Buyers are already registered from eight countries, including Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland as well as the United Kingdom, Netherlands and Belgium to meet with U.S. brands traveling on the inaugural SEMA Nordic trip, scheduled for August 24–28, in Stockholm Sweden.  

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet officials of the European Drag Racing Series and more.

Exhibit at a SEMA table-top show and at festival sponsored by Sweden’s largest distributor, visit distributors, retailers and garages of performance and classic car restoration, attend the famed Swedish classic car cruise, meet officials of the European Drag Racing Series and more!

Prices start at $3,860 and include meals, hotel and exhibition costs (with the immediate $1,200 federal grant for qualified companies). Additional state funding may also be available.

Schedule:

Wednesday, August 24

• Evening opening dinner and trade buyer panel.

Thursday, August 25

• U.S. government briefing breakfast.
• One-on-one meetings with trade buyers.
• Evening networking event.

Friday, August 26

• Tour resellers/workshops.
• Dinner (attend famed evening classic car cruise in downtown Stockholm).

Saturday, August 27

• Exhibiting/Enthusiast day at “The Big Hansen Day.”

Sunday, August 28

• Use this day to visit buyers, sight see or head back home.
• Program officially over

SEMA Nordic participants will exhibit at a tabletop display much like the one pictured above at the first SEMA Australia trip.

Register now!

For more information contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org or visit sema.org/nordic. 

Three industry legends will be inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame: Walker Evans, Jack Roush and Robert Eugene "Gene" Winfield.

Created in 1969, SEMA Hall of Fame honors are bestowed on trailblazers who have significantly impacted and enhanced the growth of the automotive industry. Its members are considered heroes, and each individual has a unique story to tell. The industry is invited to join in honoring the new SEMA Hall of Fame members during the 2022 SEMA Awards Gala (previously known as the SEMA Installation Gala), on July 29, in Anaheim, California.

Walker Evans: Walker Evans began off-road racing in 1969 and became the first off-road racer to win the Baja 1000 as a driver of a fullsized truck in 1979. Over the course of his career, he has won more than 150 off-road desert and short course races, including championships in the Baja 500, Baja 1000, Fireworks 250, Mint 400 and Parker 400. Beyond racing, Evans is a pioneer in the off-road market, having collaborated closely with automakers such as Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge; worked with major tire manufacturers and suppliers; developed purpose-built products to meet off-road racers’ needs; and paved the way for new opportunities and growth. In 2004, Evans joined SEMA as a delegate on a visit to China to develop new business opportunities and partnerships for the industry. Evans is a role model who inspires young members to deal with emerging technologies and intense legislation, and promotes innovation and creativity in sustaining SEMA, as well as the racing and high-performance industries.

Jack Roush: For more than 40 years, Jack Roush has been committed to winning on and off the race track. Early in his career, he founded Roush & Gapp—a race team he formed with Wayne Gapp that won multiple championships in NHRA, IHRA and AHRA Pro Stock drag racing. Later, he established Jack Roush Performance Engineering and began supplying racing engines and components for drag, oval-track, and hill-climb cars as well as for offshore power boat contenders. In 1984, Roush was commissioned by the Ford Motor Co. to develop cars and engines for the SCCA Trans-Am and IMSA Camel GT racing series. Roush further expanded his Roush Racing operations in 1988, before establishing Roush Fenway Racing in 2007. The team has claimed two NASCAR Cup Championships, four NASCAR Xfinity championships and one NASCAR Truck Series title. Roush also made major safety contributions to stock-car racing, including the development of roof flaps to prevent rollovers. In addition to his racing successes, Roush is founder and chairman of Roush Enterprises, a global supplier of product development services, including design, engineering, prototyping, testing and manufacturing. He also oversees Roush Performance Products, a supplier of aftermarket performance parts, and he manages Roush CleanTech, a manufacturer of alternative fuel systems.

Robert Eugene "Gene" Winfield: Robert Eugene "Gene" Winfield is an American automotive customizer and fabricator who has been involved in the industry for more than 70 years. He started building hot rods in the backyard of his mother’s house in the ’40s, and came to national prominence in 1959 with a stunning quad-headlight take on a ’56 Mercury two-door hardtop immortalized as the Jade Idol. Besides fashioning his own unique brand of customs, Winfield became famous for inventing the fade paint job. Winfield also played a key role in promoting custom car modifications to the general public by supplying modified cars for movies and TV shows, including a vehicle in the iconic 1982 film "Blade Runner." No fewer than three Winfield creations have won the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster award, which is the Best Picture Oscar of the hot-rod world. Revered as “The King of Kustoms,” Winfield was featured in the first DVD in a series called “The Kings of Kustoms”—a documentary highlighting car customizers.

In addition to formally introducing Evans, Roush, and Winfield as SEMA Hall of Fame members during the 2022 SEMA Awards Gala, the annual event on July 29 will include recognitions of the newly elected and the outgoing SEMA Board members. All SEMA members and industry professionals are invited to join the celebration by purchasing tickets at www.sema.org/gala.

By Ashley Reyes

Automotive aftermarket engineers and product developers are invited to join the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) for an upcoming webinar, where participants will improve their understanding of diesel aftertreatment and how it relates to product design, system development and environmental compliance.

“Diesel Engine Emissions and Aftertreatment Systems” takes place on May 31, at 1:00 p.m. (PDT), and includes a high-level system overview and deep dive into the details of component performance.

Attendees will hear Dr. Andrea Strzelec, Director Master of Engineering in Engine Systems (MEES) and Polymer Engineering (MEPE) Programs, College of Engineering at the University of Wisconsin, as she shares:

• Regulatory drivers for emissions control.
• A description of emissions formation in diesel engines.
• An overview of functions of the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) aftertreatment devices. 

Dr. Strzelec will answer participant questions live. Learn more and register here. 

By Ashley Reyes

Parts manufacturers and women in the automotive industry still have time to submit their applications to get involved with the 2022 SBN All-Female Vehicle Build.   

Applications are being accepted from females in the automotive industry who would like to volunteer on the build, and from SEMA-member companies that would like support the build through parts donations. 

The project will begin in June in Southern California, where women will modify all aspects of a Ford Bronco 4-door Wildtrak provided by Bronco Brand, Ford’s outdoor brand of Built Wild and only-4x4 vehicles.  

Applications are being accepted from females in the automotive industry who would like to volunteer on the build, and from SEMA-member companies that would like support the build through parts donations.   

Learn more and get involved by visiting the online application. An email will be sent to all volunteers shortly to notify them of more details regarding each task force’s responsibilities and time commitments.

Women will modify all aspects of the vehicle, including the engine, chassis, drivetrain, interior, sound system, exterior and paint, before it is showcased at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.  

By Ashley Reyes

As part of its commitment to helping automotive aftermarket engineers, programmers and product developers work and adapt to new vehicle technology, the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) is hosting a brand new four-day event filled with in-depth training and quality meetings related to everything from ADAS to emissions, and CNC equipment to 3-D printing, as well as the suspension lifecycle.

Taking place August 16–19 at new SEMA Garage in Detroit, the ETTN Networking, Education, Resources, Development (N.E.R.D.) Symposium will connect engineers with product and service providers in one-on-one meetings, include in-depth education sessions and offer meaningful opportunities to meet with other engineers who share common concerns and challenges.

“The ETTN N.E.R.D. Symposium is a hyper-focused event for engineers who want to be on the forefront of the industry’s advanced vehicle technology,” said ETTN Director Nicole Bradle. “This event will provide hands-on education and networking for engineers to gain deeper knowledge on products relevant to their line of work. Attendees will also benefit from having dedicated time to talk to providers in the industry, which they normally do not have access to at any other event.”

Participants will attend the SEMA Garage Detroit Grand Opening celebration, where they will receive a private tour of the new facility and discover what new resources will be available.

Engineers, programmers, product developers and product and service providers interested in attending the event can learn more and register here by July 22.

By Ashley Reyes

With electric vehicles gaining momentum, there is vast opportunity for automotive aftermarket companies to capitalize on the EV market. Most major OEMs have already announced significant plans to convert the majority of their current fleet over to electric power, and each year they add new EV models to their lineup.

To provide automotive aftermarket companies the foundational knowledge to grow and evolve their business to meet the needs of EV consumers, SEMA will host a live webinar on the key components of an EV powertrain on May 25, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT).

Attendees will learn the functions of each EV powertrain component and how batteries, motors, charging and other technology are evolving during the live webinar with Brent Dreher, NVH/durability manager at Faraday Future—a California-based global shared intelligent mobility ecosystem company. Dreher will answer participant questions live.

Register here.

SEMA Show exhibitors and attendees preparing for the 2022 SEMA Show can lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rate now by booking in the SEMA Show Block.

Making hotel reservations in the Block provides you with the most affordable and convenient options for a wide range of hotels located on and off the Strip.

A number of non-casino properties, such as Vdara, are offering discounted rates for SEMA Show guests.

All of the hotels available through the SEMA Show Block come with a low-price guarantee. To help ensure that your price remains the lowest, SEMA will price-match lower advertised rates, even after your reservations are set. Whether you're looking for your favorite place to stay, or for a hotel within close proximity to the Show, you can book with confidence knowing you will get the rooms you need at the the most affordable price available.

The SEMA Show also provides shuttle service to and from the Show for the hotels listed that are not within walking distance to the Las Vegas Convention Center.

There are more than 45 hotels available in the block. For more information on the hotels listed below, including rating, price per night and distance from the Las Vegas Convention Center, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Looking for a quiet, no-frills hotel stay? There are a number of non-casino properties that are offering discounted rates for SEMA Show guests.

Check these out and book today:

• Courtyard Las Vegas Convention Center - $290 per night
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Convention Center Las Vegas $298 - per night
• Hilton Grand Vacations Flamingo - $282 per night
• Hilton Grand Vacations on Paradise (Convention Center) - $281 per night
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club on Strip $225 per night
• Las Vegas Marriott - $309 per night
• Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel - $314 per night
• Residence Inn Las Vegas Convention Center by Marriott - $279 per night
• Spring Hill Suites Las Vegas Convention Center - $299 per night
• Trump - $234     per night
• Vdara - $238 per night
• Westin - $223 per night

Book your hotel now!

To reserve your booth for the 2022 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

Performance Racing Industry (PRI) will open its new 42,500-sq.-ft. membership headquarters in Speedway, Indiana, on May 26 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand-opening celebration.

Performance Racing Industry will open its Membership Headquarters on May 26 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration.

The exclusive, invite-only celebration comes just in time for this year’s Indianapolis 500, “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” The ribbon cutting will begin at 4:00 p.m., followed by festivities that will include an IndyCar helmet display, silent auction, show cars, driver appearances, live paintings and private tours throughout the newly renovated building and Bryan Herta Autosport race shop.  

“PRI is dedicated to the preservation and growth of the motorsports industry, and our new Membership Headquarters and presence symbolizes that commitment,” said Dr. Jamie Meyer, president of PRI. “Our new home is a hub for the entire motorsports industry, where everyone is welcome.”

Located at 1255 Main St., within walking distance of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the facility will serve as PRI Membership Headquarters and offer a broad range of programs and services to benefit the motorsports community.

The first phase of the build-out includes office space for dedicated staff and areas to host motorsports gatherings and membership meetings. Phase two will add a content factory, where garage space will be transformed into a content-generation machine and allow for live and virtual educational opportunities.

“PRI is focused on advocating for the future of the racing industry,” said Meyer. ”Through our new PRI Membership program, Road Tour, legal advocacy efforts and the world’s premier racing trade show, the PRI Trade Show, we’re creating a unified voice for the motorsports community and providing opportunities for the industry to succeed.”

Following the successful return last year of the world’s largest in-person event for motorsports professionals, exhibitor support for the 2022 PRI Show is strong. Taking place December 8–10, in downtown Indianapolis, this year's PRI Show will be the most influential business event in the motorsports industry, bringing together more than 50,000 attendees—buyers, media, influencers, enthusiasts and professionals—looking to conduct business, network and learn about the latest products and technology.

“We encourage everyone—business owners, track operators, racers and fans—to become PRI members and join the fight to protect racing and preserve its future," said Meyer.   

To learn more about PRI Membership, or to join, visit PerformanceRacing.com/Membership. To learn more about PRI, visit PerformanceRacing.com.

Burger and Fudge Join Quadratec Wholesale

Sean Burger and Sean Fudge will represent Quadratec Wholesale in their outside role as southeast and midwest regional sales manager, respectively. Burger brings many years of experience working with Jeep accessory sales across retail and wholesale channels in the southeastern United States to Quadratec Wholesale. Having worked in various capacities for a leading manufacturer of Jeep and off-road accessories, Burger brings product technical knowledge, sales training and account management skills to Quadratec Wholesale.

Fudge brings 10 years of experience in account management and outside sales in the truck and off-road accessory market to Quadratec Wholesale. His previous experience managing hundreds of accounts and developing new business will be crucial to his new responsibilities.

In their new roles, Burger and Fudge will be responsible for managing sales growth, existing and new account development and promoting the benefits of Quadratec Wholesale and the Quadratec family of brands within their territories.

Race Winning Brands Acquires Haltech

Race Winning Brands (RWB), a portfolio company of MiddleGround Capital, has announced the acquisition of Haltech Engine Management Systems based in New South Wales, Australia, and with offices in Lexington, Kentucky, and Lake Forest, California.  

Haltech specializes in electronic engine management systems for performance and racing applications, including a wide range of domestic and sport-compact engine platforms. Haltech will continue to operate and serve its customers from its existing locations in Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Austria. For more information, visit racewinningbrands.com or haltech.com.

Mullen Automotive Announces Key New Hires

Mullen Automotive Inc. has announced a number of new hires across vehicle engineering, vehicle integration, powertrain systems and manufacturing in support of EV vehicle programs, including the Mullen FIVE EV Crossover and Mullen ONE EV Cargo Van programs. The following individuals who have recently joined Mullen Automotive are located across Mullen’s different facilities in California and Mississippi:

Product Engineering:

• Robert Huotari – director of interiors
• Mark Jenkins – design engineer
• Ameil Kapadia – senior manager, BIW engineering

 Manufacturing:

• Cesar Aguirre – manager, BIW advanced manufacturing engineer
• Amanda Hancock – HR manager
• Allen McDonald – plant controller
• Kyler Ohl – IT systems architect
• John Roberts – facilities supervisor
• Jesse Satterfield – manager, PC and L
• Jack Saylor – production manager/tech specialist
• Michelle Saylor – global manufacturing assistant

Vehicle Integration:

• Vedanth Basappa – manager, virtual simulation
• Scott Newton – packing engineer

Thermal Systems:

• Albert Lizardo – senior manager

Mullen recently announced the “Strikingly Different” U.S. Test Drive Tour, covering 19 cities across the United States. The tour will begin this fall in Southern California and work its way throughout the United States. Further details can be found here, or place your Mullen FIVE reservation here. 

Michael Graber Appointed President, CEO of Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp.

Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas has announced that Michael Graber has been appointed president and chief executive officer of Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp., the aftermarket sales unit for Toyo branded tires. He was promoted from the position of vice president of sales. In his new position, Graber will lead a team and will be responsible for replacement market sales, strategic sales planning, pricing, marketing, product planning and consumer affairs.

The Shop Magazine Acquired By Media Company

Cahaba Media Group has announced the acquisition of The Shop’s assets—the automotive aftermarket print magazine, website and podcast based in Broomfield, Colorado—from National Business Media. Previously the editor of Cahaba Media Group’s Pumps & Systems magazine, Jennifer King will lead The Shop team as the executive editor. Jef White will remain the editor, while AJ Hecht will remain the associate editor. The acquisition also included the RV Pro brand, including a print magazine, website and more for the RV market and related products. For more information, visit theshopmag.com and cahabamedia.com. 

S&W Performance Group Acquired by Private Investment Firm

Ken Wible, Terri (Weney) Gdowik and Jay Lankford

The S&W Performance Group—the drag-racing and performance street vehicle chassis and components manufacturer—has been acquired by Ken Wible and Jay Lankford’s private investment firm. S&W will continue to operate out of its Spring City, Pennsylvania, headquarters, which first opened in 1959. For more information, visit swracecars.com. 

SSBC-USA Adds Digital Marketing Coordinator

SSBC-USA—home of American Stopping Power—has announced the addition of its newest team member, Joey Williams, digital marketing coordinator. As SSBC-USA enters its third year of increased business and product expansion, the 40-year-old brand reputation has undergone a new light. The addition of a marketing professional will allow SSBC-USA to increase its digital footprint and highlight all that the new company has become. It will bring awareness to the latest in performance braking products, exclusively from SSBC-USA. Williams will manage the SSBC-USA website, monitor social media, develop sponsorships, implement new traffic drive and run email campaigns.

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

By SEMA Editors

Latest Jobs Added to SEMA Career Center

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest jobs posted to the website.

Technical Specialist
eFlexFuel is hiring a technical specialist responsible for serving as a highly skilled technical resource for the company’s partners and customers, designing and executing product training materials and sessions both online and in person, and solving engine and fueling issues in cars, motorbikes and powersports vehicles. This position can be remote, but travel around the United States is required to meet customers or to participate in different events.

Events Marketing Manager
Bonnier is hiring a remote events marketing manager. Reporting to the vice president of marketing, responsibilities include execution of all marketing for events, media planning and development, and some production and engagement with key groups, such as clubs and media partners. The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated, process-driven individual with experience in event marketing and specific knowledge of hunting and motorcycle markets. Chosen candidates must be highly enthusiastic, able to manage multiple projects and coordinate multiple events simultaneously, creative, resourceful and demonstrate strong communication and relationship skills.

Product Data/Website Administrator
Cognito Motorsports is hiring a product data administrator responsible for the development and maintenance of product data for distribution across all digital channels, including the company ERP, website and reseller network. The qualified candidate must have excellent writing and proof reading skills with extraordinary attention to details and ability to hit scheduled deadlines. A B.A. or B.S. degree from an accredited four-year university is preferred, or equivalent work experience.