Of course, this news will probably come as no surprise to 2011 SEMA Show attendees. Buyer-registrants expressing an interest in the Truck/SUV/Van segment were up by nearly 20% over the prior year. Meanwhile, the off-roading category attracted even more buyer interest, rising by more than 22%. Among exhibitors, the South Hall saw 277 booths representing the Truck/SUV/Off-Road category—up nearly 5%—with 64 first-time exhibitors contributing to that steady expansion. All in all, the section encompassed 121,660 square feet of rugged innovation exuding high traffic and optimism.

The following pages offer another glimpse at the Show’s Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase entries dedicated to truck, SUV and off-road applications. You’ll also find interviews with key industry executives analyzing the latest trends within these segments. A common thread is an upbeat feeling for overall product sales, especially among those manufacturing off-roading items. Certainly, there are areas of caution. Regulation and a sluggish economy continue to be concerns and some product categories are still clearly outperforming others. However, after several challenging years, even cautiously positive projections offer just the sort of good news the industry has been waiting to hear.

2 Cube It Structure Rear Carrier Bag 937-695-9902 www.2cubeit.com PN: 8962306 2 Cube It innovation for rear carriers. Need added space for comfort? 2 Cube It delivers. Holds shape full or empty.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
ARB 4x4 Accessories Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor 888-427-2872 www.arbusa.com PN: CKMTP12 ARB’s twin-motor compressor was designed as a compact, performance tool that will meet high-volume air inflation requirements and run power tools. 100% duty cycle; 6.16 cfm.		All Sales Manufacturing Inc./AMI Billet Emblem 916-933-0236 www.allsalesmfg.com Replacement grille and body emblems for Ford and Dodge trucks. Several styles and finishes to choose from.
Bolt Locks Toolbox Lock Retrofit Kit 414-247-3333 www.boltlock.com PN: 7022630 Replacement toolbox latch kit with a patented Bolt lock that works with the truck key. Learns the key code the first time you turn it!		Runner Up—Best New Exterior Accessory Product Bestop Inc. TrekStep Side- Mounted Step 800-845-3567 www.bestop.com PN: 75400-15 Bestop’s TrekStep side-mounted, spring-loaded step provides convenient access to toolboxes and gear in the truck bed. Features a 400-pound load capacity with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc. 886-6-2663121 www.bigtime.com.tw PN: BT-431 Designed for OEM and aftermarket; four multi-functions; 20 pcs; 12V/24V LEDs; ABS housing and reflector RYW LEDs.		Carriage Works Inc. Super Duty Mesh Grille 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 3918 2011 Ford Super Duty 3D mesh grille. Provides show-quality customized appearance at an affordable price.
Bushwacker Inc. GMC Extend-A-Fender Flare 503-283-4335 www.bushwacker.com PN: 40952-02 Unique three-in-one design covers multiple applications, offering flexibility for various bumpers while adding style, tire coverage and protection in an easy-to-install application.		Bubba Rope Tree Hugger 877-499-8494 www.bubbarope.com PN: 176000OR The Tree Hugger protects winch lines and trees during off-road vehicle recovery. Made from 100% polyester webbing, breaking strength of 58,000 pounds. Includes a tough, Cordura jacket, reduced eyelets, stitched-in label and duffle bag.
Carriage Works Inc. Hot Rod Muffler 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 50721 Stainless steel hot rod muffler for the custom car, truck or hot rod application. Available in 31/2-inch-diameter body 30 inches long, with inlets/outlets in 2-, 21/4- and 2 1/2-inch diameters.		Bosal USA Inc. Detachable Trailer Hitch 973-240-2227 www.bosalna.com Car manufacturers invest heavily in the design of their cars. A fixed tow hitch upsets the balance and symmetry of the car’s original design. Bosal says its detachable tow bars are the answer, because they can easily be removed when not needed, leaving the line of the car as the designer intended.
Competition 4x4 Dual Shear Tire Carrier Hinge Kit 801-798-8403 www.comp4x4.com PN: DIY012DSB Dual shear tire carrier hinge kit is a complete hinge-kit solution for fabricators and manufacturers. Fully customizable to fit a company’s needs, including laser logo.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
Convert-A-Ball Manufacturing Adjustable Cushioned Fifth-Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter C5G 308-254-7115 www.convert-a-ball.net PN: C5G C5G cushioned adapter adjusts infinitely from 12 to 16 inches, allowing the use of a gooseneck ball to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. Installs in minutes.		Extreme Max Products Gas Can Holder 651-303-1035 www.extrememax.com PN: 5400.344 The gas can holder is designed to hold gas cans, utility jugs and propane tanks securely without the use of bungees, tie-down straps or rope.
Virtual racing chair provides the ultimate experience in gaming/racing chairs. Available with or without racing seat and optional monitor mount. Electronic game components sold separately. Contractors still need toolboxes, liners, steps, racks and bed covers for their pickups, and van sales are coming back. Business has increased in van racks, shelving and interior packages. In addition, more consumers and contractors are towing, which has led to increased sales of hitches, wiring and suspension products. The Ford F-150 V6 with Ecoboost has shown great performance in its ability to tow, and midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma are very popular. Let’s hope Ford brings the UK Ranger to the U.S.! The most significant trends in SUVs include interior and exterior protection along with the increased ability to carry more cargo, with crossovers outselling larger fullsize SUVs. Rooftop boxes and hitch baskets are also hot items. Internet retailers, automobile manufacturers and industry suppliers are all looking for their share of the retail market and continue to take away sales from traditional retailers. Consumers have become extremely well educated by the Internet even before they come to our location, and they often dictate the sale. The greatest opportunity a dealer has is to go out and work the business and not wait for business to come to you. Fleet and export sales help to increase volume. —Charley Holden President, Cap World Inc.		Overall, the market seems to be stabilized. We’ve seen a pretty nice bump in sales for the fourth quarter, and I think consumers are ready to loosen up a little and start spending on accessories again. I am surprised at how well the bed-cover category is doing in the pickup market. I’m anxious to see how well the new Undercover painted program is going to do. If we move even 10% of the units painted that we move in that category overall, it will be a pretty good addition for us. As vehicle technology increases and consumers have more choices in the way they can make purchases, it will be very important for salespeople to be knowledgeable about the products they are selling. When you’re competing with online retailers and the growing number of “me too” brands, dealers who are well educated about their product offerings will have the best opportunity for growth. SEMA offers great professional learning tracks, and PWA has a whole range of product-specific lessons. With consumers armed with as much product information and technology as most main-street retailers, one of the biggest hurdles will be defining and retaining your value proposition in the marketplace. —Donnie Eatherly President and Co-Owner, P&E Distributors
Fastway Trailer Products Zip Coiled Breakaway Cable 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 80-01-2140 Zip replaces the old, frayed breakaway cable. Easy to attach, and its coiled and coated design keeps it from dragging, fraying and stabbing fingers.		Fastway Trailer Products 4-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-4500 The 4-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Fyrlyt Pty. Ltd. Fyrlyt +61 8 8365 4668 www.fyrlyt.com.au PN: 16024 Pronounced “Firelight,” the new Australian driving light company with a single focus: design engineering excellence. Boasting better than HID performance, the Fyrlyt 200 is said to set new benchmarks in high-performance driving light design.		Fox Racing Shox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks 619-768-1800 www.foxracingshox.com The all-new FOX Racing Shox 2.0 performance series shocks deliver race-dominating performance in an affordable, hassle-free, bolt-on package for all popular trucks and SUVs.
Go Rhino! Products/Big Country Truck 4-Inch Oval Hitchstep 888-427-4466 www.gorhino.com PN: 460PS This new, extra-wide step is designed to offer easy access to any truck bed, SUV or roof rack. Compatible with 2-inch receivers, this patented design also offers protection in the event of a collision. The 24-inch-long step comes with an anti-rattle device; no tools required.		Husky Liners Bed Caps 620-221-2268 www.huskyliners.com PN: 97101 A patent-pending, multi-piece, hidden-seam design ships at half the size of other bulky bed rail caps, taking up less warehouse and showroom floor space.
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product EZ Connector Inc. EZS7-02 559-686-5889 www.ezconnector.com PN: EZS7-02 The vehicle/trailer plug has a waterproof O-ring-sealed, self-closing cover; magnetically attached, spring-loaded face-to-face contacts; plug-n-play and self-closing watertight trailer plug storage.		King Shock Technology Raptor Replacement Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: 30001-401 Huge 3.0-inch bolt-on shocks are designed to be tuneable to give Raptors unparalleled damping control. Features 20-position compression adjuster in front, and external bypass adjustment in rear.
Loop EZ Pet Securing System 360-482-4180 www.loop-ez.com PN: PSS7/8 A safe way to secure the user’s pet in a truck bed with the existing holes provided by the manufacturer.		King Shock Technology 3-Inch IBP Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: RS3010-SS-IBP Huge 3.0-inch monotube, internal bypass. Advanced position and velocity-sensitive valving. Choice of coil-over or smoothie. Race-proven bypass technology in a compact, durable package.
Poly Performance Manufacturing Jeep Ball Joints 805-242-0397 www.synergysuspension.com PN: PPM-8009-12-01 Designed to replace the factory ball joint to help avoid failure on lifted Jeeps/trucks/buggies with large off-road tires. Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance.		Fastway Trailer Products 6-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-6500 The 6-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Quick-Release Mirrors for Jeep 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11025.1 Quick-release mirrors for 1997-2012 Jeep Wranglers.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11400 Slip yoke eliminator kit for NP231 transfer cases by Alloy USA.
The Jeep market is extraordinarily hot and has actually seen growth in many areas. We’re seeing more and more enthusiasts flock to new Wranglers from other brands. Likewise, many enthusiasts are coming to Jeep from rock-crawl or sand buggies because they serve more than one function: You can hit hardcore trails in your four-door JK with the whole family over the weekend and then commute to work in it during the week. For ‘07-present Wranglers, the most popular modifications are a simple lift with coil spacers and aftermarket shocks to allow larger 33- to 35-inch tires on aftermarket wheels. A large number of enthusiasts also step up to short- or long-arm suspension systems to clear 35- to 40-inch tires. Further enhancements include front winch bumpers, winches, rocker armor and rear tire carrier bumpers. Those wishing to retain their 3.8L JK engines clamor for upgrades such as cold-air intakes, headers, after-cat exhaust systems and electronic programmers to bolster the power output and control or bypass factory functions like electronic sway-bar actuation, locker engagement, turning off the ESP and other features. Overall, we’re seeing lighter, smarter products that deliver protection off-road without a daily-driving weight penalty at the pump. —Christian Hazel Editor, Jp Magazine		One area of growth has been what I call the “value alternative.” In many cases, there is a dominant brand within a given category that typically has been around for a long time and has cultivated strong consumer demand. This brand typically carries a premium price point and low profit margins. We’ve seen a growth in brands that offer a quality product at a lower price point with higher profit margins and profit dollars. The challenge for distributors is that strong competition has diminished profit margins. Distributors can sell this “value alternative” product at a lower price point and make more money. It is not good for the name brand (unless it offers the “value alternative”), but the distributor and consumer walk away satisfied. Success these days is being had by those who are willing to search beyond the norm. An overall positive buying experience is necessary to keep customers on either the wholesale or retail side. Fit the products you offer to the business model you have. Or change the business model to fit the products you are selling. Consumers have more outlets to source the products they want, and they will gravitate to the companies that satisfy their desires. —Jerry Nuñez President, Innovative Marketing Services, LLC
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Front Floor Liners 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 12920.29 Custom-fit all-terrain floor liners for 2011-2012 Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.		Pop & Lock Corp. Colorado/Canyon Tailgate Lock 800-342-5911 www.popandlock.net PN: Pl1700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Colorado/Canyon/Dmax 2005 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Upgraded Transfer Case Drivetrain 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11650 Alloy USA upgraded drivetrain chain for Jeep vehicles.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Ring and Pinion, 4.10 Ratio for Jeep JK Wrangler by Alloy USA 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: D44410JK Alloy USA ring-and-pinion sets for Jeep JK Wranglers offer strength and restore performance when installing larger tires. Made for Dana 44, 4.10 ratio.
Phoenix Design & Manufacturing LLC Illuma Step 888-789-2550 www.phoenixdesignmfg.com PN: H022102 Factory OE-look lighted running board. Available in stainless steel and powder-coat black. The 6-inch-wide step is safer than regular tube steps. Slip-resistant rubber step area. Stylish molded end caps add streamline appeal. Easy-install mounting brackets.		Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.		Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express 80 Series Wheel 800-776-0767 www.procompusa.com PN: 36 series High-performance alloy wheel with a super-strong split five-spoke design and race-inspired simulated bead lock.
ProRyde Suspension Systems LiftMachine Adjustable Lift/Leveling Kit 888-813-7933 www.proryde.com PN: 74-Series One kit, lift options from 1.5 to 3.0 inches, varying by make and model. Whether it’s bigger tire and wheel combinations you’re after, or an aggressive, lifted look, ProRyde says that its products are your adjustable choice.		Protective Polymers LLC ProSkins 918-764-9502 www.protectivepolymers.com ProSkins were developed for the aftermarket truck accessories world. ProSkins are manufactured using tough, durable, spray-on bed liner material. ProSkins are said to deliver ultimate performance against impact and corrosion for all types of metal or painted surfaces.
ReadyLift Suspension Inc. Off-Road Suspension Upper Control Arms 702-410-2300 www.readylift.com Tab and slot boxed plate arm construction. Teflon-lined 1-inch uniball for the outer pivot. Urethane bushings for the inner pivot. 4340 heat-treated conversion pin.		RBP/Rolling Big Power, a Division of Lexani The Grappler Tow Hook 877-519-9090 www.rollingbigpower.com PN: 990001 The Grappler tow hook/step.

Of course, this news will probably come as no surprise to 2011 SEMA Show attendees. Buyer-registrants expressing an interest in the Truck/SUV/Van segment were up by nearly 20% over the prior year. Meanwhile, the off-roading category attracted even more buyer interest, rising by more than 22%. Among exhibitors, the South Hall saw 277 booths representing the Truck/SUV/Off-Road category—up nearly 5%—with 64 first-time exhibitors contributing to that steady expansion. All in all, the section encompassed 121,660 square feet of rugged innovation exuding high traffic and optimism.

The following pages offer another glimpse at the Show’s Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase entries dedicated to truck, SUV and off-road applications. You’ll also find interviews with key industry executives analyzing the latest trends within these segments. A common thread is an upbeat feeling for overall product sales, especially among those manufacturing off-roading items. Certainly, there are areas of caution. Regulation and a sluggish economy continue to be concerns and some product categories are still clearly outperforming others. However, after several challenging years, even cautiously positive projections offer just the sort of good news the industry has been waiting to hear.

2 Cube It Structure Rear Carrier Bag 937-695-9902 www.2cubeit.com PN: 8962306 2 Cube It innovation for rear carriers. Need added space for comfort? 2 Cube It delivers. Holds shape full or empty.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
ARB 4x4 Accessories Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor 888-427-2872 www.arbusa.com PN: CKMTP12 ARB’s twin-motor compressor was designed as a compact, performance tool that will meet high-volume air inflation requirements and run power tools. 100% duty cycle; 6.16 cfm.		All Sales Manufacturing Inc./AMI Billet Emblem 916-933-0236 www.allsalesmfg.com Replacement grille and body emblems for Ford and Dodge trucks. Several styles and finishes to choose from.
Bolt Locks Toolbox Lock Retrofit Kit 414-247-3333 www.boltlock.com PN: 7022630 Replacement toolbox latch kit with a patented Bolt lock that works with the truck key. Learns the key code the first time you turn it!		Runner Up—Best New Exterior Accessory Product Bestop Inc. TrekStep Side- Mounted Step 800-845-3567 www.bestop.com PN: 75400-15 Bestop’s TrekStep side-mounted, spring-loaded step provides convenient access to toolboxes and gear in the truck bed. Features a 400-pound load capacity with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc. 886-6-2663121 www.bigtime.com.tw PN: BT-431 Designed for OEM and aftermarket; four multi-functions; 20 pcs; 12V/24V LEDs; ABS housing and reflector RYW LEDs.		Carriage Works Inc. Super Duty Mesh Grille 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 3918 2011 Ford Super Duty 3D mesh grille. Provides show-quality customized appearance at an affordable price.
Bushwacker Inc. GMC Extend-A-Fender Flare 503-283-4335 www.bushwacker.com PN: 40952-02 Unique three-in-one design covers multiple applications, offering flexibility for various bumpers while adding style, tire coverage and protection in an easy-to-install application.		Bubba Rope Tree Hugger 877-499-8494 www.bubbarope.com PN: 176000OR The Tree Hugger protects winch lines and trees during off-road vehicle recovery. Made from 100% polyester webbing, breaking strength of 58,000 pounds. Includes a tough, Cordura jacket, reduced eyelets, stitched-in label and duffle bag.
Carriage Works Inc. Hot Rod Muffler 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 50721 Stainless steel hot rod muffler for the custom car, truck or hot rod application. Available in 31/2-inch-diameter body 30 inches long, with inlets/outlets in 2-, 21/4- and 2 1/2-inch diameters.		Bosal USA Inc. Detachable Trailer Hitch 973-240-2227 www.bosalna.com Car manufacturers invest heavily in the design of their cars. A fixed tow hitch upsets the balance and symmetry of the car’s original design. Bosal says its detachable tow bars are the answer, because they can easily be removed when not needed, leaving the line of the car as the designer intended.
Competition 4x4 Dual Shear Tire Carrier Hinge Kit 801-798-8403 www.comp4x4.com PN: DIY012DSB Dual shear tire carrier hinge kit is a complete hinge-kit solution for fabricators and manufacturers. Fully customizable to fit a company’s needs, including laser logo.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
Convert-A-Ball Manufacturing Adjustable Cushioned Fifth-Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter C5G 308-254-7115 www.convert-a-ball.net PN: C5G C5G cushioned adapter adjusts infinitely from 12 to 16 inches, allowing the use of a gooseneck ball to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. Installs in minutes.		Extreme Max Products Gas Can Holder 651-303-1035 www.extrememax.com PN: 5400.344 The gas can holder is designed to hold gas cans, utility jugs and propane tanks securely without the use of bungees, tie-down straps or rope.
Virtual racing chair provides the ultimate experience in gaming/racing chairs. Available with or without racing seat and optional monitor mount. Electronic game components sold separately. Contractors still need toolboxes, liners, steps, racks and bed covers for their pickups, and van sales are coming back. Business has increased in van racks, shelving and interior packages. In addition, more consumers and contractors are towing, which has led to increased sales of hitches, wiring and suspension products. The Ford F-150 V6 with Ecoboost has shown great performance in its ability to tow, and midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma are very popular. Let’s hope Ford brings the UK Ranger to the U.S.! The most significant trends in SUVs include interior and exterior protection along with the increased ability to carry more cargo, with crossovers outselling larger fullsize SUVs. Rooftop boxes and hitch baskets are also hot items. Internet retailers, automobile manufacturers and industry suppliers are all looking for their share of the retail market and continue to take away sales from traditional retailers. Consumers have become extremely well educated by the Internet even before they come to our location, and they often dictate the sale. The greatest opportunity a dealer has is to go out and work the business and not wait for business to come to you. Fleet and export sales help to increase volume. —Charley Holden President, Cap World Inc.		Overall, the market seems to be stabilized. We’ve seen a pretty nice bump in sales for the fourth quarter, and I think consumers are ready to loosen up a little and start spending on accessories again. I am surprised at how well the bed-cover category is doing in the pickup market. I’m anxious to see how well the new Undercover painted program is going to do. If we move even 10% of the units painted that we move in that category overall, it will be a pretty good addition for us. As vehicle technology increases and consumers have more choices in the way they can make purchases, it will be very important for salespeople to be knowledgeable about the products they are selling. When you’re competing with online retailers and the growing number of “me too” brands, dealers who are well educated about their product offerings will have the best opportunity for growth. SEMA offers great professional learning tracks, and PWA has a whole range of product-specific lessons. With consumers armed with as much product information and technology as most main-street retailers, one of the biggest hurdles will be defining and retaining your value proposition in the marketplace. —Donnie Eatherly President and Co-Owner, P&E Distributors
Fastway Trailer Products Zip Coiled Breakaway Cable 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 80-01-2140 Zip replaces the old, frayed breakaway cable. Easy to attach, and its coiled and coated design keeps it from dragging, fraying and stabbing fingers.		Fastway Trailer Products 4-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-4500 The 4-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Fyrlyt Pty. Ltd. Fyrlyt +61 8 8365 4668 www.fyrlyt.com.au PN: 16024 Pronounced “Firelight,” the new Australian driving light company with a single focus: design engineering excellence. Boasting better than HID performance, the Fyrlyt 200 is said to set new benchmarks in high-performance driving light design.		Fox Racing Shox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks 619-768-1800 www.foxracingshox.com The all-new FOX Racing Shox 2.0 performance series shocks deliver race-dominating performance in an affordable, hassle-free, bolt-on package for all popular trucks and SUVs.
Go Rhino! Products/Big Country Truck 4-Inch Oval Hitchstep 888-427-4466 www.gorhino.com PN: 460PS This new, extra-wide step is designed to offer easy access to any truck bed, SUV or roof rack. Compatible with 2-inch receivers, this patented design also offers protection in the event of a collision. The 24-inch-long step comes with an anti-rattle device; no tools required.		Husky Liners Bed Caps 620-221-2268 www.huskyliners.com PN: 97101 A patent-pending, multi-piece, hidden-seam design ships at half the size of other bulky bed rail caps, taking up less warehouse and showroom floor space.
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product EZ Connector Inc. EZS7-02 559-686-5889 www.ezconnector.com PN: EZS7-02 The vehicle/trailer plug has a waterproof O-ring-sealed, self-closing cover; magnetically attached, spring-loaded face-to-face contacts; plug-n-play and self-closing watertight trailer plug storage.		King Shock Technology Raptor Replacement Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: 30001-401 Huge 3.0-inch bolt-on shocks are designed to be tuneable to give Raptors unparalleled damping control. Features 20-position compression adjuster in front, and external bypass adjustment in rear.
Loop EZ Pet Securing System 360-482-4180 www.loop-ez.com PN: PSS7/8 A safe way to secure the user’s pet in a truck bed with the existing holes provided by the manufacturer.		King Shock Technology 3-Inch IBP Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: RS3010-SS-IBP Huge 3.0-inch monotube, internal bypass. Advanced position and velocity-sensitive valving. Choice of coil-over or smoothie. Race-proven bypass technology in a compact, durable package.
Poly Performance Manufacturing Jeep Ball Joints 805-242-0397 www.synergysuspension.com PN: PPM-8009-12-01 Designed to replace the factory ball joint to help avoid failure on lifted Jeeps/trucks/buggies with large off-road tires. Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance.		Fastway Trailer Products 6-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-6500 The 6-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Quick-Release Mirrors for Jeep 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11025.1 Quick-release mirrors for 1997-2012 Jeep Wranglers.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11400 Slip yoke eliminator kit for NP231 transfer cases by Alloy USA.
The Jeep market is extraordinarily hot and has actually seen growth in many areas. We’re seeing more and more enthusiasts flock to new Wranglers from other brands. Likewise, many enthusiasts are coming to Jeep from rock-crawl or sand buggies because they serve more than one function: You can hit hardcore trails in your four-door JK with the whole family over the weekend and then commute to work in it during the week. For ‘07-present Wranglers, the most popular modifications are a simple lift with coil spacers and aftermarket shocks to allow larger 33- to 35-inch tires on aftermarket wheels. A large number of enthusiasts also step up to short- or long-arm suspension systems to clear 35- to 40-inch tires. Further enhancements include front winch bumpers, winches, rocker armor and rear tire carrier bumpers. Those wishing to retain their 3.8L JK engines clamor for upgrades such as cold-air intakes, headers, after-cat exhaust systems and electronic programmers to bolster the power output and control or bypass factory functions like electronic sway-bar actuation, locker engagement, turning off the ESP and other features. Overall, we’re seeing lighter, smarter products that deliver protection off-road without a daily-driving weight penalty at the pump. —Christian Hazel Editor, Jp Magazine		One area of growth has been what I call the “value alternative.” In many cases, there is a dominant brand within a given category that typically has been around for a long time and has cultivated strong consumer demand. This brand typically carries a premium price point and low profit margins. We’ve seen a growth in brands that offer a quality product at a lower price point with higher profit margins and profit dollars. The challenge for distributors is that strong competition has diminished profit margins. Distributors can sell this “value alternative” product at a lower price point and make more money. It is not good for the name brand (unless it offers the “value alternative”), but the distributor and consumer walk away satisfied. Success these days is being had by those who are willing to search beyond the norm. An overall positive buying experience is necessary to keep customers on either the wholesale or retail side. Fit the products you offer to the business model you have. Or change the business model to fit the products you are selling. Consumers have more outlets to source the products they want, and they will gravitate to the companies that satisfy their desires. —Jerry Nuñez President, Innovative Marketing Services, LLC
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Front Floor Liners 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 12920.29 Custom-fit all-terrain floor liners for 2011-2012 Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.		Pop & Lock Corp. Colorado/Canyon Tailgate Lock 800-342-5911 www.popandlock.net PN: Pl1700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Colorado/Canyon/Dmax 2005 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Upgraded Transfer Case Drivetrain 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11650 Alloy USA upgraded drivetrain chain for Jeep vehicles.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Ring and Pinion, 4.10 Ratio for Jeep JK Wrangler by Alloy USA 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: D44410JK Alloy USA ring-and-pinion sets for Jeep JK Wranglers offer strength and restore performance when installing larger tires. Made for Dana 44, 4.10 ratio.
Phoenix Design & Manufacturing LLC Illuma Step 888-789-2550 www.phoenixdesignmfg.com PN: H022102 Factory OE-look lighted running board. Available in stainless steel and powder-coat black. The 6-inch-wide step is safer than regular tube steps. Slip-resistant rubber step area. Stylish molded end caps add streamline appeal. Easy-install mounting brackets.		Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.		Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express 80 Series Wheel 800-776-0767 www.procompusa.com PN: 36 series High-performance alloy wheel with a super-strong split five-spoke design and race-inspired simulated bead lock.
ProRyde Suspension Systems LiftMachine Adjustable Lift/Leveling Kit 888-813-7933 www.proryde.com PN: 74-Series One kit, lift options from 1.5 to 3.0 inches, varying by make and model. Whether it’s bigger tire and wheel combinations you’re after, or an aggressive, lifted look, ProRyde says that its products are your adjustable choice.		Protective Polymers LLC ProSkins 918-764-9502 www.protectivepolymers.com ProSkins were developed for the aftermarket truck accessories world. ProSkins are manufactured using tough, durable, spray-on bed liner material. ProSkins are said to deliver ultimate performance against impact and corrosion for all types of metal or painted surfaces.
ReadyLift Suspension Inc. Off-Road Suspension Upper Control Arms 702-410-2300 www.readylift.com Tab and slot boxed plate arm construction. Teflon-lined 1-inch uniball for the outer pivot. Urethane bushings for the inner pivot. 4340 heat-treated conversion pin.		RBP/Rolling Big Power, a Division of Lexani The Grappler Tow Hook 877-519-9090 www.rollingbigpower.com PN: 990001 The Grappler tow hook/step.

Of course, this news will probably come as no surprise to 2011 SEMA Show attendees. Buyer-registrants expressing an interest in the Truck/SUV/Van segment were up by nearly 20% over the prior year. Meanwhile, the off-roading category attracted even more buyer interest, rising by more than 22%. Among exhibitors, the South Hall saw 277 booths representing the Truck/SUV/Off-Road category—up nearly 5%—with 64 first-time exhibitors contributing to that steady expansion. All in all, the section encompassed 121,660 square feet of rugged innovation exuding high traffic and optimism.

The following pages offer another glimpse at the Show’s Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase entries dedicated to truck, SUV and off-road applications. You’ll also find interviews with key industry executives analyzing the latest trends within these segments. A common thread is an upbeat feeling for overall product sales, especially among those manufacturing off-roading items. Certainly, there are areas of caution. Regulation and a sluggish economy continue to be concerns and some product categories are still clearly outperforming others. However, after several challenging years, even cautiously positive projections offer just the sort of good news the industry has been waiting to hear.

2 Cube It Structure Rear Carrier Bag 937-695-9902 www.2cubeit.com PN: 8962306 2 Cube It innovation for rear carriers. Need added space for comfort? 2 Cube It delivers. Holds shape full or empty.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
ARB 4x4 Accessories Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor 888-427-2872 www.arbusa.com PN: CKMTP12 ARB’s twin-motor compressor was designed as a compact, performance tool that will meet high-volume air inflation requirements and run power tools. 100% duty cycle; 6.16 cfm.		All Sales Manufacturing Inc./AMI Billet Emblem 916-933-0236 www.allsalesmfg.com Replacement grille and body emblems for Ford and Dodge trucks. Several styles and finishes to choose from.
Bolt Locks Toolbox Lock Retrofit Kit 414-247-3333 www.boltlock.com PN: 7022630 Replacement toolbox latch kit with a patented Bolt lock that works with the truck key. Learns the key code the first time you turn it!		Runner Up—Best New Exterior Accessory Product Bestop Inc. TrekStep Side- Mounted Step 800-845-3567 www.bestop.com PN: 75400-15 Bestop’s TrekStep side-mounted, spring-loaded step provides convenient access to toolboxes and gear in the truck bed. Features a 400-pound load capacity with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc. 886-6-2663121 www.bigtime.com.tw PN: BT-431 Designed for OEM and aftermarket; four multi-functions; 20 pcs; 12V/24V LEDs; ABS housing and reflector RYW LEDs.		Carriage Works Inc. Super Duty Mesh Grille 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 3918 2011 Ford Super Duty 3D mesh grille. Provides show-quality customized appearance at an affordable price.
Bushwacker Inc. GMC Extend-A-Fender Flare 503-283-4335 www.bushwacker.com PN: 40952-02 Unique three-in-one design covers multiple applications, offering flexibility for various bumpers while adding style, tire coverage and protection in an easy-to-install application.		Bubba Rope Tree Hugger 877-499-8494 www.bubbarope.com PN: 176000OR The Tree Hugger protects winch lines and trees during off-road vehicle recovery. Made from 100% polyester webbing, breaking strength of 58,000 pounds. Includes a tough, Cordura jacket, reduced eyelets, stitched-in label and duffle bag.
Carriage Works Inc. Hot Rod Muffler 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 50721 Stainless steel hot rod muffler for the custom car, truck or hot rod application. Available in 31/2-inch-diameter body 30 inches long, with inlets/outlets in 2-, 21/4- and 2 1/2-inch diameters.		Bosal USA Inc. Detachable Trailer Hitch 973-240-2227 www.bosalna.com Car manufacturers invest heavily in the design of their cars. A fixed tow hitch upsets the balance and symmetry of the car’s original design. Bosal says its detachable tow bars are the answer, because they can easily be removed when not needed, leaving the line of the car as the designer intended.
Competition 4x4 Dual Shear Tire Carrier Hinge Kit 801-798-8403 www.comp4x4.com PN: DIY012DSB Dual shear tire carrier hinge kit is a complete hinge-kit solution for fabricators and manufacturers. Fully customizable to fit a company’s needs, including laser logo.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
Convert-A-Ball Manufacturing Adjustable Cushioned Fifth-Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter C5G 308-254-7115 www.convert-a-ball.net PN: C5G C5G cushioned adapter adjusts infinitely from 12 to 16 inches, allowing the use of a gooseneck ball to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. Installs in minutes.		Extreme Max Products Gas Can Holder 651-303-1035 www.extrememax.com PN: 5400.344 The gas can holder is designed to hold gas cans, utility jugs and propane tanks securely without the use of bungees, tie-down straps or rope.
Virtual racing chair provides the ultimate experience in gaming/racing chairs. Available with or without racing seat and optional monitor mount. Electronic game components sold separately. Contractors still need toolboxes, liners, steps, racks and bed covers for their pickups, and van sales are coming back. Business has increased in van racks, shelving and interior packages. In addition, more consumers and contractors are towing, which has led to increased sales of hitches, wiring and suspension products. The Ford F-150 V6 with Ecoboost has shown great performance in its ability to tow, and midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma are very popular. Let’s hope Ford brings the UK Ranger to the U.S.! The most significant trends in SUVs include interior and exterior protection along with the increased ability to carry more cargo, with crossovers outselling larger fullsize SUVs. Rooftop boxes and hitch baskets are also hot items. Internet retailers, automobile manufacturers and industry suppliers are all looking for their share of the retail market and continue to take away sales from traditional retailers. Consumers have become extremely well educated by the Internet even before they come to our location, and they often dictate the sale. The greatest opportunity a dealer has is to go out and work the business and not wait for business to come to you. Fleet and export sales help to increase volume. —Charley Holden President, Cap World Inc.		Overall, the market seems to be stabilized. We’ve seen a pretty nice bump in sales for the fourth quarter, and I think consumers are ready to loosen up a little and start spending on accessories again. I am surprised at how well the bed-cover category is doing in the pickup market. I’m anxious to see how well the new Undercover painted program is going to do. If we move even 10% of the units painted that we move in that category overall, it will be a pretty good addition for us. As vehicle technology increases and consumers have more choices in the way they can make purchases, it will be very important for salespeople to be knowledgeable about the products they are selling. When you’re competing with online retailers and the growing number of “me too” brands, dealers who are well educated about their product offerings will have the best opportunity for growth. SEMA offers great professional learning tracks, and PWA has a whole range of product-specific lessons. With consumers armed with as much product information and technology as most main-street retailers, one of the biggest hurdles will be defining and retaining your value proposition in the marketplace. —Donnie Eatherly President and Co-Owner, P&E Distributors
Fastway Trailer Products Zip Coiled Breakaway Cable 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 80-01-2140 Zip replaces the old, frayed breakaway cable. Easy to attach, and its coiled and coated design keeps it from dragging, fraying and stabbing fingers.		Fastway Trailer Products 4-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-4500 The 4-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Fyrlyt Pty. Ltd. Fyrlyt +61 8 8365 4668 www.fyrlyt.com.au PN: 16024 Pronounced “Firelight,” the new Australian driving light company with a single focus: design engineering excellence. Boasting better than HID performance, the Fyrlyt 200 is said to set new benchmarks in high-performance driving light design.		Fox Racing Shox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks 619-768-1800 www.foxracingshox.com The all-new FOX Racing Shox 2.0 performance series shocks deliver race-dominating performance in an affordable, hassle-free, bolt-on package for all popular trucks and SUVs.
Go Rhino! Products/Big Country Truck 4-Inch Oval Hitchstep 888-427-4466 www.gorhino.com PN: 460PS This new, extra-wide step is designed to offer easy access to any truck bed, SUV or roof rack. Compatible with 2-inch receivers, this patented design also offers protection in the event of a collision. The 24-inch-long step comes with an anti-rattle device; no tools required.		Husky Liners Bed Caps 620-221-2268 www.huskyliners.com PN: 97101 A patent-pending, multi-piece, hidden-seam design ships at half the size of other bulky bed rail caps, taking up less warehouse and showroom floor space.
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product EZ Connector Inc. EZS7-02 559-686-5889 www.ezconnector.com PN: EZS7-02 The vehicle/trailer plug has a waterproof O-ring-sealed, self-closing cover; magnetically attached, spring-loaded face-to-face contacts; plug-n-play and self-closing watertight trailer plug storage.		King Shock Technology Raptor Replacement Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: 30001-401 Huge 3.0-inch bolt-on shocks are designed to be tuneable to give Raptors unparalleled damping control. Features 20-position compression adjuster in front, and external bypass adjustment in rear.
Loop EZ Pet Securing System 360-482-4180 www.loop-ez.com PN: PSS7/8 A safe way to secure the user’s pet in a truck bed with the existing holes provided by the manufacturer.		King Shock Technology 3-Inch IBP Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: RS3010-SS-IBP Huge 3.0-inch monotube, internal bypass. Advanced position and velocity-sensitive valving. Choice of coil-over or smoothie. Race-proven bypass technology in a compact, durable package.
Poly Performance Manufacturing Jeep Ball Joints 805-242-0397 www.synergysuspension.com PN: PPM-8009-12-01 Designed to replace the factory ball joint to help avoid failure on lifted Jeeps/trucks/buggies with large off-road tires. Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance.		Fastway Trailer Products 6-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-6500 The 6-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Quick-Release Mirrors for Jeep 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11025.1 Quick-release mirrors for 1997-2012 Jeep Wranglers.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11400 Slip yoke eliminator kit for NP231 transfer cases by Alloy USA.
The Jeep market is extraordinarily hot and has actually seen growth in many areas. We’re seeing more and more enthusiasts flock to new Wranglers from other brands. Likewise, many enthusiasts are coming to Jeep from rock-crawl or sand buggies because they serve more than one function: You can hit hardcore trails in your four-door JK with the whole family over the weekend and then commute to work in it during the week. For ‘07-present Wranglers, the most popular modifications are a simple lift with coil spacers and aftermarket shocks to allow larger 33- to 35-inch tires on aftermarket wheels. A large number of enthusiasts also step up to short- or long-arm suspension systems to clear 35- to 40-inch tires. Further enhancements include front winch bumpers, winches, rocker armor and rear tire carrier bumpers. Those wishing to retain their 3.8L JK engines clamor for upgrades such as cold-air intakes, headers, after-cat exhaust systems and electronic programmers to bolster the power output and control or bypass factory functions like electronic sway-bar actuation, locker engagement, turning off the ESP and other features. Overall, we’re seeing lighter, smarter products that deliver protection off-road without a daily-driving weight penalty at the pump. —Christian Hazel Editor, Jp Magazine		One area of growth has been what I call the “value alternative.” In many cases, there is a dominant brand within a given category that typically has been around for a long time and has cultivated strong consumer demand. This brand typically carries a premium price point and low profit margins. We’ve seen a growth in brands that offer a quality product at a lower price point with higher profit margins and profit dollars. The challenge for distributors is that strong competition has diminished profit margins. Distributors can sell this “value alternative” product at a lower price point and make more money. It is not good for the name brand (unless it offers the “value alternative”), but the distributor and consumer walk away satisfied. Success these days is being had by those who are willing to search beyond the norm. An overall positive buying experience is necessary to keep customers on either the wholesale or retail side. Fit the products you offer to the business model you have. Or change the business model to fit the products you are selling. Consumers have more outlets to source the products they want, and they will gravitate to the companies that satisfy their desires. —Jerry Nuñez President, Innovative Marketing Services, LLC
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Front Floor Liners 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 12920.29 Custom-fit all-terrain floor liners for 2011-2012 Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.		Pop & Lock Corp. Colorado/Canyon Tailgate Lock 800-342-5911 www.popandlock.net PN: Pl1700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Colorado/Canyon/Dmax 2005 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Upgraded Transfer Case Drivetrain 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11650 Alloy USA upgraded drivetrain chain for Jeep vehicles.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Ring and Pinion, 4.10 Ratio for Jeep JK Wrangler by Alloy USA 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: D44410JK Alloy USA ring-and-pinion sets for Jeep JK Wranglers offer strength and restore performance when installing larger tires. Made for Dana 44, 4.10 ratio.
Phoenix Design & Manufacturing LLC Illuma Step 888-789-2550 www.phoenixdesignmfg.com PN: H022102 Factory OE-look lighted running board. Available in stainless steel and powder-coat black. The 6-inch-wide step is safer than regular tube steps. Slip-resistant rubber step area. Stylish molded end caps add streamline appeal. Easy-install mounting brackets.		Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.		Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express 80 Series Wheel 800-776-0767 www.procompusa.com PN: 36 series High-performance alloy wheel with a super-strong split five-spoke design and race-inspired simulated bead lock.
ProRyde Suspension Systems LiftMachine Adjustable Lift/Leveling Kit 888-813-7933 www.proryde.com PN: 74-Series One kit, lift options from 1.5 to 3.0 inches, varying by make and model. Whether it’s bigger tire and wheel combinations you’re after, or an aggressive, lifted look, ProRyde says that its products are your adjustable choice.		Protective Polymers LLC ProSkins 918-764-9502 www.protectivepolymers.com ProSkins were developed for the aftermarket truck accessories world. ProSkins are manufactured using tough, durable, spray-on bed liner material. ProSkins are said to deliver ultimate performance against impact and corrosion for all types of metal or painted surfaces.
ReadyLift Suspension Inc. Off-Road Suspension Upper Control Arms 702-410-2300 www.readylift.com Tab and slot boxed plate arm construction. Teflon-lined 1-inch uniball for the outer pivot. Urethane bushings for the inner pivot. 4340 heat-treated conversion pin.		RBP/Rolling Big Power, a Division of Lexani The Grappler Tow Hook 877-519-9090 www.rollingbigpower.com PN: 990001 The Grappler tow hook/step.

Of course, this news will probably come as no surprise to 2011 SEMA Show attendees. Buyer-registrants expressing an interest in the Truck/SUV/Van segment were up by nearly 20% over the prior year. Meanwhile, the off-roading category attracted even more buyer interest, rising by more than 22%. Among exhibitors, the South Hall saw 277 booths representing the Truck/SUV/Off-Road category—up nearly 5%—with 64 first-time exhibitors contributing to that steady expansion. All in all, the section encompassed 121,660 square feet of rugged innovation exuding high traffic and optimism.

The following pages offer another glimpse at the Show’s Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase entries dedicated to truck, SUV and off-road applications. You’ll also find interviews with key industry executives analyzing the latest trends within these segments. A common thread is an upbeat feeling for overall product sales, especially among those manufacturing off-roading items. Certainly, there are areas of caution. Regulation and a sluggish economy continue to be concerns and some product categories are still clearly outperforming others. However, after several challenging years, even cautiously positive projections offer just the sort of good news the industry has been waiting to hear.

2 Cube It Structure Rear Carrier Bag 937-695-9902 www.2cubeit.com PN: 8962306 2 Cube It innovation for rear carriers. Need added space for comfort? 2 Cube It delivers. Holds shape full or empty.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
ARB 4x4 Accessories Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor 888-427-2872 www.arbusa.com PN: CKMTP12 ARB’s twin-motor compressor was designed as a compact, performance tool that will meet high-volume air inflation requirements and run power tools. 100% duty cycle; 6.16 cfm.		All Sales Manufacturing Inc./AMI Billet Emblem 916-933-0236 www.allsalesmfg.com Replacement grille and body emblems for Ford and Dodge trucks. Several styles and finishes to choose from.
Bolt Locks Toolbox Lock Retrofit Kit 414-247-3333 www.boltlock.com PN: 7022630 Replacement toolbox latch kit with a patented Bolt lock that works with the truck key. Learns the key code the first time you turn it!		Runner Up—Best New Exterior Accessory Product Bestop Inc. TrekStep Side- Mounted Step 800-845-3567 www.bestop.com PN: 75400-15 Bestop’s TrekStep side-mounted, spring-loaded step provides convenient access to toolboxes and gear in the truck bed. Features a 400-pound load capacity with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc. 886-6-2663121 www.bigtime.com.tw PN: BT-431 Designed for OEM and aftermarket; four multi-functions; 20 pcs; 12V/24V LEDs; ABS housing and reflector RYW LEDs.		Carriage Works Inc. Super Duty Mesh Grille 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 3918 2011 Ford Super Duty 3D mesh grille. Provides show-quality customized appearance at an affordable price.
Bushwacker Inc. GMC Extend-A-Fender Flare 503-283-4335 www.bushwacker.com PN: 40952-02 Unique three-in-one design covers multiple applications, offering flexibility for various bumpers while adding style, tire coverage and protection in an easy-to-install application.		Bubba Rope Tree Hugger 877-499-8494 www.bubbarope.com PN: 176000OR The Tree Hugger protects winch lines and trees during off-road vehicle recovery. Made from 100% polyester webbing, breaking strength of 58,000 pounds. Includes a tough, Cordura jacket, reduced eyelets, stitched-in label and duffle bag.
Carriage Works Inc. Hot Rod Muffler 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 50721 Stainless steel hot rod muffler for the custom car, truck or hot rod application. Available in 31/2-inch-diameter body 30 inches long, with inlets/outlets in 2-, 21/4- and 2 1/2-inch diameters.		Bosal USA Inc. Detachable Trailer Hitch 973-240-2227 www.bosalna.com Car manufacturers invest heavily in the design of their cars. A fixed tow hitch upsets the balance and symmetry of the car’s original design. Bosal says its detachable tow bars are the answer, because they can easily be removed when not needed, leaving the line of the car as the designer intended.
Competition 4x4 Dual Shear Tire Carrier Hinge Kit 801-798-8403 www.comp4x4.com PN: DIY012DSB Dual shear tire carrier hinge kit is a complete hinge-kit solution for fabricators and manufacturers. Fully customizable to fit a company’s needs, including laser logo.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
Convert-A-Ball Manufacturing Adjustable Cushioned Fifth-Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter C5G 308-254-7115 www.convert-a-ball.net PN: C5G C5G cushioned adapter adjusts infinitely from 12 to 16 inches, allowing the use of a gooseneck ball to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. Installs in minutes.		Extreme Max Products Gas Can Holder 651-303-1035 www.extrememax.com PN: 5400.344 The gas can holder is designed to hold gas cans, utility jugs and propane tanks securely without the use of bungees, tie-down straps or rope.
Virtual racing chair provides the ultimate experience in gaming/racing chairs. Available with or without racing seat and optional monitor mount. Electronic game components sold separately. Contractors still need toolboxes, liners, steps, racks and bed covers for their pickups, and van sales are coming back. Business has increased in van racks, shelving and interior packages. In addition, more consumers and contractors are towing, which has led to increased sales of hitches, wiring and suspension products. The Ford F-150 V6 with Ecoboost has shown great performance in its ability to tow, and midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma are very popular. Let’s hope Ford brings the UK Ranger to the U.S.! The most significant trends in SUVs include interior and exterior protection along with the increased ability to carry more cargo, with crossovers outselling larger fullsize SUVs. Rooftop boxes and hitch baskets are also hot items. Internet retailers, automobile manufacturers and industry suppliers are all looking for their share of the retail market and continue to take away sales from traditional retailers. Consumers have become extremely well educated by the Internet even before they come to our location, and they often dictate the sale. The greatest opportunity a dealer has is to go out and work the business and not wait for business to come to you. Fleet and export sales help to increase volume. —Charley Holden President, Cap World Inc.		Overall, the market seems to be stabilized. We’ve seen a pretty nice bump in sales for the fourth quarter, and I think consumers are ready to loosen up a little and start spending on accessories again. I am surprised at how well the bed-cover category is doing in the pickup market. I’m anxious to see how well the new Undercover painted program is going to do. If we move even 10% of the units painted that we move in that category overall, it will be a pretty good addition for us. As vehicle technology increases and consumers have more choices in the way they can make purchases, it will be very important for salespeople to be knowledgeable about the products they are selling. When you’re competing with online retailers and the growing number of “me too” brands, dealers who are well educated about their product offerings will have the best opportunity for growth. SEMA offers great professional learning tracks, and PWA has a whole range of product-specific lessons. With consumers armed with as much product information and technology as most main-street retailers, one of the biggest hurdles will be defining and retaining your value proposition in the marketplace. —Donnie Eatherly President and Co-Owner, P&E Distributors
Fastway Trailer Products Zip Coiled Breakaway Cable 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 80-01-2140 Zip replaces the old, frayed breakaway cable. Easy to attach, and its coiled and coated design keeps it from dragging, fraying and stabbing fingers.		Fastway Trailer Products 4-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-4500 The 4-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Fyrlyt Pty. Ltd. Fyrlyt +61 8 8365 4668 www.fyrlyt.com.au PN: 16024 Pronounced “Firelight,” the new Australian driving light company with a single focus: design engineering excellence. Boasting better than HID performance, the Fyrlyt 200 is said to set new benchmarks in high-performance driving light design.		Fox Racing Shox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks 619-768-1800 www.foxracingshox.com The all-new FOX Racing Shox 2.0 performance series shocks deliver race-dominating performance in an affordable, hassle-free, bolt-on package for all popular trucks and SUVs.
Go Rhino! Products/Big Country Truck 4-Inch Oval Hitchstep 888-427-4466 www.gorhino.com PN: 460PS This new, extra-wide step is designed to offer easy access to any truck bed, SUV or roof rack. Compatible with 2-inch receivers, this patented design also offers protection in the event of a collision. The 24-inch-long step comes with an anti-rattle device; no tools required.		Husky Liners Bed Caps 620-221-2268 www.huskyliners.com PN: 97101 A patent-pending, multi-piece, hidden-seam design ships at half the size of other bulky bed rail caps, taking up less warehouse and showroom floor space.
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product EZ Connector Inc. EZS7-02 559-686-5889 www.ezconnector.com PN: EZS7-02 The vehicle/trailer plug has a waterproof O-ring-sealed, self-closing cover; magnetically attached, spring-loaded face-to-face contacts; plug-n-play and self-closing watertight trailer plug storage.		King Shock Technology Raptor Replacement Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: 30001-401 Huge 3.0-inch bolt-on shocks are designed to be tuneable to give Raptors unparalleled damping control. Features 20-position compression adjuster in front, and external bypass adjustment in rear.
Loop EZ Pet Securing System 360-482-4180 www.loop-ez.com PN: PSS7/8 A safe way to secure the user’s pet in a truck bed with the existing holes provided by the manufacturer.		King Shock Technology 3-Inch IBP Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: RS3010-SS-IBP Huge 3.0-inch monotube, internal bypass. Advanced position and velocity-sensitive valving. Choice of coil-over or smoothie. Race-proven bypass technology in a compact, durable package.
Poly Performance Manufacturing Jeep Ball Joints 805-242-0397 www.synergysuspension.com PN: PPM-8009-12-01 Designed to replace the factory ball joint to help avoid failure on lifted Jeeps/trucks/buggies with large off-road tires. Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance.		Fastway Trailer Products 6-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-6500 The 6-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Quick-Release Mirrors for Jeep 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11025.1 Quick-release mirrors for 1997-2012 Jeep Wranglers.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11400 Slip yoke eliminator kit for NP231 transfer cases by Alloy USA.
The Jeep market is extraordinarily hot and has actually seen growth in many areas. We’re seeing more and more enthusiasts flock to new Wranglers from other brands. Likewise, many enthusiasts are coming to Jeep from rock-crawl or sand buggies because they serve more than one function: You can hit hardcore trails in your four-door JK with the whole family over the weekend and then commute to work in it during the week. For ‘07-present Wranglers, the most popular modifications are a simple lift with coil spacers and aftermarket shocks to allow larger 33- to 35-inch tires on aftermarket wheels. A large number of enthusiasts also step up to short- or long-arm suspension systems to clear 35- to 40-inch tires. Further enhancements include front winch bumpers, winches, rocker armor and rear tire carrier bumpers. Those wishing to retain their 3.8L JK engines clamor for upgrades such as cold-air intakes, headers, after-cat exhaust systems and electronic programmers to bolster the power output and control or bypass factory functions like electronic sway-bar actuation, locker engagement, turning off the ESP and other features. Overall, we’re seeing lighter, smarter products that deliver protection off-road without a daily-driving weight penalty at the pump. —Christian Hazel Editor, Jp Magazine		One area of growth has been what I call the “value alternative.” In many cases, there is a dominant brand within a given category that typically has been around for a long time and has cultivated strong consumer demand. This brand typically carries a premium price point and low profit margins. We’ve seen a growth in brands that offer a quality product at a lower price point with higher profit margins and profit dollars. The challenge for distributors is that strong competition has diminished profit margins. Distributors can sell this “value alternative” product at a lower price point and make more money. It is not good for the name brand (unless it offers the “value alternative”), but the distributor and consumer walk away satisfied. Success these days is being had by those who are willing to search beyond the norm. An overall positive buying experience is necessary to keep customers on either the wholesale or retail side. Fit the products you offer to the business model you have. Or change the business model to fit the products you are selling. Consumers have more outlets to source the products they want, and they will gravitate to the companies that satisfy their desires. —Jerry Nuñez President, Innovative Marketing Services, LLC
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Front Floor Liners 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 12920.29 Custom-fit all-terrain floor liners for 2011-2012 Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.		Pop & Lock Corp. Colorado/Canyon Tailgate Lock 800-342-5911 www.popandlock.net PN: Pl1700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Colorado/Canyon/Dmax 2005 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Upgraded Transfer Case Drivetrain 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11650 Alloy USA upgraded drivetrain chain for Jeep vehicles.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Ring and Pinion, 4.10 Ratio for Jeep JK Wrangler by Alloy USA 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: D44410JK Alloy USA ring-and-pinion sets for Jeep JK Wranglers offer strength and restore performance when installing larger tires. Made for Dana 44, 4.10 ratio.
Phoenix Design & Manufacturing LLC Illuma Step 888-789-2550 www.phoenixdesignmfg.com PN: H022102 Factory OE-look lighted running board. Available in stainless steel and powder-coat black. The 6-inch-wide step is safer than regular tube steps. Slip-resistant rubber step area. Stylish molded end caps add streamline appeal. Easy-install mounting brackets.		Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.		Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express 80 Series Wheel 800-776-0767 www.procompusa.com PN: 36 series High-performance alloy wheel with a super-strong split five-spoke design and race-inspired simulated bead lock.
ProRyde Suspension Systems LiftMachine Adjustable Lift/Leveling Kit 888-813-7933 www.proryde.com PN: 74-Series One kit, lift options from 1.5 to 3.0 inches, varying by make and model. Whether it’s bigger tire and wheel combinations you’re after, or an aggressive, lifted look, ProRyde says that its products are your adjustable choice.		Protective Polymers LLC ProSkins 918-764-9502 www.protectivepolymers.com ProSkins were developed for the aftermarket truck accessories world. ProSkins are manufactured using tough, durable, spray-on bed liner material. ProSkins are said to deliver ultimate performance against impact and corrosion for all types of metal or painted surfaces.
ReadyLift Suspension Inc. Off-Road Suspension Upper Control Arms 702-410-2300 www.readylift.com Tab and slot boxed plate arm construction. Teflon-lined 1-inch uniball for the outer pivot. Urethane bushings for the inner pivot. 4340 heat-treated conversion pin.		RBP/Rolling Big Power, a Division of Lexani The Grappler Tow Hook 877-519-9090 www.rollingbigpower.com PN: 990001 The Grappler tow hook/step.

Of course, this news will probably come as no surprise to 2011 SEMA Show attendees. Buyer-registrants expressing an interest in the Truck/SUV/Van segment were up by nearly 20% over the prior year. Meanwhile, the off-roading category attracted even more buyer interest, rising by more than 22%. Among exhibitors, the South Hall saw 277 booths representing the Truck/SUV/Off-Road category—up nearly 5%—with 64 first-time exhibitors contributing to that steady expansion. All in all, the section encompassed 121,660 square feet of rugged innovation exuding high traffic and optimism.

The following pages offer another glimpse at the Show’s Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase entries dedicated to truck, SUV and off-road applications. You’ll also find interviews with key industry executives analyzing the latest trends within these segments. A common thread is an upbeat feeling for overall product sales, especially among those manufacturing off-roading items. Certainly, there are areas of caution. Regulation and a sluggish economy continue to be concerns and some product categories are still clearly outperforming others. However, after several challenging years, even cautiously positive projections offer just the sort of good news the industry has been waiting to hear.

2 Cube It Structure Rear Carrier Bag 937-695-9902 www.2cubeit.com PN: 8962306 2 Cube It innovation for rear carriers. Need added space for comfort? 2 Cube It delivers. Holds shape full or empty.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
ARB 4x4 Accessories Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor 888-427-2872 www.arbusa.com PN: CKMTP12 ARB’s twin-motor compressor was designed as a compact, performance tool that will meet high-volume air inflation requirements and run power tools. 100% duty cycle; 6.16 cfm.		All Sales Manufacturing Inc./AMI Billet Emblem 916-933-0236 www.allsalesmfg.com Replacement grille and body emblems for Ford and Dodge trucks. Several styles and finishes to choose from.
Bolt Locks Toolbox Lock Retrofit Kit 414-247-3333 www.boltlock.com PN: 7022630 Replacement toolbox latch kit with a patented Bolt lock that works with the truck key. Learns the key code the first time you turn it!		Runner Up—Best New Exterior Accessory Product Bestop Inc. TrekStep Side- Mounted Step 800-845-3567 www.bestop.com PN: 75400-15 Bestop’s TrekStep side-mounted, spring-loaded step provides convenient access to toolboxes and gear in the truck bed. Features a 400-pound load capacity with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc. 886-6-2663121 www.bigtime.com.tw PN: BT-431 Designed for OEM and aftermarket; four multi-functions; 20 pcs; 12V/24V LEDs; ABS housing and reflector RYW LEDs.		Carriage Works Inc. Super Duty Mesh Grille 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 3918 2011 Ford Super Duty 3D mesh grille. Provides show-quality customized appearance at an affordable price.
Bushwacker Inc. GMC Extend-A-Fender Flare 503-283-4335 www.bushwacker.com PN: 40952-02 Unique three-in-one design covers multiple applications, offering flexibility for various bumpers while adding style, tire coverage and protection in an easy-to-install application.		Bubba Rope Tree Hugger 877-499-8494 www.bubbarope.com PN: 176000OR The Tree Hugger protects winch lines and trees during off-road vehicle recovery. Made from 100% polyester webbing, breaking strength of 58,000 pounds. Includes a tough, Cordura jacket, reduced eyelets, stitched-in label and duffle bag.
Carriage Works Inc. Hot Rod Muffler 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 50721 Stainless steel hot rod muffler for the custom car, truck or hot rod application. Available in 31/2-inch-diameter body 30 inches long, with inlets/outlets in 2-, 21/4- and 2 1/2-inch diameters.		Bosal USA Inc. Detachable Trailer Hitch 973-240-2227 www.bosalna.com Car manufacturers invest heavily in the design of their cars. A fixed tow hitch upsets the balance and symmetry of the car’s original design. Bosal says its detachable tow bars are the answer, because they can easily be removed when not needed, leaving the line of the car as the designer intended.
Competition 4x4 Dual Shear Tire Carrier Hinge Kit 801-798-8403 www.comp4x4.com PN: DIY012DSB Dual shear tire carrier hinge kit is a complete hinge-kit solution for fabricators and manufacturers. Fully customizable to fit a company’s needs, including laser logo.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
Convert-A-Ball Manufacturing Adjustable Cushioned Fifth-Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter C5G 308-254-7115 www.convert-a-ball.net PN: C5G C5G cushioned adapter adjusts infinitely from 12 to 16 inches, allowing the use of a gooseneck ball to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. Installs in minutes.		Extreme Max Products Gas Can Holder 651-303-1035 www.extrememax.com PN: 5400.344 The gas can holder is designed to hold gas cans, utility jugs and propane tanks securely without the use of bungees, tie-down straps or rope.
Virtual racing chair provides the ultimate experience in gaming/racing chairs. Available with or without racing seat and optional monitor mount. Electronic game components sold separately. Contractors still need toolboxes, liners, steps, racks and bed covers for their pickups, and van sales are coming back. Business has increased in van racks, shelving and interior packages. In addition, more consumers and contractors are towing, which has led to increased sales of hitches, wiring and suspension products. The Ford F-150 V6 with Ecoboost has shown great performance in its ability to tow, and midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma are very popular. Let’s hope Ford brings the UK Ranger to the U.S.! The most significant trends in SUVs include interior and exterior protection along with the increased ability to carry more cargo, with crossovers outselling larger fullsize SUVs. Rooftop boxes and hitch baskets are also hot items. Internet retailers, automobile manufacturers and industry suppliers are all looking for their share of the retail market and continue to take away sales from traditional retailers. Consumers have become extremely well educated by the Internet even before they come to our location, and they often dictate the sale. The greatest opportunity a dealer has is to go out and work the business and not wait for business to come to you. Fleet and export sales help to increase volume. —Charley Holden President, Cap World Inc.		Overall, the market seems to be stabilized. We’ve seen a pretty nice bump in sales for the fourth quarter, and I think consumers are ready to loosen up a little and start spending on accessories again. I am surprised at how well the bed-cover category is doing in the pickup market. I’m anxious to see how well the new Undercover painted program is going to do. If we move even 10% of the units painted that we move in that category overall, it will be a pretty good addition for us. As vehicle technology increases and consumers have more choices in the way they can make purchases, it will be very important for salespeople to be knowledgeable about the products they are selling. When you’re competing with online retailers and the growing number of “me too” brands, dealers who are well educated about their product offerings will have the best opportunity for growth. SEMA offers great professional learning tracks, and PWA has a whole range of product-specific lessons. With consumers armed with as much product information and technology as most main-street retailers, one of the biggest hurdles will be defining and retaining your value proposition in the marketplace. —Donnie Eatherly President and Co-Owner, P&E Distributors
Fastway Trailer Products Zip Coiled Breakaway Cable 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 80-01-2140 Zip replaces the old, frayed breakaway cable. Easy to attach, and its coiled and coated design keeps it from dragging, fraying and stabbing fingers.		Fastway Trailer Products 4-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-4500 The 4-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Fyrlyt Pty. Ltd. Fyrlyt +61 8 8365 4668 www.fyrlyt.com.au PN: 16024 Pronounced “Firelight,” the new Australian driving light company with a single focus: design engineering excellence. Boasting better than HID performance, the Fyrlyt 200 is said to set new benchmarks in high-performance driving light design.		Fox Racing Shox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks 619-768-1800 www.foxracingshox.com The all-new FOX Racing Shox 2.0 performance series shocks deliver race-dominating performance in an affordable, hassle-free, bolt-on package for all popular trucks and SUVs.
Go Rhino! Products/Big Country Truck 4-Inch Oval Hitchstep 888-427-4466 www.gorhino.com PN: 460PS This new, extra-wide step is designed to offer easy access to any truck bed, SUV or roof rack. Compatible with 2-inch receivers, this patented design also offers protection in the event of a collision. The 24-inch-long step comes with an anti-rattle device; no tools required.		Husky Liners Bed Caps 620-221-2268 www.huskyliners.com PN: 97101 A patent-pending, multi-piece, hidden-seam design ships at half the size of other bulky bed rail caps, taking up less warehouse and showroom floor space.
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product EZ Connector Inc. EZS7-02 559-686-5889 www.ezconnector.com PN: EZS7-02 The vehicle/trailer plug has a waterproof O-ring-sealed, self-closing cover; magnetically attached, spring-loaded face-to-face contacts; plug-n-play and self-closing watertight trailer plug storage.		King Shock Technology Raptor Replacement Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: 30001-401 Huge 3.0-inch bolt-on shocks are designed to be tuneable to give Raptors unparalleled damping control. Features 20-position compression adjuster in front, and external bypass adjustment in rear.
Loop EZ Pet Securing System 360-482-4180 www.loop-ez.com PN: PSS7/8 A safe way to secure the user’s pet in a truck bed with the existing holes provided by the manufacturer.		King Shock Technology 3-Inch IBP Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: RS3010-SS-IBP Huge 3.0-inch monotube, internal bypass. Advanced position and velocity-sensitive valving. Choice of coil-over or smoothie. Race-proven bypass technology in a compact, durable package.
Poly Performance Manufacturing Jeep Ball Joints 805-242-0397 www.synergysuspension.com PN: PPM-8009-12-01 Designed to replace the factory ball joint to help avoid failure on lifted Jeeps/trucks/buggies with large off-road tires. Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance.		Fastway Trailer Products 6-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-6500 The 6-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Quick-Release Mirrors for Jeep 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11025.1 Quick-release mirrors for 1997-2012 Jeep Wranglers.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11400 Slip yoke eliminator kit for NP231 transfer cases by Alloy USA.
The Jeep market is extraordinarily hot and has actually seen growth in many areas. We’re seeing more and more enthusiasts flock to new Wranglers from other brands. Likewise, many enthusiasts are coming to Jeep from rock-crawl or sand buggies because they serve more than one function: You can hit hardcore trails in your four-door JK with the whole family over the weekend and then commute to work in it during the week. For ‘07-present Wranglers, the most popular modifications are a simple lift with coil spacers and aftermarket shocks to allow larger 33- to 35-inch tires on aftermarket wheels. A large number of enthusiasts also step up to short- or long-arm suspension systems to clear 35- to 40-inch tires. Further enhancements include front winch bumpers, winches, rocker armor and rear tire carrier bumpers. Those wishing to retain their 3.8L JK engines clamor for upgrades such as cold-air intakes, headers, after-cat exhaust systems and electronic programmers to bolster the power output and control or bypass factory functions like electronic sway-bar actuation, locker engagement, turning off the ESP and other features. Overall, we’re seeing lighter, smarter products that deliver protection off-road without a daily-driving weight penalty at the pump. —Christian Hazel Editor, Jp Magazine		One area of growth has been what I call the “value alternative.” In many cases, there is a dominant brand within a given category that typically has been around for a long time and has cultivated strong consumer demand. This brand typically carries a premium price point and low profit margins. We’ve seen a growth in brands that offer a quality product at a lower price point with higher profit margins and profit dollars. The challenge for distributors is that strong competition has diminished profit margins. Distributors can sell this “value alternative” product at a lower price point and make more money. It is not good for the name brand (unless it offers the “value alternative”), but the distributor and consumer walk away satisfied. Success these days is being had by those who are willing to search beyond the norm. An overall positive buying experience is necessary to keep customers on either the wholesale or retail side. Fit the products you offer to the business model you have. Or change the business model to fit the products you are selling. Consumers have more outlets to source the products they want, and they will gravitate to the companies that satisfy their desires. —Jerry Nuñez President, Innovative Marketing Services, LLC
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Front Floor Liners 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 12920.29 Custom-fit all-terrain floor liners for 2011-2012 Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.		Pop & Lock Corp. Colorado/Canyon Tailgate Lock 800-342-5911 www.popandlock.net PN: Pl1700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Colorado/Canyon/Dmax 2005 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Upgraded Transfer Case Drivetrain 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11650 Alloy USA upgraded drivetrain chain for Jeep vehicles.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Ring and Pinion, 4.10 Ratio for Jeep JK Wrangler by Alloy USA 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: D44410JK Alloy USA ring-and-pinion sets for Jeep JK Wranglers offer strength and restore performance when installing larger tires. Made for Dana 44, 4.10 ratio.
Phoenix Design & Manufacturing LLC Illuma Step 888-789-2550 www.phoenixdesignmfg.com PN: H022102 Factory OE-look lighted running board. Available in stainless steel and powder-coat black. The 6-inch-wide step is safer than regular tube steps. Slip-resistant rubber step area. Stylish molded end caps add streamline appeal. Easy-install mounting brackets.		Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.		Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express 80 Series Wheel 800-776-0767 www.procompusa.com PN: 36 series High-performance alloy wheel with a super-strong split five-spoke design and race-inspired simulated bead lock.
ProRyde Suspension Systems LiftMachine Adjustable Lift/Leveling Kit 888-813-7933 www.proryde.com PN: 74-Series One kit, lift options from 1.5 to 3.0 inches, varying by make and model. Whether it’s bigger tire and wheel combinations you’re after, or an aggressive, lifted look, ProRyde says that its products are your adjustable choice.		Protective Polymers LLC ProSkins 918-764-9502 www.protectivepolymers.com ProSkins were developed for the aftermarket truck accessories world. ProSkins are manufactured using tough, durable, spray-on bed liner material. ProSkins are said to deliver ultimate performance against impact and corrosion for all types of metal or painted surfaces.
ReadyLift Suspension Inc. Off-Road Suspension Upper Control Arms 702-410-2300 www.readylift.com Tab and slot boxed plate arm construction. Teflon-lined 1-inch uniball for the outer pivot. Urethane bushings for the inner pivot. 4340 heat-treated conversion pin.		RBP/Rolling Big Power, a Division of Lexani The Grappler Tow Hook 877-519-9090 www.rollingbigpower.com PN: 990001 The Grappler tow hook/step.

Of course, this news will probably come as no surprise to 2011 SEMA Show attendees. Buyer-registrants expressing an interest in the Truck/SUV/Van segment were up by nearly 20% over the prior year. Meanwhile, the off-roading category attracted even more buyer interest, rising by more than 22%. Among exhibitors, the South Hall saw 277 booths representing the Truck/SUV/Off-Road category—up nearly 5%—with 64 first-time exhibitors contributing to that steady expansion. All in all, the section encompassed 121,660 square feet of rugged innovation exuding high traffic and optimism.

The following pages offer another glimpse at the Show’s Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase entries dedicated to truck, SUV and off-road applications. You’ll also find interviews with key industry executives analyzing the latest trends within these segments. A common thread is an upbeat feeling for overall product sales, especially among those manufacturing off-roading items. Certainly, there are areas of caution. Regulation and a sluggish economy continue to be concerns and some product categories are still clearly outperforming others. However, after several challenging years, even cautiously positive projections offer just the sort of good news the industry has been waiting to hear.

2 Cube It Structure Rear Carrier Bag 937-695-9902 www.2cubeit.com PN: 8962306 2 Cube It innovation for rear carriers. Need added space for comfort? 2 Cube It delivers. Holds shape full or empty.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
ARB 4x4 Accessories Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor 888-427-2872 www.arbusa.com PN: CKMTP12 ARB’s twin-motor compressor was designed as a compact, performance tool that will meet high-volume air inflation requirements and run power tools. 100% duty cycle; 6.16 cfm.		All Sales Manufacturing Inc./AMI Billet Emblem 916-933-0236 www.allsalesmfg.com Replacement grille and body emblems for Ford and Dodge trucks. Several styles and finishes to choose from.
Bolt Locks Toolbox Lock Retrofit Kit 414-247-3333 www.boltlock.com PN: 7022630 Replacement toolbox latch kit with a patented Bolt lock that works with the truck key. Learns the key code the first time you turn it!		Runner Up—Best New Exterior Accessory Product Bestop Inc. TrekStep Side- Mounted Step 800-845-3567 www.bestop.com PN: 75400-15 Bestop’s TrekStep side-mounted, spring-loaded step provides convenient access to toolboxes and gear in the truck bed. Features a 400-pound load capacity with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc. 886-6-2663121 www.bigtime.com.tw PN: BT-431 Designed for OEM and aftermarket; four multi-functions; 20 pcs; 12V/24V LEDs; ABS housing and reflector RYW LEDs.		Carriage Works Inc. Super Duty Mesh Grille 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 3918 2011 Ford Super Duty 3D mesh grille. Provides show-quality customized appearance at an affordable price.
Bushwacker Inc. GMC Extend-A-Fender Flare 503-283-4335 www.bushwacker.com PN: 40952-02 Unique three-in-one design covers multiple applications, offering flexibility for various bumpers while adding style, tire coverage and protection in an easy-to-install application.		Bubba Rope Tree Hugger 877-499-8494 www.bubbarope.com PN: 176000OR The Tree Hugger protects winch lines and trees during off-road vehicle recovery. Made from 100% polyester webbing, breaking strength of 58,000 pounds. Includes a tough, Cordura jacket, reduced eyelets, stitched-in label and duffle bag.
Carriage Works Inc. Hot Rod Muffler 816-966-1405 www.carriageworksinc.com PN: 50721 Stainless steel hot rod muffler for the custom car, truck or hot rod application. Available in 31/2-inch-diameter body 30 inches long, with inlets/outlets in 2-, 21/4- and 2 1/2-inch diameters.		Bosal USA Inc. Detachable Trailer Hitch 973-240-2227 www.bosalna.com Car manufacturers invest heavily in the design of their cars. A fixed tow hitch upsets the balance and symmetry of the car’s original design. Bosal says its detachable tow bars are the answer, because they can easily be removed when not needed, leaving the line of the car as the designer intended.
Competition 4x4 Dual Shear Tire Carrier Hinge Kit 801-798-8403 www.comp4x4.com PN: DIY012DSB Dual shear tire carrier hinge kit is a complete hinge-kit solution for fabricators and manufacturers. Fully customizable to fit a company’s needs, including laser logo.		AMP Research Bedxtender HD 800-309-6823 www.amp-research.com PN: 74501-00A The all-new Bedxtender HD by AMP Research.
Convert-A-Ball Manufacturing Adjustable Cushioned Fifth-Wheel to Gooseneck Adapter C5G 308-254-7115 www.convert-a-ball.net PN: C5G C5G cushioned adapter adjusts infinitely from 12 to 16 inches, allowing the use of a gooseneck ball to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. Installs in minutes.		Extreme Max Products Gas Can Holder 651-303-1035 www.extrememax.com PN: 5400.344 The gas can holder is designed to hold gas cans, utility jugs and propane tanks securely without the use of bungees, tie-down straps or rope.
Virtual racing chair provides the ultimate experience in gaming/racing chairs. Available with or without racing seat and optional monitor mount. Electronic game components sold separately. Contractors still need toolboxes, liners, steps, racks and bed covers for their pickups, and van sales are coming back. Business has increased in van racks, shelving and interior packages. In addition, more consumers and contractors are towing, which has led to increased sales of hitches, wiring and suspension products. The Ford F-150 V6 with Ecoboost has shown great performance in its ability to tow, and midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma are very popular. Let’s hope Ford brings the UK Ranger to the U.S.! The most significant trends in SUVs include interior and exterior protection along with the increased ability to carry more cargo, with crossovers outselling larger fullsize SUVs. Rooftop boxes and hitch baskets are also hot items. Internet retailers, automobile manufacturers and industry suppliers are all looking for their share of the retail market and continue to take away sales from traditional retailers. Consumers have become extremely well educated by the Internet even before they come to our location, and they often dictate the sale. The greatest opportunity a dealer has is to go out and work the business and not wait for business to come to you. Fleet and export sales help to increase volume. —Charley Holden President, Cap World Inc.		Overall, the market seems to be stabilized. We’ve seen a pretty nice bump in sales for the fourth quarter, and I think consumers are ready to loosen up a little and start spending on accessories again. I am surprised at how well the bed-cover category is doing in the pickup market. I’m anxious to see how well the new Undercover painted program is going to do. If we move even 10% of the units painted that we move in that category overall, it will be a pretty good addition for us. As vehicle technology increases and consumers have more choices in the way they can make purchases, it will be very important for salespeople to be knowledgeable about the products they are selling. When you’re competing with online retailers and the growing number of “me too” brands, dealers who are well educated about their product offerings will have the best opportunity for growth. SEMA offers great professional learning tracks, and PWA has a whole range of product-specific lessons. With consumers armed with as much product information and technology as most main-street retailers, one of the biggest hurdles will be defining and retaining your value proposition in the marketplace. —Donnie Eatherly President and Co-Owner, P&E Distributors
Fastway Trailer Products Zip Coiled Breakaway Cable 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 80-01-2140 Zip replaces the old, frayed breakaway cable. Easy to attach, and its coiled and coated design keeps it from dragging, fraying and stabbing fingers.		Fastway Trailer Products 4-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-4500 The 4-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Fyrlyt Pty. Ltd. Fyrlyt +61 8 8365 4668 www.fyrlyt.com.au PN: 16024 Pronounced “Firelight,” the new Australian driving light company with a single focus: design engineering excellence. Boasting better than HID performance, the Fyrlyt 200 is said to set new benchmarks in high-performance driving light design.		Fox Racing Shox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks 619-768-1800 www.foxracingshox.com The all-new FOX Racing Shox 2.0 performance series shocks deliver race-dominating performance in an affordable, hassle-free, bolt-on package for all popular trucks and SUVs.
Go Rhino! Products/Big Country Truck 4-Inch Oval Hitchstep 888-427-4466 www.gorhino.com PN: 460PS This new, extra-wide step is designed to offer easy access to any truck bed, SUV or roof rack. Compatible with 2-inch receivers, this patented design also offers protection in the event of a collision. The 24-inch-long step comes with an anti-rattle device; no tools required.		Husky Liners Bed Caps 620-221-2268 www.huskyliners.com PN: 97101 A patent-pending, multi-piece, hidden-seam design ships at half the size of other bulky bed rail caps, taking up less warehouse and showroom floor space.
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product EZ Connector Inc. EZS7-02 559-686-5889 www.ezconnector.com PN: EZS7-02 The vehicle/trailer plug has a waterproof O-ring-sealed, self-closing cover; magnetically attached, spring-loaded face-to-face contacts; plug-n-play and self-closing watertight trailer plug storage.		King Shock Technology Raptor Replacement Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: 30001-401 Huge 3.0-inch bolt-on shocks are designed to be tuneable to give Raptors unparalleled damping control. Features 20-position compression adjuster in front, and external bypass adjustment in rear.
Loop EZ Pet Securing System 360-482-4180 www.loop-ez.com PN: PSS7/8 A safe way to secure the user’s pet in a truck bed with the existing holes provided by the manufacturer.		King Shock Technology 3-Inch IBP Shocks 714-530-8701 www.kingshocks.com PN: RS3010-SS-IBP Huge 3.0-inch monotube, internal bypass. Advanced position and velocity-sensitive valving. Choice of coil-over or smoothie. Race-proven bypass technology in a compact, durable package.
Poly Performance Manufacturing Jeep Ball Joints 805-242-0397 www.synergysuspension.com PN: PPM-8009-12-01 Designed to replace the factory ball joint to help avoid failure on lifted Jeeps/trucks/buggies with large off-road tires. Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance.		Fastway Trailer Products 6-Inch Flip Automatic Jack Foot 877-523-9103 www.fastwaytrailer.com PN: 88-00-6500 The 6-inch Flip automatically tucks up and drops down as the user cranks the trailer jack. Eliminates wood block hassles. Engineered specifically for lower trailers.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Quick-Release Mirrors for Jeep 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11025.1 Quick-release mirrors for 1997-2012 Jeep Wranglers.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Slip Yoke Eliminator Kit 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11400 Slip yoke eliminator kit for NP231 transfer cases by Alloy USA.
The Jeep market is extraordinarily hot and has actually seen growth in many areas. We’re seeing more and more enthusiasts flock to new Wranglers from other brands. Likewise, many enthusiasts are coming to Jeep from rock-crawl or sand buggies because they serve more than one function: You can hit hardcore trails in your four-door JK with the whole family over the weekend and then commute to work in it during the week. For ‘07-present Wranglers, the most popular modifications are a simple lift with coil spacers and aftermarket shocks to allow larger 33- to 35-inch tires on aftermarket wheels. A large number of enthusiasts also step up to short- or long-arm suspension systems to clear 35- to 40-inch tires. Further enhancements include front winch bumpers, winches, rocker armor and rear tire carrier bumpers. Those wishing to retain their 3.8L JK engines clamor for upgrades such as cold-air intakes, headers, after-cat exhaust systems and electronic programmers to bolster the power output and control or bypass factory functions like electronic sway-bar actuation, locker engagement, turning off the ESP and other features. Overall, we’re seeing lighter, smarter products that deliver protection off-road without a daily-driving weight penalty at the pump. —Christian Hazel Editor, Jp Magazine		One area of growth has been what I call the “value alternative.” In many cases, there is a dominant brand within a given category that typically has been around for a long time and has cultivated strong consumer demand. This brand typically carries a premium price point and low profit margins. We’ve seen a growth in brands that offer a quality product at a lower price point with higher profit margins and profit dollars. The challenge for distributors is that strong competition has diminished profit margins. Distributors can sell this “value alternative” product at a lower price point and make more money. It is not good for the name brand (unless it offers the “value alternative”), but the distributor and consumer walk away satisfied. Success these days is being had by those who are willing to search beyond the norm. An overall positive buying experience is necessary to keep customers on either the wholesale or retail side. Fit the products you offer to the business model you have. Or change the business model to fit the products you are selling. Consumers have more outlets to source the products they want, and they will gravitate to the companies that satisfy their desires. —Jerry Nuñez President, Innovative Marketing Services, LLC
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Front Floor Liners 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 12920.29 Custom-fit all-terrain floor liners for 2011-2012 Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.		Pop & Lock Corp. Colorado/Canyon Tailgate Lock 800-342-5911 www.popandlock.net PN: Pl1700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Colorado/Canyon/Dmax 2005 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Upgraded Transfer Case Drivetrain 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: 11650 Alloy USA upgraded drivetrain chain for Jeep vehicles.		Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge Ring and Pinion, 4.10 Ratio for Jeep JK Wrangler by Alloy USA 770-614-6101 www.omix-ada.com PN: D44410JK Alloy USA ring-and-pinion sets for Jeep JK Wranglers offer strength and restore performance when installing larger tires. Made for Dana 44, 4.10 ratio.
Phoenix Design & Manufacturing LLC Illuma Step 888-789-2550 www.phoenixdesignmfg.com PN: H022102 Factory OE-look lighted running board. Available in stainless steel and powder-coat black. The 6-inch-wide step is safer than regular tube steps. Slip-resistant rubber step area. Stylish molded end caps add streamline appeal. Easy-install mounting brackets.		Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.
Pop & Lock Corp. Mitsubishi Tailgate Lock 905-734-7111 www.popandlock.net PN: PL3700 New Pop & Lock tailgate lock available in chrome or black. Fits Mitsubishi L200, 2006 and up. Replaces complete factory handle and bezel assembly.		Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express 80 Series Wheel 800-776-0767 www.procompusa.com PN: 36 series High-performance alloy wheel with a super-strong split five-spoke design and race-inspired simulated bead lock.
ProRyde Suspension Systems LiftMachine Adjustable Lift/Leveling Kit 888-813-7933 www.proryde.com PN: 74-Series One kit, lift options from 1.5 to 3.0 inches, varying by make and model. Whether it’s bigger tire and wheel combinations you’re after, or an aggressive, lifted look, ProRyde says that its products are your adjustable choice.		Protective Polymers LLC ProSkins 918-764-9502 www.protectivepolymers.com ProSkins were developed for the aftermarket truck accessories world. ProSkins are manufactured using tough, durable, spray-on bed liner material. ProSkins are said to deliver ultimate performance against impact and corrosion for all types of metal or painted surfaces.
ReadyLift Suspension Inc. Off-Road Suspension Upper Control Arms 702-410-2300 www.readylift.com Tab and slot boxed plate arm construction. Teflon-lined 1-inch uniball for the outer pivot. Urethane bushings for the inner pivot. 4340 heat-treated conversion pin.		RBP/Rolling Big Power, a Division of Lexani The Grappler Tow Hook 877-519-9090 www.rollingbigpower.com PN: 990001 The Grappler tow hook/step.

McLeod Racing LLC hired Bob Scheid as director of business development, which is a newly formed position at the company. McLeod reported that Scheid has worked in the automotive aftermarket for more than 20 years, holding positions that ranged from the parts counters of Nationwise Auto Parts to president of Fidanza Engineering and director of business development for Digital Performance Inc. McLeod Racing, Placentia, CA; 714-630-2764.

RideTech announced that the winner of its Streetrod Design Contest was Gary Drayton, who received a $500 cash prize. There were 60 designs entered for the contest, and more than 1,000 votes were registered. The company also stated that features of Drayton’s design were incorporated into the vinyl wrap that the company developed for the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in March. RideTech, Jasper, IN; 812-482-2932.

According to a release by Lucas Oil Products, the 26th annual Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals Presented by General Tire will air April 14, at 3:00 p.m. (CST). The broadcast will be carried by CBS and its nearly 200 affiliates throughout the United States. The Chili Bowl Nationals were originally set to air on the CBS Sports Network in January. The forthcoming broadcast marks the first time that the Chili Bowl will be aired on one of the Big Three television networks. Lucas Oil Products, Corona, CA; 951-270-0154.

Through a new agreement and continued sponsorship of Brenton Productions’ “Two Guys Garage” television show, Federated will sponsor two regular segments called “Tech Talk by Federated Auto Parts” and “Brake Room.” The segments will be featured on every episode of “Two Guys Garage” beginning April 28 and will run through November 2012. The focus of “Tech Talk” will be on education and training, with emphasis on parts and solutions provided by the automotive aftermarket. “Break Room” segments will highlight the innovative and high-quality parts supplied by Federated’s manufacturing partners. Brenton Productions, Swansea, MA; 800-572-7798.

Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc. announced that it redesigned its website, www.vischeck.net, to include easier navigation and more information on the company’s products. The website is now linked to the new online shopping site, www.store.vispolish.com, where supplies, parts and machines can be ordered. Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc., Orlando, FL; 407-206-3615.

Be Cool Inc. founder Roger Rosebush announced that the company has been sold to Aerospace America of Bay City, which will now handle Michigan-based product manufacturing. Rosebush also said that the company will increase services and product development in the years ahead, and he will remain as a consultant to help ensure a smooth transition. Be Cool Inc., Essexville, MI; 989-895-9699.

The Subaru Impreza received the 2012 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Compact Car during the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Subaru set sales records in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% compared to the previous year, the company reported. The Impreza is equipped with a 148-horsepower 2.0L Boxer engine and is available with the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or an enhanced Lineartronic CVT.

	WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012.

A WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012. The bike made its debut January 27 at the Pittsburgh Autorama, and the remaining stops include the WyoTech-Sacramento Car Show, May 5, Sacramento, California; the WyoTech/NSRA Car Show, May 19, Laramie, Wyoming; the Ford/AAA Students Skills Finals, June 10–12, Dearborn, Michigan; Thunder in the Valley, June 21–22, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; the SkillsUSA Competition, June 23–27, Kansas City, Missouri; and the California State Fair, July 12–15, Sacramento. More information on the bike and tour are available at www.wyochopper.com. WyoTech, Laramie, WY; 307-742-3776.

Perris Auto Speedway was named Small Business of the Year by Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President Grant Bennett presented the award to promoter Don Kazarian. The 1/2-mile clay oval opened its 17th season with the Sokola Shootout, featuring Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series, California Lightning Sprint cars and the PAS Senior Sprints.

Ohio Technical College announced that it is using the two leading forms of social media—Facebook and Twitter—to communicate directly with car enthusiasts and prospective students while highlighting the curriculum. The Ohio Technical College Facebook page features school announcements, photos of student projects, videos and links to industry stories. The school’s Twitter page includes details on real-world training, links and photos from inside the classroom and information about upcoming events.

Surf City Garage and Hopkins Manufacturing entered into a marketing partnership through which Hopkins will design, market and distribute enthusiast-grade vehicle cleaning tools and accessories that complement the Surf City Garage car care product line. All tools will bear the Surf Garage brand name. The enthusiast-grade detailing tools will be rolled out in 2012, according to the companies. Surf City Garage, Huntington Beach, CA; 714-894-1707. Hopkins Manufacturing, Emporia, KS.

Motovicity Distribution hired Susan Ozimek as vice president of purchasing and category management. Ozimek was recently chief operating officer for Lighting Supply Co., where Motovicity said her strategic direction and systems and technology upgrades doubled sales and profit revenues. According to Motovicity, Ozimek will bring focus to vendor relations and product management to support the company’s business and customer-satisfaction goals. Motovicity Distribution, Madison Heights, MI; 888-SPEED-16.

The International Drag Racing Hall of Fame, based at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Florida, announced its 2012 class of honorees. They are Bob Brandt, John Mazmanian, Don Moody, Ray Motes, Mike Kuhl, Carl Olson and Ed Schartman. In addition, popular West Coast race promoter/marketer Bill Doner was honored as the recipient of the 2012 Founder’s Award. The ceremony and dinner took place at the Hilton/University of Florida Conference Center during the NHRA Gatornationals weekend.

Infineon Raceway named Michael Re as ticket operations manager. Re has more than 25 years of ticketing experience and will manage all aspects of ticket operations and services at the raceway, including policies and procedures related to ticket sales, pricing and allocation. The raceway also said that Re will coordinate accounting procedures on behalf of the ticketing department, oversee the maintenance of the ticketing system and oversee customer-service functions.

The Mickey Thompson Sportsman Pro tire was among five legendary speed parts selected for induction into the Hot Rod Magazine Speed Parts Hall of Fame for 2011. According to Hot Rod, the company revolutionized the tire business in the early ’60s with innovative low-profile rubber and created the tire that changed the world of street cars with the Sportsman Pro. The other newly added parts to the Hot Rod Speed Parts Hall of Fame are Center Line Auto Drag wheels, General Motors Performance Parts ZZZ HO crate engine, Deist Safety drag parachutes and Speedmasters Inc. aluminum small-block Chevy heads. Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

	SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup.

SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup. Snyder has been involved in the motorsports industry for nearly 30 years, competing as a driver in the open-wheel Indy Lights series and has competed regularly in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Challenge races over the past five seasons. As director of competition, Snyder will be responsible for providing coaching and oversight to drivers, including reviewing all on-track activity and assisting race officials with decisions throughout each event weekend.

Granatelli Motor Sports announced that the company is the title sponsor of the NMCA’s West Coast Mustang Madness series—an all-new, four-race series that caters to the West Coast Mustang drag-racing scene. The races are set for Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, April 20–22; Famoso Dragway, Bakersfield, California, June 22–24; Speed World Dragway, Phoenix; September 28–30; Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, October 19–21. “The NMCA West Street Car Series sponsorship is a natural for us, since our roots run deep in the Mustang drag racing arena,” said J.R. Granatelli, owner of Granatelli Motor Sports Inc. “We strongly believe racing is the best way to engage racers and support them in their endeavors.” Granatelli Motor Sports, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-6644.

Hawk Performance Products Group, a division of Carlisle Brake and Friction, hired Andrew Hisley as director of marketing. Hisley will coordinate global activities in the performance market segment for aftermarket and OE customers. His responsibilities include coordinating prices, analysis, product rationalization, short- and long-term planning and strategic brand management. Hawk Performance Products Group, Solon, OH; 440-528-4000.

DuPont announced that it is accepting entries for its Calendar Competition, where winners will receive cash prizes and be featured in the company’s 2013 calendar. The competition is open to owners with vehicles painted with DuPont Refinish, Hot Hues or Cromax Pro. There is no entry fee for the competition, and entries can be submitted online at www.customfinishescalendar.dupont.com. The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 30, 2012. DuPont Hot Hues, Wilmington, DE; 800-3-DUPONT.

K&N Engineering recently released a video of 2010 Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. chasing down a miniature RC car version of his car through the K&N facility. The company is giving away five limited-edition Vaughn Gittin Jr. remote-control drift cars, signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr., in a sweepstakes through Facebook. Check out the video, including outtakes, at www.youtube.com/knfilters. K&N Engineering Inc., Riverside, CA; 951-826-4100.

Automotive Lift Institute will help bring Petty’s Garage Performance Tour to nationwide consumers through a recently announced partnership between the two companies. “Partnering with Petty’s Garage on the Performance Tour makes sense because the Automotive Lift Institute’s safety and inspection message is complemented by the rich history and tremendous brand recognition Petty’s Garage brings to the table,” said R.W. (Bob) O’Gorman, president of Automotive Lift Institute. The partnership is an extension of work that began in 2005 with Richard and Kyle Petty through the production of the “Lifting It Right” DVD focusing on automotive lift operator safety training. Automotive Lift Institute, Cortland, NY; 607-756-7775.

TruXedo announced that the company became ISO 9001:2008 certified in December 2011 after completing an audit of its quality-management system by Intertek. “Quality...first time, on time, every time! This is what the employees of TruXedo, Inc. have lived by for several years, but now we proudly fly the ISO-9000:2008 certification flag in our facility,” said, Kelly Kneifl, vice president and COO, THI. “I’m very appreciative of the diligent work, dedication to the certification process and the focus our employees have demonstrated by providing quality products and service to our customers for well over a decade.” TruXedo, Yankton, SD; 877-878-9336.

McLeod Racing LLC hired Bob Scheid as director of business development, which is a newly formed position at the company. McLeod reported that Scheid has worked in the automotive aftermarket for more than 20 years, holding positions that ranged from the parts counters of Nationwise Auto Parts to president of Fidanza Engineering and director of business development for Digital Performance Inc. McLeod Racing, Placentia, CA; 714-630-2764.

RideTech announced that the winner of its Streetrod Design Contest was Gary Drayton, who received a $500 cash prize. There were 60 designs entered for the contest, and more than 1,000 votes were registered. The company also stated that features of Drayton’s design were incorporated into the vinyl wrap that the company developed for the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in March. RideTech, Jasper, IN; 812-482-2932.

According to a release by Lucas Oil Products, the 26th annual Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals Presented by General Tire will air April 14, at 3:00 p.m. (CST). The broadcast will be carried by CBS and its nearly 200 affiliates throughout the United States. The Chili Bowl Nationals were originally set to air on the CBS Sports Network in January. The forthcoming broadcast marks the first time that the Chili Bowl will be aired on one of the Big Three television networks. Lucas Oil Products, Corona, CA; 951-270-0154.

Through a new agreement and continued sponsorship of Brenton Productions’ “Two Guys Garage” television show, Federated will sponsor two regular segments called “Tech Talk by Federated Auto Parts” and “Brake Room.” The segments will be featured on every episode of “Two Guys Garage” beginning April 28 and will run through November 2012. The focus of “Tech Talk” will be on education and training, with emphasis on parts and solutions provided by the automotive aftermarket. “Break Room” segments will highlight the innovative and high-quality parts supplied by Federated’s manufacturing partners. Brenton Productions, Swansea, MA; 800-572-7798.

Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc. announced that it redesigned its website, www.vischeck.net, to include easier navigation and more information on the company’s products. The website is now linked to the new online shopping site, www.store.vispolish.com, where supplies, parts and machines can be ordered. Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc., Orlando, FL; 407-206-3615.

Be Cool Inc. founder Roger Rosebush announced that the company has been sold to Aerospace America of Bay City, which will now handle Michigan-based product manufacturing. Rosebush also said that the company will increase services and product development in the years ahead, and he will remain as a consultant to help ensure a smooth transition. Be Cool Inc., Essexville, MI; 989-895-9699.

The Subaru Impreza received the 2012 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Compact Car during the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Subaru set sales records in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% compared to the previous year, the company reported. The Impreza is equipped with a 148-horsepower 2.0L Boxer engine and is available with the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or an enhanced Lineartronic CVT.

	WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012.

A WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012. The bike made its debut January 27 at the Pittsburgh Autorama, and the remaining stops include the WyoTech-Sacramento Car Show, May 5, Sacramento, California; the WyoTech/NSRA Car Show, May 19, Laramie, Wyoming; the Ford/AAA Students Skills Finals, June 10–12, Dearborn, Michigan; Thunder in the Valley, June 21–22, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; the SkillsUSA Competition, June 23–27, Kansas City, Missouri; and the California State Fair, July 12–15, Sacramento. More information on the bike and tour are available at www.wyochopper.com. WyoTech, Laramie, WY; 307-742-3776.

Perris Auto Speedway was named Small Business of the Year by Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President Grant Bennett presented the award to promoter Don Kazarian. The 1/2-mile clay oval opened its 17th season with the Sokola Shootout, featuring Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series, California Lightning Sprint cars and the PAS Senior Sprints.

Ohio Technical College announced that it is using the two leading forms of social media—Facebook and Twitter—to communicate directly with car enthusiasts and prospective students while highlighting the curriculum. The Ohio Technical College Facebook page features school announcements, photos of student projects, videos and links to industry stories. The school’s Twitter page includes details on real-world training, links and photos from inside the classroom and information about upcoming events.

Surf City Garage and Hopkins Manufacturing entered into a marketing partnership through which Hopkins will design, market and distribute enthusiast-grade vehicle cleaning tools and accessories that complement the Surf City Garage car care product line. All tools will bear the Surf Garage brand name. The enthusiast-grade detailing tools will be rolled out in 2012, according to the companies. Surf City Garage, Huntington Beach, CA; 714-894-1707. Hopkins Manufacturing, Emporia, KS.

Motovicity Distribution hired Susan Ozimek as vice president of purchasing and category management. Ozimek was recently chief operating officer for Lighting Supply Co., where Motovicity said her strategic direction and systems and technology upgrades doubled sales and profit revenues. According to Motovicity, Ozimek will bring focus to vendor relations and product management to support the company’s business and customer-satisfaction goals. Motovicity Distribution, Madison Heights, MI; 888-SPEED-16.

The International Drag Racing Hall of Fame, based at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Florida, announced its 2012 class of honorees. They are Bob Brandt, John Mazmanian, Don Moody, Ray Motes, Mike Kuhl, Carl Olson and Ed Schartman. In addition, popular West Coast race promoter/marketer Bill Doner was honored as the recipient of the 2012 Founder’s Award. The ceremony and dinner took place at the Hilton/University of Florida Conference Center during the NHRA Gatornationals weekend.

Infineon Raceway named Michael Re as ticket operations manager. Re has more than 25 years of ticketing experience and will manage all aspects of ticket operations and services at the raceway, including policies and procedures related to ticket sales, pricing and allocation. The raceway also said that Re will coordinate accounting procedures on behalf of the ticketing department, oversee the maintenance of the ticketing system and oversee customer-service functions.

The Mickey Thompson Sportsman Pro tire was among five legendary speed parts selected for induction into the Hot Rod Magazine Speed Parts Hall of Fame for 2011. According to Hot Rod, the company revolutionized the tire business in the early ’60s with innovative low-profile rubber and created the tire that changed the world of street cars with the Sportsman Pro. The other newly added parts to the Hot Rod Speed Parts Hall of Fame are Center Line Auto Drag wheels, General Motors Performance Parts ZZZ HO crate engine, Deist Safety drag parachutes and Speedmasters Inc. aluminum small-block Chevy heads. Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

	SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup.

SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup. Snyder has been involved in the motorsports industry for nearly 30 years, competing as a driver in the open-wheel Indy Lights series and has competed regularly in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Challenge races over the past five seasons. As director of competition, Snyder will be responsible for providing coaching and oversight to drivers, including reviewing all on-track activity and assisting race officials with decisions throughout each event weekend.

Granatelli Motor Sports announced that the company is the title sponsor of the NMCA’s West Coast Mustang Madness series—an all-new, four-race series that caters to the West Coast Mustang drag-racing scene. The races are set for Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, April 20–22; Famoso Dragway, Bakersfield, California, June 22–24; Speed World Dragway, Phoenix; September 28–30; Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, October 19–21. “The NMCA West Street Car Series sponsorship is a natural for us, since our roots run deep in the Mustang drag racing arena,” said J.R. Granatelli, owner of Granatelli Motor Sports Inc. “We strongly believe racing is the best way to engage racers and support them in their endeavors.” Granatelli Motor Sports, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-6644.

Hawk Performance Products Group, a division of Carlisle Brake and Friction, hired Andrew Hisley as director of marketing. Hisley will coordinate global activities in the performance market segment for aftermarket and OE customers. His responsibilities include coordinating prices, analysis, product rationalization, short- and long-term planning and strategic brand management. Hawk Performance Products Group, Solon, OH; 440-528-4000.

DuPont announced that it is accepting entries for its Calendar Competition, where winners will receive cash prizes and be featured in the company’s 2013 calendar. The competition is open to owners with vehicles painted with DuPont Refinish, Hot Hues or Cromax Pro. There is no entry fee for the competition, and entries can be submitted online at www.customfinishescalendar.dupont.com. The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 30, 2012. DuPont Hot Hues, Wilmington, DE; 800-3-DUPONT.

K&N Engineering recently released a video of 2010 Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. chasing down a miniature RC car version of his car through the K&N facility. The company is giving away five limited-edition Vaughn Gittin Jr. remote-control drift cars, signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr., in a sweepstakes through Facebook. Check out the video, including outtakes, at www.youtube.com/knfilters. K&N Engineering Inc., Riverside, CA; 951-826-4100.

Automotive Lift Institute will help bring Petty’s Garage Performance Tour to nationwide consumers through a recently announced partnership between the two companies. “Partnering with Petty’s Garage on the Performance Tour makes sense because the Automotive Lift Institute’s safety and inspection message is complemented by the rich history and tremendous brand recognition Petty’s Garage brings to the table,” said R.W. (Bob) O’Gorman, president of Automotive Lift Institute. The partnership is an extension of work that began in 2005 with Richard and Kyle Petty through the production of the “Lifting It Right” DVD focusing on automotive lift operator safety training. Automotive Lift Institute, Cortland, NY; 607-756-7775.

TruXedo announced that the company became ISO 9001:2008 certified in December 2011 after completing an audit of its quality-management system by Intertek. “Quality...first time, on time, every time! This is what the employees of TruXedo, Inc. have lived by for several years, but now we proudly fly the ISO-9000:2008 certification flag in our facility,” said, Kelly Kneifl, vice president and COO, THI. “I’m very appreciative of the diligent work, dedication to the certification process and the focus our employees have demonstrated by providing quality products and service to our customers for well over a decade.” TruXedo, Yankton, SD; 877-878-9336.

McLeod Racing LLC hired Bob Scheid as director of business development, which is a newly formed position at the company. McLeod reported that Scheid has worked in the automotive aftermarket for more than 20 years, holding positions that ranged from the parts counters of Nationwise Auto Parts to president of Fidanza Engineering and director of business development for Digital Performance Inc. McLeod Racing, Placentia, CA; 714-630-2764.

RideTech announced that the winner of its Streetrod Design Contest was Gary Drayton, who received a $500 cash prize. There were 60 designs entered for the contest, and more than 1,000 votes were registered. The company also stated that features of Drayton’s design were incorporated into the vinyl wrap that the company developed for the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in March. RideTech, Jasper, IN; 812-482-2932.

According to a release by Lucas Oil Products, the 26th annual Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals Presented by General Tire will air April 14, at 3:00 p.m. (CST). The broadcast will be carried by CBS and its nearly 200 affiliates throughout the United States. The Chili Bowl Nationals were originally set to air on the CBS Sports Network in January. The forthcoming broadcast marks the first time that the Chili Bowl will be aired on one of the Big Three television networks. Lucas Oil Products, Corona, CA; 951-270-0154.

Through a new agreement and continued sponsorship of Brenton Productions’ “Two Guys Garage” television show, Federated will sponsor two regular segments called “Tech Talk by Federated Auto Parts” and “Brake Room.” The segments will be featured on every episode of “Two Guys Garage” beginning April 28 and will run through November 2012. The focus of “Tech Talk” will be on education and training, with emphasis on parts and solutions provided by the automotive aftermarket. “Break Room” segments will highlight the innovative and high-quality parts supplied by Federated’s manufacturing partners. Brenton Productions, Swansea, MA; 800-572-7798.

Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc. announced that it redesigned its website, www.vischeck.net, to include easier navigation and more information on the company’s products. The website is now linked to the new online shopping site, www.store.vispolish.com, where supplies, parts and machines can be ordered. Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc., Orlando, FL; 407-206-3615.

Be Cool Inc. founder Roger Rosebush announced that the company has been sold to Aerospace America of Bay City, which will now handle Michigan-based product manufacturing. Rosebush also said that the company will increase services and product development in the years ahead, and he will remain as a consultant to help ensure a smooth transition. Be Cool Inc., Essexville, MI; 989-895-9699.

The Subaru Impreza received the 2012 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Compact Car during the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Subaru set sales records in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% compared to the previous year, the company reported. The Impreza is equipped with a 148-horsepower 2.0L Boxer engine and is available with the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or an enhanced Lineartronic CVT.

	WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012.

A WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012. The bike made its debut January 27 at the Pittsburgh Autorama, and the remaining stops include the WyoTech-Sacramento Car Show, May 5, Sacramento, California; the WyoTech/NSRA Car Show, May 19, Laramie, Wyoming; the Ford/AAA Students Skills Finals, June 10–12, Dearborn, Michigan; Thunder in the Valley, June 21–22, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; the SkillsUSA Competition, June 23–27, Kansas City, Missouri; and the California State Fair, July 12–15, Sacramento. More information on the bike and tour are available at www.wyochopper.com. WyoTech, Laramie, WY; 307-742-3776.

Perris Auto Speedway was named Small Business of the Year by Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President Grant Bennett presented the award to promoter Don Kazarian. The 1/2-mile clay oval opened its 17th season with the Sokola Shootout, featuring Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series, California Lightning Sprint cars and the PAS Senior Sprints.

Ohio Technical College announced that it is using the two leading forms of social media—Facebook and Twitter—to communicate directly with car enthusiasts and prospective students while highlighting the curriculum. The Ohio Technical College Facebook page features school announcements, photos of student projects, videos and links to industry stories. The school’s Twitter page includes details on real-world training, links and photos from inside the classroom and information about upcoming events.

Surf City Garage and Hopkins Manufacturing entered into a marketing partnership through which Hopkins will design, market and distribute enthusiast-grade vehicle cleaning tools and accessories that complement the Surf City Garage car care product line. All tools will bear the Surf Garage brand name. The enthusiast-grade detailing tools will be rolled out in 2012, according to the companies. Surf City Garage, Huntington Beach, CA; 714-894-1707. Hopkins Manufacturing, Emporia, KS.

Motovicity Distribution hired Susan Ozimek as vice president of purchasing and category management. Ozimek was recently chief operating officer for Lighting Supply Co., where Motovicity said her strategic direction and systems and technology upgrades doubled sales and profit revenues. According to Motovicity, Ozimek will bring focus to vendor relations and product management to support the company’s business and customer-satisfaction goals. Motovicity Distribution, Madison Heights, MI; 888-SPEED-16.

The International Drag Racing Hall of Fame, based at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Florida, announced its 2012 class of honorees. They are Bob Brandt, John Mazmanian, Don Moody, Ray Motes, Mike Kuhl, Carl Olson and Ed Schartman. In addition, popular West Coast race promoter/marketer Bill Doner was honored as the recipient of the 2012 Founder’s Award. The ceremony and dinner took place at the Hilton/University of Florida Conference Center during the NHRA Gatornationals weekend.

Infineon Raceway named Michael Re as ticket operations manager. Re has more than 25 years of ticketing experience and will manage all aspects of ticket operations and services at the raceway, including policies and procedures related to ticket sales, pricing and allocation. The raceway also said that Re will coordinate accounting procedures on behalf of the ticketing department, oversee the maintenance of the ticketing system and oversee customer-service functions.

The Mickey Thompson Sportsman Pro tire was among five legendary speed parts selected for induction into the Hot Rod Magazine Speed Parts Hall of Fame for 2011. According to Hot Rod, the company revolutionized the tire business in the early ’60s with innovative low-profile rubber and created the tire that changed the world of street cars with the Sportsman Pro. The other newly added parts to the Hot Rod Speed Parts Hall of Fame are Center Line Auto Drag wheels, General Motors Performance Parts ZZZ HO crate engine, Deist Safety drag parachutes and Speedmasters Inc. aluminum small-block Chevy heads. Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

	SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup.

SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup. Snyder has been involved in the motorsports industry for nearly 30 years, competing as a driver in the open-wheel Indy Lights series and has competed regularly in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Challenge races over the past five seasons. As director of competition, Snyder will be responsible for providing coaching and oversight to drivers, including reviewing all on-track activity and assisting race officials with decisions throughout each event weekend.

Granatelli Motor Sports announced that the company is the title sponsor of the NMCA’s West Coast Mustang Madness series—an all-new, four-race series that caters to the West Coast Mustang drag-racing scene. The races are set for Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, April 20–22; Famoso Dragway, Bakersfield, California, June 22–24; Speed World Dragway, Phoenix; September 28–30; Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, October 19–21. “The NMCA West Street Car Series sponsorship is a natural for us, since our roots run deep in the Mustang drag racing arena,” said J.R. Granatelli, owner of Granatelli Motor Sports Inc. “We strongly believe racing is the best way to engage racers and support them in their endeavors.” Granatelli Motor Sports, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-6644.

Hawk Performance Products Group, a division of Carlisle Brake and Friction, hired Andrew Hisley as director of marketing. Hisley will coordinate global activities in the performance market segment for aftermarket and OE customers. His responsibilities include coordinating prices, analysis, product rationalization, short- and long-term planning and strategic brand management. Hawk Performance Products Group, Solon, OH; 440-528-4000.

DuPont announced that it is accepting entries for its Calendar Competition, where winners will receive cash prizes and be featured in the company’s 2013 calendar. The competition is open to owners with vehicles painted with DuPont Refinish, Hot Hues or Cromax Pro. There is no entry fee for the competition, and entries can be submitted online at www.customfinishescalendar.dupont.com. The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 30, 2012. DuPont Hot Hues, Wilmington, DE; 800-3-DUPONT.

K&N Engineering recently released a video of 2010 Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. chasing down a miniature RC car version of his car through the K&N facility. The company is giving away five limited-edition Vaughn Gittin Jr. remote-control drift cars, signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr., in a sweepstakes through Facebook. Check out the video, including outtakes, at www.youtube.com/knfilters. K&N Engineering Inc., Riverside, CA; 951-826-4100.

Automotive Lift Institute will help bring Petty’s Garage Performance Tour to nationwide consumers through a recently announced partnership between the two companies. “Partnering with Petty’s Garage on the Performance Tour makes sense because the Automotive Lift Institute’s safety and inspection message is complemented by the rich history and tremendous brand recognition Petty’s Garage brings to the table,” said R.W. (Bob) O’Gorman, president of Automotive Lift Institute. The partnership is an extension of work that began in 2005 with Richard and Kyle Petty through the production of the “Lifting It Right” DVD focusing on automotive lift operator safety training. Automotive Lift Institute, Cortland, NY; 607-756-7775.

TruXedo announced that the company became ISO 9001:2008 certified in December 2011 after completing an audit of its quality-management system by Intertek. “Quality...first time, on time, every time! This is what the employees of TruXedo, Inc. have lived by for several years, but now we proudly fly the ISO-9000:2008 certification flag in our facility,” said, Kelly Kneifl, vice president and COO, THI. “I’m very appreciative of the diligent work, dedication to the certification process and the focus our employees have demonstrated by providing quality products and service to our customers for well over a decade.” TruXedo, Yankton, SD; 877-878-9336.

McLeod Racing LLC hired Bob Scheid as director of business development, which is a newly formed position at the company. McLeod reported that Scheid has worked in the automotive aftermarket for more than 20 years, holding positions that ranged from the parts counters of Nationwise Auto Parts to president of Fidanza Engineering and director of business development for Digital Performance Inc. McLeod Racing, Placentia, CA; 714-630-2764.

RideTech announced that the winner of its Streetrod Design Contest was Gary Drayton, who received a $500 cash prize. There were 60 designs entered for the contest, and more than 1,000 votes were registered. The company also stated that features of Drayton’s design were incorporated into the vinyl wrap that the company developed for the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in March. RideTech, Jasper, IN; 812-482-2932.

According to a release by Lucas Oil Products, the 26th annual Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals Presented by General Tire will air April 14, at 3:00 p.m. (CST). The broadcast will be carried by CBS and its nearly 200 affiliates throughout the United States. The Chili Bowl Nationals were originally set to air on the CBS Sports Network in January. The forthcoming broadcast marks the first time that the Chili Bowl will be aired on one of the Big Three television networks. Lucas Oil Products, Corona, CA; 951-270-0154.

Through a new agreement and continued sponsorship of Brenton Productions’ “Two Guys Garage” television show, Federated will sponsor two regular segments called “Tech Talk by Federated Auto Parts” and “Brake Room.” The segments will be featured on every episode of “Two Guys Garage” beginning April 28 and will run through November 2012. The focus of “Tech Talk” will be on education and training, with emphasis on parts and solutions provided by the automotive aftermarket. “Break Room” segments will highlight the innovative and high-quality parts supplied by Federated’s manufacturing partners. Brenton Productions, Swansea, MA; 800-572-7798.

Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc. announced that it redesigned its website, www.vischeck.net, to include easier navigation and more information on the company’s products. The website is now linked to the new online shopping site, www.store.vispolish.com, where supplies, parts and machines can be ordered. Vehicle Inspection Systems Inc., Orlando, FL; 407-206-3615.

Be Cool Inc. founder Roger Rosebush announced that the company has been sold to Aerospace America of Bay City, which will now handle Michigan-based product manufacturing. Rosebush also said that the company will increase services and product development in the years ahead, and he will remain as a consultant to help ensure a smooth transition. Be Cool Inc., Essexville, MI; 989-895-9699.

The Subaru Impreza received the 2012 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Compact Car during the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Subaru set sales records in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% compared to the previous year, the company reported. The Impreza is equipped with a 148-horsepower 2.0L Boxer engine and is available with the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or an enhanced Lineartronic CVT.

	WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012.

A WyoTech-branded motorcycle, built by Orange County Choppers on the “American Chopper” TV show with the help of WyoTech students, will visit several events across the country through July 2012. The bike made its debut January 27 at the Pittsburgh Autorama, and the remaining stops include the WyoTech-Sacramento Car Show, May 5, Sacramento, California; the WyoTech/NSRA Car Show, May 19, Laramie, Wyoming; the Ford/AAA Students Skills Finals, June 10–12, Dearborn, Michigan; Thunder in the Valley, June 21–22, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; the SkillsUSA Competition, June 23–27, Kansas City, Missouri; and the California State Fair, July 12–15, Sacramento. More information on the bike and tour are available at www.wyochopper.com. WyoTech, Laramie, WY; 307-742-3776.

Perris Auto Speedway was named Small Business of the Year by Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President Grant Bennett presented the award to promoter Don Kazarian. The 1/2-mile clay oval opened its 17th season with the Sokola Shootout, featuring Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series, California Lightning Sprint cars and the PAS Senior Sprints.

Ohio Technical College announced that it is using the two leading forms of social media—Facebook and Twitter—to communicate directly with car enthusiasts and prospective students while highlighting the curriculum. The Ohio Technical College Facebook page features school announcements, photos of student projects, videos and links to industry stories. The school’s Twitter page includes details on real-world training, links and photos from inside the classroom and information about upcoming events.

Surf City Garage and Hopkins Manufacturing entered into a marketing partnership through which Hopkins will design, market and distribute enthusiast-grade vehicle cleaning tools and accessories that complement the Surf City Garage car care product line. All tools will bear the Surf Garage brand name. The enthusiast-grade detailing tools will be rolled out in 2012, according to the companies. Surf City Garage, Huntington Beach, CA; 714-894-1707. Hopkins Manufacturing, Emporia, KS.

Motovicity Distribution hired Susan Ozimek as vice president of purchasing and category management. Ozimek was recently chief operating officer for Lighting Supply Co., where Motovicity said her strategic direction and systems and technology upgrades doubled sales and profit revenues. According to Motovicity, Ozimek will bring focus to vendor relations and product management to support the company’s business and customer-satisfaction goals. Motovicity Distribution, Madison Heights, MI; 888-SPEED-16.

The International Drag Racing Hall of Fame, based at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Florida, announced its 2012 class of honorees. They are Bob Brandt, John Mazmanian, Don Moody, Ray Motes, Mike Kuhl, Carl Olson and Ed Schartman. In addition, popular West Coast race promoter/marketer Bill Doner was honored as the recipient of the 2012 Founder’s Award. The ceremony and dinner took place at the Hilton/University of Florida Conference Center during the NHRA Gatornationals weekend.

Infineon Raceway named Michael Re as ticket operations manager. Re has more than 25 years of ticketing experience and will manage all aspects of ticket operations and services at the raceway, including policies and procedures related to ticket sales, pricing and allocation. The raceway also said that Re will coordinate accounting procedures on behalf of the ticketing department, oversee the maintenance of the ticketing system and oversee customer-service functions.

The Mickey Thompson Sportsman Pro tire was among five legendary speed parts selected for induction into the Hot Rod Magazine Speed Parts Hall of Fame for 2011. According to Hot Rod, the company revolutionized the tire business in the early ’60s with innovative low-profile rubber and created the tire that changed the world of street cars with the Sportsman Pro. The other newly added parts to the Hot Rod Speed Parts Hall of Fame are Center Line Auto Drag wheels, General Motors Performance Parts ZZZ HO crate engine, Deist Safety drag parachutes and Speedmasters Inc. aluminum small-block Chevy heads. Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

	SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup.

SCCA Pro Racing hired motorsports veteran Todd Snyder to serve as director of competition for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup. Snyder has been involved in the motorsports industry for nearly 30 years, competing as a driver in the open-wheel Indy Lights series and has competed regularly in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Challenge races over the past five seasons. As director of competition, Snyder will be responsible for providing coaching and oversight to drivers, including reviewing all on-track activity and assisting race officials with decisions throughout each event weekend.

Granatelli Motor Sports announced that the company is the title sponsor of the NMCA’s West Coast Mustang Madness series—an all-new, four-race series that caters to the West Coast Mustang drag-racing scene. The races are set for Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, April 20–22; Famoso Dragway, Bakersfield, California, June 22–24; Speed World Dragway, Phoenix; September 28–30; Auto Club Dragway, Fontana, California, October 19–21. “The NMCA West Street Car Series sponsorship is a natural for us, since our roots run deep in the Mustang drag racing arena,” said J.R. Granatelli, owner of Granatelli Motor Sports Inc. “We strongly believe racing is the best way to engage racers and support them in their endeavors.” Granatelli Motor Sports, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-6644.

Hawk Performance Products Group, a division of Carlisle Brake and Friction, hired Andrew Hisley as director of marketing. Hisley will coordinate global activities in the performance market segment for aftermarket and OE customers. His responsibilities include coordinating prices, analysis, product rationalization, short- and long-term planning and strategic brand management. Hawk Performance Products Group, Solon, OH; 440-528-4000.

DuPont announced that it is accepting entries for its Calendar Competition, where winners will receive cash prizes and be featured in the company’s 2013 calendar. The competition is open to owners with vehicles painted with DuPont Refinish, Hot Hues or Cromax Pro. There is no entry fee for the competition, and entries can be submitted online at www.customfinishescalendar.dupont.com. The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 30, 2012. DuPont Hot Hues, Wilmington, DE; 800-3-DUPONT.

K&N Engineering recently released a video of 2010 Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. chasing down a miniature RC car version of his car through the K&N facility. The company is giving away five limited-edition Vaughn Gittin Jr. remote-control drift cars, signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr., in a sweepstakes through Facebook. Check out the video, including outtakes, at www.youtube.com/knfilters. K&N Engineering Inc., Riverside, CA; 951-826-4100.

Automotive Lift Institute will help bring Petty’s Garage Performance Tour to nationwide consumers through a recently announced partnership between the two companies. “Partnering with Petty’s Garage on the Performance Tour makes sense because the Automotive Lift Institute’s safety and inspection message is complemented by the rich history and tremendous brand recognition Petty’s Garage brings to the table,” said R.W. (Bob) O’Gorman, president of Automotive Lift Institute. The partnership is an extension of work that began in 2005 with Richard and Kyle Petty through the production of the “Lifting It Right” DVD focusing on automotive lift operator safety training. Automotive Lift Institute, Cortland, NY; 607-756-7775.

TruXedo announced that the company became ISO 9001:2008 certified in December 2011 after completing an audit of its quality-management system by Intertek. “Quality...first time, on time, every time! This is what the employees of TruXedo, Inc. have lived by for several years, but now we proudly fly the ISO-9000:2008 certification flag in our facility,” said, Kelly Kneifl, vice president and COO, THI. “I’m very appreciative of the diligent work, dedication to the certification process and the focus our employees have demonstrated by providing quality products and service to our customers for well over a decade.” TruXedo, Yankton, SD; 877-878-9336.