By SEMA News Editors

Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Jr. Among Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2024 Inductees

Officials have announced the Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees will be honored during the induction and awards ceremony on Thursday, September 19, in Detroit. Induction into the Automotive Hall of Fame is reserved for noteworthy individuals whose efforts helped shape the automotive and mobility marketplace. 

The Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees are Bill Ford, Dr. Betsy Ancker-Johnson, John James Sr., Wendell Scott, Vivek Sehgal and Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Vic Edelbrock Jr. of Edelbrock Performance.

"Once again, this year's class of inductees highlights the breadth of contributions individuals have had on this industry and all that it influences," said Sarah Cook, president of the Automotive Hall of Fame. "This diverse group of trailblazing innovators and leaders have played a critical role in shaping our industry, and we couldn't be more pleased to recognize their achievements and welcome them into the Hall of Fame."

For inductee biographies, see below. For more information, visit automotivehalloffame.org.

• Bill Ford: Bill Ford has played a pivotal role in advancing the industry while positioning an iconic, global, 120-year-old family company for the future. Since becoming executive chair 25 years ago, he has led Ford Motor Company through periods of change and uncertainty with a values-driven approach that demonstrates corporate responsibility and success can go hand in hand. He was an early and influential advocate for sustainability and environmental responsibility, a driving force behind mobility innovation, and continues to be a champion for the revitalization of the Motor City.
• Dr. Betsy Ancker-Johnson: Johnson broke barriers as the first woman VP in the automotive industry, hired in 1979 at General Motors. She oversaw two of the industry's most controversial areas at the time--environmental compliance and vehicle safety. Johnson was an acclaimed plasma physicist known for her research, numerous patents and impact on automotive environmental and safety issues.
• Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Vic Edelbrock Jr.: Vic Edelbrock Sr.'s pioneering spirit and innovative engineering defined the aftermarket sector, introducing high-performance components that revolutionized vehicle performance. Vic Edelbrock Jr.'s seamless continuation of this legacy, coupled with his commitment to quality, innovation and global expansion, solidified the Edelbrock name as an enduring symbol of excellence, earning them both a place among the industry's most esteemed leaders.
• John A. James: James opened the commercial trucking industry to minorities who had previously been excluded. After court battles and relentless advocacy, James was the first African American given the ability to transport goods within Michigan and across state lines. Today, The James Group is an award-winning logistics and automotive services leader.
• Wendell Scott: As the first African American team owner and driver to win in the Grand National Series of NASCAR (now Cup Series) race, Scott's triumph shattered racial barriers and opened doors for greater diversity in racing. His legacy of perseverance, innovative mechanical skills and pioneering spirit serves as an inspiration to future generations and underscores his significant role in shaping the narrative of inclusion and progress within the automotive world.
• Vivek Sehgal: Vivek Chaand Sehgal and his mother founded Motherson company in 1975; first in trading and graduating into manufacturing. Motherson focused on earning the trust of all stakeholders, learning operational excellence and sustainable practices, and creating value for all. By earning trust with its customers as a committed solutions provider, Motherson evolved from one country, one facility, one product to a global, diversified Tier 1 supplier. Today, with over 200,000 people, it supports the world's major OEMs via 350 facilities across 42 countries with thousands of parts across business verticals, while maintaining its core principles

Quad Lock Unites F1 Star Oscar Piastri and MotoGP Rookie Pedro Acosta in Karting Showdown

Quad Lock, a smartphone and action camera mounting solutions provider, recently hosted a karting showdown between Formula 1 star Oscar Piastri and MotoGP rookie Pedro Acosta.

Held at the Brignoles Karting circuit in France, the event saw Piastri mentor Acosta, who had never driven a kart before, as he tried to set a competitive lap time in a six-speed 125cc KZ2 shifter kart. The company used a variety of Quad Lock mounting solutions to document on-track action.

Click here to watch the full video on YouTube.

SKF Group Appoints Olaf Henning as General Manager, Head of Global Automotive Aftermarket

SKF Group, based in Gothenburg, Sweden, has appointed Olaf Henning as general manager and head of global automotive aftermarket, effective mid-November. Henning succeeds Philipp Herlein, who has been named managing director of the global SKF lubrication and MPT division.

Henning previously served as the executive vice president of MAHLE Group, where he was responsible for the strategic and operational management of the company's aftermarket business unit and global logistics. He also previously held positions at Michelin and Bosch.

For more information, visit skf.com.

ORACLE Lighting Acquires Trigger Control Systems

ORACLE Lighting, the New Orleans-based provider of automotive lighting solutions, has acquired Trigger Control Systems, a manufacturer of wireless control systems for vehicle lighting and accessories and 12V-power distribution systems.

The acquisition empowers ORACLE Lighting to explore new product combinations and enhancements by integrating Trigger Controllers technology and expertise, and expand its market presence, the company said in a statement announcing the acquisition.

Trigger’s product range of auxiliary controllers, along with vehicle-specific mounting brackets and adapters, is compatible with a variety of popular vehicles, including Jeeps, trucks and SUVs, as well as marine and RV applications.

For more information, visit oraclelights.com.

By SEMA News Editors

I-CAR--one of the leading providers of automotive collision repair industry education and credentialing, technical information and services, and talent crisis solutions--has announced that its innovative new I-CAR Academy Program is now available to collision repair facilities. This announcement comes ahead of I-CAR's collision repair program at the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas (more details on that program, below).

The I-CAR Academy program is a revolutionary entry-level collision repair curriculum and the first industry-neutral, comprehensive early career program to educate and recognize new technicians and the schools and repair centers that train these new industry entrants. 

I-CAR Academy was specifically designed to kickstart a technician's education journey when they begin their career. The program provides a solid foundation for the I-CAR Professional Level curriculum and, ultimately, Platinum Technician recognition, as well as a strong base for OEM and supplier training. I-CAR Academy's launch in shops marks the first time a consistent entry-level curriculum is available to both schools and repair facilities, enabling a smoother transition to the workforce. The I-CAR Academy program for shops differs from the school version by offering additional training and best practices for shop leadership on creating a differentiated culture and delivering effective mentoring, which is critical to technician development, progression and retention. In addition, I-CAR Academy for schools was launched this summer, marking a significant step in providing a structured entry-point for students into the collision repair industry. This initiative complements the shop-based program by offering schools a tailored curriculum to better prepare students for their future careers.

"As our industry continues navigating through the talent crisis, I-CAR Academy offers an industry-wide solution at the most critical time in a technician's career: the beginning," said I-CAR President and CEO John Van Alstyne. "Our industry is in dire need of technicians. For some, the right starting point is at school, while others excel beginning their career in a shop. Regardless of where a technician enters the industry, they can count on I-CAR Academy to provide them with a solid and relevant foundation from which to build their future." 

For more information on the I-CAR Academy, visit i-car.com/academyshops or read the I-CAR announcement here.

I-CAR at SEMA 2024: A Commitment to Collision Repair Excellence

I-CAR is poised to make a significant impact at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. As a cornerstone event for the automotive aftermarket, SEMA provides the perfect stage for I-CAR to demonstrate its dedication to empowering collision repair professionals and advancing the industry. 

With a robust 15-year history of participation, I-CAR has become an indispensable resource for the collision repair community. The organization's steadfast dedication to supporting industry professionals is reflected in its comprehensive range of offerings, including talent development programs, educational initiatives, technical information and industry-leading technical services. 

I-CAR's "I Count on I-CAR" campaign highlights the organization's commitment to delivering exceptional value to both industry stakeholders and consumers. As a leading not-for-profit organization, I-CAR is dedicated to enhancing the quality and efficiency of automotive collision repair through innovative education, training, and technical resources. 

Learn With I-CAR at SEMA

At the 2024 SEMA Show, I-CAR will present a series of specialized courses designed to advance professional skills and knowledge. These in-person learning opportunities include: 

• "MIG Welding Technology & Applications": This course explores advanced MIG welding techniques and applications, covering the latest advancements in welding technology and their effective use in collision repair. 
• "Electric Vehicle (EV) Overview & Considerations": Participants will gain a thorough understanding of EV technology, including unique repair considerations and best practices for handling these increasingly common vehicles. 
• "Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Overview & Considerations": This session provides an in-depth look at ADAS technology, focusing on repair and calibration techniques necessary for accurate and safe vehicle repairs. 

Engage With I-CAR at SEMA

The SEMA Show Collision Repair and Refinish Stage (view it on the floorplan here) will be a dynamic center for engagement and interaction. Subject matter experts from I-CAR will deliver informative presentations and panel discussions throughout each day on crucial industry topics, emerging trends and the future of collision repair. Attendees will have the chance to engage with these experts through interactive Q&A sessions, enhancing their understanding of key issues. 

Additionally, hands-on welding demonstrations will be conducted by experienced welding experts. These practical sessions are designed to showcase advanced welding techniques and offer interactive learning experiences. Plus, a highlight of the I-CAR experience will be virtual reality demos of new methods of learning technology.

Connect With I-CAR at SEMA

Network with I-CAR members and the team and share your perspectives on the future of collision repair. This is a prime opportunity to expand your professional network and collaborate with peers who are equally passionate about advancing the industry. Collision careers are empowering the collision-repair industry to attract and retain skilled technicians through a dynamic platform, including website, social media and digital advertising. With recent enhancements like detailed career paths, engaging videos and downloadable resources for counselors, educators, parents, shops, and schools, I-CAR and the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) are reaching more future technicians than ever before.

To fully experience I-CAR's offerings at SEMA, visit Booth #33139 in the Upper South Hall. Explore new initiatives like I-CAR Academy, a comprehensive training program for entry-level technicians, and discover enhancements to the "myI-CAR" digital platform, featuring the latest tools and resources for professional development. 

To address the industry's talent crisis and become part of the solution, consider partnering with Collision Careers. Visit collisioncareers.com to learn how your organization can make a difference by supporting our initiatives and expanding your reach within the industry.

Join I-CAR at the SEMA Show to reaffirm your commitment to industry excellence and stay at the forefront of automotive collision repair! Find more information and register at semashow.com.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The staff of State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, who represents California's 56th Assembly District, which includes SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, recently visited the SEMA Garage to better understand the garage's critical role in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The SEMA Garage's Emissions Compliance Center, recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a Certification-Ready Automotive Emissions Testing Laboratory, provides essential services for manufacturers developing emissions-compliant aftermarket parts.

SEMA's impact on Assemblymember Calderon's district is significant. There are 46 SEMA member companies in the 56th Assembly District, contributing $784.48 million in total economic output, supporting 2,730 jobs and generating $240.43 million in wages and benefits. As the representative of this vital economic hub, Calderon's engagement with SEMA helps ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of a streamlined emissions compliance process to support industry innovation and growth.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Calderon's team for taking the time to visit the SEMA Garage and learn more about our work to support the aftermarket industry," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Their engagement is key to ensuring that the laws and regulations affecting our industry promote innovation, protect small businesses, and support the local economy."

SEMA, through its garage, works closely with CARB to issue Executive Orders (EOs), which certify that aftermarket parts meet California's strict emissions regulations, allowing their legal sale and use across all 50 states. Over the last seven years, SEMA has facilitated 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing over 700 applications for member companies. The SEMA Garage plays a vital role in this process, offering affordable emissions testing and compliance assistance.

For more information, or to host your own lawmakers on a visit to your facility, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The staff of State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, who represents California's 56th Assembly District, which includes SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, recently visited the SEMA Garage to better understand the garage's critical role in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The SEMA Garage's Emissions Compliance Center, recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a Certification-Ready Automotive Emissions Testing Laboratory, provides essential services for manufacturers developing emissions-compliant aftermarket parts.

SEMA's impact on Assemblymember Calderon's district is significant. There are 46 SEMA member companies in the 56th Assembly District, contributing $784.48 million in total economic output, supporting 2,730 jobs and generating $240.43 million in wages and benefits. As the representative of this vital economic hub, Calderon's engagement with SEMA helps ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of a streamlined emissions compliance process to support industry innovation and growth.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Calderon's team for taking the time to visit the SEMA Garage and learn more about our work to support the aftermarket industry," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Their engagement is key to ensuring that the laws and regulations affecting our industry promote innovation, protect small businesses, and support the local economy."

SEMA, through its garage, works closely with CARB to issue Executive Orders (EOs), which certify that aftermarket parts meet California's strict emissions regulations, allowing their legal sale and use across all 50 states. Over the last seven years, SEMA has facilitated 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing over 700 applications for member companies. The SEMA Garage plays a vital role in this process, offering affordable emissions testing and compliance assistance.

For more information, or to host your own lawmakers on a visit to your facility, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The staff of State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, who represents California's 56th Assembly District, which includes SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, recently visited the SEMA Garage to better understand the garage's critical role in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The SEMA Garage's Emissions Compliance Center, recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a Certification-Ready Automotive Emissions Testing Laboratory, provides essential services for manufacturers developing emissions-compliant aftermarket parts.

SEMA's impact on Assemblymember Calderon's district is significant. There are 46 SEMA member companies in the 56th Assembly District, contributing $784.48 million in total economic output, supporting 2,730 jobs and generating $240.43 million in wages and benefits. As the representative of this vital economic hub, Calderon's engagement with SEMA helps ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of a streamlined emissions compliance process to support industry innovation and growth.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Calderon's team for taking the time to visit the SEMA Garage and learn more about our work to support the aftermarket industry," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Their engagement is key to ensuring that the laws and regulations affecting our industry promote innovation, protect small businesses, and support the local economy."

SEMA, through its garage, works closely with CARB to issue Executive Orders (EOs), which certify that aftermarket parts meet California's strict emissions regulations, allowing their legal sale and use across all 50 states. Over the last seven years, SEMA has facilitated 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing over 700 applications for member companies. The SEMA Garage plays a vital role in this process, offering affordable emissions testing and compliance assistance.

For more information, or to host your own lawmakers on a visit to your facility, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Industry members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers at the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources, so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Industry members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers at the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources, so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By Ashley Reyes   

As part of the 2024 SEMA Show's initiative to provide attendees with a diverse learning program, the trade show will offer numerous panels and lectures that will benefit automotive professionals across various market segments. 

Powered by SEMA's councils and networks--SEMA's specialized communities that support specific segments of the automotive aftermarket--these seminars will highlight the latest industry trends and best practices that Showgoers can use to reach new levels of business and career success.  

Education sessions powered by SEMA's councils and networks are listed below. (All times PST). To view the full 2024 SEMA Show Education Program, which includes 80 seminars across seven learning tracks, as well as education sessions led by I-CAR, Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and Tire Industry Association (TIA), visit www.semashow.com/education.   

• Empower Yourself: Harnessing the Potential of AI for Women in the Automotive Specialty-Equipment Market, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Tailored for beginners, this course aims to provide a basic understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) (and its different forms), its capabilities and how it can be leveraged to increase your team's output. This course focuses on using real-world case studies in an interactive session to provide the tools needed to apply AI technologies to each participant's company.  

• Truck and Off-Road Builders Panel, Powered by Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316   
  • Truck and off-road accessories are one of the most lucrative and influential segments as the popularity of modifying and accessorizing vehicles continues to rise. Connect with shop owners and managers as they discuss current and future trends in the truck and off-road industry.  

• Hot-Rod Builders' Panel, Powered by Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Join top-tier builders for an informative and lively discussion on the current state of the hot-rod segment. Engage with panelists in a casual setting as they share insights into the latest trends, look at the future of the industry and offer strategies to help current and prospective shop owners navigate the business of building hot rods. 

• Education of Restoration, Powered by Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., Location: W316  
  • Explore how Gen X and Millennials are impacting the restoration market. Learn how to expand your business to engage this new generation of enthusiasts restoring the vehicles of their youth. 

• Attracting and Retaining Young Talent in the Automotive Industry, Powered by Future Leaders Network (FLN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316  
  • FLN recognizes what young recruits can bring to the table for any growing business. This timely panel discussion will address ways to attract new young talent and, more importantly, how to retain young employees as valuable assets to your organization.

• The SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium: Connecting Women, Empowering Futures, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Location: W326 (Fee-based/registration required)  
  • This five-hour event includes skill-building workshops, fireside chats, the Circle of Women networking luncheon and a C-suite-level insights panel offering firsthand knowledge on leadership development for women in leading roles. This includes the first-ever "Shining the Spotlight on Women" program honoring women who strive and succeed at the cutting edge of the automotive industry's many disciplines, such as engineering, design, leadership and innovation.  

• Wheels Up at 10: Vehicle Applications, Powered by Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC)  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., Location: S226  
  • Learn how to find tire load at a given air pressure and calculate tire-rim widths, lower your vehicle, perform an alignment, use camber plates if needed based on the amount lowered, and execute brake upgrades and their overall effect on performance.  

• ETTN Lunch and Learn: Practical Use of Alternative, Synthetic and Hydrogen Fuels  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Location: N239  
  • Join a panel of industry experts as they share their expertise on topics related to the use of alternative fuels in internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Topics include: using hydrogen for ICE conversions, alternative-fuel storage and distribution and meeting emissions standards with alternative fuels. A Q&A session will follow the presentations on each topic.  

• Five Successful Strategies Restylers Use to Grow Business, Powered by Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 1:00 p.m. –2:00 p.m., Location: W316
  • The top five tips for running successful operations in the restyling industry will be discussed with insights into effective processes and procedures.

Still need a 2024 SEMA Show badge? Attendee, buyer, and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open at semashow.com/register. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27.  

By Ashley Reyes   

As part of the 2024 SEMA Show's initiative to provide attendees with a diverse learning program, the trade show will offer numerous panels and lectures that will benefit automotive professionals across various market segments. 

Powered by SEMA's councils and networks--SEMA's specialized communities that support specific segments of the automotive aftermarket--these seminars will highlight the latest industry trends and best practices that Showgoers can use to reach new levels of business and career success.  

Education sessions powered by SEMA's councils and networks are listed below. (All times PST). To view the full 2024 SEMA Show Education Program, which includes 80 seminars across seven learning tracks, as well as education sessions led by I-CAR, Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and Tire Industry Association (TIA), visit www.semashow.com/education.   

• Empower Yourself: Harnessing the Potential of AI for Women in the Automotive Specialty-Equipment Market, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Tailored for beginners, this course aims to provide a basic understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) (and its different forms), its capabilities and how it can be leveraged to increase your team's output. This course focuses on using real-world case studies in an interactive session to provide the tools needed to apply AI technologies to each participant's company.  

• Truck and Off-Road Builders Panel, Powered by Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316   
  • Truck and off-road accessories are one of the most lucrative and influential segments as the popularity of modifying and accessorizing vehicles continues to rise. Connect with shop owners and managers as they discuss current and future trends in the truck and off-road industry.  

• Hot-Rod Builders' Panel, Powered by Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Join top-tier builders for an informative and lively discussion on the current state of the hot-rod segment. Engage with panelists in a casual setting as they share insights into the latest trends, look at the future of the industry and offer strategies to help current and prospective shop owners navigate the business of building hot rods. 

• Education of Restoration, Powered by Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., Location: W316  
  • Explore how Gen X and Millennials are impacting the restoration market. Learn how to expand your business to engage this new generation of enthusiasts restoring the vehicles of their youth. 

• Attracting and Retaining Young Talent in the Automotive Industry, Powered by Future Leaders Network (FLN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316  
  • FLN recognizes what young recruits can bring to the table for any growing business. This timely panel discussion will address ways to attract new young talent and, more importantly, how to retain young employees as valuable assets to your organization.

• The SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium: Connecting Women, Empowering Futures, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Location: W326 (Fee-based/registration required)  
  • This five-hour event includes skill-building workshops, fireside chats, the Circle of Women networking luncheon and a C-suite-level insights panel offering firsthand knowledge on leadership development for women in leading roles. This includes the first-ever "Shining the Spotlight on Women" program honoring women who strive and succeed at the cutting edge of the automotive industry's many disciplines, such as engineering, design, leadership and innovation.  

• Wheels Up at 10: Vehicle Applications, Powered by Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC)  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., Location: S226  
  • Learn how to find tire load at a given air pressure and calculate tire-rim widths, lower your vehicle, perform an alignment, use camber plates if needed based on the amount lowered, and execute brake upgrades and their overall effect on performance.  

• ETTN Lunch and Learn: Practical Use of Alternative, Synthetic and Hydrogen Fuels  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Location: N239  
  • Join a panel of industry experts as they share their expertise on topics related to the use of alternative fuels in internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Topics include: using hydrogen for ICE conversions, alternative-fuel storage and distribution and meeting emissions standards with alternative fuels. A Q&A session will follow the presentations on each topic.  

• Five Successful Strategies Restylers Use to Grow Business, Powered by Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 1:00 p.m. –2:00 p.m., Location: W316
  • The top five tips for running successful operations in the restyling industry will be discussed with insights into effective processes and procedures.

Still need a 2024 SEMA Show badge? Attendee, buyer, and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open at semashow.com/register. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27.  

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA's market research team this week released a report highlighting national trends in vehicle lifecycle and the implications for the automotive aftermarket. Among the key trends discussed in the report is that Americans are keeping their motor vehicles longer, partly because of increased dependability, but also because of the prohibitive cost of buying replacements. The average U.S. vehicle age is now at 12.6 years, its highest number in more than a decade.

The research also reveals trends across four categories of vehicles (Classic, Aged, Core and Modern), highlighting age, popularity, usage and consumer spending habits. For accessorizing, pickups and muscle cars are the top choices for enthusiasts. Meanwhile, vehicles in the Aged category are driving spending for performance products, as a way to refresh their older vehicle. Aftermarket product spending for Modern and Core vehicles was primarily--59% and 54%--on accessory and appearance products, while 63% of spending on Classic vehicles was for performance and handling products.

SEMA business members can download the new "SEMA Vehicle Lifecycles Report" for free at www.sema.org/research. To learn more about SEMA membership, visit www.sema.org/membership. 

For more information, contact Gavin Knapp, director of SEMA market research, at gavink@sema.org.