By Amanda Gubbins

With an overall emphasis on advanced safety technologies and efficiency improvements, the LA Auto Show set the stage this week for new model debuts and concept vehicles from top OEMs. Here’s a look at what’s new and specifically relevant for the specialty-equipment market.

(Note: For the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, read “All-New 2018 Jeep Wrangler Introduced.”).

2018 Lexus RX L Models

The new RX L models offer many of the same safety features that Lexus demoed on the LS prior to the opening of the LA Auto Show.

The new RX L models offer many of the same safety features that Lexus demoed on the LS prior to the opening of the LA Auto Show. The Standard Lexus Safety System+ includes the pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, intelligent high beams and all-speed dynamic radar cruise control. Blind-spot monitor and with intuitive parking assist and rear cross-traffic braking are also available. Panoramic view monitor is another optional feature.

The the addition of a third seating row is the biggest change for the '18 RX L models. Lexus extended the body length by 4.3 in. at the rear and used a steeper tailgate window angle to ensure enough headroom for third row passengers. The standard seven-seat version uses a 40/20/40 split bench-type second row seat, and access to the third row is made easy with a lever that slides and folds the second seat forward. The available six-seat configuration features second-row captain’s chairs that give third-row “walk-in” access. The positioning of the second row is slightly higher than the third row, creating more foot room for rear passengers.

The '18 Lexus RX 350L’s 3.5L V6 employs the advanced D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct and port fuel injection systems. Variable Valve Timing—Intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) is used on the intake camshaft, along with VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft, allowing the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles. The result is 290 hp and 263 lb.-ft. of torque, with performance and efficiency optimized by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Using Drive Mode Select, the RX 350L driver can exert more control by choosing from among three driving modes: Normal, Sport or Eco. The RX 350L is available with front-wheel drive or available Dynamic Torque Control All Wheel Drive.

The '18 Lexus RX 450hL’s hybrid drive system pairs the D4-S injection 3.5L V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators, producing 308 combined system horsepower for strong acceleration and passing performance. The standard AWD system uses an independent rear-mounted electric motor to drive the rear wheels when needed for optimal traction. In the RX 450hL, the Drive Mode Select system adds a fourth mode, EV, that enables the vehicle to drive under electric power at lower speeds for short distances.

2018 Nissan Kicks

	Every ’18 Kicks comes with a standard 1.6L DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System.

Nissan’s new ’18 Kicks will become the sixth member of the Nissan crossover and SUV lineup when it hits Nissan U.S. dealerships in June 2018.

The exterior design blends bold wheel arch fenders and a high crossover stance with familiar Nissan design signatures, including a V-Motion grille, boomerang headlights and taillights, and a floating roof with a “wrap-around visor” look. Available exterior features include standard Intelligent Auto Headlights (I-AH) and available LED low-beam headlights with LED signature accents.

The ’18 Kicks will be offered in seven exterior colors, plus five two-tone combinations. Three of the two-tone schemes utilize a black roof and contrasting body colors (white, orange or red). Also available: an orange roof with a gray body, or a white roof with a blue body.

Every ’18 Kicks comes with a standard 1.6L DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS). The engine is rated at 125 hp and 115 lb.-ft. of torque. Aided by a smooth and efficient Xtronic transmission, the Kicks is expected to have a fuel economy rating 33 mpg combined. Kicks is offered in front-wheel-drive only. Safety, security and driver convenience features are strong points for the Nissan Kicks.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is standard on all grade levels, along with seven air bags and RearView Monitor. Kicks SV and Kicks SR add Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The ’18 Nissan Kicks will be offered in three models—Kicks S, Kicks SV and Kicks SR. 

Mazda revealed its four-door concept Vision Coupe.

Mazda Vision Coupe

Mazda revealed its Vision Coupe, a four-door concept car designed with elegance in mind, as well as efficiency and unity between car and driver, according to Managing Executive Officer Ikuo Maeda. The exterior design keeps a smooth line from front to rear, with the cabin further back, and simplifies the body for a simple, sleek look.

Inside the Vision Coupe, structural forms such as the center console, door trim and instrument panel intersect with one another without touching. The model offers a see-through screen that functions as a display only when needed so it doesn’t intrude on the driver’s view. The cockpit is symmetrical, with steering centered in the middle and everything else to the left and right, designed so the driver can sense the central axis of the car. Drivers can bring up information with the touch of the center console.

2018 Hyundai Kona

The U.S.-production version of Hyundai’s Kona crossover rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai’s first B-segment crossover for the U.S. market. Kona’s “urban smart armor” exterior styling features aggressive body styling complemented by a low and wide stance for confident handling.

The U.S.-production version of Hyundai’s Kona crossover rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai’s first B-segment crossover for the U.S. market.

Contrasting black armor provides a protective skin and visually connects the front to the rear. The slim brake lights, turn indicators and reverse lamps are in a separate configuration, surrounded by protective skin that begins at the C-pillar garnish.

A number of extroverted color variations, such as Chalk White, Ultra Black, Sonic Silver, Thunder Gray, Pulse Red, Surf Blue and Lime Twist, are available to buyers. The roof is finished with an optional color-contrasting color scheme.

Kona is available with a choice of two gasoline powertrains. A 2.0L four-cylinder Atkinson engine produces 147hp at 6200 rpm and 132 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Limited and Ultimate trims offer the Gamma 1.6L four-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine generating 175 hp at 5,500 rpm and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500-4,500 rpm, an advantage over its key competitors. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-rpm responsiveness and performance in everyday driving conditions.

A whole host of advanced safety features are also available, including a Lane-Keeping Assist system, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Lane Change Assist, Parking Distance Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection.

Kona models will be available at Hyundai dealers in the first quarter of 2018.

Future Toyota Adventure Concept

The Future Toyota Adventure Concept (FT-AC) is a gasoline-powered vehicle with an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system that was designed around a long wheelbase and wide track to help emphasize its powerful stance.

Although currently a design experiment, the Future Toyota Adventure Concept (FT-AC) has been imagined as a thoroughly capable gasoline-powered vehicle with an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This enables power to be routed, as needed, for excellent control and maximum traction. Variable terrain-response settings and four-wheel lock functionality build on its capability by managing traction control and throttle response to maximize grip at each wheel for a more dynamic driving experience. FT-AC could also offer a next-generation hybrid powertrain to blend fuel efficiency with rugged AWD grunt.

FT-AC was designed around a long wheelbase and wide track to help emphasize its powerful stance. Extra wide fender flares provide body shielding and look as if they float above the 20-in. wheels and all-terrain tires. Generous ground clearance provides drivers with more options as to where FT-AC can go. Below, FT-AC has twin hooks for vehicle recovery and skid plates help protect the short front and rear overhangs.

The pronounced front grille is flanked with LED headlights. Fog lights can be taken out from their pods and used as portable lights or attached to a mountain bike. The infrared cameras on the side mirrors can record trail runs and also be removed and mounted off-vehicle. LED marker lights at its front corners can provide ambient lighting around the vehicle, brighten the trail ahead or act as a flash for the side mirrors’ embedded cameras.

An integrated Wi-Fi hotspot automatically uploads camera footage to cloud-based storage where real-time editing and posting can be accessed via mobile device. The Wi-Fi connectivity even gives adventure-goers the ability to livestream the fun to fans and followers.

By Amanda Gubbins

With an overall emphasis on advanced safety technologies and efficiency improvements, the LA Auto Show set the stage this week for new model debuts and concept vehicles from top OEMs. Here’s a look at what’s new and specifically relevant for the specialty-equipment market.

(Note: For the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, read “All-New 2018 Jeep Wrangler Introduced.”).

2018 Lexus RX L Models

The new RX L models offer many of the same safety features that Lexus demoed on the LS prior to the opening of the LA Auto Show.

The new RX L models offer many of the same safety features that Lexus demoed on the LS prior to the opening of the LA Auto Show. The Standard Lexus Safety System+ includes the pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, intelligent high beams and all-speed dynamic radar cruise control. Blind-spot monitor and with intuitive parking assist and rear cross-traffic braking are also available. Panoramic view monitor is another optional feature.

The the addition of a third seating row is the biggest change for the '18 RX L models. Lexus extended the body length by 4.3 in. at the rear and used a steeper tailgate window angle to ensure enough headroom for third row passengers. The standard seven-seat version uses a 40/20/40 split bench-type second row seat, and access to the third row is made easy with a lever that slides and folds the second seat forward. The available six-seat configuration features second-row captain’s chairs that give third-row “walk-in” access. The positioning of the second row is slightly higher than the third row, creating more foot room for rear passengers.

The '18 Lexus RX 350L’s 3.5L V6 employs the advanced D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct and port fuel injection systems. Variable Valve Timing—Intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) is used on the intake camshaft, along with VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft, allowing the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles. The result is 290 hp and 263 lb.-ft. of torque, with performance and efficiency optimized by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Using Drive Mode Select, the RX 350L driver can exert more control by choosing from among three driving modes: Normal, Sport or Eco. The RX 350L is available with front-wheel drive or available Dynamic Torque Control All Wheel Drive.

The '18 Lexus RX 450hL’s hybrid drive system pairs the D4-S injection 3.5L V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators, producing 308 combined system horsepower for strong acceleration and passing performance. The standard AWD system uses an independent rear-mounted electric motor to drive the rear wheels when needed for optimal traction. In the RX 450hL, the Drive Mode Select system adds a fourth mode, EV, that enables the vehicle to drive under electric power at lower speeds for short distances.

2018 Nissan Kicks

	Every ’18 Kicks comes with a standard 1.6L DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System.

Nissan’s new ’18 Kicks will become the sixth member of the Nissan crossover and SUV lineup when it hits Nissan U.S. dealerships in June 2018.

The exterior design blends bold wheel arch fenders and a high crossover stance with familiar Nissan design signatures, including a V-Motion grille, boomerang headlights and taillights, and a floating roof with a “wrap-around visor” look. Available exterior features include standard Intelligent Auto Headlights (I-AH) and available LED low-beam headlights with LED signature accents.

The ’18 Kicks will be offered in seven exterior colors, plus five two-tone combinations. Three of the two-tone schemes utilize a black roof and contrasting body colors (white, orange or red). Also available: an orange roof with a gray body, or a white roof with a blue body.

Every ’18 Kicks comes with a standard 1.6L DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS). The engine is rated at 125 hp and 115 lb.-ft. of torque. Aided by a smooth and efficient Xtronic transmission, the Kicks is expected to have a fuel economy rating 33 mpg combined. Kicks is offered in front-wheel-drive only. Safety, security and driver convenience features are strong points for the Nissan Kicks.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is standard on all grade levels, along with seven air bags and RearView Monitor. Kicks SV and Kicks SR add Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The ’18 Nissan Kicks will be offered in three models—Kicks S, Kicks SV and Kicks SR. 

Mazda revealed its four-door concept Vision Coupe.

Mazda Vision Coupe

Mazda revealed its Vision Coupe, a four-door concept car designed with elegance in mind, as well as efficiency and unity between car and driver, according to Managing Executive Officer Ikuo Maeda. The exterior design keeps a smooth line from front to rear, with the cabin further back, and simplifies the body for a simple, sleek look.

Inside the Vision Coupe, structural forms such as the center console, door trim and instrument panel intersect with one another without touching. The model offers a see-through screen that functions as a display only when needed so it doesn’t intrude on the driver’s view. The cockpit is symmetrical, with steering centered in the middle and everything else to the left and right, designed so the driver can sense the central axis of the car. Drivers can bring up information with the touch of the center console.

2018 Hyundai Kona

The U.S.-production version of Hyundai’s Kona crossover rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai’s first B-segment crossover for the U.S. market. Kona’s “urban smart armor” exterior styling features aggressive body styling complemented by a low and wide stance for confident handling.

The U.S.-production version of Hyundai’s Kona crossover rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai’s first B-segment crossover for the U.S. market.

Contrasting black armor provides a protective skin and visually connects the front to the rear. The slim brake lights, turn indicators and reverse lamps are in a separate configuration, surrounded by protective skin that begins at the C-pillar garnish.

A number of extroverted color variations, such as Chalk White, Ultra Black, Sonic Silver, Thunder Gray, Pulse Red, Surf Blue and Lime Twist, are available to buyers. The roof is finished with an optional color-contrasting color scheme.

Kona is available with a choice of two gasoline powertrains. A 2.0L four-cylinder Atkinson engine produces 147hp at 6200 rpm and 132 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Limited and Ultimate trims offer the Gamma 1.6L four-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine generating 175 hp at 5,500 rpm and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500-4,500 rpm, an advantage over its key competitors. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,500 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-rpm responsiveness and performance in everyday driving conditions.

A whole host of advanced safety features are also available, including a Lane-Keeping Assist system, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Lane Change Assist, Parking Distance Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection.

Kona models will be available at Hyundai dealers in the first quarter of 2018.

Future Toyota Adventure Concept

The Future Toyota Adventure Concept (FT-AC) is a gasoline-powered vehicle with an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system that was designed around a long wheelbase and wide track to help emphasize its powerful stance.

Although currently a design experiment, the Future Toyota Adventure Concept (FT-AC) has been imagined as a thoroughly capable gasoline-powered vehicle with an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This enables power to be routed, as needed, for excellent control and maximum traction. Variable terrain-response settings and four-wheel lock functionality build on its capability by managing traction control and throttle response to maximize grip at each wheel for a more dynamic driving experience. FT-AC could also offer a next-generation hybrid powertrain to blend fuel efficiency with rugged AWD grunt.

FT-AC was designed around a long wheelbase and wide track to help emphasize its powerful stance. Extra wide fender flares provide body shielding and look as if they float above the 20-in. wheels and all-terrain tires. Generous ground clearance provides drivers with more options as to where FT-AC can go. Below, FT-AC has twin hooks for vehicle recovery and skid plates help protect the short front and rear overhangs.

The pronounced front grille is flanked with LED headlights. Fog lights can be taken out from their pods and used as portable lights or attached to a mountain bike. The infrared cameras on the side mirrors can record trail runs and also be removed and mounted off-vehicle. LED marker lights at its front corners can provide ambient lighting around the vehicle, brighten the trail ahead or act as a flash for the side mirrors’ embedded cameras.

An integrated Wi-Fi hotspot automatically uploads camera footage to cloud-based storage where real-time editing and posting can be accessed via mobile device. The Wi-Fi connectivity even gives adventure-goers the ability to livestream the fun to fans and followers.

This year, the SEMA Board of Directors has openings for two seats in the Manufacturers category, two seats in the Distributors/Retailers category and one seat in the Services category.

The following is a message from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting:

As a member of the association, your recommendation is needed for industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the SEMA Board, but oftentimes those individuals aren’t immediately apparent to the Nominating Committee when selecting the final candidates.

Please take a moment to tell us about whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position. We also ask that you include information to help the Nominating Committee know more about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements from a leadership standpoint.

For this year’s election, the following seats are open:

• Two seats in the Manufacturers category
• Two seats in the Distributors/Retailers category
• One seat in the Services category

Nominations for the 2018 SEMA Board of Directors are due Thursday, January 4, 2018. Please complete and submit the nomination form, and be sure to include the qualification information noted above.

A strong board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. We urge you to take part in the nominations process.

Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Chris Kersting, CAE
SEMA President and CEO

This year, the SEMA Board of Directors has openings for two seats in the Manufacturers category, two seats in the Distributors/Retailers category and one seat in the Services category.

The following is a message from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting:

As a member of the association, your recommendation is needed for industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the SEMA Board, but oftentimes those individuals aren’t immediately apparent to the Nominating Committee when selecting the final candidates.

Please take a moment to tell us about whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position. We also ask that you include information to help the Nominating Committee know more about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements from a leadership standpoint.

For this year’s election, the following seats are open:

• Two seats in the Manufacturers category
• Two seats in the Distributors/Retailers category
• One seat in the Services category

Nominations for the 2018 SEMA Board of Directors are due Thursday, January 4, 2018. Please complete and submit the nomination form, and be sure to include the qualification information noted above.

A strong board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. We urge you to take part in the nominations process.

Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Chris Kersting, CAE
SEMA President and CEO

SEMA’s Tom Gattuso and Peter MacGillivry explain the “magic” behind the SEMA Show and how everything is put together.

SEMA’s Tom Gattuso and Peter MacGillivry explain the “magic” behind the SEMA Show and how everything is put together.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Howard Laster

Howard Laster Named to Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association Board of Governors

Continental Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket has announced that Howard Laster, head of aftermarket – North America Continental Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket (CVAM), has been named to the Board of Governors of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA). As a member of AASA Board of Governors, Laster has been tasked with working with the senior leadership team to establish short-term and long-term goals for the association and its councils. Laster will also work to oversee and advise the various AASA councils, which include the AASA Intellectual Property Council, Brake Manufacturers Council, Marketing Executive Council and the Overseas Automotive Council. Laster has been with Continental for more than 22 years, serving in a variety of executive and sales management roles. He is responsible for overall business strategy, product quality and performance, along with the development of effective sales and marketing activities in North America for the Continental ATE and VDO brand of products.

ZF Expands Development Capabilities for Autonomous Driving

ZF Friedrichshafen AG is expanding its development competences in the autonomous driving field. On December 1, 20 developers from the IEE Sensing Germany GmbH, based in Kösching, Germany, will become part of the ZF Group and work for ZF’s subsidiary Zukunft Ventures under the name “Zukunft Mobility.” IEE Sensing Germany GmbH specializes in the development of functions for driver assistance, integrated vehicle safety and autonomous driving. Its 20 employees include computer scientists, physicists and software developers, who will be working on developing these functions for the future, particularly in the sensor and software development sectors, and the simulation and test procedures, to make them ready for production. With the new location in Kösching, ZF also gains direct access to the A9 testing ground and can test autonomous driving in real traffic conditions.

Bob Miller (left) and Kyle Fischer (right).

Lubrication Specialties Inc. Names Kyle Fischer Director of Marketing, Bob Miller Director of Sales

Lubrication Specialties Inc. (LSI) has announced that two key management positions have been filled—director of marketing and director of sales. Both positions were filled prior to the 2017 AAPEX Show in Las Vegas and in time for 2018 planning. Robert “Bob” Miller recently was hired as director of sales to work with developing distribution of Hot Shot’s Secret sales through the company’s network of manufacturer representatives. Miller will also work directly with the company’s retail accounts to introduce new products, promotions and training. Prior to accepting his position at LSI, Miller served as the national sales manager for WVNO/WRGM radio and WOHZ/WMFD TV in Mansfield, Ohio. Kyle Fischer, LSI’s new director of marketing, has close to 20 years of experience in marketing, sales and management positions. Prior to joining LSI, Fischer served as the regional marketing manager for Trident Marketing, where he oversaw lead generation, trade shows and business development partnership programs while effectively growing his territory to be the top market for sales and revenue.

Automotive Events Inc. Appoints New President

Automotive Events Inc. has named Iain Dobson company president, effective November 27. Previously, Dobson served as Automotive Events’ senior vice president for 14 years. He led the company’s production services division, overseeing logistical design, product training, testing and substantiation services and all performance and related programming. Dobson took over the post from John Thorne, who still serves as the company’s chief executive officer. Prior to Automotive Events, Dobson served as general manager of Atkinsons Motorsports and as an editor of Motoring News.

RPT Distributing Joins The AAM Group as Distribution Member

The AAM Group has announced the addition of RPT Distributing as its 21st member company. Offering more than 125 product lines and maintaining more than 100,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, RPT services multiple states from its Brandon, Mississippi, headquarters.

Howell EFI Announces New Mobile-Friendly, Interactive E-commerce Website

Howell EFI has launched an all-new, mobile-friendly, interactive e-commerce website. The new platform now features a blog with updated tech information, tips for successful stress-free installation, customer experiences and the latest industry news. The new e-commerce website is also designed to allow the company to interact directly with customers online to assist with their purchase decisions or provide immediate customer service online from the website. The e-commerce site allows customers to buy directly with a secured shopping cart and to develop a personal online account to track orders.

CRP Automotive has named Ken Edwards (center) of Kanmar Inc. its 2017 Rep Agent of the Year.

CRP Automotive Presents Ken Edwards 2017 Rep Agent of the Year Award

CRP Automotive has named Ken Edwards of Kanmar Inc. its 2017 Rep Agent of the Year. Edwards is the President of Kanmar Inc., a Canadian sales agency representing OE and aftermarket manufacturers in the automotive and heavy-duty industries. Edwards received the 2017 Rep Agent of the Year Award from CRP Automotive for helping the company grow its business in the Canadian market. Edwards, a former CRP Automotive employee, has represented CRP Automotive as an agent since 2008. Edwards served as an employee of CRP Industries Canada from 2005 until 2008. Kanmar Inc. was incorporated in 2008 and Edwards represents CRP Automotive and all of its brands, working primarily in the Ontario, Canada, area.

DENSO and NEC Establish Joint Venture to Develop Essential Connectivity Technologies

DENSO Corp. and NEC Platforms Ltd. have unveiled a new joint venture, DENSO NEXT CO. LTD. The company will develop in-vehicle information and communications equipment critical for fostering a connected environment inside vehicles, such as instrument clusters, heads-up displays and onboard communication equipment. The company will start operations December 1. DENSO NEXT will harness DENSO’s automotive engineering and manufacturing capabilities and NEC Group’s technologies and track record in the information and communications technology (ICT) business to design and bring to market advanced in-vehicle equipment. DENSO NEXT will be located on the premises of NEC’s Tamagawa Plant in Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan. The innovations developed by DENSO and NEC Platforms engineers will enable DENSO to more efficiently produce existing information and communications equipment, and to create new products in line with vehicle cockpit advancements.

National Auto Parts Warehouse Announces Its Third Acquisition of 2017

National Auto Parts Warehouse (NPW) companies has announced its third acquisition for 2017—Associate Jobbers Warehouse operations in Boaz, Alabama. The deal is set to close after the turn of the New Year. With this purchase, NPW now has a facility that services Alabama, Western Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Louisiana, South Carolina, Kentucky, Arkansas and Mississippi.         

Meyer Distributing Adds Highway Products

Meyer Distributing has added Highway Products to its offering in the commercial and truck segments. Highway Products product line includes truck boxes, headache racks, bed rails, truck slides, a full line of semi boxes and semi accessories, as well as service bodies and flat beds. 

NTB Tire & Service Centers Expansion Continues

The NTB Tire & Service Centers (NTB) brand has expanded over the past two years. TBC Corp., parent company to NTB, has opened 27 new NTB locations and relocated four over the past 20 months. TBC Corp. will open an additional seven stores over the next five months. NTB provides a broad range of automotive maintenance and tire services to customers at more than 450 retail locations in 23 states.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

Participants of the 2018 SEMA Middle East Business Development Program will exhibit at the Abu Dhabi-based Custom Show Emirates. In Australia, participants will exhibit at the Melbourne-based MotorEx show. Program fees for each event include a turnkey booth, hotels and meals. Federal grants are available for qualified companies.

SEMA will host a business-development program conference call, December 13, at 10:00 a.m. (PST), for members who want to learn more about trips to two promising overseas markets—Australia and the Middle East. Hear from SEMA's international department and fellow members who have participated in prior business-development programs. Topics will include information about the venues, with whom attendees will meet, turnkey booth details, costs and available federal grants.

Contact Kristin Atwan at kristina@sema.org to obtain the conference call-in numbers.

SEMA Middle East—Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), April 3–8

Participants can learn the potential for their products in the customizing-crazy UAE and surrounding region (buyers attended the 2017 event from 11 countries), where consumers are eager to get the latest U.S. products for classic-car restoration, off-roading, racing, street performance and aesthetics. High disposable income coupled with a passion for personalization make this an attractive region.

Exhibitor registration.

SEMA Australia—Melbourne, Australia, May 24–28

Participants can explore this market of true gearheads and the opportunities for manufacturers of sought-after products for SUVs/pickups, street performance and racing. Sales of the new Ford Mustang are red-hot, and rumor has it that Australia has more hot rodders per capita than anywhere else in the world.

Exhibitor registration.

U.S. government support is available for qualified companies. Slots are limited, so register now.

For more information, or to schedule a conference call to discuss the SEMA Business Development Program, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

Participants of the 2018 SEMA Middle East Business Development Program will exhibit at the Abu Dhabi-based Custom Show Emirates. In Australia, participants will exhibit at the Melbourne-based MotorEx show. Program fees for each event include a turnkey booth, hotels and meals. Federal grants are available for qualified companies.

SEMA will host a business-development program conference call, December 13, at 10:00 a.m. (PST), for members who want to learn more about trips to two promising overseas markets—Australia and the Middle East. Hear from SEMA's international department and fellow members who have participated in prior business-development programs. Topics will include information about the venues, with whom attendees will meet, turnkey booth details, costs and available federal grants.

Contact Kristin Atwan at kristina@sema.org to obtain the conference call-in numbers.

SEMA Middle East—Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), April 3–8

Participants can learn the potential for their products in the customizing-crazy UAE and surrounding region (buyers attended the 2017 event from 11 countries), where consumers are eager to get the latest U.S. products for classic-car restoration, off-roading, racing, street performance and aesthetics. High disposable income coupled with a passion for personalization make this an attractive region.

Exhibitor registration.

SEMA Australia—Melbourne, Australia, May 24–28

Participants can explore this market of true gearheads and the opportunities for manufacturers of sought-after products for SUVs/pickups, street performance and racing. Sales of the new Ford Mustang are red-hot, and rumor has it that Australia has more hot rodders per capita than anywhere else in the world.

Exhibitor registration.

U.S. government support is available for qualified companies. Slots are limited, so register now.

For more information, or to schedule a conference call to discuss the SEMA Business Development Program, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

Participants of the 2018 SEMA Middle East Business Development Program will exhibit at the Abu Dhabi-based Custom Show Emirates. In Australia, participants will exhibit at the Melbourne-based MotorEx show. Program fees for each event include a turnkey booth, hotels and meals. Federal grants are available for qualified companies.

SEMA will host a business-development program conference call, December 13, at 10:00 a.m. (PST), for members who want to learn more about trips to two promising overseas markets—Australia and the Middle East. Hear from SEMA's international department and fellow members who have participated in prior business-development programs. Topics will include information about the venues, with whom attendees will meet, turnkey booth details, costs and available federal grants.

Contact Kristin Atwan at kristina@sema.org to obtain the conference call-in numbers.

SEMA Middle East—Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), April 3–8

Participants can learn the potential for their products in the customizing-crazy UAE and surrounding region (buyers attended the 2017 event from 11 countries), where consumers are eager to get the latest U.S. products for classic-car restoration, off-roading, racing, street performance and aesthetics. High disposable income coupled with a passion for personalization make this an attractive region.

Exhibitor registration.

SEMA Australia—Melbourne, Australia, May 24–28

Participants can explore this market of true gearheads and the opportunities for manufacturers of sought-after products for SUVs/pickups, street performance and racing. Sales of the new Ford Mustang are red-hot, and rumor has it that Australia has more hot rodders per capita than anywhere else in the world.

Exhibitor registration.

U.S. government support is available for qualified companies. Slots are limited, so register now.

For more information, or to schedule a conference call to discuss the SEMA Business Development Program, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.