SEMA eNews highlights new products from industry companies when available. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

SCE Gaskets
Copper Magnito/Distributor 0.010-in. Shim Gaskets

The gaskets can be stacked for optimal gear engagement.

Milwaukee
PACKOUT New Tumblers & Cooler

Milwaukee Tool continues to revolutionize jobsite storage with new Tumblers and a Cooler that feature full modular connectivity with the PACKOUT system. The additions will include 30-oz. and 20-oz. PACKOUT Tumblers and a PACKOUT 40QT XL Cooler designed for mobility through site, transit and shop.

With the addition of the new PACKOUT 30-oz. and 20-oz. Tumblers and 40QT XL Cooler, the Milwaukee PACKOUT Modular Storage System now has over 65 different products for users to choose from to build out their custom storage solution—making PACKOUT the most versatile and durable modular storage system in the industry.

Improved Racing
Oil Cooler Adapter for Porsche 944 S2/928

Improved Racing has released a simple oil cooler adapter the Porsche 944 S2 and late model 928. The new adapter allows replacing the aging factory oil lines with new AN lines. Because the factory lines have been discontinued, this is often the only option available.

By upgrading to AN lines, you also gain the ability to increase the line diameter to -12AN (3/4-in. ID) for reduced restriction to oil flow.

FiTech
Fuel Cell Pump Modules

FiTech announced that it released two new pump modules—a single pump model that supports up to 800 hp and a dual pump design for engines up to 1,600 hp. The Single Pump model is supplied with an efficient 340 LPH pump complemented with an internal regulator to maintain 58-psi so it can be run returnless. The Dual Module is supplied with two 340 LPH pumps and has dual outlets.

The CNC-machined billet module top is machined to fit most fuel cells with a 12-bolt flange or can be installed in a custom tank. There is a 2-in. diameter filler assembly along with a sealed cap (filler tube extensions are available separately). The feed and return outlets are machined for -6AN ORB fittings which are supplied to help complete your installation along with secure terminals to connect the fuel pump.

PN 50019, PN 50020

Scott Drake
’68–’70 Mustang and Cougar Adjustable Performance Strut Rods

Scott Drake's new performance strut rods are a great way to upgrade the suspension for ’67–’70 Ford Mustang or Mercury Cougar. The strut rods are fully adjustable, which makes adjusting the caster a breeze on the front suspension. The solid billet aluminum mounting clevis attaches directly to the strut rod bracket, eliminating lower control arm movement during acceleration, cornering and braking.

Left- and right-handed threads allow easy adjustment after installation and jam nuts maintain settings. These strut rods are finished in a beautiful, long-lasting black and silver powdercoat finish. Hardware and nylon-insert locknuts are provided.

Vossen Wheels
Hybrid Forged 6-Lug Design

The HF6-4 is Vossen’s fourth Hybrid Forged 6-lug design, further expanding the HF Series' reach to the truck and SUV market. Now available in our deepest concave profiles yet, Super Deep and Ultra Deep—the HF6-4 is available in five standard finishes.

By Ashley Reyes

All women in the industry are invited to sign up to volunteer on the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) All-Female Vehicle Build by filling out the online application. Volunteers will play a critical role in modifying a Ford Bronco 4-door Wildtrak provided by Ford’s Bronco Brand.  

All women in the industry are invited to sign up to volunteer on the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) All-Female Vehicle Build by filling out the online application.

Applications will be reviewed and accepted individually based on program alignment and need. Volunteer opportunities are available in the following areas:   

• Volunteer Recruitment Team  
• Events Team  
• Media/Content Team  
• Secure Parts and Sponsorship  
• Build Team

Other opportunities will be available; contact us! To learn more, contact nicoleb@sema.org. 

By Ashley Reyes

Parts manufacturers may be able to get involved with the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) All-Female Vehicle Build, a celebrated project that will showcase the talents of women in the industry and help encourage more women to join the industry.

Parts manufacturers may be able to get involved with the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) All-Female Vehicle Build.

Manufacturers with products for the Ford Bronco 4-Door Wildtrak are invited to submit an application by completing this form.  

“It’s our vision that this vehicle will inspire the industry and showcase the many amazing talents of women in the automotive aftermarket,” said SBN Director Nicole Bradle. “This vehicle will be showcased prominently at the 2022 SEMA Show and our parts sponsors are the key to making sure the vehicle will look the best that it possibly can.”  

Submissions will be reviewed and accepted individually based on program alignment and need.

By Ashley Reyes

The hot-rod segment is no longer about the year the car was born. For the market to continue to grow, it’s important that hot rodders open their minds and businesses to the thought that “hot rod” can be a broad definition no longer limited by model year.

Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) members will hear from some of the market’s top leaders as they discuss the current state of hot rods and what the future might hold, during the HRIA General Membership Meeting and Panel Discussion on May 17, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT).

Featuring Amy Fitzgerald of Cool Hand Customs as moderator, and Jesse Henke, JH Restorations; Pete Filippo, Filippo Speed Shop Inc; and Tim Strange, Strange Motion Rod & Custom Construction as speakers, the panel will tackle the traditional definition of “hot rod,” the emergence of EVs and where the tuner market and other similar communities fit in. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts on the future of hot rodding.

The meeting and discussion are open to all HRIA members and companies in the hot-rod industry, and is the ideal time to address industry concerns and learn from others in the market. A brief report on the council’s current initiatives will also be discussed.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA represents the automotive specialty-equipment industry and provides benefits and resources to help businesses in the industry succeed, and while the association has a team of professionals who execute the day-to-day operations, SEMA relies on volunteers from the industry to direct, guide and lead its efforts.

In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 17–23), SEMA is recognizing the contributions of the volunteer groups and individuals who give so much to the industry.

In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 17–23), SEMA is recognizing the contributions of the volunteer groups and individuals who give so much to the industry. The following are some of the programs and services that originated from SEMA volunteers in the past year—from idea and inception to development and execution.

• The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) select committee launched the first-ever Professional Development Program for its members at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. Facilitated by Dale Carnegie trainers, the program included interactive exercises, peer-to-peer networking, and in-depth discussions on Dale Carnegie’s book, How to Win Friends and Influence People. The event concluded with high satisfaction ratings, and left FLN members inspired and prepared to be better communicators, networkers and leaders in their personal and professional lives.
• The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is finalizing plans for the first-ever SEMA PRO Auto Show. Thanks to the volunteer-led initiative, SEMA and PRO will exhibit at new car shows throughout the United States, using booth vehicles to spread awareness of restylers and packages offered in each region.
• In 2022, volunteers from the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance, SEMA Businesswomen’s Network and SEMA Wheel & Tire Council have spearheaded networking events and mixers at Overland Expo West, Keystone Big Show and Easter Jeep Safari.
• The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) select committee launched the first-ever SBN Women’s Leadership Forum for its members. The two-and-a-half-day in-person program educated, inspired and prepared women in automotive to thrive in the workplace through interactive seminars and networking. The select committee is now in the process of executing an all-female build that will be showcased at the 2022 SEMA Show and sold to support SEMA Cares.
• Volunteers from the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network, SEMA Wheel & Tire Council and SEMA Businesswomen’s Network continue to provide live virtual education to their members on topics that impact them the most. The seminars help members advance their careers while also creating a community through interactive breakout groups.
• SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) volunteers are partnering with SoCalSAE to host a student day and career fair at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. The event will connect SAE students with representatives from SEMA-member companies, who will provide feedback on the students’ business presentations.
• The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) have hosted virtual general membership meetings and panel discussions, making it easier than ever for members across the country to connect and discuss industry hot topics.
• The Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) hosted a three-day virtual Media Trade Conference, connecting motorsports parts manufacturers with 140-plus media outlets, including leading social-media influencers. The event resulted in increased awareness, brand exposure, and partnerships for many participating MPMC members.
• The SEMA Cares committee is hard at work fundraising for its partnering children’s charities, which include Victory Junction, Austin Hatcher Foundation and Childhelp. A total of $250,563 was generated in 2021 from a Hemmings vehicle auction, the annual pinewood drag races, celebrity cars and a $100,000 match from SEMA.

SEMA appreciates everything volunteers do for the members and community.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) named John Lambert as the council’s newest spotlight volunteer. Lambert is the general manager at Hypertech, a technology leader in high-performance engine tuning computer-controlled vehicles.
Get to know Lambert in his Q&A with SEMA below.

SEMA: Did you ever consider another career or industry, and what made you choose automotive manufacturing?

John Lambert: I started working at Hypertech when I was 25 years old and have loved it since day one. The automotive aftermarket was a dream to work in, and it proves daily why that dream continues.

SEMA: How long have you been volunteering for MPMC, what inspired you to volunteer and how has it impacted you?

JL: I began volunteering for MPMC in 2019 at the suggestion of several industry colleagues and mentors. I only wish I had started sooner! I have met so many great people that I respect personally and professionally. These relationships not only strengthen me as a person, but they also strengthen my understanding of how I can better serve SEMA companies as a member of the MPMC Select Committee.

SEMA: What do you see as the biggest challenges for the motorsports industry today, and where do you see the industry in five years?

JL: Supply-chain issues are the biggest immediate challenge for MPMC-member companies. I do believe this will get better over the next several years, but it does shine a light on opportunities to improve these issues with changes to local sourcing for materials, parts and labor.

SEMA: What’s your favorite car-related movie? What is it that you like about that movie?

JL: I have two that I watch regularly: “Dazed and Confused” and “The Blues Brothers.” “Dazed and Confused” has a killer soundtrack and cameos from several big stars that weren’t at the time. It also shows kids hot rodding around in some killer rides. “The Blues Brothers” also has a great soundtrack and basically revolves around the Blues Mobile. You can't go wrong when you combine great music and cars.

SEMA: On a Saturday, where can you be found?

JL: If I have my preference, I’m usually in the shop working on my rock crawler buggy or side-by-side. I love off-roading with friends, but the hobby takes a lot of prep work to make it fun. The mechanical side is a nice break from the everyday computer interface, so that’s nice.

Fill out an MPMC member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the motorsports industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on MPMC’s social media, SEMA News and future MPMC member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

Matt Avery is the SEMA Future Leaders Network’s (FLN) newest spotlight member. Avery is the executive producer at Mecum Auctions, a leader in live auctions of collector and classic cars, antique motorcycles, vintage tractors and Road Art memorabilia with events across the United States.

Get to know Avery in his interview with SEMA below.

SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Matt Avery: It was being instilled with the aspiration to pursue excellence. I apply this to both my professional and personal life with the mentality that if I can set out about doing something, whether small or grand, I’m going to aim to do it well. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. That drive delivers quality, and in the business sector, that’s a highly sought-after and strongly valued commodity.

Your reputation in the marketplace is built on what you’re known for. If your clients, customers and brand enthusiasts come to know you as someone who is genuine and constantly seeking to go above and beyond, that will be a benefit for you for years to come.  

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

MA: The simple joy of having built and developed a career that enables me to be around something I deeply love and care about—cars and trucks. Like many others, my passion started when I was young, being mesmerized by larger-than-life vehicles sporting bright colors, loud engines and mind-boggling capabilities. To grow up and be a part of this wild and wonderful industry and even more, to be a leader and innovator in the space, helping to shape, grow and cultivate where we are now and where we’re heading in the future truly is a dream come true.  

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

MA: You’ll likely find me up early heading to a local coffee shop before taking in any one of the wonderful automotive meetups that take place regularly in and around the Chicago suburbs. Our classic-car cruises are a sight to see, being held in all kinds of cute train-stop cities, while our exotic and supercar gatherings feature all the latest and greatest in high-speed and luxury motoring. There’s something for everyone, and I love experiencing it all.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

MA: I keep several things in mind. First, I prepare. There’s nothing worse than running in late and, even more egregious, not having a clear plan of objectives for your time together. Treat those minutes as valued and something you don’t want to squander or waste. To avoid this, I go over in advance what I need to accomplish, which leads to a firm sense of personal confidence.

With a roadmap established, I then figure out what I can do to help meet those targets. All of this is long before the meeting takes place. On that day, I arrive early—whether in person or logging in to the conference call or webchat. That gives me time to focus and clear distractions in order to give my best attention to whoever is across the table or on the other side of the screen. That respect will go a long way and is a wonderful trait to develop. I also listen, making it a priority to render the floor to others while I absorb fully and process. Then when I do speak, I work to be clear, concise and congenial. Always keep in mind how you would want to be treated in a meeting or business setting, and work to deliver that kind of experience.

SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?

MA: I’d love to meet up with Vince Piggins, manager of product performance for Chevrolet during the ’60s. The man was an automotive enthusiast through and through and helped lead the brand through one of the most exciting decades in motorsports and street-performance history. He was involved with the development and distribution of all of the legendary and boundary-pushing muscle machines of the era, with a legacy that remains to this day.

If you are a current FLN member, fill out an FLN member spotlight form. Selected candidates may be featured on FLN’s social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

Love Lontoc, brand manager associate at KW automotive North America Inc., is this week’s SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.  

Get to know what Lontoc enjoys about the industry in her interview with SEMA below.  

SEMA: What do you enjoy most about working at your current company?

Love Lontoc: I enjoy being around other car enthusiasts, working on a variety of projects and the freedom of creativity.

SEMA: What is the most challenging part of your job?

LL: In my new role as the brand manager associate, the most challenging part is communication. There are many channels and time zones that the brand management department has to keep in mind, and it is important that information is translated correctly to others.

SEMA: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job?

LL: I started working in the industry in 2016 as a journeyman technician intern at Chevron. During my last college semester in 2019, I interned as a marketing assistant at KW automotive North America and have been here since!

SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?

LL: Adaptability, integrity and dependability. I grew up as a Navy brat and had to move every few years, and that lifestyle helped me become comfortable with changes. I value integrity because “doing what is right even when no one is watching” is very important, and I strive to be dependable because I believe that is a key component to having a great team.

SEMA: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?

LL: One of the biggest challenges is having to work much harder to show that I am capable of doing just as much as a male counterpart.

In the Automotive Technology Program, I was the only female during the first semester and one of two in the second. At first, I was intimidated by everyone and felt that no one would want to work with me. After a short period of time, I was able to prove that “I can do this,” and a lot of people were asking for my help. I ended up becoming one of two automotive tutors during the second semester.  

Since then, I have been fortunate to meet people who want to help me grow in this industry and have given me the respect that is not given so easily to women in this industry. Thanks to the amazing support of my family and peers, people in the industry have learned that I am of great value and I'm able to help them.

SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?

LL: In the beginning of my career, it was Mr. Guzman, Mr. Garza and Mr. Nelson from the Automotive Technology Program. There were times when I had one-on-one sessions with them to make sure I understood the material and was not getting overshadowed by other classmates. This is where I got my “push” to be in the industry, and without them I wouldn’t be in pursuing a career in automotive.

Currently, it would have to be my boss Kelleigh Ash and brand managers Frank Vasquez and Matt Behrnes. I appreciate how much they want me to succeed, and they challenge me with different projects that help me learn more about the industry and think about everything from different perspectives.

Ongoing, it’s all the women in the industry. It’s a great feeling to see them succeeding in a male-dominated field.

SEMA: What is the best career advice you have received?

LL: “It's not a race, it’s a marathon.” I have to remind myself that although healthy competition is okay and motivating, I have to take a step back and realize I am on my own path doing things on my own time. I will get there.

SEMA: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?

LL: Honestly, no. If you had asked me years ago where I saw myself in five or 10 years, automotive was not one of the answers. I was curious about cars during high school because of all the movies featuring fast cars and whatnot. A few years after, a group of friends I had at the time were into cars, and I decided to take a few summer courses to understand what they were talking about. Turns out, I enjoy learning about cars and getting my hands dirty. In 2015, I decided to take the plunge and enroll in the Automotive Technology Program.  

What keeps me in this industry is the camaraderie, seeing what builds are made and wondering what is the “next big thing.” It’s enjoyable to see how much passion people have for their vehicles. They appear to be on another level of happiness.

SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?

LL: My parents. The amount of support, patience and guidance they have provided throughout my life does not go unappreciated.

Do you know, or are you, a woman with a career in the automotive industry? Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN’s #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN’s social media, SEMA News and recognized on the www.sema.org/she-is-sema website.

By Ashley Reyes

The specialty-equipment industry continues to experience strong growth and demand as the United States puts COVID-19 in the rearview mirror. According to SEMA’s new “State of the Industry—Spring 2022” report, 75% of manufacturers, 68% of distributors and 53% of retailers/installers report that sales are currently above where they were prior to the pandemic, and consumer demand is equally higher for most companies than in 2019.

According to SEMA’s new “State of the Industry—Spring 2022” report, 75% of manufacturers, 68% of distributors and 53% of retailers/installers report that sales are currently above where they were prior to the pandemic, and consumer demand is equally higher for most companies than in 2019.

However, despite strong industry growth, concerns remain due to ongoing supply-chain issues, inflation, economic uncertainty and the war in Ukraine.

The report, which includes 70 pages of new industry data, helps companies make better business decisions by highlighting current industry trends, business metrics and estimates on how sales have changed over the last year, and provides a look into the ongoing supply disruption and a pulse check of consumers as they navigate economic uncertainty and higher prices.

Additional key findings from the report include:

• More than half of companies expect sales to continue to grow in the coming year.
• Supply-chain issues remain a challenge for more than 90% of the industry, and most don’t see things returning to normal until at least 2023.
• The current inflation rate of 8.5% is the highest it has been in 40 years, yet consumers continue to spend.
• Despite gas prices being up more than 40% on average from where they were last year, 80% of Americans still plan on taking a road trip this summer.
• Amid record consumer demand, 70% of manufacturers, 56% of distributors and 45% of retail installers have had difficulty filling open positions due to a shortage of qualified applicants to hire.

The complete SEMA “State of the Industry—Spring 2022” report is available to download for free at www.sema.org/research.

By Ashley Reyes

Automotive engineers, programmers, and product developers will discover what the next generation has planned during the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network’s (ETTN) Student Competition Facebook and Instagram live chat on April 27 at 12:00 p.m. (PDT)/3:00 p.m. (EDT).

Viewers will watch a recap video from the SEMA/SAE staging event that took place the week before in which students showcased and shared details about current racing and performance projects for on- and off-road applications.

Ian Lehn, founder of Boostane, will moderate the discussion, as he is joined by SEMA’s Director of Vehicle Technology Luis Morales,  a representative from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and Cal Poly Pomona Formula SAE students Marvin Sevilla and Isaac Haynes.

Viewers will watch a recap video from the SEMA/SAE staging event that took place the week before in which students showcased and shared details about current racing and performance projects for on- and off-road applications. Viewers will also discover opportunities and best practices for mentoring, hiring and collaborating with the future generation, and take part in an open Q&A with the live chat hosts.

Live chat location: ETTN Facebook page and Instagram (ettn_sema)