SEMA News—June 2012

Industry News

Fast Facts

Flex-a-lite will hit the road this summer for its 50th Anniversary Tour, which will span 50 days and include stops at automotive enthusiast events and major product distributors throughout the Midwest.

Flex-a-lite will hit the road this summer for its 50th Anniversary Tour, which will span 50 days and include stops at automotive enthusiast events and major product distributors throughout the Midwest. The tour will feature a specially prepared motorhome, trailer and a 2010 Camaro. The planned tour dates and stops include: June 18, kick-off party at Flex-a-lite headquarters, Fife, Washington; June 22, Premier Performance, Rexburg, Idaho; June 26, Speedway Motors, Lincoln, Nebraska; July 6–8, Goodguys PPG Nationals, Columbus, Ohio; July 10, Summit Racing, Tallmadge, Ohio; July 12–15, NMRA/NMCA Super Bowl of Street Legal Drag Racing, Joliet, Illinois; July 16, Winner’s Circle, Joliet, Illinois; July 17, VSI, Hammond, Indiana; July 19–20, Motor State Distributing, Watervliet, Michigan; August 2–4, Street Rod Nationals, Louisville, Kentucky; August 6, Meyer Distributing, Jasper, Indiana; August 7, P&E Distributors, Goodlettsville, Tennessee.

The Petersen Automotive Museum hired David Boulé as director of corporate sponsorships. The recently created position was developed in response to the growing number of companies looking to support the museum as part of their marketing and communication activities. “As the Petersen continues to realize its potential and vision, we knew it was important to have a person who could find, nurture and ensure the satisfaction of our many corporate partners,” said Buddy Pepp, executive director of the museum. “Dave is that person.” Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation, Los Angeles, 323-964-6361.

Merger and acquisitions advisory and management consulting firm Schwartz Advisors announced that it recently added two new partners, Dennis Walvaert and Mitch Williams. Walvaert and Williams will work on merger and acquisition initiatives and strategic consulting projects for the company. Walvaert recently retired as the president of the Dayco North American aftermarket division and was responsible for Dayco’s Australian operations. Williams is the former president and COO of Hella Inc., where he was responsible for aftermarket activities for Hella in the United States and Canada. He also served as COO for aftermarket accessory supplier Pilot Automotive.

Brute Industries Inc., manufacturer of 52 Race Ramp products in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, was recognized as one of the 2012 “Michigan 50 Companies to Watch.” The company was honored during a ceremony at the eighth annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business event in May. The program was sponsored by the Edward Lowe Foundation and was presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business. For information about Michigan Celebrates Small Business, visit www.michigancelebrates.biz. Brute Industries, Escanaba, MI; 906-786-0585.

Collector-car legend Rick Cole was contracted by the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction to serve as an automotive specialist.

Collector-car legend Rick Cole was contracted by the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction to serve as an automotive specialist. Best known as the hobby’s “Auctioneer to the Stars,” Los Angeles-based Cole will utilize his vast experience in the auction arena to help Barrett-Jackson source consignments for collector cars and add his 35-plus years of expertise and knowledge to find some of most highly collectible automobiles and automobile collections. Cole will work with Gary Bennett, vice president of consignments. Cole’s history with collector-car auctions started in 1978 when he established Rick Cole Auctions. Barrett-Jackson Auction Co., Scottsdale, AZ; 480-421-6694.

Total Automotive Inc. has completed a 10,000-square-foot expansion of its main complex in Chanhassen, Minnesota. With the expansion, the company plans to add 12 to 15 new positions and launch a new retail www.hingekits.com website in 2012 and release more than 100 new hinge repair kits before the 2012 SEMA Show. Total Automotive, Chanhassen, MN; 952-448-7750.

Ryan Payne was hired by Source Interlink Media LLC to serve as vice president of marketing. He will be responsible for streamlining the company’s internal and external marketing solutions to help deliver more efficient and collaborative ideas to clients. Prior to joining Source Interlink Media, Payne served as account director at Team One Advertising in El Segundo, California, where he managed the Lexus National account and was responsible for web development and collateral. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp. will continue as the Official Tire of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for 2012. In addition to Toyo logos inside the octagon during six UFC pay-per-view events and several UFC on FX and FUELTV events, Toyo will also have an increased presence on www.ufc.com and plans to further incorporate UFC and mixed martial arts fighters into its marketing efforts. Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Royal Purple announced the winner of its High Performance Experience contest. Scott Shanks and his 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Convertible were selected to drive on the 2012 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour as a guest of Royal Purple. As the winner of the Royal Purple High Performance Driving Experience Contest, Shanks will receive a Visa gift card to help defray expenses while traveling on the tour, paid registration fees for the tour, VIP parking, a spot in the Royal Purple booth on the tour, and a variety of Royal Purple swag. Royal Purple, Porter, TX; 281-354-8600.

The Velocity television network is bringing back the vehicle restoration series “Overhaulin’,” with a new season set to premiere in the fall of 2012. Restoration icon Chip Foose will return to the show with an all-new format, ready to transform the vehicles of several lucky and well-deserving individuals.

Morris Hamm will serve as the chief steward for the SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series. A 40-year SCCA member with more than 25 years of stewarding experience, Hamm will be responsible for the officiating of the 46-year-old series. He has served as chief steward of the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup and its predecessor SCCA Pro Racing Mazda Miata Cup, and he spent five years as the assistant chief steward of the Pirelli World Challenge Championships.

Falken Tire launched a special sweepstakes featuring a 2013 Ford Mustang customized by Team Falken drivers Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr.

Falken Tire launched a special sweepstakes featuring a 2013 Ford Mustang customized by Team Falken drivers Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr. The winner will be awarded the grand prize Mustang at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Entries can be made by completing the entry form and posting a “Like” on Falken Tire’s Facebook page. The sweepstakes runs throughout the Formula Drift season, which culminates with the “Title Fight,” Round 7, on October 12–13. Falken Tire, Fontana, CA; 909-466-1116.

RCH Designs announced that the company helped redesign and streamline the website for Monroe Brakes, www.monroebrakes.com. In addition to the two websites for Monroe (www.monroe.com and www.monroebrakes.com), RCH Designs has also built sites for “performance” divisions within Tenneco, Rancho Suspension (www.gorancho.com) and DynoMax Performance Exhaust (www.dynomax.com). RCH Designs, Huntington Beach, CA: 714-842-9899.

John B. Rogers Jr., president, CEO and co-founder of Local Motors, was selected as the jury captain for the Core77 2012 Design Awards. Core 77 is an online design resource for designers and enthusiasts that publishes articles, provides discussion forums, hosts portfolio and job listings and more for its community. Rogers recently chose the following designers to serve on the jury team: Victor Garcia, senior industrial designer at Peterbilt Motors; Aurelien François, community liaison and design at Local Motors; and Chris Cocalis, president and CEO of Pivot Cycles and BH USA LLC. According to Core 77, the awards celebrate the design profession and practitioners by recognizing excellence in all areas of design enterprise. Local Motors, Chandler, AZ; 480-371-6797.

A special birthday celebration for hot rod legend and So-Cal Speed Shop founder Alex Xydias will take place at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum on Saturday, June 16, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Tickets, which are $90 per person, include dinner, silent and live auctions of items from Xydias’s personal collection, admission to the museum and an event keepsake. Tickets can be purchased through the museum at 909-622-3389 or ordered via e-mail at mvaladez@nhra.com. The event benefits both the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts, a program of The Learning Centers at Fairplex.

The Society of Automotive Engineers—Australia has appointed Geoff Pearson as executive director.

The Society of Automotive Engineers—Australia has appointed Geoff Pearson as executive director. Pearson replaces previous executive director Max Chanter, who is retiring. “Geoff has been active in SAE-A programs for many years, particularly the international Formula SAE-Australia education competition for engineering students hosted by the Society at the end of every year,” said SAE-A President Bill Malkoutzis.

Design Engineering Inc. will continue its product sponsorship program for 2012, which includes all of its performance brands: Ny-Trex, CryO2, DEI, Boom Mat, Radiator Relief and Spa Turbo USA. DEI announced that it will offer racers and project builders any DEI-branded product in exchange for media coverage at race and show events. The sponsorship program is applicable to any product for domestic or import automotive vehicles (gas or diesel), kart, personal watercraft or boat. There is no limitation based on the race series or class, show vehicle category or the number of products or the product mix that is requested. Learn more at www.designengineering.com, or e-mail mikez@designengineering.com. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

Powdercoating equipment manufacturer Gema announced that it began operating as a new business unit of the Graco Corp. effective April 2, 2012. According to Gema, the company will operate as a separate business unit, and customers and industry partners will see no change in how the company conducts business. A transition will occur over the next several months as marketing, promotional and product materials are integrated with the new company name, Gema. Gema, Indianapolis, IN; 317-298-5072.

Yokohama Tire Corp. planted an additional 2,500 tree seedlings at its manufacturing plant in Salem, Virginia, bringing the facility’s total seedlings planted to 6,800. Yokohama aims to plant more than 500,000 trees worldwide by 2017 as part of its ongoing “Forever Forest” program. The campaign is under the direction of ecologist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, well known for his successful reforestation activities around the world. Under his guidance, Yokohama’s parent company, The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd., is on course to attain its goal of half a million trees planted over a 10-year period at Yokohama’s 17 locations worldwide. To date, more than 200,000 trees have been planted. Yokohama, Fullerton, CA; 714-870-3800.

SEMA News—June 2012

Industry News

Fast Facts

Flex-a-lite will hit the road this summer for its 50th Anniversary Tour, which will span 50 days and include stops at automotive enthusiast events and major product distributors throughout the Midwest.

Flex-a-lite will hit the road this summer for its 50th Anniversary Tour, which will span 50 days and include stops at automotive enthusiast events and major product distributors throughout the Midwest. The tour will feature a specially prepared motorhome, trailer and a 2010 Camaro. The planned tour dates and stops include: June 18, kick-off party at Flex-a-lite headquarters, Fife, Washington; June 22, Premier Performance, Rexburg, Idaho; June 26, Speedway Motors, Lincoln, Nebraska; July 6–8, Goodguys PPG Nationals, Columbus, Ohio; July 10, Summit Racing, Tallmadge, Ohio; July 12–15, NMRA/NMCA Super Bowl of Street Legal Drag Racing, Joliet, Illinois; July 16, Winner’s Circle, Joliet, Illinois; July 17, VSI, Hammond, Indiana; July 19–20, Motor State Distributing, Watervliet, Michigan; August 2–4, Street Rod Nationals, Louisville, Kentucky; August 6, Meyer Distributing, Jasper, Indiana; August 7, P&E Distributors, Goodlettsville, Tennessee.

The Petersen Automotive Museum hired David Boulé as director of corporate sponsorships. The recently created position was developed in response to the growing number of companies looking to support the museum as part of their marketing and communication activities. “As the Petersen continues to realize its potential and vision, we knew it was important to have a person who could find, nurture and ensure the satisfaction of our many corporate partners,” said Buddy Pepp, executive director of the museum. “Dave is that person.” Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation, Los Angeles, 323-964-6361.

Merger and acquisitions advisory and management consulting firm Schwartz Advisors announced that it recently added two new partners, Dennis Walvaert and Mitch Williams. Walvaert and Williams will work on merger and acquisition initiatives and strategic consulting projects for the company. Walvaert recently retired as the president of the Dayco North American aftermarket division and was responsible for Dayco’s Australian operations. Williams is the former president and COO of Hella Inc., where he was responsible for aftermarket activities for Hella in the United States and Canada. He also served as COO for aftermarket accessory supplier Pilot Automotive.

Brute Industries Inc., manufacturer of 52 Race Ramp products in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, was recognized as one of the 2012 “Michigan 50 Companies to Watch.” The company was honored during a ceremony at the eighth annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business event in May. The program was sponsored by the Edward Lowe Foundation and was presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business. For information about Michigan Celebrates Small Business, visit www.michigancelebrates.biz. Brute Industries, Escanaba, MI; 906-786-0585.

Collector-car legend Rick Cole was contracted by the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction to serve as an automotive specialist.

Collector-car legend Rick Cole was contracted by the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction to serve as an automotive specialist. Best known as the hobby’s “Auctioneer to the Stars,” Los Angeles-based Cole will utilize his vast experience in the auction arena to help Barrett-Jackson source consignments for collector cars and add his 35-plus years of expertise and knowledge to find some of most highly collectible automobiles and automobile collections. Cole will work with Gary Bennett, vice president of consignments. Cole’s history with collector-car auctions started in 1978 when he established Rick Cole Auctions. Barrett-Jackson Auction Co., Scottsdale, AZ; 480-421-6694.

Total Automotive Inc. has completed a 10,000-square-foot expansion of its main complex in Chanhassen, Minnesota. With the expansion, the company plans to add 12 to 15 new positions and launch a new retail www.hingekits.com website in 2012 and release more than 100 new hinge repair kits before the 2012 SEMA Show. Total Automotive, Chanhassen, MN; 952-448-7750.

Ryan Payne was hired by Source Interlink Media LLC to serve as vice president of marketing. He will be responsible for streamlining the company’s internal and external marketing solutions to help deliver more efficient and collaborative ideas to clients. Prior to joining Source Interlink Media, Payne served as account director at Team One Advertising in El Segundo, California, where he managed the Lexus National account and was responsible for web development and collateral. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp. will continue as the Official Tire of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for 2012. In addition to Toyo logos inside the octagon during six UFC pay-per-view events and several UFC on FX and FUELTV events, Toyo will also have an increased presence on www.ufc.com and plans to further incorporate UFC and mixed martial arts fighters into its marketing efforts. Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Royal Purple announced the winner of its High Performance Experience contest. Scott Shanks and his 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Convertible were selected to drive on the 2012 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour as a guest of Royal Purple. As the winner of the Royal Purple High Performance Driving Experience Contest, Shanks will receive a Visa gift card to help defray expenses while traveling on the tour, paid registration fees for the tour, VIP parking, a spot in the Royal Purple booth on the tour, and a variety of Royal Purple swag. Royal Purple, Porter, TX; 281-354-8600.

The Velocity television network is bringing back the vehicle restoration series “Overhaulin’,” with a new season set to premiere in the fall of 2012. Restoration icon Chip Foose will return to the show with an all-new format, ready to transform the vehicles of several lucky and well-deserving individuals.

Morris Hamm will serve as the chief steward for the SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series. A 40-year SCCA member with more than 25 years of stewarding experience, Hamm will be responsible for the officiating of the 46-year-old series. He has served as chief steward of the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup and its predecessor SCCA Pro Racing Mazda Miata Cup, and he spent five years as the assistant chief steward of the Pirelli World Challenge Championships.

Falken Tire launched a special sweepstakes featuring a 2013 Ford Mustang customized by Team Falken drivers Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr.

Falken Tire launched a special sweepstakes featuring a 2013 Ford Mustang customized by Team Falken drivers Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr. The winner will be awarded the grand prize Mustang at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Entries can be made by completing the entry form and posting a “Like” on Falken Tire’s Facebook page. The sweepstakes runs throughout the Formula Drift season, which culminates with the “Title Fight,” Round 7, on October 12–13. Falken Tire, Fontana, CA; 909-466-1116.

RCH Designs announced that the company helped redesign and streamline the website for Monroe Brakes, www.monroebrakes.com. In addition to the two websites for Monroe (www.monroe.com and www.monroebrakes.com), RCH Designs has also built sites for “performance” divisions within Tenneco, Rancho Suspension (www.gorancho.com) and DynoMax Performance Exhaust (www.dynomax.com). RCH Designs, Huntington Beach, CA: 714-842-9899.

John B. Rogers Jr., president, CEO and co-founder of Local Motors, was selected as the jury captain for the Core77 2012 Design Awards. Core 77 is an online design resource for designers and enthusiasts that publishes articles, provides discussion forums, hosts portfolio and job listings and more for its community. Rogers recently chose the following designers to serve on the jury team: Victor Garcia, senior industrial designer at Peterbilt Motors; Aurelien François, community liaison and design at Local Motors; and Chris Cocalis, president and CEO of Pivot Cycles and BH USA LLC. According to Core 77, the awards celebrate the design profession and practitioners by recognizing excellence in all areas of design enterprise. Local Motors, Chandler, AZ; 480-371-6797.

A special birthday celebration for hot rod legend and So-Cal Speed Shop founder Alex Xydias will take place at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum on Saturday, June 16, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Tickets, which are $90 per person, include dinner, silent and live auctions of items from Xydias’s personal collection, admission to the museum and an event keepsake. Tickets can be purchased through the museum at 909-622-3389 or ordered via e-mail at mvaladez@nhra.com. The event benefits both the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts, a program of The Learning Centers at Fairplex.

The Society of Automotive Engineers—Australia has appointed Geoff Pearson as executive director.

The Society of Automotive Engineers—Australia has appointed Geoff Pearson as executive director. Pearson replaces previous executive director Max Chanter, who is retiring. “Geoff has been active in SAE-A programs for many years, particularly the international Formula SAE-Australia education competition for engineering students hosted by the Society at the end of every year,” said SAE-A President Bill Malkoutzis.

Design Engineering Inc. will continue its product sponsorship program for 2012, which includes all of its performance brands: Ny-Trex, CryO2, DEI, Boom Mat, Radiator Relief and Spa Turbo USA. DEI announced that it will offer racers and project builders any DEI-branded product in exchange for media coverage at race and show events. The sponsorship program is applicable to any product for domestic or import automotive vehicles (gas or diesel), kart, personal watercraft or boat. There is no limitation based on the race series or class, show vehicle category or the number of products or the product mix that is requested. Learn more at www.designengineering.com, or e-mail mikez@designengineering.com. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

Powdercoating equipment manufacturer Gema announced that it began operating as a new business unit of the Graco Corp. effective April 2, 2012. According to Gema, the company will operate as a separate business unit, and customers and industry partners will see no change in how the company conducts business. A transition will occur over the next several months as marketing, promotional and product materials are integrated with the new company name, Gema. Gema, Indianapolis, IN; 317-298-5072.

Yokohama Tire Corp. planted an additional 2,500 tree seedlings at its manufacturing plant in Salem, Virginia, bringing the facility’s total seedlings planted to 6,800. Yokohama aims to plant more than 500,000 trees worldwide by 2017 as part of its ongoing “Forever Forest” program. The campaign is under the direction of ecologist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, well known for his successful reforestation activities around the world. Under his guidance, Yokohama’s parent company, The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd., is on course to attain its goal of half a million trees planted over a 10-year period at Yokohama’s 17 locations worldwide. To date, more than 200,000 trees have been planted. Yokohama, Fullerton, CA; 714-870-3800.

SEMA News—June 2012

Industry News

Fast Facts

Flex-a-lite will hit the road this summer for its 50th Anniversary Tour, which will span 50 days and include stops at automotive enthusiast events and major product distributors throughout the Midwest.

Flex-a-lite will hit the road this summer for its 50th Anniversary Tour, which will span 50 days and include stops at automotive enthusiast events and major product distributors throughout the Midwest. The tour will feature a specially prepared motorhome, trailer and a 2010 Camaro. The planned tour dates and stops include: June 18, kick-off party at Flex-a-lite headquarters, Fife, Washington; June 22, Premier Performance, Rexburg, Idaho; June 26, Speedway Motors, Lincoln, Nebraska; July 6–8, Goodguys PPG Nationals, Columbus, Ohio; July 10, Summit Racing, Tallmadge, Ohio; July 12–15, NMRA/NMCA Super Bowl of Street Legal Drag Racing, Joliet, Illinois; July 16, Winner’s Circle, Joliet, Illinois; July 17, VSI, Hammond, Indiana; July 19–20, Motor State Distributing, Watervliet, Michigan; August 2–4, Street Rod Nationals, Louisville, Kentucky; August 6, Meyer Distributing, Jasper, Indiana; August 7, P&E Distributors, Goodlettsville, Tennessee.

The Petersen Automotive Museum hired David Boulé as director of corporate sponsorships. The recently created position was developed in response to the growing number of companies looking to support the museum as part of their marketing and communication activities. “As the Petersen continues to realize its potential and vision, we knew it was important to have a person who could find, nurture and ensure the satisfaction of our many corporate partners,” said Buddy Pepp, executive director of the museum. “Dave is that person.” Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation, Los Angeles, 323-964-6361.

Merger and acquisitions advisory and management consulting firm Schwartz Advisors announced that it recently added two new partners, Dennis Walvaert and Mitch Williams. Walvaert and Williams will work on merger and acquisition initiatives and strategic consulting projects for the company. Walvaert recently retired as the president of the Dayco North American aftermarket division and was responsible for Dayco’s Australian operations. Williams is the former president and COO of Hella Inc., where he was responsible for aftermarket activities for Hella in the United States and Canada. He also served as COO for aftermarket accessory supplier Pilot Automotive.

Brute Industries Inc., manufacturer of 52 Race Ramp products in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, was recognized as one of the 2012 “Michigan 50 Companies to Watch.” The company was honored during a ceremony at the eighth annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business event in May. The program was sponsored by the Edward Lowe Foundation and was presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business. For information about Michigan Celebrates Small Business, visit www.michigancelebrates.biz. Brute Industries, Escanaba, MI; 906-786-0585.

Collector-car legend Rick Cole was contracted by the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction to serve as an automotive specialist.

Collector-car legend Rick Cole was contracted by the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction to serve as an automotive specialist. Best known as the hobby’s “Auctioneer to the Stars,” Los Angeles-based Cole will utilize his vast experience in the auction arena to help Barrett-Jackson source consignments for collector cars and add his 35-plus years of expertise and knowledge to find some of most highly collectible automobiles and automobile collections. Cole will work with Gary Bennett, vice president of consignments. Cole’s history with collector-car auctions started in 1978 when he established Rick Cole Auctions. Barrett-Jackson Auction Co., Scottsdale, AZ; 480-421-6694.

Total Automotive Inc. has completed a 10,000-square-foot expansion of its main complex in Chanhassen, Minnesota. With the expansion, the company plans to add 12 to 15 new positions and launch a new retail www.hingekits.com website in 2012 and release more than 100 new hinge repair kits before the 2012 SEMA Show. Total Automotive, Chanhassen, MN; 952-448-7750.

Ryan Payne was hired by Source Interlink Media LLC to serve as vice president of marketing. He will be responsible for streamlining the company’s internal and external marketing solutions to help deliver more efficient and collaborative ideas to clients. Prior to joining Source Interlink Media, Payne served as account director at Team One Advertising in El Segundo, California, where he managed the Lexus National account and was responsible for web development and collateral. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp. will continue as the Official Tire of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for 2012. In addition to Toyo logos inside the octagon during six UFC pay-per-view events and several UFC on FX and FUELTV events, Toyo will also have an increased presence on www.ufc.com and plans to further incorporate UFC and mixed martial arts fighters into its marketing efforts. Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Royal Purple announced the winner of its High Performance Experience contest. Scott Shanks and his 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Convertible were selected to drive on the 2012 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour as a guest of Royal Purple. As the winner of the Royal Purple High Performance Driving Experience Contest, Shanks will receive a Visa gift card to help defray expenses while traveling on the tour, paid registration fees for the tour, VIP parking, a spot in the Royal Purple booth on the tour, and a variety of Royal Purple swag. Royal Purple, Porter, TX; 281-354-8600.

The Velocity television network is bringing back the vehicle restoration series “Overhaulin’,” with a new season set to premiere in the fall of 2012. Restoration icon Chip Foose will return to the show with an all-new format, ready to transform the vehicles of several lucky and well-deserving individuals.

Morris Hamm will serve as the chief steward for the SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series. A 40-year SCCA member with more than 25 years of stewarding experience, Hamm will be responsible for the officiating of the 46-year-old series. He has served as chief steward of the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup and its predecessor SCCA Pro Racing Mazda Miata Cup, and he spent five years as the assistant chief steward of the Pirelli World Challenge Championships.

Falken Tire launched a special sweepstakes featuring a 2013 Ford Mustang customized by Team Falken drivers Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr.

Falken Tire launched a special sweepstakes featuring a 2013 Ford Mustang customized by Team Falken drivers Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr. The winner will be awarded the grand prize Mustang at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Entries can be made by completing the entry form and posting a “Like” on Falken Tire’s Facebook page. The sweepstakes runs throughout the Formula Drift season, which culminates with the “Title Fight,” Round 7, on October 12–13. Falken Tire, Fontana, CA; 909-466-1116.

RCH Designs announced that the company helped redesign and streamline the website for Monroe Brakes, www.monroebrakes.com. In addition to the two websites for Monroe (www.monroe.com and www.monroebrakes.com), RCH Designs has also built sites for “performance” divisions within Tenneco, Rancho Suspension (www.gorancho.com) and DynoMax Performance Exhaust (www.dynomax.com). RCH Designs, Huntington Beach, CA: 714-842-9899.

John B. Rogers Jr., president, CEO and co-founder of Local Motors, was selected as the jury captain for the Core77 2012 Design Awards. Core 77 is an online design resource for designers and enthusiasts that publishes articles, provides discussion forums, hosts portfolio and job listings and more for its community. Rogers recently chose the following designers to serve on the jury team: Victor Garcia, senior industrial designer at Peterbilt Motors; Aurelien François, community liaison and design at Local Motors; and Chris Cocalis, president and CEO of Pivot Cycles and BH USA LLC. According to Core 77, the awards celebrate the design profession and practitioners by recognizing excellence in all areas of design enterprise. Local Motors, Chandler, AZ; 480-371-6797.

A special birthday celebration for hot rod legend and So-Cal Speed Shop founder Alex Xydias will take place at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum on Saturday, June 16, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Tickets, which are $90 per person, include dinner, silent and live auctions of items from Xydias’s personal collection, admission to the museum and an event keepsake. Tickets can be purchased through the museum at 909-622-3389 or ordered via e-mail at mvaladez@nhra.com. The event benefits both the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts, a program of The Learning Centers at Fairplex.

The Society of Automotive Engineers—Australia has appointed Geoff Pearson as executive director.

The Society of Automotive Engineers—Australia has appointed Geoff Pearson as executive director. Pearson replaces previous executive director Max Chanter, who is retiring. “Geoff has been active in SAE-A programs for many years, particularly the international Formula SAE-Australia education competition for engineering students hosted by the Society at the end of every year,” said SAE-A President Bill Malkoutzis.

Design Engineering Inc. will continue its product sponsorship program for 2012, which includes all of its performance brands: Ny-Trex, CryO2, DEI, Boom Mat, Radiator Relief and Spa Turbo USA. DEI announced that it will offer racers and project builders any DEI-branded product in exchange for media coverage at race and show events. The sponsorship program is applicable to any product for domestic or import automotive vehicles (gas or diesel), kart, personal watercraft or boat. There is no limitation based on the race series or class, show vehicle category or the number of products or the product mix that is requested. Learn more at www.designengineering.com, or e-mail mikez@designengineering.com. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

Powdercoating equipment manufacturer Gema announced that it began operating as a new business unit of the Graco Corp. effective April 2, 2012. According to Gema, the company will operate as a separate business unit, and customers and industry partners will see no change in how the company conducts business. A transition will occur over the next several months as marketing, promotional and product materials are integrated with the new company name, Gema. Gema, Indianapolis, IN; 317-298-5072.

Yokohama Tire Corp. planted an additional 2,500 tree seedlings at its manufacturing plant in Salem, Virginia, bringing the facility’s total seedlings planted to 6,800. Yokohama aims to plant more than 500,000 trees worldwide by 2017 as part of its ongoing “Forever Forest” program. The campaign is under the direction of ecologist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, well known for his successful reforestation activities around the world. Under his guidance, Yokohama’s parent company, The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd., is on course to attain its goal of half a million trees planted over a 10-year period at Yokohama’s 17 locations worldwide. To date, more than 200,000 trees have been planted. Yokohama, Fullerton, CA; 714-870-3800.

SEMA News—June 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Linda Spencer

Global Legislation and Regulation Roundup

Specialty Parts Status Around the World

Below is a roundup of proposed or recently enacted legislative and regulatory developments affecting the specialty-equipment industry in key overseas markets. For more information on overseas developments, SEMA members are invited to contact SEMA Director of International and Government Relations Linda Spencer.

Australia

	The State of Victoria has removed its ban on lift kits for 4x4 vehicles. Trucks with lift kits/wheel/tire combinations of no more than 75mm are allowed without the need for outside certification.

Things have been relatively quiet in the past year on the legislative/regulatory front in Australia, according to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). Stuart Charity, the association’s executive director, said that hard-fought battles in the prior year have paid off, and some regulators appear to be shying away from imposing new restrictions on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“Our high-profile wins on suspension, emissions (IM240) and bull bars, together with a change of government in some key states, has seen the transport regulators agenda of tightening up vehicle modifications grind to a halt,” Charity said. “In fact, we are starting to see momentum move the other way [i.e., relaxing of standards] in New South Wales, which was the biggest protagonist a few years ago.”

Among ongoing issues, the AAAA has been working with the Australian state of Victoria over two topics, including suspension upgrades for 4x4s and modifications for vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The state of Victoria is now on record as stating that consumers can raise their 4WD vehicles up to 75mm (2.95-in.). A 50mm maximum is allowed for suspension lift plus a 25mm increase from the fitment of tires with 50mm greater outside diameter. The modifications must be undertaken using a commercially available lift kit that has been specially designed and tested for the vehicle.

Vehicles can be also be modified beyond the parameters outlined under VSB14, provided that the vehicle is inspected by an independent signatory engineer registered with Vicroads (the state road and traffic authority in Victoria) and the modification has been deemed to be safe.

Vehicle Modification on ESC-Fitted Vehicles

Vicroads also made significant AAAA-supported amendments to the section on modification of vehicles fitted with ESC. The regulation now allows for ESC-fitted vehicles to be modified, provided that testing is undertaken to determine that the modification does not adversely affect the operation of the ESC unit. The previous Vicroads position was that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified without permission from the vehicle manufacturer. (It should be noted that these changes are only for vehicles registered in Victoria; however, other jurisdictions may take similar positions once they enact VSB 14 into their local regulations.)

Information on these developments as well as a review of all state laws are included in a new publication that Vicroads has released. It is entitled VSI 08 “Guide to Modifications for Motor Vehicles” and can be downloaded.

“While I understand that there is still plenty of ‘grey’ regarding vehicle modification of ESC-equipped vehicles in Victoria, the original position of Vicroads back in 2009 was that that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified at all without permission from the vehicle manufacturer—so the current wording of the regulation is a big improvement on that,” Charity said.

Brazil

Prior to 2008, vehicle modifications were officially not allowed in Brazil, according Eduardo Bernasconi, the founder of the new Brazilian Associacao Brasileira de Acessorios Automotivos (Brazilian Association of Automotive Accessories, or ABAA). Bernasconi said that the current rules, while still not fully transparent nor sufficiently stable or free of unnecessary restriction, represent an improvement of the situation from five years ago.

Suspension Upgrades

Consumers are allowed to lower their vehicles but must allow a minimum of 41cm (16.14-in.) from the ground, measured from the center of the headlights.

Air-ride suspension and coil-over kits are currently not allowed. The new ABAA specialty-equipment association has placed the opening of this segment of the market high on its agenda.

Engine Performance

Resolution 291 allows Brazilian consumers to increase engine power by no more than 10%. Performance-enhancing products, such as exhaust systems, air intakes and superchargers are allowed. Once the desired upgrades are made, the owner is required to have the vehicle tested at the Division of Motor Vehicles or an approved testing agency. The vehicle is tested on a chassis dynamometer, and the results are compared with those of a stock model.

Wheels

	Car customizing is extremely popular in China. Specialty automotive products inclusion on the bilateral U.S. and Chinese government is a positive step in assisting the Chinese government in developing a pro-business regulatory system governing our industry.

As of January 2013, Brazil is planning to require wheels to meet SAE standard J2530. SEMA worked with SAE to develop SAE J2530, entitled “Aftermarket Wheels-Passenger Cars and Light Truck-Performance Requirements and Test Procedures.”

Unlike in the U.S., the new Brazilian requirements will mandate that not only will Brazilian wheel manufacturers and importers be required to test to these standards but will also be required to submit the wheels to outside testing and verification.

China

In a SEMA-supported development, the U.S. government announced recently that the U.S. and Chinese governments have agreed to include the legalization of the Chinese specialty-equipment market as part of high-level U.S.-Chinese government talks.

Chaired by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, the members of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade held a meeting in Chengdu, China, November 20 and 21. Other participants included U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke and representatives from the State and Treasury Departments. Senior Chinese officials from 23 ministries and agencies also attended.

Slated for discussion on the upcoming talks are the U.S. system for regulating the industry, to be used as a reference point while the Chinese government explores creating a legal framework in that country, as well as the current state of the industry and its market potential.

The United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the seven United Arab Emirates, has suddenly begun to crack down on aftermarket exhaust systems deemed too noisy. Stakeholders in that market and the surrounding emirates are seeking a solution that would allow vehicle modifications that meet preset noise levels.

SEMA News—June 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Linda Spencer

Global Legislation and Regulation Roundup

Specialty Parts Status Around the World

Below is a roundup of proposed or recently enacted legislative and regulatory developments affecting the specialty-equipment industry in key overseas markets. For more information on overseas developments, SEMA members are invited to contact SEMA Director of International and Government Relations Linda Spencer.

Australia

	The State of Victoria has removed its ban on lift kits for 4x4 vehicles. Trucks with lift kits/wheel/tire combinations of no more than 75mm are allowed without the need for outside certification.

Things have been relatively quiet in the past year on the legislative/regulatory front in Australia, according to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). Stuart Charity, the association’s executive director, said that hard-fought battles in the prior year have paid off, and some regulators appear to be shying away from imposing new restrictions on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“Our high-profile wins on suspension, emissions (IM240) and bull bars, together with a change of government in some key states, has seen the transport regulators agenda of tightening up vehicle modifications grind to a halt,” Charity said. “In fact, we are starting to see momentum move the other way [i.e., relaxing of standards] in New South Wales, which was the biggest protagonist a few years ago.”

Among ongoing issues, the AAAA has been working with the Australian state of Victoria over two topics, including suspension upgrades for 4x4s and modifications for vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The state of Victoria is now on record as stating that consumers can raise their 4WD vehicles up to 75mm (2.95-in.). A 50mm maximum is allowed for suspension lift plus a 25mm increase from the fitment of tires with 50mm greater outside diameter. The modifications must be undertaken using a commercially available lift kit that has been specially designed and tested for the vehicle.

Vehicles can be also be modified beyond the parameters outlined under VSB14, provided that the vehicle is inspected by an independent signatory engineer registered with Vicroads (the state road and traffic authority in Victoria) and the modification has been deemed to be safe.

Vehicle Modification on ESC-Fitted Vehicles

Vicroads also made significant AAAA-supported amendments to the section on modification of vehicles fitted with ESC. The regulation now allows for ESC-fitted vehicles to be modified, provided that testing is undertaken to determine that the modification does not adversely affect the operation of the ESC unit. The previous Vicroads position was that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified without permission from the vehicle manufacturer. (It should be noted that these changes are only for vehicles registered in Victoria; however, other jurisdictions may take similar positions once they enact VSB 14 into their local regulations.)

Information on these developments as well as a review of all state laws are included in a new publication that Vicroads has released. It is entitled VSI 08 “Guide to Modifications for Motor Vehicles” and can be downloaded.

“While I understand that there is still plenty of ‘grey’ regarding vehicle modification of ESC-equipped vehicles in Victoria, the original position of Vicroads back in 2009 was that that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified at all without permission from the vehicle manufacturer—so the current wording of the regulation is a big improvement on that,” Charity said.

Brazil

Prior to 2008, vehicle modifications were officially not allowed in Brazil, according Eduardo Bernasconi, the founder of the new Brazilian Associacao Brasileira de Acessorios Automotivos (Brazilian Association of Automotive Accessories, or ABAA). Bernasconi said that the current rules, while still not fully transparent nor sufficiently stable or free of unnecessary restriction, represent an improvement of the situation from five years ago.

Suspension Upgrades

Consumers are allowed to lower their vehicles but must allow a minimum of 41cm (16.14-in.) from the ground, measured from the center of the headlights.

Air-ride suspension and coil-over kits are currently not allowed. The new ABAA specialty-equipment association has placed the opening of this segment of the market high on its agenda.

Engine Performance

Resolution 291 allows Brazilian consumers to increase engine power by no more than 10%. Performance-enhancing products, such as exhaust systems, air intakes and superchargers are allowed. Once the desired upgrades are made, the owner is required to have the vehicle tested at the Division of Motor Vehicles or an approved testing agency. The vehicle is tested on a chassis dynamometer, and the results are compared with those of a stock model.

Wheels

	Car customizing is extremely popular in China. Specialty automotive products inclusion on the bilateral U.S. and Chinese government is a positive step in assisting the Chinese government in developing a pro-business regulatory system governing our industry.

As of January 2013, Brazil is planning to require wheels to meet SAE standard J2530. SEMA worked with SAE to develop SAE J2530, entitled “Aftermarket Wheels-Passenger Cars and Light Truck-Performance Requirements and Test Procedures.”

Unlike in the U.S., the new Brazilian requirements will mandate that not only will Brazilian wheel manufacturers and importers be required to test to these standards but will also be required to submit the wheels to outside testing and verification.

China

In a SEMA-supported development, the U.S. government announced recently that the U.S. and Chinese governments have agreed to include the legalization of the Chinese specialty-equipment market as part of high-level U.S.-Chinese government talks.

Chaired by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, the members of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade held a meeting in Chengdu, China, November 20 and 21. Other participants included U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke and representatives from the State and Treasury Departments. Senior Chinese officials from 23 ministries and agencies also attended.

Slated for discussion on the upcoming talks are the U.S. system for regulating the industry, to be used as a reference point while the Chinese government explores creating a legal framework in that country, as well as the current state of the industry and its market potential.

The United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the seven United Arab Emirates, has suddenly begun to crack down on aftermarket exhaust systems deemed too noisy. Stakeholders in that market and the surrounding emirates are seeking a solution that would allow vehicle modifications that meet preset noise levels.

SEMA News—June 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Linda Spencer

Global Legislation and Regulation Roundup

Specialty Parts Status Around the World

Below is a roundup of proposed or recently enacted legislative and regulatory developments affecting the specialty-equipment industry in key overseas markets. For more information on overseas developments, SEMA members are invited to contact SEMA Director of International and Government Relations Linda Spencer.

Australia

	The State of Victoria has removed its ban on lift kits for 4x4 vehicles. Trucks with lift kits/wheel/tire combinations of no more than 75mm are allowed without the need for outside certification.

Things have been relatively quiet in the past year on the legislative/regulatory front in Australia, according to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). Stuart Charity, the association’s executive director, said that hard-fought battles in the prior year have paid off, and some regulators appear to be shying away from imposing new restrictions on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“Our high-profile wins on suspension, emissions (IM240) and bull bars, together with a change of government in some key states, has seen the transport regulators agenda of tightening up vehicle modifications grind to a halt,” Charity said. “In fact, we are starting to see momentum move the other way [i.e., relaxing of standards] in New South Wales, which was the biggest protagonist a few years ago.”

Among ongoing issues, the AAAA has been working with the Australian state of Victoria over two topics, including suspension upgrades for 4x4s and modifications for vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The state of Victoria is now on record as stating that consumers can raise their 4WD vehicles up to 75mm (2.95-in.). A 50mm maximum is allowed for suspension lift plus a 25mm increase from the fitment of tires with 50mm greater outside diameter. The modifications must be undertaken using a commercially available lift kit that has been specially designed and tested for the vehicle.

Vehicles can be also be modified beyond the parameters outlined under VSB14, provided that the vehicle is inspected by an independent signatory engineer registered with Vicroads (the state road and traffic authority in Victoria) and the modification has been deemed to be safe.

Vehicle Modification on ESC-Fitted Vehicles

Vicroads also made significant AAAA-supported amendments to the section on modification of vehicles fitted with ESC. The regulation now allows for ESC-fitted vehicles to be modified, provided that testing is undertaken to determine that the modification does not adversely affect the operation of the ESC unit. The previous Vicroads position was that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified without permission from the vehicle manufacturer. (It should be noted that these changes are only for vehicles registered in Victoria; however, other jurisdictions may take similar positions once they enact VSB 14 into their local regulations.)

Information on these developments as well as a review of all state laws are included in a new publication that Vicroads has released. It is entitled VSI 08 “Guide to Modifications for Motor Vehicles” and can be downloaded.

“While I understand that there is still plenty of ‘grey’ regarding vehicle modification of ESC-equipped vehicles in Victoria, the original position of Vicroads back in 2009 was that that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified at all without permission from the vehicle manufacturer—so the current wording of the regulation is a big improvement on that,” Charity said.

Brazil

Prior to 2008, vehicle modifications were officially not allowed in Brazil, according Eduardo Bernasconi, the founder of the new Brazilian Associacao Brasileira de Acessorios Automotivos (Brazilian Association of Automotive Accessories, or ABAA). Bernasconi said that the current rules, while still not fully transparent nor sufficiently stable or free of unnecessary restriction, represent an improvement of the situation from five years ago.

Suspension Upgrades

Consumers are allowed to lower their vehicles but must allow a minimum of 41cm (16.14-in.) from the ground, measured from the center of the headlights.

Air-ride suspension and coil-over kits are currently not allowed. The new ABAA specialty-equipment association has placed the opening of this segment of the market high on its agenda.

Engine Performance

Resolution 291 allows Brazilian consumers to increase engine power by no more than 10%. Performance-enhancing products, such as exhaust systems, air intakes and superchargers are allowed. Once the desired upgrades are made, the owner is required to have the vehicle tested at the Division of Motor Vehicles or an approved testing agency. The vehicle is tested on a chassis dynamometer, and the results are compared with those of a stock model.

Wheels

	Car customizing is extremely popular in China. Specialty automotive products inclusion on the bilateral U.S. and Chinese government is a positive step in assisting the Chinese government in developing a pro-business regulatory system governing our industry.

As of January 2013, Brazil is planning to require wheels to meet SAE standard J2530. SEMA worked with SAE to develop SAE J2530, entitled “Aftermarket Wheels-Passenger Cars and Light Truck-Performance Requirements and Test Procedures.”

Unlike in the U.S., the new Brazilian requirements will mandate that not only will Brazilian wheel manufacturers and importers be required to test to these standards but will also be required to submit the wheels to outside testing and verification.

China

In a SEMA-supported development, the U.S. government announced recently that the U.S. and Chinese governments have agreed to include the legalization of the Chinese specialty-equipment market as part of high-level U.S.-Chinese government talks.

Chaired by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, the members of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade held a meeting in Chengdu, China, November 20 and 21. Other participants included U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke and representatives from the State and Treasury Departments. Senior Chinese officials from 23 ministries and agencies also attended.

Slated for discussion on the upcoming talks are the U.S. system for regulating the industry, to be used as a reference point while the Chinese government explores creating a legal framework in that country, as well as the current state of the industry and its market potential.

The United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the seven United Arab Emirates, has suddenly begun to crack down on aftermarket exhaust systems deemed too noisy. Stakeholders in that market and the surrounding emirates are seeking a solution that would allow vehicle modifications that meet preset noise levels.

SEMA News—June 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Linda Spencer

Global Legislation and Regulation Roundup

Specialty Parts Status Around the World

Below is a roundup of proposed or recently enacted legislative and regulatory developments affecting the specialty-equipment industry in key overseas markets. For more information on overseas developments, SEMA members are invited to contact SEMA Director of International and Government Relations Linda Spencer.

Australia

	The State of Victoria has removed its ban on lift kits for 4x4 vehicles. Trucks with lift kits/wheel/tire combinations of no more than 75mm are allowed without the need for outside certification.

Things have been relatively quiet in the past year on the legislative/regulatory front in Australia, according to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). Stuart Charity, the association’s executive director, said that hard-fought battles in the prior year have paid off, and some regulators appear to be shying away from imposing new restrictions on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“Our high-profile wins on suspension, emissions (IM240) and bull bars, together with a change of government in some key states, has seen the transport regulators agenda of tightening up vehicle modifications grind to a halt,” Charity said. “In fact, we are starting to see momentum move the other way [i.e., relaxing of standards] in New South Wales, which was the biggest protagonist a few years ago.”

Among ongoing issues, the AAAA has been working with the Australian state of Victoria over two topics, including suspension upgrades for 4x4s and modifications for vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The state of Victoria is now on record as stating that consumers can raise their 4WD vehicles up to 75mm (2.95-in.). A 50mm maximum is allowed for suspension lift plus a 25mm increase from the fitment of tires with 50mm greater outside diameter. The modifications must be undertaken using a commercially available lift kit that has been specially designed and tested for the vehicle.

Vehicles can be also be modified beyond the parameters outlined under VSB14, provided that the vehicle is inspected by an independent signatory engineer registered with Vicroads (the state road and traffic authority in Victoria) and the modification has been deemed to be safe.

Vehicle Modification on ESC-Fitted Vehicles

Vicroads also made significant AAAA-supported amendments to the section on modification of vehicles fitted with ESC. The regulation now allows for ESC-fitted vehicles to be modified, provided that testing is undertaken to determine that the modification does not adversely affect the operation of the ESC unit. The previous Vicroads position was that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified without permission from the vehicle manufacturer. (It should be noted that these changes are only for vehicles registered in Victoria; however, other jurisdictions may take similar positions once they enact VSB 14 into their local regulations.)

Information on these developments as well as a review of all state laws are included in a new publication that Vicroads has released. It is entitled VSI 08 “Guide to Modifications for Motor Vehicles” and can be downloaded.

“While I understand that there is still plenty of ‘grey’ regarding vehicle modification of ESC-equipped vehicles in Victoria, the original position of Vicroads back in 2009 was that that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified at all without permission from the vehicle manufacturer—so the current wording of the regulation is a big improvement on that,” Charity said.

Brazil

Prior to 2008, vehicle modifications were officially not allowed in Brazil, according Eduardo Bernasconi, the founder of the new Brazilian Associacao Brasileira de Acessorios Automotivos (Brazilian Association of Automotive Accessories, or ABAA). Bernasconi said that the current rules, while still not fully transparent nor sufficiently stable or free of unnecessary restriction, represent an improvement of the situation from five years ago.

Suspension Upgrades

Consumers are allowed to lower their vehicles but must allow a minimum of 41cm (16.14-in.) from the ground, measured from the center of the headlights.

Air-ride suspension and coil-over kits are currently not allowed. The new ABAA specialty-equipment association has placed the opening of this segment of the market high on its agenda.

Engine Performance

Resolution 291 allows Brazilian consumers to increase engine power by no more than 10%. Performance-enhancing products, such as exhaust systems, air intakes and superchargers are allowed. Once the desired upgrades are made, the owner is required to have the vehicle tested at the Division of Motor Vehicles or an approved testing agency. The vehicle is tested on a chassis dynamometer, and the results are compared with those of a stock model.

Wheels

	Car customizing is extremely popular in China. Specialty automotive products inclusion on the bilateral U.S. and Chinese government is a positive step in assisting the Chinese government in developing a pro-business regulatory system governing our industry.

As of January 2013, Brazil is planning to require wheels to meet SAE standard J2530. SEMA worked with SAE to develop SAE J2530, entitled “Aftermarket Wheels-Passenger Cars and Light Truck-Performance Requirements and Test Procedures.”

Unlike in the U.S., the new Brazilian requirements will mandate that not only will Brazilian wheel manufacturers and importers be required to test to these standards but will also be required to submit the wheels to outside testing and verification.

China

In a SEMA-supported development, the U.S. government announced recently that the U.S. and Chinese governments have agreed to include the legalization of the Chinese specialty-equipment market as part of high-level U.S.-Chinese government talks.

Chaired by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, the members of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade held a meeting in Chengdu, China, November 20 and 21. Other participants included U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke and representatives from the State and Treasury Departments. Senior Chinese officials from 23 ministries and agencies also attended.

Slated for discussion on the upcoming talks are the U.S. system for regulating the industry, to be used as a reference point while the Chinese government explores creating a legal framework in that country, as well as the current state of the industry and its market potential.

The United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the seven United Arab Emirates, has suddenly begun to crack down on aftermarket exhaust systems deemed too noisy. Stakeholders in that market and the surrounding emirates are seeking a solution that would allow vehicle modifications that meet preset noise levels.

SEMA News—June 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Linda Spencer

Global Legislation and Regulation Roundup

Specialty Parts Status Around the World

Below is a roundup of proposed or recently enacted legislative and regulatory developments affecting the specialty-equipment industry in key overseas markets. For more information on overseas developments, SEMA members are invited to contact SEMA Director of International and Government Relations Linda Spencer.

Australia

	The State of Victoria has removed its ban on lift kits for 4x4 vehicles. Trucks with lift kits/wheel/tire combinations of no more than 75mm are allowed without the need for outside certification.

Things have been relatively quiet in the past year on the legislative/regulatory front in Australia, according to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). Stuart Charity, the association’s executive director, said that hard-fought battles in the prior year have paid off, and some regulators appear to be shying away from imposing new restrictions on the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“Our high-profile wins on suspension, emissions (IM240) and bull bars, together with a change of government in some key states, has seen the transport regulators agenda of tightening up vehicle modifications grind to a halt,” Charity said. “In fact, we are starting to see momentum move the other way [i.e., relaxing of standards] in New South Wales, which was the biggest protagonist a few years ago.”

Among ongoing issues, the AAAA has been working with the Australian state of Victoria over two topics, including suspension upgrades for 4x4s and modifications for vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The state of Victoria is now on record as stating that consumers can raise their 4WD vehicles up to 75mm (2.95-in.). A 50mm maximum is allowed for suspension lift plus a 25mm increase from the fitment of tires with 50mm greater outside diameter. The modifications must be undertaken using a commercially available lift kit that has been specially designed and tested for the vehicle.

Vehicles can be also be modified beyond the parameters outlined under VSB14, provided that the vehicle is inspected by an independent signatory engineer registered with Vicroads (the state road and traffic authority in Victoria) and the modification has been deemed to be safe.

Vehicle Modification on ESC-Fitted Vehicles

Vicroads also made significant AAAA-supported amendments to the section on modification of vehicles fitted with ESC. The regulation now allows for ESC-fitted vehicles to be modified, provided that testing is undertaken to determine that the modification does not adversely affect the operation of the ESC unit. The previous Vicroads position was that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified without permission from the vehicle manufacturer. (It should be noted that these changes are only for vehicles registered in Victoria; however, other jurisdictions may take similar positions once they enact VSB 14 into their local regulations.)

Information on these developments as well as a review of all state laws are included in a new publication that Vicroads has released. It is entitled VSI 08 “Guide to Modifications for Motor Vehicles” and can be downloaded.

“While I understand that there is still plenty of ‘grey’ regarding vehicle modification of ESC-equipped vehicles in Victoria, the original position of Vicroads back in 2009 was that that the wheels, tires, steering and suspension of vehicles fitted with ESC could not be modified at all without permission from the vehicle manufacturer—so the current wording of the regulation is a big improvement on that,” Charity said.

Brazil

Prior to 2008, vehicle modifications were officially not allowed in Brazil, according Eduardo Bernasconi, the founder of the new Brazilian Associacao Brasileira de Acessorios Automotivos (Brazilian Association of Automotive Accessories, or ABAA). Bernasconi said that the current rules, while still not fully transparent nor sufficiently stable or free of unnecessary restriction, represent an improvement of the situation from five years ago.

Suspension Upgrades

Consumers are allowed to lower their vehicles but must allow a minimum of 41cm (16.14-in.) from the ground, measured from the center of the headlights.

Air-ride suspension and coil-over kits are currently not allowed. The new ABAA specialty-equipment association has placed the opening of this segment of the market high on its agenda.

Engine Performance

Resolution 291 allows Brazilian consumers to increase engine power by no more than 10%. Performance-enhancing products, such as exhaust systems, air intakes and superchargers are allowed. Once the desired upgrades are made, the owner is required to have the vehicle tested at the Division of Motor Vehicles or an approved testing agency. The vehicle is tested on a chassis dynamometer, and the results are compared with those of a stock model.

Wheels

	Car customizing is extremely popular in China. Specialty automotive products inclusion on the bilateral U.S. and Chinese government is a positive step in assisting the Chinese government in developing a pro-business regulatory system governing our industry.

As of January 2013, Brazil is planning to require wheels to meet SAE standard J2530. SEMA worked with SAE to develop SAE J2530, entitled “Aftermarket Wheels-Passenger Cars and Light Truck-Performance Requirements and Test Procedures.”

Unlike in the U.S., the new Brazilian requirements will mandate that not only will Brazilian wheel manufacturers and importers be required to test to these standards but will also be required to submit the wheels to outside testing and verification.

China

In a SEMA-supported development, the U.S. government announced recently that the U.S. and Chinese governments have agreed to include the legalization of the Chinese specialty-equipment market as part of high-level U.S.-Chinese government talks.

Chaired by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, the members of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade held a meeting in Chengdu, China, November 20 and 21. Other participants included U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke and representatives from the State and Treasury Departments. Senior Chinese officials from 23 ministries and agencies also attended.

Slated for discussion on the upcoming talks are the U.S. system for regulating the industry, to be used as a reference point while the Chinese government explores creating a legal framework in that country, as well as the current state of the industry and its market potential.

The United Arab Emirates

Sharjah, one of the seven United Arab Emirates, has suddenly begun to crack down on aftermarket exhaust systems deemed too noisy. Stakeholders in that market and the surrounding emirates are seeking a solution that would allow vehicle modifications that meet preset noise levels.

SEMA News—June 2012 

INTERNET
By Joe Dysart

Making the Most of Facebook’s Design Change

10 Tips and “Next Steps”

SEMA News—June 2012 

INTERNET
By Joe Dysart

Making the Most of Facebook’s Design Change

10 Tips and “Next Steps”