SEMA News—July 2014
RESTYLING & CAR CARE ACCESSORIES NEW PRODUCTS
By Steve Campbell
Making the Old New and Bringing Out the Luster
Car-Care and Restyling Products From the 2013 SEMA Show
From classic cars to today’s modern muscle, every automobile requires care, and each can also benefit from components that may subtly or outrageously change a vehicle’s appearance. At the 2013 SEMA Show, dozens of products were displayed under the car-care and restyling classifications in the New Products Showcase. The range of innovation ran from spoiler sunroofs and body side moldings to polishes, waxes and protective films. We’ve gathered the full contingent for your perusal here, along with comments on industry trends from a few executives who represent some of the industry’s leading car-care companies.
| View More than 175 Restyling & Care Care New Products and Expert Comments from the 2014 SEMA Show on PDF |
The 3M Accuspray spray gun model HG14 features replaceable atomizing-head technology that is specifically designed for the application of coatings requiring the use of a 1.4mm atomizing head. The benefits of the HG14 include excellent atomization, reduction in solvent usage and cleanup time and the ability to have a new spray gun on demand. | VR-12.com VR-12 is the ultimate cooling system protection. A truly green product, it will prevent rust,corrosion, oxidation and electrolysis. Improves gas mileage, keeps motors clean and gets more life out of the engine. Better heat transfer, and it lowers temperature. Non-toxic, non-flammable, and it’s designed for all types of vehicles makes and models. | |
Clerigan’s is an instant headlight restoration product that guarantees headlights will be restored up to 90% clarity while using only the environmentally friendly VOC-free liquid formula and a paper towel. One bottle will do up to five pairs of headlights. See clear again with Clerigans! |
The Rupes Bigfoot LHR 21ES random orbital polisher guarantees fast cutting and an impressive finish. The design combines comfort, maneuverability and strength. | |
GetLit LLC Dronz is a patented license-plate presentation system equipped with innovative lighting and finish options. Engineered for easy installation. |
Fender Gripper Inc. is a leader in non-slip fender covers and trunk mats. Fender Grippers offer the ultimate in protection for vehicles. They will not slip off the fender, are impervious to engine fluids and are completely washable. Fender Grippers are licensed by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Custom and private labels are available. | |
Intromark Inc. Megatester is a high-quality aluminum multi-use tool that safely and easily tests unenergized circuits. It can also test fuses, cords, switches, circuit breakers and more. |
KoossPad is an innovative new product that attaches under an automobile and is designed to catch and retain motor oil that leaks onto driveways, garage floors and parking lots. It also reduces the amount of motor oil that flows down storm drains after rain and pollutes lakes, rivers and drinking water. It also helps preserve wildlife. In boxes of 50 and 100 pads or display individual KoossPad by hang tag on a shelf, counter or display wall. | |
Luxwood Auto Trim Design Inc. Unique and exclusive process that utilizes a self-healing clearcoat that is 55 times thicker and more durable than regular painted moldings. The process allows for the fastest market availability for new models and can be quickly adapted to any vehicle. Specially developed reflective material in the chrome insert adds a great visual impact. |
Xp3 is a 100% biodegradable fuel enhancer that has been used globally by large fleets since 1989 and was only recently introduced to the retail consumer market. Xp3 fuel enhancer increases power and performance and fuel economy, transforms water into burnable fuel, improves stabilization, lubricity and detergency of fuels and extends engine life. | |
A 100% garment-dyed cotton tee, Laid-Back tees are the most comfortable shirt in the world, the company says. |
Exclusive high-resistance carbon material combines with designer nylon stitches to match vehicle upholstery. This process can be adapted to most models and offers a wide range of possibilities. | |
This device makes a seatbelt more comfortable by spacing it away from the neck 1 to 2 in., providing the person with a safe and lawful way to wear the seat belt without altering the belt design. This product has passed all testing at the National Transportation Institution at Michigan University governing seatbelt laws. |
The Reflekx series combines chrome and specially developed reflective material. The Reflekx part can create the illusion of a mirror flasher or fog lights on vehicles without them. The Reflekx series can be adapted to any vehicle and customized to meet the client’s demands. The Reflekx series pushes the design limits of standard chrome accessories. | |
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KoossPad is an innovative new product that attaches under an automobile and is designed to catch and retain motor oil that leaks onto driveways, garage floors and parking lots. It also reduces the amount of motor oil that flows down storm drains after rain and pollutes lakes, rivers and drinking water. It also helps preserve wildlife. In boxes of 50 and 100 pads or display individual KoossPad by hang tag on a shelf, counter or display wall. | |
Paint protection installation aid with PPF installation DVD. Prep body panels, dry edges on PPF, heat film for removal. Using the POD system and method will decrease installation ime.Our consumer research tells us that more than 75% of new-car buyers now keep their vehicles for at least 10 years. |
New technology finally brings a product that effectively cleans and rejuvenates hard-to-clean Alcantara. Simply spray it on, allow it to work and wipe it clean. A soft brush will | |
Scotchgard Paint Protection Film Pro Series from 3M is an industry game changer. It harnesses the latest technology to help preserve the quality of a vehicle’s paint finish and enhance its resale value. The film handles beautifully and is easier for installers to apply, while providing consumers with clarity, long-term durability and scratch and stain resistance. The urethane film protects vulnerable areas on vehicles from rock chips, door dings and bug acids. Thousands of window tinters throughout the United States often look to grow their businesses. We have seen an increase in the number of tinters adding paint-protection film to their portfolio of products. Installing paint-protection film along with window film helps them to grow their businesses with very little effort. The skill set to install the films is very similar. —Chetan Salian |
Consumers now demand more and more, from wanting product samples to wanting access to companies through social media. They want to connect and be a part of something that’s in the forefront, so it’s actually pretty cool to see how much our clients interact with us. Our category and the distribution chain have expanded, and our clients now look to us as a one-stop shop. From towels to empty spray bottles and nozzles, they want everything from one source. Social media plays a large role in our business. Through it, our customers are becoming dealers. It is an honor when our customers join our team. It means our process and products —Frank DeFeo | |
The use of hazardous chemicals has sharply declined because of the expanding use of smarter, more environmentally responsible chemicals, but the most challenging task for the chemical industry—car-care products included—is to be compliant with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) by June 1, 2015. Developed by the United Nations, the GHS will standardize the classification of health, physical and environmental hazards as well as specify the information to be included on labels and safety data sheets of hazardous chemicals. The goal is to improve the health and safety of consumers, workers and the environment by ensuring consistent hazard communication. Hi-Lustre’s ability to meet the challenge and be ahead of the deadline will ensure that all of our customers will have a smooth transition, avoid penalties and be able to say, “We are GHS prepared.” —Randall Wemmer |
When we launched our original headlight restoration kit using our PowerBall technology, it contained hand sanding pads. Our new NuLens Headlight Renewal Kit mechanizes both the sanding and polishing steps while still using the PowerBall. Consumers have demanded ease of use and better results, especially on the larger, more modern lenses developed in recent years. Consumers also want multiple-use products and increased do-it-yourself proficiency. They’ve always trended towards products that work faster and easier and are affordable. Spray waxes have grown in popularity, offering an easy way to help lengthen the amount of time between traditional waxing. Emerging from a down economy could provide consumer confidence and increased sales opportunities, but regulatory and environmental constraints remain significant challenges. —Craig Burnett | |
This easy-to-use, one-step product uses nanotechnology and microscopic particles to safely clean, restore paint, remove light scratches and impart a deep, wet-look hine. |
All-purpose cleaner that can be used on anything from wheel wells to upholstery. Very strong when it needs to be yet also gentle when called upon. Easy and ready to use. | |
Magic Bullet Emission Buster is an eco-friendly fuel treatment that is suitable for use in all diesel and gasoline engines. Using it reduces emissions and therefore environmental impact by up to 25%. It optimizes O2 sensor operation and increases catalytic converter efficiency. 100% hydrocarbon based, it contains no chemicals and is non-toxic. |
Air Couture’s long-lasting air fresheners are made from the finest oils and are exclusively designed to suit the home, workspace and vehicle. The unique scents offered by Air Couture help neutralize cigarette, leather and other unpleasant odors and will fill the air with the aroma of couture fragrances. | |
Aries Automotive The Glo Step 6-in. oval is enhanced with electroluminescent lights that set off a glow when operating the inner dome light. The light sits within the five-step pad and is impervious to moisture, pressure and temperature. It offers additional safety when passengers enter a truck or SUV at night. It is available in stainless steel and black aluminum in three board sizes. |
The Pinnacle Black Label interior kit includes Hide-Soft leather cleaner, Hide-Soft leather conditioner and leather and vinyl coating. Formulated using the latest advancements in surface-care technology, all kit ingredients are hyper-concentrated. The sealant product gives great UV protection, and the protective properties last for months. | |
New Built Ford Tough and Ram license plates. Made in the U.S.A. and come complete with mounting hardware, anti-theft screw caps and a lifetime warranty. |
A gentle, effective cleaner and iron remover; safe on bodywork and all types of painted, alloy, anodized, clearcoated, chrome, aluminum and stainless-steel wheels. | |
Complete software solution. Window tint/paint protection patterns. Buy once, own forever. Vehicle graphics. Lettering. ogos. And more! | Blizzerator LLC
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The BuffPro buffer revolutionizes the manner in which surfaces are buffed and polished and creates better efficiency for its users by reducing buffing time by 50%. |
Made in the U.S.A., CalTrend pet seat covers provide protection from pet paws and claws. They offer comfort with minimal wear and tear. | |
CalTrend Made in the U.S.A., CalTrend carbon-fiber seat covers provide a luxuriously soft feel with a cool, carbon-fiber detailed look while protecting the original upholstery. |
When you can’t afford to lose it, this snug and stretchy glove slips on a finger and turns it into a professional tool. The powerful magnet at the fingertip allows the user to hold and retrieve any small metal object with precise control. Use it to start a variety of ferrous fasteners in tight-fitting or difficult-to-reach places. | |
Putting on the glitz just got more affordable. Car Candy Inc. offers best pricing for popular bling crystal and carbon-fiber license-plate frames. Just launched: 20+ brand-new bling designs with fresh sparkling colors, contemporary designs and trendy new animal prints plus 100% genuine carbon-fiber license frames in unique colors. |
Want the best showroom finish for a car in a fraction of the time? Let the Demon | |
Easy to use and guarantees a sparkling dashboard every time. Also suitable for use on PVC, plastic, leather, wood and most synthetic materials in the car or around the home. Use Flash Dash on the exterior of a car to put a shine on all molded PVC and plastic bumpers, side mirrors, mud flaps, spoilers, etc. |
Triplewax Liquid Gold self-drying car wash is the next generation of car washing. The revolutionary Liquid Gold polymer system effortlessly cuts through all types of dirt and grime. After rinsing, the water dries and evaporates with an iridescent effect, leaving a perfect showroom shine with no water spots or streaks. | |
Deco-Form offers a beautifully embossed, raised design that takes a logo to a new level of sophistication. It can simulate formed chrome, stainless steel or an injection-molded piece—but with less-expensive tooling. Exciting colors and textures set Deco-Form apart and can help set users apart from their competition. Automotive-grade durability. |
Rhinestone decals are made to withstand the car wash, extreme heat and cold. Perfect on the exterior windows of cars, laptops, lockers, mirrors, plastic, wood, paper and so much more. Custom designs available. | |
We see opportunities in continuing to offer safe, water-based products that replace solvents and acids in our arena. With environmental laws changing and health concerns ever increasing, this is an opportunity for companies such as Workshop Hero to offer the consumer a better way to work. Our Metal Rescue water-based, non-acidic rust remover is noteworthy because rust has been a problem solved only by either sand blasting or using acids since the beginning of time. Both of those methods are hazardous to people, metal surfaces and the environment. Safe water-based products like Metal Rescue allow consumers to do things they couldn’t have done in the past because of disposal problems and safety. We’ve also seen a trend toward more of retro feel and look to things. Consumers want products that work well mechanically but have that vintage, cool feel. Of course, the Internet has affected so many things, including distribution, making it a more competitive market in terms of prices and availability. When people can shop online and find better prices than they can locally, it puts a strain on traditional retailers. —David Yancho |
With the advancement of matte finishes being offered by manufacturers and custom builders, professionals and enthusiasts are searching for miracle products to detail, restore and protect matte paint and clears. We plan to introduce a surprise matte product at the 2014 SEMA Show to accompany our popular Wipe Down Matte The increased public awareness and demand for environmentally responsible products have brought a lot of new formulations for safer cleaners and paint-care products. We’ve always been ahead of the curve in this area. But the biggest hurdle for chemical manufacturers and distributors is clearly ever-increasing government compliance demands, not only requiring complete reformulations but eliminating or limiting the use of some ingredients. The good side, along with the struggle, is the development of many better and safer products. —John Schlumpberger | |
3M
PN: 9VR-12
Clerigan’s
Rupes Spa
708-805-0383
Fender Gripper Inc.
PN: JSK109
KoossPad
514-324-3274
Fuel Direct
Laid-Back
Luxwood Auto Trim Design Inc.
No-Choke LLC
Luxwood Auto Trim Design Inc.
Pressure On Demand
Sonax
Consumers don’t fully understand how a virtually invisible product can add years to the life of their vehicles’ paint, especially on the most vulnerable areas on the car. 3M wants to help raise consumer awareness of the value of keeping their vehicles looking newer longer with paint-protection film.
With most of our country and numerous other countries dealing with droughts, our waterless car wash can allow detailers, dealerships and others to work to stop the waste of water and the harmful chemicals associated with car cleaning. Perhaps our biggest hurdle is just getting beyond the stigma of “waterless car wash scratches.” New technology scares some, but we’re excited by the opportunity to educate new clients to waterless car washing.
Consumers are now more committed to using environmentally friendly products, and Hi-Lustre continues to invest into research and development to provide high-performance products balanced with responsible environmental management. Our Nano Carnauba Spray Wax has no solvents or powders, and its VOC is 0.09%. It reduces waxing time by 75%, and it really works. It was honored with an International Global Media Award at the 2012 SEMA Show.
The headlight restoration market barely existed a few years ago, but it has become very important to consumers in terms of safety, appearance and money savings over purchasing new lenses. 
Sea-Shield
Sonax
Magic Bullet Advanced Fuel Treatment
Air Couture Inc.
PN: S2875
Autogeek.net
Au-tomotive Gold Inc.
Britemax
Auto Trim Software & Supplies
The Blizzerator Basic is an ergonomically designed, three-in-one ice scraper, snow brush and squeegee that oblizzerates winter. Featuring dual angles of attack, a rotating brush head, a squeegee cover that doubles as a brush, protective casing, three extendable lengths and a detachable scraper. Finally, winter has met its match.
BuffPro
CalTrend
Trucks, Vans and SUVs
The Busted Knuckle Garage
Car Candy Inc.
CarPlan/Tetrosyl
CarPlan/Tetrosyl
CarPlan/Tetrosyl
Dec-O-Art Inc.
Crystal Heiress LLC
Consumers are looking for better-performing polishing and rubbing compounds that can cut faster and finish better. Our Smart Abrasive Technology (SAT) adjusts to the user’s selection of buffing pad. Apply our Wizards Mystic Cut with a cutting pad, and it cuts. The same product will polish and finish when applied with respective pad selections. This trend is motivated by the increasing difficulty of removing scratches from low-VOC, high-solid and super-high-solid clears. | View More than 175 Restyling & Care Care New Products and Expert Comments from the 2014 SEMA Show on PDF |
SEMA research indicates that more than a third of automotive accessory enthusiasts are likely to own a powersports vehicle. That means the powersports market offers great crossover potential for aftermarket businesses catering to other specialty-equipment segments. So what’s one of the hottest trends in the powersports arena?
“We will continue to see this market growing and customization along with it,” said Henk Van Dongen, director of marketing for Omix-ADA, which has recently begun expanding its off-road product lines into the UTV segment. “I believe it is extremely important to understand your customer base and how they are spending their disposable income. Having a customer in your retail outlet and offering more products that cross over into another hobby, such as UTVs, makes sense. They are already used to your service levels and expanding the offerings allows the retailer to gain share of wallet.”
“Naturally, multipurpose UTV owners seek ultimate versatility,” says the SEMA report. “Multipurpose is the largest segment of UTVs, with a broad spectrum of models to choose from.” 
