Thu, 01/25/2024 - 17:28

By SEMA News Editors

One-of-a-Kind Matchbox JT Set for Barrett-Jackson Auction

One-of-a-Kind Matchbox JT Set for Barrett-Jackson Auction

Enthusiasts can secure their very own Mattel Matchbox toy life-size replica during this weekend's Barrett-Jackson show in Scottsdale, Arizona, on Saturday, January 27. The custom Jeep Gladiator, which was on display at the SEMA Show, was created by aftermarket accessories manufacturer and online destination RealTruck Inc. in partnership with Mattel and Matchbox.

Donated by RealTruck, 100% of the hammer price of the build will go directly to benefit the non-profit organization, Building Homes for Heroes, devoted to supporting wounded veterans and first responders.

"The Matchbox RealTruck Custom JT Gladiator is one of our most standout collaborations and anticipated builds, and we are proud to support our friends at Building Homes for Heroes with its sale benefiting the nation's hard-working citizens and service members," said RealTruck Inc. Vice President of Marketing Lee Riser. "We pride ourselves on giving back to the community by contributing to organizations with shared values."

Built by Doetsch Off-Road in Chandler, Arizona, the striking black '23 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon build is a life-size replica of the Mattel Matchbox 99-cent toy car, transitioning from a 1:64 scale to 1:1. The premier overland-inspired 4x4 SUV build is powered by a 3.6-liter V8 engine mated to an automatic transmission, and features premium parts and accessories from RealTruck, including a RealTruck Rugged Ridge Roof Top Tent mounted to the RealTruck® GoRack, a RealTruck N-Fab TrailSlider Step System, RealTruck Rugged Ridge Jeep Flush Mount Tail Lights and more.

The auction will take place Saturday, January 27, 3:30 p.m. PST/4:30 p.m. MST at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Visit RealTruck.com to learn more about the build, and register to bid for the auction at Barrett-Jackson.com.

Tread Lightly! Announces New Official Partners 

Tread Lightly!, a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor recreation through stewardship and educational programs, announced Back Road Van Adventures (BRVA) and Roof Top Overland as its newest official partners. 

BRVA is an off-road adventure guide company offering guided trips, as well as educational clinics that include, off-road driving, GPS routing and planning, first aid, sustainability and off-road recovery.  

Roof Top Overland is a retailer specializing in truck bed racks, roof racks, roof top tents, lighting and other overlanding gear. Along with its partnership, Roof Top Overland will provide exclusive discounts of up to $100 to select Tread Lightly! individual members. 

For more information, visit treadlightly.org

New Details Announced for the Carlisle Ford Nationals Car Show 

Carlisle Ford Nationals Mustang drifting

The Carlisle Ford Nationals car show, one of the fastest-growing and biggest all-Ford events of its kind, has announced new details for its 2024 event, May 31-June 2 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.  

Ford lovers can expect to see new and classic cars plus be able to shop for parts within the automotive flea market, participate in various "wheels in motion" activities and network with some top-level Ford team members, including engineers, designers and other key players from Michigan.  

In addition, milestone displays will help celebrate 50 years of Carlise events, including a special Legendary Mustangs display; historical Fords; and more.  

The Carlisle Ford Nationals is taking display consideration submissions online at carlisleevents.com and through the phone at 717-243-7855. 


Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 14:29

By SEMA News Editors 

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are a few of the latest postings. 

Wilwood Engineering 

Senior Mechanical Engineer in Camarillo, California 

As a lead research and development engineer, the selected candidate will design and analyze brake systems and related components and will be responsible for independently managing development projects from inception to production.  

AccuAir 

Assistant Regional Manager in Merritt Island, Florida 

AccuAir is seeking an individual to drive sales blitzes in target areas, spreading education and awareness of the company's technology and products. The position will grow sales, capture market feedback and more.  

Nostrum High Performance 

Brand Manager in Ann Arbor, Michigan 

Nostrum High Performance is seeking a brand manager to oversee its marketing strategy and customer engagement process, including digital media, social media management, grassroots events and all other engagement opportunities.   

Milltek Corp 

Business Development Executive in Alcoa, Tennessee 

The renowned performance exhaust manufacturer is seeking someone to play a crucial role in driving its B2B activities, including identifying and establishing strategic partnerships, expanding its client base and contributing to the business' overall success. 

 

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 13:46

Northwood UniversityBy SEMA News Editors

Northwood University's University of the Aftermarket has announced registration is open for its 2024 courses.

Northwood's University of the Aftermarket coursework is designed to help businesses introduce newer employees to the motor-vehicle aftermarket industry, facilitate their tactical leadership development and more. The school offers five pillars: introduction to the motor-vehicle aftermarket, data, tactical leadership development, executive development, and organizational development. 

The following University of the Aftermarket programming is scheduled through the summer:

  • Leadership 2.0/Session 2
  • Consumer Behavior; Selling & Sales Management; The Culture of Leadership; Aftermarket Field Sales Management
  • Aftermarket 101
  • Heavy-Duty 101
  • INFUSION 2024
  • Aftermarket Data Standards
  • Heavy-Duty Leadership 2.0
  • Leadership 2.0/Session 1

Registration links, as well as full descriptions of all University of the Aftermarket courses, are available here. For more information, visit nusites.northwood.edu/apps/uofa/course-calendar.aspx or northwood.edu/programs/automotive-aftermarket-management.

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 13:27

By SEMA News Editors

'24 Ford Mustang California Special

SEMA News sources recently caught the first look at the '24 Ford Mustang CS coupe.

Mustang CS

The CS model, adorned in Grabber Blue, is highlighted by its distinctive grille with blue accents. The model features standard Carbonized Gray wheels and a model-specific spoiler. A GT/CS badge is also present.

'25 Porsche 911 Turbo

Photographers recently spotted the refreshed '25 Porsche 911 Turbo donned in camouflage, hinting at changes to both the front and rear of the car.

In addition to new taillights and a rearranged exhaust system, the new 911 Turbo is expected to have a drastically updated front bumper that differs from the facelift of the lesser models, according to insiders.

Porsche Turbo 911

The sports car is also expected to have one or two electric chargers, as well as a battery, leading to the rear redesign.

Rumors suggest the electric chargers will lead to more power for the facelifted 911 Turbo but will also add extra weight and make the car even more tail-heavy, sources said.

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 08:53

SEMA ScholarshipBy Ashley Reyes

High school seniors and college students in the United States and Canada who are pursuing careers in the automotive and performance parts industries have until March 1 to apply for a SEMA Scholarship at sema.org/scholarships.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund supports career development and access to the automotive industry by offering financial awards of up to $5,000 to help foster the next generation of industry leaders and innovators. In addition to financial assistance, scholarship winners have the chance to attend the SEMA Show, providing unparalleled education and networking opportunities.

"The SEMA Scholarship program offers an opportunity unlike any other for students to jumpstart their careers in the thriving and passion-driven automotive industry," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Program Chris Stanifer. "The automotive industry offers a wealth of career opportunities and winning a SEMA scholarship serves as a powerful catalyst to further propel a student's aspirations forward."

Since 1984, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded more than $3 million to deserving students pursuing a variety of disciplines, including accounting, sales, marketing, engineering and more.

Students can view the eligibility criteria and apply until March 1, 2024, at sema.org/scholarships.

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 08:09

WTC Meeting at SEMA GarageBy Ashley Reyes

SEMA members in the wheel and tire market still have time to secure their seats for the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) ambassador meeting, where leadership will discuss a new and exciting update about its membership. The meeting will take place in person on Wednesday, February 7, from 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. PST at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. 

Following updates about the WTC, the event will include an education session on 3D imaging for vehicle applications, presentations from SEMA's legislative staff on the California Energy Commission (CEC) replacement tire efficiency proposal and lawsuit, plus tariff and advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) regulation updates. The California Energy Commission (CEC) will also present details on low-rolling-resistance requirements for California.

The SEMA Garage team will then give members a tour of its facility, featuring demonstrations of the state-of-the-art equipment used to assist members with product development and emissions compliance needs. The meeting will conclude with a networking reception that will help members grow their professional network.  

Secure your attendance for the meeting here.

Questions can be directed to Nicole Bradle, SEMA council director, at nicoleb@sema.org.

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 07:56

Kay TherkelsenThe SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Kay Therkelsen, instructor and mentor at Bonneville High School, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Therkelsen in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What do you enjoy most about working at your current company? 

Kay Therkelsen: I enjoy watching people smile and providing unique experiences.

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

KT: Quite honestly, managing my numerous lists of things to do! Organization can sometimes be a challenge, especially when you have a variety of tasks that all seem like a top priority. Learning to manage my time and focus on the areas that need immediate attention can sometimes be challenging for me. But every day is an opportunity to learn and grow. If I cross off one item on each list a day, I have succeeded.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job?  

KT: I was born and raised in the automotive industry. I grew up at the drag strip, sand dunes and the lake. My parents owned their own high-performance automotive and marine business for 35 years.

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

KT: Being raised in and working for my parents at their high-performance automotive and marine business most definitely assisted me in where I am today. Being exposed to a world of speed with attendance at many forms of motorsports got me hooked.

Staying involved in the industry through coordinating my own car shows and events, as well as attending as many race events as I can, also helps and has kept me in the loop. My circle of friends includes many automotive industry business owners, experts and racers that keep me up-to-date and heavily involved. I am surrounded by many amazing and talented men.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

KT: Even though my dad owned his own automotive business, I never acquired the skills to work on my own vehicle. My dad's knowledge and time were all put into my big brother, and rightfully so. I can talk my way through a general automotive conversation, but quite honestly, I couldn't tell you all the things about how the car works.

Most people assume I am full of automotive knowledge and can build a car from the ground up. Today, at the age of 54 and working alongside high school students, I have found myself eager to learn and am enjoying every bit of information thrown at me. Not having full knowledge like most men that I usually find myself surrounded by can sometimes be challenging, but I have found that sharing my lack of knowledge while demonstrating my eagerness to learn has lessened the amount of harassment I receive on the daily, which I am so ok with as I tend to torment men already. My intentions are always good and a laugh or joke amid any conversation can make for a good time or lead you to new friends.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?  

KT: The influence of my parents showed me the way. I believe they would be proud of me knowing I am working in an automotive shop, sharing my knowledge and helping wherever and however I can with the program. I feel right at home whenever I step into a garage or any racetrack, for that matter. The year 2022 was my first time at SEMA and I am looking forward to many more.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

KT: Find what makes you happy and do more of that!

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?  

KT: As a young girl, I always wanted to be a schoolteacher. I never thought I could do such a thing in the automotive industry but here I am, and I am loving every minute of it. I think the automotive industry was made for me. Even with the influence of my parents' business, I still take it with pride. I love the sounds of a healthy engine, doing burnouts and I have acquired my own need for speed. I am right where I belong.

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?  

KT: Both of my parents, Otto and Linda Therkelsen, may they rest in peace.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.  

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 07:31

ETTN Emissions ComplianceBy Ashley Reyes

Laboratory tests for attaining an Executive Order (EO) from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) on an aftermarket product are both expensive and time consuming. However, other alternatives are available to speed up the calibration process and avoid costly failed lab tests. These same tools can be added to most dyno shops to document the emissions impact of modifications and custom tuning.

During the SEMA webinar, "Bridging the Gap from 'Runs Good' to Emissions Compliance," on Tuesday, February 20, at 1:00 p.m. PST, emissions engineer, author and expert Greg Banish will discuss tools to use when working on a project that will eventually apply for CARB EO certification. Attendees will learn about the tools and tactics used to deliver emissions-compliant performance calibrations, increasing the likelihood of passing an official emissions test on the first try, and therefore saving testing time and resources.

The presentation will benefit tuners and calibrators, dyno shop owners, tuning software company engineers and regulators. It presents attendees with a wide variety of tools and solutions used in emissions development and expert advice on avoiding common errors during the process.

Sign up today!

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 07:09

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has issued a call for speakers for its annual SEMA Show--taking place in Las Vegas in November 2024--and its year-round virtual education program. Innovative thinkers and dynamic presenters who can share new skills and ideas targeted to the automotive aftermarket are invited to apply at sema.org/speakers.

SEMA Education Speaker

Innovate thinkers and dynamic presenters are invited to submit speaker proposals for the 2024 SEMA Show by February 16.

Organizers are seeking experts who can facilitate new ideas, technologies and expertise at seminars that will help industry members take their businesses and careers to the next level. Educational seminars make up one of the key pillars of the SEMA Show, where thousands of industry professionals go to learn new business strategies. Likewise, SEMA's year-round virtual program provides relevant, engaging and inspiring information on the industry's complex issues and topics through online events and informational webinars.

Topics of focus for 2024 include:

  • Aftermarket updates and future trends
  • Legislative and regulatory
  • Sales and marketing
  • Small-business strategy
  • Vehicle technology and electric vehicles
  • Specific industry segments

Speaker proposals for the 2024 SEMA Show must be submitted by February 16. Virtual education proposals can be submitted at any time throughout the year. Submit proposals at sema.org/speakers. For more details, contact Gary Vigil, senior manager of professional development, at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.

Thu, 01/25/2024 - 06:40

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Hyundai, the SEMA Garage has announced there are still spots remaining for its measuring session for the all-new '24 Hyundai Santa Fe.

Hyundai Sante Fe

Did someone mention off-road and overland? This exclusive event, February 6-7 in Southern California, will present Santa Fe's all-new, highly anticipated XRT trim level. The XRT trim is decked with rugged features like all-terrain tires, raised ground clearance, HTRAC all-wheel drive and more.

SEMA members will have the opportunity to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have a close-up experience ahead of the vehicle's public release. If you're passionate about the off-road and overland industry, this is an event that you don't want to miss.

Digital data for the vehicle will be available through the SEMA Tech Transfer program following the event.

'24 Hyundai Santa Fe Measuring Session

February 6-7, 2024

 SEMA Garage in Southern California

 1577 Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 View on Google Maps.

 Click here to RSVP!

For more information, visit the RSVP link or contact measuringsessions@sema.org. Don't delay; spots are filling up fast. RSVP now.