Audi and Porsche are sharing development of a new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, and one of the first Audi models to use the new underpinnings will be the Q6 E-tron SUV. Our spies caught a prototype of the new model in Ingolstadt.

Confirmed for launch in 2022 by Audi CEO Markus Duessman, the new model will sit between the imminent Q4 E-tron, which uses the VW Group’s MEB platform, and the fullsized E-tron flagship, which is based off a modified version of the MLB SUV architecture. It will be built in Ingolstadt, where Audi is also building a new battery production facility to serve its expanding EV lineup.

It will serve as a sister car to the promised electric version of the Porsche Macan—in much the same way as Audi’s new E-tron GT sedan shares the bulk of its make-up with Porsche’s Taycan. As was the case with those two cars, the Porsche will arrive several months before the Audi.

The PPE architecture—based on the J1 platform used for the Taycan and E-tron GT—is designed for fullsized luxury models from the two firms, both in low-slung and SUV forms.

Porsche has confirmed that the current, combustion-engined Macan will initially remain on sale alongside the all-new electric car, paving the way for Audi to keep the same-sized Q5 in dealerships beyond the launch of the Q6 E-tron.

In terms of styling, this sighting of a prototype suggests heavy influence from the fullsized E-tron, with the Q6 adopting a cab-backward silhouette, gently sloping roof line and bulky rear arches. Though it will be mechanically identical to the Macan EV, the two will share little in the way of design cues.

The Q6 E-tron will have a more obvious performance focus than the current combustion car, given the nature of its PPE architecture. The most powerful variant, likely badged RS in line with Audi's plan to electrify its performance sub-division, should send around 590 hp to both axles, though the PPE platform has been designed with just a rear-mounted electric motor as standard.

The PPE platform also has 800 volts charging functionality built in, which means the Macan EV and Q6 E-tron will be able to charge at speeds of up to 350 kW. Expect a range in excess of 315 miles, given the entry-level E-tron GT is quoted to be capable of 300 miles per charge.

The Q6 E-tron will offer a dynamic advantage over MEB-based electric cars from Audi and Volkswagen, too, courtesy of inbuilt torque-vectoring and rear-axle steering functionality, though these will likely be reserved for the more expensive performance options.

It remains unclear whether this new electric SUV will arrive before an A4-sized electric sedan that Audi first previewed in 2019 and has been described by company bosses as the most important Audi to use the PPE platform.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpideBilde

Audi and Porsche are sharing development of a new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, and one of the first Audi models to use the new underpinnings will be the Q6 E-tron SUV. Our spies caught a prototype of the new model in Ingolstadt.

Confirmed for launch in 2022 by Audi CEO Markus Duessman, the new model will sit between the imminent Q4 E-tron, which uses the VW Group’s MEB platform, and the fullsized E-tron flagship, which is based off a modified version of the MLB SUV architecture. It will be built in Ingolstadt, where Audi is also building a new battery production facility to serve its expanding EV lineup.

It will serve as a sister car to the promised electric version of the Porsche Macan—in much the same way as Audi’s new E-tron GT sedan shares the bulk of its make-up with Porsche’s Taycan. As was the case with those two cars, the Porsche will arrive several months before the Audi.

The PPE architecture—based on the J1 platform used for the Taycan and E-tron GT—is designed for fullsized luxury models from the two firms, both in low-slung and SUV forms.

Porsche has confirmed that the current, combustion-engined Macan will initially remain on sale alongside the all-new electric car, paving the way for Audi to keep the same-sized Q5 in dealerships beyond the launch of the Q6 E-tron.

In terms of styling, this sighting of a prototype suggests heavy influence from the fullsized E-tron, with the Q6 adopting a cab-backward silhouette, gently sloping roof line and bulky rear arches. Though it will be mechanically identical to the Macan EV, the two will share little in the way of design cues.

The Q6 E-tron will have a more obvious performance focus than the current combustion car, given the nature of its PPE architecture. The most powerful variant, likely badged RS in line with Audi's plan to electrify its performance sub-division, should send around 590 hp to both axles, though the PPE platform has been designed with just a rear-mounted electric motor as standard.

The PPE platform also has 800 volts charging functionality built in, which means the Macan EV and Q6 E-tron will be able to charge at speeds of up to 350 kW. Expect a range in excess of 315 miles, given the entry-level E-tron GT is quoted to be capable of 300 miles per charge.

The Q6 E-tron will offer a dynamic advantage over MEB-based electric cars from Audi and Volkswagen, too, courtesy of inbuilt torque-vectoring and rear-axle steering functionality, though these will likely be reserved for the more expensive performance options.

It remains unclear whether this new electric SUV will arrive before an A4-sized electric sedan that Audi first previewed in 2019 and has been described by company bosses as the most important Audi to use the PPE platform.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpideBilde

By Ashley Reyes

Representing SEMA and serving as leaders for the automotive aftermarket industry, the results for newly elected Council and Network Select Committee members have been announced.

Comprised of automotive aftermarket professionals who are passionate about the advancement of the industry, select committee volunteers work alongside industry professionals from different market segments to provide valuable programs, events, education opportunities and other resources for the council or network membership. While councils work to identify related business goals, issues and challenges for member companies in a particular market segment, networks are a platform for individuals within a SEMA-member company who share a common interest or characteristic.

Newly elected members who will serve a 2021–2023 term are listed below.

For the full list of select committee members and incumbents, visit each Council and Network’s respective homepage.

SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)
No new ARMO select committee members. Visit the ARMO homepage for a list of incumbents.

SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
Holly Chunn, Driven Lighting Group
Tiffanie Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting
Ann Swayka, Air Pro Diagnostics

SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)
Andrew Mernone, HP Tuners
Tony Rimas, asTech-Repairify Inc.

SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)
Kris Bluntzer, Empire Garage

SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC)
Brian Bohlander, Old World Industries
Brian LeBarron, Fluidampr

SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
Ron Leslie, Katzkin
Courtney Pahlke, Top Coverage Ltd.
Pam Smith, Automotive Toys & Accessories

SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
Jenna Jefferies, PerTronix Performance Brands
Tara Thompson, Dixie 4 Wheel Drive

SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC)
Ryan Fuller, Standards Testing Laboratories
Dan Guyer, Keystone Automotive Operations
Brett Kinsfather, Shopmonkey
Alexander Martinez, SD Wheel/Enthusiast Enterprises
John Rastetter, Tire Rack
Heather Tausch, Mickey Thompson Tires

SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN)
Arun Coumar, Driven Performance Advisors
Dan LaRou, Chrome Enhancements/LKQ

To learn more about SEMA Councils and Networks and Select Committee volunteering, visit  www.sema.org/volunteer.

By Juan Torres

Attendee registration for the 2021 PRI Trade Show, scheduled for December 9–11, at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis, is now open at PRIShow.com/Attend.

Attendees will find nearly 1,000 exhibiting companies at the world’s premier business event for the auto-racing industry. Featuring the newest products and technology for all forms of motorsports, the 2021 PRI Trade Show is shaping up to be the best PRI Trade Show yet. New displays and opportunities to network face-to-face with the entire racing industry are just part of what make the PRI Trade Show so special every year.

“The 2021 PRI Trade Show will be instrumental in satisfying the racing industry's pent-up demand to conduct business and network face-to-face,” said Karin Davidson, PRI Trade Show director. “This year’s event will be the first opportunity for the entire motorsports community to come together under one roof in more than a year, making the 2021 PRI Trade Show a can't-miss event.”

The 2021 PRI Trade Show caters to professional race teams, retail shops, warehouse distributors, e-commerce sites, engine builders, fabricators, dealers, installers, jobbers, motorsports students and media who are seeking to learn about the hottest parts, equipment and services for motorsports and conduct business. Nearly two years’ worth of innovation and technology for all types of auto racing will be on display at this year’s Show.

Attendees will have unprecedented access to live demonstrations of equipment, including CNC machining centers, fabrication and welding equipment, parts cleaning systems, dynamometers and more, as well as many opportunities to network with industry leaders. Numerous conferences and seminars that are unique to the PRI Trade Show will offer unlimited business opportunities and provide invaluable insight on the latest technologies and how to apply them throughout the racing world.

Special features like Machinery Row and the Featured Products Showcase—with more event features to be announced in the near future—make PRI an essential event for anyone who wants to prepare for a successful 2022.

New for this year, PRI Trade Show registrants will have the opportunity to join the exclusive PRI Member community during the online application process. All registrants will be able to select their level of commitment and join the groundbreaking movement to protect and grow the racing industry.

“The PRI Membership Program unites the entire motorsports community to create a loud and collective voice for the racing industry,” said PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer. “By coming together, we ensure the industry continues to thrive and that we have the resources available to advocate on its behalf.”

PRI Membership is available to all racers, enthusiasts, builders, track operators, sanctioning bodies, businesses and enthusiasts who want to be part of the racing industry’s first-of-its-kind membership program. To learn more, visit PerformanceRacing.com/Membership.

By securing PRI Trade Show credentials early, attendees will ensure they receive their credentials before the Show—beginning in October—allowing them to bypass lines at the registration desk and save time on site.

To register for the 2021 PRI Trade Show, secure hotel reservations, and sign up for free business seminars, visit PRIShow.com/Attend.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Beginning July 19, California’s Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) will fail motor vehicles during their biennial “smog check” inspection if they are found to have software modifications not provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or approved through a California Air Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order (EO).

BAR, which has had the authority to implement such inspections since 2013, has been gathering information from inspected vehicle ECUs since 2015. The gathered information includes CAL-ID (equivalent to a file name), CVN (equivalent to a checksum), EO status, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This accumulated data is the basis upon which failure criteria will be determined. Disputed results will be referred to state-run Referee centers for further inspection.

SEMA is working with BAR to ensure that legally modified vehicles do not inadvertently fail inspection. During a meeting of the BAR Advisory Group on July 15, BAR staff expressed confidence that non-tuning ECU modifications, such as aftermarket wheel and tire calibrations, would not result in failed inspections. A recording of the meeting will be posted to the California Department of Consumer Affair’s YouTube channel in the coming days.

BAR anticipates approximately 5-10 vehicles will fail each day for illegally modified software. For context, BAR inspects approximately 1 million vehicles each month as part of the smog-check program. Roughly 10,000 of these inspections result in failures due to problems other than modified software.

SEMA encourages its members that manufacture performance-related products, including ECU modifications, to obtain CARB EOs to ensure compliance with emissions regulations.

For questions, please contact Peter Treydte at petert@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

The Petersen Automotive Museum will choose one early-stage company to join its three-month, mentorship-driven incubator, investing up to $25,000 and providing hands-on mentorship and access to the Petersen Network. The Petersen Business Incubator Program is anchored on developing female-led startups in the automotive sector. With only 23.6% of motor vehicle jobs held by women in 2019, the program is designed to empower and develop women in the automotive industry.

The advisory committee includes Alex Parker, CMO and principal at Redline Detection; Diane Parker, vice president, Historic Vehicle Association; Dr. Sabrina Kay, CEO of Fremont Private Investments, chancellor of Fremont College; Jasmine Gonzalez, group services director, Petersen Automotive Museum; Sarah Lassek, senior vice president, experiences, Omaze; and Nikki Riedmiller, PR and media relations director, Kahn Media.

Businesses must be located in California, have less than five employees and support or be related to the automotive industry in one of the following categories:

• Distribution
• Publishing
• Interior Design
• Alternative Fuels
• Accessories
• Rideshare
• Rental/Travel
• Product Development
• Marketing/Advertising
• Manufacturing
• Technology
• Apparel/Fashion
• Services
• Design

Applications open twice a year and typically stay open for eight weeks. After applications close, they are reviewed for about four weeks with the goal of notifying the final group of companies accepted within eight weeks from the application closing date.

Applications are reviewed by a selection committee of six industry leaders.

Requirements:

• Petersen Automotive Museum Incubator Application
• California-based company
• Established company – LLC,  S-Corp, C-Corp

Business Plan must include the following:

• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• Product/Service
• Target Market
• Industry Analysis
• Financial Plan

Once accepted, the team meets with the Petersen’s mentorship team once a week. During the first two weeks, you will develop a three-month custom timeline to address your goals. This involves analyzing your company's strengths and weaknesses and spending time in the different museum departments to develop your business and prepare it for its next financial milestone.

Recipient will receive:

• A $25,000 investment
• Three-month mentorship program
• Perks from Petersen Partners

Apply now.

By Ashley Reyes

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

Tuesday, July 20 – 2021 SEMA Market Report Webinar
Series: SEMA Industry Insights Series

During this live webinar, the SEMA Market Research team will present highlights from the recently released “2021 SEMA Market Report.” Filled with updated stats from the 2020 calendar year, the report includes key trends and insights on industry sales, consumer behavior, trends and more. Researchers will explain what the data means and help businesses understand how 2020 affected the industry and where the current opportunities are.

Register here.

Wednesday, July 21 – YEN Live Chat Featuring Jim Liaw
Track: Industry Talks

Here’s your chance to chat with Jim Liaw, co-founder of Formula DRIFT. During this Live Chat presented by the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), attendees will be able to ask about how the premier United States drifting series came to be, what other motorsports events he’s helped organize and what he was thinking when the first Formula DRIFT event debuted to a sell-out crowd of 10,000 in 2003—causing traffic jams on the streets outside the track and culture shock to those in the stands. You’ll also be able to find out what he has planned for 2021 and why he supports the RPM Act.

Location: YEN Facebook page  

Thursday, July 22 – How to Keep Productivity at a Maximum
Series: Team Management Series, Powered by SBN
Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Having a long to-do list can feel overwhelming, and oftentimes, it can be a struggle to even know where to start. During this webinar presented by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), managers and supervisors will learn solid tips and habits for increasing productivity throughout the day, how to identify and avoid challenges that impede productivity and various goal-setting methods for effectively managing time.

Register here.

Tuesday, July 27 – Effectively Managing Conflict
Series: Sharpen Your Soft Skills, Powered by SBN
Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Knowing how to manage conflict can save a team from unnecessary work disruptions, decreased productivity, project failure and even termination. During this webinar presented by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), employees and managers will learn common methods for how to manage challenging situations, whether it be manager to employee, employee to employee, manager to manager or manager to supervisor.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days is returning to the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) Nationals, August 5–6, in Louisville, Kentucky, providing event visitors with the chance to participate in high-powered education sessions featuring top manufacturers in the hot-rod and auto-restoration segments.

HRIA Education Days is a popular component of the NSRA Nationals where manufacturers share details on their products and systems through face-to-face educational seminars. Attendees will learn valuable tips, connect directly with the manufacturers and get educated on the manufacturer’s product line.  

“From the basics of performance air conditioning to paint correction and wheel and tire fitment tips, this year’s session lineup will cover a wide range of topics over a span of two days—all in one place,” said Jim Skelly, HRIA council director. “We are excited to connect with the industry and look forward to providing this valuable resource to attendees of the NSRA Nationals event.”

For the full list of Education Days sessions and to RSVP, click here.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Congressional support for the bipartisan Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2021 (RPM Act), H.R. 3281, continues to expand as racers and members of the motorsports’ parts industry write their members of Congress and ask them to cosponsor the bill. The RPM Act now has 82 bipartisan cosponsors, as five members of the U.S. House of Representatives recently agreed to publicly support the bill, including U.S. Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Austin Scott (R-GA), Jay Obernolte (R-CA), Andy Barr (R-KY) and Michael Cloud (R-TX).

While the House has been out of session during the last two weeks, members of Congress have been getting out in the communities they represent to meet with their constituents. Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC), the lead sponsor of the RPM Act, recently visited SRI Performance in Mooresville, North Carolina, which sells racing and street performance products. During the visit, Rep. McHenry spoke with Greg Fornelli, owner of SRI Performance; Ralph Sheheen, owner of Speed Sport magazine; and David Miller, executive director of the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), about the importance of passing the RPM Act.

“It was great to visit SRI Performance,” said Rep. McHenry. “SRI is a leader in providing racing parts for the motorsports industry. Racing has a long and storied history in North Carolina and is an important part of our economy. Recently, I was proud to reintroduce the RPM Act to protect grassroots motorsports and industries that support them.”

The RPM Act must be enacted into law to guarantee your right to modify street cars, trucks and motorcycles into dedicated race vehicles, and ensure that industry can offer parts that enable racers to compete. It is imperative that lawmakers continue to be reminded of the importance of passing the RPM Act. Click here to see the current list of RPM Act cosponsors, and don’t forget to send a letter to your U.S. Representative asking them to support the bill and fight for it to become law.

For details, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) members and businesses in the hot-rod market will connect at the Kentucky Expo Center/National Street Rod Association Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, for an in-person membership meeting taking place, August 4, from 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. (EDT).

This meeting is open to current HRIA members and businesses in the hot-rod market that are interested in learning more involved with the council. The HRIA Select Committee will be on site to share updates on the council’s latest initiatives, as well as answer questions from attendees on what resources are available.  

HRIA members attending National Street Rod Association (NSRA) Nationals are encouraged to RSVP here.