By SEMA Editors

The all-new ’20 Mustang Shelby GT500 is powered by a 760hp 5.2L V8 engine that delivers 625 lb.-ft. of torque.

Ford is donating a custom ’20 Mustang Shelby GT500 adorned in one-of-a-kind Venom paint that will be raffled to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and its battle against Type 1 diabetes.

The ’20 JDRF Mustang Shelby GT500 comes in a Venom metallic charcoal-color clearcoat with black painted over-the-top racing stripes. It has the carbon-fiber track package, including exposed carbon-fiber wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, rear seat-delete, Recaro leather-trimmed seats and a Mustang GT4 track wing.

“Building on the excitement around GT500 is a terrific way to help JDRF fund research and help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes,” said Dave Pericak, Ford director of enterprise product-line management. “Not only does this raffle provide an opportunity to win the most powerful production Ford ever, it also speaks to how Ford strives to make people’s lives better.”

Ford has been donating vehicles to JDRF for its raffle fundraiser for nearly a decade. Ford teamed up with Protean and Penske Vehicle Services to create this custom-colored pony car.

Ford and JDRF are aiming to sell 75,000 raffle tickets during this annual fundraiser to raise money for JDRF, which is an interntional leader in Type 1 diabetes research funding, programming and awareness.

The first-place raffle winner takes home the Venom Shelby GT500. The second-place winner will receive an all-inclusive VIP race experience for two to the 2020 Daytona 500.

Tickets can be purchased online until November 10, at $10 each. The drawing will be held November 14, at the Ford Conference and Event Center: 1151 Village Rd., Dearborn, MI. The winner does not need to be present at the raffle drawing to win.

’20 Mustang Shelby GT500

The all-new Mustang Shelby GT500 delivers the quickest street-legal acceleration and most high-performance technology to date ever offered in a Ford Mustang. Arriving this fall, the Shelby GT500 is powered by a 760hp 5.2L V8 engine that delivers 625 lb.-ft. of torque. Due to its first-in-class Tremec TR-9070 DCT seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Shelby GT500 can achieve a 0–100-0 in 10.6 seconds.

By SEMA Editors

Automotive enthusiasts who would like to take a look at some of the top vehicles and products from the trade-only 2019 SEMA Show can do so at SEMA Ignited—the official SEMA Show after-party, which will be held November 8, at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Platinum Lot, on the east side of LVCC (on Swenson Street, between Desert Inn Road and Sierra Vista Drive).

Following four days of business behind closed doors at LVCC, SEMA Ignited will give consumers an opportunity to take part in the excitement of the 2019 SEMA Show through an outdoor extravaganza that includes iconic builders, customized SEMA Show vehicles, drift demonstrations, food, entertainment and much more.

“SEMA Ignited is a great opportunity for enthusiasts to connect with the unique builds and products from the SEMA Show,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “There is something for everyone at SEMA Ignited, and all auto enthusiasts and consumers are invited to attend.”

At the conclusion of the SEMA Show, hundreds of custom-built vehicles roll out of the convention center and cruise to assemble at SEMA Ignited, where the public can see the elaborate work performed by the customizers and some of the newest and most innovative products used on the builds.

Spectators may also be included in the nationwide television special, as producers film the announcement of the 2019 SEMA Battle of the Builders winner during SEMA Ignited. The one-hour, nationwide television program will air in early 2020.

SEMA Show attendees receive complimentary admission with their Show badges, while general admission to SEMA Ignited is $20. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a paid general admission ticket. Premium tickets are available for $75 and include access to a reserved seating area, a free T-shirt and more.  

For more information about SEMA Ignited, visit www.semaignited.com. To learn more about the SEMA Show and apply for credentials, visit www.semashow.com or call 909-396-0289.   

By SEMA Editors

Automotive enthusiasts who would like to take a look at some of the top vehicles and products from the trade-only 2019 SEMA Show can do so at SEMA Ignited—the official SEMA Show after-party, which will be held November 8, at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Platinum Lot, on the east side of LVCC (on Swenson Street, between Desert Inn Road and Sierra Vista Drive).

Following four days of business behind closed doors at LVCC, SEMA Ignited will give consumers an opportunity to take part in the excitement of the 2019 SEMA Show through an outdoor extravaganza that includes iconic builders, customized SEMA Show vehicles, drift demonstrations, food, entertainment and much more.

“SEMA Ignited is a great opportunity for enthusiasts to connect with the unique builds and products from the SEMA Show,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “There is something for everyone at SEMA Ignited, and all auto enthusiasts and consumers are invited to attend.”

At the conclusion of the SEMA Show, hundreds of custom-built vehicles roll out of the convention center and cruise to assemble at SEMA Ignited, where the public can see the elaborate work performed by the customizers and some of the newest and most innovative products used on the builds.

Spectators may also be included in the nationwide television special, as producers film the announcement of the 2019 SEMA Battle of the Builders winner during SEMA Ignited. The one-hour, nationwide television program will air in early 2020.

SEMA Show attendees receive complimentary admission with their Show badges, while general admission to SEMA Ignited is $20. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a paid general admission ticket. Premium tickets are available for $75 and include access to a reserved seating area, a free T-shirt and more.  

For more information about SEMA Ignited, visit www.semaignited.com. To learn more about the SEMA Show and apply for credentials, visit www.semashow.com or call 909-396-0289.   

By SEMA Editors

Automotive enthusiasts who would like to take a look at some of the top vehicles and products from the trade-only 2019 SEMA Show can do so at SEMA Ignited—the official SEMA Show after-party, which will be held November 8, at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Platinum Lot, on the east side of LVCC (on Swenson Street, between Desert Inn Road and Sierra Vista Drive).

Following four days of business behind closed doors at LVCC, SEMA Ignited will give consumers an opportunity to take part in the excitement of the 2019 SEMA Show through an outdoor extravaganza that includes iconic builders, customized SEMA Show vehicles, drift demonstrations, food, entertainment and much more.

“SEMA Ignited is a great opportunity for enthusiasts to connect with the unique builds and products from the SEMA Show,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “There is something for everyone at SEMA Ignited, and all auto enthusiasts and consumers are invited to attend.”

At the conclusion of the SEMA Show, hundreds of custom-built vehicles roll out of the convention center and cruise to assemble at SEMA Ignited, where the public can see the elaborate work performed by the customizers and some of the newest and most innovative products used on the builds.

Spectators may also be included in the nationwide television special, as producers film the announcement of the 2019 SEMA Battle of the Builders winner during SEMA Ignited. The one-hour, nationwide television program will air in early 2020.

SEMA Show attendees receive complimentary admission with their Show badges, while general admission to SEMA Ignited is $20. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a paid general admission ticket. Premium tickets are available for $75 and include access to a reserved seating area, a free T-shirt and more.  

For more information about SEMA Ignited, visit www.semaignited.com. To learn more about the SEMA Show and apply for credentials, visit www.semashow.com or call 909-396-0289.   

By SEMA Editors

The free SEMA Show mobile app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the Show.

The official 2019 SEMA Show mobile app is now available for download. The free app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the exclusive trade show, held November 5–8 in Las Vegas.

“The SEMA Show mobile app enables Showgoers to leverage all the Show has to offer,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The app has been updated and new features have been added, making it the ideal tool to stay informed on everything happening at the 2019 SEMA Show.”

New this year is an interactive feature that gives users detailed information on featured vehicles displayed throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center. By simply scanning a vehicle’s QR code, located on a Feature Vehicle sticker attached to the vehicle during check-in, the app will display the vehicle’s year, make and model, information on the exhibitor displaying the vehicle and a list of products used on the vehicle. The app also allows users to access a list of exhibitors from 2018 and any saved product information.

Other features of the 2019 SEMA Show mobile app include:

• Turn-By-Turn Directions: Find the quickest route from one place to another without the need of a GPS or data service. Simply enter an exhibitor name or room nearest to you and where you want to go, and the app will provide directions.
• My Schedule: Create a schedule to keep track of the events you wish to attend.
• New Products Showcase: View all of the products entered into the New Products Showcase, complete with detailed information and photos, exactly where within the Showcase the product is displayed, and directions to the exhibitor’s booth on the Show floor.
• Product Scanner: Use your smartphone as a scanner at the New Products Showcase to create a list and map of the scanned products.
• Maps: View floorplans of all SEMA Show halls and how/where they connect to make passage from hall to hall as easy as possible.
• Exhibitors: Look up all 2019 SEMA Show exhibitors by name, Show section or product category.
• Events, Celebrity Appearances and Speakers: See lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location.
• Social Media: Keep up with the feeds of the official SEMA Show social media accounts, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
• Ground Transportation: Find the best way to arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Obtain information on the Las Vegas Monorail, rideshare and hotel shuttles, including pickup locations.
• SEMA eNews: Stay up to date with the latest news before, during and after the Show.

“A lot of planning has gone into making the app a valuable resource for Showgoers and will make navigating the Show and staying informed easy,” said Gattuso. “Attendees should use it in their Show preparation, while experiencing the event onsite and after they return home form the Show.”

The 2019 SEMA Show mobile app can be downloaded at no cost from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or www.semashow.com/app.

By SEMA Editors

The free SEMA Show mobile app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the Show.

The official 2019 SEMA Show mobile app is now available for download. The free app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the exclusive trade show, held November 5–8 in Las Vegas.

“The SEMA Show mobile app enables Showgoers to leverage all the Show has to offer,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The app has been updated and new features have been added, making it the ideal tool to stay informed on everything happening at the 2019 SEMA Show.”

New this year is an interactive feature that gives users detailed information on featured vehicles displayed throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center. By simply scanning a vehicle’s QR code, located on a Feature Vehicle sticker attached to the vehicle during check-in, the app will display the vehicle’s year, make and model, information on the exhibitor displaying the vehicle and a list of products used on the vehicle. The app also allows users to access a list of exhibitors from 2018 and any saved product information.

Other features of the 2019 SEMA Show mobile app include:

• Turn-By-Turn Directions: Find the quickest route from one place to another without the need of a GPS or data service. Simply enter an exhibitor name or room nearest to you and where you want to go, and the app will provide directions.
• My Schedule: Create a schedule to keep track of the events you wish to attend.
• New Products Showcase: View all of the products entered into the New Products Showcase, complete with detailed information and photos, exactly where within the Showcase the product is displayed, and directions to the exhibitor’s booth on the Show floor.
• Product Scanner: Use your smartphone as a scanner at the New Products Showcase to create a list and map of the scanned products.
• Maps: View floorplans of all SEMA Show halls and how/where they connect to make passage from hall to hall as easy as possible.
• Exhibitors: Look up all 2019 SEMA Show exhibitors by name, Show section or product category.
• Events, Celebrity Appearances and Speakers: See lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location.
• Social Media: Keep up with the feeds of the official SEMA Show social media accounts, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
• Ground Transportation: Find the best way to arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Obtain information on the Las Vegas Monorail, rideshare and hotel shuttles, including pickup locations.
• SEMA eNews: Stay up to date with the latest news before, during and after the Show.

“A lot of planning has gone into making the app a valuable resource for Showgoers and will make navigating the Show and staying informed easy,” said Gattuso. “Attendees should use it in their Show preparation, while experiencing the event onsite and after they return home form the Show.”

The 2019 SEMA Show mobile app can be downloaded at no cost from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or www.semashow.com/app.

By SEMA Editors

The free SEMA Show mobile app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the Show.

The official 2019 SEMA Show mobile app is now available for download. The free app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the exclusive trade show, held November 5–8 in Las Vegas.

“The SEMA Show mobile app enables Showgoers to leverage all the Show has to offer,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The app has been updated and new features have been added, making it the ideal tool to stay informed on everything happening at the 2019 SEMA Show.”

New this year is an interactive feature that gives users detailed information on featured vehicles displayed throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center. By simply scanning a vehicle’s QR code, located on a Feature Vehicle sticker attached to the vehicle during check-in, the app will display the vehicle’s year, make and model, information on the exhibitor displaying the vehicle and a list of products used on the vehicle. The app also allows users to access a list of exhibitors from 2018 and any saved product information.

Other features of the 2019 SEMA Show mobile app include:

• Turn-By-Turn Directions: Find the quickest route from one place to another without the need of a GPS or data service. Simply enter an exhibitor name or room nearest to you and where you want to go, and the app will provide directions.
• My Schedule: Create a schedule to keep track of the events you wish to attend.
• New Products Showcase: View all of the products entered into the New Products Showcase, complete with detailed information and photos, exactly where within the Showcase the product is displayed, and directions to the exhibitor’s booth on the Show floor.
• Product Scanner: Use your smartphone as a scanner at the New Products Showcase to create a list and map of the scanned products.
• Maps: View floorplans of all SEMA Show halls and how/where they connect to make passage from hall to hall as easy as possible.
• Exhibitors: Look up all 2019 SEMA Show exhibitors by name, Show section or product category.
• Events, Celebrity Appearances and Speakers: See lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location.
• Social Media: Keep up with the feeds of the official SEMA Show social media accounts, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
• Ground Transportation: Find the best way to arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Obtain information on the Las Vegas Monorail, rideshare and hotel shuttles, including pickup locations.
• SEMA eNews: Stay up to date with the latest news before, during and after the Show.

“A lot of planning has gone into making the app a valuable resource for Showgoers and will make navigating the Show and staying informed easy,” said Gattuso. “Attendees should use it in their Show preparation, while experiencing the event onsite and after they return home form the Show.”

The 2019 SEMA Show mobile app can be downloaded at no cost from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or www.semashow.com/app.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Mike King

Mike King Named SCCA’s Next Director of Solo and Rally

Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) has announced that longtime solo competitor and club member Mike King has been selected to serve as SCCA’s next director of Solo and Rally. October 1 is when King, a multi-time Solo champion, will officially take on his new role. In his new position, King will be tasked with planning, directing and coordinating the activities of the Rally and Solo competition departments. He will oversee development of new programs, products and services, as well as develop new approaches to existing programs, products and services. The incoming director of Rally/Solo will begin a new chapter for the programs, with a focus on member experience, operational excellence, technology and program development. He will also serve as a member of SCCA’s senior staff in the establishment of strategic and operational plans for the organization. An SCCA member for nearly 30 years, King is a four-time Tire Rack Solo national champion, two-time Tire Rack ProSolo national champion and a two-time Solo Triad Award winner. Beyond involvement in both SCCA Solo and Road Racing activities, King has been active in the Club as a member of the Buccaneer Region board of directors, an assistant regional executive, regional Solo chairman and event chairman for Divisional, National Tour and ProSolo events. He has also worked as an event manager for Evolution Performance Driving School, and SCCA’s Starting Line and Track Night in America Driven by Tire Rack programs.

As chief digital cartographer at MAPCO, King managed a team of cartographers and graphic artists for several years before becoming the company’s president, tasked with developing new strategies and vision to modernize all facets of production, oversee budgets, expand into new markets and create products. He went on to become founder of HomePhotoPro, a company that develops and manages real-estate photography services. King has also been the owner and managing broker of HomePro Realty where he oversaw all aspects of the company.

Robert Eichelberg

LC Power Tools Names Robert Eichelberg Global Sales Director

LC Power Tools has announced the appointment of Robert Eichelberg as global sales director. In his new role, Eichelberg will oversee sales and marketing for the professional power tool manufacturer. He has more than 40 years of experience in the power-tool market, most recently serving as president of Flex North America—a position he held from 2001–2019. His prior experience includes work for Black & Decker/DeWalt, Skil and Porter Cable power tool brands.

Northwood University Auto Show, 56 Years Strong

Year after year, the students of Northwood University work tirelessly to produce the Northwood University International Auto Show (NUIAS), one of the largest outdoor, new-car shows in North America. Now in its 56th year, the 2019 show will feature more than 500 vehicles from 65 manufacturers. Being 100% student-run, the show is funded by the generosity of alumni, supporters, friends and corporations. This year, NUIAS is looking back on its legacy as a premier experiential learning and guest destination. Student captains are focusing on showcasing the history of their brand's most iconic vehicles. The NUIAS takes place September 27–29. Complete information is available at www.nuias.northwood.edu.

Gary P. Mercer

Continental Names Gary P. Mercer Western Sales Manager

Continental has named Gary P. Mercer western sales manager. In this role, Mercer will manage Continental’s aftermarket program for the traditional warehouse distributor network. Mercer will work with all of Continental aftermarket product lines, including TPMS sensors and service parts, blower motors, fan assemblies, door systems, OE replacement parts, wiper blades and brake system parts. Prior to joining Continental, Mercer was the western divisional sales director for Promax Auto Parts Depot and served as the director of sales and marketing for Best Brakes. He was also executive vice president at ABC Brakes, where he helped to develop the company’s corporate structure and marketing plan to help bring a new supplier to the automotive aftermarket. As vice president of sales and marketing at Transglobe Automotive Inc., Mercer created a marketing program that helped pave the way for business opportunities with major retailers and program groups. Mercer was also vice president of sales, Western U.S. at IAP /Dura International, vice president of sales and marketing at Best Brakes and North American aftermarket sales director for Brembo NA.

Zero Labs Automotive has transformed a first-generation (’66–’77) Ford Bronco into a premium classic electric vehicle.

Zero Labs Transforms First-Gen Bronco Into a Fully Electric Vehicle

Zero Labs Automotive offered the first detailed view of its second transformation of a first-generation (’66–’77) Ford Bronco into a premium classic electric vehicle, which was modified in the company’s new headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The newly modified vehicle is handcrafted with aerospace-grade carbon-fiber components, Eames-inspired walnut consoles, a full digital display and more than 1,000 other newly designed parts that marry classic design and modern quality standards. According to the company, these vehicles are low-maintenance, environmentally friendly and offer luxury and refinement. They are available for pre-order. To retain the Bronco’s off-road appeal, the Zero Labs electric vehicles feature an Atlas 2 (two-speed) transfer case, Currie front and rear differentials and adjustable FOX coilover suspension, complete with Brembo six-piston caliper brakes. Electric performance includes digital telematics, custom all-digital gauges, VCU and CAN Network, a 70 kWh battery, 190-mile range, and a 440hp permanent magnet AC motor with 375 Nm/277 lb.-ft. of motor torque. Initial costs are estimated to be at the upper end of the current classic Ford Bronco market of $275,000–$325,000, depending on customization and customer requests. Deliveries are expected to begin in late 2020.

Rosana Del Rio

DEI Names Rosana Del Rio New International Account Manager

DEI has named Rosana Del Rio as the company’s international account manager. According to the company, the all-new position was filled to ensure that DEI becomes a global leader in thermal and acoustic control products. Del Rio joined DEI in May and brings to the company a diverse background in account management and sales. She is tasked with working with existing clients and growing new international sales with a primary focus on Latin America and the Middle East. She reports directly to Tom Miller, DEI’s vice president of sales and marketing. Prior to joining DEI, she served as a relationship and personal banker for Key Bank and Huntington National Bank, and worked as a major account executive for Ricoh USA and sales manager and account executive for Konica Minolta. In addition, she was responsible for the team’s success at developing winning marketing strategies based on analyzing the competition, market trends, product mix and price structure at Konica Minolta. As account executive, she worked on developing multidisciplinary business plans that incorporated workflow and document management to include clouding solutions, IT processes and digital management. As account executive at MCPc, she managed more than 100 clients.

VMI CEO Mark Shaughnessy

VMI Signs Exclusive Deal with Mobility Networks to Expand Accessible Product Line

Vantage Mobility International (VMI) has announced an exclusive agreement with Mobility Networks that will make VMI the sole provider of Mobility Networks’ global products for WAVs now sold in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Under the agreement, VMI will offer Mobility Networks’ products for installation on many of the most popular vehicles on the road today for both consumer and commercial applications. Customers will be able to order products for installation on vehicles shipped from VMI’s factory locations in Tucker, Georgia, and Clarkston, Michigan. According to the companies, with an estimated reduction of required inventoried parts by 69%, dealers will be able to provide service with ease and deliver faster turnaround time, successfully getting customers back on the road sooner. In addition, VMI customers who purchase a new or used vehicle will receive one year of complimentary roadside assistance membership through the VMI Assurance Program.

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 Katie Hurst

The SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program is entering its third round of custom vehicle builds. Earlier this year, SEMA partnered with five high-school auto-shop classes across the country to accessorize five Jeep Wrangler TJs. Using aftermarket products donated by 33 sponsoring companies, students customized the Jeeps concentrating on wheels/tires, suspension, and interior and exterior accessories. In doing so, about 200 students were introduced to automotive customization as a hobby, learned new skills and concepts, and gained insight for a career path in the aftermarket.

SEMA will partner with high-school auto shops to complete 10 customization builds in the 2019–2020 school year. The five high school partners from the spring 2019 builds will return to the program for a second build. Applications are now open for five new schools to partner with SEMA in this hand-on educational experience.

Selected high schools will receive:

• One vehicle purchased and provided by SEMA.
• Aftermarket products donated by sponsoring manufacturers.
• Allocation of SEMA parts budget for additional products and labor as approved by SEMA.
• Connections to local and nationally based manufacturers and service providers.
• Introductions to and visits from aftermarket industry professionals.
• SEMA staff support and guidance throughout the build.
• SEMA build guidelines.
• Pending approval from SEMA, option to participate in build program the following year.

All high-school auto shops are invited to apply until the September 25 deadline. If you work with or know of a high-school auto shop in your local area, SEMA encourages you to send them a link to the application.

Learn more about the SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program. For questions about the program, contact Katie Hurst at 909-978-6693.

The following are some of the highlights of this year’s build and the names and locations of the participating schools:

Santa Fe ECO, Santa Fe, New Mexico ’05 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport SEMA partnered with Santa Fe ECO in 2018 to pilot the high school vehicle build program in which they built a ’15 Jeep Wrangler that was auctioned off for more than $56,000. The sale of this vehicle allowed the program to expand to five builds in 2019. The students of Santa Fe ECO turned out another awesome build—a ’05 Jeep Wrangler that uniquely features a vented hood, trail doors, a 3.5-in. suspension kit with a 5-in. stretch from Rock Krawler Suspension and has undergone a full body repaint.
Comstock High School, Kalamazoo, Michigan ’04 Jeep Wrangler Sahara The Comstock High School auto-shop class in Kalamazoo Michigan, made excellent use of local resources and connections for their ’04 Jeep Wrangler build, including a program alumnus that is now a local body shop business owner. This is the program’s only hard-top Jeep that even includes a locally sourced donated roof rack from Just Jeep’N Stuff. Other unique features include LED headlights, full carpet replacement, bumpers, tire carrier and rock sliders from JcrOffroad, a 4-in. Skyjacker suspension kit and a fresh coat of paint.
C.D. Hylton High School, Woodbridge, Virginia ’02 Jeep Wrangler Sport The students of C.D. Hylton performed a frame-off restoration on their ’02 Jeep Wrangler; they even painted the vehicle’s chassis. Along with the customization, the students did extensive work under the hood to ensure this Jeep runs with no issues. It has received a full body repaint, a brand-new windshield from Safelite, a front-door weatherstrip from Steele Rubber Products, a new hood from LQK/Keystone and a Rancho Suspension 3.5-in. short arm suspension kit.
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, Santa Ynez, California ’97 Jeep Wrangler Sport The ’97 Jeep Wrangler from Santa Ynez sits on 37-in. Atturo Off-Road Tires with Black Rock Wheels and is topped with an American flag-themed bikini top. This build is fully outfitted with Rugged Ridge products and also features a T-REX grille, Superlift Suspension 4-in. lift kit and LLumar window tint.
R.L. Turner High School, Carrollton, Texas ’04 Jeep Wrangler X The ’04 Jeep Wrangler from the students of R.L. Turner caught the attention of Dennis Collins of Collins Bros. Jeep, who visited the school and donated the build’s winch and front bumper. The build also features custom seatbelts from Seatbelt Planet, Rolling Big Power wheels and a Painless Performance trail rocker.

By Katie Hurst

The SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program is entering its third round of custom vehicle builds. Earlier this year, SEMA partnered with five high-school auto-shop classes across the country to accessorize five Jeep Wrangler TJs. Using aftermarket products donated by 33 sponsoring companies, students customized the Jeeps concentrating on wheels/tires, suspension, and interior and exterior accessories. In doing so, about 200 students were introduced to automotive customization as a hobby, learned new skills and concepts, and gained insight for a career path in the aftermarket.

SEMA will partner with high-school auto shops to complete 10 customization builds in the 2019–2020 school year. The five high school partners from the spring 2019 builds will return to the program for a second build. Applications are now open for five new schools to partner with SEMA in this hand-on educational experience.

Selected high schools will receive:

• One vehicle purchased and provided by SEMA.
• Aftermarket products donated by sponsoring manufacturers.
• Allocation of SEMA parts budget for additional products and labor as approved by SEMA.
• Connections to local and nationally based manufacturers and service providers.
• Introductions to and visits from aftermarket industry professionals.
• SEMA staff support and guidance throughout the build.
• SEMA build guidelines.
• Pending approval from SEMA, option to participate in build program the following year.

All high-school auto shops are invited to apply until the September 25 deadline. If you work with or know of a high-school auto shop in your local area, SEMA encourages you to send them a link to the application.

Learn more about the SEMA High School Vehicle Build Program. For questions about the program, contact Katie Hurst at 909-978-6693.

The following are some of the highlights of this year’s build and the names and locations of the participating schools:

Santa Fe ECO, Santa Fe, New Mexico ’05 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport SEMA partnered with Santa Fe ECO in 2018 to pilot the high school vehicle build program in which they built a ’15 Jeep Wrangler that was auctioned off for more than $56,000. The sale of this vehicle allowed the program to expand to five builds in 2019. The students of Santa Fe ECO turned out another awesome build—a ’05 Jeep Wrangler that uniquely features a vented hood, trail doors, a 3.5-in. suspension kit with a 5-in. stretch from Rock Krawler Suspension and has undergone a full body repaint.
Comstock High School, Kalamazoo, Michigan ’04 Jeep Wrangler Sahara The Comstock High School auto-shop class in Kalamazoo Michigan, made excellent use of local resources and connections for their ’04 Jeep Wrangler build, including a program alumnus that is now a local body shop business owner. This is the program’s only hard-top Jeep that even includes a locally sourced donated roof rack from Just Jeep’N Stuff. Other unique features include LED headlights, full carpet replacement, bumpers, tire carrier and rock sliders from JcrOffroad, a 4-in. Skyjacker suspension kit and a fresh coat of paint.
C.D. Hylton High School, Woodbridge, Virginia ’02 Jeep Wrangler Sport The students of C.D. Hylton performed a frame-off restoration on their ’02 Jeep Wrangler; they even painted the vehicle’s chassis. Along with the customization, the students did extensive work under the hood to ensure this Jeep runs with no issues. It has received a full body repaint, a brand-new windshield from Safelite, a front-door weatherstrip from Steele Rubber Products, a new hood from LQK/Keystone and a Rancho Suspension 3.5-in. short arm suspension kit.
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, Santa Ynez, California ’97 Jeep Wrangler Sport The ’97 Jeep Wrangler from Santa Ynez sits on 37-in. Atturo Off-Road Tires with Black Rock Wheels and is topped with an American flag-themed bikini top. This build is fully outfitted with Rugged Ridge products and also features a T-REX grille, Superlift Suspension 4-in. lift kit and LLumar window tint.
R.L. Turner High School, Carrollton, Texas ’04 Jeep Wrangler X The ’04 Jeep Wrangler from the students of R.L. Turner caught the attention of Dennis Collins of Collins Bros. Jeep, who visited the school and donated the build’s winch and front bumper. The build also features custom seatbelts from Seatbelt Planet, Rolling Big Power wheels and a Painless Performance trail rocker.