By SEMA Editors

	The 2014 Product Development Expo is designed to expose and educate the industry on the latest product development tools, technologies and resources available through SEMA and the industry.

The one-day event is designed to expose and educate the industry on the latest product development tools, technologies and resources available through SEMA and the industry. Guests will get an insider’s tour of the new garage and witness live demonstrations on tools and resources, including:

• Custom scanning
• Installation Center
• Media Center
• 3D printing and rapid prototyping
• Emissions lab and dyno services

The 2014 Product Development Expo will also feature several timely and relevant presentations, including:

• SEMA-Clemson Performance Product Development, presented by John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology; Dr. Paul Venhovens, BMW endowed chair in automotive systems integration, CU-ICAR; and Stuart Reed, chairman, transportation design, Art Center College of Design.

• Connected Vehicle Technology and Automotive Apps Opportunities, moderated by John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology; guest speakers: Danny Shapiro, director of automotive, NVIDIA; Jake Sigal, CEO and co-founder of Livio; Todd Petersen, chief innovation officer, MSD Performance; Ford OpenXC: John Ellis, Global Technologies, and head of the Ford Developer Program.

In addition, the Expo will highlight emissions testing, regulations and best practices, and feature a closing networking reception. For more details and to pre-register, please contact SEMA Education Director Zane Clark at 909-978-6743.

By SEMA Editors

	The 2014 Product Development Expo is designed to expose and educate the industry on the latest product development tools, technologies and resources available through SEMA and the industry.

The one-day event is designed to expose and educate the industry on the latest product development tools, technologies and resources available through SEMA and the industry. Guests will get an insider’s tour of the new garage and witness live demonstrations on tools and resources, including:

• Custom scanning
• Installation Center
• Media Center
• 3D printing and rapid prototyping
• Emissions lab and dyno services

The 2014 Product Development Expo will also feature several timely and relevant presentations, including:

• SEMA-Clemson Performance Product Development, presented by John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology; Dr. Paul Venhovens, BMW endowed chair in automotive systems integration, CU-ICAR; and Stuart Reed, chairman, transportation design, Art Center College of Design.

• Connected Vehicle Technology and Automotive Apps Opportunities, moderated by John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology; guest speakers: Danny Shapiro, director of automotive, NVIDIA; Jake Sigal, CEO and co-founder of Livio; Todd Petersen, chief innovation officer, MSD Performance; Ford OpenXC: John Ellis, Global Technologies, and head of the Ford Developer Program.

In addition, the Expo will highlight emissions testing, regulations and best practices, and feature a closing networking reception. For more details and to pre-register, please contact SEMA Education Director Zane Clark at 909-978-6743.

KGP Photography's man in Italy has snagged a new batch of highly detailed photos of a production-spec prototype for the new baby Jeep. The new, close-up shots provide 100% confirmation that this is, in fact, the new global, entry-level Jeep, while giving the best look yet at some of the mini-SUV's design cues. The steering wheel is emblazoned with the "Jeep" logo, removing any doubt as to its identity. The heavy camouflage hides many details, but this is a clear look at the small Jeep's vertical grille slats and rounded headlights and taillights.

The new Jeep uses the Fiat "Small" architecture, but the baby Jeep is rumored to still have a reasonable level of off-roadability. Analysts point to the highly regarded Fiat Panda 4x4 off-roader as a promising starting point on which this new small Jeep can build. This off-road-adapted platform has been engineered with North America in mind from the beginning, with an engine bay ready for an engine up to 2.4L in displacement. Therefore, the new baby Jeep will likely offer the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder, with the 2.0L Tigershark and Fiat's 1.4L turbo as other likely options.

It was just announced that the new entry-level Jeep will make its appearance in the first quarter of this year, possibly getting a global unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show. There are also rumblings about the name of this new Jeep, and it's not "Jeepster." The name "Lattitude" is being passed around by inside sources.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

KGP Photography's man in Italy has snagged a new batch of highly detailed photos of a production-spec prototype for the new baby Jeep. The new, close-up shots provide 100% confirmation that this is, in fact, the new global, entry-level Jeep, while giving the best look yet at some of the mini-SUV's design cues. The steering wheel is emblazoned with the "Jeep" logo, removing any doubt as to its identity. The heavy camouflage hides many details, but this is a clear look at the small Jeep's vertical grille slats and rounded headlights and taillights.

The new Jeep uses the Fiat "Small" architecture, but the baby Jeep is rumored to still have a reasonable level of off-roadability. Analysts point to the highly regarded Fiat Panda 4x4 off-roader as a promising starting point on which this new small Jeep can build. This off-road-adapted platform has been engineered with North America in mind from the beginning, with an engine bay ready for an engine up to 2.4L in displacement. Therefore, the new baby Jeep will likely offer the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder, with the 2.0L Tigershark and Fiat's 1.4L turbo as other likely options.

It was just announced that the new entry-level Jeep will make its appearance in the first quarter of this year, possibly getting a global unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show. There are also rumblings about the name of this new Jeep, and it's not "Jeepster." The name "Lattitude" is being passed around by inside sources.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

KGP Photography's man in Italy has snagged a new batch of highly detailed photos of a production-spec prototype for the new baby Jeep. The new, close-up shots provide 100% confirmation that this is, in fact, the new global, entry-level Jeep, while giving the best look yet at some of the mini-SUV's design cues. The steering wheel is emblazoned with the "Jeep" logo, removing any doubt as to its identity. The heavy camouflage hides many details, but this is a clear look at the small Jeep's vertical grille slats and rounded headlights and taillights.

The new Jeep uses the Fiat "Small" architecture, but the baby Jeep is rumored to still have a reasonable level of off-roadability. Analysts point to the highly regarded Fiat Panda 4x4 off-roader as a promising starting point on which this new small Jeep can build. This off-road-adapted platform has been engineered with North America in mind from the beginning, with an engine bay ready for an engine up to 2.4L in displacement. Therefore, the new baby Jeep will likely offer the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder, with the 2.0L Tigershark and Fiat's 1.4L turbo as other likely options.

It was just announced that the new entry-level Jeep will make its appearance in the first quarter of this year, possibly getting a global unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show. There are also rumblings about the name of this new Jeep, and it's not "Jeepster." The name "Lattitude" is being passed around by inside sources.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Are you hunting for a new job? The “Positions Available” section in the SEMA Member Classifieds lists more than 50 job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest classifieds posted to the website.

• A leading aftermarket wheel company, located in City of Industry, California, is hiring a salesperson to provide information regarding products, account inquiries and order status via phone or e-mail; accept inbound calls from customers and prospects; and make outgoing calls to leads received daily and follow up with leads. The successful candidate will be bilingual (Spanish/English), have prior sales experience and experience in the aftermarket wheel industry.

• AAM Competition LLC, located in Annapolis Junction, Maryland, is hiring a dealer and wholesale account manager responsible for marketing, customer service, B2B sales and the overall success and achievement of established company sales and marketing goals. The successful candidate will have familiarity with aftermarket turbocharger offerings, at least three years' general sales and marketing experience and knowledge of the automotive aftermarket industry.

• Drag Illustrated Media LLC is hiring a senior advertising sales representative to work remotely or in the company's Nashville, Tennessee, office. This position will be responsible for selling both digital and print advertising and working with current sales and editorial teams. The successful candidate will have advertising sales experience and an automotive high-performance and/or motorsports background.

• Steeda Autosports, located in Valdosta, Georgia, is hiring a vehicle suspension design engineer to accurately determine spring rates, motion ratio and roll stiffness. The successful candidate must have five years' exprience in automotive engineering, should be able to work on an automobile with little supervision and have a good understanding of material strength and properties. 

View more listings from SEMA's Automotive Classifieds listings.

Are you hunting for a new job? The “Positions Available” section in the SEMA Member Classifieds lists more than 50 job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest classifieds posted to the website.

• A leading aftermarket wheel company, located in City of Industry, California, is hiring a salesperson to provide information regarding products, account inquiries and order status via phone or e-mail; accept inbound calls from customers and prospects; and make outgoing calls to leads received daily and follow up with leads. The successful candidate will be bilingual (Spanish/English), have prior sales experience and experience in the aftermarket wheel industry.

• AAM Competition LLC, located in Annapolis Junction, Maryland, is hiring a dealer and wholesale account manager responsible for marketing, customer service, B2B sales and the overall success and achievement of established company sales and marketing goals. The successful candidate will have familiarity with aftermarket turbocharger offerings, at least three years' general sales and marketing experience and knowledge of the automotive aftermarket industry.

• Drag Illustrated Media LLC is hiring a senior advertising sales representative to work remotely or in the company's Nashville, Tennessee, office. This position will be responsible for selling both digital and print advertising and working with current sales and editorial teams. The successful candidate will have advertising sales experience and an automotive high-performance and/or motorsports background.

• Steeda Autosports, located in Valdosta, Georgia, is hiring a vehicle suspension design engineer to accurately determine spring rates, motion ratio and roll stiffness. The successful candidate must have five years' exprience in automotive engineering, should be able to work on an automobile with little supervision and have a good understanding of material strength and properties. 

View more listings from SEMA's Automotive Classifieds listings.

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of niche-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular market segment.

Visit WTC's website

Wheel and Tire Experts Explore Challenges and Opportunities at February Meeting

Members of the wheel and tire industry will gather at the SEMA Garage Industry Innovations Center for an industry discussion, Wednesday, February 5, from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

On the agenda is a tour of the updated SEMA Garage, an address by SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting, discussions of the latest developments from the Wheel & Tire Council’s (WTC) partnership with Clemson University’s International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR), updates on the progress of the SAE J3010 certification and discussions and resources related to the protection of intellectual property. By participating in the discussion, individuals can help determine the focus and direction of the council for the next year and beyond.

The meeting will be followed by a networking lunch for attendees. All employees of WTC-member companies are invited to attend the event. Register today to save your seat.

For more information about WTC or this event, contact Senior Manager of Councils Clayton Drescher.

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Visit ARMO's website.

Restoration Parts Registration Open for Hot Products Showcase

Registration is now open for the Automotive Restoration Market Organization’s (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase, which will take place April 23–26, 2014, at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

This event is an opportunity for council members to display one or more products in front of one of the single-largest gatherings of automotive restoration enthusiasts in the world.

In addition to having products on display in the Hot Products tent, a professional photographer will photograph each one. The photos will be available to manufacturers and will also be used in a slideshow at the ARMO booth and reception at the SEMA Show. A gallery on the ARMO webpage also houses each of the photos, along with a product description for those unable to attend the event. This publicity is available to ARMO members for only the cost of shipping the product entries to the Carlisle Fairgrounds.

Product entries must meet the following criteria:

• Must be the product of an ARMO member-company.
• Must be available for sale (market-ready) by the opening of the Showcase, April 23. 
• Must demonstrate unique/innovative technology and/or be a benefit to the restoration industry.

Members can register products by filling out the online application. All applications must be received by April 18, 2014. Not an ARMO member? Join today to gain access to this event and other council benefits.

Restoration Professionals Gather for Networking at the Hot Products Showcase

ARMO will host a networking mixer in the Hot Products Tent at the Showcase, Thursday, April 24, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. The mixer will be a chance for members to grab a drink and spend some time interacting one-on-one with council leadership and fellow ARMO members. The council leadership believes this event holds enormous potential for new ideas and partnerships to be formed as members network with new and old industry friends. RSVP to save your spot.

Make Your Voice Heard at the ARMO Industry Discussion

This year, the council will also hold an industry discussion, Friday, April 25, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Hot Products Tent. The session will allow members and others interested in joining the council to voice their concerns, ask questions and offer input to the group. For members who would like to be a part of shaping future projects and events, this will be a chance to make their voices heard. Send in your RSVP today.

For more information about any of these events, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

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Visit HRIA's website

	HRIA Education Day will consist of 24 sessions, each led by a hot-rod parts manufacturer educating attendees about product features, benefits and installation guidelines.

Hot Rod Council to Present Education Day at 2014 Detroit Autorama

By Della Domingo

The annual SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Day will be held, for the first time, in conjunction with the Detroit Autorama—the 60-year-old custom car show taking place in March 2014 at Cobo Hall in Detroit. The program will consist of 24 sessions, each led by a hot-rod parts manufacturer educating attendees about product features, benefits and installation guidelines.

“For more than 10 years, HRIA Education Day has proven to be a key event for helping manufacturers share detailed, and sometimes technical, information about their products with their customers,” said Jim Skelly, SEMA director of councils. “Holding the Education Day program at the Detroit Autorama will allow HRIA members to expand and reach a new audience.”

HRIA previously held its Education Day program at the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in Indianapolis. The move to the Detroit Autorama will enable manufacturers to reach a new, expanded audience. Autorama, which is well known for having the world’s most coveted hot rods, prestigious awards competitions, as well as top celebrities and student programs, attracts more than 150,000 individuals annually. Education Day will take place Thursday, March 6, 2014 (the day before Autorama officially opens), and is open to all hot-rod shops and businesses, as well as to all Autorama attendees.

“As one of the nation’s premier indoor custom car shows, the Detroit Autorama attracts thousands of businesses and enthusiasts who are passionate and deeply vested in new hot-rod products,” said Peter A. Toundas, president of Championship Auto Shows Inc.—promoter of the event. “The HRIA Education Day program will add a valuable element to the event, giving attendees an opportunity to connect directly with manufacturers, which would be difficult for them to do on their own.”

Attendee registration is now open. Reserve your spot today.

For more information about HRIA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Compiled by SEMA Editors

NEWS NUGGETS

STANFIELD, ISBELL TEAM UP FOR THE 2014 SEASON: Pro Stock veteran Greg Stanfield and Jeff Isbell, a former national event winner in Top Alcohol Dragster, will team up for the 2014 season in the Pro Stock ranks. Stanfield will drive the Chevy Camaro Pro Stock entry owned by Isbell and built by Jerry Haas.

“I’m excited for him, knowing his goal and what he wants to do," said Stanfield of Isbell. "He’s not about just going out and leasing motors. He wants to build his own motors. I can get him a good foundation, get him set up on his cars and get him going, and who knows, we might have two cars someday. I think the ultimate goal knowing the situation he’s in is I get to drive and help him get set up, and maybe by then we can find sponsor dollars to have two.”

For more on this story visit, www.NHRA.com.

MOONEYES RETURNS TO CIRCLE K WINTERNATIONALS: Jim Dunn Racing will once again sport the familiar colors and logo of Mooneyes during the Circle K NHRA Winternationals February 6–9. “The fan response when we unveiled the car at the NHRA Finals was incredible,” said team manager Jon Dunn. “It just made perfect sense for us to bring the Mooneyes car back for the Winternationals in Pomona.”

For more on this story visit, www.NHRA.com.

BEADLE TO BE INDUCTED INTO MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME OF AMERICA: Three-time former NHRA Funny Car champion Raymond Beadle will be among the seven motorsports figures inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America’s 26th class of racing legends, Wednesday, August 6, 2014, at Detroit’s historic Fillmore Theater. Beadle, driver of the famed Blue Max Funny Car, won three straight NHRA Funny Car championships, from ’79–’81. His first title in ’79 ended Don Prudhomme’s four-year reign atop the class. Before beginning his Funny Car career, Beadle drove front-engine Top Fuelers out of his native Texas. For more on this story visit www.NHRA.com.


COMING ATTRACTIONS

CIRCLE K NHRA WINTERNATIONALS, Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, February 6–9: The Circle K NHRA Winternationals starts the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series at one of the most historic facilities on the NHRA circuit, Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Courtney Force, pictured, (Funny Car) and Vincent Nobile (Pro Stock) will attempt to defend their 2013 wins and start the season on a positive note.

CARQUEST AUTO PARTS NHRA NATIONALS, Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, February 21–23: For the 30th season, the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series races into the Valley of the Sun for the CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals. The facility south of Phoenix has hosted many historic performances throughout the years. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Erica Enders-Stevens (Pro Stock) recorded wins at the track in 2013 and will again be among the favorites to claim early-season victories.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“I think one of the biggest things I have up my sleeve, which isn't necessarily a driving-related thing is the fact that I've just worked with this team for so long. The team chemistry is there right away. I've seen the way this team operates and how I paid close attention to how Morgan goes about handling things during the race weekend as a driver. I think the fact that I've been around it for so long is probably my biggest benefit.”

—Richie Crampton on replacing Morgan Lucas in the GEICO/Lucas Oil Top Fuel dragster for the upcoming season.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

10: Number of consecutive seasons Jason Line has won an event during the course of NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series career. His first win came at the 2004 event in Chicago and his most recent win was at the AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals in Dallas. He has two career wins at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona both coming at the season opening event. He and Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Andrew Hines lead all NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series racers in the win streak category.

DID YOU KNOW…

FORCE AND LANGDON HONORED BY MOTORSPORTS WRITERS: The NHRA was well represented as the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association (AARWBA) announced its 2013 All-America First Team. Sixteen-time NHRA Mello Yello Funny Car champ John Force was voted to the All-America team and was also recognized as the Jerry Titus Memorial Trophy winner for the driver having the most overall votes. It’s the fifth time that Force has won the Titus award.

“It is always an honor to be recognized as an All-America First Team driver,” said Force. “This award is very special because the media is so important to growing our sport."

The 2013 Top Fuel world champion Shawn Langdon was also voted to the First Team. "I am honored to represent NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing and the Al-Anabi Racing team on the prestigious AARWBA All-America team," Langdon said. "To have my name mentioned with drivers like John Force, Jimmie Johnson, Matt Kenseth, Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon and the rest of the drivers on the team is really special."

For more on this story visit www.NHRA.com.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

NEWS NUGGETS

STANFIELD, ISBELL TEAM UP FOR THE 2014 SEASON: Pro Stock veteran Greg Stanfield and Jeff Isbell, a former national event winner in Top Alcohol Dragster, will team up for the 2014 season in the Pro Stock ranks. Stanfield will drive the Chevy Camaro Pro Stock entry owned by Isbell and built by Jerry Haas.

“I’m excited for him, knowing his goal and what he wants to do," said Stanfield of Isbell. "He’s not about just going out and leasing motors. He wants to build his own motors. I can get him a good foundation, get him set up on his cars and get him going, and who knows, we might have two cars someday. I think the ultimate goal knowing the situation he’s in is I get to drive and help him get set up, and maybe by then we can find sponsor dollars to have two.”

For more on this story visit, www.NHRA.com.

MOONEYES RETURNS TO CIRCLE K WINTERNATIONALS: Jim Dunn Racing will once again sport the familiar colors and logo of Mooneyes during the Circle K NHRA Winternationals February 6–9. “The fan response when we unveiled the car at the NHRA Finals was incredible,” said team manager Jon Dunn. “It just made perfect sense for us to bring the Mooneyes car back for the Winternationals in Pomona.”

For more on this story visit, www.NHRA.com.

BEADLE TO BE INDUCTED INTO MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME OF AMERICA: Three-time former NHRA Funny Car champion Raymond Beadle will be among the seven motorsports figures inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America’s 26th class of racing legends, Wednesday, August 6, 2014, at Detroit’s historic Fillmore Theater. Beadle, driver of the famed Blue Max Funny Car, won three straight NHRA Funny Car championships, from ’79–’81. His first title in ’79 ended Don Prudhomme’s four-year reign atop the class. Before beginning his Funny Car career, Beadle drove front-engine Top Fuelers out of his native Texas. For more on this story visit www.NHRA.com.


COMING ATTRACTIONS

CIRCLE K NHRA WINTERNATIONALS, Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, February 6–9: The Circle K NHRA Winternationals starts the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series at one of the most historic facilities on the NHRA circuit, Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Courtney Force, pictured, (Funny Car) and Vincent Nobile (Pro Stock) will attempt to defend their 2013 wins and start the season on a positive note.

CARQUEST AUTO PARTS NHRA NATIONALS, Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, February 21–23: For the 30th season, the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series races into the Valley of the Sun for the CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals. The facility south of Phoenix has hosted many historic performances throughout the years. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Erica Enders-Stevens (Pro Stock) recorded wins at the track in 2013 and will again be among the favorites to claim early-season victories.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“I think one of the biggest things I have up my sleeve, which isn't necessarily a driving-related thing is the fact that I've just worked with this team for so long. The team chemistry is there right away. I've seen the way this team operates and how I paid close attention to how Morgan goes about handling things during the race weekend as a driver. I think the fact that I've been around it for so long is probably my biggest benefit.”

—Richie Crampton on replacing Morgan Lucas in the GEICO/Lucas Oil Top Fuel dragster for the upcoming season.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

10: Number of consecutive seasons Jason Line has won an event during the course of NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series career. His first win came at the 2004 event in Chicago and his most recent win was at the AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals in Dallas. He has two career wins at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona both coming at the season opening event. He and Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Andrew Hines lead all NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series racers in the win streak category.

DID YOU KNOW…

FORCE AND LANGDON HONORED BY MOTORSPORTS WRITERS: The NHRA was well represented as the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association (AARWBA) announced its 2013 All-America First Team. Sixteen-time NHRA Mello Yello Funny Car champ John Force was voted to the All-America team and was also recognized as the Jerry Titus Memorial Trophy winner for the driver having the most overall votes. It’s the fifth time that Force has won the Titus award.

“It is always an honor to be recognized as an All-America First Team driver,” said Force. “This award is very special because the media is so important to growing our sport."

The 2013 Top Fuel world champion Shawn Langdon was also voted to the First Team. "I am honored to represent NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing and the Al-Anabi Racing team on the prestigious AARWBA All-America team," Langdon said. "To have my name mentioned with drivers like John Force, Jimmie Johnson, Matt Kenseth, Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon and the rest of the drivers on the team is really special."

For more on this story visit www.NHRA.com.