SEMA Member News—September 2019

ARMO Reveals Restoration Event Schedule

ARMO and HRIA combine their efforts during the SEMA Show for their booth.

In the summer of 1993, three SEMA committees became the first niche-market councils: the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA, known then as the Street Rod Market Alliance), the Professional Restylers Organization, and the Automotive Restoration Market Alliance (ARMO). In the decades since, ARMO has earned a reputation for delivering programs and resources to help advance the restoration industry. As ARMO gears up for the SEMA Show, the council is set to host programs and events throughout the week that are certain to appeal to anyone engaged in the restoration hobby, be they retailers, distributors, manufacturers, builders or restorers.

ARMO Stands Tall  in Central Hall

The Restoration Marketplace section at the SEMA Show occupies a prominent position within the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), in close proximity to Hot Rod Alley. An equally prominent adjacent space known as Central Park (booth #23395) is jointly shared by ARMO and HRIA.

The booth display is a collaborative effort between the two councils. It features six vehicles—three from each council—with each vehicle selected for its distinctive style and representation of its respective market segment. To add to the allure, one vehicle from each segment will remain covered until a formal unveiling on Tuesday, November 5.

“We work very closely with HRIA on the shared space and try to pick complementary vehicles,” said ARMO Chair Tray Smith. “We try to show a variety of vehicles—not just pure restoration and not just pure hot rod but a mixture of what the market is currently showing.”

But the booth is more than a feature-vehicle display; it’s also an oasis. Comfortable seating areas provide a welcoming setting for ARMO members to kick back, network and discuss business. SEMA staff and ARMO select committee members are on hand throughout the Show to answer questions and encourage non-members to learn about ARMO and its many programs and benefits.

“The booth is always manned by at least one member from each council,” Smith said. “We’re there to answer questions from potential members and about the cars. We also pass out information on joining SEMA. It’s a great place for council members to not only rest but also to host meetings. All ARMO members are invited to stop by.”

ARMO Reception Celebrates the Industry

Steve Ames surprised with ARMO Lifetime Achievement award.

ARMO kicks off its event schedule with its annual awards reception on Tuesday, November 5. Scheduled for 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, the festive occasion is a once-a-year opportunity for members to gather in celebration of the restoration industry, pay tribute to leading luminaries, network, and enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages.

The high point of the evening is the awards ceremony. Last year, ARMO presented awards in four categories: the ARMO Person of the Year, the ARMO Business of the Year, the Gavel award and the Lifetime Achievement award. Three industry leaders were also inducted into the ARMO Hall  of Fame.

During this year’s presentation, hosted by Tim Strange of Strange Motion, ARMO will recognize the winners of the Person of the Year and the Business of the Year and the new-product award winners. Selected from the council’s Hot Products Showcase held earlier at an event in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, the new-product award categories include interior, exterior/trim, drivetrain/suspension and accessories.

“Every year at this event, we present the ARMO Person of the Year and ARMO Business of the Year awards, and we highlight our five product showcase winners,” Smith said. “It’s a great networking event, and we encourage our members to come, have hors d’oeuvres and a drink, and enjoy themselves and the program.”

ARMO Launches Breakfast Gathering

Long days on the Show floor are exhausting. And the idea of rising early to attend a council meeting can be a turnoff, which is why ARMO has revamped its annual general membership meeting. Now known as Breakfast With ARMO, the event will be held on Wednesday, November 6.

“For as long as I’ve been volunteering, there’s always been a general membership meeting on Wednesday morning,” Smith noted. “But who wants to go to an early meeting just to hear the select committee talk for an hour and a half? So instead, we’ve rebranded the meeting as a networking event.”

While still on the docket for 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., the informal gathering is designed to encourage conversation and interaction between council members, newcomers and the select committee. To jumpstart the morning, everyone will be treated to a continental breakfast, some warm selections and a coffee bar.

“By rebranding this as a breakfast, we hope to attract new members and current members who may not be actively involved,” Smith said. “We plan to keep it casual and low key and make it an enjoyable experience. Having the select committee sit at different assigned tables will give everyone a chance to network, ask questions and learn how to get involved in our three big projects, Take a Kid to a Car Show, our Hot Products Showcase and our newest project, the High School Counselor Outreach.”

ARMO to Host Restoration Builder’s Panel

Want a chance to meet and engage with some of the restoration industry’s foremost builders? Then plan to attend the ever-popular Restoration Builder’s Panel, sponsored by ARMO. On tap for Wednesday, November 6, from 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. in room N258 at the LVCC, the panel will feature well-known builders who’ll talk about how to turn a passion into a career as well as offer insider tips on best business practices and what it takes to succeed. Panelists will welcome questions and the opportunity to engage with the audience.

The topic this year is “The Distinction Between a Restoration and a Restomod.” They differ in that one is a classic car beautifully preserved in factory-new condition versus a vintage car that looks original but sports high-performance bells and whistles.

To tackle that topic, ARMO has assembled an impressive panel that includes EJ Fitzgerald of Cool Hand Customs, Tim Strange of Strange Motion and Canadians Jesse and Jordan Henke of JH Restorations. A fourth panelist, not yet confirmed, may be a builder who converts classic cars to EV propulsion.

“We’re not trying to segregate restoration from restomod,” Smith said. “We’re trying to define what makes them what they are. It promises to be a lively discussion.”

SEMA Member News—September 2019

ETTN to Deliver Technology-Focused Learning Experiences

SEMA’s Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak gives a presentation on vehicle technology during an ETTN-sponsored education seminar.

The Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) is a community within SEMA dedicated to providing a forum for technology-centered aftermarket professionals to connect, collaborate, learn and advance their careers. With that focus in mind, ETTN has centered its attention on presenting professional-development and career-enhancing opportunities at this year’s  SEMA Show.

Engage and Connect at ETTN Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn

From 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, ETTN will present its sixth annual Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn. The event offers tech-savvy attendees an opportunity to talk about the latest vehicle technology trends and mingle with leading industry experts in an informal setting.

“Are you an engineer, fabricator or technical professional in your business?” asked ETTN Chair Ian Lehn. “Do you get hungry at lunchtime? Then you should seriously consider taking advantage of ETTN’s unique Tech Lunch & Learn. Our roundtable-style event will enable you to sit with experts in various disciplines ranging from additive manufacturing to rapid prototyping and legal consulting. It’s a great opportunity to connect with engineers and other technical professionals and grow your resource base, while grabbing a free meal and getting off your feet. Join us and let’s grow the industry.”

The event is also an opportunity to honor and celebrate outstanding achievement in the technology sector. Awards will be presented in three categories.

The ETTN Genius Award pays tribute to individuals whose innovations have made significant contributions toward advancing technology that positively impacts the growth and progress of the automotive industry.

The ETTN Techie Award recognizes an individual for engineering achievements of a product, process or component that demonstrates innovative or original engineering development and/or advances state-of-the-art technology as it pertains to the automotive industry or  product sector.

ETTN will also salute the winner of its Ambassador Award, which recognizes an ETTN member who has demonstrated exceptional volunteer contributions or increased membership and awareness of ETTN during the past year.

Take a Deep Dive Into Evolving Technology

Providing educational and business-growth opportunities are top ETTN priorities. Within that context, the network sponsors technology-rich seminars during the SEMA Show. This year’s Vehicle Technology Track will consist of a series of forums led by industry experts who will share valuable insights and information on the ever-evolving technology landscape.

“The technology seminars cater specifically to the innovators and developers of our industry,” Lehn said. “They aim to engage the curious and provide information on where the future of the aftermarket is headed. It is imperative that any company planning to grow and develop new ideas has representation at these seminars. With technology evolving exponentially, it is one of the best ways to ensure that you stay at the forefront.”

The technology track includes five high-powered sessions. To kick off the program on Monday, November 4, industry experts will delve into “3-D printing in the Automotive Industry: How It Will Benefit Your Business.” The session will focus on how 3-D printing is driving innovation, improving efficiency with quick design iterations, improving design cycles and thereby reducing time to market, and increasing worker productivity and safety, among other relevant aspects of additive manufacturing.

On tap for Tuesday, November 5, is a session titled “Racing and Performance Forum: Keeping Technology at the Forefront,” during which attendees will hear directly from a full grid of frontline leaders, experts and drivers on the latest technologies and innovations being used in racing and adapted to production, as well as the direction and importance of motorsports technology to the future of the performance industry.

Two technology-centered seminars are slated for Wednesday, November 6. First up: “Advanced Vehicle Technology: Practice, Policy and Challenges.” As advanced-vehicle technology changes how vehicles are designed, developed, serviced and customized, SEMA-member manufacturers, distributors and installers are facing increasing challenges now and in the years to come. The panel discussion will focus on practices, policies and product-liability considerations attendees need to know to grow and prosper in an evolving aftermarket.

The afternoon session, “Automotive 4.0: New Technologies, New Opportunities,” will bring together leading technology experts to discuss how SEMA members can compete in today’s rapidly evolving market segments as well as understand and leverage new aftermarket growth opportunities and the latest product-development and manufacturing technologies.

The fifth seminar, “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Forum: Next-Gen Safety Performance,” is scheduled for Thursday, November 7. Many ADAS systems are already on board popular vehicles modified by member companies. To ensure that members’ aftermarket products and modifications can be successfully integrated with the latest factory-installed ADAS technologies, the briefing will touch on key considerations, including new business opportunities for passive aftermarket ADAS products, challenges members encounter with ADAS technologies, and identifying potential resources, practices, tools and approaches required to develop solutions.

SEMA Member News—September 2019

ETTN to Deliver Technology-Focused Learning Experiences

SEMA’s Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak gives a presentation on vehicle technology during an ETTN-sponsored education seminar.

The Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) is a community within SEMA dedicated to providing a forum for technology-centered aftermarket professionals to connect, collaborate, learn and advance their careers. With that focus in mind, ETTN has centered its attention on presenting professional-development and career-enhancing opportunities at this year’s  SEMA Show.

Engage and Connect at ETTN Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn

From 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, ETTN will present its sixth annual Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn. The event offers tech-savvy attendees an opportunity to talk about the latest vehicle technology trends and mingle with leading industry experts in an informal setting.

“Are you an engineer, fabricator or technical professional in your business?” asked ETTN Chair Ian Lehn. “Do you get hungry at lunchtime? Then you should seriously consider taking advantage of ETTN’s unique Tech Lunch & Learn. Our roundtable-style event will enable you to sit with experts in various disciplines ranging from additive manufacturing to rapid prototyping and legal consulting. It’s a great opportunity to connect with engineers and other technical professionals and grow your resource base, while grabbing a free meal and getting off your feet. Join us and let’s grow the industry.”

The event is also an opportunity to honor and celebrate outstanding achievement in the technology sector. Awards will be presented in three categories.

The ETTN Genius Award pays tribute to individuals whose innovations have made significant contributions toward advancing technology that positively impacts the growth and progress of the automotive industry.

The ETTN Techie Award recognizes an individual for engineering achievements of a product, process or component that demonstrates innovative or original engineering development and/or advances state-of-the-art technology as it pertains to the automotive industry or  product sector.

ETTN will also salute the winner of its Ambassador Award, which recognizes an ETTN member who has demonstrated exceptional volunteer contributions or increased membership and awareness of ETTN during the past year.

Take a Deep Dive Into Evolving Technology

Providing educational and business-growth opportunities are top ETTN priorities. Within that context, the network sponsors technology-rich seminars during the SEMA Show. This year’s Vehicle Technology Track will consist of a series of forums led by industry experts who will share valuable insights and information on the ever-evolving technology landscape.

“The technology seminars cater specifically to the innovators and developers of our industry,” Lehn said. “They aim to engage the curious and provide information on where the future of the aftermarket is headed. It is imperative that any company planning to grow and develop new ideas has representation at these seminars. With technology evolving exponentially, it is one of the best ways to ensure that you stay at the forefront.”

The technology track includes five high-powered sessions. To kick off the program on Monday, November 4, industry experts will delve into “3-D printing in the Automotive Industry: How It Will Benefit Your Business.” The session will focus on how 3-D printing is driving innovation, improving efficiency with quick design iterations, improving design cycles and thereby reducing time to market, and increasing worker productivity and safety, among other relevant aspects of additive manufacturing.

On tap for Tuesday, November 5, is a session titled “Racing and Performance Forum: Keeping Technology at the Forefront,” during which attendees will hear directly from a full grid of frontline leaders, experts and drivers on the latest technologies and innovations being used in racing and adapted to production, as well as the direction and importance of motorsports technology to the future of the performance industry.

Two technology-centered seminars are slated for Wednesday, November 6. First up: “Advanced Vehicle Technology: Practice, Policy and Challenges.” As advanced-vehicle technology changes how vehicles are designed, developed, serviced and customized, SEMA-member manufacturers, distributors and installers are facing increasing challenges now and in the years to come. The panel discussion will focus on practices, policies and product-liability considerations attendees need to know to grow and prosper in an evolving aftermarket.

The afternoon session, “Automotive 4.0: New Technologies, New Opportunities,” will bring together leading technology experts to discuss how SEMA members can compete in today’s rapidly evolving market segments as well as understand and leverage new aftermarket growth opportunities and the latest product-development and manufacturing technologies.

The fifth seminar, “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Forum: Next-Gen Safety Performance,” is scheduled for Thursday, November 7. Many ADAS systems are already on board popular vehicles modified by member companies. To ensure that members’ aftermarket products and modifications can be successfully integrated with the latest factory-installed ADAS technologies, the briefing will touch on key considerations, including new business opportunities for passive aftermarket ADAS products, challenges members encounter with ADAS technologies, and identifying potential resources, practices, tools and approaches required to develop solutions.

SEMA Member News—September 2019

By Ellen McKoy

Tale of Two Companies

How a Manufacturer and a Restomod Builder Maximize Their SEMA Memberships

For shops, builders and manufacturers, SEMA can be much more than just a trade show.

Every year, scores of industry professionals from throughout the specialty-equipment marketplace make their annual pilgrimage to the SEMA Show. And while they are primarily there to take advantage of buy-and-sell opportunities, many fail to dig deeper to find out what else SEMA has to offer. Perhaps it’s because they’re unaware that SEMA is much more than just a trade show. Or they’re not sure how to get their foot in the door and take that first step to getting involved.

“For some folks, attending the Show is about as close as they get to being involved in SEMA,” said Sabra Johnson, owner of City Classic Cars in Houston, Texas, who was recently elected to the ARMO select committee. “I believe success starts with SEMA.”

“A lot of people go to the Show, go home and forget they’re SEMA members,” said Nils Forssman, president of Truck Covers USA in San Diego, California. “That’s a disadvantage to them. The most important thing is to use your membership to the fullest, and you’ll really benefit from getting involved.”

Face Time With a Congressman

Truck Covers USA has been a member of SEMA and the Light Truck Accessory Alliance (now the Truck & Off-Road Alliance) since 2002, and Forssman has experienced the value of membership firsthand. In 2007, LTAA-member manufacturers teamed with SEMA to conduct a wind-tunnel project to assess the effects of tonneau covers on coefficient of drag. Forssman noted that the study’s findings—that tonneaus help to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency—were a boon to manufacturers  like him.

Forssman’s company has joined the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), earning platinum-level status by exerting extra effort to provide participating SDC resellers with the most complete product data available.

“We use a number of services that SEMA offers—the SDC, other data, meetings, networking opportunities—it’s a huge benefit,” he said.

Forssman has also hosted SEMA Town Halls.

“We held the events annually for two or three years,” he said. “Since we know so many members, we thought it would be a great opportunity to bring everyone together, share our great experiences with being SEMA members, and just have fun.”

At one event at the San Diego Automotive Museum, guests were invited to display their show cars and trucks alongside those from Truck Covers USA.

“We pulled in members and people who weren’t part of SEMA to educate them,” Forssman said. “It was a terrific opportunity to network with people in our industry.”

Forssman was recently contacted by SEMA Membership Director Gary Vigil. He asked if Forssman would host a meeting with Congressman Scott Peters, who represents Forssman’s district in Washington. It was an offer Forssman couldn’t refuse.

“Gary explained that the congressman was arranging to visit manufacturing facilities in San Diego and asked if I’d be interested in hosting an event,” he said. “Absolutely!”

Forssman worked with SEMA Director of Congressional Affairs Eric Snyder to coordinate the details. The visit included a tour of the manufacturing facility, followed by a sit-down meeting with Peters and his aide, Snyder, Vigil, Forssman and Truck Cover’s Kim Tremelling.

“The congressman was very interested in what’s going on and what the challenges are for the average company in San Diego,” said Forssman, who had a previous connection to Peters through their children’s school. “While it was a great opportunity for us, I wanted it to be more than that. I wanted the opportunity to bring up the industry’s concerns. We talked about labor issues and how tariffs are affecting our industry. Fortunately, we are 100% U.S.A.-built, but we presented the case that tariffs are of concern to everybody. He was very receptive and gave us plenty of face time.”

As a bonus, Peters’ staff posted photos of the event on the congressman’s Facebook page. In reflecting on the meeting, Forssman was quick to express his gratitude.

“Of course, we are very appreciative that the congressman would take time to visit our facility—to have face time with him was fantastic,” he said. “But we can’t thank SEMA enough for creating the opportunity. Without SEMA, it wouldn’t have happened. Bottom line for me, anyone in this industry has to be a SEMA member.”

Seeds of Success

Sabra Johnson grew up around cars. His father and uncles were avid hot rodders and classic-car enthusiasts. They raced around a small dragstrip built on his grandmother’s farm, so it’s not surprising that he followed suit and began modifying and collecting his own vehicles as a hobby. Ten years ago, he turned that hobby into a 14,000-sq.-ft. full-service restoration shop that sits on five-plus acres.

City Classic Cars today employs a staff of 16 full- and part-time employees. Billed as a restomod mecca, the company typically has 60 projects in the works at any given time and does it all in-house—paint and bodywork, engine mods, metal work, upholstery, you name it.

“Everything we do is a restomod, and we are a true one-stop shop,” said Johnson, who’s the lead designer, project manager and brand ambassador. “I have one of the largest hot-rod shops. We’re known for making cars safer, faster and more comfortable.”

Besides wearing multiple business hats, Johnson finds time to pursue other passions. He’s writing a how-to book on turning Tri-Five Chevys into restomods; he funds a mentorship youth program for high-school students; and he volunteers his time and talents to SEMA. He’s a member of SEMA’s Political Action Committee (PAC) and has attended SEMA’s Washington, D.C., Rallies in support of the PAC.

“I (participate) at the maximum financial level, because I want SEMA to continue fighting for the industry I love,” Johnson said. “But whether I choose to donate or not, SEMA still fights for the aftermarket.”

Johnson has also signed up for a new association initiative, the SEMA Senior Class: A Mentoring Program. Comprised of fellow volunteers—industry pros with decades of automotive experience—the free program is designed to help any SEMA member seeking a mentor, advice or insights into the industry. More recently, he tossed his hat into the ring and was elected to his first term on the ARMO select committee.

“SEMA advocates for innovation, for creativity, for small mom-and-pop shops across the country,” he said. “It reaches legislators to make sure that we have a seat at the table and that the industry we love is preserved. I am on the ARMO select committee because SEMA encourages involvement, and I’m honored to be of service and give back.”

For Johnson, part of giving back means extending a welcoming hand to others who may not yet be a core part of what he views as the SEMA community.

“As an African-American leader, I am passionate about greater minority participation, to make sure that they understand that SEMA is a tremendous organization that offers great opportunities and to become a part of what SEMA is,” he said. “My SEMA experience confirms than success starts with SEMA. By any measurable metric, SEMA has increased the brand value and bottom line of my business.

I am so grateful that I choose to serve as a volunteer. SEMA has provided my company with the seeds of success. Now it’s up to me to grow them into a tree.”

The Next Step

Getting involved in SEMA is about making a commitment to help advance the industry—and your company. The opportunities to volunteer are numerous, varied, and open to any SEMA-member company. Joining a SEMA council or network can be a good place to start.

No matter what market niche your business may be in—restoration, off-road, restyling, hot rods, motorsports or wheels and tires—there’s a council or network that would be a good fit. To lend support to SEMA’s legislative advocacy and raise awareness of the specialty-equipment industry on Capitol Hill, there’s also the opportunity to host a congressional visit or, like Sabra Johnson, to mentor others in the industry who look to more experienced players for guidance.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities and how to get involved, contact SEMA Director of Membership Gary Vigil at 909-978-6738 or garyv@sema.org. Also check out the SEMA website, www.sema.org, and click on the link to membership.

SEMA Member News—September 2019

By Ellen McKoy

Tale of Two Companies

How a Manufacturer and a Restomod Builder Maximize Their SEMA Memberships

For shops, builders and manufacturers, SEMA can be much more than just a trade show.

Every year, scores of industry professionals from throughout the specialty-equipment marketplace make their annual pilgrimage to the SEMA Show. And while they are primarily there to take advantage of buy-and-sell opportunities, many fail to dig deeper to find out what else SEMA has to offer. Perhaps it’s because they’re unaware that SEMA is much more than just a trade show. Or they’re not sure how to get their foot in the door and take that first step to getting involved.

“For some folks, attending the Show is about as close as they get to being involved in SEMA,” said Sabra Johnson, owner of City Classic Cars in Houston, Texas, who was recently elected to the ARMO select committee. “I believe success starts with SEMA.”

“A lot of people go to the Show, go home and forget they’re SEMA members,” said Nils Forssman, president of Truck Covers USA in San Diego, California. “That’s a disadvantage to them. The most important thing is to use your membership to the fullest, and you’ll really benefit from getting involved.”

Face Time With a Congressman

Truck Covers USA has been a member of SEMA and the Light Truck Accessory Alliance (now the Truck & Off-Road Alliance) since 2002, and Forssman has experienced the value of membership firsthand. In 2007, LTAA-member manufacturers teamed with SEMA to conduct a wind-tunnel project to assess the effects of tonneau covers on coefficient of drag. Forssman noted that the study’s findings—that tonneaus help to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency—were a boon to manufacturers  like him.

Forssman’s company has joined the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), earning platinum-level status by exerting extra effort to provide participating SDC resellers with the most complete product data available.

“We use a number of services that SEMA offers—the SDC, other data, meetings, networking opportunities—it’s a huge benefit,” he said.

Forssman has also hosted SEMA Town Halls.

“We held the events annually for two or three years,” he said. “Since we know so many members, we thought it would be a great opportunity to bring everyone together, share our great experiences with being SEMA members, and just have fun.”

At one event at the San Diego Automotive Museum, guests were invited to display their show cars and trucks alongside those from Truck Covers USA.

“We pulled in members and people who weren’t part of SEMA to educate them,” Forssman said. “It was a terrific opportunity to network with people in our industry.”

Forssman was recently contacted by SEMA Membership Director Gary Vigil. He asked if Forssman would host a meeting with Congressman Scott Peters, who represents Forssman’s district in Washington. It was an offer Forssman couldn’t refuse.

“Gary explained that the congressman was arranging to visit manufacturing facilities in San Diego and asked if I’d be interested in hosting an event,” he said. “Absolutely!”

Forssman worked with SEMA Director of Congressional Affairs Eric Snyder to coordinate the details. The visit included a tour of the manufacturing facility, followed by a sit-down meeting with Peters and his aide, Snyder, Vigil, Forssman and Truck Cover’s Kim Tremelling.

“The congressman was very interested in what’s going on and what the challenges are for the average company in San Diego,” said Forssman, who had a previous connection to Peters through their children’s school. “While it was a great opportunity for us, I wanted it to be more than that. I wanted the opportunity to bring up the industry’s concerns. We talked about labor issues and how tariffs are affecting our industry. Fortunately, we are 100% U.S.A.-built, but we presented the case that tariffs are of concern to everybody. He was very receptive and gave us plenty of face time.”

As a bonus, Peters’ staff posted photos of the event on the congressman’s Facebook page. In reflecting on the meeting, Forssman was quick to express his gratitude.

“Of course, we are very appreciative that the congressman would take time to visit our facility—to have face time with him was fantastic,” he said. “But we can’t thank SEMA enough for creating the opportunity. Without SEMA, it wouldn’t have happened. Bottom line for me, anyone in this industry has to be a SEMA member.”

Seeds of Success

Sabra Johnson grew up around cars. His father and uncles were avid hot rodders and classic-car enthusiasts. They raced around a small dragstrip built on his grandmother’s farm, so it’s not surprising that he followed suit and began modifying and collecting his own vehicles as a hobby. Ten years ago, he turned that hobby into a 14,000-sq.-ft. full-service restoration shop that sits on five-plus acres.

City Classic Cars today employs a staff of 16 full- and part-time employees. Billed as a restomod mecca, the company typically has 60 projects in the works at any given time and does it all in-house—paint and bodywork, engine mods, metal work, upholstery, you name it.

“Everything we do is a restomod, and we are a true one-stop shop,” said Johnson, who’s the lead designer, project manager and brand ambassador. “I have one of the largest hot-rod shops. We’re known for making cars safer, faster and more comfortable.”

Besides wearing multiple business hats, Johnson finds time to pursue other passions. He’s writing a how-to book on turning Tri-Five Chevys into restomods; he funds a mentorship youth program for high-school students; and he volunteers his time and talents to SEMA. He’s a member of SEMA’s Political Action Committee (PAC) and has attended SEMA’s Washington, D.C., Rallies in support of the PAC.

“I (participate) at the maximum financial level, because I want SEMA to continue fighting for the industry I love,” Johnson said. “But whether I choose to donate or not, SEMA still fights for the aftermarket.”

Johnson has also signed up for a new association initiative, the SEMA Senior Class: A Mentoring Program. Comprised of fellow volunteers—industry pros with decades of automotive experience—the free program is designed to help any SEMA member seeking a mentor, advice or insights into the industry. More recently, he tossed his hat into the ring and was elected to his first term on the ARMO select committee.

“SEMA advocates for innovation, for creativity, for small mom-and-pop shops across the country,” he said. “It reaches legislators to make sure that we have a seat at the table and that the industry we love is preserved. I am on the ARMO select committee because SEMA encourages involvement, and I’m honored to be of service and give back.”

For Johnson, part of giving back means extending a welcoming hand to others who may not yet be a core part of what he views as the SEMA community.

“As an African-American leader, I am passionate about greater minority participation, to make sure that they understand that SEMA is a tremendous organization that offers great opportunities and to become a part of what SEMA is,” he said. “My SEMA experience confirms than success starts with SEMA. By any measurable metric, SEMA has increased the brand value and bottom line of my business.

I am so grateful that I choose to serve as a volunteer. SEMA has provided my company with the seeds of success. Now it’s up to me to grow them into a tree.”

The Next Step

Getting involved in SEMA is about making a commitment to help advance the industry—and your company. The opportunities to volunteer are numerous, varied, and open to any SEMA-member company. Joining a SEMA council or network can be a good place to start.

No matter what market niche your business may be in—restoration, off-road, restyling, hot rods, motorsports or wheels and tires—there’s a council or network that would be a good fit. To lend support to SEMA’s legislative advocacy and raise awareness of the specialty-equipment industry on Capitol Hill, there’s also the opportunity to host a congressional visit or, like Sabra Johnson, to mentor others in the industry who look to more experienced players for guidance.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities and how to get involved, contact SEMA Director of Membership Gary Vigil at 909-978-6738 or garyv@sema.org. Also check out the SEMA website, www.sema.org, and click on the link to membership.

SEMA News—September 2019

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 This is the mid-engine Corvette track testing. It’s also a first look at a near-production prototype without an aero package (no spoiler nor front splitter). The Corvette will undergo a landmark change in philosophy, having always been a front-engine/rear-wheel-drive sports car. The Vette was originally expected to use GM’s upcoming twin-turbocharged 4.2L V8, but there are rumors that it will borrow the 6.2L LT1. Tremec’s TR-9007 seven-speed DCT will be the one and only transmission available. Chevrolet has also trademarked the name “E-Ray,” which hints that an electrified version will be available. It could come in the form of a plug-in hybrid or possibly even an all-electric version in the vein of the Audi R8 e-tron.
Toyota’s Tundra Hybrid? This is a Toyota Tundra prototype undergoing testing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It seems to be a prototype for the first-ever hybrid variant. While following this Tundra for about 3 mi., observers could detect the familiar Hybrid Synergy Drive hum, followed by the engine kicking in at around 25–30 mph. The truck had pretty narrow tires compared to the Tundra spied back in January. According to a source, “Toyota’s fullsize truck will use a version of the company’s 3.5L turbocharged V6 engine in combination with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery system.” The source said that the system is more powerful for the new Tundra and will reportedly produce 450 hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque while getting 30-plus miles per gallon.
’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X Here’s a first look at the ’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X testing in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Nissan will give the fullsize Titan a modest facelift for ’20. However, changes on the outside will be limited to a revised grille, lights and tailgate design. Modern connectivity features are also expected as the company upgrades, providing what looks to be a large infotainment system across its lineup, but the Titan’s looks to be the largest system offered on a North American Nissan model yet. Other interior changes concern revised switches and materials that look to be more upscale. Rumors surround a V6 finally being added to the half-ton model and the XD diesel being dropped for the ’20 or ’21 model year.

SEMA News—September 2019

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 This is the mid-engine Corvette track testing. It’s also a first look at a near-production prototype without an aero package (no spoiler nor front splitter). The Corvette will undergo a landmark change in philosophy, having always been a front-engine/rear-wheel-drive sports car. The Vette was originally expected to use GM’s upcoming twin-turbocharged 4.2L V8, but there are rumors that it will borrow the 6.2L LT1. Tremec’s TR-9007 seven-speed DCT will be the one and only transmission available. Chevrolet has also trademarked the name “E-Ray,” which hints that an electrified version will be available. It could come in the form of a plug-in hybrid or possibly even an all-electric version in the vein of the Audi R8 e-tron.
Toyota’s Tundra Hybrid? This is a Toyota Tundra prototype undergoing testing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It seems to be a prototype for the first-ever hybrid variant. While following this Tundra for about 3 mi., observers could detect the familiar Hybrid Synergy Drive hum, followed by the engine kicking in at around 25–30 mph. The truck had pretty narrow tires compared to the Tundra spied back in January. According to a source, “Toyota’s fullsize truck will use a version of the company’s 3.5L turbocharged V6 engine in combination with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery system.” The source said that the system is more powerful for the new Tundra and will reportedly produce 450 hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque while getting 30-plus miles per gallon.
’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X Here’s a first look at the ’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X testing in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Nissan will give the fullsize Titan a modest facelift for ’20. However, changes on the outside will be limited to a revised grille, lights and tailgate design. Modern connectivity features are also expected as the company upgrades, providing what looks to be a large infotainment system across its lineup, but the Titan’s looks to be the largest system offered on a North American Nissan model yet. Other interior changes concern revised switches and materials that look to be more upscale. Rumors surround a V6 finally being added to the half-ton model and the XD diesel being dropped for the ’20 or ’21 model year.

SEMA News—September 2019

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 This is the mid-engine Corvette track testing. It’s also a first look at a near-production prototype without an aero package (no spoiler nor front splitter). The Corvette will undergo a landmark change in philosophy, having always been a front-engine/rear-wheel-drive sports car. The Vette was originally expected to use GM’s upcoming twin-turbocharged 4.2L V8, but there are rumors that it will borrow the 6.2L LT1. Tremec’s TR-9007 seven-speed DCT will be the one and only transmission available. Chevrolet has also trademarked the name “E-Ray,” which hints that an electrified version will be available. It could come in the form of a plug-in hybrid or possibly even an all-electric version in the vein of the Audi R8 e-tron.
Toyota’s Tundra Hybrid? This is a Toyota Tundra prototype undergoing testing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It seems to be a prototype for the first-ever hybrid variant. While following this Tundra for about 3 mi., observers could detect the familiar Hybrid Synergy Drive hum, followed by the engine kicking in at around 25–30 mph. The truck had pretty narrow tires compared to the Tundra spied back in January. According to a source, “Toyota’s fullsize truck will use a version of the company’s 3.5L turbocharged V6 engine in combination with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery system.” The source said that the system is more powerful for the new Tundra and will reportedly produce 450 hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque while getting 30-plus miles per gallon.
’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X Here’s a first look at the ’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X testing in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Nissan will give the fullsize Titan a modest facelift for ’20. However, changes on the outside will be limited to a revised grille, lights and tailgate design. Modern connectivity features are also expected as the company upgrades, providing what looks to be a large infotainment system across its lineup, but the Titan’s looks to be the largest system offered on a North American Nissan model yet. Other interior changes concern revised switches and materials that look to be more upscale. Rumors surround a V6 finally being added to the half-ton model and the XD diesel being dropped for the ’20 or ’21 model year.

SEMA News—September 2019

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 This is the mid-engine Corvette track testing. It’s also a first look at a near-production prototype without an aero package (no spoiler nor front splitter). The Corvette will undergo a landmark change in philosophy, having always been a front-engine/rear-wheel-drive sports car. The Vette was originally expected to use GM’s upcoming twin-turbocharged 4.2L V8, but there are rumors that it will borrow the 6.2L LT1. Tremec’s TR-9007 seven-speed DCT will be the one and only transmission available. Chevrolet has also trademarked the name “E-Ray,” which hints that an electrified version will be available. It could come in the form of a plug-in hybrid or possibly even an all-electric version in the vein of the Audi R8 e-tron.
Toyota’s Tundra Hybrid? This is a Toyota Tundra prototype undergoing testing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It seems to be a prototype for the first-ever hybrid variant. While following this Tundra for about 3 mi., observers could detect the familiar Hybrid Synergy Drive hum, followed by the engine kicking in at around 25–30 mph. The truck had pretty narrow tires compared to the Tundra spied back in January. According to a source, “Toyota’s fullsize truck will use a version of the company’s 3.5L turbocharged V6 engine in combination with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery system.” The source said that the system is more powerful for the new Tundra and will reportedly produce 450 hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque while getting 30-plus miles per gallon.
’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X Here’s a first look at the ’20 Nissan Titan Pro-4X testing in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Nissan will give the fullsize Titan a modest facelift for ’20. However, changes on the outside will be limited to a revised grille, lights and tailgate design. Modern connectivity features are also expected as the company upgrades, providing what looks to be a large infotainment system across its lineup, but the Titan’s looks to be the largest system offered on a North American Nissan model yet. Other interior changes concern revised switches and materials that look to be more upscale. Rumors surround a V6 finally being added to the half-ton model and the XD diesel being dropped for the ’20 or ’21 model year.

SEMA News—September 2019

REQUIRED READING

By Juan Torres

SEMA Show exhibitors who manufacture parts for the truck and off-road markets often use pickups to showcase their latest product lineups. Those elaborate builds are easy to spot displayed in and around the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the modifications and additions made to them are clear indications of how and why the truck market segment was responsible for 27% of the nearly $45 billion spent on specialty-equipment products last year. Below are some of the media outlets that kept truck enthusiasts informed about the builds and parts unveiled at the 2018 SEMA Show.