By SEMA Washington, D.C, Staff

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is not imposing tariffs or taking any other specific action at this time with respect to its Section 301 investigation of unfair currency valuation by Vietnam. The USTR issued a report that finds “Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices including excessive foreign exchange market interventions and other related actions, taken in their totality, are unreasonable and burden or restrict U.S. commerce.” However, the USTR decided to defer to the incoming Biden administration on further action.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The COVID-19 relief bill signed into law on December 27, 2020, provided $284 billion in new funding for the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) for both first and second loans. The covered period for all PPP loans was extended to March 31, 2021. For second loans, businesses need to have suffered a 25% revenue loss during the pandemic.

Loan applications for the new PPP program are now being accepted through SBA-approved lenders (banks and community financial institutions). The SBA has two webpages for more information:

• First Draw PPP Loans
• Second Draw PPP Loans

The SBA is creating a streamlined loan forgiveness application for recipients of first and second loans up to $150,000. It is expected to be available this month.

SEMA recently hosted a webinar entitled “Everything You Need to Know About the New PPP Program” presented by national columnist and CPA Gene Marks. Click here [to be supplied] for the webinar recording and PowerPoint presentation.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

A recently enacted federal law, the “Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021” (Public Law No: 116-260), includes a provision to create a $15 billion program to provide grants to live entertainment and performing arts venues. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is currently working to craft regulations to implement Sec. 324, “GRANTS FOR SHUTTERED VENUE OPERATORS,” of the new law. The agency needs to hear from racetracks about the importance of including outdoor entertainment venues within the entities that are eligible to apply for grants. Many racetracks have experienced significant declines in revenue as a result of complying with COVID restrictions on entertainment venues.”

If you own or are employed by a racetrack or motorsports facility, please sign a letter to the SBA. For additional information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By Richard Hail

Since 2014 the SEMA Battle of the Builders has provided a platform for the industry’s best builders to flex their muscle. Every year the competition brings out the best in products, innovation, and builds. It is the annual tradition where top builders from the automotive aftermarket industry come together to show off custom, one-of-a-kind builds never before seen.    

Hosts Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Tanner Foust take you on a journey behind the scenes of the competition to see what it takes to create a SEMA-worthy build. The stakes are higher and the competition this year is tougher. Which one of these top builders will be crowned the next SEMA Battle of the Builders Champion?

Narrowing the field from more than 300 vehicles to the Top 10 in each of four categories is no easy task. Get acquainted with our guest judges and find out who makes it to the Hot Rod, Import/Sport Compact, Truck/Off-Road and Young Guns categories before the builders choose the Top 12 builds overall.
Did you come ready for battle? These builders did. Catch the annual “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special on A+E Networks’ History Channel on Sunday, February 7, at 9:00 a.m. (EST). Check your local listings for times in your area.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders program, visit www.semabotb.com.

By Fredy Ramirez

SEMA eNews highlights new products from industry companies each week. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

Clayton Machine Works
Gated Shifter

Clayton Machine Works announces the release of its gated shifter for automatic transmissions. The shifter is designed to allow for almost any shifter lever and knob combination and features a neutral safety switch. The gated, side detent feature is constructed to eliminate the need for a shifter button. The shifters are available as complete assemblies (with lever and knob) or can be purchased separately to work with aftermarket levers that include bolt spacing mounting scheme such as Tremec-style shifter levers.  

865-824-9778
www.claytonmachine.com
PN: Vary

American Powertrain
TREMEC TKX-5

American Powertrain introduces its Pro-Fit 5-speed system for classic Corvettes featuring the all-new Tremec TKX 5-spd. The kit is designed to fit vintage Corvettes like an original GM manual transmission with the correct shift position and tunnel fit. The new TKX features a streamlined case engineered for improved fitment with zero tunnel modifications. The system features the Tremec TKX transmission with 600 lb.-ft of torque capacity with shifts up to 8,000 rpm.

931-646-4836
www.americanpowertrain.com
PN: Vary

Mac’s Tie Downs
Monkey Face

Mac’s Tie Downs announces the release of its Mac’s Monkey Face: a drop-in, stake pocket multi-mount designed to receive a variety of tie-down hardware. The design is laser cut from steel and welded onto a steel tube and rated to 10,000-lb. minimum breaking strength. The mount can be purchased with or without the new Low-Profile Lashing Winch. It accepts 2-in. tie-down webbing and allows for tensioning from either side.

800-666-1586
www.macscustomtiedowns.com
PN: 712000

BOLT Lock
Recovery Hook

BOLT Lock introduces its swivel Locking Recovery Hook. The hook is manufactured from 6061-T6 aluminum and features a 10,000 lb. capacity and is designed to be 99-percent faster than other ¾-in. shackle-type hooks. The top portion does not need to be unscrewed in order to loop the tow strap. The tow strap slides into place over the hook. The hook is engineered to prevent the pin used to attach the hook to the vehicle from moving freely when locked. When the ignition key is inserted into the cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key.

844-972-7547
www.boltlock.com
PN: Vary

Edge
Insight CTS3

Edge Products announces the release of its digital gauge monitor for the ’98 –‘05 Dodge Ram with the Cummins diesel. The 3rd-generation 5-in. monitor features a full-color capacitive touchscreen display. The monitor includes a high-speed processor designed to provide easy swipe gestures and navigation throughout the product.

888-360-3343
www.edgeproducts.com
PN: 84130-3

Hooker Blackheart
Premium Engine Mount Brackets

Hooker Blackheart has launched its engine mounting brackets to allow GM LS or Gen-V LT engines to be installed in the ‘73–‘87 C10/C20 Trucks. The modular design of these brackets are constructed to allow engine changes from LS to LT with a change to the clamshell components only. The same mounting brackets, polyurethane inserts, and crossmembers fit both LS and LT engines.

866-464-6553
www.holley.com
PN: BHS540

By Ashley Reyes

Your online reputation can make or break your business. The challenge is that people are more motivated to post online when they’re unhappy rather than when they’re happy. So how should businesses respond when they receive negative feedback? And how can businesses create a process for acquiring more positive reviews?

During “How to Protect Your Brand’s Online Reputation,” best-selling business author Corey Perlman of Impact Social Media Inc. will present top strategies for online reputation management. Taking place February 9, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. (PST), the 45-minute session will cover best practices for converting satisfied customers into online endorsers of your brand, the basics of digital brand management, and how you can create a process for enhancing positive feedback.

As a simu-live webinar, Perlman will be available to answer your questions live and leave you more knowledgeable and inspired to take your online reputation to the next level.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Loan Forgiveness Applications are now available at www.sema.org/scholarships. The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program issues thousands of dollars annually to industry members who are paying off student loans.

If you work for a SEMA member company and have an outstanding student loan, we invite you to apply. It doesn’t matter if the loan was in connection to a degree or certification from a college, university, or tech school, SEMA wants to support you in your career efforts.

The deadline for application submissions is March 1, 2021.

For more information, contact Byron Bergmann at 909-378-4859 or byronb@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Ted Schlaack is the latest SEMA Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) member in the council’s volunteer spotlight. Schlaak is a WTC select committee volunteer, and franchise business consultant at RimTyme Custom Wheels—a rent-to-own wheel and tire concept that offers wheels and tires for trucks and Jeeps, as well as the latest custom wheels for passenger vehicles.

SEMA: What led you to obtaining a career in the wheel and tire industry?

Ted Schlaack: I was on board as a franchise consultant for one of our TV and appliance operators when he decided to start renting wheels and tires. By doing extensive research, working in the store and closely with the franchisee, we developed the first operations manual. Now 38 stores later, RimTyme Custom Wheels and Tires is one of the largest rent-to-own wheel companies in the United States.

SEMA: How has being a WTC volunteer or member impacted your professional career?

TS: It has enhanced my knowledge of the products, equipment, people and the industry as a whole. I’m amazed at the depth of the industry and want to see our brand continue to dominate the RTO segment.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the wheel and tire segment?

TS: Hire individuals who have a passion for the segment and love working in the wheel and tire industry. Dive in and get your hands dirty by working on the front line, in the shop and doing the job.

SEMA: Where can we find you on a Saturday?

TS: When I'm not in the woods hunting, I'm on my Harley, mountain bike, or in my Gladiator.

By SEMA Editors

The following important exhibitor deadlines and key dates have been set in preparation for the in-person 2021 SEMA Show. Last week, SEMA Show management announced the launch of the 2021 Exhibitor Space Rental Agreement, which is due May 7. Companies that reserve space by the deadline are eligible for the year's Early Space Selection, where exhibitors select their booth location at the Show.

With dates set, exhibitors can make preparations to invest in the SEMA Show with confidence and reconnect with the industry in November.

Here are essential deadlines for the 2021 SEMA Show:

• Exhibit Space Reservation Application Deadline: Friday, May 7
• Early Space Selection: Monday, June 7–Wednesday, June 23
• Full Refund Cancellation Deadline: Wednesday, September 1
• Show Dates: Tuesday, November 2–Friday, November 5

For additional information about exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/exhibitor.

By SEMA Editors

Platinum status represents SDC manufacturers that have achieved the pinnacle of product data by putting in the extra effort to provide resellers with the most complete data sets available.

AutoMeter
Fuel Bridge

The new Fuel Bridge from AutoMeter allows you to easily install AutoMeter fuel level gauges in nearly any vehicle regardless of the resistance range. This product wires between any AutoMeter fuel level gauge and stock or aftermarket fuel level sending units. With its compact size, LED display, and easy three push button operation, the Fuel Bridge is a breeze to install on any application.

The AutoMeter Fuel Bridge comes complete with a low fuel level warning indicator (via LED or relay) and is pre-programmed for the following resistance ranges: 240/33, 0/90, 0/30, 16/158, 73/10 (linear and non-linear), 10/180, and 40/250. A configurable option anywhere between 0-1000 ohms further expands compatibility.

www.autometer.com
PN: 9109

DU-HA
Vehicle Storage for '02-'21 Ram Quad Cab/Crew Cab

Every DU-HA is custom designed to fit a particular model of truck. The Dodge Ram Quad Cab/Crew Cab model 02-2021 is designed to fit underneath your pre-existing back seats. It's constructed from heavy duty polyethylene and comes with a lifetime warranty. If your truck came equipped with a metal trays or a lid system under the back seat, you will need to remove the trays/lid prior to installing your DU-HA. These trays are interchangeable, so you will be able to re-install them later if needed. This DU-HA holds 2 rifles or shotguns, 1 with scope.

www.du-ha.com
PN: 30016

FST Performance
FlowMax RPM500 Fuel Filter System

As one of the most popular, bestselling fuel filter systems in the marine market, this FloMax filter system is the “best” at fuel filtering efficiency and high flow in the industry. Filtering down to 3 microns, flowing at 300 gph, and separating 99% of free water, this fuel filter system is the complete package.

In the high horsepower, fuel injected engine packages of today along with ethanol-based fuels; low micron filtering (3 times or 70% better than most competitors), high flow and water separation are a must. Featuring multiple (2 Inlet and 2 Outlet), -12 ORB/AN ports makes for easy installation and/or options to add accessories like fuel pressure senders.

Also, with the FloMax spin-on type of filter, it makes for easy & quick changing of the filter; with nothing to clean out which eliminates the chance for fuel system contamination.

www.fstperformance.com
PN: RPM500

HushMat
Complete Vehicle Insulation Kit

HushMat’s '66-'77 Ford Bronco sound-deadening and thermal-insulation material is designed to make every type of vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable. HushMat is an-easy-to install, USA-made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface. No tools, glues and or special equipment are needed to install HushMat. Simply peel and stick.

HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a year-, make- and model-specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers. HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed. HushMat takes the guess work out of, “how much material do I need?”  

www.hushmat.com
PN: 62866P

HushMat
Complete Vehicle Insulation Kit

HushMat’s '71-'74 Dodge Charger sound-deadening and thermal-insulation material is designed to make every type of vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable. HushMat is an easy-to-install, USA-made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface. No tools, glues and or special equipment are needed to install HushMat.  Simply peel and stick. HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a year-, make- and model-specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers.

HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed. HushMat takes the guess work out of, "how much material do I need?”

www.hushmat.com
PN: 66271P

Rampage
TrailView Soft Top

The TrailView Soft Top from Rampage combines the features of the Rampage Frameless Trail Top, plus an easy-to-use, fold-back sunroof. The flexibility of the TrailView provides two tops in one, as the full top also converts to an open-air safari top, which can easily be opened from inside the Jeep.

The fastback style offers improved aerodynamics and a quieter ride than factory bow-style tops. The new styling also features an overhead storage panel for the rear and side windows, which allow the windows to remain with the Jeep while also keeping them protected. The top is constructed of a durable 28 oz. vinyl with tinted windows, and includes all necessary hardware (door surrounds, header channel, tailgate bar) to convert from a hard top.

www.rampageproducts.com
PN: 139435

Oracle Lighting
Dynamic ColorSHIFT Headlight DRL Halo Kit 18-21 Ford Mustang

Oracle Lighting is proud to announce the launch of its new Dynamic ColorSHIFT Halo Kit with DRL Upgrade for '18-'21 model year Ford Mustangs. Now available with an MSRP of $299.99, the kit includes unique standard features, such as sequential FLOW turn signals, true white DRL mode, and smartphone control, all in one package.

“Dynamic ColorSHIFT LEDs are individually addressable which unlock some very unique programming opportunities for these lights,” explained Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development.

“The Dynamic features allow the user to run multiple moving color patterns through the LEDs, creating a vivid eye-catching lighting effect. The color-changing motion flow effects are conveniently controlled through a free smartphone app, and the system features more than 200 pre-programmed moving patterns as well as static color control and color wheel.”

The integrated controller features both DRL and turn indicator inputs. The switchback LED indicator features Oracle Lighting’s exclusive Dynamic FLOW turn signal effect. The white DRL trigger automatically switches the LEDs to pure white when the vehicle is started.

The kit includes:

• (6) Dynamic DRL Circuit Boards
• (2) Dynamic Projector Halo Rings
• Bluetooth Multi-function Controller

Having celebrated its 20-year anniversary in 2019, Metairie, LA-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today's world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

www.oraclelights.com
PN: 1446-332

ZyBar
32 oz. Midnight Black Finish

ZyBar 32 oz. Midnight Black Finish high-temperature, heat-dissipation coating is designed to reduce radiant heat and reduce under hood temperatures. It offers outstanding corrosion resistance, provides lasting color stability under the most extreme engine conditions and extends the life of your components.

ZyBar is rated to internal temperatures well in excess of 2000 F. ZyBar is a single-component, durable polymer coating that far outperforms ceramic paints, wraps and heat tapes.

ZyBar is spray-applied inside and outside the component. ZyBar treats manifolds, headers, turbo housings, exhaust, brakes and intakes. ZyBar is a thin .001-.0025 film coating that is either oven-cured (2 hours @ 450 F) or air-cured (120 hours).  

www.zycoat.com
PN: 11032

ZyBar
32 oz. Cast Finish

ZyBar 32 oz. Cast Finish high-temperature, heat-dissipation coating is designed to reduce radiant heat and under hood temperatures. It offers outstanding corrosion resistance, provides lasting color stability under the most extreme engine conditions and extends the life of your components.

ZyBar is rated to internal temperatures well in excess of 2000 F. ZyBar is a single component, durable polymer coating that far outperforms ceramic paints, wraps and heat tapes. ZyBar is spray-applied inside and outside the component. ZyBar treats manifolds, headers, turbo housings, exhausts, brakes and intakes. ZyBar is a thin .001-.0025 film coating that is either oven-cured (2 hours @ 450 F) or air-cured (120 hours).  

www.zycoat.com
PN: 13032