The Fusion-inspired facelift for the lesser Foci have already been revealed, but the shooters at KGP Photography have a new batch of shots of the overhauled ’15 Focus ST's front fascia. Behind the camouflage, there are signs of a more aggressive nose for the new ST, with some new angular flares intermingling beneath a version of Ford's corporate grille. The new face, which also shows a new chiseled and stepped chin spoiler design, will get a little more edge compared to the current ST's front fascia.

The prototype is also disguised at the rear, but those changes are expected to be closely related to the facelift already revealed. The ST's central rear exhaust is changed to a single pipe on this prototype, although this treatment is there most likely for simple testing reasons. Exhaust tips similar to the current ST are expected.

The nose on this Focus ST prototype likely provides something of a preview of the frontal treatment that will be applied to an even hotter Focus variant—the long-awaited Focus RS. While the RS has always been forbidden fruit for U.S. customers, we have heard many insider reports that the next Focus RS is expected to reach American showrooms in much the same state of tune given to the European market.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

The Fusion-inspired facelift for the lesser Foci have already been revealed, but the shooters at KGP Photography have a new batch of shots of the overhauled ’15 Focus ST's front fascia. Behind the camouflage, there are signs of a more aggressive nose for the new ST, with some new angular flares intermingling beneath a version of Ford's corporate grille. The new face, which also shows a new chiseled and stepped chin spoiler design, will get a little more edge compared to the current ST's front fascia.

The prototype is also disguised at the rear, but those changes are expected to be closely related to the facelift already revealed. The ST's central rear exhaust is changed to a single pipe on this prototype, although this treatment is there most likely for simple testing reasons. Exhaust tips similar to the current ST are expected.

The nose on this Focus ST prototype likely provides something of a preview of the frontal treatment that will be applied to an even hotter Focus variant—the long-awaited Focus RS. While the RS has always been forbidden fruit for U.S. customers, we have heard many insider reports that the next Focus RS is expected to reach American showrooms in much the same state of tune given to the European market.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

By SEMA Editors

The Jeep and Mopar brands have teamed to develop a variety of vehicles that are debuting this week at the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. Now in its 48th year, thousands of off-road enthusiasts are attending the Easter Jeep Safari looking to enjoy a week of serious off-roading on some of the country’s most renowned trails.

“We head to Moab and the Easter Jeep Safari with six new vehicles we know Jeep enthusiasts will truly appreciate—including our first two new Jeep Cherokee models built specifically for this important event,” said Mike Manley, president and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.

Jeep and Mopar used production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts on this year’s collection of concept vehicles. Jeep Performance Parts are specifically designed, built and quality-tested to meet strict Jeep specifications, 4x4 capability, craftsmanship and versatility.

“This year, we’re showcasing a combination of Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts on our vehicles for off-road enthusiasts to see a variety of customization and personalization options,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO — Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “Since 2002, Jeep and Mopar have teamed to create more than 40 unique concept vehicles for enthusiasts who attend the popular Easter Jeep Safari.”

Jeep Wrangler Level Red

	Jeep Wrangler Level Red

The Wrangler Level Red, which refers to the highest level of difficulty an off-road trail can be designated, rides high on a Jeep Performance Parts 2-in. lift kit. Jeep Performance Parts Dana 44 crate axles on the front and rear feature a 4:10 ratio. The Jeep Performance Parts Rock-Trac transfer case provides a 4:1 low range to make navigating obstacles much easier. The 3.6L engine with a six-speed manual transmission is improved through a cold-air intake and low-restriction exhaust system. Wrangler Level Red’s crawl ratio is 73:1.

The Pitch Black exterior of Wrangler Level Red is decorated by a TorRed prototype graphic stripe that runs along the top of the hood near the bottom of the windshield and halfway down the body sides. The front and rear of the vehicle are well-guarded by “Rubicon 10th Anniversary” bumpers, with prototype black “Aero” bumper ends and an under-bumper skid plate providing more protection. Wrangler Level Red rides on prototype 17x8-in. beadlock-capable wheels, accented with TorRed color on the beadlock ring. The wheels carry 35-in. BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires, available through the Mopar Tireworks program.

Jeep Wrangler Level Red is modified with a Mopar half-door kit, and additional exterior upgrades include a prototype Jeep Performance Parts tire carrier, a locking gas cap, a hood prop kit and Jeep Performance Parts rock rails. Wrangler Level Red also sports badges for each of the five trails in Moab recognized by the Jeep brand as “Badge of Honor” trails. (Through the Jeep brand’s Badge of Honor program, Jeep vehicle owners can earn special vehicle badges once they conquer any of more than 30 approved, high-profile trails across the United States.)

The interior of Wrangler Level Red features Tuscany Katzkin leather seats embellished with red stitching, which also is featured on the arm rest. Flame Red color brings alive the seat belt webbing, while HVAC rings are painted with TorRed inserts and roll bar padding in the rear also features red accents. The interior is further upgraded with a gloss black look on the steering wheel spokes and dash grab handle. Additional accessories include a prototype Jeep Cargo Management System (JCMS) with a tow-strap bag and first-aid bag on the rear swing gate, all-weather floor mats, grab handles and a lockable storage bin under the seat.

Jeep Wrangler MOJO

	Jeep Wrangler MOJO

The Jeep Wrangler MOJO (the “OJ” in the name stands for “Orange Jeep”) is geared for the off-road enthusiast who seeks an even tougher vehicle with the functionality to tackle the most extreme trails. A Jeep Performance Parts 2-in. lift provides the clearance to traverse obstacles, with locking Dana 44 front and rear axles and a 4:1 Rock-Trac transfer case adding to Wrangler MOJO’s rock-climbing capabilities. Wrangler MOJO’s crawl ratio is 59:1. The vehicle’s 3.6L V6 engine is augmented with a cold-air intake and low restriction exhaust system.

The Bright Orange exterior of Wrangler MOJO is defended by prototype Jeep Performance Parts “Shorty” bumpers and prototype flat-top fenders, with 37-in. BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires wrapped around prototype beadlock wheels, accented with Mopar Bronze on the beadlock ring. The Mopar “Rubicon X” hood is ornamented by prototype topographical graphics that contain bronze “mapping” accents and flow down to the side panels. Additional trail enhancements include a Jeep Performance Parts “Rubicon X" front bumper, an under-bumper skid plate and a prototype Jeep Performance Parts winch. Jeep Performance Parts rock rails are added to further protect Wrangler MOJO from boulders and rocks on extreme trails.

Prototype LED headlamps and fog lamps help make night trips on the trail easier, and front and rear prototype two-tone half-door kits and a soft top further add to the open-air fun and freedom. A Badge of Honor plate is added to show the trails Wrangler MOJO has mastered, and a prototype Jeep Performance Parts tire carrier gives support to the spare tire. The five Moab “Badge of Honor” badges also appear on Wrangler MOJO.

The interior of Wrangler MOJO features a two-tone instrument panel and console that complement black Katzkin seat covers and provide for simple cleaning. With the carpet removed, rugged all-weather floor mats shield the interior, and a Mopar sunbonnet and roll bar pads are trimmed in a Driftwood sand color, matching Wrangler MOJO’s overall appearance. A Mopar lockable rear cargo tray keeps valuables safe.

Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance

	Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance

Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance speaks to the hard-core enthusiasts who spend every spare minute on the trail and seek the ultimate in power and capability, according to Jeep. Wrangler Maximum Performance is armed with new Jeep Performance Parts-exclusive push-button electric-locking Dana 60 axles at the front and rear, as well as 4.88 gearing and the 4:1 Rock-Trac transfer case to better hurdle any trail impediments. A prototype Jeep Performance Parts 4-in. lift kit also raises the vehicle. Wrangler Maximum Performance boasts a 70:1 crawl ratio.

On the exterior, a prototype Jeep Performance Parts “Stinger” front bumper can handle whatever the terrain dishes out, especially when paired with a front bumper skid plate, Jeep Performance Parts Rubicon rock rails and a prototype flattop fender kit. A Mopar black grille dresses up the front, which also is modified with a prototype Jeep Performance Parts winch, and prototype LED lights mounted to the top of the vehicle to shine bright during nighttime off-road maneuvers. A prototype graphics package signifying the Moab landscape adorns the hood.

The Mopar Blue exterior is linked in appearance to the prototype eight-lug beadlock wheels by the Mopar Blue color on the beadlock ring. Wrangler Maximum Performance rides on 37-in. BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires, with the sturdy hardtop covering full steel doors. The rear of the vehicle receives a prototype tire carrier and a 37-in. spare tire cover featuring the Jeep Performance Parts logo. Wrangler Maximum Performance also sports the five Moab “Badge of Honor” badges.

Mopar Blue is also featured inside, highlighting the HVAC bezels and steering wheel accents. Katzkin leather seats with embroidered Jeep logos feature blue accent stitching, as does the leather armrest. The interior is further enhanced with satin trim on the instrument panel, shift knob and HVAC controls, while the steering wheel spokes and dash grab handles are underscored in black.

Jeep Cherokee Adventurer

	Jeep Cherokee Adventurer

The Jeep Cherokee Adventurer boasts Trailhawk 4x4 capability, including a 48:1 crawl ratio with added utility and cargo convenience for off-road adventures, and a host of Jeep Performance Parts from Mopar.

The tan exterior is accented to the Trailhawk black hood decal. A prototype matte black Mopar roof basket rides on top, with a bungee net holding down cargo. Below, BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires are mounted on prototype 17-in. wheels, embellished with aluminum granite crystal and black pockets.

Jeep Performance Parts rock rails provide formidable off-road defense, and further protection is added courtesy of a two-piece underbody skid plate, a front suspension skid plate, an oil tank skid plate and a two-piece fuel tank skid plate. Red tow hooks adorn the front.

Inside the Cherokee Adventurer, black Katzkin leather seats, with perforated inserts, draw even more attention with maize-embroidered Jeep logos and maize stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, arm rest and shift boot. The HVAC bezels, instrument panel, steering wheel and door switch bezels are upgraded with tan inserts to match the exterior color. The Jeep Cargo Management System is displayed with a Trailhawk bag, and is joined by a location-appropriate prototype Moab off-road bag. Bright door sill guards with the Cherokee logo, all-weather mats and a cargo tray complete the interior Mopar accessories.

Jeep Cherokee Dakar

	Jeep Cherokee Dakar

According to Jeep, the Cherokee Dakar is the most extreme Cherokee ever. The Silver Steel Satin Gloss exterior skin is set off with prototype Flame Red graphics that encircle the window and wrap around the black hood graphic. The Trailhawk 17-in. polished satin clear-coat wheels feature two large Flame Red pockets, with the Cherokee nameplate also changed to a Flame Red hue.

Front-end features are enhanced by two prototype Flame Red inserts on the traditional Jeep seven-slot grille, as well as through a prototype lower fascia trim. Cherokee Dakar is fortified for off-road action, equipped with Jeep Performance Parts rock rails, an oil pan skid plate, front suspension skid plate, two-piece fuel tank and underbody skid plates.

Cherokee Dakar’s wheel openings have been modified in order to accommodate larger 33-in. BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires. The rough-and-ready look rises with a prototype Jeep Performance Parts lift kit. Prototype wider fender flares with riveted bolts give a tougher appearance and also accommodate the wider track and larger tires. A prototype rear fascia allows for an even more aggressive departure angle and enhances the higher ride height. Cherokee Dakar’s crawl ratio is 48:1, and estimated approach and departure angles are 32 and 39 degrees, respectively.

Inside, prototype Katzkin leather black seats with “Machined Gunmetal” inserts are heightened with Header Red stitching, which is also found on the steering wheel, armrest and shift boot. A Flame Red insert accents the entertainment center. Accessories showcased from the Mopar catalog include all-weather floor mats, bright door-sill guards with the Cherokee logo, a cargo tray for storage, and the JCMS with the Trailhawk bag, as well as the prototype Moab off-road bag.

Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel Trail Warrior

	Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel Trail Warrior

The Trail Rated Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel Trail Warrior brings even more capability and convenience, courtesy of a host of Jeep Performance Parts and Mopar accessories.

Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel sits higher, thanks to its Quadra-Lift air suspension. The Mojave Sand exterior color is dressed with Satin Black flourishes on the grille, hood, lower front fascia, door handles, mirror caps, wheel flares and badging. The prototype Mopar roof basket, mounted on production cross rails, provides plenty of space to transport gear and provisions. Prototype 20-in. cast aluminum wheels in satin black roll on All-Terrain BFGoodrich tires. Jeep Performance Parts tow hooks and rock rails are also featured. The Grand Cherokee features a 44:1 crawl ratio.

Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel Trail Warrior’s interior offers a black-and-tan dual tone scheme. Gloss black accents appear on the HVAC bezels, steering wheel, instrument panel and other appointments. Additional Mopar accessories include all-weather floor mats, door sills, lighted Jeep logo sills, a pedal kit and a cargo tray.

The Dave Despain Show Debuts April 25

	Dave Despain will host an in-depth series where he interviews racing's legends, current superstars and rising talent.

Renowned American motorsports journalist and broadcaster Dave Despain will host an in-depth series where he conducts interviews with racing's legends, current superstars and rising talent. Each 30-minute episode of The Dave Despain Show will feature a one-on-one interview with an influential person in motorsports. Despain will delve into the background and history of the stars, and the personal approach to the interviews allows the guest to tell stories and recall memories from their lives and careers.

Innova Electronics Corp. Launches New Website

Innova Electronics Corp. has launched a new site featuring a new design that reflects the company's commitment to the automotive diagnostic-tools market. The site now features product pages for its digital multimeters, electrical testers, mechanical testers, OBD1 tools and timing lights. Company information, technical support and manuals are also included on the website, in addition to repair information, such as a diagnostic trouble code library, tech tips, videos, pre-diagnosis worksheets, a glossary and a repair-shop and parts-store locator.

The site also features information and access to RepairSolutions—a web-based service was created to assist technicians of all levels in quickly diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Subscribers can view, save and e-mail the diagnostic data retrieved from a vehicle’s on-board computer(s) using an Innova diagnostic tool.

Lingenfelter Collection Open House for Charity Set for April 26

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering will open its doors Saturday, April 26, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., for the 2014 Collection Open House to benefit charity.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering will open its doors Saturday, April 26, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., for the 2014 Collection Open House to benefit charity. Lingenfelter is located at 819 Lochlin Drive in Brighton, Michigan. The donations accepted at this year's Collection Open House will benefit Gleaners Community Food Bank, which provides support to a broad population in southeastern Michigan, as well as The Bottomless Toy Chest, which delivers art projects, crafts and interactive games to hospitalized pediatric cancer patients.
 
The Lingenfelter Collection, known as one of the most impressive car collections in the country, features more than 200 vehicles, including historically significant Corvettes, musclecars and late-model exotic vehicles that have been secured since 1980 by Ken Lingenfelter, CEO/owner of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering. Ken and Mike Copeland, vice president and general manager of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, will be on hand to answer questions about Lingenfelter vehicles, products and services. Much of the Lingenfelter Collection can be viewed online at www.LingenfelterCollection.com. Additional information is available by calling 248-486-5342.

ESAB Announces Colfax's Acquisition of Victor Technologies Holdings

ESAB, a member of the Colfax group of companies, announced that Colfax Corp. has completed the acquisition of Victor Technologies Holdings Inc. Victor is a pre-eminent global manufacturer of cutting, gas-control and specialty-welding solutions with many recognized brands around the globe. The acquisition expands ESAB's product portfolio into new segments and applications and brings together two leading organizations with world-class products, technologies and R&D.

Ken Konopa, senior vice president of marketing and engineering for ESAB, commented: “The products, technology and expertise Victor brings to our portfolio, when combined with ESAB’s solutions, strengthens our value to customers globally. It is an exciting combination and an excellent strategic fit. We anticipate a seamless integration experience for our customers, channel partners and associates.”

Axalta Helps Bring Race Day to Jeff Gordon Pediatric Treatment Room

	An Axalta Racing theme now brightens the walls of the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation's treatment room at the Children's Blood and Cancer Center, part of Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas.

The ribbon cutting in early April at the unveiling of the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation's treatment room at the Children's Blood and Cancer Center, part of Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, revealed an Axalta Racing theme.

An action shot of the No. 24 pit crew graces a large wall of the treatment room from floor to ceiling. The picture epitomizes teamwork, energy and strength, and the cabinetry has elements that replicate Gordon's team's toolboxes. The funds to sponsor the room were raised by volunteers from the Austin Chapter of the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation Promise Circle, with a significant contribution made by the Austin office of CBRE Group Inc. The Promise Circle members work in their communities with leading cancer treatment centers and serve as advocates for children with cancer to provide support services to the children and their families.

"We couldn't be more thrilled with how the room turned out. We support Jeff Gordon on the track when he races each weekend and off the track with the wonderful work his foundation does," says Lisa Miree-Luke, Axalta Corporate Affairs Leader for North America. "We hope the amazing children who spend time here will enjoy their surroundings."

Warren Oil Company Inc. Expands Plant, Creates Warren Unilube Inc.

Warren Oil Company Inc. announced the expansion of the West Memphis, Arkansas, plant. Warren Unilube Inc.—a new grease manufacturing and packaging plant at this location—has successfully completed trial runs and has begun full production. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, the plant is initially focusing on Lithium, Lithium complex, anhydrous calcium and calcium sulfonate greases.

The new facility has an annual capacity of 10 million lbs. with the ability to expand with future demand. Meeting customer needs is top priority. An estimated 50% of the plant capacity has been dedicated to private label packaging, ensuring a high-quality product packaged exclusively for the customer. The West Memphis, Arkansas location, Warren Unilube Inc., is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company. This facility will only enhance Warren Oil Company, Inc.’s ability to provide the highest-quality products with superior value for customers.

“Black Bow Tie” Captures Del Mar d’Elegance Crown

Pictured above is Wes and Vivian Rydell’s “Black Bow Tie”—winner of the Goodguys 2014 March Performance Street Rod d’Elegance award.

Wes and Vivian Rydell’s “Black Bow Tie” took home the Goodguys 2014 March Performance Street Rod d’Elegance award during last weekend’s Goodguys 14th Meguiar’s Del Mar Nationals. The rare 1935 Chevy Standard Phaeton (one of 217 ever made) burst on the scene back in January when it won America’s Most Beautiful Roadster in Pomona.

Fabricated, assembled, finished, upholstered and painted a two-tone maroon and black by Rad Rides by Troy, the Phaeton got its start 12 years ago at Rydell’s Toy Shop in Grand Forks, North Dakota, under the watchful eye of craftsman Doug Pederson. Working off of a Foose Design, Pederson modified a Roadster Shop chassis and did a substantial amount of metal work on the body before shipping the car to Rad Rides by Troy, where they spent nearly a year finishing the car in preparation for the 2014 show season.

The body was lengthened 2 in. and features a 3-in. longer-than-stock wheelbase. The shortened grill was reclined by “pulling out” the bottom and the windshield posts have been laid back 2.5 in. It rides on Heidt’s IFS and IRS suspension. The engine is a 383 Chevy Ram Jet with EFI, modified to look like it features original 1957 Rochester injection. Goodguys members and enthusiasts will surely remember Rydell’s past Foose-designed cars including the “Grand Master” ’35 Chevy (2002 Ridler winner and Goodguys Street Rod of the Year) as well as his Goodguys 2007 Custom Rod of the Year-winning ’54 Chevy Bel Air.
 

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org. 

By Jason Catullo

	SEMA's new Media Cove is designed with the lighting, space and equipment needed to produce visually spectacular product and vehicle images for promotion and marketing.

The SEMA Garage – Industry Innovations Center has a new exciting feature now available to SEMA members—a fully equipped media cove for video and photo shoots of products and full vehicles. The SEMA Garage is located next to the association's headquarters in Diamond Bar, California.

The cove was designed with the lighting, space and equipment needed to provide members with a purpose-built location to produce visually spectacular images of their products and vehicles for promotion and marketing. It was equipped with the assistance of professional photographer Randy Lorentzen, who helped SEMA go all out in the planning and restructuring of the garage to bring the state-of-the-art cove to life.

"We optimized it to 110%. We've got as great as a space we could possibly have," said Lorentzen. "The cove is set up so that not only a professional photographer like me can come in and make the best possible use of it, but also so that an average person with minor knowledge of his or her camera can come in and look like a hero."

With construction of the media cove complete, members can go from developing, prototyping and testing products to photography and packaging, all in one industry-built facility.

In addition to the cove, the SEMA Garage provides other services and tools designed for product development, fitment, research and more. In fact, the SEMA Garage serves as the main location for most of SEMA’s Measuring Sessions—which provide manufacturers access to upcoming vehicles, most often, before they hit dealerships. Now, with the opening of the media cove, members can go from developing, prototyping and testing products to photography and packaging, all in one industry-built facility.

With the completion of the cove, the garage is now comprised of four cells: one is a complete emissions-certification lab and chassis dyno (via SEMA's partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California; cell two is a the garage that includes a lift and a full array of tools; cell three is the media cove; and cell four is a large training room and welcome center.

With the combination of the SEMA Garage and Tech Transfer program, the entire product-development process is now more affordable and efficient.

SEMA members are encouraged to take advantage of the SEMA Garage for product development, fitment, photography, research and more. For more information about the facility, including upcoming events and to schedule time in the Media Cove, contact Mike Spagnola at mikes@sema.org.  

By Jason Catullo

	SEMA's new Media Cove is designed with the lighting, space and equipment needed to produce visually spectacular product and vehicle images for promotion and marketing.

The SEMA Garage – Industry Innovations Center has a new exciting feature now available to SEMA members—a fully equipped media cove for video and photo shoots of products and full vehicles. The SEMA Garage is located next to the association's headquarters in Diamond Bar, California.

The cove was designed with the lighting, space and equipment needed to provide members with a purpose-built location to produce visually spectacular images of their products and vehicles for promotion and marketing. It was equipped with the assistance of professional photographer Randy Lorentzen, who helped SEMA go all out in the planning and restructuring of the garage to bring the state-of-the-art cove to life.

"We optimized it to 110%. We've got as great as a space we could possibly have," said Lorentzen. "The cove is set up so that not only a professional photographer like me can come in and make the best possible use of it, but also so that an average person with minor knowledge of his or her camera can come in and look like a hero."

With construction of the media cove complete, members can go from developing, prototyping and testing products to photography and packaging, all in one industry-built facility.

In addition to the cove, the SEMA Garage provides other services and tools designed for product development, fitment, research and more. In fact, the SEMA Garage serves as the main location for most of SEMA’s Measuring Sessions—which provide manufacturers access to upcoming vehicles, most often, before they hit dealerships. Now, with the opening of the media cove, members can go from developing, prototyping and testing products to photography and packaging, all in one industry-built facility.

With the completion of the cove, the garage is now comprised of four cells: one is a complete emissions-certification lab and chassis dyno (via SEMA's partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California; cell two is a the garage that includes a lift and a full array of tools; cell three is the media cove; and cell four is a large training room and welcome center.

With the combination of the SEMA Garage and Tech Transfer program, the entire product-development process is now more affordable and efficient.

SEMA members are encouraged to take advantage of the SEMA Garage for product development, fitment, photography, research and more. For more information about the facility, including upcoming events and to schedule time in the Media Cove, contact Mike Spagnola at mikes@sema.org.  

By Jason Catullo

	SEMA's new Media Cove is designed with the lighting, space and equipment needed to produce visually spectacular product and vehicle images for promotion and marketing.

The SEMA Garage – Industry Innovations Center has a new exciting feature now available to SEMA members—a fully equipped media cove for video and photo shoots of products and full vehicles. The SEMA Garage is located next to the association's headquarters in Diamond Bar, California.

The cove was designed with the lighting, space and equipment needed to provide members with a purpose-built location to produce visually spectacular images of their products and vehicles for promotion and marketing. It was equipped with the assistance of professional photographer Randy Lorentzen, who helped SEMA go all out in the planning and restructuring of the garage to bring the state-of-the-art cove to life.

"We optimized it to 110%. We've got as great as a space we could possibly have," said Lorentzen. "The cove is set up so that not only a professional photographer like me can come in and make the best possible use of it, but also so that an average person with minor knowledge of his or her camera can come in and look like a hero."

With construction of the media cove complete, members can go from developing, prototyping and testing products to photography and packaging, all in one industry-built facility.

In addition to the cove, the SEMA Garage provides other services and tools designed for product development, fitment, research and more. In fact, the SEMA Garage serves as the main location for most of SEMA’s Measuring Sessions—which provide manufacturers access to upcoming vehicles, most often, before they hit dealerships. Now, with the opening of the media cove, members can go from developing, prototyping and testing products to photography and packaging, all in one industry-built facility.

With the completion of the cove, the garage is now comprised of four cells: one is a complete emissions-certification lab and chassis dyno (via SEMA's partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California; cell two is a the garage that includes a lift and a full array of tools; cell three is the media cove; and cell four is a large training room and welcome center.

With the combination of the SEMA Garage and Tech Transfer program, the entire product-development process is now more affordable and efficient.

SEMA members are encouraged to take advantage of the SEMA Garage for product development, fitment, photography, research and more. For more information about the facility, including upcoming events and to schedule time in the Media Cove, contact Mike Spagnola at mikes@sema.org.  

	Companies interested in building a Hyundai-based project vehicle for the 2014 SEMA Show are required to submit proposals by April 25.

Companies planning to build a Hyundai-based project vehicle for the 2014 SEMA Show—November 4–7, in Las Vegas—must submit their project-vehicle proposals to Hyundai by April 25. Winning bids will be announced May 17.

Hyundai’s SEMA Show Program will focus on tuners and suppliers dedicated to creating exciting, aspirational vehicle modifications for the performance market. Last year, Hyundai's booth displayed two tuner-modified vehicles that earned spots in Edmund’s Top Ten Cars of the 2013 SEMA Show.

The Hyundai booth will focus on three models for 2014:

• Genesis Sedan
• Sonata Sedan
• Genesis Coupe

Hyundai encourages the modification and display of any of its vehicles in other booths and approved vehicle locations throughout the Show. Both production and pre-production vehicles are available for modification. Support for the builds is included in the request for proposal (RFP) as are other program details. Photography of the all-new Sonata will be released after the New York Auto Show reveal.

SEMA exhibitors who have worked with OEMs in the past and are interested in working with Hyundai are encouraged to contact Mike Nino (MNino@hmausa.com) to discuss potential proposals.