SEMA News—April 2020

NEW PRODUCTS

By Mike Imlay

Truck, SUV & Off-Road New Products

A Steady Supply of Workhorse Items for Demanding Enthusiasts

Truck and off-road products are aftermarket staples, thanks in particular to resurgent consumer interest in pickups, SUVs and Jeeps, and now CUVs as well. Recent SEMA market research indicates that pickup product sales alone account for a 27% share of the specialty-equipment market. Add SUV product sales, and total market share increases another 13%. Moreover, 47% of pickup consumers and 45% of their SUV counterparts self-identify as true enthusiasts. Little wonder that this past November’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas witnessed the introduction of nearly 500 new truck, SUV and off-road products, not counting wheels and tires. The following pages offer another look at these products as seen in the New Products Showcase.

View all of the truck, SUV and off-road products featured in the 2019 SEMA Show New Products Showcase.

Pareto Point Industries Eco-Filter Booster Powered by Filter Boost Technology, Eco-Boost has two options: A reusable filter using an insert to boost micronic trap performance from 35 microns to 2–10 microns ($250), and an insertable stick for most other manufacturers. Both trap the worst wear-causing recirculating debris (2–10 microns) that the reusable filter alone is unable to stop. 323-726-2199 www.paretopoint.com PN: RS-3416
Curt Group: Curt, Aries, Luverne, UWS SecureLatch Receiver-Mount Pintle Hook The SecureLatch pintle hook makes coupling virtually automatic with its auto-locking technology. It latches onto a lunette ring without any manual coupling required. Strike the back plate, drop the ring, and it’s ready to tow—just insert the safety pin. It also has a unique cupped design to hold the ring more tightly and reduce chucking. 877-287-8634 www.curtmfg.com PN: 48405
ICON Vehicle Dynamics ’03–Up Lexus GX460/470 Rear Coil Conversion Kit Designed specifically for the Lexus GX460 and GX470, the ICON rear coil conversion kit allows the factory rear air-bag system to be removed and replaced with a traditional coil spring for consistent on- and off-road performance. 951-689-4266 www.iconvehicledynamics.com PN: 56110
ILC GT Handle Actuator ILC is launching a new 02180 GT handle actuator. The power adaptable and surface-mounted actuator blends automotive styling cues with rugged performance criteria to create this new handle design. Handle and base materials are engineered copolymers, providing UV, temperature and impact resistance. 800-733-3907 www.illinoislock.com PN: 02180 GT Handle Actuator
Truck Covers USA American Truck Gear A line of recovery straps and cargo bags. The recovery strap kit contains heavy-duty recovery and tree-protector straps. Cargo bags come in three sizes, have non-slip properties and are waterproof, mold-proof and UV-protected. Oversize industrial-strength zippers. Cold crack tested to -40°F. Wipe down and clean easily. Made in the U.S.A. 858-622-9135 www.truckcoversusa.com PN: AX-915
Holley Performance Intech ’20 Jeep Gladiator JT 3.6L and ’18–’19 Wrangler JL 3.6 Cold-Air Intake Holley’s Intech cold-air intake brand represents the highest degree of technology, performance and style for late-model cars, trucks and SUVs. This system is designed for the popular ’18–’19 Jeep Wrangler JL and ’20 Jeep Gladiator JT V6, 3.6L and produced +24.86 hp and +22.6 lb.-ft. of torque on the dyno with a very broad power curve. 866-464-6553 www.holley.com PN: 223-16
Steer Smarts DJ Ram High-Steer Drag Link Designed to realign steering geometry when adding lifts to the factory chassis. 734-748-5603 www.steersmarts.com
AnzoUSA ’14–’17 Chevy Silverado LED Sequential Taillight Chevy Silverado ’14–’17 LED sequential turn-signal taillight black housing clear lens. Color options available include red lens, smoked lens and chrome housing. 909-590-8618 www.anzousa.com PN: 311289
Ground Force Ground Force ’19 Ram 1/2-ton 4WD 2.0-in. Front/1.0-in. Rear Leveling Kit Ground Force is a U.S.A. manufacturer of premium lowering and leveling kits for light trucks, SUVs and Jeeps. Ground Force’s 30+ years of experience in the suspension business results in the highest-quality components, including military coatings on hardware as well as engineered polyurethane for ride and noise isolation. Demand the best. Demand Ground Force. 724-430-2068 www.groundforce.com PN: 3864
ARP Inc. Cummins OE Exhaust With Spacers Bolt Kit ARP stainless exhaust bolt kit for Cummins OE with spacers. 800-826-3045 www.arp-bolts.com PN: 447-1202
Cognito Pitman and Idler Arm Support Kit (GM Steering) The Cognito support kit corrects the design flaw in GM pitman- and idler-arm-type steering systems in a way that not even aftermarket pitman and idler arms can. Corrects stock, leveled and lifted trucks and SUVs. Key benefits include increased steering component and tire life, improved handling and fuel mileage, and the elimination of lane wandering and toe change. 661-588-8085 www.cognitomotorsports.com PN: 110-90698
Dobinsons Spring & Suspension USA LLC MRR Three-Way Adjustable Built on the back of race-winning Monotube Remote Reservoir (MRR) shock absorbers, Dobinsons’ new range of MRR adjustable shock absorbers combine the best in high-performance, race-bred monotube technology with an all-new, three-way damping adjustment system to turn a 4x4 into the ultimate off-road machine. 305-424-8353 www.dobinsonusa.com PN: MRA45-A115
TrailFX Jeep JL Steel Fender Flares TrailFX fender flares for the Jeep JL are designed to add maximum protection against rocks and debris. They are constructed with premium steel and are finished with a black powdercoated finish. Front flares feature LED lights to provide additional visibility at night. TrailFX steel fender flares pair nicely with the premium stubby bumper from TrailFX. 800-521-9999 www.trailfx.com PN: JL05FF
DRiV DynoMax ’20 Jeep Gladiator QuietCrawler Performance Exhaust System DynoMax Performance Exhaust’s QuietCrawler system for the ’20 Jeep Gladiator was designed for maximum clearance for on- and off-road driving and includes two mufflers, an oval Super Turbo muffler that helps to reduce sound without sacrificing performance, and a Race Bullet muffler that acts like a resonator and helps to eliminate drone. 734-243-8000 www.dynomax.com PN: 39541
Dee Zee Jeep Wrangler/Gladiator Roof Rack Dee Zee’s innovative Hex-series designs have expanded to roof racks for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator. The rack covers both the front and rear of the roof, mounting to the existing drip rails. The crossbars can be moved forward and backward for the perfect mounting location of light accessories, bikes, tents and more. Two size options are available. 515-265-7331 www.deezee.com PN: DZ 4472JP
Titan Fuel Tanks XXL Direct-Replacement Fuel Tank This new extra-large-capacity fuel tank for the ’17–’19 Chevrolet/GMC 2500 and 3500 crew cab, short-bed pickup trucks is a perfect example to showcase the engineering and craftsmanship that goes into the Titan Fuel Tanks line of products. The Chevy truck, with all of its new systems, required development of a tank with a perfect fit. This is it. 208-522-1325 www.titanfueltanks.com PN: 7010217
Curt Group: Curt, Aries, Luverne, UWS 3-in. Deep-Drop Adjustable Channel Mount (105/8-in. Drop) The Curt deep-drop channel mount is highly adjustable for a maximum rise of 85/8 in. and a maximum drop of 105/8 in. It has two trailer ball sizes—2 and 25/16 in.—and fits 3x3-in. receivers for heavy-duty towing. It is tested for a towing capacity of up to 21,000 lbs. and has a built-in anti-rattle to promote smooth, quiet towing. 877-287-8634 www.curtmfg.com PN: 45928
Rhinohide 4x4 Body Armor JK Wrangler Off-Road Armor Single rear-door panel from the JK Wrangler four-door kit. Fully removable and reusable paintwork body armor that attaches to the exterior of 4x4s in a matter of minutes, protecting vulnerable paintwork when off-road. Turning back on an overgrown track is a thing of the past. Users will explore more with Rhinohide. +61-8-9468-9655 www.rhinohide.com.au PN: JPJKU4D-DIGI-L3
Truck Hero Rugged Ridge HD Front Stubby Bumper With Striker JL The HD front stubby bumper features sturdy steel construction, dual-drilled recovery hooks and integrated high-lift jacking points. A tough satin-black powdercoat finish protects from rust and corrosion. Simple bolt-on installation. Fit it with an optional X-Striker to dramatically change the overall appearance. 770-614-6101 www.ruggedridge.com PN: 11540.32
Decked D-Bag Made from thermo-formed foam and heavy-duty TPU-coated nylon, the D-Bag is designed to nest in Decked drawers. Using these materials, the D-Bag will not bulge or distort in shape with loading of items, resulting in a soft-sided bag that won’t catch or snag in drawers. Included inside are a tool roll, the D-Rito, and a small-parts bag, the D-Uffle. 208-806-0251 www.decked.com PN: AD9

View all of the truck, SUV and off-road products featured in the 2019 SEMA Show New Products Showcase.

SEMA News—April 2020

REQUIRED READING

By Juan Torres

By Byron Bergmann

Comprised of automotive aftermarket professionals who are passionate about the advancement of the industry, select committee volunteers work alongside industry professionals from different market segments to provide valuable programs, events, education opportunities and other resources for the council or network membership.

Select Committee nominations for SEMA councils and networks are now open at sema.org/volunteer. Members of the select committees serve within the council or network leadership and play a vital role in strategically aligning council initiatives with current member and industry needs.

Comprised of automotive aftermarket professionals who are passionate about the advancement of the industry, select committee volunteers work alongside industry professionals from different market segments to provide valuable programs, events, education opportunities and other resources for the council or network membership.

“The SEMA Council and Network program is dependent on volunteer select committee members to represent their respective market and professional niches,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA Vice President of Councils and Membership. “It is through their knowledge and expertise that we are able to develop valuable and relevant new programs that truly help the industry and our members’ businesses.”

Nomination criteria include being employed by a current SEMA member company, being a current member of the council or network that the nominee would represent, and a dedicated commitment to serving a two-year minimum term.

While councils work to identify related business goals, issues and challenges for member companies in a particular market segment, networks are a platform for individuals within a SEMA-member company who share a common interest or characteristic.

If you would like to nominate yourself or someone who has the skills and character to influence industry progress, fill out the online council’s nomination form. Nominations must be received by midnight April 6, 2020. The select committee elections will take place in late April.

For more information about SEMA’s councils and networks or the nomination and election process, contact Nathan Ridnouer at nathanr@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Human resource professionals in the automotive aftermarket are discovering the latest HR news and information related to the Coronavirus at the SEMA HR Hub, an online resource designed to help industry professionals stay up-to-date on the latest policies and information on human resource and employee matters.

As updates on COVID-19 are released daily, the HR Hub is an essential tool that provides labor- and employment-related coverage of pandemics and emergency or changing Federal state laws.

As updates on COVID-19 are released daily, the HR Hub is an essential tool that provides labor- and employment-related coverage of pandemics and emergency or changing Federal state laws.

Written and organized by the expert Wolters Kluwer team of employment law editors, the SEMA HR Hub also includes a variety of business tools, new trends and best practices aimed to assist companies comply with HR federal and state requirements.

Policies, forms, bookmarks and e-mail alerts are just some of the features included that help guide users in the following areas:

• Benefits and compensation
• Discrimination and retaliation
• Employee development and retention
• Employee relations
• Federal and state employment laws
• HR management and strategy
• Risk management and compliance
• Talent acquisition and staffing
• Workplace safety and security
• And more…

Additional features include comprehensive state law summaries, custom job description and performance review modules, dynamic state law lookup, and a unique search process that looks for related industry terms.

SEMA members can access the HR Hub for free.

For questions or additional information, contact AJ Carney, senior manager of education, at andreac@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Human resource professionals in the automotive aftermarket are discovering the latest HR news and information related to the Coronavirus at the SEMA HR Hub, an online resource designed to help industry professionals stay up-to-date on the latest policies and information on human resource and employee matters.

As updates on COVID-19 are released daily, the HR Hub is an essential tool that provides labor- and employment-related coverage of pandemics and emergency or changing Federal state laws.

As updates on COVID-19 are released daily, the HR Hub is an essential tool that provides labor- and employment-related coverage of pandemics and emergency or changing Federal state laws.

Written and organized by the expert Wolters Kluwer team of employment law editors, the SEMA HR Hub also includes a variety of business tools, new trends and best practices aimed to assist companies comply with HR federal and state requirements.

Policies, forms, bookmarks and e-mail alerts are just some of the features included that help guide users in the following areas:

• Benefits and compensation
• Discrimination and retaliation
• Employee development and retention
• Employee relations
• Federal and state employment laws
• HR management and strategy
• Risk management and compliance
• Talent acquisition and staffing
• Workplace safety and security
• And more…

Additional features include comprehensive state law summaries, custom job description and performance review modules, dynamic state law lookup, and a unique search process that looks for related industry terms.

SEMA members can access the HR Hub for free.

For questions or additional information, contact AJ Carney, senior manager of education, at andreac@sema.org.

By Kyle Cheng

Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators Report” each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy.

A lot has happened in the last 30 days, and a lot more will over the next few months. Due to the availability and lag in government economic data, the true effects of the coronavirus won’t start to be realized until next month’s “SEMA Industry Indicators Report.” That said, economic data through February actually looked pretty good—if only it was still February.

What started as a supply disruption (given production closures in China) has quickly become a demand disruption (as consumers are staying home). The depth of this demand falloff remains to be seen and we will start to get glimpses of its true effects in the coming months. With individuals traveling less, auto sales are likely to be significantly weaker through 2020. Only time will tell.

Want more information on the trends affecting the specialty-equipment industry? Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators Report” each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy. In this report, published monthly, you’ll get a snapshot of the overall economy and our industry, including:

• Overall economic outlook.
• New-vehicle sales and statistics on auto-parts production.
• Consumer sentiment and spending.
• Economic growth and unemployment.
• Other important industry insights.

To learn more, download the March “SEMA Industry Indicators Report,” now available for free at www.sema.org/research.

By Kyle Cheng

Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators Report” each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy.

A lot has happened in the last 30 days, and a lot more will over the next few months. Due to the availability and lag in government economic data, the true effects of the coronavirus won’t start to be realized until next month’s “SEMA Industry Indicators Report.” That said, economic data through February actually looked pretty good—if only it was still February.

What started as a supply disruption (given production closures in China) has quickly become a demand disruption (as consumers are staying home). The depth of this demand falloff remains to be seen and we will start to get glimpses of its true effects in the coming months. With individuals traveling less, auto sales are likely to be significantly weaker through 2020. Only time will tell.

Want more information on the trends affecting the specialty-equipment industry? Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators Report” each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy. In this report, published monthly, you’ll get a snapshot of the overall economy and our industry, including:

• Overall economic outlook.
• New-vehicle sales and statistics on auto-parts production.
• Consumer sentiment and spending.
• Economic growth and unemployment.
• Other important industry insights.

To learn more, download the March “SEMA Industry Indicators Report,” now available for free at www.sema.org/research.

By Kyle Cheng

Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators Report” each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy.

A lot has happened in the last 30 days, and a lot more will over the next few months. Due to the availability and lag in government economic data, the true effects of the coronavirus won’t start to be realized until next month’s “SEMA Industry Indicators Report.” That said, economic data through February actually looked pretty good—if only it was still February.

What started as a supply disruption (given production closures in China) has quickly become a demand disruption (as consumers are staying home). The depth of this demand falloff remains to be seen and we will start to get glimpses of its true effects in the coming months. With individuals traveling less, auto sales are likely to be significantly weaker through 2020. Only time will tell.

Want more information on the trends affecting the specialty-equipment industry? Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators Report” each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy. In this report, published monthly, you’ll get a snapshot of the overall economy and our industry, including:

• Overall economic outlook.
• New-vehicle sales and statistics on auto-parts production.
• Consumer sentiment and spending.
• Economic growth and unemployment.
• Other important industry insights.

To learn more, download the March “SEMA Industry Indicators Report,” now available for free at www.sema.org/research.

By SEMA Editors

The following candidates are vying for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:

Distributors/Retailers (one open seat):

• John Evankovich – Director, Sam’s Club
• Ted Wentz III – CEO, Quadratec, Inc.

Voting will take place online between May 12–May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company’s primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company’s designated primary contact beginning April 30. Winners will be announced by May 29 and formally inducted into the SEMA Board of Directors at the SEMA Installation & Gala,  July 24, 2020.

By SEMA Editors

The following candidates are vying for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:

Distributors/Retailers (one open seat):

• John Evankovich – Director, Sam’s Club
• Ted Wentz III – CEO, Quadratec, Inc.

Voting will take place online between May 12–May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company’s primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company’s designated primary contact beginning April 30. Winners will be announced by May 29 and formally inducted into the SEMA Board of Directors at the SEMA Installation & Gala,  July 24, 2020.