By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Adventure Lifestyle Group as the council's newest member company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with Chris Gramelspacher, Adventure Lifestyle Group's director of strategic initiatives, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of Adventure Lifestyle Group. How did the company start?  

Chris Gramelspacher: Adventure Lifestyle began in 2021 after Kevin and David Walker bought their first powersports dealership, Grapevine Powersports, in Grapevine, Texas. This sparked the idea of creating a company that encapsulated the 12 truck accessory stores they already owned and operated and pairing it with powersports and marine dealerships to create a group of businesses that truly live up to the "Adventure Lifestyle" name. Kevin and David's grassroots started with their first Custom Trucks Unlimited store in Auburn, Alabama, in 2006. 

Currently, Adventure Lifestyle operates 20 powersports dealerships, 12 truck accessory stores and two marine dealerships across 11 states. The vision is still growing as we continue to push into new horizons with Adventure Lifestyle. The truck accessory stores we own and operate are widely known by their long-standing history which are Custom Trucks Unlimited, Camper City, Auto Trim Design--Midwest and Cole Brothers Auto Trim. 

Our breakthrough moment came in 2021 when we realized that truck accessories customers were also powersports customers. Since then, Adventure Lifestyle was created, and we've acquired 20 powersports dealerships, becoming one of the largest and fastest-growing powersports dealership groups. That is an unprecedented growth curve in that industry and required us to rethink the overall structure and processes and really come together and perform as a group and not just a bunch of independent dealerships. 

SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about? 

CG: The most interesting project on my plate currently is the bringing together of what has been two separate sides of our business. We are in the beginning phases of creating truck accessory stores inside some of our current powersports locations. This has very exciting and promising possibilities as nearly every powersports customer is also a truck or SUV owner. To be able to purchase your truck accessories at the same location as you purchase and service your powersports vehicle will be something truly unique in the industry. 

Our most exciting current project is our Adventure Advantage Program. The Adventure Advantage is a specialty parts and accessory program that we offer to every Adventure Lifestyle Powersports customer. It grants them exclusive access and pricing to select parts and accessories for 24 months after purchase. It was rolled out in early 2024 and we have seen very positive results, and our Adventure Lifestyle customers love it. 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket? 

CG: If the passion and drive live inside you, do not let anything hold you back. Good, old-fashioned hard work and perseverance will make you successful in your pursuit of a career in this field. Remember, it is a relativity small community and the personal connections you make now may be your future mentors, colleagues, partners or employees in the future. 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) is hosting an online General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. PT/3:00 p.m. EDT.

Open to automotive aftermarket engineers, programmers, and product developers employed by a SEMA member company, the meeting will provide updates on ETTN’s current priorities for members, which include education and volunteer opportunities, as well as the 2025 Career Fair. Attendees will connect with the Select Committee, discover ways to get more involved, and learn about this year’s ETTN Lunch and Learn--a part of the 2024 SEMA Show Education program.

ETTN’s mission is to identify and communicate emerging vehicle trends and technology relevant to aftermarket professionals and provide the resources and solutions to ensure their continued success. All current and prospective members are encouraged to attend the meeting, as it's a great way to tap into valuable resources.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is offering a Virtual Wine Tasting event on Thursday, September 26, at 4:00 p.m. PDT to help women in the automotive aftermarket industry grow their professional network. Register here!

Guided by Cora Jokinen (SBN select committee member and president of Torq-Masters Industries), the wine tasting will provide an opportunity for members to connect with those who will not be at the 2024 SEMA Show, as well as give members who are attending the Show a chance to grow their network. Attendees will learn about wine etiquette techniques, the winemaking process, the difference between noble versus non-noble, wine regions, affordable wines, information about a variety of wines and more.

Prospective SBN members are invited to attend the event, as it is a great way to introduce yourself, meet other women in the industry and learn about the network's resources.

A list of wines to be purchased will be provided prior to the event.

Register here!

By Cris Gonzalez and SEMA News Editors

Automotive industry legend Lee Iacocca once said, "The only way to make money as a car company is to come up with something so different that people can't look at what you're doing and say 'me too'… You've got to be different. You've got to be adaptive." 

Certainly, not everyone attending the SEMA is designing the next industry-shifting car, but industry experts would agree that specialty equipment professionals and businesses need to stay adaptive and knowledgeable about emerging trends, new technology-based skills, and the latest ways to make the work culture thrive. This November 5-8, SEMA Education at the 2024 SEMA Show aims to assist individuals from all sectors of the automotive industry in achieving this goal. [View the 2024 Education lineup here].

Management Essentials for Leaders, Presented by Dale Carnegie

Tuesday, November 5
9:00 a.m. PT - 3:00 p.m. PT
+ Add to SEMA Show Planner
Register here.

Wednesday, November 6
9:00 a.m. PT - 3:00 p.m. PT
+ Add to SEMA Show Planner
Register here.

Bright minds from Dale Carnegie tailor-made a program exclusively for SEMA Show attendees with one six-hour class encompassing three sessions. The skill-building class blends three interactive workshops with a range of presentations from multiple industry decision-makers to hone a professional's abilities to lead with assurance, empower their teams and achieve tangible results.  

Participants will also develop the confidence, communication prowess and strategic mindset necessary to excel in leadership roles within the automotive sector. Whether aiming to lead a dealership, manage a manufacturing plant, or spearhead marketing initiatives, this program is designed to equip individuals with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in the fast-paced world of automotive leadership.

There is a fee to attend this event. Click here to register.

SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium: Connecting Women, Empowering Futures, Powered by SEMA Business Network (SBN)

Wednesday, November 6
11:00 a.m. PT - 4:00 p.m. PT
+ Add to Show Planner
Register here.

Tailored exclusively for women in the industry is the SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium: Connecting Women, Empowering Futures, Powered by SBN, a dynamic gathering uniting trailblazing women from all corners of the automotive industry. This empowering event serves as a platform for women leaders to convene, collaborate and catalyze change in their respective fields and communities. Participants will engage in thought-provoking keynotes, interactive skill-building workshops, fireside chats, the "Circle of Women" networking luncheon and the popular C-suite Insights panel discussion covering a wide range of topics in leadership development. This year, there will be a celebration of the exceptional achievements and contributions of women in the automotive sector, with the first annual "Shining the Spotlight on Women." This prestigious event recognizes the trailblazing women who have made significant strides in various facets of the automotive industry, from engineering and design to leadership and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, an entrepreneur, or a changemaker, the SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium provides invaluable resources and support to help you thrive professionally and personally with actionable learning that you will leverage all year long.

There is a fee to attend this event. Take advantage of early bird pricing and register by Friday, September 27, for only $149. After, the price increases to $199. Click here to register.

For more details on the 2024 SEMA Show Education schedule for these and other seminars, visit semashow.com/education. There, you'll also be able to customize, plan and print out your own itinerary via the My Show Planner feature. The planner helps you create an efficient SEMA Show experience tailored to your specific business goals while getting the most out of this year's event. 

By SEMA News Editors

Hotel reservations are open online here for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, in Las Vegas, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. 

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas, as well as numerous other benefits for Showgoers.

For those who can drive to the SEMA Show, several properties available through onPeak offer free parking during the Show.

HOTEL BOOKING ALERT

Please be vigilant if approached by a travel or hotel booking company/service other than onPeak that implies or claims to be an official housing provider of the SEMA Show. We have been made aware of other housing companies or travel agencies that may be aggressively pursuing exhibitors, attendees or their companies to book guest rooms through their company at supposedly significant discounts, but note they are not affiliated with SEMA. onPeak and SEMA offer the best possible rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Reservations made through an agency other than onPeak will be at your own risk. For more information, visit here. To notify SEMA Show Management of rogue travel agencies or for questions, contact (909)396-0289.

Securing housing is just one of the first steps on the road to the 2024 SEMA Show. Registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open online here for qualified attendees. SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all, so registration fees are only $60 through Friday, September 27. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Airline discounts exclusive to SEMA Showgoers are also available through Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. More details here.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show Online Media Center is now available for exhibiting companies to submit SEMA Show-related press releases to be included on the SEMA Show website. 

Exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees. 

With thousands of media members in attendance, exhibiting companies will benefit by spotlighting their newest and most innovative products to direct media to their booths. The Online Media Center was designed specifically for journalists to find Show-related news and announcements. 

Below are several announcements you will find in the Online Media Center: 

• Do You Ever Drive With the Tailgate Down? Tailgate Mirror SEMA Show Booth 61022
• Fuel2Electric Returns to SEMA 2024 with Double the Impact, Showcasing Two Unique Conversion Builds
• Announcing Data Here-to-There Partner Program
• Anzo USA to Showcase Innovative Automotive Lighting Solutions at 2024 SEMA Show
• Hamaton Return to Las Vegas for SEMA 2024

Press release tips: 

• Use a strong headline that catches the reader's attention.
• Keep the press release brief. Readers want to know what the press release is about right from the beginning. 
• Include a photo if possible. Many editors use only releases that have photos. Submit photos in a high-resolution (300 dpi) image format. 
• Always include your booth number and contact information. 

To learn more about press conferences, the online media center, or other PR resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors, contact pr@sema.org. 

By Ellen McKoy

Aware of the need to provide aftermarket manufacturers with resources to fast-track the design and development of new products, the Auto Club of Southern California joined forces with SEMA under a 10-year lease agreement to establish the SEMA Garage. The facility opened in Diamond Bar in 2003--the first-ever industry test lab to offer an affordable way to achieve emissions certification through a CARB Executive Order (EO).

To help facilitate the certification process, SEMA initially created the "Black Book," a printed guidebook now known today as "The SEMA Emissions Compliance Handbook" and available in a digital format. Other services were later added, including OEM-hosted measuring sessions and an early blueprint version of Tech Transfer.

Flash forward to 2013. The Garage underwent a mega makeover, investing in OEM-quality tools and equipment. With the addition of the state-of-the-art Garage in Detroit in 2022, the two facilities offer an extensive suite of services for members across the nation.

For companies like Magnuson Superchargers, which produces kits for aftermarket and OEM applications, the Garages are a valued resource. "Jerry Magnuson always had EOs, from the very beginning," noted CEO Kim Pendergast. "It wasn't just because the company is based in California and has to comply with CARB. He believed in it and knew that someday everybody would have to do it and we'd already have the skill set.

"So even though we have the internal skill to do (emissions testing), we choose to outsource to the Detroit Garage and through Diamond Bar. Having that third-party support is invaluable."

Cultivating Value

Developing an emissions-compliant supercharger system involves extensive R&D and testing. Which is where third-party support becomes paramount.

Measuring sessions, for instance, afford Magnuson the chance to gain timely access to new-model vehicles they might otherwise have to purchase, said Pendergast. Through Tech Transfer, Magnuson utilizes access to OEM CAD data and 3D scans to help design and develop new products.

The dual SEMA Garage Emissions Compliance Centers play a central role by providing the required lab testing and compliance verification. Through these processes, Magnuson has secured at least a dozen CARB EOs, plus three emission certifications to ensure their products are EPA compliant.  

From Pendergast's perspective, engagement with the Garages has not only helped Magnuson bring products from concept to reality. Importantly, the interactions provide touchpoints that strengthen the relationship. 

"Having third-party support means that everything is on the continuum. If somebody were to leave, it wouldn't matter, because the Garage has our data, knows everything we've done, and keeps track of new things happening in the industry, and as they evolve their skills and knowledge, we benefit from that. 

"There's Tech Transfer, the EOs and other valuable services they provide, but because of the intensity of the interaction, it creates another level of value. As you develop touchpoints at SEMA, they learn more about your company and you become more aware of the direction of the industry. And those touchpoints help your company do a better job."  

Given SEMA's stature, Pendergast believes the organization is well positioned to help members' businesses succeed, be it through strategic relationships with OEMs, addressing ADAS technology challenges or other industry-centric issues.

"The value [goes beyond] EOs and Tech Transfer. The value is that SEMA is working with the OEMs (on) Tech Transfer in a way that works for everyone; [it] isn't just that SEMA provides ADAS services. The value lies in the investment in our future, to get ahead of the regulations and not come in from behind.

"Everybody uses SEMA differently because we all have different needs," continued Pendergast, "but there are so many facets that [people] might not realize how many things are available. They think oh, it's a trade show. Yes, that's one of the things and it's what allows SEMA to do many other things to help members in areas where SEMA is uniquely positioned to provide a service and invest in the industry.

"The point is there are things that SEMA can do more efficiently and effectively because of who SEMA is and because of the members. Who else besides SEMA could go to the EPA and create a trusted emissions certification process? There's something about it being SEMA that allows these things to happen and that probably wouldn't happen any other way."

By SEMA News Editors

The band and activation schedule for the second annual SEMA Fest event, Friday, November 8, is now live (see the graphic below and visit SEMAFest.com for tickets and the complete details).

Tickets for the 2024 SEMA Fest on the SEMA Show campus in Las Vegas are available at SEMAFest.com. If you've been waiting to purchase your tickets to the amazing event, now is the time to act. You won't want to miss Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey all performing live on the SEMA Show campus.

Whether going for live music, custom rides, thrilling motorsports action or an unforgettable atmosphere, SEMA Fest is the event of the year for automotive enthusiasts and music fans. Buy your tickets now and save at SEMAFest.com.

Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not get you into the SEMA Fest concerts; a SEMA Fest concert ticket must be purchased.

Guests are encouraged to secure their hotel stay for SEMA Fest as soon as possible through OnPeak, SEMA Fest's only official housing provider. View available hotels here and select your preferred stay dates! 

Keep an eye on SEMA News for headliner spotlights and more details--including motorsports activations!--on this one-of-a-kind event. For more details and tickets, visit SEMAFest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The automotive aftermarket will converge in Las Vegas for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8. As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, SEMA Show organizers have compiled a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget (more details at the bottom of the article).

One of the deadlines surrounds the popular New Products Showcase featuring the latest products, innovations, technology, displays and services from exhibitors. Companies can now maximize their impact on the Show floor by entering their products, packaging and merchandising displays into the New Product Showcase, the top destination for media members, buyers, decision-makers and automotive professionals to source the hottest products from the Show floor in one convenient location.

Submissions for the 2024 SEMA Show New Product Showcase are open online at SEMAshow.com/newproducts. Show organizers recommend reading the complete rules and regulations online here. All products are considered and eligible for a New Products Showcase Award (formerly Global Media Awards), providing even more brand exposure and recognition.

The first SEMA Show New Product Showcase entry is always free of charge, with each additional product entry costing $95 through Friday, October 4. After that deadline, the price will be $175 per entry.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, some of which are also detailed in this article below. 

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form. But note, placing Freeman orders before the Tuesday, October 1 discount deadline, which offers discounted prices off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

• Friday, September 27: Exhibitor Registration Due for domestic exhibitors (to receive badges in the mail).
• Tuesday, October 1: Freight – Freeman Warehouse – First day to accept advance freight.
• Tuesday, October 1: Internet/Telephone Order (advance rate) – Cox Business.
• Thursday, October 3: Additional Freeman deadlines, including AV and computers; carpet and booth cleaning; credit card authorization; electrical order; exhibit accessories and furnishings; first-time exhibitor booth package; graphics including fabric, foamcore and PVC; hanging sign/banner labor; exhibit installation and dismantle labor; payment authorization form; rental exhibit order (advance rate); rigging equipment labor order; special signs and graphics (advance rate); third party payment authorization; and air/water/drain order utilities (advance rate).
• Friday, October 4: New Products Showcase entry advance rate deadline. (The first product is always free; save $80 on each additional entry by submitting before this deadline).
• Friday, October 4: Products for Project-Vehicle Builders. Add your brand's products to the listing and learn more here.
• Sunday, October 13: Exhibitor booth insurance (if purchased from Risk-Strategies/Buttine)
• Sunday, October 13: Sponsorship artwork graphics - Freeman

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists.

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals at the 2024 SEMA Show, it's important to stay up-to-date on upcoming deadlines. Click here for a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget. In addition, exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees. 

By SEMA News Editors

Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Jr. Among Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2024 Inductees

Officials have announced the Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees will be honored during the induction and awards ceremony on Thursday, September 19, in Detroit. Induction into the Automotive Hall of Fame is reserved for noteworthy individuals whose efforts helped shape the automotive and mobility marketplace. 

The Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees are Bill Ford, Dr. Betsy Ancker-Johnson, John James Sr., Wendell Scott, Vivek Sehgal and Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Vic Edelbrock Jr. of Edelbrock Performance.

"Once again, this year's class of inductees highlights the breadth of contributions individuals have had on this industry and all that it influences," said Sarah Cook, president of the Automotive Hall of Fame. "This diverse group of trailblazing innovators and leaders have played a critical role in shaping our industry, and we couldn't be more pleased to recognize their achievements and welcome them into the Hall of Fame."

For inductee biographies, see below. For more information, visit automotivehalloffame.org.

• Bill Ford: Bill Ford has played a pivotal role in advancing the industry while positioning an iconic, global, 120-year-old family company for the future. Since becoming executive chair 25 years ago, he has led Ford Motor Company through periods of change and uncertainty with a values-driven approach that demonstrates corporate responsibility and success can go hand in hand. He was an early and influential advocate for sustainability and environmental responsibility, a driving force behind mobility innovation, and continues to be a champion for the revitalization of the Motor City.
• Dr. Betsy Ancker-Johnson: Johnson broke barriers as the first woman VP in the automotive industry, hired in 1979 at General Motors. She oversaw two of the industry's most controversial areas at the time--environmental compliance and vehicle safety. Johnson was an acclaimed plasma physicist known for her research, numerous patents and impact on automotive environmental and safety issues.
• Vic Edelbrock Sr. and Vic Edelbrock Jr.: Vic Edelbrock Sr.'s pioneering spirit and innovative engineering defined the aftermarket sector, introducing high-performance components that revolutionized vehicle performance. Vic Edelbrock Jr.'s seamless continuation of this legacy, coupled with his commitment to quality, innovation and global expansion, solidified the Edelbrock name as an enduring symbol of excellence, earning them both a place among the industry's most esteemed leaders.
• John A. James: James opened the commercial trucking industry to minorities who had previously been excluded. After court battles and relentless advocacy, James was the first African American given the ability to transport goods within Michigan and across state lines. Today, The James Group is an award-winning logistics and automotive services leader.
• Wendell Scott: As the first African American team owner and driver to win in the Grand National Series of NASCAR (now Cup Series) race, Scott's triumph shattered racial barriers and opened doors for greater diversity in racing. His legacy of perseverance, innovative mechanical skills and pioneering spirit serves as an inspiration to future generations and underscores his significant role in shaping the narrative of inclusion and progress within the automotive world.
• Vivek Sehgal: Vivek Chaand Sehgal and his mother founded Motherson company in 1975; first in trading and graduating into manufacturing. Motherson focused on earning the trust of all stakeholders, learning operational excellence and sustainable practices, and creating value for all. By earning trust with its customers as a committed solutions provider, Motherson evolved from one country, one facility, one product to a global, diversified Tier 1 supplier. Today, with over 200,000 people, it supports the world's major OEMs via 350 facilities across 42 countries with thousands of parts across business verticals, while maintaining its core principles

Quad Lock Unites F1 Star Oscar Piastri and MotoGP Rookie Pedro Acosta in Karting Showdown

Quad Lock, a smartphone and action camera mounting solutions provider, recently hosted a karting showdown between Formula 1 star Oscar Piastri and MotoGP rookie Pedro Acosta.

Held at the Brignoles Karting circuit in France, the event saw Piastri mentor Acosta, who had never driven a kart before, as he tried to set a competitive lap time in a six-speed 125cc KZ2 shifter kart. The company used a variety of Quad Lock mounting solutions to document on-track action.

Click here to watch the full video on YouTube.

SKF Group Appoints Olaf Henning as General Manager, Head of Global Automotive Aftermarket

SKF Group, based in Gothenburg, Sweden, has appointed Olaf Henning as general manager and head of global automotive aftermarket, effective mid-November. Henning succeeds Philipp Herlein, who has been named managing director of the global SKF lubrication and MPT division.

Henning previously served as the executive vice president of MAHLE Group, where he was responsible for the strategic and operational management of the company's aftermarket business unit and global logistics. He also previously held positions at Michelin and Bosch.

For more information, visit skf.com.

ORACLE Lighting Acquires Trigger Control Systems

ORACLE Lighting, the New Orleans-based provider of automotive lighting solutions, has acquired Trigger Control Systems, a manufacturer of wireless control systems for vehicle lighting and accessories and 12V-power distribution systems.

The acquisition empowers ORACLE Lighting to explore new product combinations and enhancements by integrating Trigger Controllers technology and expertise, and expand its market presence, the company said in a statement announcing the acquisition.

Trigger’s product range of auxiliary controllers, along with vehicle-specific mounting brackets and adapters, is compatible with a variety of popular vehicles, including Jeeps, trucks and SUVs, as well as marine and RV applications.

For more information, visit oraclelights.com.