Thu, 08/29/2013 - 13:13
By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Businesses and enthusiasts can visit the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website to learn how to title and register hobby cars in each state, meet emissions standards and fight unfair inoperable vehicle storage rules at the local level. The SAN has now added to its resource arsenal a compilation of exhaust noise laws by state.

The new exhaust noise compilation includes a map to illustrate the states that have adopted measureable exhaust noise limits, the states that prohibit “excessive or unusual noise” and the states that ban all modifications that lead to noise increases above the levels created by the factory-installed exhaust system. Below the map is a detailed list of exhaust noise statutes organized alphabetically by state. This new resource can be found online.

SEMA opposes vague laws prohibiting "excessive of unusual noise," which allow law-enforcement officers to cite any exhaust system deemed "too loud." These provisions fail to provide a clear and objective standard for those seeking more durable exhaust systems that enhance a vehicle’s appearance and increase performance by making vehicles run more efficiently without increasing emissions. Three states, including California, have enacted SEMA-model legislation to provide enthusiasts and law-enforcement officials with a fair and enforceable alternative. The model legislation establishes a 95-decibel exhaust noise limit based on an objective test standard. The SEMA-model bill for exhaust noise can be found on the SAN website by selecting the “Model Bills” option from the “Legislation” drop-down menu at the top of the website.

If you are not yet a member of the SEMA Action Network, we encourage you to join. Joining the SAN is a simple process. Most importantly, it’s free and carries no obligations. For details, contact Colby Martin at colbym@sema.org.
Thu, 08/29/2013 - 12:15
 audi

One of KGP Photography's friends in Europe caught a prototype for the ’15 Audi Q7 testing on freeway, providing a close-up look at the all-new upper-tier crossover.

The new Q7 will utilize the MLB modular architecture and will result in a Q7 that is smaller, lighter and more fuel efficient than the current model. Audi is expected to enter more crossover niches, meaning that the Q7 is expected to be flanked by Q6 and Q8 models. The new, even-numbered crossover offerings destined for the Audi model range has necessitated the fully re-imagined Q7 prototype captured here, leaving room at the top end of the market for the Q8, which will try to become a true flagship for the Audi lineup.

A new 10-speed dual-clutch automative transmission is expected to be offered in the Q7, which will eventually proliferate throughout the Audi model range.

The Q7 should bow late next year, although its debut could be put off for the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

 audi

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 12:15
 audi

One of KGP Photography's friends in Europe caught a prototype for the ’15 Audi Q7 testing on freeway, providing a close-up look at the all-new upper-tier crossover.

The new Q7 will utilize the MLB modular architecture and will result in a Q7 that is smaller, lighter and more fuel efficient than the current model. Audi is expected to enter more crossover niches, meaning that the Q7 is expected to be flanked by Q6 and Q8 models. The new, even-numbered crossover offerings destined for the Audi model range has necessitated the fully re-imagined Q7 prototype captured here, leaving room at the top end of the market for the Q8, which will try to become a true flagship for the Audi lineup.

A new 10-speed dual-clutch automative transmission is expected to be offered in the Q7, which will eventually proliferate throughout the Audi model range.

The Q7 should bow late next year, although its debut could be put off for the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

 audi

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 12:15
 audi

One of KGP Photography's friends in Europe caught a prototype for the ’15 Audi Q7 testing on freeway, providing a close-up look at the all-new upper-tier crossover.

The new Q7 will utilize the MLB modular architecture and will result in a Q7 that is smaller, lighter and more fuel efficient than the current model. Audi is expected to enter more crossover niches, meaning that the Q7 is expected to be flanked by Q6 and Q8 models. The new, even-numbered crossover offerings destined for the Audi model range has necessitated the fully re-imagined Q7 prototype captured here, leaving room at the top end of the market for the Q8, which will try to become a true flagship for the Audi lineup.

A new 10-speed dual-clutch automative transmission is expected to be offered in the Q7, which will eventually proliferate throughout the Audi model range.

The Q7 should bow late next year, although its debut could be put off for the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

 audi

Photo credit: KGP Photography

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 11:59

By SEMA Editors

  directory
  

Used by professionals to connect and network, the SEMA Membership Directory is where leading companies go to identify and establish partnerships with others in the industry.

Updated annually, the guidebook includes detailed information that is helpful for all types of industry professionals. Easy-to-use listings make it simple to identify members in particular categories, council affiliation or reps serving certain locations. The electronic (PDF) version of the directory is immediately available for download by adding this item to your shopping cart, and the best part is that it’s free to SEMA members.

For more information about the SEMA Membership Directory, contact SEMA’s customer service team at member@sema.org or 909-610-2030.

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 11:59

By SEMA Editors

  directory
  

Used by professionals to connect and network, the SEMA Membership Directory is where leading companies go to identify and establish partnerships with others in the industry.

Updated annually, the guidebook includes detailed information that is helpful for all types of industry professionals. Easy-to-use listings make it simple to identify members in particular categories, council affiliation or reps serving certain locations. The electronic (PDF) version of the directory is immediately available for download by adding this item to your shopping cart, and the best part is that it’s free to SEMA members.

For more information about the SEMA Membership Directory, contact SEMA’s customer service team at member@sema.org or 909-610-2030.

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 11:47

By Zane Clark

  dealer
The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show.
  

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) have joined forces to offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show focusing on creating dealership profit centers through accessorization.

Whether you sell new- or late-model vehicles, now is the time to discover ways to dramatically increase sales and profits. Participate in the SEMA Auto Dealer sessions and take the lead in your market.

Maximizing Dealership Profitability With Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Tuesday, November 5, 2013, from 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N253
Ellen McKoy, Trucking Times magazine, and Ron Leslie, Katzkin, will join two franchised dealers.

Accessorizing is the cornerstone to building high-margin profit centers. Learn how your dealership can capture its share of the lucrative accessory business. Hear from the experts as they share insights on industry trends and provide proven strategies on how to implement a successful accessory program. A must-attend session for any franchised dealership principal or manager looking to accelerate sales and profits and outmaneuver the competition.

The New Car Dealer’s Opportunity in Automotive Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N256
Steve Bruyn, Foresight Research

When the dealer experience includes the retailing of automotive accessories, a new profit opportunity is the result. How big is that opportunity and what are the specifics about what customers expect? That is the subject of this SEMA education session. Learn what the most popular automotive accessories are by segment. It’s no longer just about pickups and SUVs. Women and Baby Boomers are spending big money on accessories, and they likely will continue on this path. Which vehicle brands are most often accessorized and how much do customers spend? Do buyers accessorize at the time of new-car delivery or later? Do accessories play a role in dealer selection? These are some of the questions that will be addressed.

Auto Dealers: Creating the Best Possible Sales Team, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Maria Grande, Grande Consulting

We will reveal the top motivators for the four personality styles, helping you identify the strengths of your current sales team and showing you how to create better synergy. We will also help you appeal to the internal and external customer on a different level to build relationships and increase sales.

Used-Vehicle Accessorizing: The New Profit Center, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Thursday, November 7, 2013, from 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Ellen Mckoy, Trucking Times magazine; Dave Edmondson, Roadwire; Lou Tedeschi, president, A.S.P.I. Motor Cars; Fred Petrivelli, Keystone Automotive; Zane Clark, SEMA

Whether you’re an independent used-car dealer or manage the used-car department in a franchised dealership, this session is for you. Learn from a panel of experts how to use accessories to turn late-model cars and trucks into eye-catching profit generators. Discover new ways to speed inventory turns, drive up sales and profits and set your dealership apart from the competition.

For a complete list of educational sessions visit www.SEMAShow.com/Education. Auto Dealer Sessions are free with your SEMA Show registration.

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 11:47

By Zane Clark

  dealer
The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show.
  

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) have joined forces to offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show focusing on creating dealership profit centers through accessorization.

Whether you sell new- or late-model vehicles, now is the time to discover ways to dramatically increase sales and profits. Participate in the SEMA Auto Dealer sessions and take the lead in your market.

Maximizing Dealership Profitability With Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Tuesday, November 5, 2013, from 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N253
Ellen McKoy, Trucking Times magazine, and Ron Leslie, Katzkin, will join two franchised dealers.

Accessorizing is the cornerstone to building high-margin profit centers. Learn how your dealership can capture its share of the lucrative accessory business. Hear from the experts as they share insights on industry trends and provide proven strategies on how to implement a successful accessory program. A must-attend session for any franchised dealership principal or manager looking to accelerate sales and profits and outmaneuver the competition.

The New Car Dealer’s Opportunity in Automotive Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N256
Steve Bruyn, Foresight Research

When the dealer experience includes the retailing of automotive accessories, a new profit opportunity is the result. How big is that opportunity and what are the specifics about what customers expect? That is the subject of this SEMA education session. Learn what the most popular automotive accessories are by segment. It’s no longer just about pickups and SUVs. Women and Baby Boomers are spending big money on accessories, and they likely will continue on this path. Which vehicle brands are most often accessorized and how much do customers spend? Do buyers accessorize at the time of new-car delivery or later? Do accessories play a role in dealer selection? These are some of the questions that will be addressed.

Auto Dealers: Creating the Best Possible Sales Team, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Maria Grande, Grande Consulting

We will reveal the top motivators for the four personality styles, helping you identify the strengths of your current sales team and showing you how to create better synergy. We will also help you appeal to the internal and external customer on a different level to build relationships and increase sales.

Used-Vehicle Accessorizing: The New Profit Center, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Thursday, November 7, 2013, from 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Ellen Mckoy, Trucking Times magazine; Dave Edmondson, Roadwire; Lou Tedeschi, president, A.S.P.I. Motor Cars; Fred Petrivelli, Keystone Automotive; Zane Clark, SEMA

Whether you’re an independent used-car dealer or manage the used-car department in a franchised dealership, this session is for you. Learn from a panel of experts how to use accessories to turn late-model cars and trucks into eye-catching profit generators. Discover new ways to speed inventory turns, drive up sales and profits and set your dealership apart from the competition.

For a complete list of educational sessions visit www.SEMAShow.com/Education. Auto Dealer Sessions are free with your SEMA Show registration.

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 11:47

By Zane Clark

  dealer
The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show.
  

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) have joined forces to offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show focusing on creating dealership profit centers through accessorization.

Whether you sell new- or late-model vehicles, now is the time to discover ways to dramatically increase sales and profits. Participate in the SEMA Auto Dealer sessions and take the lead in your market.

Maximizing Dealership Profitability With Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Tuesday, November 5, 2013, from 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N253
Ellen McKoy, Trucking Times magazine, and Ron Leslie, Katzkin, will join two franchised dealers.

Accessorizing is the cornerstone to building high-margin profit centers. Learn how your dealership can capture its share of the lucrative accessory business. Hear from the experts as they share insights on industry trends and provide proven strategies on how to implement a successful accessory program. A must-attend session for any franchised dealership principal or manager looking to accelerate sales and profits and outmaneuver the competition.

The New Car Dealer’s Opportunity in Automotive Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N256
Steve Bruyn, Foresight Research

When the dealer experience includes the retailing of automotive accessories, a new profit opportunity is the result. How big is that opportunity and what are the specifics about what customers expect? That is the subject of this SEMA education session. Learn what the most popular automotive accessories are by segment. It’s no longer just about pickups and SUVs. Women and Baby Boomers are spending big money on accessories, and they likely will continue on this path. Which vehicle brands are most often accessorized and how much do customers spend? Do buyers accessorize at the time of new-car delivery or later? Do accessories play a role in dealer selection? These are some of the questions that will be addressed.

Auto Dealers: Creating the Best Possible Sales Team, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Maria Grande, Grande Consulting

We will reveal the top motivators for the four personality styles, helping you identify the strengths of your current sales team and showing you how to create better synergy. We will also help you appeal to the internal and external customer on a different level to build relationships and increase sales.

Used-Vehicle Accessorizing: The New Profit Center, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Thursday, November 7, 2013, from 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Ellen Mckoy, Trucking Times magazine; Dave Edmondson, Roadwire; Lou Tedeschi, president, A.S.P.I. Motor Cars; Fred Petrivelli, Keystone Automotive; Zane Clark, SEMA

Whether you’re an independent used-car dealer or manage the used-car department in a franchised dealership, this session is for you. Learn from a panel of experts how to use accessories to turn late-model cars and trucks into eye-catching profit generators. Discover new ways to speed inventory turns, drive up sales and profits and set your dealership apart from the competition.

For a complete list of educational sessions visit www.SEMAShow.com/Education. Auto Dealer Sessions are free with your SEMA Show registration.

Thu, 08/29/2013 - 11:47

By Zane Clark

  dealer
The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show.
  

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) have joined forces to offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show focusing on creating dealership profit centers through accessorization.

Whether you sell new- or late-model vehicles, now is the time to discover ways to dramatically increase sales and profits. Participate in the SEMA Auto Dealer sessions and take the lead in your market.

Maximizing Dealership Profitability With Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Tuesday, November 5, 2013, from 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N253
Ellen McKoy, Trucking Times magazine, and Ron Leslie, Katzkin, will join two franchised dealers.

Accessorizing is the cornerstone to building high-margin profit centers. Learn how your dealership can capture its share of the lucrative accessory business. Hear from the experts as they share insights on industry trends and provide proven strategies on how to implement a successful accessory program. A must-attend session for any franchised dealership principal or manager looking to accelerate sales and profits and outmaneuver the competition.

The New Car Dealer’s Opportunity in Automotive Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N256
Steve Bruyn, Foresight Research

When the dealer experience includes the retailing of automotive accessories, a new profit opportunity is the result. How big is that opportunity and what are the specifics about what customers expect? That is the subject of this SEMA education session. Learn what the most popular automotive accessories are by segment. It’s no longer just about pickups and SUVs. Women and Baby Boomers are spending big money on accessories, and they likely will continue on this path. Which vehicle brands are most often accessorized and how much do customers spend? Do buyers accessorize at the time of new-car delivery or later? Do accessories play a role in dealer selection? These are some of the questions that will be addressed.

Auto Dealers: Creating the Best Possible Sales Team, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Maria Grande, Grande Consulting

We will reveal the top motivators for the four personality styles, helping you identify the strengths of your current sales team and showing you how to create better synergy. We will also help you appeal to the internal and external customer on a different level to build relationships and increase sales.

Used-Vehicle Accessorizing: The New Profit Center, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Thursday, November 7, 2013, from 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Ellen Mckoy, Trucking Times magazine; Dave Edmondson, Roadwire; Lou Tedeschi, president, A.S.P.I. Motor Cars; Fred Petrivelli, Keystone Automotive; Zane Clark, SEMA

Whether you’re an independent used-car dealer or manage the used-car department in a franchised dealership, this session is for you. Learn from a panel of experts how to use accessories to turn late-model cars and trucks into eye-catching profit generators. Discover new ways to speed inventory turns, drive up sales and profits and set your dealership apart from the competition.

For a complete list of educational sessions visit www.SEMAShow.com/Education. Auto Dealer Sessions are free with your SEMA Show registration.