SEMA members traveling with SEMA to the 2014 SEMA Middle East event will visit specialty shops, participate in a briefing with U.S. Embassy officials based in the region and exhibit at a local show. Networking opportunities with pre-vetted buyers round out the program.

Three subsidized slots remain for the opportunity to meet with pre-vetted buyers from throughout the Middle East at the third SEMA Middle East Business Development Conference being held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), March 11–14, 2014.

Why should you explore the Middle East market for your products?

• The UAE and their neighbors in Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait are crazy about cars.

• The markets in the region are booming with ’14 passenger vehicle sales in line to set new records.

• Classic car restoration—either restored in the United States and then shipped to the region or restored locally—is the current trend.

• Whether off-roading or drag racing, enthusiasts in the region are seeking to push the limits on power.

• Deep pockets—The UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have among the world’s highest per capita disposable incomes and thus the funds to pursue their hobby. As more people have money to spend and the local economy continues to grow, consumer expenditure in the UAE is expected to top Dh766 billion this year—up by 7% from 2013—according to Euromonitor International—a London-based market intelligence firm.

• Consumers are seeking out the latest and greatest new products to personalize their rides.

• The vast desert is the venue for the hot off-roading market.

• Musclecars—classic and modern—are popular. The seventh-generation Corvette will be available in the Middle East in early 2014, and the sixth-generation Mustang will come to consumers in the UAE and surrounding countries.

• As more people have money to spend and the local economy continues to grow, consumer expenditure in the UAE is expected to top Dh766 billion this year—up by 7% from 2013—according to Euromonitor International—a London-based market intelligence firm.

More than 160 pre-vetted buyers from nine countries met with 41 SEMA-member exhibitors at the 2013 SEMA Middle East Business Development Conference. Ninety-five percent of the world’s customers are located beyond United States borders. By diversifying, SEMA members can better position themselves for future economic downturns.

“The Middle East has tremendous upside for the performance market,” said Rick Trudo, CEO of Florida-based SCT Performance. “We have seen eight-to-one growth over our two years working with SEMA at this event. It plays a big part in our international growth strategy, as do China and Brazil. It helps take the potential inconsistency out of the U.S. market and gives us a strong offshoot to sell into.”

Motorsports and vehicle personalization have a strong and growing base throughout the region, and a quick drive around Dubai or Abu Dhabi would surprise any gearhead with the wide variety of customized vehicles traveling the roads. Off-roading is also extremely popular throughout the region with SUVs and pickup owners heading into the desert.

“Automotive styling in the Middle East is a confluence of influences from around the globe,” said David Borla, sales and marketing manager for Borla Performance. “Whether it’s musclecars, high-end exotics, Jeeps, pickups, SUVs, luxury sedans or sport compacts, you will find a cross section of the world’s finest automotive offerings. But it doesn’t stop there. Personalization is just as important as the platforms themselves, and there is a pervasive culture of tailoring vehicles to meet individual specifications, needs or preferences.

“The conditions in the Middle East have created a ‘perfect storm’ that promotes the growth and prosperity of the automotive aftermarket. Beyond the affluence and brand consciousness you see on the surface, there is a growing infrastructure of distribution and service that makes it easy for enthusiasts to buy, install and maintain aftermarket parts. Combine that with great roads and what seems like infinite sand dunes, and you have a giant playground for people who love to play with cars."

U.S. Department of Commerce $1,000 grants are available to help qualified companies defray participation costs.

The exploratory and sales trip to the UAE will include a tour of local shops and an opportunity to meet with buyers from throughout the region. Last year's event included buyers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt.

For more information or to register, visit SEMA.org/MiddleEast. Read the SEMA News article covering the 2013 SEMA Middle East Business Development Conference.

Don't wait, register today. Questions? Contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

SEMA members traveling with SEMA to the 2014 SEMA Middle East event will visit specialty shops, participate in a briefing with U.S. Embassy officials based in the region and exhibit at a local show. Networking opportunities with pre-vetted buyers round out the program.

Three subsidized slots remain for the opportunity to meet with pre-vetted buyers from throughout the Middle East at the third SEMA Middle East Business Development Conference being held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), March 11–14, 2014.

Why should you explore the Middle East market for your products?

• The UAE and their neighbors in Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait are crazy about cars.

• The markets in the region are booming with ’14 passenger vehicle sales in line to set new records.

• Classic car restoration—either restored in the United States and then shipped to the region or restored locally—is the current trend.

• Whether off-roading or drag racing, enthusiasts in the region are seeking to push the limits on power.

• Deep pockets—The UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have among the world’s highest per capita disposable incomes and thus the funds to pursue their hobby. As more people have money to spend and the local economy continues to grow, consumer expenditure in the UAE is expected to top Dh766 billion this year—up by 7% from 2013—according to Euromonitor International—a London-based market intelligence firm.

• Consumers are seeking out the latest and greatest new products to personalize their rides.

• The vast desert is the venue for the hot off-roading market.

• Musclecars—classic and modern—are popular. The seventh-generation Corvette will be available in the Middle East in early 2014, and the sixth-generation Mustang will come to consumers in the UAE and surrounding countries.

• As more people have money to spend and the local economy continues to grow, consumer expenditure in the UAE is expected to top Dh766 billion this year—up by 7% from 2013—according to Euromonitor International—a London-based market intelligence firm.

More than 160 pre-vetted buyers from nine countries met with 41 SEMA-member exhibitors at the 2013 SEMA Middle East Business Development Conference. Ninety-five percent of the world’s customers are located beyond United States borders. By diversifying, SEMA members can better position themselves for future economic downturns.

“The Middle East has tremendous upside for the performance market,” said Rick Trudo, CEO of Florida-based SCT Performance. “We have seen eight-to-one growth over our two years working with SEMA at this event. It plays a big part in our international growth strategy, as do China and Brazil. It helps take the potential inconsistency out of the U.S. market and gives us a strong offshoot to sell into.”

Motorsports and vehicle personalization have a strong and growing base throughout the region, and a quick drive around Dubai or Abu Dhabi would surprise any gearhead with the wide variety of customized vehicles traveling the roads. Off-roading is also extremely popular throughout the region with SUVs and pickup owners heading into the desert.

“Automotive styling in the Middle East is a confluence of influences from around the globe,” said David Borla, sales and marketing manager for Borla Performance. “Whether it’s musclecars, high-end exotics, Jeeps, pickups, SUVs, luxury sedans or sport compacts, you will find a cross section of the world’s finest automotive offerings. But it doesn’t stop there. Personalization is just as important as the platforms themselves, and there is a pervasive culture of tailoring vehicles to meet individual specifications, needs or preferences.

“The conditions in the Middle East have created a ‘perfect storm’ that promotes the growth and prosperity of the automotive aftermarket. Beyond the affluence and brand consciousness you see on the surface, there is a growing infrastructure of distribution and service that makes it easy for enthusiasts to buy, install and maintain aftermarket parts. Combine that with great roads and what seems like infinite sand dunes, and you have a giant playground for people who love to play with cars."

U.S. Department of Commerce $1,000 grants are available to help qualified companies defray participation costs.

The exploratory and sales trip to the UAE will include a tour of local shops and an opportunity to meet with buyers from throughout the region. Last year's event included buyers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt.

For more information or to register, visit SEMA.org/MiddleEast. Read the SEMA News article covering the 2013 SEMA Middle East Business Development Conference.

Don't wait, register today. Questions? Contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

	Ford project-vehicle requests require two components: an e-mail project summary (due February 21, 2014) and a detailed written proposal (due March 3, 2014).

Ford Motor Co. has revealed the eligible models for its 2014 project-vehicle program. The Ford booth at the 2014 SEMA Show will highlight the following vehicles in addition to the manufacturer's existing lineup:

1. All-New Ford Mustang—proposals for this vehicle should be submitted in one of the following categories**:

• Road Racing (Street-Legal Track Car)
• Formula Drift
• Boy Racer
• Street Performance (American Muscle/Hot Rod)
• Sportsman Drag Racing
• Super Car Luxury

** Proposals should not include reference to the 50th anniversary of Mustang.

2. All-New Ford F-150—proposals for this vehicle should be submitted in one of the following categories:

• Off-Road
• Street Performance
• Ultimate Work
• Ultimate Play
• Outdoor Lifestyle
• Luxury

3. All-New Ford Transit

4. Ford Fiesta ST

5. Ford Focus ST

6. Ford Expedition

7. Ford Super Duty

Information for the above models can be found on the Ford media website or www.ford.com. These links will allow you to research the models and find high-resolution images that may be used for your proposal rendering.

The automaker requests that project-vehicle proposals be submitted in two parts, and that all proposals meet the Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program Criteria outlined below:

2014 Ford Project Vehicle Program

Proposal Submission Deadline: March 3, 2014
Award Recipient Notification Date: by May 1, 2014

All project vehicle requests must be submitted in two parts and meet the following Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program criteria:

Part 1

E-mail a one-page project summary—must be received by February 21, 2014. Include bullet points for:

• Vehicle/theme
• Vehicle modifications
• New product development
• Promotional plan
• Vehicle display location at the 2014 SEMA Show

Part 2

Mail a detailed project proposal—must be received by March 3, 2014. Include details supporting the one-page project summary on company letterhead, a color rendering and past project vehicle examples.

Information on Ford vehicles is available at: www.ford.com.

Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program Criteria

Aftermarket companies requesting project vehicles should be:

• A Manufacturer or designer/restyler dedicated to supporting new product development.
• Financially capable and willing to spend promotional dollars.
• Actively promoting the vehicle with their product(s) through an established marketing plan.
• A current SEMA member.

Aftermarket companies receiving project vehicles must:

• Feature the vehicle in a booth at the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
• Register and keep the vehicle in your company name during the entire contract period.
• Purchase and maintain $3 million in general liability, $3 million in automotive liability, $1 million in employer liability and demonstrate worker's compensation coverage. An umbrella policy may be used to achieve coverage limits.
• Commit to feature the vehicle with the Ford logo intact and visible.
• Order a California-certified vehicle if you intend to register or use the vehicle primarily in California or any other state that has adopted California emissions standards. Failure to do so may subject you to a state fine.
• Make vehicles available to Ford or its dealers for display, at the owner's discretion.
• Submit written quarterly status reports for a period of 18 months, as specified in the contract, stating:

1. Product development
2. Modifications to the vehicle
3. Events (including dates, location and type of event)
4. Media exposure (originals or color copies)
5. Company advertising featuring the vehicle
6. Additional exposure
7. A copy of your current vehicle registration
8. E-mail, disc or fax reports will not be accepted

Submit Ford Project Vehicle proposals to:

Ford Motor Co.
21175 Oakwood Blvd., PDCDC MD579
Dearborn, MI 48124
Attn: Sherry Kollien & Mike Nicopolis
semainfo@ford.com

By SEMA Editors

	Ford project-vehicle requests require two components: an e-mail project summary (due February 21, 2014) and a detailed written proposal (due March 3, 2014).

Ford Motor Co. has revealed the eligible models for its 2014 project-vehicle program. The Ford booth at the 2014 SEMA Show will highlight the following vehicles in addition to the manufacturer's existing lineup:

1. All-New Ford Mustang—proposals for this vehicle should be submitted in one of the following categories**:

• Road Racing (Street-Legal Track Car)
• Formula Drift
• Boy Racer
• Street Performance (American Muscle/Hot Rod)
• Sportsman Drag Racing
• Super Car Luxury

** Proposals should not include reference to the 50th anniversary of Mustang.

2. All-New Ford F-150—proposals for this vehicle should be submitted in one of the following categories:

• Off-Road
• Street Performance
• Ultimate Work
• Ultimate Play
• Outdoor Lifestyle
• Luxury

3. All-New Ford Transit

4. Ford Fiesta ST

5. Ford Focus ST

6. Ford Expedition

7. Ford Super Duty

Information for the above models can be found on the Ford media website or www.ford.com. These links will allow you to research the models and find high-resolution images that may be used for your proposal rendering.

The automaker requests that project-vehicle proposals be submitted in two parts, and that all proposals meet the Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program Criteria outlined below:

2014 Ford Project Vehicle Program

Proposal Submission Deadline: March 3, 2014
Award Recipient Notification Date: by May 1, 2014

All project vehicle requests must be submitted in two parts and meet the following Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program criteria:

Part 1

E-mail a one-page project summary—must be received by February 21, 2014. Include bullet points for:

• Vehicle/theme
• Vehicle modifications
• New product development
• Promotional plan
• Vehicle display location at the 2014 SEMA Show

Part 2

Mail a detailed project proposal—must be received by March 3, 2014. Include details supporting the one-page project summary on company letterhead, a color rendering and past project vehicle examples.

Information on Ford vehicles is available at: www.ford.com.

Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program Criteria

Aftermarket companies requesting project vehicles should be:

• A Manufacturer or designer/restyler dedicated to supporting new product development.
• Financially capable and willing to spend promotional dollars.
• Actively promoting the vehicle with their product(s) through an established marketing plan.
• A current SEMA member.

Aftermarket companies receiving project vehicles must:

• Feature the vehicle in a booth at the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
• Register and keep the vehicle in your company name during the entire contract period.
• Purchase and maintain $3 million in general liability, $3 million in automotive liability, $1 million in employer liability and demonstrate worker's compensation coverage. An umbrella policy may be used to achieve coverage limits.
• Commit to feature the vehicle with the Ford logo intact and visible.
• Order a California-certified vehicle if you intend to register or use the vehicle primarily in California or any other state that has adopted California emissions standards. Failure to do so may subject you to a state fine.
• Make vehicles available to Ford or its dealers for display, at the owner's discretion.
• Submit written quarterly status reports for a period of 18 months, as specified in the contract, stating:

1. Product development
2. Modifications to the vehicle
3. Events (including dates, location and type of event)
4. Media exposure (originals or color copies)
5. Company advertising featuring the vehicle
6. Additional exposure
7. A copy of your current vehicle registration
8. E-mail, disc or fax reports will not be accepted

Submit Ford Project Vehicle proposals to:

Ford Motor Co.
21175 Oakwood Blvd., PDCDC MD579
Dearborn, MI 48124
Attn: Sherry Kollien & Mike Nicopolis
semainfo@ford.com

Compiled by SEMA Editors

At the North American International Auto Show, Acura Motorsports unveiled the Acura TLX GT race car, which it announced would be campaigned by RealTime Racing in the 2014 Pirelli World Challenge GT Championship.

RealTime Racing to Campaign New Acura TLX in Pirelli World Challenge GT
During the unveiling of the ’15 Acura TLX Prototype at the North American International Auto Show, Acura Motorsports surprised the crowd with a dual unveiling of the Acura TLX GT race car, which it announced would be campaigned by RealTime Racing in the 2014 Pirelli World Challenge GT Championship.

RealTime and Acura have enjoyed a long and successful relationship in the World Challenge series. Since 1993, RealTime has earned 85 race victories, 14 Manufacturers' Championships and 14 Drivers' Championships with a variety of Acura and Honda machines. For the next evolution of this partnership, RealTime will prepare the new Acura TLX for competition in the highly competitive GT category.

Acura returns to World Challenge's GT category for the first time since 2002, when RealTime campaigned an Acura NSX. In 2014, the TLX will be up against high-performance cars, including the Audi R8 LMS, Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes SLS, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 and Ferrari 458.

The RTR crew is already hard at work preparing the TLX for the formidable World Challenge GT field. The car features an HPD chassis with enhanced aerodynamic performance parts, and will be powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed from the production TLX. Like the road-going version, the race car will utilize an all-wheel-drive system.

TRG-AMR North America has announced Royal Purple as the team’s exclusive lubricants provider and team sponsor for the 2014 race season.

TRG-AMR North America and Royal Purple Announce 2014 Partnership
With the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona only a few weeks away, TRG-AMR North America has announced Royal Purple as the team’s exclusive lubricants provider and team sponsor for the 2014 race season. Following extensive vehicle performance and durability testing using Royal Purple’s products and an initial limited partnership late in 2013, the two groups worked together during the off-season to establish a permanent technical and marketing alliance for the 2014 race season.

Under the terms of the technical and marketing alliance, Royal Purple’s products will be used in all TRG-AMR V12 Vantage GT3’s and Vantage GT4’s competing in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship, Pirelli World Challenge, Continental Tire Championship and Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of North America race series. TRG-AMR will also prominently feature Royal Purple branding on the team’s race cars, trailers and apparel. Together, the two companies will work to establish integrated marketing and social media campaigns, building brand equity and raising awareness for both TRG-AMR’s racing efforts and Royal Purple’s line of synthetic lubricants and fluids.

TRG-AMR and Royal Purple’s first race as partners occurs at the 52nd annual Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona, in Daytona Beach, Florida, January 25–26, featuring the No. 007 and No. 009 cars competing in the TUDOR USCC GTD class, and cars No. 07 and No. 09 in the GS class of the Continental Tire Sport Car Challenge.

Dan Quiet navigates the course at the 2013 Midwest Division RallyCross National Challenge held at I-80 Speedway. Photo: Jerry Doctor

SCCA Announces Date and Location for RallyCross National Championships
The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) will hold the 10th edition of the RallyCross National Championship October 4–5, at the I-80 Speedway, in Greenwood, Nebraska. The I-80 Speedway will be the fifth different venue to host the National Championship event, which had previously been run at Tulsa (Oklahoma) Raceway Park. Since its inception, the event has seen a steady increase in the number of competitors and the level of competition. Plans to commemorate a decade of running this event is in the works. Specific activities to mark the occasion will be announced at a later date.

TORC Welcomes Return of Cooper Tire as Official Series Partner for 2014 Season
TORC: The Off-Road Championship has announced that Cooper Tire is returning as an Official Series Partner for the 2014 TORC season. As an Official Series Partner, Cooper Tire will engage with TORC's national fanbase through an array of television, radio, print, digital and social media exposure. In addition, the company will continue its on-site presence at TORC events with the Cooper Tire motorsports display. TORC: The Off-Road Championship will hold seven events across the United States this year, with NBC Sports providing television coverage and a behind-the-scenes docu-reality series. The 2014 event schedule features races at the following venues:

• April 5–6: Primm, Nevada (Primm Off Road Raceway)
• April 25–26: Charlotte, North Carolina (Charlotte Motor Speedway)
• May 17–18: St. Louis, Missouri (Gateway Motorsports Park)
• June 28–29: Crandon, Wisconsin (Crandon International Off Road Raceway)
• July 19–20: Bark River, Michigan (Bark River Off Road Raceway)
• August 5–6: Sturgis, South Dakota (Buffalo Chip Powersports Complex)
• August 30–31: Crandon, Wisconsin (Crandon International Off Road Raceway)

Shannon Campbell will drive the FOX 4705 car in the Spec Class at the 2014 King of the Hammers.

FOX Selected as Exclusive Suspension Partner of Ultra4 Spec Class
Ultra4 racing has grown exponentially since King of the Hammers (KOH) started as a small gathering of friends back in 2007. The latest addition to this hybrid event that combines desert racing and rock crawling is the Ultra4 4700 Spec Class, which allows race enthusiasts to enjoy an arrive-and-race experience at King of the Hammers and other Ultra4 races throughout the year.

Six drivers will be competing in the Spec Class at the 2014 King of the Hammers, including television personality and women's land speed record holder Jessi Combs. The FOX 4705 car will be driven by two-time KOH winner and 2013 Ultra4 Series champion Shannon Campbell.

In addition to being the exclusive suspension for the Ultra4 Spec Class, FOX is putting up $15,000 in cash and product purses for the Ultra4, EMC Stock, EMC Modified and Spec Classes.

The Riot Racing team and the No. 29 Trick Truck prepare for the 2014 racing season.

2014 International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Announces Sponsors, Inductee Presenters
Three of the largest corporate supporters of drag racing will again be supporting the 24th Annual International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, which will be held in Gainesville, Florida, at the Paramount Plaza Hotel & Suites, March 13, 2014. The banquet will again be hosted by Bob Frey as the Master of Ceremonies.

Donna Garlits, general manager/CFO of the Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum (Ocala, Florida) disclosed that Lucas Oil Products Inc. (Corona, Calif.) will be the presenting sponsor, and the event will be known as the Lucas Oil Products 24th Annual International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Induction Banquet. Three other long-term backers of the induction banquet have returned as associate sponsors: Summit Racing Equipment; MOPAR, Chrysler Group LLC service, parts and customer-care group; and Commercial Power Cleaners.

Garlits also announced the individuals who will present the seven inductees of the Class of 2014. The inductees and their presenters are:

Compiled by SEMA Editors

At the North American International Auto Show, Acura Motorsports unveiled the Acura TLX GT race car, which it announced would be campaigned by RealTime Racing in the 2014 Pirelli World Challenge GT Championship.

RealTime Racing to Campaign New Acura TLX in Pirelli World Challenge GT
During the unveiling of the ’15 Acura TLX Prototype at the North American International Auto Show, Acura Motorsports surprised the crowd with a dual unveiling of the Acura TLX GT race car, which it announced would be campaigned by RealTime Racing in the 2014 Pirelli World Challenge GT Championship.

RealTime and Acura have enjoyed a long and successful relationship in the World Challenge series. Since 1993, RealTime has earned 85 race victories, 14 Manufacturers' Championships and 14 Drivers' Championships with a variety of Acura and Honda machines. For the next evolution of this partnership, RealTime will prepare the new Acura TLX for competition in the highly competitive GT category.

Acura returns to World Challenge's GT category for the first time since 2002, when RealTime campaigned an Acura NSX. In 2014, the TLX will be up against high-performance cars, including the Audi R8 LMS, Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes SLS, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 and Ferrari 458.

The RTR crew is already hard at work preparing the TLX for the formidable World Challenge GT field. The car features an HPD chassis with enhanced aerodynamic performance parts, and will be powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed from the production TLX. Like the road-going version, the race car will utilize an all-wheel-drive system.

TRG-AMR North America has announced Royal Purple as the team’s exclusive lubricants provider and team sponsor for the 2014 race season.

TRG-AMR North America and Royal Purple Announce 2014 Partnership
With the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona only a few weeks away, TRG-AMR North America has announced Royal Purple as the team’s exclusive lubricants provider and team sponsor for the 2014 race season. Following extensive vehicle performance and durability testing using Royal Purple’s products and an initial limited partnership late in 2013, the two groups worked together during the off-season to establish a permanent technical and marketing alliance for the 2014 race season.

Under the terms of the technical and marketing alliance, Royal Purple’s products will be used in all TRG-AMR V12 Vantage GT3’s and Vantage GT4’s competing in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship, Pirelli World Challenge, Continental Tire Championship and Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of North America race series. TRG-AMR will also prominently feature Royal Purple branding on the team’s race cars, trailers and apparel. Together, the two companies will work to establish integrated marketing and social media campaigns, building brand equity and raising awareness for both TRG-AMR’s racing efforts and Royal Purple’s line of synthetic lubricants and fluids.

TRG-AMR and Royal Purple’s first race as partners occurs at the 52nd annual Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona, in Daytona Beach, Florida, January 25–26, featuring the No. 007 and No. 009 cars competing in the TUDOR USCC GTD class, and cars No. 07 and No. 09 in the GS class of the Continental Tire Sport Car Challenge.

Dan Quiet navigates the course at the 2013 Midwest Division RallyCross National Challenge held at I-80 Speedway. Photo: Jerry Doctor

SCCA Announces Date and Location for RallyCross National Championships
The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) will hold the 10th edition of the RallyCross National Championship October 4–5, at the I-80 Speedway, in Greenwood, Nebraska. The I-80 Speedway will be the fifth different venue to host the National Championship event, which had previously been run at Tulsa (Oklahoma) Raceway Park. Since its inception, the event has seen a steady increase in the number of competitors and the level of competition. Plans to commemorate a decade of running this event is in the works. Specific activities to mark the occasion will be announced at a later date.

TORC Welcomes Return of Cooper Tire as Official Series Partner for 2014 Season
TORC: The Off-Road Championship has announced that Cooper Tire is returning as an Official Series Partner for the 2014 TORC season. As an Official Series Partner, Cooper Tire will engage with TORC's national fanbase through an array of television, radio, print, digital and social media exposure. In addition, the company will continue its on-site presence at TORC events with the Cooper Tire motorsports display. TORC: The Off-Road Championship will hold seven events across the United States this year, with NBC Sports providing television coverage and a behind-the-scenes docu-reality series. The 2014 event schedule features races at the following venues:

• April 5–6: Primm, Nevada (Primm Off Road Raceway)
• April 25–26: Charlotte, North Carolina (Charlotte Motor Speedway)
• May 17–18: St. Louis, Missouri (Gateway Motorsports Park)
• June 28–29: Crandon, Wisconsin (Crandon International Off Road Raceway)
• July 19–20: Bark River, Michigan (Bark River Off Road Raceway)
• August 5–6: Sturgis, South Dakota (Buffalo Chip Powersports Complex)
• August 30–31: Crandon, Wisconsin (Crandon International Off Road Raceway)

Shannon Campbell will drive the FOX 4705 car in the Spec Class at the 2014 King of the Hammers.

FOX Selected as Exclusive Suspension Partner of Ultra4 Spec Class
Ultra4 racing has grown exponentially since King of the Hammers (KOH) started as a small gathering of friends back in 2007. The latest addition to this hybrid event that combines desert racing and rock crawling is the Ultra4 4700 Spec Class, which allows race enthusiasts to enjoy an arrive-and-race experience at King of the Hammers and other Ultra4 races throughout the year.

Six drivers will be competing in the Spec Class at the 2014 King of the Hammers, including television personality and women's land speed record holder Jessi Combs. The FOX 4705 car will be driven by two-time KOH winner and 2013 Ultra4 Series champion Shannon Campbell.

In addition to being the exclusive suspension for the Ultra4 Spec Class, FOX is putting up $15,000 in cash and product purses for the Ultra4, EMC Stock, EMC Modified and Spec Classes.

The Riot Racing team and the No. 29 Trick Truck prepare for the 2014 racing season.

2014 International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Announces Sponsors, Inductee Presenters
Three of the largest corporate supporters of drag racing will again be supporting the 24th Annual International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, which will be held in Gainesville, Florida, at the Paramount Plaza Hotel & Suites, March 13, 2014. The banquet will again be hosted by Bob Frey as the Master of Ceremonies.

Donna Garlits, general manager/CFO of the Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum (Ocala, Florida) disclosed that Lucas Oil Products Inc. (Corona, Calif.) will be the presenting sponsor, and the event will be known as the Lucas Oil Products 24th Annual International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Induction Banquet. Three other long-term backers of the induction banquet have returned as associate sponsors: Summit Racing Equipment; MOPAR, Chrysler Group LLC service, parts and customer-care group; and Commercial Power Cleaners.

Garlits also announced the individuals who will present the seven inductees of the Class of 2014. The inductees and their presenters are:

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.

• United Pacific Industries, located in Long Beach, California, is hiring an inside sales/customer service representative with experience in the classic car/classic truck and hot-rod product market. This position will be responsible for assisting customers with product selection; ordering processing and payment; writing up, confirming, entering and processing customer orders; coordinating shipment and handling customer inquiries.

• ECS Tuning Inc., located in Wadsworth, Ohio, is hiring a wholesale account representative with an automotive background and knowledge of the performance and replacement parts marketplace. The successful candidate will have 2–5 years of experience in an outbound sales position, excellent oral and written communication skills and have German automotive and parts knowledge.

• A-FAB LLC, located in Boonville, Indiana, is hiring an aftermarket exhaust salesperson. The successful candidate will have previous sales experience with the ability to “close” the sale, understand the aftermarket vehicle business and be able to travel for trade shows and customer visits. Previous aftermarket exhaust, parts counter/management, marketing/advertising and motorsports racing experience are pluses.

• T-REX Grilles, located in Corona, California, is hiring a marketing assistant/graphic designer/tech writer to assist the sales and marketing departments with designing, creating and delivering marketing and advertising materials. The right candidate will have knowledge of graphic design and an interest in the automotive world.

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.

• United Pacific Industries, located in Long Beach, California, is hiring an inside sales/customer service representative with experience in the classic car/classic truck and hot-rod product market. This position will be responsible for assisting customers with product selection; ordering processing and payment; writing up, confirming, entering and processing customer orders; coordinating shipment and handling customer inquiries.

• ECS Tuning Inc., located in Wadsworth, Ohio, is hiring a wholesale account representative with an automotive background and knowledge of the performance and replacement parts marketplace. The successful candidate will have 2–5 years of experience in an outbound sales position, excellent oral and written communication skills and have German automotive and parts knowledge.

• A-FAB LLC, located in Boonville, Indiana, is hiring an aftermarket exhaust salesperson. The successful candidate will have previous sales experience with the ability to “close” the sale, understand the aftermarket vehicle business and be able to travel for trade shows and customer visits. Previous aftermarket exhaust, parts counter/management, marketing/advertising and motorsports racing experience are pluses.

• T-REX Grilles, located in Corona, California, is hiring a marketing assistant/graphic designer/tech writer to assist the sales and marketing departments with designing, creating and delivering marketing and advertising materials. The right candidate will have knowledge of graphic design and an interest in the automotive world.

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 MPMC's website.

	The MPMC mixer is a chance for SEMA members to meet fellow industry professionals, motorsports manufacturers, young executives and automotive businesswomen in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Connect with Performance Professionals in Southern California

By SEMA Editors

A networking opportunity for members of the specialty-equipment industry will take place in conjunction with the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, Thursday, January 23, from 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Those traveling to the MPMC Media Trade Conference and anyone living or working in the greater Los Angeles/Orange County area are invited to attend the event. MPMC, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and the Young Executive’s Network (YEN) will host the networking mixer in the lounge of the Embassy Suites Santa Ana – Orange County Airport North.

This mixer is a chance for SEMA members to meet fellow industry professionals, motorsports manufacturers, young executives and automotive businesswomen in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Along with the cash bar, karaoke will be open throughout the evening, giving attendees an opportunity to showcase their vocal abilities.

Members planning to attend should RSVP to SEMA's Senior Manager of Networks Bryan Harrison via e-mail or at 909-978-6691.

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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 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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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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