By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA's government affairs team has recently received a number of inquiries about the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) decision not to exempt motorhomes from their Advanced Clean Trucks rule. The Advanced Clean Trucks rule would require all medium- and heavy-duty trucks to be zero-emissions vehicles by 2036.

SEMA has consistently opposed California's zero-emissions vehicle mandates in all forms, including filing a lawsuit against CARB's Advanced Clean Fleet rules in October. SEMA recently spoke with our counterparts at the RV Industry Association (RVIA) about CARB's Advanced Clean Trucks decision and how the organizations can better work together to oppose these eventual internal-combustion-engine bans. RVIA is continuing to hold its own discussions with CARB about a potential delay or exemption from the state's rule and recently shared this update with its membership.

SEMA has led the effort to pass legislation and resolutions in nine states over the past 18 months that support governments remaining technology-neutral when it comes to carbon emissions and vehicle technology. The "ban the [internal-combustion engine] bans" effort maintains that all forms of vehicle technology should remain on the table and that the government shouldn't mandate one form of vehicle technology over all others. SEMA, through its Driving Force Action SuperPAC, also implemented a successful voter education effort during this year's presidential and congressional campaigns, with a focus on ensuring voters in battleground states understand the impact of EV mandates on automotive aftermarket small businesses.

President-elect Donald Trump has committed to and prioritized a "Day 1" reversal of the federal EV mandates, as well as reversing California's internal-combustion-engine bans, should President Biden's Environmental Protection Agency approve those rules before President Biden leaves office.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA's government affairs team has recently received a number of inquiries about the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) decision not to exempt motorhomes from their Advanced Clean Trucks rule. The Advanced Clean Trucks rule would require all medium- and heavy-duty trucks to be zero-emissions vehicles by 2036.

SEMA has consistently opposed California's zero-emissions vehicle mandates in all forms, including filing a lawsuit against CARB's Advanced Clean Fleet rules in October. SEMA recently spoke with our counterparts at the RV Industry Association (RVIA) about CARB's Advanced Clean Trucks decision and how the organizations can better work together to oppose these eventual internal-combustion-engine bans. RVIA is continuing to hold its own discussions with CARB about a potential delay or exemption from the state's rule and recently shared this update with its membership.

SEMA has led the effort to pass legislation and resolutions in nine states over the past 18 months that support governments remaining technology-neutral when it comes to carbon emissions and vehicle technology. The "ban the [internal-combustion engine] bans" effort maintains that all forms of vehicle technology should remain on the table and that the government shouldn't mandate one form of vehicle technology over all others. SEMA, through its Driving Force Action SuperPAC, also implemented a successful voter education effort during this year's presidential and congressional campaigns, with a focus on ensuring voters in battleground states understand the impact of EV mandates on automotive aftermarket small businesses.

President-elect Donald Trump has committed to and prioritized a "Day 1" reversal of the federal EV mandates, as well as reversing California's internal-combustion-engine bans, should President Biden's Environmental Protection Agency approve those rules before President Biden leaves office.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

U.S. Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA), the co-chairs of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, recently sent a letter (read the full letter HERE) to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requesting clarity on the agency's Combating Auto Retail Scams Trade Regulation Rule (CARS Rule) to ensure that it isn't used as a justification for auto dealers to limit customization options offered before the first point of sale.  

The CARS Rule is intended to provide more transparency to the process of buying and leasing cars and to stop deceptive and unfair practices that harm consumers, including bait-and-switch tactics, hidden charges, and other conduct. While the rule makes it illegal for auto dealers to charge customers for add-ons that don't provide a benefit, some dealers cite the CARS Rule as a reason they can't continue to offer legitimate add-ons offered by members of SEMA's Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Council. 

The letter from Reps. Posey and Bishop requests that the FTC affirm that the rule does not prohibit dealerships from offering services that consumers demand, such as window tint, paint/underbody paint coating, replacing cloth with leather seat covers, paint protection film that scientifically reduces clear coat damage from rock chips, truck lifts, wheel and tire replacements, truck accessories, window tint that reduces ultraviolet (UV) rays, Tonneau Covers, spray-in bed liners, and remote starts.  

"Thank you to Representatives Posey and Bishop for seeking guidance from the FTC on this important matter," said Colby McLaughlin, President of Trim Illusion and Chair of SEMA's PRO Council. "It is critical that the FTC clarifies that the CARS Rule allows auto dealerships to continue to offer vehicle upgrades and customization offered by restylers. This letter from SEMA's allies in Congress is a testament to the association's advocacy efforts to protect our businesses and the future of the industry." 

Implementation of the CARS rule is currently delayed as the FTC awaits the outcome of a lawsuit before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals from the National Automobile Dealers Association. 

For additional information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

U.S. Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA), the co-chairs of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, recently sent a letter (read the full letter HERE) to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requesting clarity on the agency's Combating Auto Retail Scams Trade Regulation Rule (CARS Rule) to ensure that it isn't used as a justification for auto dealers to limit customization options offered before the first point of sale.  

The CARS Rule is intended to provide more transparency to the process of buying and leasing cars and to stop deceptive and unfair practices that harm consumers, including bait-and-switch tactics, hidden charges, and other conduct. While the rule makes it illegal for auto dealers to charge customers for add-ons that don't provide a benefit, some dealers cite the CARS Rule as a reason they can't continue to offer legitimate add-ons offered by members of SEMA's Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Council. 

The letter from Reps. Posey and Bishop requests that the FTC affirm that the rule does not prohibit dealerships from offering services that consumers demand, such as window tint, paint/underbody paint coating, replacing cloth with leather seat covers, paint protection film that scientifically reduces clear coat damage from rock chips, truck lifts, wheel and tire replacements, truck accessories, window tint that reduces ultraviolet (UV) rays, Tonneau Covers, spray-in bed liners, and remote starts.  

"Thank you to Representatives Posey and Bishop for seeking guidance from the FTC on this important matter," said Colby McLaughlin, President of Trim Illusion and Chair of SEMA's PRO Council. "It is critical that the FTC clarifies that the CARS Rule allows auto dealerships to continue to offer vehicle upgrades and customization offered by restylers. This letter from SEMA's allies in Congress is a testament to the association's advocacy efforts to protect our businesses and the future of the industry." 

Implementation of the CARS rule is currently delayed as the FTC awaits the outcome of a lawsuit before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals from the National Automobile Dealers Association. 

For additional information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Victor Muñoz has joined SEMA as senior manager for state government affairs. Muñoz will support SEMA's state-based advocacy focus on the western United States, including California, where he will be based. 

Muñoz has built a significant resume in California politics, with more than a decade in government affairs and community engagement. He most recently managed government stakeholder relations for Southern California Edison. Before that, he led legislative efforts for Assemblymember Chris Holden in California's 41st district. 

"We're thrilled to welcome Victor Muñoz to SEMA's Government Affairs team," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director for state government affairs. "Victor's extensive experience in government relations and deep understanding of legislative processes will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for the specialty automotive aftermarket industry. His expertise in navigating complex issues and building strong relationships will strengthen our efforts to protect and promote the interests of our members." 

In his new role, Muñoz will lead local engagement with state lawmakers in states west of the Mississippi River, including Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Muñoz will work to secure the enactment of laws and policies that support the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to bring innovative products to market, as well as support the issues that impact the nation's millions of automotive enthusiasts. 

"Our nation's rich car culture was engrained in me from a young age, having been born and raised near Route 66," Muñoz said. "I'm thrilled to bring my government affairs skills and experience to bear in support of the vibrant aftermarket industry whose products help Americans restore, repair and modify the vehicles that help them work and play. Automotive-aftermarket manufacturers, retailers, distributors and the ultimate consumer--car enthusiasts--deserve a voice in government that matches their passion and what they contribute to the United States economy. I'm excited to be part of these collaborative efforts." 

Muñoz, a proud Angeleno, holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and government from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Victor Muñoz has joined SEMA as senior manager for state government affairs. Muñoz will support SEMA's state-based advocacy focus on the western United States, including California, where he will be based. 

Muñoz has built a significant resume in California politics, with more than a decade in government affairs and community engagement. He most recently managed government stakeholder relations for Southern California Edison. Before that, he led legislative efforts for Assemblymember Chris Holden in California's 41st district. 

"We're thrilled to welcome Victor Muñoz to SEMA's Government Affairs team," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director for state government affairs. "Victor's extensive experience in government relations and deep understanding of legislative processes will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for the specialty automotive aftermarket industry. His expertise in navigating complex issues and building strong relationships will strengthen our efforts to protect and promote the interests of our members." 

In his new role, Muñoz will lead local engagement with state lawmakers in states west of the Mississippi River, including Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Muñoz will work to secure the enactment of laws and policies that support the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to bring innovative products to market, as well as support the issues that impact the nation's millions of automotive enthusiasts. 

"Our nation's rich car culture was engrained in me from a young age, having been born and raised near Route 66," Muñoz said. "I'm thrilled to bring my government affairs skills and experience to bear in support of the vibrant aftermarket industry whose products help Americans restore, repair and modify the vehicles that help them work and play. Automotive-aftermarket manufacturers, retailers, distributors and the ultimate consumer--car enthusiasts--deserve a voice in government that matches their passion and what they contribute to the United States economy. I'm excited to be part of these collaborative efforts." 

Muñoz, a proud Angeleno, holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and government from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona. 

By SEMA News Editors

Hot Shot's Secret

Red Diamond Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5-Quart Container

Hot Shot's Secret is now offering its Red Diamond Ultimate fully synthetic passenger car motor oil in a five-quart, easy-pour container. The motor oil was introduced last June in five-, 55- and 330-gallon sizes in three viscosity weights: 0W-20, 5W-20 and 5W-30. Red Diamond is made from 100% Group III base oils and uses Hot Shot's Secret's proprietary FR3 friction reducer nano lubricant to improve performance, protect engine components, mileage and horsepower, the company said.

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Aliceje Keyburn, senior graphic and media designer at Yamaha Motor Company, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Keyburn in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?

Aliceje Keyburn: I have been with Yamaha Financial Services for two years and I love the opportunities it gives me. I get to work with all the product groups within Yamaha.

SN: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job?

AK: I work with all the various product groups from motorsports to golf, watercraft, global, dealers, sales, etc. across different time zones. I would say the most challenging part is communication through the different groups and the tight deadlines for program launches, event and tradeshow support, etc.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?

AK: Ten-plus years in the powersport/automotive industry. I started off working for a motorsport aftermarket group, which was a dream job coming straight from graduation.

SN: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?

AK: Personable: I think being someone people can come to and talk ideas out with is something that has been beneficial. Working through designs, problem solving and being able to explain your work is important.

Dependable: Doing what needs to be done in order to meet deadlines. People know they can come to me and I will be honest about what we can accomplish in their deadlines. Volunteering for things outside the "norm" of my job scope has also helped expand my skillset and networking.

Humility: If I do not know the answer to something I am not afraid to speak up and say something. I also know everyone makes mistakes, and so do I. It happens--but I do try to own it and have a plan on how to correct it.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what has been your biggest challenge or accomplishment?

AK: Last year I was recognized by Powersport Business as a 40-under-40 recipient and that was a huge honor for me.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry? How have they helped you along the way?

AK: I have so many mentors and people I look up to. Evan Perkins and Kevin Bailey have been great role models and mentors. When I first came into the automotive industry, they both took the time to teach me about pistons, blocks, pushrods, etc. They would let me ask the "stupid" questions and were happy to answer and spend time explaining things to me. Vera Oh is a great mentor who shows what a great leader/manager can do to inspire their team to want to work harder and be the best.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?

AK: Don't get stuck behind the computer; get out and network.

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?

AK: Yes. I have always known I wanted to be in the sports industry. Whether it's powersports or automotive--I love it all! The people are the best, it's fun and I don't mind having to go to the races to work.

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?

AK: My parents always supported me in doing whatever I wanted, and they were the ones to push me to follow my creative passion. I didn't know graphic design was a real career path until they took me to different art schools to learn about their programs.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website. 

The following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

The following seats are open for this year’s election:

• Chair-elect (one open seat)
• Manufacturer (three open seats)
• Manufacturers Rep (one open seat)

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, please include brief information about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Submit a nomination HERE.

We urge you to take part in the nominations process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show has officially concluded, solidifying its status as the global epicenter of automotive innovation. The event brought together more than 2,400 exhibitors, including 580 first-time exhibitors, and attracted more than 160,000 attendees from 140 countries celebrating the industry at events throughout SEMA Week. Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from November 5-8, this year's Show encompassed 1.2 million net square feet of indoor space and acres of outdoor exhibit space and activations showcasing groundbreaking products, cutting-edge technologies, and forward-thinking custom builds. The scope, energy and passion reaffirmed the SEMA Show as the premier automotive aftermarket event shaping the future of the industry.

"SEMA 2024 was a true celebration of where the automotive aftermarket industry is headed," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. "This year, we saw a remarkable convergence of innovation, collaboration, and passion, with exhibitors, builders, and enthusiasts all coming together to push the boundaries of what's possible. Innovation was the heart of SEMA Show 2024, driving the merger of creativity and technology across the Show floor."

"[This year's SEMA Show] was definitely a success because we met our goals, which was to meet and cultivate three new solid industry friendships and acquaintances--and pick up at least one new product to offer [in our shop]. We succeeded on both fronts by adding a new product line we'll stock and sell regularly, as well as adding a product that will be a special order offering for large ticket restyling [projects]," said attendee Steve Welch, a restyler who owns New York Customz offering automotive restyling, paint protective services and window tinting in Dothan, Alabama. "Adding industry contacts, in my opinion, is equally and almost more important. The old adage rings true with almost every avenue of life: it's not what you know, but who." 

Whether it was the unveiling of next-gen products like the Revv ADAS Plus, Milltek Forge Motorsport E-DV electronic diverter valve solution, or innovative designs like the Kia EV9 ADVNTR Concept, the event demonstrated that SEMA is not just a trade show—it's a catalyst for industry evolution.

INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHTS
 

The 2024 SEMA Show was packed with visionary products and builds that underscore the continuous advancement of the aftermarket industry:

• Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy Concept: A nod to '90s rally heritage, this build merges modern-day performance with vintage rally design, embodying Toyota's commitment to motorsports innovation.
• Ram REV & Dodge Charger Banshee Concept: Electrification meets performance in these two bold concept vehicles, showcasing the growing trend of electric performance vehicles in the aftermarket space.
• SEMA Battle of the Builders: The category champions for the 2024 Battle of the Builders—including overall champion Noah Alexander's '68 Dodge Charger (Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck), Bruce Yarnell's '65 Aston Martin DB5 (Sport Compact/Import Performance), Connor McElvain's '69 Datsun 2000 Roadster (Young Guns), and Rob Lindsay's '49 Willys Pickup (Off-Road)—demonstrated the artistry, craftsmanship and forward-thinking approaches of the industry's best custom builders.
• Custom Autosound's USA-850 DigaDial™: The virtual screen radio allows user a choice of four distinct, one-of-a kind displays, from a classic analog look to an all-digital RDS display, as well as improved audio refinements.
• FutureTech Studio: A highlight of the 2024 show, the FutureTech Studio presented next-generation technologies that are transforming the automotive world. From advanced EV innovations to autonomous driving systems, this space provided a glimpse into the future of the industry.

SEMA SHOW CELEBRITIES: STARS BEHIND THE WHEEL

A staple for celebrity appearances and star-powered moments, the 2024 SEMA Show attracted major attention from both the entertainment and motorsports worlds. Among the most anticipated reveals was country music sensation Kane Brown's custom F-250 King Ranch. Displayed at the American Force Wheels booth, the stunning build had crowds buzzing as fans lined up for a glimpse of the star's personalized ride.

Chip Foose, legendary designer, brought his unmistakable touch to a number of custom builds, and Akira Nakai (known for his work with RAUH-Welt Begriff or RWB) created a one-of-a-kind Porsche 997—a milestone as his first-ever build at the SEMA Show, continuing his legacy of perfection and influence in the world of custom cars.

SEMA FEST AND CONSUMER ENGAGEMENT: CONNECTING THE INDUSTRY WITH FANS
 

SEMA Fest expanded the Show's reach by offering the public a chance to engage with cutting-edge automotive designs, live music, and motorsports. Featuring performances from bands like Cage the Elephant and Sublime, SEMA Fest brought together music, motorsports and automotive culture for an unforgettable experience.

The SEMA Cruise was another crowd-pleaser, with more than 1,200 vehicles parading down Convention Center Drive, giving attendees a final chance to see some of the most innovative and jaw-dropping builds up close.

SEMA also opened its doors, literally and digitally, through the Friday Enthusiast Experience, an opportunity for the public to experience the Show on its final day, and SEMA Live, the Show's first-ever livestream, which attracted hundreds of thousands of viewers from around the world, giving the SEMA Show a true global audience.

Exhibitor Motorcycle Industry Council in Irvine, California, is a not-for-profit organization that works to spread the thrills of motorcycle riding. Its RideWithUs program, situated in the Diamond Lot outside of West Hall this year, saw several attendees learn how to ride a motorcycle, many for the first time in their lives. SEMA Live host JC Fernando even took a spin while livestreaming this year, with viewers watching him gear up with a helmet and driving suit before successfully--and safely--riding a motorcycle on the SEMA Show campus.

"SEMA is always a great Show--the energy is high, the people are stoked to be here, and when you have the opportunity to offer attendees an experience they can't get anywhere else," said Cinnamon Kernes, vice president of market expansion for Motorcycle Industry Council. "Automotive enthusiasts appreciate the fun that engines provide, and for many, riding a motorcycle would probably be something they'd really enjoy--they just need a chance to try it. And so that's what we did [with RideWithUs at SEMA this year]. We got them geared up, paired with a coach, and we put them on a motorcycle. Within minutes, they were riding and smiling.

"SEMA also attracts many knowledgeable younger enthusiasts as they offer student and educator badges for free. So we get to put motorcycling in front of the demographics we really want to reach," Kernes continued. "If you didn't get a chance to try riding a motorcycle at SEMA, there will be opportunities across the country at Motorcycle Safety Foundation-approved schools that offer free RIDE Days with certified MSF coaches. Check out MSF-USA.org for a schedule. And if you're not sure where to begin or are looking to rejoin the moto community, visit RideWithUs.com for inspiration and next steps."

SEMA SHOW 2024: MORE THAN JUST A TRADE SHOW

The 2024 SEMA Show was more than just a celebration of the latest products—it was an exploration of the future. The event served its role as the industry's innovation epicenter, where attendees engaged in 80+ seminars, hands-on workshops and networking events designed to keep them ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

SEMA's advocacy efforts were also front and center, underscoring the importance of collaboration across the industry. With initiatives like the SEMA Action Network (SAN) and the SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC), SEMA continues to advocate for policies that protect and promote the automotive aftermarket, ensuring the continued growth and success of the sector.

THE ROAD AHEAD: A GLOBAL INDUSTRY POWERED BY INNOVATION
 

The SEMA Show 2024 closed with an electrifying sense of optimism. As the global leader in automotive innovation, SEMA once again demonstrated how the aftermarket industry is evolving.

By championing collaboration, sustainability and next-gen technologies, the Show remains the essential destination for professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts eager to shape the future of automotive culture.

"We're excited by the groundbreaking innovations showcased at SEMA 2024," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. "The future of the automotive aftermarket has never been brighter, and SEMA is where it all begins."

For more information and SEMA Show highlights, visit SEMAShow.com.