By Juan Torres

Trevor Wilson’s ’11 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport earned him the Young Guns title at this year’s Silver Lake Jeep Invasion and an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas to compete in SEMA Battle of the Builders.

Trevor Wilson, an on-call firefighter for Fire Station 14 of the Newton Township Fire Department in Michigan, had been looking for the perfect Wrangler to build his dream Jeep, and he found it in 2015 when he came across a ’11 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport with very few modifications and low miles.

The Wrangler was the perfect canvas to build a Jeep with a fire and rescue theme that Wilson could use during a fire emergency. He equipped it with nearly everything that was required by the state of Michigan to be a Basic Life Support ambulance, and even named it “Jeep 14” in representation of where he and his father work.

“Although Jeep 14 is a personally owned vehicle and not directly a part of the Station 14 fleet, my father and I use it to respond to emergencies on a regular basis,” said Wilson, who recently employed the Wrangler during a house fire emergency. “I used three of the onboard fire extinguishers to put out the fire before more extensive property damage could occur. All occupants of the home were safe.”

The modified firefighting Wrangler earned Wilson the Young Guns title at this year’s Silver Lake Jeep Invasion and an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where he will compete in SEMA Battle of the Builders and display Jeep 14 in a designated feature spot—a benefit typically reserved exclusively for exhibitors at the trade-only event.

“It is extremely rewarding to see all of my hard work pay off, especially on the level that is the SEMA Young Guns competition,” said Wilson. “I’m looking forward to proudly representing the Jeep community and young builders at the SEMA Show."

As a promoter of youth automotive programs, Wilson is excited to be a part of the SEMA Young Guns program and put Jeep 14 up against other top builds in the country in Las Vegas.

“The SEMA Young Guns Battle of the Builders helps to drive the interest of young individuals in the automotive industry. I hope to see increased participation from young builders for many years to come,” said Wilson. “I strongly encourage companies within the auto industry to invest in youth programs and to continue promoting our industry’s future.”

The SEMA Young Guns program makes it possible for younger enthusiasts who may not already have a vehicle at the 2018 SEMA Show to network with industry leaders. This year, a total of 14 Young Guns prize packages will be awarded at select regional events throughout the country.

“Young Guns is a strategic initiative that builds excitement and involvement among younger builders in the automotive aftermarket industry,” said SEMA Chairman of the Board Wade Kawasaki. “The reception to the program has been amazing, and we’re thrilled to build upon its success.”

SEMA Show builders interested in gaining national exposure by showcasing their cars and parts through the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition have until Friday, August 31, to register. Only feature or booth vehicles that have been accepted by SEMA for display at the 2018 SEMA Show and are not currently under an embargo at the time of entry will be considered for the 2018 SEMA Battle of the Builders.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Trump Administration has finalized a second list of Chinese products worth $16 billion that will be subject to 25% tariffs beginning August 23. The list covers 279 tariff categories, including many types of plastics.

Since July 6, Customs has been collecting duties on a first list of products valued at $34 billion. The subject product list includes miscellaneous metal and rubber parts for auto equipment, machinery, tools, measurement and medical devices. This list is subject to exclusion requests. Companies may file product exclusion requests at Docket USTR-2018-0025. Such requests should address whether the product is only available from China and whether the imposition of duties will cause severe economic harm. 

In addition to the current tariffs totalling $50 billion, President Trump has threatened 25% tariffs on another $200 billion worth of products from China. The tariffs could be imposed as early as October. The initial list covers hundreds of consumer products, from fish to furniture and apparel. It includes many auto parts, from engines and metal fasteners to tires, steering wheel components, rubber gaskets, transmission belts, brake pads, windshields and suspension springs. The deadline for submitting comments on the third round of tariffs is September 6.

The U.S. tariffs are an attempt to lower the U.S./China trade deficit and to deter cybertheft of intellectual property by Chinese government and companies. Negotiations have stalled to date, and China is imposing retaliatory 25% tariffs totaling about $50 billion. Most of the tariffs imposed by China are for agricultural products, but the list also includes vehicles such as large passenger cars and motorcycles. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Trump Administration has finalized a second list of Chinese products worth $16 billion that will be subject to 25% tariffs beginning August 23. The list covers 279 tariff categories, including many types of plastics.

Since July 6, Customs has been collecting duties on a first list of products valued at $34 billion. The subject product list includes miscellaneous metal and rubber parts for auto equipment, machinery, tools, measurement and medical devices. This list is subject to exclusion requests. Companies may file product exclusion requests at Docket USTR-2018-0025. Such requests should address whether the product is only available from China and whether the imposition of duties will cause severe economic harm. 

In addition to the current tariffs totalling $50 billion, President Trump has threatened 25% tariffs on another $200 billion worth of products from China. The tariffs could be imposed as early as October. The initial list covers hundreds of consumer products, from fish to furniture and apparel. It includes many auto parts, from engines and metal fasteners to tires, steering wheel components, rubber gaskets, transmission belts, brake pads, windshields and suspension springs. The deadline for submitting comments on the third round of tariffs is September 6.

The U.S. tariffs are an attempt to lower the U.S./China trade deficit and to deter cybertheft of intellectual property by Chinese government and companies. Negotiations have stalled to date, and China is imposing retaliatory 25% tariffs totaling about $50 billion. Most of the tariffs imposed by China are for agricultural products, but the list also includes vehicles such as large passenger cars and motorcycles. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Trump Administration has finalized a second list of Chinese products worth $16 billion that will be subject to 25% tariffs beginning August 23. The list covers 279 tariff categories, including many types of plastics.

Since July 6, Customs has been collecting duties on a first list of products valued at $34 billion. The subject product list includes miscellaneous metal and rubber parts for auto equipment, machinery, tools, measurement and medical devices. This list is subject to exclusion requests. Companies may file product exclusion requests at Docket USTR-2018-0025. Such requests should address whether the product is only available from China and whether the imposition of duties will cause severe economic harm. 

In addition to the current tariffs totalling $50 billion, President Trump has threatened 25% tariffs on another $200 billion worth of products from China. The tariffs could be imposed as early as October. The initial list covers hundreds of consumer products, from fish to furniture and apparel. It includes many auto parts, from engines and metal fasteners to tires, steering wheel components, rubber gaskets, transmission belts, brake pads, windshields and suspension springs. The deadline for submitting comments on the third round of tariffs is September 6.

The U.S. tariffs are an attempt to lower the U.S./China trade deficit and to deter cybertheft of intellectual property by Chinese government and companies. Negotiations have stalled to date, and China is imposing retaliatory 25% tariffs totaling about $50 billion. Most of the tariffs imposed by China are for agricultural products, but the list also includes vehicles such as large passenger cars and motorcycles. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

Registration to participate in the 2018 Chevy SEMA Design Awards program is now open.

Chevrolet has announced the return of the Chevy SEMA Design Awards program for 2018.

Registration:

• Register your vehicle before September 14, 2018, for the opportunity to be included in Chevrolet pre-SEMA Show marketing activities.
• All registrations must be received before October 12, 2018, to be considered for an award.
• One wildcard entry will be permitted for registration at the SEMA Show.
• Please email ChevySEMADesignAwardsProgram@gm.com with any questions.

Registration Requirements:

• Provide vehicle description, SEMA display location, and pre- and post-SEMA Show promotional plans.
• Provide rendering and in-process build photos for use on Chevrolet social media.
• Provide final photos (front ¾, rear ¾, engine and interior) prior to the SEMA Show.
• Be willing to support mutually agreed Chevrolet marketing activities after the SEMA Show.

Build Requirements:

• Preservation of the Chevrolet bowtie emblem, if originally equipped, on the front of vehicle.
• Use of a Chevrolet powertrain (mixing or matching fuel types and generations is allowed).
• Use of current body-style Chevrolet vehicles, performance parts, accessories and crate engines is highly encouraged.
• Vehicles with current body styles (i.e., sixth-gen Camaro, seventh-gen Corvette) will be included in the Late-Model award category, in addition to all other categories.

Points of Interest:

• Chevrolet performance parts integration, such as suspension, brake, induction and exhaust systems.
• Chevrolet accessories integration, such as wheels, spoilers and illuminated bowties.
• Chevrolet crate engine integration, specifically connect and cruise packages.
• Innovative new technology integration.

Award Categories:

• Chevy SEMA Late Model Car of the Year.
• Chevy SEMA Late Model Truck of the Year.
• Chevy SEMA Classic of the Year.
• Best use of Chevy Performance Crate Engine.
• Best use of Chevy Performance Parts & Accessories.
• Designers Choice.

Award Benefits:

• Exclusive award presentation hosted by Chevrolet.
• Announcement and coverage of award recipients through Chevrolet media channels.
• Exclusive photo book featuring behind-the-scenes images of GM design.

Note: Winners must provide release and consent as requested by GM, including but not limited to, publication of winner’s work, winner’s name, likeness and voice as a condition to receiving above award benefits. Award benefits subject to change by Chevrolet without notice at Chevrolet’s discretion.

By SEMA Editors

Registration to participate in the 2018 Chevy SEMA Design Awards program is now open.

Chevrolet has announced the return of the Chevy SEMA Design Awards program for 2018.

Registration:

• Register your vehicle before September 14, 2018, for the opportunity to be included in Chevrolet pre-SEMA Show marketing activities.
• All registrations must be received before October 12, 2018, to be considered for an award.
• One wildcard entry will be permitted for registration at the SEMA Show.
• Please email ChevySEMADesignAwardsProgram@gm.com with any questions.

Registration Requirements:

• Provide vehicle description, SEMA display location, and pre- and post-SEMA Show promotional plans.
• Provide rendering and in-process build photos for use on Chevrolet social media.
• Provide final photos (front ¾, rear ¾, engine and interior) prior to the SEMA Show.
• Be willing to support mutually agreed Chevrolet marketing activities after the SEMA Show.

Build Requirements:

• Preservation of the Chevrolet bowtie emblem, if originally equipped, on the front of vehicle.
• Use of a Chevrolet powertrain (mixing or matching fuel types and generations is allowed).
• Use of current body-style Chevrolet vehicles, performance parts, accessories and crate engines is highly encouraged.
• Vehicles with current body styles (i.e., sixth-gen Camaro, seventh-gen Corvette) will be included in the Late-Model award category, in addition to all other categories.

Points of Interest:

• Chevrolet performance parts integration, such as suspension, brake, induction and exhaust systems.
• Chevrolet accessories integration, such as wheels, spoilers and illuminated bowties.
• Chevrolet crate engine integration, specifically connect and cruise packages.
• Innovative new technology integration.

Award Categories:

• Chevy SEMA Late Model Car of the Year.
• Chevy SEMA Late Model Truck of the Year.
• Chevy SEMA Classic of the Year.
• Best use of Chevy Performance Crate Engine.
• Best use of Chevy Performance Parts & Accessories.
• Designers Choice.

Award Benefits:

• Exclusive award presentation hosted by Chevrolet.
• Announcement and coverage of award recipients through Chevrolet media channels.
• Exclusive photo book featuring behind-the-scenes images of GM design.

Note: Winners must provide release and consent as requested by GM, including but not limited to, publication of winner’s work, winner’s name, likeness and voice as a condition to receiving above award benefits. Award benefits subject to change by Chevrolet without notice at Chevrolet’s discretion.

By SEMA Editors

Registration to participate in the 2018 Chevy SEMA Design Awards program is now open.

Chevrolet has announced the return of the Chevy SEMA Design Awards program for 2018.

Registration:

• Register your vehicle before September 14, 2018, for the opportunity to be included in Chevrolet pre-SEMA Show marketing activities.
• All registrations must be received before October 12, 2018, to be considered for an award.
• One wildcard entry will be permitted for registration at the SEMA Show.
• Please email ChevySEMADesignAwardsProgram@gm.com with any questions.

Registration Requirements:

• Provide vehicle description, SEMA display location, and pre- and post-SEMA Show promotional plans.
• Provide rendering and in-process build photos for use on Chevrolet social media.
• Provide final photos (front ¾, rear ¾, engine and interior) prior to the SEMA Show.
• Be willing to support mutually agreed Chevrolet marketing activities after the SEMA Show.

Build Requirements:

• Preservation of the Chevrolet bowtie emblem, if originally equipped, on the front of vehicle.
• Use of a Chevrolet powertrain (mixing or matching fuel types and generations is allowed).
• Use of current body-style Chevrolet vehicles, performance parts, accessories and crate engines is highly encouraged.
• Vehicles with current body styles (i.e., sixth-gen Camaro, seventh-gen Corvette) will be included in the Late-Model award category, in addition to all other categories.

Points of Interest:

• Chevrolet performance parts integration, such as suspension, brake, induction and exhaust systems.
• Chevrolet accessories integration, such as wheels, spoilers and illuminated bowties.
• Chevrolet crate engine integration, specifically connect and cruise packages.
• Innovative new technology integration.

Award Categories:

• Chevy SEMA Late Model Car of the Year.
• Chevy SEMA Late Model Truck of the Year.
• Chevy SEMA Classic of the Year.
• Best use of Chevy Performance Crate Engine.
• Best use of Chevy Performance Parts & Accessories.
• Designers Choice.

Award Benefits:

• Exclusive award presentation hosted by Chevrolet.
• Announcement and coverage of award recipients through Chevrolet media channels.
• Exclusive photo book featuring behind-the-scenes images of GM design.

Note: Winners must provide release and consent as requested by GM, including but not limited to, publication of winner’s work, winner’s name, likeness and voice as a condition to receiving above award benefits. Award benefits subject to change by Chevrolet without notice at Chevrolet’s discretion.

By SEMA Editors

Leah Pritchett is one of four celebrities who have signed pinewood race cars for purchase to benefit SEMA Cares.

Fourteen celebrity-signed pinewood race cars are left for purchase, providing individuals an opportunity to make generous donations to SEMA Cares. Individuals can select a car signed by one of four celebrities, including Aaron Kaufman, Chip Foose, Leah Pritchett and Mario Andretti.

These cars cost $250 and are only available while supplies last.

Purchase one now!

By SEMA Editors

Leah Pritchett is one of four celebrities who have signed pinewood race cars for purchase to benefit SEMA Cares.

Fourteen celebrity-signed pinewood race cars are left for purchase, providing individuals an opportunity to make generous donations to SEMA Cares. Individuals can select a car signed by one of four celebrities, including Aaron Kaufman, Chip Foose, Leah Pritchett and Mario Andretti.

These cars cost $250 and are only available while supplies last.

Purchase one now!

By SEMA Editors

Leah Pritchett is one of four celebrities who have signed pinewood race cars for purchase to benefit SEMA Cares.

Fourteen celebrity-signed pinewood race cars are left for purchase, providing individuals an opportunity to make generous donations to SEMA Cares. Individuals can select a car signed by one of four celebrities, including Aaron Kaufman, Chip Foose, Leah Pritchett and Mario Andretti.

These cars cost $250 and are only available while supplies last.

Purchase one now!