By SEMA Editors

Exhibitors of the 2023 SEMA Show are invited to expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list.

The list, which will be updated in SEMA News, features product offers and contact information from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors looking to collaborate with builders. 

Builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly. With each project vehicle required to be supported by a current 2023 SEMA Show exhibitor, all product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2023 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form.

Exhibitors: Each submission will appear on a first-come, first-served basis. As participation increases, all submissions will also be archived on SEMAShow.com.

Note: For verification purposes, the Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2023 SEMA Show.

View the 2023 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list.

By Ashley Reyes

Women have been breaking barriers and making significant strides in the traditionally male-dominated automotive aftermarket industry; however, achieving true equality and inclusivity in the field still requires a collective effort from both men and women.

SEMA members are invited to the first session of the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Male Ally Webinar Series, "What Does a Male Ally Look Like?" on Tuesday, June 27, at 12:00 p.m. PDT to learn what a male ally is, why it's important and how it's accomplished.

Wade Kawasaki, partner at Legendary Companies, Frank Vasquez of KW Suspensions, Tara Thompson of Dixie 4 Wheel Drive and Rachel Speir of RS Marqueting will share their experiences with male allyship, resources to help raise male allyship awareness, and facilitation and ways to empower more people to be allies for females in the industry.

Attendees will walk away knowing the general definition of what a male ally is and key characteristics that could be helpful when encountering a situation that requires one. Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

Automotive restylers can gain recognition and showcase their talents in front of thousands of buyers at the 2023 SEMA Show by entering to compete in the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Cup Challenge.

The PRO Cup Challenge is designed to encourage the customization of new-model vehicles and raise awareness of the benefits of vehicle accessorization to the general public. Through the competition, restylers develop an accessory package that is profitable and easy to replicate. To inspire mainstream consumers, dealers and restylers to customize their vehicles, the vehicle package must have a maximum MSRP price of $15,000, maximum labor hours of 40 hours per package installed, and a wholesale cost of no more than $12,500 to the dealer.

"The PRO Cup Challenge provides the ultimate platform for restylers to demonstrate their expertise and innovation in front of the industry," said SEMA PRO Director Denise Waddingham. "Many dealerships want to add appeal to their vehicle inventory but don't know the best accessories that meet the needs and desires of their customers. Competing in the PRO Cup Challenge helps restylers showcase how their talents can help dealerships increase their sales, and it highlights how vehicles can be transformed in a way that is both practical and affordable."

Six competitors will be selected to compete and have their vehicles transported to the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, where it will be featured in the PRO booth in the West Hall. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge-winning vehicle based on mass appeal, ease to replicate and potential profitability. SEMA Showgoers will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite accessory package and recognize it with the People's Choice Award.

Applications are due Friday, August 11. Don't miss your chance to solidify your reputation as a top-tier restyler in the automotive industry. Submit your PRO Cup Challenge application today.

By Juan Torres

Applications for SEMA Show exhibitors to be included in the official 2023 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule are now available.

Exhibitors who have breaking news announcements that will be of interest to a large number of media can utilize press conferences during the 2023 SEMA Show. Because media are not required or obligated to attend press conferences, however, many exhibitors also opt to utilize other strategies and tools for reaching media at the SEMA Show.

Exhibitors that do want to be included in the official SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule are required to submit an application before the deadline of Friday, August 4. Please use this link to submit a press conference application.

After submitting an application, exhibitors should receive an automatic email confirming that the application was received. Those who do not receive the automatic email may have experienced a technical problem and are encouraged to email pr@sema.org for assistance.

By the SEMA D.C. Office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the SEMA-supported "Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023". If enacted into law, H.R. 277 would require Congress to approve any regulation with an estimated annual economic impact of $100 million or more before it could take effect. 

The REINS Act would reassert Congress' legislative authority and prevent excessive overreach by the executive branch in the federal rulemaking process. It would require every new "major rule" proposed by federal agencies to be approved by both the House and Senate before going into effect. The bill would also preserve Congress' authority to disapprove of a "nonmajor rule" through a joint resolution. 

The REINS Act defines a "major rule" as any federal rule or regulation that may result in: 

• An annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more.
• A major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, government industries, government agencies or geographic regions.
• Significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. 

SEMA applauds the efforts of Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL), the lead sponsor of the REINS Act, and House Leadership for passing the bill. It is important that Congress can approve or strike down economically significant rulemakings from the Executive Branch before the rules can take effect.  

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.

By the SEMA D.C. Office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the SEMA-supported "Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023". If enacted into law, H.R. 277 would require Congress to approve any regulation with an estimated annual economic impact of $100 million or more before it could take effect. 

The REINS Act would reassert Congress' legislative authority and prevent excessive overreach by the executive branch in the federal rulemaking process. It would require every new "major rule" proposed by federal agencies to be approved by both the House and Senate before going into effect. The bill would also preserve Congress' authority to disapprove of a "nonmajor rule" through a joint resolution. 

The REINS Act defines a "major rule" as any federal rule or regulation that may result in: 

• An annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more.
• A major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, government industries, government agencies or geographic regions.
• Significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. 

SEMA applauds the efforts of Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL), the lead sponsor of the REINS Act, and House Leadership for passing the bill. It is important that Congress can approve or strike down economically significant rulemakings from the Executive Branch before the rules can take effect.  

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.

By the SEMA D.C. Office

The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) has designated a SEMA-sponsored bill (SB 301) to create a financial rebate program for converting gas- and diesel-powered motor vehicles into zero-emissions-vehicles (ZEVs) as a "job creator." Authored by California Senator Anthony Portantino, the legislation will allow California to support small businesses and maintain its rich car culture while assisting consumers that want to convert their vehicles to cleaner engines.

SEMA is sponsoring the legislation, embracing the innovation of the auto industry as it works to make ZEV ownership more accessible following a similar bill introduced last year that passed in the Assembly with zero opposition. 

California has multiple programs, including the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP) and the Clean Cars for All Program, to promote the purchase of new ZEVs. However, none of these programs assist with ZEV conversions of gas-powered vehicles that started their life with an internal-combustion engine (ICE). 

SEMA encourages its members and enthusiasts in California to contact their lawmakers in support of SB 301. 

For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

By the SEMA D.C. Office

The recent Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) California Rally united industry leaders and lawmakers in Sacramento to address pressing issues affecting the automotive aftermarket industry. Assemblywoman Marie Waldron, Senator Bob Archuleta and Senator Josh Newman took center stage as key speakers during the event.

Assemblywoman Marie Waldron

Assemblywoman Marie Waldron--whose '39 Ford Pickup was featured at the 2022 SEMA Show--delivered an engaging address during the Rally's dinner event. Representing the 75th Assembly District, Assemblywoman Waldron shared her comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Her insights emphasized the importance of cultivating a business-friendly environment, stimulating job creation and fostering sustainable growth for California's aftermarket industry.

Senator Bob Archuleta

At the Rally's luncheon, participants had the privilege of hearing from Sen. Archuleta, a distinguished lawmaker known for his dedication to the state. As an influential member of the California State Senate, Sen. Archuleta enlightened the audience with his perspectives on key legislative initiatives and policies affecting the industry.

Senator Josh Newman

Notably, Sen. Newman, SEMA's 2022 Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year, also attended the Rally's dinner event. His presence exemplified the commitment of California's lawmakers to engage with the automotive industry and work collaboratively towards mutual goals.

The SEMA California Rally provided a platform for industry professionals, SEMA member companies and lawmakers to come together and discuss vital topics such as new vehicle technologies, manufacturing tax incentives and streamlining regulatory processes. The presence and contributions of Assemblywoman Waldron and Senators Archuleta and Newman added immense value to the event, offering a firsthand understanding of the legislative landscape and encouraging collaborative efforts to support the growth and success of the automotive aftermarket industry. 

For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

The most recent SEMA Launch Pad, the automotive aftermarket industry's ultimate product-pitching competition that has propelled inventors and entrepreneurs to successful, thriving businesses since 2013, will be re-aired nationwide on the FYI Network on Sunday, June 25 at 8:00 p.m. PDT.

If you missed the History Channel premiere in April, this is an excellent opportunity to watch the 2022 competition. Viewers will get a chance to see the action as the five finalists make their way to Las Vegas, where they pitch their products and ideas in front of a live crowd at the world-renowned SEMA Show to a panel of judges featuring industry experts and icons that included Chip Foose of Foose Design, Jared Hare of Addictive Desert Designs, Myles Kovacs of DUB and Alex Parker of Redline Detection.

With a grand prize valued at $92,000, including $75,000 in cash, the competitors give it their all and hold nothing back.

By Ashley Reyes

The specialty-equipment market showed positive results in 2022 with an overall market growth of 2% and reaching $51.8 billion in sales, according to the new "2023 SEMA Market Report." This continues a decade of growth for the industry, even among recent economic turmoil created by the pandemic.

While the growth percentage was slightly down from the industry's typical annual rate of 4% to 5%, the slowing was expected given current economic challenges. SEMA estimates that sales growth will remain fairly flat in 2023, before ramping back up towards the industry's historical growth trend in 2024.

"Even as economic uncertainty looms, particularly around inflation, consumers are passionate about customizing and continue to buy from our industry," said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. "This report provides new and relevant findings that businesses can use to better connect with their customers, find areas of opportunity and drive their business." 

Available for download at sema.org/research, the "2023 SEMA Market Report" provides a comprehensive review of the automotive specialty-equipment market in 2022 and includes new data on the U.S. market size, consumer profiling and industry trends that can help companies make more informed business decisions.  

Key findings from the report include:  

• Pickup accessorization remains the biggest segment for the industry, topping $15 billion in sales. 
• The CUV accessory market continues to grow, reaching 14% of specialty-equipment sales in 2022. 
• Younger people continue to be the most likely to accessorize and perform more upgrades; 50% of those modifying their vehicles are under the age of 40.
• 50% of accessorizers own a powersports or recreational vehicle, opening up cross-selling opportunities.
• More than 80% of companies expect their sales to stay the same or grow in 2023. 

SEMA members can download the report for free at sema.org/research. Discover key findings in the report during the upcoming "SEMA Market Update" webinar on Wednesday, June 21. Register for the webinar here.