For one week each year, the SEMA Show gathers the largest collection of outfitted, upgraded dirt shredders, people haulers and street machines that exist with the specialty-equipment industry. With the intent of turning heads, sparking ideas and igniting the imagination, these vehicles serve as mobile canvases for technicians and product engineers to realize their creative visions and provide a visual representation of what the industry and its companies are all about.

A new photo collection of the vehicles that helped make the 2012 SEMA Show a visual extravaganza are included each week in SEMA eNews. This week's collection features a collection of vehicles from Dodge.

For one week each year, the SEMA Show gathers the largest collection of outfitted, upgraded dirt shredders, people haulers and street machines that exist with the specialty-equipment industry. With the intent of turning heads, sparking ideas and igniting the imagination, these vehicles serve as mobile canvases for technicians and product engineers to realize their creative visions and provide a visual representation of what the industry and its companies are all about.

A new photo collection of the vehicles that helped make the 2012 SEMA Show a visual extravaganza are included each week in SEMA eNews. This week's collection features a collection of vehicles from Dodge.

The shooters at KGP Photography caught a prototype for the next GMC Sierra Denali in the middle of a test convoy full of the next-generation trucks. Amid all of the test trucks, two of the prototypes were still wearing some front-end camouflage, and behind it was a new grille treatment that looks completely consistent with the Sierra's top-end Denali trim. These shots prove that the Denali trim level will continue into the next-generation Sierras, offering a level of luxury perhaps even more important to some GM truck buyers with the pending cancellation of the Cadillac Escalade EXT pickup variants. Until GM confirms a future pickup for the Cadillac model range, this Denali will likely be the most luxurious truck offered throughout the GM brands.

The front grille shows an opening devoid of horizontal slats and made up entirely of a perforated, billet-style design. The grille looks like it's done in a matte finish on this prototype, but something fully chromed in its final showroom trim is expected.

The Denali's interior will likely improve on the materials used in standard GMC Sierras. Besides different badging, all of the exterior visual changes are expected to be found on the front fascia. The Denali prototype in these photos was clearly rocking Rancho shocks, adding something a bit more than showy chrome and leather to the Denali's option sheet.

While there are no specifics on the official debut of the ’14 GMC Sierra Denali, last year's New York Auto Show (NYAS) hosted the debut of the GMC Terrain Denali. So it wouldn't be surprising to see this Sierra Denali hit the 2013 NYAS in a couple weeks.

Photo Credit: KGP Photography

The shooters at KGP Photography caught a prototype for the next GMC Sierra Denali in the middle of a test convoy full of the next-generation trucks. Amid all of the test trucks, two of the prototypes were still wearing some front-end camouflage, and behind it was a new grille treatment that looks completely consistent with the Sierra's top-end Denali trim. These shots prove that the Denali trim level will continue into the next-generation Sierras, offering a level of luxury perhaps even more important to some GM truck buyers with the pending cancellation of the Cadillac Escalade EXT pickup variants. Until GM confirms a future pickup for the Cadillac model range, this Denali will likely be the most luxurious truck offered throughout the GM brands.

The front grille shows an opening devoid of horizontal slats and made up entirely of a perforated, billet-style design. The grille looks like it's done in a matte finish on this prototype, but something fully chromed in its final showroom trim is expected.

The Denali's interior will likely improve on the materials used in standard GMC Sierras. Besides different badging, all of the exterior visual changes are expected to be found on the front fascia. The Denali prototype in these photos was clearly rocking Rancho shocks, adding something a bit more than showy chrome and leather to the Denali's option sheet.

While there are no specifics on the official debut of the ’14 GMC Sierra Denali, last year's New York Auto Show (NYAS) hosted the debut of the GMC Terrain Denali. So it wouldn't be surprising to see this Sierra Denali hit the 2013 NYAS in a couple weeks.

Photo Credit: KGP Photography

The shooters at KGP Photography caught a prototype for the next GMC Sierra Denali in the middle of a test convoy full of the next-generation trucks. Amid all of the test trucks, two of the prototypes were still wearing some front-end camouflage, and behind it was a new grille treatment that looks completely consistent with the Sierra's top-end Denali trim. These shots prove that the Denali trim level will continue into the next-generation Sierras, offering a level of luxury perhaps even more important to some GM truck buyers with the pending cancellation of the Cadillac Escalade EXT pickup variants. Until GM confirms a future pickup for the Cadillac model range, this Denali will likely be the most luxurious truck offered throughout the GM brands.

The front grille shows an opening devoid of horizontal slats and made up entirely of a perforated, billet-style design. The grille looks like it's done in a matte finish on this prototype, but something fully chromed in its final showroom trim is expected.

The Denali's interior will likely improve on the materials used in standard GMC Sierras. Besides different badging, all of the exterior visual changes are expected to be found on the front fascia. The Denali prototype in these photos was clearly rocking Rancho shocks, adding something a bit more than showy chrome and leather to the Denali's option sheet.

While there are no specifics on the official debut of the ’14 GMC Sierra Denali, last year's New York Auto Show (NYAS) hosted the debut of the GMC Terrain Denali. So it wouldn't be surprising to see this Sierra Denali hit the 2013 NYAS in a couple weeks.

Photo Credit: KGP Photography

	Shelly Urwiler has been named the national sales manager for wheel manufacturer American Force Wheels Inc.

Shelly Urwiler to Lead American Force Sales Team
Shelly Urwiler has been named the national sales manager for wheel manufacturer American Force Wheels Inc. Urwiler is tasked with new business development, which includes securing new markets for American Force specialty wheels and accessories, while serving existing customers. Prior to joining American Force, Urwiler had served since 2008 as sales executive for the West Coast Division of Vision Wheel Inc. From 2005 to 2008 he was outside sales manager for Ultra Wheel Co. in Fullerton, California.

"We're excited to welcome Shelly to our team to help American Force realize its true potential," said American Force President Ray Shadravan. "He has in-depth knowledge and many years of experience in the wheel industry as well as solid relationships with the industry's major distributors. We expect great things and are very much looking forward to having him on our team."

Urwiler has also served four terms as a select committee member of SEMA's Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). His contributions to the aftermarket wheel industry have earned him two nominations for the WTC's Lifetime Achievement Award.  

ReadyLIFT Hires Steve Swanson as Vice President of Sales
ReadyLIFT Suspension Inc. hired Steve Swanson as vice president of sales to head up all of the company's domestic and international corporate sales efforts. Swanson's tenure in the automotive aftermarket industry spans more than 40 years, and he has experience with multiple market channels, including retail, e-tail, wholesale distribution, chassis builders and more. He has served on the SEMA Board of Directors and as a member of several SEMA councils and committees.

"With the rapid growth we have been enjoying here at ReadyLIFT," said Scott Poncher, ReadyLIFT founder and chief executive officer, "it was time to enhance our sales and operations management with an eye towards our future. We believe Steve brings the skill set necessary to capitalize on our core capabilities and help us bring about the continued growth we all expect." With the Swanson hiring, Steve Robinson assumes the position of national sales manager, while Ryan Pelkey will continue to serve as western regional sales manager.

Jim Leddy, a 25-year veteran of the automotive aftermarket, was named national sales manager for Revolution Supply/Oro-Tek.

Jim Leddy Named National Sales Manager Revolution Supply/Oro-Tek
Revolution Supply/Oro-Tek named Jim Leddy national sales manager. According to the company, Leddy has more than 25 years of automotive aftermarket experience, including senior national sales manager for Magnaflow Performance Products, as well as 20 years with Midas as national sales manager. Most recently, Leddy was with Mickey Thompson as sales manager covering the West Coast. He will be involved with taking Revolution Supply/Oro-Tek products into the automotive aftermarket.

Lund Acquires Prestige Fender Flare Assets
Lund International Holding Co. announced the acquisition of Prestige Fender Flare assets of Empower Group Inc. Prestige Fender Flares is a designer and producer of premium-quality fender flares sold throughout the United States. According to a release, Prestige Fender Flare co-founders Anthony Liu and Robert Chen will join Lund in a management capacity focusing on new product development. Lund President Mitch Fogle said, "The addition of Prestige's fender flares to the Lund family of products solidifies our leadership in the automotive aftermarket accessories industry. We look forward to working with Anthony and Robert to maximize the potential of the excellent product offering they have developed and exploit their combined new product ideas."

Lund International Holding Co. is a portfolio company of Highlander Partners L.P. Prestige is the first add-on acquisition completed by Lund under Highlander's ownership. 

M7 Tuning Now a Subsidiary of MyteeBrite Group Inc.
MyteeBrite Group Inc. has acquired M7 Tuning as a new subsidiary. M7 is a manufacturer of late-model, MINI-specific performance products, including engine enhancers, suspension components, body upgrades and accessories. M7 is the newest member of the MyteeBrite family, which includes Autopart-Performance.com, Streetcarmuscle.com, EVOperformancemods.com, Shocks-coilovers.com and Gobigdiesel.com. “Quality, innovation, technical support and customer service will continue to be the driving force behind M7 Tuning,” said Mark Catania, CEO and founder of the MyteeBrite Group. "Expect to see continued and expanded involvement in the MINI lifestyle, including attendance at more shows and racing events, along with an expanded line of new products."

	Jim Browning, founder and former president of Corsa Performance Exhaust, has formed a new brand—Ultimate Headers—through his company, Jim Browning & Co. Designers LLC.

Jim Browning Announces the Launch of Ultimate Headers
Jim Browning, president of Jim Browning & Co. Designers LLC, has formed a new brand—Ultimate Headers. Browning, who is the founder and former president of Corsa Performance Exhaust, explained that Ultimate Headers will manufacture and market premium-level headers through the company's headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Berea, Ohio. "The company's mission is to provide a product to the automotive market which combines the finest quality materials and workmanship, and delivering utility and aesthetic appearance to the user," stated Browning. The company announced plans to begin shipping product in early April. The initial product offering is designed for installing late-model GM LS-series engines in older cars and trucks.  

Del City Announces New West Coast Warehouse
Del City has announced the opening of a new West Coast distribution center located in Reno, Nevada. The new facility enables Del City to deliver products to customers in the Western United States within one to two days. Del City's service offering also includes free shipping on orders more than $99, $0 order minimums and thousands of products in stock.

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

By Arlene Wood

	SEMA's council leaders.

Nominations for a Select Committee seat on one of SEMA's councils and member networks are now open.

Do you have a business challenge that goes beyond the walls of your shop? See a change in the market that needs to be made? Have an idea but need some industry muscle to make it happen? Then it may be time for you to volunteer to be an industry leader and make your voice heard.

The Select Committee serves as the volunteer leadership body for the entire membership of a specific council or network. These volunteers are in tune with their market and have the drive needed to influence change. Elected volunteers are entrusted to direct SEMA resources toward building solutions to matters facing the industry, benefits and opportunities that help companies succeed and prosper. 
There are currently 10 council and network groups within SEMA, and each represents a collection of SEMA members who share a common business purpose or market segment. Councils work to identify related business goals, issues and challenges that require a special focus by the association.

Find out who is currently involved in SEMA's councils and networks and follow the link to the group that supports your interests.

Get started now by using the online council nominations form; it's quick and easy to complete, and no printing or faxing is required. All nominations must be received by 5:00 p.m. (PDT) March 22, 2013.



For more information on SEMA's councils and committees or the nomination and election process, contact Arlene Wood at arlenew@sema.org.

By Arlene Wood

	SEMA's council leaders.

Nominations for a Select Committee seat on one of SEMA's councils and member networks are now open.

Do you have a business challenge that goes beyond the walls of your shop? See a change in the market that needs to be made? Have an idea but need some industry muscle to make it happen? Then it may be time for you to volunteer to be an industry leader and make your voice heard.

The Select Committee serves as the volunteer leadership body for the entire membership of a specific council or network. These volunteers are in tune with their market and have the drive needed to influence change. Elected volunteers are entrusted to direct SEMA resources toward building solutions to matters facing the industry, benefits and opportunities that help companies succeed and prosper. 
There are currently 10 council and network groups within SEMA, and each represents a collection of SEMA members who share a common business purpose or market segment. Councils work to identify related business goals, issues and challenges that require a special focus by the association.

Find out who is currently involved in SEMA's councils and networks and follow the link to the group that supports your interests.

Get started now by using the online council nominations form; it's quick and easy to complete, and no printing or faxing is required. All nominations must be received by 5:00 p.m. (PDT) March 22, 2013.



For more information on SEMA's councils and committees or the nomination and election process, contact Arlene Wood at arlenew@sema.org.

By Arlene Wood

	SEMA's council leaders.

Nominations for a Select Committee seat on one of SEMA's councils and member networks are now open.

Do you have a business challenge that goes beyond the walls of your shop? See a change in the market that needs to be made? Have an idea but need some industry muscle to make it happen? Then it may be time for you to volunteer to be an industry leader and make your voice heard.

The Select Committee serves as the volunteer leadership body for the entire membership of a specific council or network. These volunteers are in tune with their market and have the drive needed to influence change. Elected volunteers are entrusted to direct SEMA resources toward building solutions to matters facing the industry, benefits and opportunities that help companies succeed and prosper. 
There are currently 10 council and network groups within SEMA, and each represents a collection of SEMA members who share a common business purpose or market segment. Councils work to identify related business goals, issues and challenges that require a special focus by the association.

Find out who is currently involved in SEMA's councils and networks and follow the link to the group that supports your interests.

Get started now by using the online council nominations form; it's quick and easy to complete, and no printing or faxing is required. All nominations must be received by 5:00 p.m. (PDT) March 22, 2013.



For more information on SEMA's councils and committees or the nomination and election process, contact Arlene Wood at arlenew@sema.org.

By SEMA Staff

SEMA and UPS have joined forces to offer a reliable solution designed to save SEMA members a minimum of 72% on UPS Freight less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping for shipments above 150 lbs.

Automotive manufacturers and suppliers ship goods frequently across the United States and beyond, but many companies don’t have enough volume to fill an entire truck. SEMA and UPS have joined forces to offer a reliable solution designed to save SEMA members a minimum of 72% on UPS Freight less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping for shipments above 150 lbs.

LTL is backed by a day-definite, on-time guarantee. The service guarantees all shipments moving within the continental United States and Canada are rated on the current 560 or 525 UPS tariffs at no additional charge.

UPS technology solutions, such as Worldship, make it easy to process LTL shipments, schedule pickups, rate shipments and print out bills of lading. Quantum View, a web-based service, provides shipment information, status updates and event alerts for inbound and outbound freight shipments.

To take advantage of all that UPS offers SEMA members, visit www.SEMA.org/UPS, log-in with your SEMA-member credentials and then click the “Sign Up and Save Today” button to access the UPS program enrollment web site. To speak with a UPS customer representative regarding LTL Freight shipping, call 866-443-9303.