Wed, 02/01/2012 - 01:38

SEMA News—February 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

auto repair, auto awards, auto technician
Steven Ray from Essex Junction, Vermont, received the Technician of the Future Award
Steven Ray from Essex Junction, Vermont, received the Technician of the Future Award, sponsored by Mitchell 1 and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) at the 2011 ASE Fall Board of Governors Meeting and Technician Recognition Awards. Ray has been an automotive technician for five years and has worked as a BMW technician at The Automaster, BMW, in Shelburne, Vermont, for the past year. He received an associate’s degree in automotive technology from Ohio Technical College in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was on the honor roll every quarter. Mitchell 1, Poway, CA; 858-391-5000.

Midwest Truck & Auto Parts Inc. has acquired the assets of Richmond Gear from Regal Beloit Corp. for an undisclosed amount. Richmond Gear manufacturers ring-and-pinions, transmissions and traction-control devices for the racing and high-performance off-road aftermarkets. Midwest’s acquisition also includes the Powertrax and Lock-Right product lines. Midwest Truck & Auto Parts Inc., Chicago, IL; 800-934-2727.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. will continue as the official tire of the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) through 2015. Toyo Tires stated that it has enjoyed a long association with NASA. The Toyo Proxes RA1 became the spec tire for select racing classes in 2002. Toyo Tires also announced that it will return as the title sponsor of the NASA Championships at Mid Ohio Sports Car Course. Toyo Tires will increase the payouts in its NASA contingency program. Toyo Tires U.S.A. Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

HushMat has added Vincent De Stefano, who has more than 28 years of experience in the consumer electronics industry, to its sales team. He has worked in almost every level of the retail, from salesman to national positions. Tim McCarthy, founder of HushMat stated, “We are pleased to have Vincent join us as a key member of our sales team. Vincent’s skills and 28 years of experience in virtually every level of sales is a great addition for our company.” HushMat, Olathe, KS; 913-599-2600.

ASA Automotive Systems (formerly ASA Tire Systems) announced that it has implemented more than 100 new systems so far in 2011, with more than 1,100 new users at more than 300 locations nationwide. ASA provides software systems and services to independent tire dealers and automotive service centers. According to the company, with the installation of 100 new systems, ASA doubled the new-system installations it reported in 2010. ASA Automotive Systems, Merrimack, NH; 603-889-8700.

Aeromotive Inc. named legendary racer and engine builder Chuck Samuel as the new crew chief for the Aeromotive Ford Mustang Pro Mod. “Chuck and I have been friends for a long time,” said Steve Matusek, Aeromotive founder and president. “He’s been a great resource and a wealth of knowledge for us over the years, but we feel that we have a package with this new car that can be extremely competitive and possibly do some things that will get everyone’s attention.” Aeromotive Inc., Lenexa, KS; 913-647-7300.

auto events, auto shows,
The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced that it closed the 2011 season on a high note with the 1st annual Fall Del Mar Nationals at the Del Mar Fairgrounds over Thanksgiving weekend.
The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced that it closed the 2011 season on a high note with the 1st annual Fall Del Mar Nationals at the Del Mar Fairgrounds over Thanksgiving weekend. The first-time event attracted more than 1,000 cars and a bustling holiday weekend crowd. The toy drive at the event produced more than 2,000 toys for the needy children of San Diego County. In addition, more than $2,500 was raised in support of the Camp Pendleton “Wounded Warriors” detachment. The 2nd annual Goodguys Fall Del Mar Nationals is scheduled for November 23–25, 2012.

PlastiKote has entered the world of social media by adding a new Facebook page and a Twitter account in an effort to communicate more directly with its customers. The new Facebook page features the latest news and product information, and Plastikote reports that it will soon add helpful tips, how-to videos and special promotional contests for fans. In addition, Twitter followers of PlastiKote will be kept up-to-date on the company’s latest news and happenings.

McCullough Public Relations was retained as the public relations firm representing the automotive and manufacturing divisions of GOJO Industries. GOJO develops products and programs to kill germs on hands and solve skin-care-related problems for a variety of markets, including manufacturing, automotive, construction, healthcare, food service, food processing, education, government and military. McCullough Public Relations, Uniontown, OH; 330-244-9980.

Mota Motors appointed digital automotive marketing veteran Ken Potter as the company’s chief revenue officer. Potter joins the Mota team as the company prepares to launch a used-vehicle certification program. Potter served as vice president and general manager of automotive at CarsDirect.com for 10 years and, according to Mota Motors, is a pioneer of using the Internet to create a transparent informative process for consumers.

Extech Instruments relocated its headquarters to an all-new facility in Nashua, New Hampshire. According to the company, the move was made to accommodate strong growth and to serve customers better in the years ahead. In addition, Extech announced the move, along with the Billerica, Massachusetts, operations of parent company, FLIR Systems’ Commercial Systems division to 9 Townsend West, Nashua, New Hampshire 03063-1233 USA. Extech’s toll free number remains unchanged: 877-2-EXTECH (398324). The new local number is
603-324-7800.

Carlisle Events announced a business and sponsorship partnership with Gumout Performance Products (a division/brand of ITW Global Brands) that begins with Spring Carlisle (April 25–29) and continues through Fall Carlisle (October 3–7). By partnering with Carlisle Events, the Gumout collection becomes the official performance product line for all 10 Carlisle-based events in 2012. Additionally, Gumout has agreed to be the presenting sponsor of the Carlisle Ford Nationals, June 1–3, at the Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Fairgrounds. Carlisle Events, Carlisle, PA; 717-243-7855.

auto events, auto shows,
Heri Automotive received a 2011 Automotive Communications Award (ACA) in the Business to Business awards category for the company’s new corporate image campaign.
Heri Automotive received a 2011 Automotive Communications Award (ACA) in the Business to Business awards category for the company’s new corporate image campaign. To support its 2011 aftermarket product launch, Heri Automotive worked with The Marx Group to develop a new corporate identity. The new campaign included a branding strategy, logo, website, video, sale support materials and distinctive packaging. The ACAs, sponsored by the Women’s Board and supported by the Automotive Communication Council, honor companies/agencies that provide automotive information through outstanding advertising, marketing and public relations efforts. The Marx Group, San Rafael, CA; 415-453-0844.

Edge Products partnered with United Pullers to act as the title sponsor of the Edge Pulling Series for the 2012 season. The series will include all of United’s events held in the Rocky Mountain region. According to Edge Products, Weekend on the Edge will become an official United Pullers event in 2012 and will serve as the flagship national show within the Edge Pulling Series. Edge Products and United Pullers hope to continue growing the sport in the Rocky Mountain region and provide pullers from across the nation with a sanctioned series that can accommodate competitors within a variety of categories. Edge Products, Ogden, UT; 801-476-3343.

Konig American President and CEO Ricardo Guevara announced his retirement. Joseph Schaefer, who has served as Konig’s general manager for the past 15 years, assumes the role and responsibilities of president, and Raymond Chan of YHI International, Singapore takes Schaefer’s place as Konig American’s general manager. Guevara remains chairman of the company, which he founded in 1981 as the exclusive North American importer of Konig Racing Seats from Germany. In 1991, Guevara expanded the company’s product lines to import wheels, including the popular Tuner wheel model, which Konig hails as its first major success. Konig, Plainview, NY; 516-822-5700.

Wilwood Disc Brakes hired Joe Kubiak and Robert Roese as sales and technical consultants. According to Wilwood, Kubiak has an exceptional background in the automotive racing and performance aftermarket industry, which includes working at BMR Suspension, Braille Battery and Summit Racing’s Atech Motorsports. At Wilwood, Kubiak will focus on sales development activities and participation in Wilwood’s trade show events. Roese has more than 20 years of experience in the automotive racing and performance aftermarket industry, including time at Magnuson Products and Vortech Engineering. He will be involved in Wilwood’s sales development activities and support of Wilwood’s participation in trade events. Wilwood Engineering, Camarillo, CA; 805-388-1188.

auto events, auto shows,
Continental Tire the Americas, Fort Mill, SC
Continental Tire, MLS W.O.R.K.S., Major League Soccer’s (MLS) community outreach initiative, and the Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) have joined forces to benefit the environment. Through the BEF Solar 4R Schools program, the partnership will provide a $50,000 solar installation to a school in the community of MLS Cup 2011 winner the LA Galaxy. Continental Tire the Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

Bosal North America appointed Brent Raschke as product engineer for its automotive carriers and protection systems division. Raschke is responsible for product and vehicle application development and testing for Bosal’s tow-hitch program. He will also be responsible for development of the company’s aftermarket exhaust and windstop programs. He has been a project engineer at Bosal since early 2010 and is based out of Bosal International North America’s research and development facility in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Bosal USA Inc., Budd Lake, NJ; 973-428-9822.

Jon Titman, whose industry background spans nearly three decades, opened Prestige Automotive Accessories, according to a company announcement. The New Carrollton, Maryland-based, restyling center is a full-line automotive accessory installation and distribution facility. The company serves new-car dealerships throughout the Washington, D.C., northern Virginia and Baltimore markets. In addition to his experience in manufacturing, distribution, installation and sales, Titman has long been involved with SEMA and its Professional Restylers Organization (PRO). Titman received the PRO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004 in recognition of his service on the PRO Select Committee and contributions to the restyling industry. Prestige Automotive Accessories, Landover Hills, MD; 301-459-1755.

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 16:51

BMW X5

Here is one of the first looks at the all-new BMW X5, shot near the automaker's headquarters in Munich earlier this month. The photos were delivered by the team at Brenda Priddy & Co.

The team reported that the vehicle will grow significantly in length and include a longer roof, compared to the current-model X5. This additional length will help the vehicle separate itself from the X3 compact SUV. The stretch also provides BMW the option to offer third-row seats, according to Priddy, making the X5 a seven-seater, a popular feature in the U.S. market.

While Priddy says that the X5 featured in the photos was powered by a V8, a hybrid option will certainly be offered as well. The team expects the vehicle to be launched sometime in 2013.

BMW X5
Photos copyright Brenda Priddy & Co. 

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 16:51

BMW X5

Here is one of the first looks at the all-new BMW X5, shot near the automaker's headquarters in Munich earlier this month. The photos were delivered by the team at Brenda Priddy & Co.

The team reported that the vehicle will grow significantly in length and include a longer roof, compared to the current-model X5. This additional length will help the vehicle separate itself from the X3 compact SUV. The stretch also provides BMW the option to offer third-row seats, according to Priddy, making the X5 a seven-seater, a popular feature in the U.S. market.

While Priddy says that the X5 featured in the photos was powered by a V8, a hybrid option will certainly be offered as well. The team expects the vehicle to be launched sometime in 2013.

BMW X5
Photos copyright Brenda Priddy & Co. 

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 16:26

SEMA is opposing legislation to ban motor-vehicle exhaust systems that increase the noise level above the level emitted by the originally installed system. Under the bill, violators would not pass the state’s required inspection. The bill does not provide an opportunity for vehicle hobbyists to install and use aftermarket modified exhaust systems that meet an objective 95-decibel limit under a fair and predictable test.

In addition, the measure does not supply inspectors with an enforcement standard, allowing them to make subjective judgments on whether an exhaust system increases “the noise emitted by the motor vehicle above the level emitted by the exhaust system as originally installed.” 

More information is available. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 16:26

SEMA is opposing legislation to ban motor-vehicle exhaust systems that increase the noise level above the level emitted by the originally installed system. Under the bill, violators would not pass the state’s required inspection. The bill does not provide an opportunity for vehicle hobbyists to install and use aftermarket modified exhaust systems that meet an objective 95-decibel limit under a fair and predictable test.

In addition, the measure does not supply inspectors with an enforcement standard, allowing them to make subjective judgments on whether an exhaust system increases “the noise emitted by the motor vehicle above the level emitted by the exhaust system as originally installed.” 

More information is available. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 15:22

SEMA Member Invis-A-Rack to Appear on ABC's "Shark Tank"
SEMA-member company Invis-A-Rack announced that the company will appear on the ABC television show "Shark Tank" on January 27 at 8:00 p.m. (PST). In 2010, the Invis-A-Rack product received SEMA's Light Truck Industry Alliance (TORA) Industry Award for Best Product Over $500 and received a Global Media Award at the 2010 SEMA Show. More information on  Invis-A-Rack is available at www.invisarack.com.

Auto Meter Acquires ProParts
Auto Meter Products, a Harbour Group Company, has acquired ProParts LLC. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. ProParts designs and engineers gauges and controllers, including the Spek and Spek Pro performance gauges. The company also offers gauge pods, dash pods, instrument-cluster panels and full-pillar clusters. Based in Sycamore, Illinois, Auto Meter Products is a recognized leader in performance and specialty-vehicle instrumentation. 

  Ken Adams
 

Perfect Equipment hired Ken Adams as customer service manager.

 

Ken Adams Joins Perfect Equipment as Customer Service Manager
Perfect Equipment hired Ken Adams as the company's new customer service manager. According to the company, Adams specializes in the automotive aftermarket and previously served as the customer service manager for five years at Beck/Arnley Worldparts after being promoted from warehouse supervisor, where he served for six years.  

Fras-le Begins Heavy-Duty Lining Production; 100 New Employees Anticipated
Fras-le North America Inc. announced that it will begin to produce heavy-duty lining at its friction manufacturing facility in Prattville, Alabama. This is the first time that Fras-le has produced heavy-duty brake lining in the United States. The company reports that the $11 million investment will expand its capabilities to supply lining to its customer base for commercial vehicle businesses in North America. The company's expansion will add new equipment to its Prattville facility and will involve hiring nearly 100 employees in 2012 and 2013.

eTool Developers Celebrates 10 Years in Business
eTool Developers is proud to celebrate 10 years in business. eTool Developers, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was established in December 2001. “As we celebrate 10 years of bringing online solutions to the aftermarket, we humbly thank our customers and industry partners for giving us the opportunity to be of service, and for contributing to our continued success,” said Luanne Brown, CEO, eTool Developers. “Our goal is to help our customers save time, energy, and money by providing solution-driven technology, user-friendly web-based tools, and knowledgeable, experienced staff, and we are excited to see what the next 10 years will bring.”

Ny-Trex Signs as Product Sposnor of the NADM/DIESEL Motorsports 2012 Race Season
Ny-Trex, a division of Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), recently signed as the endorsed product sponsor for the NADM/DIESEL Motorsports 2012 race season. The 2012 seven-series event begins May 5, in Sedalia, Missouri, and concludes November 30, in Orlando, Florida. According to a DEI release, NADM/DIESEL Motorsports is recognized as the only SFI sanctioning body for diesel motorsports and holds over 60 events nationwide featuring over five classes in drag racing and sled pulling. NADM/DIESEL Motorsports offers multiple competitive events including drag racing, sled pulling and dyno-pulls.

  Superchips Jeep
 

Superchips is an official sponsor of the AreaBFE Off Road Park outside Moab, Utah.

 

Superchips Named Official Sponsor AreaBFE Off Road Park
Superchips announced that the company is an official sponsor of the AreaBFE Off Road Park outside Moab, Utah. Superchips will be designated as the “Official Programmer” for 2012 and will work closely with the group that established the park in 2004 to ensure that the private land remains open to all, 365 days a year. In addition, Superchips also announced plans to be on site for the annual Easter Jeep Safari and to co-host a customer appreciation event at AreaBFE with Superior Axle&Gear and Full Traction Suspension. 

Brentwood Communications, Kahn Media, FM3 Performance Marketing Form Alliance
Television and content producers Brentwood Communications International (BCII), PR and social media agency Kahn Media and event marketing firm FM3 Performance Marketing have announced an alliance that will create synergies for the benefit of aftermarket and performance brands. “BCII is at its core a group of storytellers,” said BCII president Greg Glass.  “For years we have been telling the dramatic stories of the automotive industry through our television shows and through our branded entertainment projects.  Working with Kahn Media and FM3 Performance Marketing will help us to expand our storytelling through unique client relationships, web and social media-based distribution and experiential marketing, allowing us to take client-driven, branded entertainment to a whole new level.”  

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 13:49
  Ford Mustang
  Ford project-vehicle requests require two components: an e-mail project summary (due February 21, 2012) and a detailed written proposal (due March 1, 2012).

Ford Motor Co. has announced its Ford and Lincoln project-vehicle program for 2012. The automaker requests that project-vehicle proposals be submitted in two parts, and that all proposals meet the Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program Criteria outlined below.

For more information, contact Sherry Kollien or Mike Nicopolis at semainfo@ford.com.

2012 Ford and Lincoln Project Vehicle Program

Proposal Submission Deadline: March 1, 2012
Award Recipient Notification Date: May 1, 2012

Submit your project-vehicle request in two parts.

Part 1

E-mail one-page project summary: Must be received by February 21, 2012.

Include bullet points for:

  • Vehicle/theme
  • Vehicle modifications
  • New product development
  • Promotional plan
  • Vehicle display location at the 2012 SEMA Show

Part 2

Mail detailed project proposal: Must be received by March 1, 2012.

  • Include details supporting the one-page Project Summary on company letterhead, a color rendering, and past project-vehicle examples.
  • Information on Ford vehicles is available at: www.ford.com
  • Information on Lincoln vehicles is available at: www.lincoln.com

FORD AFTERMARKET PROJECT VEHICLE PROGRAM CRITERIA

Aftermarket companies requesting vehicles should be:

  • Manufacturers or designers/restylers dedicated to supporting new product development
  • Financially capable and willing to spend promotional dollars
  • Actively promoting the vehicle with their product(s) through an established marketing plan
  • Current SEMA member

Aftermarket companies receiving project vehicles must:

  • Feature the vehicle in a booth at the 2012 Las Vegas SEMA Show
  • Register and keep the vehicle in their company name during the entire contract period
  • Purchase and maintain $3M in General Liability Insurance and $1M in Vehicle Insurance
  • Commit to feature the vehicle with the Ford/Lincoln logos intact and visible
  • Order a California-certified vehicle if they intend to register or use the vehicle primarily in California or any other state that has adopted California emissions standards. Failure to do so may be subject to a state fine.
  • Make vehicles available to Ford or its dealers for display, at the owner's discretion
  • Submit written quarterly status reports for a period of 18 months, as specified in the contract, stating:
  1. Product development
  2. Modifications to the vehicle
  3. Events (including dates, location and type of event)
  4. Media exposure (originals or color copies)
  5. Company advertising featuring vehicle
  6. Additional exposure
  7. A copy of current vehicle registration
  8. E-mail, disc or fax reports will not be accepted

2012 Ford and Lincoln Project Vehicle Program Highlights

The Ford booth at the 2012 SEMA Show will highlight the following vehicles in addition to Ford's existing lineup. The provided links allow you to research these newly announced products for images that may be used for your proposal rendering. Visit www.ford.com or www.lincoln.com.

2013 Ford Fusion – New Vehicle for 2013 MY

  • Revealed in North America as the midsize Fusion sedan, this all-new car signals the next-generation Ford Mondeo for world markets.
  • With seven technologies, including a Lane Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and MyFord Touch, the all-new Ford Fusion shows how Ford is delivering features customers truly want and value.

2013 Ford Mustang – Updated for 2013 MY

  • Gets even more street swagger with a new design and a list of smart features that signal even more technology in the popular pony car.
  • New exterior design with more prominent grille, new hood and new LED signature lighting give the latest Mustang a high-tech look.

2013 Ford Taurus – Updated for 2013 MY

  • The new Ford Taurus is even more refined with better fuel economy, more technology, improved craftsmanship, enhanced design and sharpened driving dynamics.
  • Expected to deliver best-in-class fuel efficiency—at least 31 mpg highway—with the new 2.0L EcoBoost engine, while delivering horsepower comparable to competitive, normally aspirated V6 offerings.

2013 Ford Escape – New Vehicle for 2013 MY

  • The all-new Ford Escape brings America's SUV-loving customers versatility, technology and highway fuel economy all wrapped in a modern design.
  • Features new hands-free technology, including a liftgate with motion-sensing technology and upgraded MyFord Touch system that makes connecting with digital devices on the go even easier.
  • New Escape’s projected fuel economy is up to 5 mpg better than outgoing Escape; 1.6- and 2.0L EcoBoost engines save customers fuel and money.

2013 Ford Flex – Updated for 2013 MY

  • Fans of the Ford Flex have even more to love this year with an upgraded model with a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.
  • Flex features the latest MyFord Touch system, new safety and driver-aid features, such as adaptive cruise control, Ford’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) as well as push-button start, rear inflatable belts, rain-sensing wipers and active park assist.

2013 Lincoln MKS – Updated for 2013 MY

  • The full-size Lincoln MKS sports an updated, sleeker style for 2013 that headlines a range of improvements that rivals more expensive luxury-class contenders.
  • Features better handling, increased power, improved fuel efficiency, additional standard equipment, more refinement and new technologies that help drivers reduce accident risks.

Lincoln MKZ – New Vehicle

  • The MKZ Concept strongly hints at the production model as well as Lincoln’s design future. For a high-resolution image of the MKZ Concept that may be used for your proposal rendering, contact semainfo@ford.com.

Complete information on all Ford and Lincoln vehicles is available at www.ford.com or www.lincoln.com.

Please submit Ford and Lincoln proposals to:

Ford Motor Company
21175 Oakwood Blvd., PDCDC MD579
Dearborn, MI 48124
Attn: Sherry Kollien & Mike Nicopolis
semainfo@ford.com

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 13:49
  Ford Mustang
  Ford project-vehicle requests require two components: an e-mail project summary (due February 21, 2012) and a detailed written proposal (due March 1, 2012).

Ford Motor Co. has announced its Ford and Lincoln project-vehicle program for 2012. The automaker requests that project-vehicle proposals be submitted in two parts, and that all proposals meet the Ford Aftermarket Project Vehicle Program Criteria outlined below.

For more information, contact Sherry Kollien or Mike Nicopolis at semainfo@ford.com.

2012 Ford and Lincoln Project Vehicle Program

Proposal Submission Deadline: March 1, 2012
Award Recipient Notification Date: May 1, 2012

Submit your project-vehicle request in two parts.

Part 1

E-mail one-page project summary: Must be received by February 21, 2012.

Include bullet points for:

  • Vehicle/theme
  • Vehicle modifications
  • New product development
  • Promotional plan
  • Vehicle display location at the 2012 SEMA Show

Part 2

Mail detailed project proposal: Must be received by March 1, 2012.

  • Include details supporting the one-page Project Summary on company letterhead, a color rendering, and past project-vehicle examples.
  • Information on Ford vehicles is available at: www.ford.com
  • Information on Lincoln vehicles is available at: www.lincoln.com

FORD AFTERMARKET PROJECT VEHICLE PROGRAM CRITERIA

Aftermarket companies requesting vehicles should be:

  • Manufacturers or designers/restylers dedicated to supporting new product development
  • Financially capable and willing to spend promotional dollars
  • Actively promoting the vehicle with their product(s) through an established marketing plan
  • Current SEMA member

Aftermarket companies receiving project vehicles must:

  • Feature the vehicle in a booth at the 2012 Las Vegas SEMA Show
  • Register and keep the vehicle in their company name during the entire contract period
  • Purchase and maintain $3M in General Liability Insurance and $1M in Vehicle Insurance
  • Commit to feature the vehicle with the Ford/Lincoln logos intact and visible
  • Order a California-certified vehicle if they intend to register or use the vehicle primarily in California or any other state that has adopted California emissions standards. Failure to do so may be subject to a state fine.
  • Make vehicles available to Ford or its dealers for display, at the owner's discretion
  • Submit written quarterly status reports for a period of 18 months, as specified in the contract, stating:
  1. Product development
  2. Modifications to the vehicle
  3. Events (including dates, location and type of event)
  4. Media exposure (originals or color copies)
  5. Company advertising featuring vehicle
  6. Additional exposure
  7. A copy of current vehicle registration
  8. E-mail, disc or fax reports will not be accepted

2012 Ford and Lincoln Project Vehicle Program Highlights

The Ford booth at the 2012 SEMA Show will highlight the following vehicles in addition to Ford's existing lineup. The provided links allow you to research these newly announced products for images that may be used for your proposal rendering. Visit www.ford.com or www.lincoln.com.

2013 Ford Fusion – New Vehicle for 2013 MY

  • Revealed in North America as the midsize Fusion sedan, this all-new car signals the next-generation Ford Mondeo for world markets.
  • With seven technologies, including a Lane Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and MyFord Touch, the all-new Ford Fusion shows how Ford is delivering features customers truly want and value.

2013 Ford Mustang – Updated for 2013 MY

  • Gets even more street swagger with a new design and a list of smart features that signal even more technology in the popular pony car.
  • New exterior design with more prominent grille, new hood and new LED signature lighting give the latest Mustang a high-tech look.

2013 Ford Taurus – Updated for 2013 MY

  • The new Ford Taurus is even more refined with better fuel economy, more technology, improved craftsmanship, enhanced design and sharpened driving dynamics.
  • Expected to deliver best-in-class fuel efficiency—at least 31 mpg highway—with the new 2.0L EcoBoost engine, while delivering horsepower comparable to competitive, normally aspirated V6 offerings.

2013 Ford Escape – New Vehicle for 2013 MY

  • The all-new Ford Escape brings America's SUV-loving customers versatility, technology and highway fuel economy all wrapped in a modern design.
  • Features new hands-free technology, including a liftgate with motion-sensing technology and upgraded MyFord Touch system that makes connecting with digital devices on the go even easier.
  • New Escape’s projected fuel economy is up to 5 mpg better than outgoing Escape; 1.6- and 2.0L EcoBoost engines save customers fuel and money.

2013 Ford Flex – Updated for 2013 MY

  • Fans of the Ford Flex have even more to love this year with an upgraded model with a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.
  • Flex features the latest MyFord Touch system, new safety and driver-aid features, such as adaptive cruise control, Ford’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) as well as push-button start, rear inflatable belts, rain-sensing wipers and active park assist.

2013 Lincoln MKS – Updated for 2013 MY

  • The full-size Lincoln MKS sports an updated, sleeker style for 2013 that headlines a range of improvements that rivals more expensive luxury-class contenders.
  • Features better handling, increased power, improved fuel efficiency, additional standard equipment, more refinement and new technologies that help drivers reduce accident risks.

Lincoln MKZ – New Vehicle

  • The MKZ Concept strongly hints at the production model as well as Lincoln’s design future. For a high-resolution image of the MKZ Concept that may be used for your proposal rendering, contact semainfo@ford.com.

Complete information on all Ford and Lincoln vehicles is available at www.ford.com or www.lincoln.com.

Please submit Ford and Lincoln proposals to:

Ford Motor Company
21175 Oakwood Blvd., PDCDC MD579
Dearborn, MI 48124
Attn: Sherry Kollien & Mike Nicopolis
semainfo@ford.com

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 13:16

SEMA News-January 2012

HERITAGE
By Drew Hardin
Photo Courtesy Source Interlink Media Archives

Hisself

Charley Card, Hisself, parked in front of his brand-new, 30,000-sq.-ft. speed parts store on Honest Street in Chattanooga
Yes, that is Honest Charley Card, Hisself, parked in front of his brand-new, 30,000-sq.-ft. speed parts store on Honest Street in Chattanooga. Hot Rod’s Ralph Guldahl traveled to Tennessee in late 1970 to profile the legendary retailer, who had recently become the second inductee into SEMA’s Hall of Fame.

“Legendary” might seem too grand a title to hang on a guy whose catalogs and magazine ads were full of goofy drawings and down-home, Southern-tinged humor. But Charley, a life-long car guy, parlayed his local speed shop into a giant, coast-to-coast mail-order business.

He was a true retailing pioneer, one of the first to publish a parts catalog as far back as 1948. He also was among the earliest adopters of computers, proud of the IBM 360 his company used to track inventory and orders when Guldahl visited. And then there was the genius stroke of marketing himself—or Hisself, as Charley would say.

Guldahl explained the name this way: “The addition of ‘Hisself’ to Charley’s nickname was decided on for the simple reason that people, not quite getting that flash of recognition at first sight, often asked: ‘You’re not Honest Charley, are you? Are you Honest Charley hisself?”

The “Honest” moniker came from the days, before the parts business, when Charley ran a restaurant. During World War II, the restaurant was so busy that there was no room on the lunch counter for the cash register. “So I put it outside the door to collect the money for what the people ate,” Charley told Guldahl. “When they came out, I’d ask ’em how much they owed—we didn’t give checks—and they’d tell me and pay me. Customers said, ‘My gosh, Charley, you must be honest.’ An’ that was it. I painted ‘Honest’ real big on a sign atop the restaurant.”

Charley Card passed away in 1974, and the business closed in 1990. In 1998, Corky Coker bought the name and trademarks, and Honest Charley’s was back in business soon after. It’s still based in Chattanooga, right next to Coker Tire’s headquarters, and still sells hot-rod parts, along with musclecar parts, apparel and more. The catalogs are online now, but you can still find Charley, Hisself, on nearly every page.

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 13:16

SEMA News-January 2012

HERITAGE
By Drew Hardin
Photo Courtesy Source Interlink Media Archives

Hisself

Charley Card, Hisself, parked in front of his brand-new, 30,000-sq.-ft. speed parts store on Honest Street in Chattanooga
Yes, that is Honest Charley Card, Hisself, parked in front of his brand-new, 30,000-sq.-ft. speed parts store on Honest Street in Chattanooga. Hot Rod’s Ralph Guldahl traveled to Tennessee in late 1970 to profile the legendary retailer, who had recently become the second inductee into SEMA’s Hall of Fame.

“Legendary” might seem too grand a title to hang on a guy whose catalogs and magazine ads were full of goofy drawings and down-home, Southern-tinged humor. But Charley, a life-long car guy, parlayed his local speed shop into a giant, coast-to-coast mail-order business.

He was a true retailing pioneer, one of the first to publish a parts catalog as far back as 1948. He also was among the earliest adopters of computers, proud of the IBM 360 his company used to track inventory and orders when Guldahl visited. And then there was the genius stroke of marketing himself—or Hisself, as Charley would say.

Guldahl explained the name this way: “The addition of ‘Hisself’ to Charley’s nickname was decided on for the simple reason that people, not quite getting that flash of recognition at first sight, often asked: ‘You’re not Honest Charley, are you? Are you Honest Charley hisself?”

The “Honest” moniker came from the days, before the parts business, when Charley ran a restaurant. During World War II, the restaurant was so busy that there was no room on the lunch counter for the cash register. “So I put it outside the door to collect the money for what the people ate,” Charley told Guldahl. “When they came out, I’d ask ’em how much they owed—we didn’t give checks—and they’d tell me and pay me. Customers said, ‘My gosh, Charley, you must be honest.’ An’ that was it. I painted ‘Honest’ real big on a sign atop the restaurant.”

Charley Card passed away in 1974, and the business closed in 1990. In 1998, Corky Coker bought the name and trademarks, and Honest Charley’s was back in business soon after. It’s still based in Chattanooga, right next to Coker Tire’s headquarters, and still sells hot-rod parts, along with musclecar parts, apparel and more. The catalogs are online now, but you can still find Charley, Hisself, on nearly every page.