By Ashley Reyes

Wheel and tire industry members: Join the SEMA Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) for an informational seminar on “Tire Knowledge 201: Standards for Determining Rim Width and Load Capacity,” January 20, at 12:00 p.m. (PST).

As the third installment of the council’s webinar series, “Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, powered by WTC,” the online seminar will feature two of the industry’s leading tire technical experts as they address the specifics and differences between load index and load ranges, when and where they are applied on the vehicle and how to calculate the correct air pressure for certain applications.

Get your questions answered by participating in this live webinar.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

Asking for a raise or promotion is not always easy. While you may feel that your work is deserving, knowing how to effectively communicate your accomplishments and added value to the company is essential to landing that next promotion.

In the first session of the SEMA Virtual Education “Sharpen Your Soft Skills Series, powered by SBN,” owner of HR Culture Geek Elizabeth Jacobs will help attendees understand the best methods to connect with management to successfully attain salaries, raises and promotions and answer questions live on January 26, at 11:00 a.m. (PST).

The one-hour session “Navigating Career Advancement Conversations” will address how to avoid what can potentially be an uncomfortable conversation, and teach attendees how to be more confident, and focus the discussion on their work and not the finances.

Register here, and stay tuned to SEMA eNews and the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Facebook page for announcements on future sessions from the “Sharpen Your Soft Skills Series, powered by SBN,” including:

• March 23 – Asserting Yourself in the Workplace
• May 25 – Securing Education and Skills Training for Current and Future Positions
• July 27 – Effectively Managing Conflict
• September 28 - Network Your Way to Beneficial Connections

The series is designed to help attendees learn about the interpersonal attributes needed to succeed in the workplace, and provide the opportunity meet and network with new peers in the industry through virtual breakout sessions.

By Ashley Reyes

Prepare for what to expect in 2021 as SEMA Market Research explores the industry’s path in the wake of disruption during an online webinar taking place January 27.

Participants will be able to ask questions and get live answers during the webinar, as presenters Gavin Knapp, SEMA director of Market Research, and Kyle Cheng, SEMA Market Research manager, use detailed data and stats to explore the pandemic and its path moving forward. They will touch on the overall economy (growth, unemployment), with a focus on what the automotive aftermarket industry can realistically anticipate in the new year. Find out what changes are expected to vehicle segment sales and market size.

By attending the seminar and downloading the latest free reports from SEMA Market Research, including “State of the Industry – Fall 2020” and “State of the American Consumer – Fall 2020,” attendees will gain knowledge to help them make better business decisions.

Register for “2021: What Now? Industry Path in the Wake of Disruption.”

By Richard Hail

Representing the innovation and ingenuity of the automotive aftermarket industry, the annual “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special is back and will premiere on A+E Networks’ History Channel, Sunday, February 7, at 9:00 a.m. (EST).

Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Tanner Foust return to their hosting duties as a new group of builders compete against one another for a chance at being named the best of the best and receiving the Top Builder Trophy. Hear from the builders in exclusive interviews, see their builds up close and watch the Top 12 judging.

“With no physical SEMA Show taking place in 2020, the Battle of the Builders competition took place during SEMA360, the automotive industry’s exclusive online trade-only event,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “We made some tough decisions in 2020, but we were determined to go forward with a safe and exciting competition—not only for our builders, but also for our industry.”

The judges, industry experts RJ DeVera (Meguiar’s), Cam Miller (HS Customs), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers) and 2019 Battle of the Builders Champions Mike and Jim Ring (Ringbrothers), were tasked with narrowing down the field of more than 300 vehicles to the Top 10 in each of the four categories—Hot Rod, Sport Compact, Truck/Off-Road and Young Guns—before choosing the Top 12 builds.

The Top 12 competitors judged each other in the final round to determine the top build in each category and then the top build overall. These builders knew what to look for when it came to superior automotive craftsmanship, and they judged their peers accordingly. Experience all the action and cheer on your favorite builds on A+E Networks’ History Channel, Sunday, February 7. Check your local listings for times in your area.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders program, visit the SEMA Battle of the Builders website.

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.

Diablosport Sprint Auto Stop/Start

Diablosport announces the release of its Sprint Auto/Stop Start disabler on late-model Ford F150 trucks. The 3.5L Ecoboost, the 5.0L V8 and the 3.0L Diesel are supported. Plug in the disabler into the OBD-II port and it should stop the Auto Start/Stop feature indefinitely as long as it remains plugged into the vehicle. To revert to stock, simply unplug the disabler.

866-404-614
www.diablosport.com
PN: S1000A

Flowmaster FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust System

Flowmaster introduces its FlowFX cat-back exhaust system for the ‘07–‘14 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The system is manufactured using 409 stainless-steel throughout and features 2.50-in. mandrel bent pipes for better exhaust gas flow, and a FlowFX "straight-through" muffler designed for better sound and maximum performance. The system is finished off with a 3.50-in.-diameter black ceramic-coated 304S stainless-steel tip. The system uses all the existing factory hanger locations and includes installation instructions and all necessary hardware for an easy installation.

866-464-6553
www.holley.com
PN: 717433

Aluminum Swivel Water Necks For Mopar Gen III Hemi Engines

Holley launches its swivel water necks for Mopar Gen III Hemi engines. Since the swivel allows adjustment to accommodate custom radiator hoses, the necks are designed to be ideal for use in engine swaps. The billet aluminum with a black anodized finish is manufactured to prevent corrosion. Choose from outlets with a 45-degree or 90-degree angle (both swivel 360 degrees before bolts are tightened up).

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

Curt Quick Pin Trailer Coupler

Curt Manufacturing introduces its QuickPin trailer coupler. The coupler is engineered to answer the problem of complicated hinging components on a traditional latch-style coupler. The coupler uses a single hitch pin designed to secure the coupler onto the ball. The simple pin design is constructed to provide a secure vehicle-trailer connection.

877-287-8634
www.curtmfg.com
PN: Vary

Oracle GT-R ColorSHIFT

Oracle Lighting announces the launch of the new GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lightning Bolt” RGB+W headlight DRL upgrade for the ‘15–’21 Nissan GT-R. The boards feature a “True White LED” which is designed to create pure white tones, giving the user a crisp white DRL and the ability to instantly switch over for 100%-legal road driving. The kit includes: ColorSHIFT RGB+W DRL PCBs for driver- and passenger-side headlights, constant current LED driver hubs with DRL trigger wires and heavy-duty IP67 wiring adapters.

800-407-5776
www.oraclelights.com
PN: Vary

By SEMA Editors

SEMA is now accepting applications for the 2021 SEMA Memorial Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness Program. Scholarships are available to students pursuing a degree or certification that leads to a career in the automotive industry, and loan forgiveness is available to employees of SEMA-member companies.

“It’s no secret that this past year has had its challenges. Now more than ever, SEMA is available to help support future industry innovators by providing financial assistance to current students and recent graduates who have outstanding student debt,” said SEMA Senior Manager of Professional Development Gary Vigil. “There are thousands of talented, hard-working individuals seeking careers in the automotive aftermarket. The SEMA Scholarship is designed to support this next generation and allow them to focus on their studies and work, rather than be burdened with tuition costs. The Loan Forgiveness program is intended to provide financial assistance to employees of SEMA-member companies with outstanding student loans.”

Awards of up to $5,000 are available to qualified individuals. Complete details and the online application are available until March 1.  

For more information, contact SEMA Project Manager, Member Services Byron Bergmann at 909-378-4859 or byronb@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

With a focus on providing automotive aftermarket professionals with content designed to improve their careers and businesses, the SEMA Virtual Education Program will help members enhance their professional development and include comprehensive presentations, insightful discussions and short videos that teach, inform, inspire and entertain. The virtual and on-demand offerings provide members with the flexibility to participate remotely and at their convenience.

“We are excited to launch this new initiative that will make it easier than ever for members to participate in top-quality, industry-leading education,” said SEMA Senior Manager of Professional Development Gary Vigil. “We’ve heard from our members that education is a top priority for them, and the SEMA program brings the knowledge and information they need to advance their businesses. Introducing a year-round virtual element will make it possible for all members, from builders and engineers, to marketers and sales staff, to participate and prepare for greater success.”

More sessions will be announced throughout the year, and will be placed in tracks, such as professional development, government affairs or market research, to make it easy for members to identify offerings that may be of greatest interest to them. Upcoming sessions include:

SEMA Virtual Education Upcoming Events

*Stay tuned to SEMA eNews as new events are announced weekly.

Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – YEN Live Chat with Jamie Meyer

Track: Industry Talks

Dr. Jamie Meyer joined Performance Racing Industry (PRI) as its president during 2020. He’s since navigated the challenges from the pandemic and introduced a number of new programs and initiatives to help the motorsports industry continue to succeed. Connect with Meyer during the Live Chat to learn how he is able to stay focused amidst the industry’s challenges, what he does to keep his team motivated and why he remains committed to supporting the racing performance industry.

Location: YEN Facebook page

Thursday, January 14, 2021 – Digital Marketing in 2021: What the Winners are Doing

Track: Marketing & Sales

One of the most popular sessions from 2020 will be presented during this simu-live webinar, where presenter and founder of (Un)Common Logic Jim McKinley will participate and answer questions during the event. Find out what companies that are killing it with their digital marketing campaigns have in common, discover what successful digital marketers are doing and get tips for bringing targeted traffic to your website.

Register here.

Tuesday, January 19, 2021 - Everything You Need to Know About the New PPP Program

Track: Legislative & Regulatory

Last month, the $900 billion federal stimulus law that was enacted included $284 billion for first and second Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and a simpler one-page loan forgiveness application form. Learn more about the new law during this informational webinar presented by national columnist and CPA Gene Marks.

Register here.

Wednesday, January 20, 2021 – Tire Knowledge 201: Standards for Determining Rim Width and Load Capacity

Series: Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, powered by WTC

Track:  Industry Segments, powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Wheel and tire professionals are strongly encouraged to tune in to this webinar, where leading tire technical experts will address the specifics of load index and load ranges, when and where they apply, and how to calculate the correct air pressure for certain applications. This 40-minute session will answer all the basic questions and empower sales staff to be able to communicate and effectively sell to consumers.

Register here.

Tuesday, January 26, 2021 – Navigating Career Advancement Conversations

Series: Sharpen Your Soft Skills Series, powered by SBN

Track: Industry Segments, powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

As the new year begins, it’s time to think about your career. Promotions and job advancements are likely top of mind, but asking for a raise or promotion is not always easy. In “Navigating Career Advancement Conversations," owner of HR Culture Geek Elizabeth Jacobs will help attendees understand the best methods to connect with management to successfully attain salaries, raises and promotions. The one-hour session will address how to avoid what can potentially be an uncomfortable conversation, and how to focus the discussion on their work and not the finances.

Register here.

Wednesday, January 27, 2021 – What Now? Industry Path in the Wake of Disruption

Series: SEMA Industry Insights Series

Track: Trends & Research

As aftermarket businesses enter the new year, the state of the industry will be closely watched for new sales trends and market planning. Join SEMA Market Research as they introduce potential scenarios for 2021 and explore the industry’s path in the wake of disruption, the economy, and changes in vehicle segment sales and market size.

Register here.

By SEMA Editors

Image

In partnership with Chevrolet, the SEMA Garage has announced a Measuring Session for the ’20 Chevrolet Corvette C8.

This event will allow SEMA members to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have a close-up experience with two different trim-level vehicles:

’20 Corvette Stingray Convertible and Coupe:

• 6.2L V8
• Eight-Speed Transmission
• Z51 Performance

Please note, this will be an in-person event at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. In order to comply with state and local health guidelines, this event will take place over two separate weeks with scheduled appointments. Due to high demand, appointments will be time limited.

• Week 1: January 19–22
• Week 2: January 25–29

All registered attendees will be required to take an initial temperature check, wear face coverings and gloves, as well as practice social distancing during their appointment. The vehicle will be sanitized between each appointment.

Register now!

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Efforts to enact SEMA-supported provisions to provide businesses with liability protection from COVID-19 related lawsuits were successful in 2020 in at least 16 states. Many more states are considering these protections as state legislatures begin to convene their 2021 legislative sessions and consider what additional measures should be put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

States that have already passed liability protection for businesses include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah and Wyoming. These states either enacted legislation or their Governors took executive action in 2020. In Pennsylvania, Governor Tom Wolf vetoed legislation that would have shielded businesses exposure from most COVID related lawsuits.

Looking forward, state legislators and business leaders in Florida, Indiana, Maine, Missouri and other states have expressed their support for passing liability protection in 2021. Most of the provisions that have been enacted to date require companies to have followed certain health protocols for maintaining a safe operation and do not shield a business from a gross negligence claim.

At the federal level, a SEMA-supported measure has not yet been enacted despite attempts to include the provision within the $900 billion coronavirus stimulus plan enacted on December 23, 2020. Lawmakers will continue to pursue a federal approach to the issue as additional legislation is considered to address the pandemic.

For more information, contact Caroline Fletcher at carolinef@sema.org.

Jeep has been promising fans of the Wrangler (JL) a half-door solution since the model launched back in November 2017 at the L.A. Auto Show. At the initial unveiling, Jeep showed off a pair of “conceptual” half-doors with a plexiglass window in them and promising the public they would be available in the ’19 model year. However, a few months later, Jeep introduced the Jeep Jeepster Concept showing a pair of half-doors like the ones shown in previous spyshots (in October). At the time, Jeep said that the plexiglass ones would not be available for sale; however, the ones found on the Jeepster Concept were another “conceptual” item.

Fast forward to this year, the Jeep brand showed off the 6.4L HEMI V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept. It featured another set of “conceptual” half-door, but this time, they were showcased on a four-door model. This is a first look at a production four-door model in Rubicon duds.

With the added pressure from the upcoming Ford Bronco, it appears that Jeep is looking at bringing a half-door option to the market. Unlike the half-door design in the past generation (Wrangler JK), they have doors that feature fabric windows with a large opening in the middle and front quarter windows. These appear to be the same design showcased on the Rubicon 392 Concept and is the first time we have seen half-doors on a Wrangler (JL) other than the unveiling and the concept vehicles.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde