Performance Parts & Accessories Expo This Weekend
Racer's Equipment Warehouse will hold its Performance Parts & Accessories Expo this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, March 2–3, at 111 Commerce Dr., Warwick, Rhode Island. For the second consecutive year, the Saturday of the expo is open to the public. The cost of admission is one can of food per person as a donation to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. The expo also provides jobbers and members of the trade, as well as their customers, the opportunity to meet with accessory and performance manufacturers face to face. Registration, which is required for the Jobber/Trade Show and Sunday, is available on the Racer's Equipment Warehouse website.

Chris Berg Joins Sports Car Club of America Inc., SCCA Pro Racing
Sports Car Club of America Inc. and SCCA Pro Racing have named Chris Berg public relations coordinator, a newly created position that serves roles in both organizations. Berg will provide event coverage and serve as the main contact for on-site media on behalf of SCCA Pro Racing at each Mazda MX-5 Cup and Pirelli World Challenge Championship race. Berg will also handle other assignments for SCCA’s Club Racing, Solo and Rally divisions. Berg comes to SCCA with two years of motorsports public relations experience with a Kansas City-based karting organization. In addition to his public relations experience, Berg has also worked as a freelance journalist since 2004, covering a variety of subjects, including higher education and college sports. The vast majority of that time was spent covering motorsports for a variety of media outlets. 

	Kevin Doyle, new sales and marketing manager for Perma-Cool, has 25 years of experience in automotive sales and marketing.

Kevin Doyle Named Perma-Cool Sales & Marketing Manager
Perma-Cool Products has appointed Kevin Doyle to sales and marketing manager. According to the company, Doyle will be responsible for domestic and international sales with an emphasis on expanding its distribution base, as well as marketing, which includes advertising, brand management and media relations. Doyle, who has 25 years of experience in automotive sales and marketing, most recently served as sales and marketing manager for Global West Suspension.

Car Guy Nation and Dudepins Form Marketing Partnership
Car Guy Nation has formed a marketing partnership with Dudepins, a website for "men to discover and share everything that's manly." According to a recent release from Car Guy Nation, Dudepins lets men organize and share their interests, such as fancy rides, latest styles, good eats, dream destinations and more. This is Car Guy Nation's first partnership with a lifestyle website working on the same revenue-share agreement. Dudepins will receive a percentage of total spent by new members referred to Car Guy Nation.

QA1 Celebrates 20 Years in Business
QA1 is celebrating 20 years in business in 2013. As part of its anniversary celebration, QA1 announced its plans to host several events, including its 2nd Annual Open House and Cruise in conjunction with the Car Craft Summer Nationals, Friday, July 19. For more information, visit www.qa1.net/cruise. “I’m very proud of the accomplishments and progress of the company over the last 20 years,” said founder and CEO Jim Jordan. “I’m excited to see where we can take QA1 in the future.”

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 SEMA Staff

	The Silverado is available for SEMA Show project vehicle proposals.

This year’s Chevrolet SEMA Project Vehicle Program will focus on designers and manufacturers dedicated to creating new accessories and vehicle personalization items for Chevrolet's ’14 vehicles.

Vehicles available include:

• Silverado (light-duty crew cab only)
• Sonic
• Impala
• Camaro

Requirements:

• Preservation of brand emblem on front and rear of vehicle
• High level of paint and build quality; no wraps
• Sponsorship decals to be limited to the lower 1/3 of the vehicle side
• Commit to periodic design and build check-ins
• Promote vehicle through November 4, 2014
• Retain vehicle insurance totaling at least $3 million until the completion of the contract
• Submit proposal by April 30, 2013

Proposals must include:

• An introductory letter defining the vehicle theme, content and SEMA Show display location
• An exterior rendering with the intended colors and modifications accurately defined
• A build timeline with start and completion dates
• A detailed list of upgrades and modifications
• A promotional plan
• Three printed copies mailed to the address listed below

Builders are urged to contact Tom Gardner at thomas.gardner@gm.com before submitting a formal proposal to discuss the vehicle theme and modifications.

Send proposals to:

Tom Gardner
Mail Code: 480-717-004
GM Technical Center – AEC Building
30003 Van Dyke Ave.
Office 168-04
Warren, MI 48090-9060

By SEMA Staff

	The Silverado is available for SEMA Show project vehicle proposals.

This year’s Chevrolet SEMA Project Vehicle Program will focus on designers and manufacturers dedicated to creating new accessories and vehicle personalization items for Chevrolet's ’14 vehicles.

Vehicles available include:

• Silverado (light-duty crew cab only)
• Sonic
• Impala
• Camaro

Requirements:

• Preservation of brand emblem on front and rear of vehicle
• High level of paint and build quality; no wraps
• Sponsorship decals to be limited to the lower 1/3 of the vehicle side
• Commit to periodic design and build check-ins
• Promote vehicle through November 4, 2014
• Retain vehicle insurance totaling at least $3 million until the completion of the contract
• Submit proposal by April 30, 2013

Proposals must include:

• An introductory letter defining the vehicle theme, content and SEMA Show display location
• An exterior rendering with the intended colors and modifications accurately defined
• A build timeline with start and completion dates
• A detailed list of upgrades and modifications
• A promotional plan
• Three printed copies mailed to the address listed below

Builders are urged to contact Tom Gardner at thomas.gardner@gm.com before submitting a formal proposal to discuss the vehicle theme and modifications.

Send proposals to:

Tom Gardner
Mail Code: 480-717-004
GM Technical Center – AEC Building
30003 Van Dyke Ave.
Office 168-04
Warren, MI 48090-9060

By SEMA Staff

	The Silverado is available for SEMA Show project vehicle proposals.

This year’s Chevrolet SEMA Project Vehicle Program will focus on designers and manufacturers dedicated to creating new accessories and vehicle personalization items for Chevrolet's ’14 vehicles.

Vehicles available include:

• Silverado (light-duty crew cab only)
• Sonic
• Impala
• Camaro

Requirements:

• Preservation of brand emblem on front and rear of vehicle
• High level of paint and build quality; no wraps
• Sponsorship decals to be limited to the lower 1/3 of the vehicle side
• Commit to periodic design and build check-ins
• Promote vehicle through November 4, 2014
• Retain vehicle insurance totaling at least $3 million until the completion of the contract
• Submit proposal by April 30, 2013

Proposals must include:

• An introductory letter defining the vehicle theme, content and SEMA Show display location
• An exterior rendering with the intended colors and modifications accurately defined
• A build timeline with start and completion dates
• A detailed list of upgrades and modifications
• A promotional plan
• Three printed copies mailed to the address listed below

Builders are urged to contact Tom Gardner at thomas.gardner@gm.com before submitting a formal proposal to discuss the vehicle theme and modifications.

Send proposals to:

Tom Gardner
Mail Code: 480-717-004
GM Technical Center – AEC Building
30003 Van Dyke Ave.
Office 168-04
Warren, MI 48090-9060

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 different Camaro models and styles.

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 different Camaro models and styles.

By SEMA Staff

	William J. Long

Robert (Bob) Hirsch, president of the Aftermarket Foundation, has announced the appointment of William J. (Bill) Long, president and chief operating officer of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) to its board.

“On behalf of the entire board, I am very pleased to welcome Bill to the board of the foundation,” said Hirsch. “Bill’s rich industry background and credentials will further strengthen our board and broaden its reach within our industry sector, and we thank him for his willingness to serve for the common good of the less fortunate in our industry.”

Having joined the association as executive vice president in May 2012, Long assumed the role of president and chief operating officer of the AASA in late 2012, from his previous role as president of Long Strategies LLC and managing partner of BC Partners LLC. Long’s previous experience spans several decades in the aftermarket, formerly as executive vice president of North American operations at Proliance International, and a 25-year career with Echlin/Dana in several executive leadership roles directing the company’s BWD Automotive, Borg-Warner, Napa Echlin, Ristance, Auto-Tune, Hurst Shifter, Mr. Gasket and Beck/Arnley WorldParts businesses. Long’s career also includes senior leadership roles in the motorsports industry having served as vice president of marketing for the IndyCar Series headquartered at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and vice president and corporate officer of NASCAR’s Weekly Racing and Touring Series

Long has been recognized for his industry contributions with a number of awards, including the MEMA Triangle award (1999); Northwood University’s Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award (2000), recognizing both his work with federal lawmakers and technical experts on issues concerning the Clean Air Act and onboard auto diagnostics; and the Jack Arute Sr. Excellence in Motorsports Award in 2001 for his contribution and dedication to the motorsports industry. Long also served in 2002 as the chairman of the National Car Care Council.

Hirsch pointed out that the motto of the foundation is “We take care of our own,” adding, “Bill has demonstrated tremendous capability and achievement in his career to date, and we know that the foundation will benefit from his skill and commitment, as we continue ‘taking care of our own.’”

Since 1959, the Aftermarket Foundation has assisted individuals and families of the automotive aftermarket industry who have fallen on hard times due to an unexpected death, catastrophic injury, serious illness or financial hardship. Board members are called upon to assist in the fundraising efforts of the foundation and also identifying those in need.

In addition to his general board duties, Long will also work on the foundation’s Recipient Review Committee and Marketing & Communications Committee. Marketing Committee Chair Terence O’Reilly stated, “Bill’s extensive background and expertise in marketing and communications is a welcome addition to our committee and will help us refine our Awareness Program and further extend the reach of the Aftermarket Foundation to those in need. We are very fortunate indeed to have someone of Bill’s caliber join in active duty on the committee and look forward to the benefits his contributions will make.”

By SEMA Staff

	William J. Long

Robert (Bob) Hirsch, president of the Aftermarket Foundation, has announced the appointment of William J. (Bill) Long, president and chief operating officer of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) to its board.

“On behalf of the entire board, I am very pleased to welcome Bill to the board of the foundation,” said Hirsch. “Bill’s rich industry background and credentials will further strengthen our board and broaden its reach within our industry sector, and we thank him for his willingness to serve for the common good of the less fortunate in our industry.”

Having joined the association as executive vice president in May 2012, Long assumed the role of president and chief operating officer of the AASA in late 2012, from his previous role as president of Long Strategies LLC and managing partner of BC Partners LLC. Long’s previous experience spans several decades in the aftermarket, formerly as executive vice president of North American operations at Proliance International, and a 25-year career with Echlin/Dana in several executive leadership roles directing the company’s BWD Automotive, Borg-Warner, Napa Echlin, Ristance, Auto-Tune, Hurst Shifter, Mr. Gasket and Beck/Arnley WorldParts businesses. Long’s career also includes senior leadership roles in the motorsports industry having served as vice president of marketing for the IndyCar Series headquartered at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and vice president and corporate officer of NASCAR’s Weekly Racing and Touring Series

Long has been recognized for his industry contributions with a number of awards, including the MEMA Triangle award (1999); Northwood University’s Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award (2000), recognizing both his work with federal lawmakers and technical experts on issues concerning the Clean Air Act and onboard auto diagnostics; and the Jack Arute Sr. Excellence in Motorsports Award in 2001 for his contribution and dedication to the motorsports industry. Long also served in 2002 as the chairman of the National Car Care Council.

Hirsch pointed out that the motto of the foundation is “We take care of our own,” adding, “Bill has demonstrated tremendous capability and achievement in his career to date, and we know that the foundation will benefit from his skill and commitment, as we continue ‘taking care of our own.’”

Since 1959, the Aftermarket Foundation has assisted individuals and families of the automotive aftermarket industry who have fallen on hard times due to an unexpected death, catastrophic injury, serious illness or financial hardship. Board members are called upon to assist in the fundraising efforts of the foundation and also identifying those in need.

In addition to his general board duties, Long will also work on the foundation’s Recipient Review Committee and Marketing & Communications Committee. Marketing Committee Chair Terence O’Reilly stated, “Bill’s extensive background and expertise in marketing and communications is a welcome addition to our committee and will help us refine our Awareness Program and further extend the reach of the Aftermarket Foundation to those in need. We are very fortunate indeed to have someone of Bill’s caliber join in active duty on the committee and look forward to the benefits his contributions will make.”

By SEMA Staff

	Carlos Ghosn, Nissan CEO, takes an interest in a Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 car.

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. has announced that Nismo—its global performance road car and motorsport arm—is developing a new, higher-powered road version of the Nissan GT-R.

The GT-R Nismo will be the third Nismo-badged model to emerge from Nissan’s performance-orientated brand as part of a strategy to add a range of performance models across the Nissan range.

Nismo, whose new global headquarters near Yokohama, Japan, was officially opened this week, already has experience in developing and preparing the Nissan GT-R for the racetrack. That expertise will go into creating GT-R Nismo.

“It would be unthinkable for us to develop a range of Nismo road cars without including the GT-R,” said Nissan CEO, Carlos Ghosn. “The standard road car is a global supercar and the GT-R’s performance on track reflects the passion and talents of the Nismo team.”

Millions of gamers around the world are already familiar with the GT-R, thanks to Sony’s Gran Turismo driving simulation series and to motorsport fans with the Skyline enjoying success on track since 1969.

The Nismo team’s intimate knowledge comes from their involvement in racing the GT-R and is a good precursor to the development of the new Nismo road car, which will be based on the ’13 GT-R.

“We know that enthusiasts around the world will be itching to know more about the forthcoming GT-R Nismo,” said Shoichi Miyatani, president of Nismo. “It’s too preliminary to share any details yet, but fans can be certain we’ll be applying all of our motorsport expertise to creating a GT-R Nismo worthy of the name.”

The standard ’13 Nissan GT-R has just received evolutionary design and engineering enhancements based around feedback from competing in last year’s 24-Hours Nürburgring and its success in Super GT and Global GT series.

As a result, the vehicle's overall performance has been dramatically increased, high-speed stability improved and ride quality vastly more refined.

In development now, the new GT-R Nismo will sit at the top of the new Nissan Nismo range of performance vehicles and be available alongside the standard model in Nissan’s specialized GT-R dealerships next year.

Technical specifications and performance figures will be released closer to launch.

So far this year, thousands of new legislative initiatives have been introduced across the United States and Canada, hundreds of which are being closely tracked and analyzed by SEMA and its SEMA Action Network (SAN). We’ve already had several early successes with plenty more on the horizon. As a result of its dedicated following, the SAN remains the premier hobbyist network of its kind.

Now that we are two months into the new legislative season, we have compiled an updated list of new bills that may be of interest to vehicle enthusiasts and the industry. The most pressing of these bills will continue to be the subject of Action Alerts that are e-mailed to SEMA/SAN members and highlighted in our newsletter, Driving Force. The compilation is available on the SAN website. Along the top menu bar of the website you will find "Legislation." Select "State" and then choose the state of interest to view a complete list of pending legislation.

Some of the bills listed on the site will not advance past introduction; others will go on to become the laws of tomorrow. As bills progress through the legislature, the SAN aims to inform our contacts and continue to encourage their participation in the legislative process through e-mails and phone calls to state representatives. Such correspondence has a proven and direct impact on the decisions of legislators.

We encourage you to visit www.semasan.com. The information on this site will provide you with the tools you need to help affect real change, protect the industry and hobby from detrimental state laws and proactively support favorable ones. If you are not yet a member of the SEMA Action Network, we encourage you to join and remain active with our efforts. Joining the SAN is a simple process. Most importantly, it’s free and carries no obligations.

Please contact Bryan Harrison at bryanph@sema.org if you have any questions. He would be happy to provide you with any bill’s full text, current status and committee information.