By Della Domingo

Instead of staying at a hotel and packing comfortable shoes, buyers will want to prepare for SEMA360 by setting up their work stations with a comfortable chair and fully charged computer. Taking place 100 percent online, SEMA360 is not meant to be a replacement for the in-person SEMA Show that takes place in Las Vegas.

SEMA360 is, however, a great option for manufacturers and buyers looking for a trade-only environment that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, educational seminars, and bringing industry professionals together to do business. 

Here are some similarities and differences between the SEMA Show and SEMA360.

Manufacturers

SEMA Show: Manufacturers exhibit in physical booths that are eye-catching and often include booth vehicles and product demonstrations. 

SEMA360: Manufacturers will have Showcase pages where images and videos of projects vehicles and product demonstrations will be available. Manufacturers will also have staff on hand during recommended hours for live interactions that can be moved into private meetings.

New Products

SEMA Show: Filled with thousands of the newest products in the automotive industry, the SEMA Show New Products Showcase is the No. 1 destination at the in-person event. It helps buyers and media quickly and easily identify the best new products that are relevant to their businesses. 

SEMA360: Attendees will enjoy the same great features and benefits of New Products Showcase. Products will be included and include photos and details that can be searched and sorted by market segment.

Feature Vehicles

SEMA Show: Feature vehicles are the eye candy of the SEMA Show, with dazzling sports cars and oversized trucks on display throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SEMA360: Hundreds of feature vehicles will be included in the Builder Showcase, where attendees will find photos and videos highlighting the products in action.  

Seminars

SEMA Show: The education program is a pivotal component of the SEMA Show, with seminars available to help all attendees with the most challenging issues and topics.  

SEMA360: The world is changing faster than ever, and staying up-to-date on new strategies and skills is more important than ever. The SEMA360 seminar program includes more than 30 sessions that will educate, motivate and inspire the industry to work smarter and succeed.

Connections

SEMA Show: With industry professionals from all over the world gathered in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show is the best place for manufacturers, buyers and media to connect and network. From the trade show floor to the restaurants and night life in Las Vegas, there are endless opportunities for building business relationships. 

SEMA360: Through private online sessions, manufacturers can connect with buyers or media through SEMA360. There will also be special receptions for larger groups to network and celebrate the industry.

Travel

SEMA Show: For the majority of the industry, attending the SEMA Show requires significant travel and a hotel room.  

SEMA360: Participation is possible from anywhere that has Internet access.

Packing

SEMA Show: Packing for the SEMA Show likely includes comfortable shoes, Chapstick (to ward off the Vegas dry air), a bottle of water, SEMA Show badge and business cards.

SEMA360: No packing necessary, but a dedicated work area with a comfortable chair, fully charged computer, blue light glasses, water and snacks along with the login credentials.

Trade-only

SEMA Show: The SEMA Show is a trade-only event that is not open to the general public. Participants must be employed in the automotive specialty equipment industry.

SEMA360: SEMA360 is focused on the same B2B value and is open only to those working in the automotive specialty equipment industry. The focus of SEMA360 is on doing business and the general public does not qualify to participate.  

Because SEMA360 is a B2B event, attendees may be required to submit qualifying materials and are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays.

Visit www.sema360.com to register today.

By Della Domingo

Instead of staying at a hotel and packing comfortable shoes, buyers will want to prepare for SEMA360 by setting up their work stations with a comfortable chair and fully charged computer. Taking place 100 percent online, SEMA360 is not meant to be a replacement for the in-person SEMA Show that takes place in Las Vegas.

SEMA360 is, however, a great option for manufacturers and buyers looking for a trade-only environment that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, educational seminars, and bringing industry professionals together to do business. 

Here are some similarities and differences between the SEMA Show and SEMA360.

Manufacturers

SEMA Show: Manufacturers exhibit in physical booths that are eye-catching and often include booth vehicles and product demonstrations. 

SEMA360: Manufacturers will have Showcase pages where images and videos of projects vehicles and product demonstrations will be available. Manufacturers will also have staff on hand during recommended hours for live interactions that can be moved into private meetings.

New Products

SEMA Show: Filled with thousands of the newest products in the automotive industry, the SEMA Show New Products Showcase is the No. 1 destination at the in-person event. It helps buyers and media quickly and easily identify the best new products that are relevant to their businesses. 

SEMA360: Attendees will enjoy the same great features and benefits of New Products Showcase. Products will be included and include photos and details that can be searched and sorted by market segment.

Feature Vehicles

SEMA Show: Feature vehicles are the eye candy of the SEMA Show, with dazzling sports cars and oversized trucks on display throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SEMA360: Hundreds of feature vehicles will be included in the Builder Showcase, where attendees will find photos and videos highlighting the products in action.  

Seminars

SEMA Show: The education program is a pivotal component of the SEMA Show, with seminars available to help all attendees with the most challenging issues and topics.  

SEMA360: The world is changing faster than ever, and staying up-to-date on new strategies and skills is more important than ever. The SEMA360 seminar program includes more than 30 sessions that will educate, motivate and inspire the industry to work smarter and succeed.

Connections

SEMA Show: With industry professionals from all over the world gathered in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show is the best place for manufacturers, buyers and media to connect and network. From the trade show floor to the restaurants and night life in Las Vegas, there are endless opportunities for building business relationships. 

SEMA360: Through private online sessions, manufacturers can connect with buyers or media through SEMA360. There will also be special receptions for larger groups to network and celebrate the industry.

Travel

SEMA Show: For the majority of the industry, attending the SEMA Show requires significant travel and a hotel room.  

SEMA360: Participation is possible from anywhere that has Internet access.

Packing

SEMA Show: Packing for the SEMA Show likely includes comfortable shoes, Chapstick (to ward off the Vegas dry air), a bottle of water, SEMA Show badge and business cards.

SEMA360: No packing necessary, but a dedicated work area with a comfortable chair, fully charged computer, blue light glasses, water and snacks along with the login credentials.

Trade-only

SEMA Show: The SEMA Show is a trade-only event that is not open to the general public. Participants must be employed in the automotive specialty equipment industry.

SEMA360: SEMA360 is focused on the same B2B value and is open only to those working in the automotive specialty equipment industry. The focus of SEMA360 is on doing business and the general public does not qualify to participate.  

Because SEMA360 is a B2B event, attendees may be required to submit qualifying materials and are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays.

Visit www.sema360.com to register today.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a controversial Executive Order this week instructing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to draft regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the state be zero-emissions by 2035.

Once drafted, CARB’s proposed regulations will be subject to a lengthy regulatory process, including legal, economic, and environmental analyses, public comment and hearings. The Governor’s order is also expected to face numerous legal challenges from opponents.

“SEMA is deeply disappointed in Governor Newsom’s decision to escalate his ongoing feud with the Trump Administration at the expense of the consumer and California’s small businesses,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government and legal affairs. “SEMA will work with the industry and enthusiasts in opposing the Governor’s proposal on all fronts.”

According to the California Energy Commission, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) currently make up approximately 2% of the over 28-million vehicles in use in the Golden State. It is estimated that at least 8% of new vehicle sales in California will be ZEVs and plug-in hybrids by 2025.

California’s ZEV program falls within the state’s greenhouse gas rule that is being challenged in court by the Trump Administration. The federal government is seeking to withdraw EPA recognition of the California rule under the Clean Air Act because it effectively establishes fuel economy standards, which are the sole jurisdiction of the federal government. The challenge could eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a controversial Executive Order this week instructing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to draft regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the state be zero-emissions by 2035.

Once drafted, CARB’s proposed regulations will be subject to a lengthy regulatory process, including legal, economic, and environmental analyses, public comment and hearings. The Governor’s order is also expected to face numerous legal challenges from opponents.

“SEMA is deeply disappointed in Governor Newsom’s decision to escalate his ongoing feud with the Trump Administration at the expense of the consumer and California’s small businesses,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government and legal affairs. “SEMA will work with the industry and enthusiasts in opposing the Governor’s proposal on all fronts.”

According to the California Energy Commission, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) currently make up approximately 2% of the over 28-million vehicles in use in the Golden State. It is estimated that at least 8% of new vehicle sales in California will be ZEVs and plug-in hybrids by 2025.

California’s ZEV program falls within the state’s greenhouse gas rule that is being challenged in court by the Trump Administration. The federal government is seeking to withdraw EPA recognition of the California rule under the Clean Air Act because it effectively establishes fuel economy standards, which are the sole jurisdiction of the federal government. The challenge could eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a controversial Executive Order this week instructing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to draft regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the state be zero-emissions by 2035.

Once drafted, CARB’s proposed regulations will be subject to a lengthy regulatory process, including legal, economic, and environmental analyses, public comment and hearings. The Governor’s order is also expected to face numerous legal challenges from opponents.

“SEMA is deeply disappointed in Governor Newsom’s decision to escalate his ongoing feud with the Trump Administration at the expense of the consumer and California’s small businesses,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government and legal affairs. “SEMA will work with the industry and enthusiasts in opposing the Governor’s proposal on all fronts.”

According to the California Energy Commission, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) currently make up approximately 2% of the over 28-million vehicles in use in the Golden State. It is estimated that at least 8% of new vehicle sales in California will be ZEVs and plug-in hybrids by 2025.

California’s ZEV program falls within the state’s greenhouse gas rule that is being challenged in court by the Trump Administration. The federal government is seeking to withdraw EPA recognition of the California rule under the Clean Air Act because it effectively establishes fuel economy standards, which are the sole jurisdiction of the federal government. The challenge could eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

NAIAS Moves Reimagined Show to September 2021 and Beyond

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has announced it will move its reimagined indoor and outdoor show, originally planned for summer 2021, to September 28–October 9, 2021. NAIAS officials say the show is teed up to be a global powerhouse of current product and next-generation mobility combined with immersive brand activations and product engagement for both the international media and the public.

NAIAS will remain a fall show going forward after the inaugural event in September 2021. Show dates have already been secured with TCF Center for the next three years. NAIAS organizers secured dates towards the end of the month, in part, to be mindful of the new IAA in Munich, which is scheduled for the first full week in September.

NAIAS officials also plan to expand the show’s marketing reach, drawing additional show visitors from beyond the region and state. The campaign will emphasize that consumers can preview all of the latest new cars and trucks headed to dealership showrooms while also enjoying Detroit and Michigan in the fall.

The September 2021 show will include the same product experiences that were originally planned for the June show, including dynamic displays and experiential ride-and-drives. The NAIAS campus will include product and technology activations both inside TCF Center and throughout the city.

NAIAS will continue to host seven shows in one: Motor Bella, The Gallery, Press Preview, AutoMobili-D, Industry Preview, Charity Preview and Public Show.

Additionally, NAIAS’ monthly Q’d Up Mobility series will provide a glimpse into what the 2021 show has queued up for guests—an idea that was born out of interest and support after the cancelation of the 2020 show.

AACF Launches Topgolf Tournament November 5

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has announced its plans to launch its first Topgolf Top Contender National Championship on November 5, 2020.

AACF board president Lynn Parker said, “When the SEMA and AAPEX trade shows were cancelled in the interest of public safety, AACF made the decision to cancel its largest annual fundraising event, the Bob Schoeberl Memorial Golf Tournament. While this was the right thing to do, we needed to find a way for aftermarket industry employees to connect and have fun as an industry family, and raise funds to assist those in need during this challenging time.”

AACF’s first Topgolf Top Contender National Championship will be an integrated tournament that allows teams to compete in real-time via 60 Topgolf locations throughout North America. The Top Contender format increases the competitive fun, as teams from all locations will compete in real time in the same game. Live leaderboards will be displayed in each time zone starting at 2:00 p.m. (PST) on November 5.

Teams of six players each will compete against other teams to score points by hitting micro-chipped golf balls at giant dartboard-like targets. The more accurate the shot, the more points each team will earn. A national champion will be crowned at the end of the tournament. Deadline for registration is November 3.

Champion Oil has announced a stand-alone blog that aims to become a complete resource center for diesel enthusiasts.

Champion Launches Digital Resource Center for Performance Diesel Enthusiasts

Champion Oil has announced a stand-alone blog that aims to become a complete resource center for diesel enthusiasts. Champion’s new blog aims to establish itself as a vital resource for diesel performance enthusiasts by becoming a hub connecting enthusiasts to other digital platforms, such as diesel forums, press releases, email, websites, RSS feeds and other social-media platforms. The Blue Flame Diesel Blog also has links that provide real-time information on such subjects as diesel fuel prices, truck stop locations, technical information, torque specs, how to become a Champion Oil distributor, real-time crude oil prices, diesel seminars, online purchases and locations where to buy.

Meyer Distributing Opens New Sales Office in Pennsylvania

Meyer Distributing has announced the addition of a Pennsylvania-based office. The new location expands Meyer's inside sales team with the addition of Margaret Edwards, Frank Arvonio, Randy Bowers, Jason Williams, Jack Marchetti and Rich Mackonis.

Kyle Fischer

Lubrication Specialties Inc. Promotes Kyle Fischer to Director of Branding and Promotions
 
Lubrication Specialties Inc. (LSI) President Brett Tennar has announced the immediate promotion of Kyle Fischer to director of branding and promotions. Fischer joined LSI in 2017 as director of marketing followed by a promotion in 2019 to director of sales. He has quickly risen through the ranks taking on increased responsibility and senior leadership roles to build awareness and sales of the company’s performance automotive aftermarket brand—Hot Shot’s Secret. A self-professed gearhead with a passion for anything race related, Fischer has parlayed his 20-plus years of professional experience in the automotive aftermarket to grow the brand to more than 30 performance products for gas and diesel vehicles to reach across multiple markets.

As director of branding and promotions, a newly created position, Fischer will be responsible for working closely with the director of marketing and director of sales to develop positioning for Hot Shot’s Secret-branded products for each market. He will also coordinate and implement promotional activities to select targeted audiences that ensure a consistent brand image. He will have input on all advertising buys, content, social media, race events, brand ambassadors, product content, promotions and trade show activity, and will work closely with the company’s key leadership to increase brand awareness and product sales in the United States and abroad.

Garrett Motion Acquired by KPS Capital Partners

Garrett Motion has entered an agreement for KPS Capital Partners to purchase its business, subject to court approval and customary closing conditions. Garrett also announced the company had launched a debt restructuring process through a Chapter 11 filing with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New York. Garrett intends to operate without interruption during the process, according to the company.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.