SEMA News—December 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

	Lokar Inc. has added chief engineer Scott Thiel to its product development team.

Lokar Inc. has added chief engineer Scott Thiel to its product development team. Hired in June, Thiel brings to Lokar more than 20 years of experience developing new products and manufacturing processes for the transportation industry. The company reported that he has designed and released products for Warn Industries, Toyota, Nissan, Freightliner, Volvo, Caterpillar and Kenworth. His experience with electro-mechanical devices will help Lokar develop new products that work in conjunction with OEM systems as well as enhance the comfort and function of today’s high-performance vehicles. Lokar Inc., Knoxville, TN; 877-469-7440.

Hypertech Inc. hired Chris Fairless to its direct sales team as the western regional sales manager. Fairless will provide sales, service and marketing support to Hypertech customers in Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, along with additional travel/training responsibilities across the United States and western Canada. Fairless has more than 33 years of industry experience as a manufacturers’ representative, in performance retail sales and working with the performance manufacturing segment of the automotive industry. Fairless represented the Hypertech product line on the West Coast for more than 12 years as a territory sales representative. Hypertech, Bartlett, TN; 901-382-8888.

Parnelli Jones, legendary race car driver and winner of the Indianapolis 500 in 1963, will be part of the 28th annual edition of the Motorsports 2013 Race Car and Trade Show, January 18–20, 2013, at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks, Pennsylvania. Jones’ memoir, As a Matter of Fact, I AM Parnelli Jones, is being written with well-known writer Bones Bourcier and reportedly will be published by Coastal 181 in late fall. Both Jones and Bourcier will be at the Show on Saturday, January 19, to do a question-and-answer session that will allow attendees to learn more about the fantastic career of Jones. Bourcier and Jones will also spend time meeting with fans and autographing copies of the new book, which will be available at the Coastal 181 display.

Former race car driver Tom Gloy won the Goodguys 2012 Tank’s Hot Rod of the Year award for his Brizio Street Rods-built ’32 Ford roadster during the Goodguys 2nd Wix Filters Speedway Nationals. The roadster was conceived during a conversation between Roy Brizio and Gloy as the two drove to the Bonneville Salt Flats. The talk resulted in a challenge to build a channeled, traditionally styled roadster that Gloy could drive low and fast. The top five finalists for the Goodguys 2012 Tank’s Hot Rod of the Year award included Gloy, Incline Village, Nevada; Keith Hill, Bixby, Oklahoma (’34 Ford); Tim Kirby, Fountain Hills, Arizona (’33 Ford); Henry Richards, Mansfield, Ohio (’32 Ford); and Larry Christensen, Arvada, Colorado (’32 Ford).

A&A Midwest Auto Wrecking launched www.aamidwestautowrecking.com a new website. The company reported that the website includes new graphics and increased navigation functions, and it explains the automotive export salvage business that A&A operates in an 80,000-sq.-ft. facility in the Chicago suburb of Blue, Illinois.

	Dale Dobies, exhibit manager for Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance, announced that he will retire on December 31.

Dale Dobies, exhibit manager for Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance, announced that he will retire on December 31. He has coordinated all trade shows, customer open houses, car shows and racing events for Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance for the past 17 years. Dobies first started in the tradeshow business 37 years ago with TRW Automotive Replacement Division in Cleveland, Ohio. His plans for retirement include getting started on a car in his garage in need of restoration, attending swap meets, going on a quest to find the perfect amber ale and helping his daughter in her art studio outside of Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance, Cleveland, OH; 216-688-8300.

Automotive parts supplier Hella recently changed its brand message. The new message, “Technology With Vision,” replaced the company’s 20-year slogan, “Ideas Today for the Cars of Tomorrow.” Hella reported that the new slogan will be gradually introduced worldwide and that the company plans to combine the slogan with the Hella logo in the near future. Hella, Peachtree City, GA; 770-631-7557.

Scosche Industries entered into a new consumer technology partnership with Tint World. Tint World locations now offer Scosche’s line of consumer tech, car audio and portable electronics. “By integrating Scosche’s consumer tech accessories, Tint World will be able to provide customers with a one-stop shop for all of their needs,” said Vince Alves, executive vice president of Scosche Industries. “We want to help companies like Tint World stay at the forefront of consumer technology trends, and we’re excited to offer our products at more specialty retailers.” Scosche Industries, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-4450.

Classic Industries announced that it has partnered with automotive designer Chip Foose to relaunch the “Overhaulin’” TV series. Classic Industries is a restoration partner for the series, including the first episode of the season that featured a ’65 Impala. The revived series made its debut on October 1 on Discovery and is aired on Discovery’s Velocity network for the fall 2012 television season. “‘Overhaulin’’ was a truly important show that pushed automotive restoration to the forefront of TV and put the musclecar hobby in front of a new audience,” said Jeff Leonard, CEO of Classic Industries. “We’re proud to work with Chip Foose to bring ‘Overhaulin’’ back to the air.” Classic Industries, Huntington Beach, CA; 714-847-6887 x5215.

The SPEED TV series “Chop Cut Rebuild” has partnered with DS Media to create a new online web series that began in December. “Chop Cut Rebuild” Online will provide a weekend-warriors’ look at automotive repairs and upgrades. According to the producers of the show, the new online web episodes feature simple and cost-effective projects using aftermarket bolt-on parts. The ccr.tv website will also be refurbished to showcase the new online series as well as additional news and articles. The web videos will primarily focus on the installation and understanding of how to enhance a vehicle’s performance and appearance. DS Media, Corona, CA; 714-334-5799.

Delta Kits reported that longtime company advocate Brian Fenner of Safe Glass Technologies took home the gold medal in the 2012 Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics. As a previous 2008 and 2009 gold medal winner, Fenner went against 10 of the world’s best repair technicians using Delta Kit products. Fenner’s first-place victory earned him a trophy, a gold medal and a check for $10,000. Delta Kits, Eugene, OR; 541-345-8554.

	Wilwood Engineering added Dave Brzozowski—a motorsports veteran with more than 33 years of involvement.

Wilwood Engineering added Dave Brzozowski—a motorsports veteran with more than 33 years of involvement in USAC, World of Outlaws, CART, Champ Car and IRL—to the company’s outside sales team. Brzozowski’s résumé includes working as a mechanic in World of Outlaws, chief mechanic in CART, Champ Car and USAC, Team Manager in Champ Car and IRL, engine builder for Ilmor Mercedes (VDS) Champ Car and, most recently, director of competition for USAC. Brzozowski will support Wilwood’s technical sales effort out of his office in Indianapolis. Wilwood Engineering, Camarillo, CA; 805-388-1188.

Identifix Inc. has named Richard J. Gunderson as its new vice president of business development. He will be responsible for the implementation of the company’s long-term strategic business plan, including expansion into new markets overseas and in the United States, product development and extending sales channels. Identifix reported that Gunderson brings a wealth of expertise to his new position, including his abilities to form strategic alliances, develop and implement new programs and to support market expansion. His most recent position was vice president and general manager at Autodata Publications.

GrindMedia, Source Interlink Media’s sports group, reported that it is acquiring Dirt Sports and Off-Road Industry magazines and related assets from Ryan Communications Group. Jim Ryan will head up the newly formed Dirt Sports Group that will also include current GrindMedia market-leading brands of Dirt Rider, ATV Rider, Endurocross and Motocross.com. GrindMedia also produces leading titles, such as Surfer, Snowboarder and Powder; websites such as grindtv.com and newschoolers.com; and events such as Surfer Poll and Superpark. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

A&A Midwest Cores announced that it has a new website, www.aamidwestcores.com. The company reported that the graphics and navigation functions are improved, and that visitors will learn the value of A&A Midwest’s engine, transmissions and internal parts cores.

	WyoTech has appointed John Allen to the position of vice president of the Long Beach campus.

WyoTech has appointed John Allen to the position of vice president of the Long Beach campus, where he will provide administrative and leadership support to the students and staff. WyoTech reported that Allen has 19 years of experience in the automotive industry. His automotive career began when he became general manager at Strauss Auto, a full-service auto parts and tire chain in New Jersey. In 1999, he was hired as a store manager for EZ Lube, where he moved from managerial positions to vice president of operations and finally vice president of compliance in 2010. WyoTech-Long Beach, Long Beach, CA; 562-624-9530.

Firestone Industrial Products hired Volker Muschel to lead the company’s worldwide automotive OEM sales division. Based in Germany, Muschel is responsible for sales of Firestone’s Airide air springs to strategic light-duty accounts. Prior to joining Firestone, Muschel served as sales manager at Tenneco Automotive for the company’s emissions control product division in Edenkoben, Germany. He also previously worked as the business manager for Peak North America in Troy, Michigan. Firestone Industrial Products, Indianapolis, IN; 800-247-4337.

Infiniti announced that it selected JMPR Public Relations as the agency of record of its products and communications efforts in the United States. JMPR is responsible for media relations activities and will provide strategic brand-building counsel as Infiniti broadens its product line and presence in the performance luxury segment. Infiniti and JMPR will work together to develop and implement creative lifestyle public relations campaigns designed to help Infiniti reach new audiences, utilizing vehicles such as the Infiniti JX. JMPR will also help ramp up communication efforts for Infiniti’s upcoming zero-emissions luxury sedan. JMPR Public Relations, Woodland Hills, CA; 818-992-4353.

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

EVENTS

Fourth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day to Be Celebrated July 12, 2013

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

	Employees of SEMA member Extreme Automotive in Corona, California prepare to cut the cake in celebration of the company’s Collector Car Appreciation Day open house.
	The Crazy Cruisers Car Club gathers to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day in Panama City Beach, Florida.

SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) announced that the next Collector Car Appreciation Day will be celebrated July 12, 2013. The date marks the fourth consecutive commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

SEMA and its councils will once again seek a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.

“The U.S. Senate helped launch Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions each year at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As we prepare for the fourth celebration of our nation’s automotive heritage, enthusiasts and related businesses are already planning open houses, car cruises, club gatherings and educational events throughout the world to mark this annual commemoration. In fact, Collector Car Appreciation Day is quickly taking on a global character, with events held in the United States, Canada and Australia.”

Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) sponsored the previous resolutions. Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and recognize the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.

“Over the past three years, thousands of enthusiasts and collectors have celebrated their hobby at events throughout the country,” said Alex Tainsh, chairman of ARMO. “The event continues to grow in prominence as a summer holiday for the hobby. This year, we look forward to partnering with enthusiasts, car clubs and businesses to make this the largest celebration to date.”

“Collector Car Appreciation Day is an opportunity for hobbyists to share their passion for the automotive hobby, said Rick Love, chairman of HRIA. “Each year, more events are held to raise awareness of the unique educational and economic impact of collector car enthusiasts across the globe.”

SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 909-978-6721 or san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July. 

SEMA News—December 2012 

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

New SEMA Market Update Now Available

Study Examines Q2 2012 Economic Indicators and More

	SEMA Market Update, Q2 2012, is the latest in a series of regularly published reports tracking economic benchmarks and trends affecting the $30 billion specialty-equipment industry.

SEMA members have come to rely on the association’s annual Market Report, a comprehensive research project summarizing economic, sales and new-vehicle trends of the past year affecting the $30 billion automotive specialty-equipment industry. Complete as that report is, however, SEMA backs it up with quarterly updates that track the latest trends and examine “Current Topics” through special sections to arm members with new research or information sources to better understand ongoing industry changes. The latest version, SEMA Market Update, Q2 2012, is now available.

“This report brings together some statistics about the economy, vehicle sales and industry information that’s updated continuously through the year and packaged quarterly,” explained Gavin Knapp, SEMA senior market research manager. “The quarterly update also allows us to put out information that perhaps doesn’t make for a full, freestanding report but nevertheless represents a current topic or area of potential interest to the industry. So, in addition to our regular quarterly trending, we’ve again included a special topics section, this time highlighting SEMA’s Industry Needs survey.

The full SEMA Market Update is of interest to the entire industry, from manufacturing to distribution to retail levels.

“The things that they’ll find include what’s going on with the economy in general, trends that affect retail and trends hitting the auto industry,” Knapp said. “It’s information that every segment of our industry can gain from.”

Mixed Economic Factors

Market Update first looks at such industry indicators as fuel prices, new-vehicle sales, the SEMA Consumer Demand Index for specialty-equipment products and SEMA financial benchmarking for year-to-date sales within the industry. It then focuses on overall economic indicators such as the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment and retail-sales rates, industrial production figures and the condition of the credit market.

For Q2 2012, these indicators presented a mixed message on the economic front. Rising gas prices, the November 2012 election cycle and instability in the job market and overseas economies combined to create palpable uncertainty. Nevertheless, the report found several silver linings amid even these economic clouds. On the economy as a whole, Q2 saw positive growth—not large, but still trending upward from 2009. Sales figures within the specialty-equipment aftermarket seem to have followed suit.

The report tracks such industry indicators as aftermarket sales against growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as auto sales. It predicts a continued rebound in specialty-equipment sales after the decline of 2007–2008.

New vehicle sales continued to rise in Q2 2012, boding well for the aftermarket. Despite rising fuel costs, statistics show that cars lost a small amount of market share to light trucks during the period.

“Consumer interest in our industry has remained rather steady over the last few years,” noted Knapp. “Obviously we’d like to see a big rise, but at least it’s not a decline. Things are sort of rolling along, and this pretty much reflects how consumers are participating in the overall economy as well. They’re just sort of steady.

“The report also contains financial benchmarking, in which we talk to industry companies to see what their results are. We found that, even though there have been some ups and downs in the economy, companies in our industry are indicating that their sales overall are up this year over last year. In addition, their expectations are that they’re going to see some growth over the next quarter.”

Again, however, Market Update identifies several potential challenges for the industry.

“Of course, the 800-lb. gorilla in the room is the price of gasoline, which we check into,” Knapp said. “Our study shows that prices are going up and consumption is going down. Obviously, that’s a trend that affects our industry. It’s not necessarily a death knell, but it’s something that we do want to look at and do want to track, because we know that as gas prices drop, people open their wallets and have more disposable income. They’re more likely to drive more, which can get them more engaged in their vehicles. By contrast, less enthusiasm in their vehicles may translate to less enthusiasm for the aftermarket.”

Unfortunately, Q2 unemployment also remained relatively high compared with historical rates. Current projections indicate continued improvement, but not quick or dramatic.

“It’s going to take a few years before we get back to where we were in previous years,” Knapp predicted. “However, we do see that income and spending have been on the rise, and those are also some positive indicators for us.”

Comparisons and Contrasts

In the area of consumer spending, Market Update provides some interesting comparisons with other types of retail beyond the automotive specialty-equipment marketplace. According to SEMA research, retail in general has been on a steady climb since 2009. Broad auto-parts retail—not just the specialty-equipment sector—has likewise seen overall growth during that period, although with a few more ups and downs than retail in general. And, while there was a slight drop in the retail and auto-parts graphs at the beginning of 2012, the numbers still remain much higher than they were in 2008.

“These first couple of months are not necessarily an indication that there’s a continued downward trend,” explained Knapp. “For comparison, we also look at other discretionary income spent by consumers—for instance, in electronics and appliance stores. This is a sector that hasn’t seen renewed growth. Obviously, some of this reflects retail stores; some of it can be blamed on the Internet. That’s something that we should be watching in our industry, too, because the same type of shift might happen to us as well. However, if you look at other discretionary spending—sporting goods, hobby stores, music stores—they have seen the same positive growth that the industry as a whole is seeing. We can learn from that.”

The report notes real growth in the GDP index. Economists project continued steady growth for the U.S. economy over the next several years.

Market Update also tracks consumer consumption vs. income. The research indicates that consumer spending has grown faster than actual rebound in income.

Turning to industrial production figures, Market Update shows them actually rising to the point of pre-recession levels. In fact, when full motor-vehicle and parts figures are added to the mix, the overall picture is better than in 2007. This indicates that the nation is seeing a big resurgence from a manufacturing point of view.

		Executive Summary According to SEMA Market Update, Q2 2012, the second quarter of the year continued to send mixed messages on the economic recovery, although the U.S. economy was still forecasted to grow over the next few years. Disposable income continued to rise, helping to offset changes in gas prices. Instability in the job market and overseas economies, along with the November elections, created additional uncertainty. On the plus side, automotive indicators continued to show strong growth, with another boost in Q2 new-vehicle sales.

On the credit front, the report found that loan rates, including bank auto-loan rates, have continued to fall. Moreover, financial obligations among the general population have also declined, leading to increased savings.

“People are owing less money and therefore have less debt hanging over their heads,” said Knapp. “On the one hand, that might mean loans are harder to get, so it’s harder to buy a new car. On the other hand, having less debt may open some disposable income.”

Another interesting aspect of the report centers upon how that disposable income is being spent on new vehicles. Tracking new-vehicle sales and the types of vehicles currently being purchased, Market Update finds that the passenger car segment lost a small amount of market share to light trucks during the second quarter. According to Knapp, the crossover segment continues to hold steady amid gas price fluctuations, as do SUVs, although the latter comprise a much smaller portion of the market.

Current Topics: Needs Survey

In addition to economic and market snapshots, each quarterly SEMA Market Update tackles a current topic. For Q2 2012, SEMA’s research team chose to focus attention on the annual SEMA Industry Needs Survey—a project intended to help the association and its members better understand challenges facing the industry at large. Invitations to participate in the yearly survey were sent to all of SEMA’s industry contacts, members and non-members.

“This is actually one of our SEMA projects where we go out and interview several thousand people working in our industry and ask them about a variety of topics, including the economic challenges they face,” explained Knapp, who also noted that half the respondents ended up being SEMA members.

The survey identified 10 issues at the forefront of industry minds, ranging from the increasing costs of business to keeping up with emerging vehicle technologies. As might be expected, the list closely reflected general concerns about the economy, but it displayed several positive concerns as well.

Another upbeat indicator for the industry: Most companies surveyed said that they will likely hire new employees this year. Sales jobs topped the list of potential hires.

Each quarterly Market Update includes a “Current Topics” section. The Q2 report focuses on SEMA’s recent Industry Needs Survey. Industry respondents cited increasing costs as number one among their top 10 challenges.

“People are looking for new markets and opportunities,” Knapp said. “They’re looking at keeping up with vehicle technologies, not simply that costs are increasing or that there’s a tough economy. Once again, there’s a forward-thinking outlook: People are asking what they can do to increase their business and not just hold on.”

In addition, respondents were asked about their sales expectations for 2012. Approximately two-thirds said that they anticipated sales to be up over 2011 levels. Asked about business cycles and new hires, a full 80% said that they expected their businesses to take on new employees.

“That’s a good number that points to growth,” said Knapp. “In the report, finding qualified employees also shows up as one of the big challenges. That’s a positive for our industry—it underscores that people are looking to hire at this point.”

SEMA’s researchers further asked respondents what they’re doing about marketing, especially in the digital arena. A large percentage—roughly two-thirds—said that they plan to shift at least some of their resources toward the digital world.

Obtaining Your Copy

Whatever your business within the specialty-equipment marketplace, you’ll find SEMA Market Update, Q2 2012 a valuable resource. The report is available free to SEMA members ($199.99 for non-members). To download your copy, go to www.SEMA.org/research and see 2012 SEMA Market Update–Q2 under the “Recent Research Reports.”