • May 18–May 22 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): SEMA Garage, 1577 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Vehicles Available:
  • ’12 Toyota HiLux
  • ’13 Ford Ranger T6
  • ’14 UAZ Hunter
  • ’14 Mitsubishi L200

Read more about SEMA's International Vehicle Measuring Program in the December 2014 issue of SEMA News.

The Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger T6, and the newest editions—the Mitsubishi L200 and UAZ Hunter—were imported into the United States under a temporary waiver to provide access to SEMA-member manufacturers to vehicles popularly accessorized overseas but not sold in the United States. The HiLux will be exported in June and the Ranger in November to comply with federal laws.

Limited slots are available. Register now for the last chance to measure the HiLux and Ranger before they leave the United States.

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:26
By Linda Spencer

  ford
SEMA members measure the ’13 Ford Ranger T6 before its exportation in November.
  
SEMA is continuing its tour of four accessory-friendly international vehicles courtesy of the SEMA Garage, the SEMA International Department, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Roush and Hypertech. The tour is designed to provide members with the opportunity to create export-ready products through access to vehicles not sold in the United States.

Tour Schedule:
  • April 7–8 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Roush, 39555 Schoolcraft Rd., Plymouth, MI 48170
  • April 21–22 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Hypertech, 3215 Appling Rd., Bartlett, TN
  • May 18–May 22 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): SEMA Garage, 1577 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Vehicles Available:
  • ’12 Toyota HiLux
  • ’13 Ford Ranger T6
  • ’14 UAZ Hunter
  • ’14 Mitsubishi L200

Read more about SEMA's International Vehicle Measuring Program in the December 2014 issue of SEMA News.

The Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger T6, and the newest editions—the Mitsubishi L200 and UAZ Hunter—were imported into the United States under a temporary waiver to provide access to SEMA-member manufacturers to vehicles popularly accessorized overseas but not sold in the United States. The HiLux will be exported in June and the Ranger in November to comply with federal laws.

Limited slots are available. Register now for the last chance to measure the HiLux and Ranger before they leave the United States.

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:26
By Linda Spencer

  ford
SEMA members measure the ’13 Ford Ranger T6 before its exportation in November.
  
SEMA is continuing its tour of four accessory-friendly international vehicles courtesy of the SEMA Garage, the SEMA International Department, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Roush and Hypertech. The tour is designed to provide members with the opportunity to create export-ready products through access to vehicles not sold in the United States.

Tour Schedule:
  • April 7–8 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Roush, 39555 Schoolcraft Rd., Plymouth, MI 48170
  • April 21–22 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Hypertech, 3215 Appling Rd., Bartlett, TN
  • May 18–May 22 (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): SEMA Garage, 1577 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Vehicles Available:
  • ’12 Toyota HiLux
  • ’13 Ford Ranger T6
  • ’14 UAZ Hunter
  • ’14 Mitsubishi L200

Read more about SEMA's International Vehicle Measuring Program in the December 2014 issue of SEMA News.

The Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger T6, and the newest editions—the Mitsubishi L200 and UAZ Hunter—were imported into the United States under a temporary waiver to provide access to SEMA-member manufacturers to vehicles popularly accessorized overseas but not sold in the United States. The HiLux will be exported in June and the Ranger in November to comply with federal laws.

Limited slots are available. Register now for the last chance to measure the HiLux and Ranger before they leave the United States.

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 11:26
By Linda Spencer

  russia
The Russia Business Development Tour is for those companies interested in developing brand recognition, product loyalty and working toward mid- and longer-term goals.
  
March 16 is the last day to register for the 2015 SEMA Russia Business Development Tour, to be held in Moscow, May 17–20, 2015. SEMA is organizing a small delegation to meet with buyers from throughout Russia. The trip is for those companies interested in developing brand recognition, product loyalty and working toward mid- and longer-term goals.

Immediate business gains are more difficult given the current Russian economic downturn and the strong dollar (vis-à-vis the ruble). Consider whether now is the right time for you to meet with key buyers and begin your entry or expansion into this market, which includes a large number of U.S.-made vehicles, and at some point in the next five years is expected to become Europe’s largest passenger-vehicle market.

Interesting facts about the Russian automotive market:
  • About 48,000 U.S.-made vehicles were imported into Russia in 2013, according to a U.S. Department of Commerce report. In addition to U.S.-made vehicles exported to Russia, Ford’s 50–50 joint venture in 2013 produced the millionth Russian-built Ford-badged vehicle. In addition, Russia is GM’s fifth-largest market for its Chevrolet brand. GM sold 174,649 vehicles in Russia overall. Popularly customized vehicles, such as the Jeep Wrangler, are now officially sold in Russia.
  • Russia is the world’s sixth-largest automotive market in terms of annual passenger-vehicle sales and is the second largest in Europe after Germany. Before the economic and political crisis hit, industry experts predicted that Russia would soon become the No. 1 market. Though still expected, the date for this change in positions has been delayed by several years at least as car sales are down sharply amid the uncertainty and fiscal crisis.
  • Last year’s event attracted buyers from throughout Russia. Many of these buyers traveled to the 2014 SEMA Show and participated in the U.S.–Russia roundtable.

Events schedule (tentative):

Sunday, May 17

United States government briefing and networking dinner with a select group of buyers.

Monday, May 18

Visit specialty-equipment shops.

Tuesday, May 19

Roundtable discussion with buyers and a chance for private one-on-one meetings with pre-vetted buyers.

Wednesday, May 20

Depart for the United States.

For more information regarding the SEMA Russia Business Development Tour, visit www.sema.org/russia. To register, visit the Exhibitor Registration page.

Explore new sales opportunities in Moscow!

View the 2014 SEMA Russia Post trip report
.