By SEMA Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Here are some of the latest jobs posted on the website.

Classic Performance Products

Inside Sales Manager

Based in Placentia, California, Classic Performance Products seeks someone to drive and achieve corporate goals and objectives by continually improving sales, order processing and the customer service experience.

Derive Systems

Jr. Customer Success Technician

Derive Systems, the parent company of Bully Dog, SCT Performance and Derive VQ, is looking for someone to answer customer's questions and concerns, and troubleshoot issues and more. The position can be remote in Idaho or hybrid or remote in Florida. 

For more information, including how to apply for jobs or to post job listings, visit the SEMA Career Center here.

Six Hoosier broadcasters--including the late motorsports journalist Robin Miller--will be inducted into the Indiana Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame this Fall. 

Known nationally to viewers of ESPN, SPEED and NBC, Miller's career covered more than 50 years, including 30 plus at the Indianapolis Star. Unsurprisingly, much of his career focused on auto racing since he owned race cars and drove them for 10 years. Robin is in the Motorsports Hall of Fame and Sprint Car Hall of Fame.

The Indiana Broadcasters Association's 2023 Hall of Fame class also includes play-by-play announcer Mark Boyle, radio show host Deb Miles, game-show host and sports broadcaster Mark Patrick, television producer Clayton Taylor and meteorologist Marcia Yockey.

This year's Hall of Fame class will be inducted during the annual Indiana Broadcasters Conference, October 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

New Minority Owner at Joe Gibbs Racing

Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR)--the NASCAR organization with four Cup Series teams, three Xfinity Series teams and an ARCA Series team--has announced a new minority owner. JGR has received a significant investment from Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) and Arctos Partners.

"Josh Harris, David Blitzer and their entire team have a vision that has delivered winning franchises in basketball, hockey, soccer and youth sports. Their teams are among the most successful in their leagues in growing audience and sponsorship and their commitment to the communities they work in is unparalleled," said Joe Gibbs, team owner.

Through the investment, Joe Gibbs will also become a limited partner in Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, pending approval by the NBA and the NHL.

SCCA Announces Club Spec

The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) has announced its new Club Spec concept, which is "built on the success of Solo Spec Coupe," and is "an idea that would introduce a series of spec classes over the next few years that do everything SCCA does."

"Long gone are the days where every member picks their competition type and stays there forever," said Heyward Wagner, SCCA senior director of Rally/Solo and Experiential Programs. "Yes, we do have members who autocross or road race and have no interest in trying out other forms of participation within the SCCA--and that's great. But at the same time, the Club has more and more members looking for a one-size-fits-all vehicle that can be competitive and fun no matter the venue, allowing them to autocross one weekend, run a Time Trials event the next, and be competitive in both."

For complete details, visit the SCCA announcement here.

For more racing news, visit the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) website here. 

By Mike Imlay

The SEMA Show draws more than 130,000 attendees each year. The Show arms exhibitors with many cost-effective tools for connecting with the buyers they want to see.

With the countdown on to the 2023 SEMA Show, industry manufacturers and suppliers are busily working on their exhibition strategies for the annual trade event, set for October 31–November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. At press time, the Show was on track to top 2,000 exhibitors eager to launch their latest innovations, highlight existing products and strengthen business connections at the industry's premier trade gathering.

"The SEMA Show is one of the highest attended trade shows in the United States each year," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins, explaining the enthusiasm. "If you as an exhibitor are absent, then the narrative and perception of your business within the industry is out of your control, and possibly worse, it gives your competition the chance to tell a better story."

But more than just being there, experienced exhibitors know that ultimate return on investment (ROI) rests on solid pre-Show planning. The event attracts more than 130,000 attendees, including more than 70,000 buyers and decision-makers from around the world each year. That presents a massive potential audience, and there are tried and true ways for exhibitors to leverage it.

"The size of your exhibit is less important than the fact that you are at the Show, executing a game plan and following through on the business connections you make. That's the recipe for success," noted Tompkins.

"Companies that approach SEMA Week passively can easily miss out on customers and prospects. Fortunately, the Show has many built-in features to help businesses of all sizes minimize overall costs while effectively amplifying their presence."

With that in mind, the following are some expert tips that will have your company exhibiting like a seasoned pro.

1. Take Advantage of Value-Added SEMA Show Programs

Of all the Show features that can boost traffic to your booth, the New Products Showcase remains in a class by itself. Year after year, surveys confirm that it is the No. 1 buyer destination—and often their first stop—at the Show.

"We promote the Showcase aggressively," explained Tompkins. "It highlights your new products and creates what we refer to as 'breadcrumbs' right to your booth." 

Placing one or more new or feature products into the New Products Showcase is among the most successful strategies for luring attendees to a booth. Don't miss taking advantage of it.

That's because each product gets a scannable code that links buyers to your place on the show floor via the SEMA Show app. Plus, Tompkins adds, "the first product you enter is free, with additional products costing $95 before October 6 and $150 after that. So it's a great opportunity to generate leads and exposure for very little cost, especially if you take advantage of early deadlines."

Beyond the Showcase, exhibitors can leverage other publicity tools. "When you purchase booth space, you automatically get a listing in the print and online Show directories, plus the mobile app. So make sure your company name, product categories, contact information and other data is up to date and correct," advised Tompkins. 

Exhibitors can also submit free press releases to the SEMA Show Online Media Center (SEMAShow.com/press) in advance of SEMA Week to help build buzz.

"You can also increase your lead capture and the Show with our CSI lead retrieval program. It's an app-based tool that lets you scan a contact's badge to store and access their info. It's a great advantage for exhibitors," said Tompkins.

2. Use Proven Strategies to Pull Buyers to Your Booth

The key to attracting buyers at the Show is to actually start inviting them to your booth before the Show. "You really want to think about a 30-day plan leading up to the Show," recommended Tompkins. When exhibitors register for the Show, they gain access to tools allowing them to send alerts and registration links to customers. Any pre-Show publicity should include your booth number, new and featured products you plan to exhibit, and demonstrations or opportunities they'll encounter in your exhibit.

"Think deeply about the 'why' of visiting your booth," added Tompkins. "Will you have a show special? Anything unique that you're offering? An event that you're planning or celebrity signing or meet and greet? You want to differentiate yourself from the competition and neighboring booths."

Booth demonstrations are a key advantage of face-to-face trade shows, and a prime way to pique buyer interest. Think carefully about the feng shui of your booth.

Of course, at the SEMA Show, a vehicle display can speak volumes. "A vehicle in your booth will certainly draw attention. But even if you can't do that, you can feature or sponsor a vehicle elsewhere at the Show," Tompkins noted. Like products displayed in the New Products Showcase, feature vehicles have scannable codes that link to all the products and brands used in the vehicle build, along with the booth locations of the product suppliers.

3. Plan, Budget and Leverage Resources to Control Show Costs

Lowering the costs associated with exhibiting begins with watching deadlines. "The most tangible opportunity is to make sure you order all your Freeman services before their September 28 discount deadline," Tompkins emphasized. "That actually delivers a 40% savings on basically any service you order, from material handling to having a sign hung over your booth--the whole host of services that Freeman offers." 

"We also have material handling built into booth purchases. For example, if you have 400 sq. ft. or less of exhibit space, you get up to 500 lbs. of material handling at no extra cost. That means you can get most of your freight into the building for no additional cost."

Regularly consulting the SEMA Show Exhibitor Services Manual (ESM) will also help you stay on top of deadlines---and save you time and money in other ways (see sidebar, below).

Meanwhile, thinking carefully about your exhibit space can further control costs. Make a realistic appraisal of the staffing and display-related items you'll require. Assess your electrical, lighting and internet needs, along with any necessary signage, graphics, furnishings, literature and collateral or promotional items. Try to anticipate the booth traffic flow. Mock out your booth design well in advance of the Show to help brainstorm what you really need and eliminate waste.

"You can maximize savings by really streamlining things," underscored Tompkins. "Consider your goals: Do you need to accommodate multiple appointments at once? Do you need multiple sales stations? Would you like somebody to meet and greet your customers so they can make sure they're connecting with the right employee?"

The SEMA Show ESM also features a Budget Checklist to further help exhibitors control costs. "You really want to utilize our Budget Checklist because it's going to walk you through a whole series of ways you can plan and save money and time at the Show," said Tompkins. "One example is the different opportunities you have to ship your freight to the Show. If you utilize our advanced warehouse or ship to Show site, that can not only help you with setup, but maximize your time. With the advance warehouse, Freeman can guarantee the day your freight will arrive on the Show floor. You'll be ready to go. That's just one money-saving tip."

Of course, exhibiting at the SEMA Show also involves transportation and accommodation expenses. Here again, Show management has worked to help exhibitors control their costs by negotiating discounted transportation and lodging packages with major airlines and key Las Vegas hotels. Alaska, Delta and United are among the airlines offering the discounted, round-trip airfares to Las Vegas.

Meanwhile, making hotel reservations in the "SEMA Show block" provides exhibitors with the most affordable and convenient options for a wide range of hotels located on and off the Strip while locking in guaranteed lowest rates. Many of the hotels offer easy access to the Las Vegas monorail system, further saving on commuting costs to and from the convention center and other city destinations. All these travel and lodging options can be found at SEMAshow.com.

4. Work with Show Experts to Maximize Your ROI

"One often overlooked resource is our SEMA Show sales reps," said Tompkins. "I really want to emphasize turning to them because I don't think many exhibitors realize that they can just pick up the phone and call their rep at any time. Our reps are well-trained to help them through every phase of exhibiting and answer any questions or concerns."

Exhibitors can connect with their SEMA Show representatives through the SEMA website (SEMAShow.com/contact), its general phone number at 909-610-2030 by email at semashow@sema.org. No question or concern is too big or trivial for your rep to help with.

"We're always happy to answer any questions and help make sure you maximize your ROI on-site at the Show," Tompkins emphasized. "Plus, there's a Freeman concierge service that can answer questions and provide on-site tips to help save on setup costs. SEMA also shares tips through emails and regular SEMA News digital content leading up to the Show, so you'll want to tap in to those resources too."

5. Explore Promotional Opportunities

It's a simple fact: booth promotion boosts traffic. A good exhibiting strategy will embrace pre-Show, on-site and post-Show follow-up, and sponsorships can play an important role.

"From a sponsorship perspective, SEMA offers a variety of opportunities," said Tompkins. "Whether through SEMA News, both the printed and digital versions, through the SEMA Show mobile app, or through a variety of other pre-Show communications, we can help you reach your audience before they arrive in Vegas."

"Once they're on-site, there's a whole other variety of potential touchpoints, including banners, aisle signs, billboards, carpet decals or meter boards--just all sorts of ways to reinforce your brand and booth location as people walk around the Show."

Whether or not exhibitors take advantage of official SEMA Show programs, they should pay close attention to augmenting their promotional materials with digital assets like QR codes, which can help immerse their audience in a marketing experience. Pens, lanyards, tote bags and other keepsakes can also extend that brand messaging beyond the Show.

"When it comes to promotions or sponsorships, think about where you most need to engage your audience, where you need the most support," advised Tompkins. "I'd also stress that your SEMA Show rep can be your liaison here. They're adept at helping you customize your experience and choose the right sponsorship. Some opportunities can be bundled—things like aisle signs and being in the SEMA Show Directory and having a page in SEMA News or the SEMA Show Pocket Guide."

Moreover, there are SEMA Show promo packages tailored to any exhibitor size. One online promo tool costs just $545, and there are ways to get ads into SEMA News properties for less than $1,000. "For a relatively low investment, you're going to gain a much more visible presence," Tompkins explained.

Bonus Tip: Enhance Your Show Experience

Beyond the show floor, the SEMA Show offers countless networking opportunities, demonstrations, vehicle displays and live-action features to keep you abreast of where the industry is headed. More than that, it offers world-class speaker presentations and educational seminars that can help advance your personal, business and employee-development goals. Best of all, most of them are free.

Carefully watching deadlines and taking advantage of the Show's built-in discounts can save you time, money and effort on your move-in day, increasing your ROI.

"Our educational opportunities embrace a lot of different ideas and practical instruction to become more successful in your business, learn digital marketing techniques, and advance a variety of other skills. And if you have people you're trying to grow, nurture and mentor, these are great tools that you can take advantage of," Tompkins pointed out.

Conclusion

When leveraged properly, a live trade event offers unmatched opportunity for face-to-face connections with existing and potential new business customers. Time and again--in both bullish and bearish markets--exhibiting at the SEMA Show has proven a sound investment for business growth.

"Sometimes in an uncertain economy, your reaction can be to make drastic cuts, sit things out, or avoid the additional investment it can take to reach out to customers before, during or after the Show," conceded Tompkins. "But consider that your customers are going to be looking for confidence from you as a brand. They want to know that you're going to be there for them, that you're there to answer questions, that you're going to be shipping the product that they need and rely on. So really, being at the SEMA Show offers a great return on investment. All it takes is the right strategy."

Sidebar: The SEMA Show Exhibitor Services Manual (ESM)

The ESM is a vital online information tool assembled by SEMA Show management to assist exhibitors with every phase of their Show experience. Consulting the manual early and often can help exhibitors save money, time and effort while maximizing return on investment. Organized for convenience, the ESM contains the following detailed categories of information:

• Show Guidelines and Policies.

• Deadline Dates.

• Marketing Opportunities.

• Meeting-Room Applications.

• Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities.

• Target Times--When Your Freight Must Be at Your Booth.

• General Service Contractor Information.

• Shipping Information.

"For exhibitors, the ESM is a one-stop guide to leveraging the Show," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "It includes a deadline checklist, which is a great way to make sure you're not missing any discount deadlines and other cost-saving opportunities."

To access this valuable planning resource, go to SEMAShow.com/ESM.

Sidebar: Industry Exhibitors and Buyers are Geared Up for the 2023 SEMA Show

Eager to connect with buyers and media in person, introduce new products, develop relationships and tell their company stories, the 2023 SEMA Show was on track to exceed 2,000 exhibiting companies at this article's press time.

An up-to-date exhibitor list of the major automakers, iconic aftermarket brands, and new, first-time exhibitors confirmed for the Show can be viewed at SEMAshow.com/floorplan. Meanwhile, key buying organizations attending the Show can be found at SEMAshow.com/buyer-highlights.

Exhibiting at the SEMA Show puts your latest products in front of tens of thousands of qualified buyers from every segment of the specialty-equipment industry. If you haven't yet added your company to the roster, there's still time. Go to SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Editors

The Wheel Group (TWG)--the Ontario, California-based manufacturer and distributor of automotive wheels, tires, offroad and overland parts and vehicle accessories--has announced industry veteran Jill Hepp has joined the company as marketing manager. In her new role, Hepp will further develop TWG's growing position in the automotive aftermarket and lead its growth across its multiple brands.

"Jill's deep breadth of experience in marketing positions at multiple leading companies and her professionalism makes her a valuable addition to The Wheel Group," said Wade Kawasaki, TWG executive chairman. "I look forward to her helping lead growth across our current group of dynamic and innovative brands as well as our future acquisitions as we continue to grow our portfolio of brands."

In her most recent role as senior director of marketing at Derive Systems, Hepp extensively grew revenue for its Bully Dog and SCT performance-tuning brands through SMS and affiliate marketing. Prior, Hepp served as the director of marketing for the ACCEL Performance Group and its family of brands, including Mr. Gasket, ACCEL, Mallory Ignition, Lakewood, QuickTime and Hays.

By SEMA Editors

The '24 Ford F-150 R was captured almost entirely undisguised during its unofficial debut in Metro Detroit. The front end shows that the off-road truck will get updates to the front fascia, including the grille, headlights and bumper. In fact, the Ford font on the grille appears to have a new texture and embossed edges framed in a bowtie at the corners. Vertical slats appear in the background with a partial honeycomb pattern overlapping. Additionally, a new set of graphics adorn the front fenders and bedside of the Raptor R.

While this prototype had the interior draped in camo, sources expect the refreshed model to get a larger, vertically oriented screen as an option.

'24 Ford Explorer ST Spotted in Michigan

Another Ford model has been captured nearly completely undisguised, this time, the '24 Ford Explorer ST-line. Although Ford has already introduced an electric version of the Explorer in the European market, the U.S. version will be a refresh of the internal combustion engine (ICE) Explorer.

Significant design changes include a more distinctive and bolder appearance, characterized by a more prominent grille that resembles the one found on the Chinese version of the Explorer. Additionally, there are all-new headlights and revised taillights.

By SEMA Editors

Registration for the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, is open at SEMAShow.com/register. Show management is dedicated to making the event as cost-effective as possible for all. Register by June 30 for just $40. Registration is $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

Registering early allows attendees to take advantage of the best rates and receive all the necessary information to plan their SEMA Show experience. Early registration also ensures that attendees will receive their badges in the mail before this year's event.

This year's SEMA Show will offer an attendee and buyer experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. The event is the best place to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends, and tailor a professional development plan with best-in-class education programs led by subject-matter experts, thought leaders and industry leaders.

Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!

International Buyers and Attendees

International travelers can request a letter of invitation during the registration process. Unsure if you will require a visa from your country of origin? Use the U.S. Department of State's handy Visa Wizard to determine your needs. In addition, many countries are eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. If you are traveling from any eligible country, register for your Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before your travel.

If you have questions or need assistance, contact customer service at 866-229-3687. International callers dial direct +1-224-563-3154 or email aapexsema@csreg.zohodesk.com. Service is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. CDT.

By Mike Imlay

First launched in 2019, SEMA Electrified grew to a SEMA Show section featuring more than 60 cutting-edge vehicles in 2022. Rebranded as the SEMA EV and Future Propulsion exhibit for 2023, it will add hybrids and other alternative-propulsion vehicles to its showcase.

Today's rapidly evolving vehicle landscape can leave many in the specialty-equipment industry wondering where and how they'll fit into a future of battery-electric and other propulsion alternatives. What challenges will aftermarket businesses face, and what new opportunities--if any--lay ahead? Fortunately, 2023 SEMA Show attendees will discover the answers to these questions and more in a newly expanded SEMA EV and Future Propulsion section, October 31–November 3, in Las Vegas.

Formerly known simply as SEMA Electrified, the exhibit space is being rebranded to reflect the wide range of emerging vehicle propulsion technologies designed to address emissions and carbon-reduction concerns. Relocating to the Las Vegas Convention Center's (LVCC) Central Hall, the exhibit will go beyond battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to wow attendees with the latest hybrid, clean hydrogen, compressed natural gas (CNG) and fuel cell solutions, along with promising new developments in "synthetic" biofuels. 

"When you think about the evolution of the automobile and its performance over the last six decades, the SEMA Show has always been at the epicenter," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "It's the one Show where industry visionaries come together to shape not only how automobiles are enjoyed and accessorized, but also their future direction. The drive to innovate is part of our industry's DNA, and a hallmark of the SEMA Show."

The SEMA EV and Future Propulsion feature reflects SEMA's "tech-agnostic" stance toward achieving cleaner, better-performing vehicles. Recently, SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola noted that "SEMA prides itself on maintaining a forward-looking vision that embraces new technology, including EVs and other zero-emissions vehicles. "The specialty automotive aftermaket has led the way on alternative fuel innovations, from replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions to converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric, hydrogen and other alternative fuels," he said, adding that while embracing such innovations, SEMA opposes excessive regulation that limits consumer choice. Rather, SEMA favors market-driven solutions to protect the environment.

"SEMA and the SEMA Show take a 360-degree view on meeting clean-propulsion challenges," added Gattuso. "That's why we think this special Show feature is going to be particularly impactful."

CATEGORY GROWTH ON DISPLAY

SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins noted that the Show added the SEMA Electrified exhibit in 2019, and it has significantly grown each year since. However, moving the SEMA EV and Future Propulsion to the Show's Central Hall now puts it front and center for attendees eager to grasp new business opportunities. 

A place of discovery and discussion, the Show section also supports the SEMA Show's educational mission to help Show attendees understand alternative-propulsion technologies and the new opportunities they afford the aftermarket.

"The Central Hall, like the name implies, is a hub of the Show," he explained. "So positioning the exhibit there is very strategic. It's a showcase that helps attendees to really understand what's happening in the category. They'll see some of the latest OEM offerings, how they're being accessorized, and how the industry is already pushing the creative envelope with new innovations, parts and services."

The square footage of the exhibit space, along with the sheer variety of vehicles and products displayed, will also increase for 2023, according to SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology Luis Morales, who is playing a lead role in organizing the section. "We were able to grow SEMA Electrified to 60 BEVs in 2022, but with the addition of hybrids and other alternative powertrains, the SEMA EV and Future Propulsion section will be much more robust," he said. "We're also reserving certain booths around the feature area for companies specializing in this category. We want to showcase what this entire category really looks like for our industry."  

"Clearly, we've reached a tipping point with electrification--at least 5% of vehicles sold are now BEVs, and that percentage is growing. They're here to stay. But there are still a lot of ICE vehicles out in the consumer world already. So how do we make those clean? That's going to be through alternative fuels, and we're going to highlight that too." 

The space is also adjacent to the Show's Racing & Performance section, which is also appropriate, given the racing industry's recent moves toward carbon neutrality. "A lot of advances are being pioneered by the racing industry right now," noted Morales. "Whether you're looking at International Motor Sports Association Racing or Formula 1, they've all made a commitment to deriving a certain percentage of their fuel from renewable sources. In fact, Formula 1 has set a goal of running on 100% renewable fuels by 2026. Once they've achieved this, I think we can expect to see these fuels scaled down to consumer levels."

A PLACE OF EXPLORATION

Tompkins agreed that the industry is poised for change. "The SEMA Show's legacy has of course been ICE vehicles. But our industry has always been open to the new ways of tomorrow. We see our Show as a platform for dialogue where the entire automotive aftermarket can come together and discuss possibilities. This section is another tool to forecast the future and spark new ideas and evolutions that we're not even thinking of yet," he said.

Morales added that part of that discussion will center on comparing the inherent advantages and challenges of all the technologies consumers will soon have to choose from.

"By definition, when you look at alternative fuels and powertrains, you have to analyze life cycle analysis [LCA]," he observed. "In that LCA, for example, you have to ask how the fuel is being produced--what energy resources are being used? You have to account for the carbon footprint from the fuel's origin outwards to the tailpipe."

"And that's a big argument for a lot of folks questioning an EV-only future. The car might be carbon-emissions-free right at the tailpipe. But there are a lot of other emissions associated with producing batteries and generating the electricity to charge those vehicles. Proponents of hydrogen and propane argue that they look at the whole cycle to become carbon-neutral."

Morales further pointed out that hydrogen is an ICE alternative, which will make it an attractive choice for many specialty-equipment businesses already familiar with that terrain. "So we're going to showcase vehicles powered by hydrogen alongside hydrogen-fuel-cell vehicles. And then we'll also showcase advances in eFuels, from propane to biofuels and ethanol."

The '22 Volkswagen ID.4 was named the 2022 SEMA Show's EV of the Year. The SEMA Awards underscore the synergy between OEMs and the aftermarket, and the expanded SEMA EV and Future Propulsion exhibit promises to push that collaboration forward with alternative powertrains.

For the foreseeable future, Morales believes that no one application will win out. For example, BEVs might serve city commuters well, but their weight and limited range presently makes them ill-suited to long-haul trucking. Likewise, propane, hydrogen or CNG might prove a better solution for buses and commercial van fleets. Farmers and ranchers will also likely want non-BEV alternatives for their work trucks and equipment.

Tompkins meanwhile believes the electrification and alternative-propulsion category is opening a fresh avenue for the aftermarket to engage with major automakers. "Obviously, a lot of the OEMs owe their histories to ICE, but we and the OEM community understand that things are evolving. We all want to deliver our customers new vehicle innovations and marketable options. This section of the Show helps us all to collaborate on that," he said.

"First, this is a great showcase where OEMs can meet with media and share their EV and alternative-propulsion stories. It's also a place they can connect with an important slice of their supplier community as well as end resellers. Plus, they can network with car builders and experts from across the world and get a sense of what's happening in our industry with these technologies."

ADVANCING NEW OPPORTUNITIES

More importantly, though, the revamped SEMA EV and Future Propulsion exhibit is a place for Show attendees to discover fresh opportunities.

"It's important to explore new technology because that's what so many of our customers are looking for today," Tompkins asserted. "They're more focused on sustainability and environmental impact. We can continue to power our industry for opportunities at the Show to include in-depth looks at emerging propulsion technologies. Among other programs, the SEMA Show will offer its first EV certification workshop in partnership with Legacy EV (more details can be found in the article named SEMA 2023 Education Program to Offer EV Certification by Legacy EV).

Meanwhile, SEMA's commitment to preparing the aftermarket for the changing landscape also extends beyond the Show. "Among other programs, we offer a full array of product-development services through the SEMA Garages in both Diamond Bar and Detroit, including a Tech Transfer program for CAD data for late-model OEM vehicles," said Morales. "We've also upfitted the Detroit Garage for EV range testing. We also have the ability to add that testing to the Diamond Bar Garage as demand increases as well."

As for the SEMA Show itself, "What I'm most excited about is that not only will we have the showcase for EV and future propulsion, but many different displays and information and education areas, media discussions and networking events all focused on what's coming next," said Tompkins. "There will be innovations in the New Products Showcase and top-level brand solutions from exhibitors."

"Although some companies may choose to specialize in the EV and alternative powertrain space, we see many others adjusting their products to fit both ICE and EV platforms--call it powertrain-agnostic. Either way, the SEMA EV and Future Propulsion section should be a must-visit item on every SEMA Show attendee's itinerary."

REGISTER NOW!

The 2023 SEMA Show is slated for October 31–November 3, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas. There is no other trade show where attendees can see thousands of product innovations from new and iconic exhibitors, experience the latest product and custom vehicle trends, get access to 90-plus free professional skill-enhancing education sessions and make career-changing connections with peers, leaders and celebrities at the industry's most anticipated in-person networking event.

If you haven't yet made plans to attend, there's still time. To register, go to SEMAShow.com/registration.

SOME EXHIBITING COMPANIES

Participation in the 2023 SEMA EV and Future Propulsion feature section continues to grow. At press time, the following were among the initial exhibitors who signed on. Consult SEMAShow.com for ongoing updates.

• Ampere EV LLC

• Battery Tender

• BendPak

• EINTAC USA

• Hypercraft

• Legacy EV

• Scorpion EV

• Speedhut

• The SWITCH Lab

• ZAPME USA

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is accepting nominations for its prestigious Gen-III Innovator of the Year award, presented to a young, entrepreneurial individual who is revolutionizing the automotive aftermarket. The distinguished award recognizes the contributions of a remarkable individual, 40 years old or younger, who is driving breakthroughs in the industry through their innovative technologies, business models, startups or trends.

"This award celebrates a rising star who is advancing the industry with their fresh ideas and commitment to pushing boundaries," said Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs. "All members-at-large are encouraged to submit a nomination to help recognize the accomplishments of a young innovator and give them the chance to be honored by the industry."

Mike Burns, CEO of ValvoMax, was recognized with the 2022 Gen-III Innovator of the Year award for his outstanding commitment to the industry and high level of involvement with SEMA committees, task forces, councils and overall participation.

 

The SEMA Gen-III Innovator of the Year award will be presented alongside the Person of the Year and Content Creator of the Year awards on Thursday, November 2, at the 2023 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet. The Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year awards will be presented on Tuesday, October 31, at the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast.

SEMA members can join in honoring industry excellence by submitting nominations for all five SEMA Industry Awards now at sema.org/awards. 

[Editors' note: You can also submit a recommendation form if you don't have all the requested information to complete the nomination form. When you submit a recommendation form, the awards committee sends a nomination form to the person or business you recommend so they can complete their nomination.]

By Elizabeth Prosser, I-CAR

The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) has announced its participation at the highly anticipated SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. With a commitment to advancing collision repair knowledge and skills to car lovers and enthusiasts, I-CAR is set to deliver the following courses as part of SEMA's Education Program: 

• MIG welding technology and applications.
• Color theory applications for painting vehicles. 
• Electric vehicle (EV) overview and considerations. 
• Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) overview and considerations.  

As a not-for-profit organization and the industry's baseline and leader for technical educational programming, I-CAR recognizes the importance of staying at the forefront of vehicle advancements and providing professionals with learning opportunities to excel in their respective roles.

"Back by popular demand and exclusive to SEMA, I-CAR will be offering a MIG welding technology and applications training session focusing on basic to advanced techniques and ideal for classic car, hot-rod and vehicle builders/rebuilders and other technicians," said Bud Center, I-CAR director of technical products and curriculum. "Although not eligible for I-CAR credit, to encourage newer vehicle builders out there, I-CAR is making this popular MIG Welding session available for $75 (normally $150) and will include complimentary, hands-on welding practice at the SEMA Collision Repair Stage."

Key highlights of I-CAR's presence at SEMA 2023 will include: 

1. Various Course Offerings: These courses focus on core and emerging vehicle technologies to support newer and seasoned technicians' desire to expand knowledge areas. 
2. Industry Partnerships: I-CAR will highlight its strategic collaborations with leading industry partners, including OEMs, suppliers and service providers. These partnerships help to ensure I-CAR's programs are in pace with the latest industry trends and technologies, enabling professionals to survive and thrive in the "Technical Tsunami."
3. Expert Presentations: I-CAR's subject-matter experts will deliver informative presentations and panel discussions, sharing their insights on critical industry topics, emerging trends, and the future of collision repair. Attendees will be able to engage with these experts and expand their knowledge through interactive Q&A sessions.  

"Our presence at SEMA provides an ideal platform to connect with industry stakeholders, share best practices, and drive innovation in the collision repair industry," said John Van Alstyne, I-CAR CEO and president.

Online registration for I-CAR courses is now open online here and also on-site through Thursday, November 2, outside I-CAR Upper South Hall Classrooms S224 and S225. For more information about I-CAR and its participation at SEMA 2023, visit SEMAshow.com.

By Douglas McColloch and SEMA Editors

Exhibitors at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, will want to take advantage of the New Products Showcase, the No. 1 destination for media members and buyers to discover new parts and technology straight from the SEMA Show floor. As always, exhibitors can enter their first product free of charge. Note: additional entries are $95 per product until October 6. After, extra entries are $150.] 

Enter your company's product(s) at SEMAshow.com/newproducts.

Research shows that exhibitors that enter products into the Showcase see more buyers in their booths and receive more media coverage, but those looking to generate some extra pre-Show buzz can upload their New Products Showcase entries to the SEMAShow.com online media center.

The additional exposure provided by the online media center can help attract the notice of buyers looking for the newest specialty-equipment products. The added exposure can also attract the attention of media representatives in search of the latest product news and reviews.

Posting your registered New Products Showcase entries to the SEMAShow.com online media center is as simple as providing a product description and uploading a press release and a high-resolution image of your new product. Exhibitors can post as many separate press releases as they like, and there is no charge to use the online media center.

Enter your New Products Showcase press releases and images for the 2023 SEMA Show at semashow.com/node/add/press_release.