By SEMA Editors

There are five weeks until the aftermarket industry converges in Las Vegas for the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3. As exhibitors gear up to connect with a projected 160,000 buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, here's a list of key deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of all of the deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, which are also detailed below.

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Placing Freeman orders before the Thursday, September 28 discount deadline, which offers prices up to 40% off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show. Our partners at Freeman are here to help answer any questions about preparing for the SEMA Show and maximizing savings. Email sema@freeman.com or call 888-508-5054 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PDT) to connect directly.

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists. 

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

• October 13: Shipping of Carpet to Advance Warehouse--CARPET/PAD only. 
• October 13: After-Hours Events.
• October 13: After-Hours Event--Proof of Security (Required if having an after-hours event). 
• October 13: Meeting/Function space reservation.
• October 16: Booth Catering Order Service--CENTERPLATE.
• October 18: Tents/Canopies--Full Circle Events.
• October 18: Freight--Last day freight will be accepted at the warehouse without penalty.
• October 19: Hanging sign/banner shipments to advance Freeman Warehouse.
• October 19: New Product Showcase advance shipments to Freeman Warehouse.
• October 20: Photography Order--Expo Ease
• October 20: Plant and Floral Order--Expo Ease
• October 26: Freight--1st Day Shipments accepted at LVCC (refer to Target Floor Plan)
• October 27: Vehicle Detailing (Advanced Rate)--ShowFleet
• November 2: Last Day to Pick Up Banquet Tickets--12:00 p.m. deadline
• November 3: Members Lounge Conference Room Reservation by 3 p.m.
• November 3: Online Registration Closes at 2 p.m.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers, is gearing up to be one of the best to date. The prestigious competition is judged by industry experts, with awards presented to individuals who have demonstrated extreme talent, creativity and craftsmanship in modifying cars, trucks, SUVs, sport compacts and luxury and exotic builds. And good news for builders: entries are still open for the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers through Friday, October 13.

Entrants of the Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers, can:

• Get exposure through media coverage in top publications and online sites.
• Have content generated on your build, your products and your story.
• Grow your notoriety and have your shop stand out on social media.
• Network with top builders from around the globe.
• Be part of the one-hour "Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers" TV special.

For more information and to enter, visit semashow.com/botb.

By SEMA News Editors

See the latest news from exhibitors of the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. 

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all. Registration is still available online for $120 through the event date. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!  

And, it's never too early to start your SEMA Show plan. Create a customized schedule, view the floorplan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app. 

TMI Products TRIM Awards Returns to the SEMA Show

The TMI TRIM Awards will return to the SEMA Show following its successful inaugural launch at the 2022 event when the Best of Show Champ title went to Wes and Vivian Rhydell for their impressive '41 Chevy two-door Fleetline, a creation by Rad Rides by Troy. 

The TRIM Awards gained significant momentum after its partnership with Barrett-Jackson, which culminated in the TRIM Awards Road Tour--a nationwide search for the best TMI-equipped vehicles. The judges selected Dana Estes' C10 as the Road Show Champ, earning him a coveted spotlight at the SEMA Show, where his vehicle will be in the TMI Products Booth #V196 in the Central Hall. 

TMI is not just awarding custom trophies to winners. Each recipient will also receive fantastic prizes from esteemed industry partners, including an invitation to the 2024 Barrett-Jackson Cup in Scottsdale, Arizona, courtesy of Barrett-Jackson, as well as prizes from Mothers Polish, FiTech and Optima Batteries. Individual category winners will also be presented with a TMI $500 voucher, while the Best of Show Champion will receive a certificate for a complete TMI interior for their next build, valued at $10,000.   

Expert Panel of Judges 

The TRIM Awards will be presented by a distinguished panel of industry insiders, including:   

• Kevin Oeste: Host of V8 Speed & Resto Shop and the voice of the 2023 SEMA Show.
• Sean Holman: Owner of Use For Adventure Agency and co-host of "The Truck Show Podcast." 
• Sara Morosan: The 2021 SEMA Person of the Year, multi-Ford Design award winner, and owner of LGE/CTS Motorsports. 
• Theresa Contreras: PPG Brand ambassador, Multi Ford Design award winner and owner of Baja Forged. 
• Marcel Venable and Jason Mulligan: Co-owners of Auto Revolution and "Car Guy Confessions," representing the custom automotive video team. 

How to Enter 

To enter your vehicle in this year's TMI TRIM Awards, it must first be on display at the 2023 SEMA Show. Having a TMI Interior in the vehicle is not a requirement as many of the awards are a celebration of creativity and design. Winners must be present during the awards ceremony, 

The awards ceremony will take place at the second TMI Products Booth #24477 in Central Hall at 12:00 p.m. PDT on Wednesday, November 1. Winners must be present during the ceremony to receive their trophies and bask in their well-deserved recognition. Interested applicants can enter at tmiproducts.com/blog/tmi-s-trim-awards-2023.

TRIM Awards Categories 

1. Best Car: Open to any car featuring TMI seats. 
2. Best Truck: Open to any truck featuring TMI seats. 
3. Best Custom SUV or Wagon: Open to any SUV or wagon, whether two-door or four-door. 
4. Best Full Interior: Open to any vehicle running a full TMI interior, including all available components from that model line. 
5. Most Creative: Awarded for the best use of patterns, colors, and overall execution. 
6. Best Color-Matching: Recognizing the best use of patterns, colors, and stitching that matches the vehicle's exterior. 
7. Best Custom Car Interior (open to all Cars at the show): This can be any vehicle with any type of custom interior. 
8. Best Custom Truck Interior (open to all Trucks at the show): This can be any vehicle with any type of custom interior. 
9. Fan Favorite (Chosen on Social Media): Finalists chosen by TRIM Award Judges will be displayed on TMI Social Media channels for audience voting. 
10. Best of Show Champion: Judges will vote on their favorite vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show, crowning it with the TRIM Award's highest honor. 

The TRIM Awards Rules 

To compete for the TRIM awards, entrants must have their vehicles already registered for display at the SEMA Show before registering for the TMI TRIM Awards here. Judging will begin on Tuesday afternoon, October 31, with the announcement of the top 20 vehicles from TMI's SEMA booth. 

The crowning of the TRIM Champion will take place at TMI Products Booth #24477, on Wednesday, November 1, 12:15 p.m. PDT.

Get the complete details and enter here.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) has named Kirstin Backes, sales and marketing program manager at COBB Tuning, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Backes in her interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry? 

Kirstin Backes: I grew up in a family that pursued motorsports all over the board, including off-roading and desert racing. While I did have some fun on the dragstrip and worked in the more "traditional" performance/hot-rod space for years, I found myself drawn more towards off-road adventure in my personal life. Ultimately, I want to help make modifying your truck--whether it's on- or off-road--more accessible and fun for other enthusiasts like me. 

SEMA News: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA?  

KB: As a long-time industry volunteer, volunteering with TORA was a no-brainer. It's important to keep the voice of both enthusiasts and professionals in different parts of the aftermarket in the ear of the association at the board level and beyond, and working with TORA is a great way to do it. For me, that means keeping the focus of the association (and the Show) on where the aftermarket is going without sacrificing the legacy that got us here. I also think it's a great way to make sure that the interests of truck and off-road-focused enthusiasts and businesses are fairly represented when we're facing legislative challenges in things like land use, which can be missed when our market segments get overlooked. 

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?  

KB: Don't be afraid to engage with SEMA beyond the Show in October and November. Get to as many networking events as you can, and get to know the people who work in the aftermarket outside the walls of your own company. It's changed my career trajectory entirely, and I've been lucky to make some great friends along the way.

SN: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle?  

KB: I recently purchased a long-time dream truck of mine--a Toyota Tundra--and I'm loving it more and more with every drive. So far, it's only done the long road trip home and some local exploration in the southeast, but I'm looking forward to a week or so in the desert soon! 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates.   

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Business Members looking to supercharge their network and establish invaluable connections in their market niche can RSVP now for SEMA Show Council and Network events. 

As the industry gathers for the world's largest automotive aftermarket trade event, the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, the council and network events will be the go-to destination for members to forge meaningful relationships with industry peers and leaders in their specialized market segment. The dedicated gatherings make it easy to connect with businesses from almost every automotive niche, whether you are involved in hot rods and restoration, truck and off-road, automotive technology, automotive restyling or wheels and tires. 

There are also customized events for women in the industry and those aged 39 and under, offering a chance for individuals to grow their network and discover resources for enhancing their careers.   

"Networking at the SEMA Show is crucial for growing one's professional network," said Zane Clark, SEMA vice president of membership, education, research and councils and networks. "These events prioritize connections while also providing a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate the industry with friends in the process."  

From receptions and happy hours to meetings and lunches, each event is exclusively crafted to help members of each market segment make the most out of their SEMA Show experience. The inclusive environments allow for engaging conversations where attendees can share experiences and exchange ideas with people who understand their industry inside and out.

Explore the event schedule and RSVP for events at this link.

By Ashley Reyes

Builders and engineers who are featuring a vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31--November 3 in Las Vegas, have until Wednesday, October 25, to submit their entries for the new SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year award. The award will honor and celebrate a build that demonstrates quality engineering throughout the entire vehicle or features an aspect that goes beyond just physical appearance. 

The award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering.

"While vehicle aesthetics have always played a crucial role in the automotive aftermarket, this award recognizes the intricate engineering that transforms a vehicle into a masterpiece of design and functionality," said Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs. "It also sheds light on the technical brilliance behind the build and provides a platform for engineers to showcase their transformative innovations."

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video, description of the engineering content included in the build and the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show into their submission. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 25, at this link.

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central (Booth #10001, Central Hall) on Thursday, November 2, at the SEMA Show.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Show exhibiting companies and industry members have until Monday, October 16, to secure their table at the Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast. The event, to be held on Thursday, November 2, from 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. PDT in West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center, is a staple of the SEMA Show Student Program that connects automotive aftermarket leaders with the industry's future workforce. 

By hosting a table, industry members will be able to share their company's journey and help guide and inspire the next generation of automotive professionals. It also serves as a great recruitment tool and the chance to create quality connections with students eager to jumpstart their automotive careers. 

Participation is free, and the event simply requires one-and-a-half hours from a company representative. No set-up time or marketing materials are required. Register your company here.

Questions can be directed to Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs, at chriss@sema.org or 909-978-6692.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) issued a ruling that automakers cannot use cybersecurity to limit access to critical vehicle repair data in the European Union. The international court victory reinforces the importance of a fair and competitive market for the automotive aftermarket. 

SEMA is monitoring the impacts of the ECJ ruling on our efforts to pass legislation domestically codifying the right to repair and modify motor vehicles in the United States. As many vehicle manufacturers are limiting access to critical repair information and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), SEMA remains steadfast in ensuring that the automotive aftermarket and consumers have the right to choose where they can have their vehicles repaired or modified in the future. 

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Carglass Germany, a subsidiary of Belron, and A.T.U., Germany's largest chain of auto repair shops, against Fiat Chrysler, which became Stellantis after a 2021 merger, in German court. The lawsuit was then referred to the ECJ since it focuses on a United Nations (UN) regulation of cybersecurity after Fiat Chrysler argued they were bound by the UN regulation that requires manufacturers to have cybersecurity defenses in their vehicles.

A key consideration for the ECJ was the importance of cyber security. The court's decision confirms that vehicle manufacturers can adequately address cybersecurity issues without imposing restrictions on the aftermarket, providing the aftermarket industry with legal certainty throughout the European Union.  

The ECJ ruling will have a larger global impact on car manufacturers since 53 other countries follow the UN cybersecurity rule that requires vehicles to be equipped with cybersecurity defenses before they are allowed to be sold in their respective markets. The United States does not enforce the UN regulation domestically, but the ruling may advance SEMA and our coalition partners in our legislative efforts to codify the Right to Repair federally. H.R. 906, REPAIR Act, addresses similar cybersecurity concerns that automakers have used against right-to-repair efforts. 

You can read more about SEMA's efforts on the Right to Repair by visiting sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) issued a ruling that automakers cannot use cybersecurity to limit access to critical vehicle repair data in the European Union. The international court victory reinforces the importance of a fair and competitive market for the automotive aftermarket. 

SEMA is monitoring the impacts of the ECJ ruling on our efforts to pass legislation domestically codifying the right to repair and modify motor vehicles in the United States. As many vehicle manufacturers are limiting access to critical repair information and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), SEMA remains steadfast in ensuring that the automotive aftermarket and consumers have the right to choose where they can have their vehicles repaired or modified in the future. 

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Carglass Germany, a subsidiary of Belron, and A.T.U., Germany's largest chain of auto repair shops, against Fiat Chrysler, which became Stellantis after a 2021 merger, in German court. The lawsuit was then referred to the ECJ since it focuses on a United Nations (UN) regulation of cybersecurity after Fiat Chrysler argued they were bound by the UN regulation that requires manufacturers to have cybersecurity defenses in their vehicles.

A key consideration for the ECJ was the importance of cyber security. The court's decision confirms that vehicle manufacturers can adequately address cybersecurity issues without imposing restrictions on the aftermarket, providing the aftermarket industry with legal certainty throughout the European Union.  

The ECJ ruling will have a larger global impact on car manufacturers since 53 other countries follow the UN cybersecurity rule that requires vehicles to be equipped with cybersecurity defenses before they are allowed to be sold in their respective markets. The United States does not enforce the UN regulation domestically, but the ruling may advance SEMA and our coalition partners in our legislative efforts to codify the Right to Repair federally. H.R. 906, REPAIR Act, addresses similar cybersecurity concerns that automakers have used against right-to-repair efforts. 

You can read more about SEMA's efforts on the Right to Repair by visiting sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair.

By SEMA News Editors

Fluidyne High Performance, the Mooresville, North Carolina-based manufacturer of cooling products, has been acquired by DPI Ventures, a private equity firm. 

"I am delighted to see Fluidyne moving to the next level and I am highly confident Frank will provide our customers with the same amazing products and service our family has for the past 30 years," said former owner Gary Johnson, who led the company with his wife Nancy. 

As part of the announcement, Fluidyne will now be run by Frank Kuperman, Jr., who has more than 25 years in the performance automotive aftermarket and most recently oversaw the Race Winning Brands transmission division. 

"It is my fullest intent to grow Fluidyne to new levels, and I am excited to be a part of such a proud brand," Kuperman said.

Fluidyne has been a provider of some of the industry's finest all-aluminum heat exchangers for over 30 years, including for several elite race teams, including some competing in the NASCAR Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series.

For more information, visit fluidyne.com.

4th Annual Hood Master Event Sets New Records

The 2023 Hood Master event exceeded expectations with a full house of top-notch industry professionals. The Hood Master Challenge started in 2020 as an automotive painting challenge for industry professionals within the automotive painting, refinishing and collision repair industry. 

Guests attended a special event in late September at the Biltwell Event Center in Indianapolis, where they were able to connect with industry members, sponsors, judges and challengers. Additionally, guests met with Dave Kindig of Kindig-It Designs and watched live pinstriping demos from Cory Mroz of Mr. Oz Designs, both featured judges for this year's challenge.

There were 105 hoods and bowling pins on display for the 2023 Hood Master and PiN Master Challenges, including the gallery of select prior winners. More than $22,000 in prizes, including cash, tools and equipment were, awarded to this year's winners. In addition, the FinishMaster Team raised a record-breaking $30,000 for Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) through fundraising efforts.

Airbrush Winners

• 1st Place: Tom Hudach, Urethane Circus
• 2nd Place:⁠ Tom Strait, Perseverance Through Pain
• 3rd Place: Craig "WIZ" McNeil, Melting Pot

Pinstripe⁠ Winners

• 1st Place: Tommy Strader, Endless Summer
• 2nd Place: Kevin Campbell, Purgatory
• 3rd Place: Austin Polen, Turmoil

Overall Winners

• Wild Card: Tom Strait, Perseverance Through Pain
• Crowd Favorite: Tom Hudach, Urethane Circus

FinishMaster expressed its gratitude for the continued support from key industry partners:

• Diamond: 3M, AkzoNobel, Axalta
• Platinum: Smart
• Gold: Norton/St. Gobain, Sagola, SATA
• Silver: Accudraft, DeVilbiss, Dynabrade, Evercoat, GFS--Global Finishing Solutions, Innovative Tools, ProStat, RJE--Business Interiors, SEM, Transtar

"Hood Master--it's awesome! The whole thought behind this thing to get the kids involved and just what we're doing in general is incredible. And with the artwork alone, I'm super impressed--it's phenomenal,” said Keith Bell, Axalta business director, North America and CREF board member.