By SEMA Editors

The Slingshot roadster will delight attendees at its “Polaris Slingshot—The Ultimate Joyride” drift course at the Westgate Lot, Tuesday, October 30, and Thursday, November 1, from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., and Friday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

In its SEMA Show debut, the three-wheeled Slingshot roadster will delight attendees at its “Polaris Slingshot—The Ultimate Joyride” drift course at the Westgate Lot, Tuesday, October 30, and Thursday, November 1, from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., and Friday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The Polaris Slingshot roadster has a weight-to-power ratio of 1,750 lbs. and 173 hp.

Although it’s federally classified as a motorcycle, 44 U.S. states do not require a motorcycle endorsement, and drivers can operate the Slingshot with a standard driver’s license. The five-speed manual transmission and side-by-side seating configuration are designed for both city cruising and hitting twisty, windy backroads. Additionally, Slingshot offers a customization platform with opportunities to paint and add wraps, graphics, lighting and interior design.

A wide offering of accessories both from Slingshot and aftermarket suppliers allow owners to personalize their rides. Slingshot’s four models range in pricing from $19,999–$29,499. Visit slingshot.polaris.com to learn more.

By SEMA Editors

Joe Mittelman

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has announced the passing of founding member Joe Mittelman.

Past CEO of The Mittelman Group for more than 50 years, and former chairman of the Auto Parts & Accessories Association, Mittelman co-founded the organization now recognized as AACF, and has been actively involved in board and committee leadership since its inception.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Mittelman family, and all whose lives he touched,” said AACF Executive Director Joel Ayres. “Joe was a wonderful, kind and generous man who loved the aftermarket because he loved the people that make up the industry. He was the sort of man that treated everyone with the greatest respect. He was strong, smart, sincere and funny, and he’ll be dearly missed.”

“Joe dedicated his life to helping others through service, including his service to AACF,” said Lynn Parker, AACF board president. “Because of Joe’s dedication and his continued efforts, thousands of lives have been positively impacted. Joe was much more than our colleague—he was our dear friend. He will be deeply missed and will always be remembered.”

Donations in memorial tribute to Joe Mittelman are currently being accepted, with more than $25,000 pledged toward a $100,000 goal. The Joe Mittelman Celebration of Life is scheduled for September 23. Contact Joel Ayres at 916-628-0271 to contribute, or email joel@aftermarketfoundation.org for more information.

By SEMA Editors

Joe Mittelman

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has announced the passing of founding member Joe Mittelman.

Past CEO of The Mittelman Group for more than 50 years, and former chairman of the Auto Parts & Accessories Association, Mittelman co-founded the organization now recognized as AACF, and has been actively involved in board and committee leadership since its inception.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Mittelman family, and all whose lives he touched,” said AACF Executive Director Joel Ayres. “Joe was a wonderful, kind and generous man who loved the aftermarket because he loved the people that make up the industry. He was the sort of man that treated everyone with the greatest respect. He was strong, smart, sincere and funny, and he’ll be dearly missed.”

“Joe dedicated his life to helping others through service, including his service to AACF,” said Lynn Parker, AACF board president. “Because of Joe’s dedication and his continued efforts, thousands of lives have been positively impacted. Joe was much more than our colleague—he was our dear friend. He will be deeply missed and will always be remembered.”

Donations in memorial tribute to Joe Mittelman are currently being accepted, with more than $25,000 pledged toward a $100,000 goal. The Joe Mittelman Celebration of Life is scheduled for September 23. Contact Joel Ayres at 916-628-0271 to contribute, or email joel@aftermarketfoundation.org for more information.

By Zane Clark

Several 2018 SEMA Show Education sessions will focus on vehicle technology and its impact on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

It is no secret how rapidly the automotive landscape is changing. Advanced vehicle technologies, driver-assist systems and alternate transportation have certainly shifted the paradigm and created disruptions in the service, repair and customization fields. Despite such disruptions, however, vehicle personalization remains a driving factor that influences the automotive marketplace and creates business opportunities.

Below are five programs taking place at the 2018 SEMA Show that will help your business navigate and capitalize on the evolving landscape:  

Which is Worth More: Your Expertise or Your Time?

Learn to apply the principles of product management to increase your profitability on labor billing for installations related to aftermarket automotive electronics, such as audio, safety (ADAS) and convenience systems.

Metal Fabrication in Automotive Interiors—Tips From the Pros

Reliability and serviceability are the foundation of any great car audio system or custom interior build that utilizes aftermarket electronics. In this seminar, learn uses of materials, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as plastic composites.

Custom Radar/Laser Detector Installation—A Highly Profitable Category

This informative and eye-opening seminar provides detailed insight into a profitable and opportune category—custom (hidden) radar/laser detection systems. With the high cost of insurance premiums on high-end vehicles and the safety concern of speeding in general, high-end vehicle owners can’t afford to have even one speeding ticket.

New Technologies, New Opportunities: Vehicle Technology Roundtable

Advanced vehicle technologies are changing how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced, shared and owned. We are witnessing one of the most fundamental shifts in the history of the automotive industry.

The Next Two Years: Navigating the Technology Landscape, Powered by PRO 

In today’s ever-evolving automotive environment, keeping up with technology is more important—and challenging—than ever. What knowledge and tools do the industry need to adapt? Join an expert panel as they provide insights into new technologies and deliver practical resources that can immediately benefit your shop.  

Sign Up. Show Up. Preview all sessions and register.

Contact SEMA’s Senior Director of Education Zane Clark for additional information.

By Zane Clark

Several 2018 SEMA Show Education sessions will focus on vehicle technology and its impact on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

It is no secret how rapidly the automotive landscape is changing. Advanced vehicle technologies, driver-assist systems and alternate transportation have certainly shifted the paradigm and created disruptions in the service, repair and customization fields. Despite such disruptions, however, vehicle personalization remains a driving factor that influences the automotive marketplace and creates business opportunities.

Below are five programs taking place at the 2018 SEMA Show that will help your business navigate and capitalize on the evolving landscape:  

Which is Worth More: Your Expertise or Your Time?

Learn to apply the principles of product management to increase your profitability on labor billing for installations related to aftermarket automotive electronics, such as audio, safety (ADAS) and convenience systems.

Metal Fabrication in Automotive Interiors—Tips From the Pros

Reliability and serviceability are the foundation of any great car audio system or custom interior build that utilizes aftermarket electronics. In this seminar, learn uses of materials, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as plastic composites.

Custom Radar/Laser Detector Installation—A Highly Profitable Category

This informative and eye-opening seminar provides detailed insight into a profitable and opportune category—custom (hidden) radar/laser detection systems. With the high cost of insurance premiums on high-end vehicles and the safety concern of speeding in general, high-end vehicle owners can’t afford to have even one speeding ticket.

New Technologies, New Opportunities: Vehicle Technology Roundtable

Advanced vehicle technologies are changing how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced, shared and owned. We are witnessing one of the most fundamental shifts in the history of the automotive industry.

The Next Two Years: Navigating the Technology Landscape, Powered by PRO 

In today’s ever-evolving automotive environment, keeping up with technology is more important—and challenging—than ever. What knowledge and tools do the industry need to adapt? Join an expert panel as they provide insights into new technologies and deliver practical resources that can immediately benefit your shop.  

Sign Up. Show Up. Preview all sessions and register.

Contact SEMA’s Senior Director of Education Zane Clark for additional information.

By Zane Clark

Several 2018 SEMA Show Education sessions will focus on vehicle technology and its impact on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

It is no secret how rapidly the automotive landscape is changing. Advanced vehicle technologies, driver-assist systems and alternate transportation have certainly shifted the paradigm and created disruptions in the service, repair and customization fields. Despite such disruptions, however, vehicle personalization remains a driving factor that influences the automotive marketplace and creates business opportunities.

Below are five programs taking place at the 2018 SEMA Show that will help your business navigate and capitalize on the evolving landscape:  

Which is Worth More: Your Expertise or Your Time?

Learn to apply the principles of product management to increase your profitability on labor billing for installations related to aftermarket automotive electronics, such as audio, safety (ADAS) and convenience systems.

Metal Fabrication in Automotive Interiors—Tips From the Pros

Reliability and serviceability are the foundation of any great car audio system or custom interior build that utilizes aftermarket electronics. In this seminar, learn uses of materials, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as plastic composites.

Custom Radar/Laser Detector Installation—A Highly Profitable Category

This informative and eye-opening seminar provides detailed insight into a profitable and opportune category—custom (hidden) radar/laser detection systems. With the high cost of insurance premiums on high-end vehicles and the safety concern of speeding in general, high-end vehicle owners can’t afford to have even one speeding ticket.

New Technologies, New Opportunities: Vehicle Technology Roundtable

Advanced vehicle technologies are changing how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced, shared and owned. We are witnessing one of the most fundamental shifts in the history of the automotive industry.

The Next Two Years: Navigating the Technology Landscape, Powered by PRO 

In today’s ever-evolving automotive environment, keeping up with technology is more important—and challenging—than ever. What knowledge and tools do the industry need to adapt? Join an expert panel as they provide insights into new technologies and deliver practical resources that can immediately benefit your shop.  

Sign Up. Show Up. Preview all sessions and register.

Contact SEMA’s Senior Director of Education Zane Clark for additional information.

By Rachel Tatum

Find out what’s new and different for 2018 by participating in the SEMA Show Facebook Live Chat every Thursday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).

Log on to the SEMA Show Facebook Page, Thursday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT), for a live broadcast with SEMA Trade Show Director Tom Gattuso, who will discuss Show updates, breaking news and provide one-on-one customer service as he answers your most pressing questions.

Find out what’s new and different for 2018, get insider tips and learn how to plan for a successful Show experience by participating in the SEMA Show Facebook Live Chat every Thursday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).

Set your alarms and mark your calendars—we’ll see you soon! 

By Rachel Tatum

Find out what’s new and different for 2018 by participating in the SEMA Show Facebook Live Chat every Thursday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).

Log on to the SEMA Show Facebook Page, Thursday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT), for a live broadcast with SEMA Trade Show Director Tom Gattuso, who will discuss Show updates, breaking news and provide one-on-one customer service as he answers your most pressing questions.

Find out what’s new and different for 2018, get insider tips and learn how to plan for a successful Show experience by participating in the SEMA Show Facebook Live Chat every Thursday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).

Set your alarms and mark your calendars—we’ll see you soon! 

By Della Domingo

Blues-inspired rock-pop artist ZZ Ward will entertain Showgoers throughout the week of the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

SEMA Show attendees will be treated to live music by blues-inspired rock-pop artist ZZ Ward. Performing at numerous SEMA Show activities, including the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet and SEMA Ignited (the official after-party that is open to the public), the Los Angeles-based vocal powerhouse will entertain Showgoers throughout the week of the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Ward made headlines earlier this year when NBC kicked off the second half of its NASCAR season coverage with her singing Tom Petty’s “Runnin’ Down a Dream.”

The schedule kicks off Monday, October 29, at the Exhibitor Appreciation Reception, featuring the Media Exclusive Vehicle Reveal. The fedora-rocking guitarist will continue during the week in SEMA Central, where industry icons, celebrities and influencers are interviewed on stage. Before her final SEMA appearance at SEMA Ignited, Ward will perform at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, Thursday, November 1.

Considered by many to be the industry’s premier awards ceremony where the Person of the Year is announced, the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet is open to all SEMA Showgoers, and includes dinner.

Exhibitors qualify to obtain a limited number of free tickets to the banquet. All Showgoers are also able to purchase banquet tickets online. 

The 2018 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas. The annual trade show brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world.

By Della Domingo

Blues-inspired rock-pop artist ZZ Ward will entertain Showgoers throughout the week of the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

SEMA Show attendees will be treated to live music by blues-inspired rock-pop artist ZZ Ward. Performing at numerous SEMA Show activities, including the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet and SEMA Ignited (the official after-party that is open to the public), the Los Angeles-based vocal powerhouse will entertain Showgoers throughout the week of the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Ward made headlines earlier this year when NBC kicked off the second half of its NASCAR season coverage with her singing Tom Petty’s “Runnin’ Down a Dream.”

The schedule kicks off Monday, October 29, at the Exhibitor Appreciation Reception, featuring the Media Exclusive Vehicle Reveal. The fedora-rocking guitarist will continue during the week in SEMA Central, where industry icons, celebrities and influencers are interviewed on stage. Before her final SEMA appearance at SEMA Ignited, Ward will perform at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, Thursday, November 1.

Considered by many to be the industry’s premier awards ceremony where the Person of the Year is announced, the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet is open to all SEMA Showgoers, and includes dinner.

Exhibitors qualify to obtain a limited number of free tickets to the banquet. All Showgoers are also able to purchase banquet tickets online. 

The 2018 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas. The annual trade show brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world.