By SEMA Editors

With more than 9.4 million pre-’90 vehicles estimated on the road today, more consumers and businesses report that they are modifying classic cars with modern parts and technology. While a significant number of consumers and businesses continue to restore classic cars to their original factory specifications, a growing number are customizing the vehicles to include upgraded engines with enhanced performance, increased efficiency, and modern-day comforts (a practice often referred to as “restomodding”).

The “Classic Cars, Modern Markets” report from SEMA Market Research reveals new data on market sizing, purchasing habits, and vehicle usage of classic car vehicle owners and explores how modern consumers feel about, work on, and engage with their fellow enthusiasts about classic vehicles.

“Classic cars and trucks have been a key part of the specialty automotive aftermarket since it began, and for many people who own older vehicles, fixing them up or modifying them into something new is a passion project that can span decades,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “This report will help businesses understand this unique customer base, how to reach them, and where the current and future opportunities are for the vintage and automotive restoration aftermarket.”

The report, which researched classic car owners and businesses, found:

• A growing number of businesses (62%) see restomodding on the rise and, on average, say that half the work they do on classics is part of a restomod job.
• Younger classic car owners are more likely to seek a restomod build, with 38% of owners under 45 going for a restomod, compared to 22% of older owners.
• Owners tend to view a classic as a long-term investment, with 44% saying they want to keep the vehicle forever.
• While 50% of owners use their classic vehicles for running errands, classic vehicles are much less likely to be used as commuter vehicles with 15% of classic car owners doing so (compared to 64% of the general population).
• 80% percent of classic owners are comfortable doing at least some of the work on their vehicle on their own.
• Unrestored ‘60s musclecars and pony cars remain popular barn finds among collectors, but the emerging market for ‘70s and ‘80s vehicles represent an important opportunity.
• Despite loving old-school cars, classic owners are not shy about going online to learn and shop for parts—especially younger owners.

To learn more about the current state of the classic vehicle market and where the opportunity is for your business, download the “Classic Cars, Modern Markets” report for free today at www.sema.org/market-research.

By SEMA Editors

Businesses in the racing industry can now secure their booth space for the 2021 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show, in what promises to be a can’t-miss event for the motorsports industry. The level of excitement continues to grow, as racers, manufacturers, and buyers look forward to getting back together in Indianapolis, December 9–11, 2021.

“We know there is a lot of demand for the PRI Trade Show. And while many in the motorsports industry have done well these past 12 months, they still very much need this face-to-face interaction that’s so important to doing business," said Karin Davidson, PRI Trade Show Director. “PRI is fully committed to an in-person Show in 2021, one that may very well be the best and most important PRI Show ever."

Working closely with the city of Indianapolis and local officials, PRI is committed to ensuring that the 2021 PRI Show is as safe and successful as possible. 

“Being in front of our customers and dealers with the ability to talk with them face to face at the PRI Show has always been extremely important,” said Brian Cox, Vortech Superchargers content and brand marketing manager. “It not only allows Vortech Superchargers to form new relationships with those attending the Trade Show, it also enables us to grow and strengthen existing relationships.”

The PRI Show provides exhibitors with unprecedented access to thousands of attendees—professional race teams, retail shops, warehouse distributors, e-commerce sites, engine builders, fabricators, dealers, installers, jobbers and media—in the market for the hottest parts, equipment and services for all types of auto racing.

“The 2021 PRI Show is where pent-up customer demand will meet a year’s worth of new product innovation, all in one building,” said Bob Davis of Sunnen Products Co. global communications manager. “The business and networking Sunnen conducts at the Show and the media exposure our products receive is unparalleled, and it will help set us up for more success in 2022.”

For the first time ever, exhibitors in 2021 will be able to help PRI build, promote, and protect the racing community by becoming a PRI Business Member. In addition to receiving a suite of benefits, including discounted booth space, Business Members will actively support PRI’s Government Affairs team in Washington, D.C., as it works to safeguard the industry’s interests at the federal, state and local levels. Exhibiting companies can join PRI Business Membership seamlessly while reserving their booth. Visit PerformanceRacing.com/Membership for more information.

“For years, the racing industry has relied on the PRI Trade Show to build their businesses, and now PRI Membership will provide the industry with year-round support through legal resources, education programs, market research reports, and more,” said PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer. “By coming together and joining forces, we will have a stronger collective voice and be able to better protect the racing community.”

Now in its 33rd year, the PRI Show returns to Indianapolis following last year’s postponement. Since then, the city of Indianapolis has been a nationwide leader in the safe reopening of in-person gatherings, with the entire NCAA basketball tournament taking place in Indiana for the first time ever this month.

“As a city dedicated to motorsports racing, Indianapolis’ team of experts and professionals is committed to welcoming participants at the 2021 PRI Trade Show,” said Leonard Hoops, Visit Indy president and CEO. “We are proud of the progress we’ve made by installing hospital-grade filtration systems throughout the Indiana Convention Center, safely hosting more than 50 live events and more than 130,000 visitors to the city since July 2020, and being awarded both the GBAC STAR Accreditation and the NAFA Clean Air Award.” 

Specific safety guidelines and recommendations for the 2021 PRI Trade Show will be announced at a later date.

To apply for booth space to the 2021 PRI Trade Show, visit PerformanceRacing.com/Exhibit or call 949-499-5413. Companies that apply before May 28 will be included in the initial floor plan.

By SEMA Show Management

SEMA is on track to deliver an exciting in-person SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) November 2-5, 2021. With exhibits included in the LVCC’s newly constructed West Hall, the entire SEMA Show floorplan will be optimized and offers room for new features and enhancements for an improved overall attendee experience.

“The industry is eager to reconnect,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The return to an in-person SEMA Show gives resellers a chance to engage with an amazing gathering of suppliers, new products, stunning vehicle builds and networking opportunities. We are excited to provide our industry with a world-class marketplace that will help them grow and expand their businesses.”

This year’s Show will include exhibit space in the Las Vegas Convention Center’s newly constructed West Hall, a 1.4-million square feet facility completed in January during the COVID-19 shutdown. The new facility will house exhibitors from the Restyling & Car Care Accessories, Powersports & Utility Vehicles, and Truck, SUV & Off-Road sections. The realignment is one element of a comprehensive plan to enhance the entire attendee experience, connecting exhibitors with buyers throughout the four-day event with engaging and interactive features and activities. Details on additional resources, including a new online component that focuses on manufacturers, new products, feature vehicles, and educational resources, will be announced as they are finalized in the coming weeks.

With eight months to go until the event, nearly 1,000 exhibitors have already confirmed their participation in the 2021 SEMA Show. Buyers will begin to secure credentials as registration opens in May. SEMA also continues to work closely with the convention center authorities and the state of Nevada, where large-scale events are opening up.

“Demand from the industry to connect in a trade show environment is very strong,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention Center are on a great path to hosting live events, and we are steadfast in connecting it all to deliver the best SEMA Show ever.”

Reserve booth space for the 2021 SEMA Show at www.SEMAshow.com/exhibitor.

For complete information about the 2021 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Scott Lowe, president of High Xpectations, is the latest SEMA Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN) member to share his insight on how his company has pivoted during the pandemic and utilized technology to keep business moving forward.

Find out how High Xpectations, an automotive restyling and custom build shop, is assisting its community during the pandemic while generating a yearly cost savings, and what technology tools the company has leaned on to service its customers virtually.  

SEMA: How has your company pivoted during the pandemic?    

Scott Lowe: We had seen a downward trend in the custom space over the last few years and have been branching out in a new direction. Due to the pandemic, folks have been hit hard with a lack of income and are struggling to keep food on the table or lights on in their homes.

We have found ourselves in a situation where we can help others by offering a lower-cost alternative to standard maintenance and repairs. We have partnered with a few local shops to offer these low-cost repairs in different areas around Metro Detroit, making it easier for the folks in need to get in and have the necessary repairs done at their convenience. While restyling and custom work will always be our focal point, we are happy to assist those in our community with whatever life throws at them.

SEMA: What technology tools, new or old, have you leaned on recently?    

SL: Our day-to-day interaction had to change a bit as our community was forced to stay at home and limit exposure the best they can. While we are an essential business, we needed to adapt to less face-to-face interaction. We found ourselves utilizing Zoom, MS Teams and even Google Meet with our customers when possible.

SEMA: What new trends have you noticed with sales and marketing?    

SL: Sales and marketing trends have been geared toward the work-from-home workforce. While not everyone can do so, everything is moving in that direction.

SEMA: What, if any, changes in business do you feel will outlive the pandemic?    

SL: Our business will always be an in-person, hands-on requirement. However, our support and clerical workers will continue to work from home. This will generate a yearly cost savings allowing us to bring in more technicians who can do the work.

Fill out this form for a chance to be featured in the next ETTN member insight. By sharing your experiences, you can inspire and motivate other members to learn new tips and ideas. You will also have the opportunity to be featured on ETTN’s social media and in SEMA eNews.

By Ashley Reyes

Which industry pioneer deserves to be recognized? Countless leaders, innovators, creators and enthusiasts have contributed greatly to the automotive aftermarket—many who are already recognized in the SEMA Hall of Fame.

The SEMA Hall of Fame is seeking recommendations on who to honor and induct into the established group. SEMA members are asked to nominate individuals for the SEMA Hall of Fame by providing details at www.sema.org/hof before the deadline, Friday, March 19, at 5:00 p.m. (PDT).  

For a complete list of current SEMA Hall of Fame inductees, visit www.sema.org/hof.  

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) named BedWood as the council’s latest member spotlight company. Company director of business development Bradley Boocher shares what inspired BedWood’s founder and CEO Jeff Major to launch a product that would ultimately set a new standard across the restoration marketplace, and what projects the company is working on in 2021.  

SEMA: Tell us the story of your business. How did you start?

Bradley Boocher: When company CEO and founder Jeff Major was building his own project truck, it was difficult for him to find the quality bed parts necessary to restore the wood bed and achieve the desired appearance. Major quickly realized that, like him, many other enthusiasts were also seeking the same products. It was then that BedWood was launched, providing a choice in woods coupled with genuine quality standards and customer service for which the southern United States is known.

SEMA: What was the company’s breakthrough moment?

BB: When shopping around for alternatives, Major was told he had to buy what was available at the time. That night, laying in bed, he realized that you could customize every square inch of a classic truck except the largest flattest surface. He then set out on a mission to bring choices to the bed of classic trucks. By using nothing but premium materials, BedWood began to set a new standard across the restoration marketplace.

SEMA: Tell us about the business now in 2021 and what projects the company is working on.

BB: Business is booming in 2021. BedWood continues to innovate the bed of classic trucks by focusing on the RetroLiner. This product allows the customization to any factory metal bed floor by giving it the classic look of wood, without the cutting and drilling into the bed itself.

SEMA: Tell us about a particular project, product or build you are proud of.

BB: BedWood is very proud to announce our vertical integration by making the highest-quality metal parts in-house, to complement our wide range of premium wood species.

SEMA: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket, particularly in the restoration segment?

BB: Find and follow your passion then hold on and enjoy the ride.

Fill out an ARMO member spotlight form to highlight how your company is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on ARMO’s and media, SEMA eNews and future ARMO member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

As planning continues for the 2021 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show, organizers are accepting speaker proposals for the motorsports trade event taking place on December 9–11, 2021, in Indianapolis. Now in its 33rd year, the PRI Show is the world’s premier racing and performance trade event, attracting race teams, retail shops, warehouse distributors, e-commerce sites, engine builders, fabricators, dealers, installers, jobbers and media throughout the industry.

With education as a cornerstone of the event, the PRI education program provides thought-provoking, forward-thinking sessions that help participants take their businesses and careers to the next level. They are designed to provide best practices in motorsports business and technical education for professionals and grassroots operators alike. Topics of greatest interest for 2021 include, but are not limited to:

• Sales and Marketing
• Business Operations
• Digital Communications
• Race Track Management
• Brand Building
• Hiring/Employee Relations
• Engine Technology
• Suspension/Setup
• Machining
• Tuning

Speaker proposals for the 2021 PRI Trade Show must be submitted by April 4. Suggestions for topics and/or speakers are also encouraged and can be submitted here. For more details, contact Gary Vigil, senior manager of professional development, at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738; or Dan Schechner at dans@performanceracing.com or 949-373-9228.

By Juan Torres

The fifth annual “FOX Sports SEMA Special” TV show will premiere on FOX Sports 2 (FS2), Thursday, March 18, at 5:00 p.m. (PDT).

Produced by the High Impact Television (HIT) crew, the program includes a visit to the SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California, where host Tore Dietrich went behind the scenes to discover what the SEMA Garage is all about. Dietreich talked to SEMA Vice President of OEM & Product Development Mike Spagnola about the different SEMA Garage services available to SEMA members, and to SEMA Board Member/4 Wheel Parts Senior Marketing Manager Kathryn Reinhardt about her company’s use of the SEMA Garage to develop products.

“We appreciate the opportunity to share with the FOX Sports viewers how the industry develops the great products that allow them to improve and enhance their cars, trucks and SUVs,” said Spagnola. “The High Impact crew did great job highlighting the tools and resources that are available at the SEMA Garage, and how manufacturers use the tools to develop products more efficiently, effectively and at a lower cost.”

“We have a great show for FOX Sports viewers, as we visited SEMA‘s SoCal headquarters and testing facility to see what’s new in the automotive aftermarket," said Dietrich, president of HIT. “We are proud to be able to give the viewer a look at some awesome companies, brands, products, vehicles and trends.”

The SEMA special premieres Thursday, March 18, at 5:00 p.m. (PDT). Viewers are advised to check their local listings for details and re-airings.

By SEMA Editors

Platinum status represents SDC manufacturers that have achieved the pinnacle of product data by putting in the extra effort to provide resellers with the most complete data sets available.

ORACLE Lighting
Vector-PRO-Series Full LED Grill

The ORACLE Lighting Vector Series Grill for the Jeep Wrangler JK is the first full-featured replacement grill with integrated LED light emitters for Low Beam, High Beam, as well as a Dynamic LED DRL. This unique design is equipped with an array of application-specific LED lighting features and has the aggressive styling and rugged durability that Jeep owners demand. The new PRO-SERIES revision of the Vector Grill includes major improvements to the quality and durability of the LED DRL Modules. These modules are now robotically sealed to create an Ingress Protection Rating of IP68 which will keep moisture out of your fixtures even from exposure to pressurized water spray and brief underwater submersions. The DRL modules are now mounted with hardware rather than adhesive to make these parts easier to remove for grill painting and maintenance.

Website: www.oraclelights.com
PN: 5817-PRO

Road Comforts
Custom Fit Floor Mat for '14-'19 GMC Sierra

Road Comforts Floor Mats are 100% custom fit and laser-measured and precision-engineered for an exact fit to your vehicle's floor. Road Comforts trademarked Elastober compound is odorless by design and environmentally friendly. Engineered with Deepgroove channels for smarter liquid retention and raised heel pads for maximum comfort. Staysafe retention and anti-slip systems are easy to install.

Website: www.roadcomforts.com
PN: 3115A

XFORCE
Non-Polished Stainless Steel 3-Inch Cat-Back Exhaust System

The Hyundai Veloster N Varex Cat Back system features the company's patented Varex and Smartbox valve technology, giving you the ultimate in sound and control. Cruise in quiet mode and relax or hear that growl, crackle and pop the N is famous for. This means that you can select precise valve positioning from a 0% to 100% open or closed range and get access to a Geo Mode so you can get the right sound at the right place.  No more easing off the throttle when you get home late at night or bothering the neighbors with early morning cold starts; simply set a region and preferred output using our app and SmartBox will remember your settings and automatically apply the desired output as you get in range. All Cat Back Exhaust Systems ship standard with a Polished Stainless tip, however two optional tips are also available. Pick from either a subtle Shadow Black, or stand out from the crowd with a visually stunning Titanium Blue tip kit.

Website: www.xforceusa.com  
PN: ES-HY30N-VMKSB-CBS

By SEMA Editors

Submissions are being accepted for SEMA-member companies to participate in the 2021 Jeep®, Ram® and Dodge® Project Vehicle Program. Companies are invited to submit proposals based on the criteria outlined below. Applicants need to meet all of the requirements outlined or the submission will be removed from consideration.

Chosen companies will be selected by Stellantis from the total number of eligible submissions to take part in the program.

Interested companies must submit a detailed marketing plan as part of the submission process. If selected, each participant must actively promote, at its sole expense, the project vehicle according to the Stellantis-approved marketing plan.

The Stellantis/Mopar® booth at the 2021 SEMA Show will highlight the following

vehicles in addition to other vehicles from its existing lineup:

• Wagoneer
• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe
• Jeep Gladiator
• Ram 1500 TRX
• Ram 2500 Mega Cab
• Ram 2500 Power Wagon
• Ram 3500 Chassis Cab
• Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody

Information on Jeep, Ram and Dodge Vehicles can be found at:

• www.jeep.com
• www.ramtrucks.com
• www.dodge.com

Stellantis/Jeep, Ram and Dodge Project Vehicle Program Criteria

• Open to SEMA-member company manufacturers, designers, customizers and/or retailers.
• Submissions for multiple vehicles will be permitted, but does not increase odds of being selected.
• Submissions must be submitted to: submissions@moparbuilds.com and must be received by 11:59 PM, April 8, 2021.

Each company requesting vehicles must be willing to enter into an agreement with FCA US LLC requiring the company to:

• Feature the vehicle in a booth at the 2021 Las Vegas SEMA Show
• Register and keep the vehicle in the participant’s name for the duration of the agreement
• Use the provided Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts accessory products as specified and provided by Stellantis.
• Purchase and maintain $5 million in general liability insurance, $5 million in automotive liability insurance, $1 million employer liability and demonstrate workers’ compensation coverage; an umbrella policy may be used to achieve coverage limits.
• Enter into an agreement with FCA US LLC agreeing to dispose of the vehicle at the end of the agreement, and provide proof of such disposal.
• Commit to feature the vehicle with the Jeep, Ram, or Dodge logo intact and visible
• Make vehicles available to Stellantis or its Dealers for display.

Companies must submit written quarterly status reports for a period of 18 months, as specified in the contract, detailing:

• Modifications to the vehicle.
• Events (including dates, location and type of event).
• Media exposure (originals or color copies).
• Company print and digital advertising featuring the vehicle.
• Social media exposure with statistics.
• A copy of the project vehicle registration.

Submission Requirements

Step 1: Project Overview/Summary—Must be Received by 11:59 p.m. (EDT), April 8, 2021.

E-mail a one-page project summary with the following information to submissions@moparbuilds.com

• Vehicle/theme.
• Vehicle modifications.
• Promotional plan, including the events at which the vehicle would be displayed (in addition to the SEMA Show); social media plan (please include your potential exposure/reach with your followers).
• Your proposed vehicle-display location at the 2021 SEMA Show. Please also include what other vehicles will be featured within that display.

Step 2: Email Detailed Project Proposal to submissions@moparbuilds.com by 11:59 p.m. (EDT) April 30, 2021.
Include: all detail that supports the one-page project summary on company letterhead, color rendering(s) and past project vehicles examples. If the interior is to be significantly modified, an interior sketch should also be included.

Selection Criteria:
Stellantis will determine the number of participants in its sole discretion. The participants will be selected from the total number of submissions received. Participants will be selected according to the above-mentioned and following criteria:

• Originality.
• Demonstrating an understanding of the vehicle’s position in the market, and complementing that position.
• The proposed marketing plan.