The following candidates are running for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:
Chair-Elect - One Open Seat
Myles Kovacs and Melanie White.
Myles Kovacs, TIS Industries
Melanie White, Hellwig Products
Distributor/Retailer - One Open Seat
Rob Ward (left) and Ted Wentz.
Rob Ward, Legacy EV
Ted Wentz, Quadratec, Incumbent
Voting will take place online between May 9-23, and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact.
Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact beginning Friday, April 28. Winners will be announced by June 1.
The September 2023 issue of SEMA News will highlight rising stars in the automotive aftermarket industry who are age 35 and younger. If you know a leader who fits that description as of September 1, 2023--whether they are in manufacturing and design, marketing, retail, events and media or distribution--we want to hear from you.
Many SEMA members work with creative young entrepreneurs and professionals who are already industry trailblazers. They may have played key roles in leveraging new and emerging technologies with a traditional automotive aftermarket business to expand company reach, improve product development, energize marketing efforts or upgrade customer interaction.
They could also be budding talents at an established company, entrepreneurs building their own brands or innovators who have launched companies that might be big names in the future. What they all will have in common are fresh ideas, enthusiasm, charisma and the drive to succeed.
SEMA News looks for candidates drawn from diverse industry segments who are already making a significant impact through their leadership within their organizations or businesses. Entrepreneurship, commitment, insight, innovation, integrity, responsibility, demonstrated skill, involvement and success within the marketplace weigh heavily in the decision-making process.
We'll honor the winners in the September issue of SEMA News and on sema.org.
Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest jobs posted to the website.
CSF Cooling in Rancho Cucamonga, California, is hiring an executive assistant to perform administrative needs, such as filing, generating reports, processing orders, sending invoices/tracking to customers, reviewing expense reports, meeting scheduling, logistical planning for events and trade shows, preparing and circulating documents, capturing and chasing action items. Candidates should have 0-2 years of experience in an administrative role. Automotive industry experience is preferred, but not required.
HP Tuners in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, is hiring a support engineer responsible for working with sales, support and engineering to facilitate timely resolution of issues through the utilization of advanced tools and communication. There will be a high amount of collaboration between multiple departments. Candidates must be proficient in VPW, CAN, VPP and K-line communications and have more than five years of experience troubleshooting software and two years' minimum of automotive industry experience.
ProCharger in Lenexa, Kansas, is hiring a sales representative with a comprehensive understanding and passion for the high-performance motorsports industry as well as strong mechanical aptitude. This position will be involved in the daily sales process, building relationships with consumers, dealers and racers. Other duties include the ability to travel to events, trade shows and meet with dealers. Candidates must have more than three years of sales success. Experience selling in the performance aftermarket and/or automotive industry is beneficial.
Registration for the 2023 SEMA Show--to be held October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas--opens May 1. The annual automotive aftermarket industry gathering is the ultimate marketplace for debuting innovative new products and groundbreaking vehicle builds and tapping into the latest trends. It is also the prime destination for making new business connections and strengthening existing ones, bringing together all segments of the industry--including racing and performance, mobile electronics, hot rod and restoration, restyling and car care, collision repair, trucks, off-road, powersports, overlanding and wheels and tires.
"With the worldwide automotive industry gathered together in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show gives attendees a rare opportunity to connect in a unique way," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. "Attendees build meaningful relationships, develop trust and strengthen bonds that lead to partnerships and real results. They are engaging on a level that doesn't compare to anything else."
The SEMA Show is the prime destination for making new business connections and strengthening existing ones.
SEMA is dedicated to making the Show as cost-effective as possible for all. By registering early, you can take advantage of the best rates and receive all the necessary information for planning your SEMA Show experience. Early registration also ensures that you will receive your badges in the mail before November's event. From now until until June 30, pricing is just $40. The cost will increase to $60 after June 30 and $120 after September 29.
"The most successful attendees at the SEMA Show are those who secure their credentials early," Gattuso said. "In addition to saving money, Showgoers who register early benefit by learning about special events, opportunities and discounts."
Also, 49 hotels in the official SEMA Show block, powered by onPeak--the SEMA Show's official housing partner--are available with the most-affordable prices and best locations and features on and off the Strip. All of the hotels available through the SEMA Show Block come with a low-price guarantee. To help ensure that your price remains the lowest, SEMA will price-match lower advertised rates, even after your reservations are set. The SEMA Show also provides shuttle service to and from the Show for hotels that are not within walking distance to the Las Vegas Convention Center.
SEMA Show registration comes with countless business-altering benefits, including, but not limited to:
The opportunity to connect with thousands of brands across the sprawling SEMA Show campus.
Access to the SEMA Show's number-one buyer destination--the New Products Showcase--which displays the latest, most innovative products across 16 industry categories.
Access to the adjacent Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) Show.
Numerous networking opportunities with the global aftermarket industry.
Member access to a variety of lounges for opportunities to connect across the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Access to free education sessions across several different tracks designed to build businesses and careers.
High-level keynote discussions featuring automotive celebrities and industry leaders.
Unique experiences, including the Kick-Off Breakfast, SEMA council and network receptions, the SEMA Cruise and more.
Thousands of the latest vehicle builds of all types on display.
Glimpses of our industry's future with sections dedicated to new technology, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels, collision and repair, overlanding, ADAS, SEMA Data, SEMA Battle of the Builders and automotive art and culture.
Travel discounts.
SEMA Show registration is offered in three primary categories--attendee, exhibitor and media--and everyone must qualify to attend. For more information about qualifying documents and the 2023 SEMA Show, visit SEMAShow.com.
Official registration opens May 1, but don't miss out; inquire now about registering to attend!
Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions has announced that veteran wrap and graphics industry professional Blake Madsen has joined the Avery Dennison team as one of its wrap trainers. Madsen’s first class is May 1-2 at Warrior Wraps in Las Vegas.
Madsen is an accomplished professional in the wrap and graphics industry, with more than 15 years of experience in the field. He began his career in 2006, working in sign and print shops mastering the art of vehicle wraps. Madsen's passion for his craft led him to compete in numerous wrap competitions, where he consistently placed at the top of his class. His expertise and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including seven industry certifications including becoming Avery Dennison certified in 2016. A year later in 2017, Madsen founded his company, Brand Command, which specializes in commercial vehicle branding.
For more information about Avery Dennison 2023 wrap classes, PPF and Automotive Window Film classes, and certification schedules, visit graphics.averydennison.com/training.
Dragonfly Energy and Airstream Form Battery Partnership
Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp. has announced it has partnered with Airstream, manufacturer of riveted aluminum travel trailers, to provide Battle Born Batteries as standard equipment in the Pottery Barn Special Edition Travel Trailer and Classic Travel Trailer models, and as an optional upgrade on the REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer.
Additionally, Dragonfly Energy was recently named an Airstream Five Rivet Supplier and was awarded the Top Improvement Score Designation as a result of their comprehensive service and support program. Dragonfly Energy has a strategic partnership with THOR Industries, the parent company of the Airstream brand, supplying lithium-ion batteries for several of the THOR family of companies.
Epicor Donates $100,000 to Northwood University for Aftermarket Software Training Lab
The Sloan Family Building for Aftermarket Studies at Northwood University. Northwood is the only school in the country to offer an automotive aftermarket management major. It recently received a $100,000 gift from Epicor to fund a new lab for students to learn leading automotive aftermarket software.
Northwood University has announced it has received a $100,000 gift from Epicor, a global leader of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth, to fund a new lab for students to learn leading automotive aftermarket software.
"The generous donation from Epicor has provided funding to establish this new lab, which will integrate Epicor Auto-based products into higher education courses," stated Dr. Kristin Stehouwer, academic vice president and provost for Northwood University. "The classes will be designed so students are educated in the use of Epicor Auto Product capabilities as they graduate and go into the marketplace, or in some cases, interview for employment at Epicor. The goal is to have at least one upper-level and one lower-level course with an Epicor Lab each semester."
Additionally, students who successfully complete the Epicor Lab series can apply and test for an industry certification. The lab coursework will correlate to the current undergraduate program to enhance and reinforce classroom learning.
Oracle Lighting to Exhibit During Jeep Beach 2023
Oracle Lighting has announced it will exhibit during Jeep Beach 2023, held in Daytona Beach, Florida, April 23-30, as part of the event's 20th anniversary celebration. According to event organizers, Jeep Beach is one of the largest Jeep-exclusive events in the world, attracting more than 225,000 people and 25,000 Jeeps to Daytona Beach in 2022. All 50 states and 34 countries were represented last year. During Jeep Beach 2023, Oracle Lighting will feature a number of its new Jeep-specific lighting solutions.
NGK Spark Plugs Co. Rebrands to Niterra
Officials with NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) have announced its corporate company has rebranded to Niterra. While Niterra will become the group's overall name, the brands NGK and NTK will continue to exist for the company's respective ignition and sensor businesses. The move is in alignment with the company's "2040 Vision" and "2030 Long-Term Management Plan," which will see the company "transform its portfolio in more sustainability-driven directions." Niterra is based out of Aichi, Japan. For more information, visit ngkntk.com.
EGR USA Debuts the Ultimate Overlanding Jeep Gladiator at Overland Expo 2023
EGR USA has built an overlanding Jeep Gladiator for debut at Overland Expo 2023. EGR USA and the new Ultimate Jeep Gladiator will attend all four Overland Expo events: Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona (May 19-21); Overland Expo PNW, Redmond, Oregon (July 7-9); Overland Expo Mountain West in Loveland, Colorado (August 25-27); and Overland Expo East in Arrington, Virginia (October 6-8).
The Ultimate Overlanding Jeep Gladiator is a '21 Hydro Blue Gladiator JT that features EGR's electric retractable EGR RollTrac bed cover, EGR Superguard hood guard with a dark smoke finish, EGR in-channel window visors in a black matte finish, a LEITNER forged Active Cargo System (ACS) rack, LEITNER HydroPod portable shower kit, MaxTrax MKII recovery boards, TACTIK Stubby front bumper with hoop, TACTIK T10 high-performance winch, Carnivore front bumper from Quadratec, 2.5/3.5 Rubicon Express lift kit, satin black Lynx wheels and 35-in. NITTO Trail Grappler tires from Quadratec and Rock Slide Engineering four-door step slider.
Chris Anderson Appointed Executive Vice President of Elgin Industries
Elgin Industries has announced the appointment of Chris Anderson as executive vice president. Anderson, who joined Elgin in 2000, most recently served as executive vice president of the Elgin World Trade operating unit. He reports to Elgin President and CEO Bill Skok. In his new role, Anderson will assume additional operating responsibility for the company's domestic and overseas businesses.
Speedway Motors has announced the dates for its 2023 Cars & Coffee events, held at its company headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska, on the last Saturday of each month, May through October. The family-friendly gathering features an extensive car display, camaraderie of the automotive and motorsports community, plus coffee and donuts. Those who display their car will also receive two complimentary vouchers for the Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed.
In addition, the May 27 kick-off event will feature cars from the pages of Wheel Hub magazine, which will fill the newly completed 90,000-sq.-ft. expansion in the museum. For more information, visit the Speedway Motors announcement here.
Tread Lightly! has announced the addition of a new Utah program manager, Brett Pennefather, who will be responsible for creating and fostering relationships with the land managers that allow for the implementation of Tread Lightly!’s stewardship, education and outreach programs.
Pennefather has a keen interest in people and their relationship with the environment, which steered him to a national diploma in nature conservation from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in South Africa. After working in the safari industry, he embarked on an international career of whitewater rafting, kayaking and canyoneering guiding in Scotland, Morocco, Nepal, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cambodia, New Zealand and Uganda.
Pennefather and his wife moved to Utah for all the outdoor opportunities that the state has to offer. He spent a year and a half as a field producer for a Salt Lake City-based TV show "At Your Leisure," where he got to spend quality time in the Utah outdoors, meeting and sharing experiences with diverse enthusiasts across the state.
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.
As a result, the EPA estimates that two-thirds of new passenger vehicles sold in the United States would be EVs by 2032 under its proposed standards. SEMA opposes the proposed rule as currently written. More detail is provided in the talking points below:
Overview
The EPA recently proposed rules requiring light-duty vehicles to meet increasingly stringent emissions reductions for model-years '27 through '32 (see table at the end of this document for more detail).
It has also eliminated an exemption provided to low-volume car manufacturers (those that produce fewer than 5,000 vehicles a year).
The proposal, as drafted, is essentially the knock-out punch to the internal combustion engine (ICE) technologies the specialty automotive aftermarket has built its industry around.
The Biden Administration estimates this proposal will result in two out of three new vehicles sold in the United States being electric by 2032. The proposal is not technology neutral, as the EPA and White House suggest.
Ultimately, if these regulations are implemented, it will likely lead to more government subsidies to large automakers to manufacture EVs and for consumers to purchase them.
We have already witnessed massive government subsidies to implement the infrastructure to support EVs:
The Infrastructure Bill that became law in 2022 funded 500,000 EV charging stations nationally.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 financially incentivized Americans to purchase EVs.
Government policies should support the work of small-business innovators that employ millions of Americans by letting the market and innovation drive solutions to the environmental challenges we all seek to solve.
The unintended consequences of these regulations will be extremely far-reaching, adversely impacting rural and urban vehicle owners and reducing consumer choice.
Why SEMA opposes the current rules, as proposed:
The proposal intends to lower carbon emissions in a way that essentially forces EVs to become the only option for automakers to produce and consumers to purchase. Given the subsidies in place for EV purchases and production, EVs are the de facto choice to achieve the rulemaking's climate goals, as other options, such as hydrogen, new synthetic fuels and multiple renewables, do not enjoy a level playing field of subsidies.
SEMA believes the government should not pick winners and losers regarding automotive technologies and that the market should drive technology solutions. The current proposal places the federal government's thumb squarely on the scale for EVs.
This proposal flies in the face of consumers having the freedom to purchase the vehicles that best suit their personal needs and the needs of their families.
It also discriminates against consumers in rural markets with limited EV infrastructure and against consumers who drive long distances for work and other daily necessities, making EV charging stations less accessible.
Urban consumers will also be heavily disadvantaged in an EV-centric market with limited access to charging stations for those who park on streets or parking garages that can't fully equip themselves with necessary charging stations.
The proposal would treat hybrids unfairly, essentially blocking them out of the marketplace and defining them as "dirty."
A dozen states have recently introduced or passed legislation or resolutions affirming support for the internal combustion engine and for government to remain technology-neutral in the debate to reduce automotive emissions. The federal government should follow the states' lead.
Impact to small business
Small businesses will be most vulnerable to the disruptions caused by a seismic shift to battery-electric vehicles.
According to the most recent Census Bureau tally of the almost 1,200 auto engine and transmission parts suppliers in the United States, more than 60% had 20 or fewer employees. These companies often make specialized components, operate on tight margins and rely on long-term contracts.
Ninety-five percent of SEMA's business members are small businesses.
They employ American workers with technical skills and create the often politically celebrated blue-collar jobs.
The specialty automotive aftermarket has led technology innovation, making vehicles more fuel efficient, safer and more appealing to consumers.
Large automakers are losing billions a year in their EV programs, despite the massive financial infusion of taxpayer dollars they receive from the government and subsidies to purchase EVs.
If the large manufacturers are struggling, how are small businesses expected to survive?
More details about the proposed rules:
Lowers the allowable emissions from ICE-powered vehicles over the course of five years by about 13% each year (see table at the end of this document for more detail).
Creates an allowable limit for the fleet of vehicles produced by a single manufacturer that can only be met by a significant percentage of the fleet being EV.
Vehicle emissions would only measure the vehicle's tailpipe and evap emissions. It will not include calculations with regard to the carbon footprint of the battery manufacturing or the power plant generating the electricity, or its future recyclability.
New GHG standards would significantly reduce the allowed fuel consumption from bigger footprint cars forcing automakers to produce smaller cars. This would exacerbate the spread between what the consumer wants and what would be available for sale, likely leading to significant financial problems for the manufacturers.
Fleet BEV Penetration Rates, by Body Style, Under the Proposed Standards
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
Sedans
45%
53%
61%
69%
73%
78%
CUVs/SUVs
38%
46%
56%
59%
61%
62%
Pickups
11%
23%
37%
45%
55%
68%
Total
36%
45%
55%
60%
63%
67%
Fleet BEV Penetration Rates, by Body Style, Under the No Action Case
As a result, the EPA estimates that two-thirds of new passenger vehicles sold in the United States would be EVs by 2032 under its proposed standards. SEMA opposes the proposed rule as currently written. More detail is provided in the talking points below:
Overview
The EPA recently proposed rules requiring light-duty vehicles to meet increasingly stringent emissions reductions for model-years '27 through '32 (see table at the end of this document for more detail).
It has also eliminated an exemption provided to low-volume car manufacturers (those that produce fewer than 5,000 vehicles a year).
The proposal, as drafted, is essentially the knock-out punch to the internal combustion engine (ICE) technologies the specialty automotive aftermarket has built its industry around.
The Biden Administration estimates this proposal will result in two out of three new vehicles sold in the United States being electric by 2032. The proposal is not technology neutral, as the EPA and White House suggest.
Ultimately, if these regulations are implemented, it will likely lead to more government subsidies to large automakers to manufacture EVs and for consumers to purchase them.
We have already witnessed massive government subsidies to implement the infrastructure to support EVs:
The Infrastructure Bill that became law in 2022 funded 500,000 EV charging stations nationally.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 financially incentivized Americans to purchase EVs.
Government policies should support the work of small-business innovators that employ millions of Americans by letting the market and innovation drive solutions to the environmental challenges we all seek to solve.
The unintended consequences of these regulations will be extremely far-reaching, adversely impacting rural and urban vehicle owners and reducing consumer choice.
Why SEMA opposes the current rules, as proposed:
The proposal intends to lower carbon emissions in a way that essentially forces EVs to become the only option for automakers to produce and consumers to purchase. Given the subsidies in place for EV purchases and production, EVs are the de facto choice to achieve the rulemaking's climate goals, as other options, such as hydrogen, new synthetic fuels and multiple renewables, do not enjoy a level playing field of subsidies.
SEMA believes the government should not pick winners and losers regarding automotive technologies and that the market should drive technology solutions. The current proposal places the federal government's thumb squarely on the scale for EVs.
This proposal flies in the face of consumers having the freedom to purchase the vehicles that best suit their personal needs and the needs of their families.
It also discriminates against consumers in rural markets with limited EV infrastructure and against consumers who drive long distances for work and other daily necessities, making EV charging stations less accessible.
Urban consumers will also be heavily disadvantaged in an EV-centric market with limited access to charging stations for those who park on streets or parking garages that can't fully equip themselves with necessary charging stations.
The proposal would treat hybrids unfairly, essentially blocking them out of the marketplace and defining them as "dirty."
A dozen states have recently introduced or passed legislation or resolutions affirming support for the internal combustion engine and for government to remain technology-neutral in the debate to reduce automotive emissions. The federal government should follow the states' lead.
Impact to small business
Small businesses will be most vulnerable to the disruptions caused by a seismic shift to battery-electric vehicles.
According to the most recent Census Bureau tally of the almost 1,200 auto engine and transmission parts suppliers in the United States, more than 60% had 20 or fewer employees. These companies often make specialized components, operate on tight margins and rely on long-term contracts.
Ninety-five percent of SEMA's business members are small businesses.
They employ American workers with technical skills and create the often politically celebrated blue-collar jobs.
The specialty automotive aftermarket has led technology innovation, making vehicles more fuel efficient, safer and more appealing to consumers.
Large automakers are losing billions a year in their EV programs, despite the massive financial infusion of taxpayer dollars they receive from the government and subsidies to purchase EVs.
If the large manufacturers are struggling, how are small businesses expected to survive?
More details about the proposed rules:
Lowers the allowable emissions from ICE-powered vehicles over the course of five years by about 13% each year (see table at the end of this document for more detail).
Creates an allowable limit for the fleet of vehicles produced by a single manufacturer that can only be met by a significant percentage of the fleet being EV.
Vehicle emissions would only measure the vehicle's tailpipe and evap emissions. It will not include calculations with regard to the carbon footprint of the battery manufacturing or the power plant generating the electricity, or its future recyclability.
New GHG standards would significantly reduce the allowed fuel consumption from bigger footprint cars forcing automakers to produce smaller cars. This would exacerbate the spread between what the consumer wants and what would be available for sale, likely leading to significant financial problems for the manufacturers.
Fleet BEV Penetration Rates, by Body Style, Under the Proposed Standards
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
Sedans
45%
53%
61%
69%
73%
78%
CUVs/SUVs
38%
46%
56%
59%
61%
62%
Pickups
11%
23%
37%
45%
55%
68%
Total
36%
45%
55%
60%
63%
67%
Fleet BEV Penetration Rates, by Body Style, Under the No Action Case
MAVTV Motorsports Network adds coverage of seven Must See Racing National Sprint Car series events on a tape-delayed basis as part of the All-American Racing programming block on Monday nights. Coverage of the sprint car series will begin with the American Speed U.S. Nationals taking place over Memorial Day weekend at Michigan's Birch Run Speedway on May 26 and 27 and airing in two parts on the MAVTV network starting June 12.
The two-day event will be aired on the MAVTV network in two separate one-hour programs, part one airing on Monday, June 12, and part two following on Monday, June 19. Coverage includes both the MSR National 410 Series and the MSR Midwest Light Series. Broadcast footage will feature multiple in car cameras, speed shots and aerial drone video. The series features drivers from across the United States, Canada and South Africa.
2023 Must See Racing Broadcast Schedule on MAVTV:
Monday, June 12: American Speed U.S. Nationals, part 1
Monday, June 19: American Speed U.S. Nationals, part 2
Monday, August 7: The Engine Pro Fast Car Dash
Monday, September 4: Bob Frey Classic Jerry Caryer Memorial 40
Monday, September 18: David D. Mateer Tribute Night of Speed
Monday, October 9: Pink Lady Classic Elliot Sportsman Classic, part 1
Monday, October 16: Pink Lady Classic Elliot Sportsman Classic, part 2
Longtime announcer Jacob Seelman will bring his years of experience and enthusiasm to the broadcast booth, joined by Pavement Pounders sprint car historian and information guru David Sink, reporting from the pits with all the behind-the-scenes stories. The duo will be joined during each broadcast by a special guest color commentator.
Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Unveils 2024 Induction Class
The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA) has announced its 2024 induction class. The class of 2024 includes the all-time winningest NHRA Top Fuel Funny Car crew chief Austin Coil (Drag Racing), six-time IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon (Open Wheel), HANS Device inventors Jim Downing and Dr. Robert Hubbard (Technology), desert racing legend and Hollywood stuntman Bud Ekins (Motorcycles), seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson (Stock Cars), four-time SCCA national champion and eight-time IndyCar title-winning owner Paul Newman (At Large) and 1966 Can-Am champion and championship-winning constructor John Surtees (Sports Cars).
Two additional Historic Category inductees will be announced this summer. The honorees will be formally celebrated during the 36th Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Induction Celebration presented by Toyota Racing in Daytona Beach, Florida, in March 2024. For more information, including honoree bios, visit the MSHFA announcement here.
Extreme E Names New Appointments
Officials with Extreme E--the off-road racing series featuring electric SUVs and founded by the same team behind Formula E--have announced new appointments within the organization. Peter Gallagher has been named to the newly created role of commercial director. He will be "targeting new race locations and even more industry-leading partnerships." He most recently served as the head of partnership development at Arsenal F.C. soccer club.
Kris Reid has been appointed to head of marketing. He served as marketing lead for the Formula E London E-Prix, where he was responsible for overseeing all marketing initiatives for the event. Reid has several years of experience across a range of industries, including sports, music and fashion.
Nic Makepeace, meanwhile, is now the senior digital manager. He most recently worked for Seven League, where he managed the social output for the National Basketball Association (NBA) in Europe and the Middle East.
Matt Field Wins Opening Round of 2023 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship
Matt Field's win at the opening round of the 2023 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship proved he'd lost none of the determination that drove him to the top last year, only to lose by a handful of points. In the Final, Field maintained great proximity in the chase position against Rome Charpentier, and went deep enough to touch the walls at OZ1 and 3 on his lead run. It was enough to give him a win and return him to the top of the title standings, where he spent most of 2022.
For Charpentier, second place was an achievement, especially since Vitour Tire had only joined the series a few weeks before the opening round, giving the teams very little time for testing. However, the success of Charpentier and Hurst put Vitour at the top of the 2023 Formula DRIFT Tire Cup, above its experienced rivals, while Field catapulted Chevrolet in the top spot of the 2023 FD Auto Cup.
The top Formula DRIFT PRO Rookie at Long Beach was Diego Higa (Brazil) who placed 22nd overall in his Toyota GT86.
NASCAR Commits to Net-Zero Operating Emissions by 2035
NASCAR officials have announced its first long-term carbon-emissions goal as part of NASCAR IMPACT--an umbrella platform spotlighting sustainability, community engagement and other social initiatives. Highlighting NASCAR IMPACT is a plan for the organization to reduce its carbon footprint to zero across its core operations by 2035.
"It's an ambitious goal but one that holds us accountable as we begin to think about sustainability differently," said Eric Nyquist, NASCAR's chief communications and impact officer. "There is much work to be done, but the fundamental objective is clear: we must reduce our emissions over time."
Additional sustainability priorities include 100% renewable electricity at owned race tracks and facilities, the development of a sustainable racing fuel, expanded recycling efforts and on-site EV charging stations. NASCAR will track the progress of its sustainability goals in an annually published NASCAR IMPACT Report, which will also measure the collective impact of other impact-driven functions, including The NASCAR Foundation, diversity, equity and inclusion, STEM education, supplier diversity through sourcing and procurement and more.
With the launch of NASCAR IMPACT and its new sustainability strategy, NASCAR has discontinued its NASCAR Green platform, which was established in 2009 as the sport's first industry-wide sustainability platform.
For more information, visit the NASCAR announcement here.
When it comes to insurance needs, how do builders and shop owners determine which policies are necessary and how much coverage to get? Is the existing coverage putting your business at risk? Does the language of insurance get confusing?
While an insurance review may seem time consuming and tedious, it does not have to be overwhelming. Shop owners in the automotive aftermarket are invited to the webinar "What Builders Need to Know About Insurance Needs, Powered by HRIA" on May 9, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) to learn tips and advice for reviewing their policy.
Attendees will learn:
The most common mistakes builders make with their insurance coverage.
The different types of insurance coverage shop owners need to know about.
How often shops should reassess their insurance policies.
Definitions to insurance jargon and lingo that will demystify the process.
Questions to ask your insurance provider that will help save you money.
This webinar includes a Q&A with Trent Campbell of American National Insurance and Bob Corwin of RevPro/Alliant. Participants will also hear case studies from other automotive aftermarket shop owners and a brief update on HRIA programs and benefits.
Oracle Lighting has announced it will exhibit during Jeep Beach 2023, held in Daytona Beach, Florida, April 23-30, as part of the event's 20th anniversary celebration. According to event organizers, Jeep Beach is one of the largest Jeep-exclusive events in the world, attracting more than 225,000 people and 25,000 Jeeps to Daytona Beach in 2022. All 50 states and 34 countries were represented last year. During Jeep Beach 2023, Oracle Lighting will feature a number of its new Jeep-specific lighting solutions.
EGR USA has built an overlanding Jeep Gladiator for debut at Overland Expo 2023. EGR USA and the new Ultimate Jeep Gladiator will attend all four Overland Expo events: Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona (May 19-21); Overland Expo PNW, Redmond, Oregon (July 7-9); Overland Expo Mountain West in Loveland, Colorado (August 25-27); and Overland Expo East in Arrington, Virginia (October 6-8).
Speedway Motors has announced the dates for its 2023 Cars & Coffee events, held at its company headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska, on the last Saturday of each month, May through October. The family-friendly gathering features an extensive car display, camaraderie of the automotive and motorsports community, plus coffee and donuts. Those who display their car will also receive two complimentary vouchers for the Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed.
Tread Lightly! has announced the addition of a new Utah program manager, Brett Pennefather, who will be responsible for creating and fostering relationships with the land managers that allow for the implementation of Tread Lightly!’s stewardship, education and outreach programs.
Matt Field Wins Opening Round of 2023 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship