By Juan Torres

Applications are now available for the SEMA Show Battle of the Builders, the coveted competition that unites and recognizes SEMA Show vehicle builders. Open exclusively to those with a car or truck displayed at the annual trade show taking place in November, the competition celebrates and honors top builders for reaching what many consider to be the pinnacle of automotive events. The competition, now in its eighth year, tells the stories behind the builds, and it provides builders with additional exposure and a chance to be recognized and named as the industry’s top builder.

With vehicle space available only to qualified exhibitors, SEMA Show vehicle builders represent an elite group of individuals who have the distinction of superior craftsmanship and proven excellence. Exhibitors are highly selective on the vehicles and builders they choose to showcase their products, capture attention and drive traffic to their booths.

“Exhibitors rely on vehicles at the SEMA Show to optimally showcase their products in use and generate buzz,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “When an exhibitor chooses to showcase a vehicle, whether it’s in their booth or elsewhere in the Show, that exhibitor is investing in the build and the builder. They’re choosing the best builders to represent their brands and tell their stories.”

The SEMA Battle of the Builders competition will award one winner in four different categories—Hot Rod, Truck/Off-Road, Import/Sport Compact and Young Guns—before crowning an overall top builder during SEMA Ignited, the official SEMA Show afterparty that takes place on Friday after the weeklong trade show ends.

As part of SEMA’s initiative to support and encourage the younger generation in the industry, the association will continue its SEMA Young Guns Regional Qualifiers. Applications for the Young Guns Regional Qualifiers are also available online, making the program open to builders who may not already have a vehicle displayed at the SEMA Show, provided they are 27 years and younger. Young Guns Regional Qualifier winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip for two to the 2021 SEMA Show, transportation of the winner’s vehicle, a designated feature vehicle spot at the Show and entry into the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition, where they will compete alongside established vehicle builders from the industry.

“Each year, we meet amazing young builders through the Young Guns Program,” said Gattuso. “It’s inspiring to witness the passion they have for all things car-related, and to see the industry embrace them as they build a network of contacts and connections that will fuel a lifelong career.”

To register, or for more information on the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition, log on to www.semashow.com/botb. The deadline to register is October 15.

By Jay Carpio, Fredy Ramirez & Carr Winn

“Carr Parts” is dedicated to builders. It’s about quick tips and tricks and the newest must-have products. It’s about visiting with a fellow builder, walking around their project and getting an up-close look at their handiwork. It's also about our industry sharing their passion for turning a wrench and taking time to give advice to fellow gearheads. Episode 10 features part two of Luke Elias from Lifted Wrangler as he continues to encourage enthusiasts to cut through the fear and start turning a wrench.

For more information about other talented young builders, visit SEMA's Young Guns at www.semayoungguns.com.

SEMA’s video team is currently in production on future episodes of “Carr Parts“ and we’d love to hear from you. Do you have a tip, trick or advice you can share with our audience? Drop us a note on social via @SEMA_Association and we’ll connect with you.

We can't wait to find the next guest for “Carr Parts.” And finally...keep building.

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

LUVERNE
Black Stainless Steel Side Entry Steps for ’20 Ram 1500 to 5500

LUVERNE Side Entry Steps feature a classic, contoured design that mounts flush to the truck's rocker panels to provide 5-1/2-in. of comfortable, non-skid stepping width while helping to protect the rocker panels against gravel spray, road debris, mud and other threats.

This set of Side Entry Steps fits the ’20 Ram 1500 to 5500 crew cab, as well as other model years.

• Contoured design with classic running board styling.
• Mounts tight against the vehicle to shield rocker panels from gravel spray.
• Molded, 5-1/2-in. wide, plastic step pads provide safe, comfortable entry and exit.
• Powder-coated stainless steel construction for maximum corrosion resistance.
• Durable, textured black powder coat for a sleek, rust-free finish.
• Black plastic end caps for a bold appearance and added protection.
• High-strength steel mounting brackets with a vehicle-specific fit.
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts).
• Assembled in USA.

www.luvernetruck.com
PN: 281033-571632

Tuffy Security Products
Ford Super Duty Super Crew Cab Under Rear Seat Lockbox

Tuffy Security Products’ secure under-rear-seat lockbox is a storage solution for ’03–’16 Ford Super Duty Super Crew model pickups without a subwoofer. It has two lids that are the same length as the rear seats. Offering more than 2,170 ci of storage space, it is designed to fit under the driver’s side rear seat.

Manufactured with welded 16-gauge steel with a double-texture powdercoat finish, the lockbox has a weather-resistant lid that incorporates an exclusive hinging system with a built-in lid stop. Additional security is provided through its Pin-Lock hinge design.  

The company’s Pry-Guard locking system is made of 1/8-in.-thick welded components and the lid can be closed without locking the box. A 10 tumbler double-bitted lock has built-in weather seals. Ideal for securing long objects, such as firearms, it features a no-drill installation.

www.tuffyproducts.com
PN: 309

UWS
48-in. Truck Side Tool Box With Low Profile

UWS truck side tool boxes provide valuable storage and security for your items in the bed of your truck. Each box features a corrosion-resistant aluminum construction, a stainless steel locking system and a patented RigidCore foam-filled lid.

This particular truck side tool box also features a low-profile lid. It mounts low on the truck bed wall to better integrate with UWS low-profile crossover tool boxes and help maintain a clear view out the rear truck cab window.

• Mounts on the inside of the truck bedrails to provide additional storage space.
• Patented RigidCore foam-filled lid to maximize strength and prevent binding.
• Built lower on the bedrail to match low-profile crossover tool boxes.
• 0.058-in. extra-thick, one-piece aluminum tub holds heavy tools and cargo.
• Lockable, push-button operation with non-corrosive stainless-steel construction.
• MicroSeal gasket helps seal out moisture, dust and dirt.
• Lid self-opens to nearly 90 degrees for convenient operation and loading.
• Multiple box sizes available for a custom fit on each truck application.
• Assembled in USA.
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts).

www.uwsta.com
PN: TBSM-48-LP

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

Continental
New Wireless Camera Line

Continental added a new line of wireless cameras and monitors to its performance range of cameras systems. The new cameras are ideal for use on articulated equipment or vehicles where long cable lengths are not preferred.

Available in 12V and 24V configurations, Continental new wireless cameras offer a wide range of applications in small and medium trucks, agricultural and construction equipment, and material handling applications. The line also incorporates a camera designed specifically for forklift applications.

www.continentaltire.com

Classic Instruments
’33–’34 Ford Car Package

Classic Instruments released a ’33–’34 Ford Car Package. The cluster will include a speedometer, fuel level, temperature, oil pressure, and volt gauges; along with indicator lights. A matching 3 3/8-in. tachometer in a chrome mounting cup is also available.

All the gauges are electronic operation. The fuel gauge is programmable for any ohm range with a selector switch on the back of the cluster, meaning the fuel gauge will work with the stock sending unit, any other factory sending units, or any Classic Instruments fuel sending unit. The package includes a machined, chrome-plated bezel and engine-turned aluminum face plate. The standard sending unit kit included is Classic Instruments’ SNFD.
Additional features include:

• LED lighting.
• Green turn-signal indicators, blue high-beam indicator, and red LED warning light.
• Separate power (12V) and ground leads in the wire harness. Allows the customer flexibility of function, examples include: Check Engine, Emergency Brake, Open Door, Low Oil Pressure.
• Injection-molded housing.
• One single snap-in wire harness on the back, for the cluster wiring.
• Zeus Speedometer Technology built-in.
• Push-button speedometer calibration.

www.classicinstruments.com

Meguiar’s
Last Touch Spray Detailer

Meguiar’s announced the addition of its newest item for professional detailers and detailing enthusiasts, Meguiar’s Last Touch Spray Detailer. D155 Last Touch Spray Detailer has been a go-to in the professional detailing community for well over a decade now as a clay bar lubricant and as a final wipe down before a customer takes delivery of their car. Now, this professional-grade detailer will be available in a conveniently pre-diluted formula that’s ready to use right out of the bottle.

Last Touch Spray Detailer removes fresh surface contaminants like dust, smudges, fingerprints, and other contaminants while quickly enhancing a vehicle’s gloss and protection. The formula is safe on paint, chrome, plastic, and vinyl.

www.meguiars.com

Luno
Car Camping Fan

Luno’s 5-in. USB-powered fan attaches to your windows with a hefty, stay-tight suction cup. The articulating ball mount gives you full control over the direction of airflow to keep you cool and comfortable while camping.

Core Features

• Reusable locking suction cup that attaches windows and vehicle dashboards.
• 3-speed 12V portable camping fan.
• In-line remote controls fan speeds with blue LED light.
• Works with any USB-A portable power solution.
• Articulating ball mount for adjusting the fan’s angle.
• Adhesive backing on the power button for convenient placement.

Tech Specs

• Product Size 4 in. x 2.25 in. x 5 in.
• Packaged Size 4.25 in. x 2.5 in. x 6 in.
• Material ABS Polymer
• Weight .65 lbs (.3 kg)
• Color Black

www.lunolife.com

CURT
PowerRide 30K 5th Wheel Hitch

CURT launched its new PowerRide 30K 5th wheel hitch. The hitch enters the market as part of the company's extensive line of top quality 5th wheel hitches.

PowerRide equips hardworking truck with a professional-grade solution for 5th wheel towing. It is ideal for towing the largest RV trailers, campers and other 5th wheel trailers. It features a 30,000-lb. fully tested rating and a number of distinct features, including a cast head with multi-directional tilt, an easy-to-use self-resetting handle, enhanced portability, and no welding or fabricating required for installation. With its 30K gross trailer weight rating and 7,500-lb. vertical load limit, this CURT 5th wheel offers exceptional towing power and is constructed with a cast steel main body for dependable strength.

Product Video: www.curtmfg.com/powerride

By Della Domingo

With more than 3,000 media credentials issued at the SEMA Show each year, the annual trade show provides exhibitors with a great opportunity to generate media coverage and increase product awareness. While having a dedicated media relations strategy is always important, having a plan at the SEMA Show is critical. Like others at the SEMA Show, journalists are busy gathering as much relevant content for their audiences as possible. Exhibitors can increase their media coverage by avoiding some of the most common media mistakes, listed below:

Mistake #1: Not Entering a Product in the New Products Showcase. One of the first stops for media attending the SEMA Show is a visit to the New Products Showcase searching for the best new products. Despite this, less than one third of all exhibitors enter a product into the Showcase. The first product entry is free for all exhibitors; however, the most successful exhibitors participate in the Showcase with not just one product, but multiple entries.

Mistake #2: Not Having Someone Dedicated to Media Efforts. Having an outside agency/consultant has many benefits, especially since they typically have media-relations experience and resources. However, exhibitors can still be successful by keeping their media relations in-house. The key is to assign someone the responsibility of managing the media program and to make the media a priority. While your primary business is getting the product ready and selling to buyers, making the media a priority will lead to top results.

Mistake #3: Ignoring the Media. More than 3,000 automotive media attend the Show looking for the latest products and news in the industry. One conversation with a journalist can elevate your presence at the SEMA Show and expose your product or service to a wider audience. Don’t ignore media who come to your booth or reach out to you via email.

Mistake #4: Giving the Media Buyer Brochures. One key to managing media inquiries is to prepare product news in advance. Brochures and catalogs are helpful, but many media prefer prewritten press releases that they can copy and paste, along with high-resolution images or easy-to-download video clips. Most editorial workers prefer that this information be supplied on a flash drive or online link.

Mistake #5: Being Quiet About Their Participation in the SEMA Show. Media plan for the SEMA Show months before the event arrives. By the time journalists arrive in Las Vegas, their calendars are often filled. Exhibitors who promote their involvement in advance increase the likelihood of being included on a reporter’s schedule. Exhibitors can get in front of journalists by posting press releases at no cost in the SEMA Show online media center.

Mistake #6: Not Posting in the Online Media Center. The Online Media Center is available for exhibitors to post Show-related news at no cost. Journalists visit the site to fill the pages of their publications and to identify exhibitors they want to visit during the Show. Individual press releases receive almost 100 site visitors, with releases posted earlier getting the most views.

Mistake #7: Exaggerating the Facts. Journalists want facts, statistics and non-biased information. Avoid hyperbole and exaggeration and stick to the facts. Demonstrations are helpful and allow reporters to come to their own conclusions. Invite media to view demonstrations in your booth at a time when there are product specialists available to answer questions.

Exhibitors can learn more about public relations resources available at the SEMA Show by visiting the Exhibitor Services Manual, and contacting pr@sema.org to receive ongoing PR tips and updates for SEMA Show exhibitors.

By Kyle Cheng

While the past year has been disruptive to many sectors of the economy, the specialty-equipment industry has largely weathered the pandemic. Data in the new “SEMA State of the Industry—Spring 2021” report shows that while some companies saw sales declines, the majority saw growth over the past year. Some, especially manufacturers, even report record sales.

And that’s not surprising, as government data shows that consumers are spending more on their parts and their vehicles than ever before. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, retail sales at motor-vehicle and parts dealers in April 2021 hit $139.5 billion—its highest level on record. Despite the pandemic, consumers continue to work on their cars.

The industry is equally optimistic for the future as well. Most companies expect sales growth over the coming year as the United States returns to more normalcy.

To learn more about the current state of the specialty-equipment industry and outlook for the rest of 2021, download the new “SEMA State of the Industry—Spring 2021” report today at www.sema.org/research.

By Ashley Reyes

Get the facts about the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2021 (RPM Act). The bill was recently reintroduced to the U.S. representatives and protects Americans’ right to convert street vehicles into dedicated race cars and the motorsports-parts industry’s ability to sell products that enable racers to compete.

All SEMA members are invited to join a Facebook live chat, Wednesday, June 9, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) to hear from SEMA Vice President of Government and Legal Affairs Dan Ingber and SEMA Director of Congressional Affairs Eric Snyder as they discuss how the RPM Act impacts SEMA members and what the industry can do to support it.  

The RPM Act must be passed into law to confirm that it is legal to make emissions-related changes to a street vehicle for the purpose of converting it into a race car used exclusively in competition, and that it is legal to produce, market and install racing equipment. Tune into the Facebook live presented by the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) to get your questions answered, and if you haven’t already, write a letter to your members of Congress to support the bill by visiting www.sema.org/rpm.

Location: YEN Facebook page.

By Ashley Reyes

Mark your calendars for the following upcoming webinars and stay tuned to SEMA eNews as additional sessions are announced throughout the year. For a comprehensive library of upcoming and on-demand sessions that members can access anytime, visit www.sema.org/virtual-education.

Newly Added: Wednesday, June 9 – Facebook Live Chat featuring Dan Ingber and Eric Snyder

Track: Industry Talks

The Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2021 (RPM Act) is a bill that impacts the entire automotive aftermarket. Get the facts and answers to your questions during this live chat presented by the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN). SEMA representatives will explain why the bill is critical to protecting the right to convert street vehicles into dedicated racecars and the motorsports-parts industry’s ability to sell products that enable racers to compete.

Location: YEN Facebook page

Thursday, June 10 – State of the Industry: Where Are We Now?

Series: SEMA Industry Insight Series

Track: Trends and Research

During this live webinar, SEMA members will learn about the current state of the specialty-equipment industry and where the market is headed. Presented by SEMA Market Research, the webinar will feature new stats on specialty-equipment sales, hot and emerging markets, and an outlook and projections for 2021 and beyond.

Register here.

Wednesday, June 16 – ADAS Technologies: Real-World Systems & Trends

Series: ADAS Webinar Series  

As part 1 of the SEMA ADAS webinar series, this webinar will feature top industry experts as they provide a high-level look at current ADAS systems’ function, technology and trends. Participants will learn the basics of how these systems work, and how they are affected by various vehicle modifications or repairs.  

Register here.

Tuesday, June 22 – Everything but the Kitchen Sink of Job Hunting

Series: Perfecting Your Job Search Series, Powered by SBN

Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Learn how to stand out as a well-rounded candidate beyond your resume and interview. Featuring Maru Trevizo, vice president of human resources at SEMA, this webinar will cover how to successfully leverage attire, follow up, recommendations and networking to land a desired job position. Participants will have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned through interactive breakouts.

Register here.

Wednesday, June 30 – ADAS Technologies: Making Sense of Simulation, Testing and Calibration

Series: ADAS Webinar Series

As part 2 of the SEMA ADAS webinar series, this webinar will feature top service providers in the ADAS simulation, testing and calibration spaces. Participants will learn what resources are available in the marketplace to help SEMA members develop and install parts safely while maintaining OEM functionality of the ADAS system.  

Register here.

Newly Added: Wednesday, July 14 – ADAS Technologies: How to Navigate Product Development

Series: ADAS Webinar Series

During the last session of the three-part ADAS Webinar Series, attendees will hear case studies from leading aftermarket manufacturers that have successfully developed and launched products for ADAS-equipped vehicles. Participants will learn the steps they took to understand the systems, design compatible parts and validate the functionality of all OEM features.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

Available when you need them, where you need them; SEMA’s On-Demand Virtual Education library includes dozens of recorded sessions that SEMA members can access anytime, anywhere.  

Below are newly added and popular recordings that are available. For a complete list of sessions and registration information for upcoming webinars, visit www.sema.org/virtual-education.

SEMA Industry Insight Series
The Growing Diversity of the Light Truck-Market, Powered by TORA
Truck and off-road professionals will be able to make more informed, strategic business decisions using new research on the vehicle landscape and trends facing the market for pickups, SUVs, CUVs and vans. Find out where sales are shifting toward and how this may impact aftermarket sales.

Team Management Series, Powered by SBN
Reducing Micromanagement and Increasing Employee Self Sufficiency
Learn about the dangers of micromanagement and how to increase employee self-sufficiency. During this webinar, Allison Harding from Vintage Air is joined by one of her personal mentors, Christine Ashmore from Morgan Stanley, as she shares tips for improving efficiency and productivity within work departments.

Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, Powered by WTC
Preparing for National Tire Safety Week
National Tire Safety Week, a consumer tire safety awareness campaign by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), will take place June 28–July 4. Listen in as experts share important information that tire companies can use to participate in the campaign, prepare their staff and marketing in advance, and educate consumers on proper tire care and maintenance.

Track: Industry Segments, powered by SEMA Councils and Networks
More Than Just Jeeping: Other Ways People Go Off-Road
While Jeeps continue to dominate the off-road market, the growing popularity of overlanding and related outdoor activities represents a huge opportunity for companies to expand their selection and grow their businesses. Learn about the evolving landscape of the off-road market, the different ways people are going off road, and what related products businesses may want to consider.

By Maurice O’Connell

The 2021 SEMA Show Priority Space Selection begins June 7, and ends Wednesday, June 23. It will include more than 1,700 companies selecting space for their displays at the Show in November.

SEMA sales, Show and finance departments will work in tandem from the offices in Diamond Bar, California, to assist exhibitors with their booth selection, address questions, provide assistance and receive deposit payments.

Booth selection order is based on seniority, and exhibitors will be notified of their date and time to choose their space. Within that hour, a SEMA sales representative will call the exhibitor’s main contact to select the booth location.

Exhibitors are encouraged to be prepared by planning ahead one hour to view the Show’s online floorplan for a look at each exhibit hall. The floorplan is updated every 30 minutes, and exhibitors can watch as the Show takes shape and monitor the desired hall or section for a general idea of where they want to display.

To change the name and key contact for booth selection, submit a proxy form advising SEMA Show management that the exhibitor would like an alternative number called, or visit the “Reserve Your Booth” section on the SEMA Show Exhibitor page.

Exhibitors with any questions should reach out to the SEMA Show Department for assistance at 909-396-0289 or semashow@sema.org.

The 2021 SEMA Show will be held November 2–5 in Las Vegas. Reserve a booth space now by visiting www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.