By SEMA Editors

Next week, Ford will introduce an all-new Bronco brand, a new family of Built Wild SUVs, U.S. off-road driving schools and a dedicated community for owner and enthusiast engagement.

The overall theme of the Bronco’s interior consists of various upright elements, including the dashboard, pillars and center stack. A large screen, potentially measuring in at 12 in., sits front and center. Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Next week, Ford will introduce an all-new Bronco brand, a new family of Built Wild SUVs, U.S. off-road driving schools and a dedicated community for owner and enthusiast engagement. The new vehicles have been keenly anticipated by aftermarket manufacturers, who sense a fresh opportunity in the marketplace.

The all-new Bronco brand is comprised of a Bronco two-door, first-ever Bronco four-door model and an all-new rugged, small SUV—the Bronco Sport. All will have 4x4 capability as standard equipment. Ford will reveal the all-new models July 13, at 8:00 p.m. (EDT) across Disney network channels National Geographic, ESPN and ABC. The Bronco reservation system will open simultaneously, allowing customers to reserve a new Bronco with a $100 refundable deposit.

According to Ford, the new Broncos are designed to be superior off-road vehicles, based on three “Built Wild” principles:

• Built Wild Extreme Durability Testing – These elevated Bronco torture tests ensure toughness across thousands of lab, proving ground and real-world extreme challenges in the toughest and harshest climates. 
• Built Wild Capability – Confidence to go over any-type of terrain (G.O.A.T.), provided by standard 4x4 and an exclusive terrain management system, plus unique Bronco-variant architectures with class-leading levels of capability and suspension technology.
• Built Wild Innovative Design – Broncos are the future of off-roading and deliver off-road ingenuity, new design innovations coupled with heritage-inspired DNA, plus new-levels of personalization that can flatter the novice and challenge the expert adventure seeker.

To support the new brand, Ford envisions a range of lifestyle experiences, including Off-Roadeo outdoor adventure playgrounds in four U.S. locations starting next year. An independent online community is also planned to connect current and future Bronco owners, accessible at www.thebronconation.com. Beyond that, the Bronco brand continues building its off-road racing legacy as Official Vehicle of King of the Hammers, ULTRA4 Series. Bronco also is the official SUV of SCORE-International—one of many events key for proving out the vehicle’s capability and connecting with Bronco brand influencers.

By SEMA Editors

Next week, Ford will introduce an all-new Bronco brand, a new family of Built Wild SUVs, U.S. off-road driving schools and a dedicated community for owner and enthusiast engagement.

The overall theme of the Bronco’s interior consists of various upright elements, including the dashboard, pillars and center stack. A large screen, potentially measuring in at 12 in., sits front and center. Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Next week, Ford will introduce an all-new Bronco brand, a new family of Built Wild SUVs, U.S. off-road driving schools and a dedicated community for owner and enthusiast engagement. The new vehicles have been keenly anticipated by aftermarket manufacturers, who sense a fresh opportunity in the marketplace.

The all-new Bronco brand is comprised of a Bronco two-door, first-ever Bronco four-door model and an all-new rugged, small SUV—the Bronco Sport. All will have 4x4 capability as standard equipment. Ford will reveal the all-new models July 13, at 8:00 p.m. (EDT) across Disney network channels National Geographic, ESPN and ABC. The Bronco reservation system will open simultaneously, allowing customers to reserve a new Bronco with a $100 refundable deposit.

According to Ford, the new Broncos are designed to be superior off-road vehicles, based on three “Built Wild” principles:

• Built Wild Extreme Durability Testing – These elevated Bronco torture tests ensure toughness across thousands of lab, proving ground and real-world extreme challenges in the toughest and harshest climates. 
• Built Wild Capability – Confidence to go over any-type of terrain (G.O.A.T.), provided by standard 4x4 and an exclusive terrain management system, plus unique Bronco-variant architectures with class-leading levels of capability and suspension technology.
• Built Wild Innovative Design – Broncos are the future of off-roading and deliver off-road ingenuity, new design innovations coupled with heritage-inspired DNA, plus new-levels of personalization that can flatter the novice and challenge the expert adventure seeker.

To support the new brand, Ford envisions a range of lifestyle experiences, including Off-Roadeo outdoor adventure playgrounds in four U.S. locations starting next year. An independent online community is also planned to connect current and future Bronco owners, accessible at www.thebronconation.com. Beyond that, the Bronco brand continues building its off-road racing legacy as Official Vehicle of King of the Hammers, ULTRA4 Series. Bronco also is the official SUV of SCORE-International—one of many events key for proving out the vehicle’s capability and connecting with Bronco brand influencers.

By Ashley Reyes

Nominations for the 2020 SEMA Council and Network Industry Awards are now open.

Nominations for the 2020 SEMA Council and Network Industry Awards are now open.

Recognizing the most distinguished members of the automotive aftermarket community and the various segments that they represent, the SEMA Council and Network Awards are presented to leading companies and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their niche aftermarket segments. To be considered for an award, nominees must be an existing member of at least one of SEMA's nine councils or networks and have significantly enhanced or influenced the stature and growth of the industry.

Learn more about each SEMA Council and Network Award and nominate your candidates here:

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)
• Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN)
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC)
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
• SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• Wheel and Tire Council (WTC)
• Young Executives Network (YEN)

SEMA looks forward to announcing this year’s winners at the 2020 SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November, and MPMC’s award winner at the 2020 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Indianapolis in December.

By Ashley Reyes

Nominations for the 2020 SEMA Council and Network Industry Awards are now open.

Nominations for the 2020 SEMA Council and Network Industry Awards are now open.

Recognizing the most distinguished members of the automotive aftermarket community and the various segments that they represent, the SEMA Council and Network Awards are presented to leading companies and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their niche aftermarket segments. To be considered for an award, nominees must be an existing member of at least one of SEMA's nine councils or networks and have significantly enhanced or influenced the stature and growth of the industry.

Learn more about each SEMA Council and Network Award and nominate your candidates here:

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)
• Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN)
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC)
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
• SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• Wheel and Tire Council (WTC)
• Young Executives Network (YEN)

SEMA looks forward to announcing this year’s winners at the 2020 SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November, and MPMC’s award winner at the 2020 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Indianapolis in December.

This event is a great way for members to learn more about the Young Executives Network (YEN) and all of the programs, events and volunteer opportunities that YEN has to offer. Council leadership will discuss and host a presentation on numerous YEN events, including Launch Pad, meet-ups, regional networking events, Facebook Live Chats, SEMA Show events and more. No prior experience or call participation necessary to join the conversation and get more involved.

This event is a great way for members to learn more about the Young Executives Network (YEN) and all of the programs, events and volunteer opportunities that YEN has to offer. Council leadership will discuss and host a presentation on numerous YEN events, including Launch Pad, meet-ups, regional networking events, Facebook Live Chats, SEMA Show events and more. No prior experience or call participation necessary to join the conversation and get more involved.

By SEMA Editors

Jay Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco—which was restored last year in a collaboration between Ford Performance, LGE–CTS Motorsports and the SEMA Garage and debuted at the 2019 SEMA Show—will be the subject of an episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” to debut July 12, at 9:00 p.m. (PDT), on YouTube.

Jay Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco—which was restored last year in a collaboration between Ford Performance, LGE–CTS Motorsports and the SEMA Garage and debuted at the 2019 SEMA Show—will be the subject of an episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” to debut July 12, at 9:00 p.m. (PDT), on YouTube.

Ford Performance worked with some of the industry’s best restoration professionals to bring the Bronco back to its former glory. The Bronco was outfitted with the heart of the all-new Mustang Shelby GT500—the most-powerful street-legal Ford ever.

Ford Performance engaged the expertise of noted Bronco licensee Kincer Chassis to help restore the vehicle. Kincer built the chassis and installed the powertrain, including the aforementioned Ford Performance 5.2L supercharged V8 engine.

Dennis Carpenter of Ford Restoration Parts provided body panels, while the SEMA Garage contributed its technical expertise in computer-aided design, 3D printing and calibration work. LGE-CTS Motorsports revived the body with new sheet metal, custom body mods, paint and final assembly.

“Bronco was an iconic vehicle that was many things to many people,” said Leno, now host of “Jay Leno’s Garage” on CNBC. “The Bronco was bought to use on the farm or to take your date to the prom and was comfortable in any of these environments. The idea of having a classic Bronco upgraded with modern handling, performance and braking really makes it the best of both worlds.”

A stellar team of outfitters and tuners incorporated all of these custom pieces into restoring Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco:

Powertrain

• Ford Performance 5.2L supercharged V8 engine
• TR-4050 five-speed Silver Sport transmission by TREMEC, with Quickdraw bellhousing and STX shifter assembly
• Heavy-duty 4WD drivetrain
• Advance Adapters Atlas II transfer case
• Specialty components by Krawlers Edge, including a custom airbox, exhaust fabrication, stainless-steel gas tank and coolant package
• Radiator and supercharger cooler by Brice Thomas
• Borla mufflers
• Vibrant Performance exhaust components, hoses and fittings
• Aeromotive fuel filter
• II Much fuel vent
• Engine oil cooler by Derale Performance
• Stage 8 locking header bolts
• Lifeline Batteries
• Full Throttle Kustomz Performance tuning and diagnostics

Chassis

• Kincer Chassis Adventure Series coil-over chassis
• Wilwood disc brakes and master cylinders
• Fox 2.0 factory race series coil-over shocks and steering stabilizer
• John’s Industries third members with Eaton Detroit Truetrac differentials and gearing
• Carolina Driveline driveshafts
• Dutchman Motorsports axle shafts
• Flaming River steering column
• Tuff Stuff power steering pump
• Warn locking hubs
• Gaskets by Lube Locker
• BrakeQuip brake lines
• Axle seals by Seals-It
• Painless Performance Products wiring harness

Wheels and Tires

• 18x9-in. John R steel wheels by Detroit Steel Wheels
• Rugged Trail T/A 275/65-18 tires by BFGoodrich

Exterior

• Installation of new sheet metal, custom body modification and final assembly by LGE-CTS Motorsports
• Custom “Tonight Blue” Envirobase paint supplied by PPG Industries, applied by LGE-CTS Motorsports
• Dennis Carpenter Ford Restoration Parts body panels, trim and accessories
• AMP Research side step
• STRATASYS 3-D printed grille insert molded into Dennis Carpenter sheet metal grille by LGE-CTS Motorsports
• Kaseser Air Compressors

Interior

• Sony audio with Scosche enhancements
• Eagle Ottawa genuine leather with custom perforation installed by Rogelio’s Upholstery
• Dakota Digital gauges

By SEMA Editors

Jay Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco—which was restored last year in a collaboration between Ford Performance, LGE–CTS Motorsports and the SEMA Garage and debuted at the 2019 SEMA Show—will be the subject of an episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” to debut July 12, at 9:00 p.m. (PDT), on YouTube.

Jay Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco—which was restored last year in a collaboration between Ford Performance, LGE–CTS Motorsports and the SEMA Garage and debuted at the 2019 SEMA Show—will be the subject of an episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” to debut July 12, at 9:00 p.m. (PDT), on YouTube.

Ford Performance worked with some of the industry’s best restoration professionals to bring the Bronco back to its former glory. The Bronco was outfitted with the heart of the all-new Mustang Shelby GT500—the most-powerful street-legal Ford ever.

Ford Performance engaged the expertise of noted Bronco licensee Kincer Chassis to help restore the vehicle. Kincer built the chassis and installed the powertrain, including the aforementioned Ford Performance 5.2L supercharged V8 engine.

Dennis Carpenter of Ford Restoration Parts provided body panels, while the SEMA Garage contributed its technical expertise in computer-aided design, 3D printing and calibration work. LGE-CTS Motorsports revived the body with new sheet metal, custom body mods, paint and final assembly.

“Bronco was an iconic vehicle that was many things to many people,” said Leno, now host of “Jay Leno’s Garage” on CNBC. “The Bronco was bought to use on the farm or to take your date to the prom and was comfortable in any of these environments. The idea of having a classic Bronco upgraded with modern handling, performance and braking really makes it the best of both worlds.”

A stellar team of outfitters and tuners incorporated all of these custom pieces into restoring Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco:

Powertrain

• Ford Performance 5.2L supercharged V8 engine
• TR-4050 five-speed Silver Sport transmission by TREMEC, with Quickdraw bellhousing and STX shifter assembly
• Heavy-duty 4WD drivetrain
• Advance Adapters Atlas II transfer case
• Specialty components by Krawlers Edge, including a custom airbox, exhaust fabrication, stainless-steel gas tank and coolant package
• Radiator and supercharger cooler by Brice Thomas
• Borla mufflers
• Vibrant Performance exhaust components, hoses and fittings
• Aeromotive fuel filter
• II Much fuel vent
• Engine oil cooler by Derale Performance
• Stage 8 locking header bolts
• Lifeline Batteries
• Full Throttle Kustomz Performance tuning and diagnostics

Chassis

• Kincer Chassis Adventure Series coil-over chassis
• Wilwood disc brakes and master cylinders
• Fox 2.0 factory race series coil-over shocks and steering stabilizer
• John’s Industries third members with Eaton Detroit Truetrac differentials and gearing
• Carolina Driveline driveshafts
• Dutchman Motorsports axle shafts
• Flaming River steering column
• Tuff Stuff power steering pump
• Warn locking hubs
• Gaskets by Lube Locker
• BrakeQuip brake lines
• Axle seals by Seals-It
• Painless Performance Products wiring harness

Wheels and Tires

• 18x9-in. John R steel wheels by Detroit Steel Wheels
• Rugged Trail T/A 275/65-18 tires by BFGoodrich

Exterior

• Installation of new sheet metal, custom body modification and final assembly by LGE-CTS Motorsports
• Custom “Tonight Blue” Envirobase paint supplied by PPG Industries, applied by LGE-CTS Motorsports
• Dennis Carpenter Ford Restoration Parts body panels, trim and accessories
• AMP Research side step
• STRATASYS 3-D printed grille insert molded into Dennis Carpenter sheet metal grille by LGE-CTS Motorsports
• Kaseser Air Compressors

Interior

• Sony audio with Scosche enhancements
• Eagle Ottawa genuine leather with custom perforation installed by Rogelio’s Upholstery
• Dakota Digital gauges

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Current Rockingham Dragway track owner and operator Steve Earwood has entered an agreement with Al Gennarelli and Dan VanHorn to take over the track.

Rockingham Dragway Announces Transition to New Owners

Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina will transition to new owners over a two-year period, according to track officials. Current track owner and operator Steve Earwood has entered an agreement with Al Gennarelli and Dan VanHorn to take over the track, which opened in 1968 and was one of the first drag strips to feature amenities like permanent restrooms, concrete grandstands and corporate suites. The pair will take the next two years to observe and learn about the race facility before assuming full ownership in October 2022. Earwood notes that it will be "business as usual" at the Rock during the interim, including a full slate of events, which can be found at www.rockinghamdragway.com/schedule. Earwood will continue to oversee day-to-day operations and will remain a consultant to Gennarelli and VanHorn after the sale.

This year’s all-LS event will again feature drag racing, autocross, the 3S Challenge, and a dyno challenge, Test-N-Tune, Show-N-Shine, car cruise, road course, time attack, Track X and more.

LS Fest East 2020 Pre-Registration Now Open

Pre-registration has opened for the 11th annual Holley LS Fest East event, scheduled to take place, September 11–13, at Beech Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This year’s all-LS event will again feature drag racing, autocross, the 3S Challenge, and a dyno challenge, Test-N-Tune, Show-N-Shine, car cruise, road course, time attack, Track X and more. Grand Champion and autocross reservations are already sold out (waiting lists are available for each), but pre-registration is still open for Drag, $10k N/T Shootout Drag, Car Show and Road Course/Time Attack options. Pre-register online at the LS Fest website.

Steve Sisko was crowned the JEGS-SFG $1.1 million champion at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan, last weekend.

Steve Sisko Claims $1.1 Million, Biggest Payday In Drag Racing History

Steve Sisko was crowned the JEGS-SFG $1.1 million champion at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan, last weekend. He defeated competitor Bill Swain during the final round to collect the biggest payday in drag-racing history. Sisko also went on to win Sunday's $100,000 event the following night. Swain finished in the runner-up position with two entries in the race. The SFG Million presented by SFG Promotions, which ran from June 29 through July 5, featured big payouts for bracket racers, including $100,000-to-win races and an all-female shootout run.

Featuring 555 cubic inches, 723 hp, and 652 lb.-ft. of torque (with Pro-Flo 4 XT EFI), the engine is built by legendary engine builder Pat Musi.

Edelbrock, Pat Musi Racing Announce 723 HP Crate Engine

Edelbrock, in conjunction with Pat Musi Racing Engines, has announced a new high-performance crate engine offering. Featuring 555 cubic inches, 723 hp, and 652 lb.-ft. of torque (with Pro-Flo 4 XT EFI), the engine is built by legendary engine builder Pat Musi. High-performance parts are also provided by Edelbrock, including CNC-ported cylinder heads manufactured at the new Edelbrock Race Center in North Carolina. The Edelbrock-Musi 555 comes in three configurations: AVS2 Carbureted, Pro-Flo 4 EFI and Pro-Flo XT EFI. With every 555 crate engine purchase, buyers also receive a one-on-one call with Musi to discuss the customer’s setup, a certificate of authenticity signed by Musi, and exclusive 555 owners club decals. For more information, visit www.edelbrock.com/musi-racing.

Knoxville Announces Three-Day Race In Lieu Of Postponed Knoxville Nationals

The Marion County Fair Board and Knoxville Raceway have postponed the 60th running of the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s until August 11–14. In lieu of the event this year, Knoxville Raceway will partner with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series for three nights of racing, August 13–15, culminating with the Brownells Capitani Classic presented by Great Southern Bank (previously scheduled on Sunday, August 9). The event will pay $50,000 to win and $3,000 to start. Due to COVID restrictions, only 7,000 spectators will be permitted to attend each night.

For more racing news, visit Performance Racing Industry’s (PRI) website.

SEMA’s “Industry Talks: Back to Business” Series returns July 17, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT), with a live panel discussion on “The Realities of Returning to Work,” powered by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN).

During this free virtual event, SEMA members will discover how three industry leaders are adapting their business models to succeed in the current landscape and listen in as the panel answers questions from the audience on challenges and opportunities related to getting back to business. Topics will include working from home, staff changes, re-hiring, furloughing, salary reductions and how companies can expand their markets and products with less people and deal with staff childcare situations.