Thu, 04/30/2020 - 09:26

Ferrari

A prototype for the facelifted Ferrari Portofino has been spied undergoing tests in Germany. The model saw the day of light in 2017, so 2021 could be just the right time for a makeover before a new Portofino arrives around 2025.

While the rear of the car caught on camera appears to be left unchanged so far, the front is definitely different from the latest model. It comes with a new bumper, new grille and new “bandit” headlights, the latter resembling those of the Ferrari Roma.

Under the hood will be the new 620-hp V8 turbo engine equipped with a new Euro 6.2d temp approval, thanks the introduction of the particulate filter and many other details already seen in the Roma. The new fully digital interior and the new dual clutch gearbox (transaxle) with eight gears instead of the previous seven should also be part of the game.

Ferrari

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 09:26

Ferrari

A prototype for the facelifted Ferrari Portofino has been spied undergoing tests in Germany. The model saw the day of light in 2017, so 2021 could be just the right time for a makeover before a new Portofino arrives around 2025.

While the rear of the car caught on camera appears to be left unchanged so far, the front is definitely different from the latest model. It comes with a new bumper, new grille and new “bandit” headlights, the latter resembling those of the Ferrari Roma.

Under the hood will be the new 620-hp V8 turbo engine equipped with a new Euro 6.2d temp approval, thanks the introduction of the particulate filter and many other details already seen in the Roma. The new fully digital interior and the new dual clutch gearbox (transaxle) with eight gears instead of the previous seven should also be part of the game.

Ferrari

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 09:23

By Fredy Ramirez

SEMA eNews highlights products from member-companies each week. This week's submissions are listed below. The companies included with the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) logo are also members of the SDC, the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

Submit new-product press releases for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Holley Fuel Rail Kits

Holley has released its replacement fuel rail kits designed for the top-feed and front-feed Lo-Ram intake manifolds with a single injector per cylinder design. Finished in black anodizing, the high-volume rails include the mounting hardware. Two sets of brackets are included, a set for long (usually standard length) fuel injectors and a set for short (like Pico or LS7) fuel injectors.

866-464-6553
www.holley.com
PN: 534-260

Holley Fuel Rail Kits

Hurst Short Throw Shifter – 2016–2020 Camaro LS/LT

Hurst announces the release of its Billet/Plus short-throw shifter for the ’16–’20 Chevrolet Camaro LS, LT with 2.0L, 3.6L and LT1 6.2L engines with a TR3160 6-speed manual transmission. The shifter is designed to reduces shifter throw by 40%. The shifter internals features a precision hardened steel pivot ball, CNC machined housing, an isolated handle engineered for minimal vibration and a MIL-Spec black anodized finish.

Note: Must reuse factory shift knob; no shifter knob included. Designed for use with TR3160 6-speed manual transmission. TR3160 6-speed manual transmissions can be identified by Reverse gear being located in the upper left side of the shift pattern (left of 1st gear.)

866-464-6553
www.holley.com
PN: 3916050

Hurst Short Throw Shifter

Oracle Lighting Universal Dynamic ColorSHIFT LED Underbody Kit

Oracle Lighting announces its new Universal Dynamic ColorSHIFT LED Underbody Kit. The kit is designed to allow the user to run multiple moving color patterns through the LEDs using the free app. The LEDs can be set to individual colors to match any color paint or vehicle theme. The LEDs are double insulated to IP69 standard for durability and are engineered to be waterproof enough to be submerged underwater. Package Includes: (2) 4-ft. Dynamic ColorSHIFT IP 68 waterproosf strips for vehicle’s front and back underbody,(2) 6-ft. Dynamic ColorSHIFT IP 68 waterproof strips for the vehicle’s passenger and driver side underbody, (1) Dynamic ColorSHIFT Bluetooth controller and Installation accessories.

800-407-5776
www.oraclelights.com
PN: 4229-332

Oracle Lighting

Flowmaster Delta Force Snorkel System

Flowmaster introduces its Delta Force Snorkel System for the ’18–’20 Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU and 2020 Jeep Gladiator. The system utilizes a custom-molded XLPE high-flow intake. The air tube connects to the air box that features an 8-layer air filter. Other features include inner and outer hood trim pieces, a template for the required hood modification, intake tube mounting brackets, anodized fittings, high-quality silicone couplers and stainless hardware. The system in engineered to produce an increase of 9.3 hp and 11.3 lbs.-ft torque on the Dyno.

Note: This kit is not engineered to fit vehicles with a body lift. This product is not legal for use or for sale in the state of California.

866-464-6553
www.holley.com
PN: 615193

Flowmaster Delta Force Snorkel

Hellwig Springs

Hellwig Suspension Products has released helper springs for the ’19–’20 Ford Ranger, including two-wheel and four-wheel drive models. The helper springs feature a 2,000-lb. load level capacity and are engineered so the truck maintains a level ride height and better overall driver control when under load. The springs are engineered to improve safety by maintaining even weight distribution over the front and rear axles. The adjustable rate of the helper springs allows the user to dial in load support as needed through adjustable U-bolts.

800-435-5944
HellwigProducts.com
PN: 1914

Hellwig Springs 

Coker Avon Turbospeed Tire

Coker announces the release of its Avon Turbospeed tire. The tire is designed to be speed-rated bias-ply and radial tires. The Turbospeed line features nine sizes to fit 13-, 15- and 16-in. wheels, with speed ratings of S, H and V, depending on tire size.

877-207-8634
www.cokertire.com
PN: 67637

 Coker Avon Turbospeed Tire

Coker Avon Turbosteel Tire

Coker announces the release of its Avon Turbosteel tire. The tire is designed to be a steel-belted radial tire for 15- and 16-in. wheels. These tires are available in 70- and 80-series aspect ratios, with sizes such as 185VR16 for vintage sports cars and 235/70R15 for luxury sedans such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley. H and V speed ratings are available.

877-207-8634
www.cokertire.com
PN: 64307

 
 Coker Avon Turbosteel Tire

SDC members are invited to submit new-product press releases for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 09:14

By Ashley Reyes

First Data
Available through First Data, SEMA’s Payment Solutions help members process credit card payments from customers and identify products that are best for their individual businesses.

The Paycheck Protection Plan and other relief programs are helping businesses stay open and operational during this challenging time. SEMA members may be able to find additional relief through the association’s money-saving benefits. Available to members throughout the year, group benefits provide discounts on a number of essential business services.

“SEMA uses the purchasing power of the 7,600 members to negotiate discounts on services that members utilize,” said Director of Membership Gary Vigil. “Members receive significant savings that they may not be able to obtain on their own.”

While the discounts are available all year long, many members join the association for other reasons and neglect to tap into the benefits of cost savings. Below, are simple and easy ways to take advantage of SEMA membership and save money.   

Payment Solutions

Available through First Data, SEMA’s Payment Solutions help members process credit card payments from customers and identify products that are best for their individual businesses. First Data offers a variety of hardware and point-of-sale systems with reduced pricing for SEMA members.

“Whether members are adjusting to increased online sales or preparing for the reopening of their brick-and-motor stores, now is an ideal time for businesses to review their payment solutions and see how they might be able to save money,” said Vigil.

First Data/fiserv makes it possible for customers to pay with their credit card, PayPal account or electronic check, securing retailer profits, all with a hassle-free check-out experience. Additional features include contactless/nfc (near field communication) payments for mobile wallet solutions through Apple iPhones or Google Android smartphones, full-service debit/ATM transactions, virtual terminal applications, access to merchant account information through a secure and innovative Internet based reporting tool and more.

For additional information, visit www.sema.org/payment-solutions or contact First Data Senior Account Executive Ken Keifer at ken.keifer@firstdata.com, 424-903-6877.

Shipping Discounts

From supply chain to deliveries, getting products delivered quickly, safely and cost-effectively is a top priority, which is why SEMA partnered with UPS to provide exclusive services and discounts to members on services, including shipping, packaging, copying and printing and supplies. Fifty percent off air, 30% off ground and up to 50% off select services are just a few of the discounts available after enrollment with the UPS shipping member benefit at www.sema.org/ups. Members are also eligible to receive continuous UPS Smart Pickup for free and a minimum 75% discount for heavyweight freight shipments with UPS LTL Freight.

UPS Capital Protection for small package shipments provides members with flexible parcel insurance in the event of loss or damage at a discounted rate of 17%. There is no fee to sign up and charges are incorporated automatically into your UPS invoice. Click here for additional information. To learn more about how UPS can help your business improve cash flow, accelerate and protect payments and protect your goods, visit www.sema.org/ups or contact 1-800-MEMBERS (1-800-636-2377), Monday–Friday, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (EDT).

Insurance Solutions

SEMA members have unique insurance needs. Having a partner that knows and understands the industry is vital to ensuring proper coverage and the best rates. The Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA) offers reduced cost insurance solutions to help SEMA members receive the best liability when preparing for or recovering from accidents, unprecedented emergencies and staff changes.

Ideal for manufacturers, suppliers, wholesale distributors and retailers looking to reduce their costs, increase their coverage and prevent issues that might negatively impact their business, SEIA matches business needs with specific insurance benefits, providing members with an extensive selection of employment forms and policies to readily equip them for any potential outcome.

SEIA offers general and products liability, garage liability, business auto liability, business property, crime coverage, workers’ compensation and more. As an added bonus, SEIA clients will receive a complimentary bundle of business services, including a human resources consultation and access to a members-only website that contains a selection of employment forms and policies. To learn more, visit www.sema.org/insurance-solutions.  

To discuss other member benefits and opportunities available to SEMA members, contact Gary Vigil at 909-978-6738 or garyv@sema.org.

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 09:14

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Racing
Several motorsports facilities and tracks across the nation announced plans to reopen and host race events, while following recommended guidelines to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Race Tracks Announce Plans to Open Gates

Several motorsports facilities and tracks across the nation announced plans to reopen and host race events, while following recommended guidelines to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). SEMA has also released a Coronavirus Updates & Resources page.

California
Perris Auto Speedway
Perris Auto Speedway promoter Don Kazarian has announced the half-mile clay oval will open its 2020 season on May 23, with the annual “Salute to Indy” event featuring the USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series. The track will also open for private practice sessions as soon as May 2. For more information on the practice sessions and its guidelines, visit here. For more information, visit www.perrisautospeedway.com.

Georgia
Gresham Motorsports Park
Local drivers can schedule a private practice session at Gresham Motorsports Park in accordance with up-to-date social distancing regulations. To schedule a session, contact info@racegmp.com. Additionally, Gresham Motorsports Park has delayed the Peach State Classic until October 23-25. For more information, visit www.racegmp.com.

Iowa
Knoxville Raceway
Officials have announced the Knoxville Raceway season opener is set for Saturday, May 16. For more information, visit www.knoxvilleraceway.com.

North Carolina
Tri-County Race Track
The Schaeffer’s Oil Tarheel Invitational presented by PitStopUSA.com, a 40-lap Super Late Model event, is scheduled to take place April 30 without fans in attendance. Track officials have contacted local authorities for approval to run the event. For more information, visit www.tricountyracetrack.net.

Ohio
Brushcreek Motorsports Complex
In close consultation with local officials and stringent adherence to state guidelines, including executive orders from Governor Mike Dewine, Brushcreek Motorsports Complex in Peebles, Ohio, will host its 20th annual season-opening event on Saturday, May 9, featuring UMP-style late models, modifieds, Legend cars and more. Although no spectators will be allowed in the grandstands, the BMC website has information on extremely limited trackside parking. Participants will be limited with carefully placed parking areas a recommended distance away. Fans are encouraged to support the track and the industry by tuning into the broadcast on Pit Row TV. For more information, including the government regulations that will be implemented on race day, visit www.brushcreekmotorsports.com.

Tennessee
Four Eastern Tennessee dirt track owners, Mitch McCarter (411 Speedway), Roger Sellers (Smoky Mountain Speedway), Gary Hall (Tazewell Speedway) and Landon Stallard (Volunteer Speedway) have agreed on a revised schedule of events for the 2020 season. The calendar opens Saturday, May 2, at 411 with a $2,500-to-win Topless Outlaws event. An open practice will also be held at Tazewell the same night. The following week, Tazewell and Volunteer will host their respective weekly racing series. For more information and the complete schedules, visit here or visit www.411motorspeedway.net.

South Carolina
Cherokee Speedway
The inaugural Palmetto Invitational paying $10,000-to-win Super Late Model event is set to take place on May 2. Fans can watch the pay-per-view race on Speed51.com, as no spectators will be allowed in the stands. The track will also host closed practice sessions. For more information, visit www.cherokeespeedwaysc.com.

Darlington Dragway
Darlington Dragway, with permission from the South Carolina Department of Commerce, will hold test sessions under strict guidelines, as reported by Drag Illustrated. Guidelines include social distancing, temperature checks, and no spectators. Deputies will be on hand to ensure the guidelines are followed. For more information, visit www.racedarlingtondragway.com.

Wisconsin
Slinger Super Speedway
Although some events through May have been canceled, Slinger Super Speedway plans to return to racing May 17, when Super Late Models will take to the track, followed by the EH Wolf & Sons Memorial Day Spectacular on May 24. For more information, visit www.slingersuperspeedway.com.

Terry McMillen
Terry McMillen and the AMALIE Motor Oil team was crowned the inaugural VRHRA Top Fuel champion.

Terry McMillen Wins VRHRA Championship

Born the day after the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals was postponed, the Virtual Reality Drag Racing Association (VRHRA) was the brainchild of CompetitionPlus.com founder and publisher Bobby Bennett and his staff. The goal was a four-race fan vote series. Soon after the beginning of this endeavor Bennett contracted COVID-19 and his staff pressed on running the events and eventually crowning Terry McMillen and the AMALIE Motor Oil team the inaugural VRHRA Top Fuel champion. The events netted a total in excess of 1.1 million fan votes and McMillen garnered the lion share throughout the series advancing to three final rounds, winning twice and picking up two No. 1 qualifiers. With the win in the series finale, McMillen locked up his second win and the series championship. He nudged out Kalitta Motorsports Top Fuel driver Shawn Langdon in the final round for the race victory. It was his second round win over No. 1 qualifier Justin Ashley that clinched the inaugural Top Fuel crown. McMillen and his Amalie Motor Oil team continue to work in their shop preparing for the conclusion of the NHRA season currently scheduled to restart the first weekend of June with the Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida.

NASCAR Teams May Return To Work, Deemed “Essential”

NASCAR’s North Carolina-based teams may be able to return to work soon, as announced by State Governor Roy Cooper during a press conference earlier this week. Although the state's stay-at-home order has been extended through May 8, Gov. Cooper said that it was his understanding that NASCAR teams were allowed to remain open under the current state executive order. Gov. Cooper also announced he is in discussions with NASCAR officials, track owners and team owners in regard to the upcoming Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Memorial Day weekend. There is a possibility for the race to commence without fans, but an official announcement will be made "pretty soon." For the latest NASCAR schedule, visit www.nascar.com.

SCORE Revises 2020 SCORE World Desert Championship Schedule

Adjusting to the changing times, SCORE International has announced further revisions of its 2020 racing schedule with new race dates for the first two events. The three rounds of the revised 2020 SCORE World Desert Championship will start with a new date for the SCORE Baja 500 (July 14–19), a new date for the SCORE San Felipe 250 (September 22-27) and the previously announced season-ending SCORE Baja 1000 (November 17-22). For additional information, visit the SCORE website at www.score-international.com.

Speed Video

SpeedVideo.com to Broadcast Of Winter Meltdown 5 No-Prep Shootout

Speedvideo will broadcast the Winter Meltdown 5 No-Prep Shootout, December 4-5, 2020. According to Winter Meltdown 5 organizer Matt Plotkin of Project X Promotions, this will be a true no-prep event that will challenge both drivers and tuners to navigate the track. Winter Meltdown 5 will feature Big Tire, Small Tire, True Street, King of the Tailgate, Full-Size Truck, 6.0 Index, 7.0 Index, and Junior Dragsters classes. Speedvideo.com will broadcast Winter Meltdown to annual or monthly subscribers.

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

 

 

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 08:50

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Hagerty Launches Grant Program to Help Automotive Enthusiast Businesses Recover From COVID-19 Economic Slow-Down

Hagerty has announced the launch of its “Restore the Roar” grant initiative to help jumpstart U.S.-based enthusiast vehicle restoration shops, specialty parts manufacturers and other related businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 economic decline. Applications are available online and due by May 4. Grants will range from $5,000–$10,000 and be awarded in mid-May.

To be considered for the Hagerty "Restore the Roar" small business grants, a business must:

  • Be independently owned and operated.
  • Have fewer than 20 employees.
  • Have annual revenue less than $5 million.
  • Be 50 percent focused on the collectible and enthusiast vehicle industry.
  • Demonstrate need based on the crisis’ impact on business.
  • Demonstrate how the funds will be used.

For full qualification details and to access the grant application, visit Hagerty’s Restore the Roar website.

Ashley Khan
Ashley Khan

ITW Permatex Names Ashley Khan as Marketing Manager

Permatex has named Ashley Khan marketing manager for the Permatex and Versachem portfolio of products. Paco Agrafojo, Permatex director of marketing, made the announcement and noted that Khan will be based in Hartford, Connecticut, and lead a team of brand marketers in the Permatex Engine Repair Group. Khan joins Permatex in her third role with Illinois Tool Works, most recently serving as the brand marketing manager for Permatex Canada Inc., where she managed the company’s Rain-X, Slime, Fix-A-Flat, Black Magic and Gumout brands. Prior to joining Permatex Canada in 2016, Khan held a variety of roles at several advertising agencies and domestic and internationally integrated advertising campaigns for Fortune 500 brands, including General Motors, State Farm and Dell.

Kustom Built Cars Offers Graduates a Chance to Learn Auto Restoration

Kustom Built Cars is once again offering free restoration workshops for five individuals age 18–25 who are interested in careers in the automotive restoration industry. The company specializes in teaching a variety of techniques under the guidance of a professional car builder, providing students the chance to learn and work hands-on, building a custom car from start to finish in a real working hot rod shop. To qualify, submit a 2-5-minute video clip of why you want to learn the trade and what type of job you'll pursue in the industry. The deadline to apply is July 15. The company will choose the five individuals for the workshops that begin August 5. To submit your video, complete the form at www.kustombuiltcars.com/video.

Yamaha Motorsports Launches “Deliver Your Ride” Program

Yamaha Motor Corp. USA, launched an all-new “Deliver Your Ride” program supporting Yamaha dealers that are able to complete vehicle purchases remotely and then deliver the product directly to customers. The new program includes ATV, side-by-side, motorcycle, and snowmobile products, and is available nationwide wherever dealers can legally and safely participate. The new Deliver Your Ride initiative was announced to Yamaha dealers on April 17, as a temporary program and Yamaha is working with dealers to assist with the implementation. Interested customers can contact their local Yamaha dealer or visit www.yamahamotorsports.com to determine availability in their area. This is a voluntary program and Yamaha is encouraging each dealer to determine the feasibility based on their local laws and capabilities.

Design Engineering Inc. Celebrates 25 Years

Design Engineering Inc. (DEI) is celebrating 25 years of sales, service and support of heat and sound control products. Founded in 1995 by performance industry veteran Dale Markley and his wife Nancy, DEI has designed and created “thermal tuning products” for the racing and performance aftermarket, as well as related industries such as aviation, powersports, marine and even locomotive. DEI is also known for its “build-to-spec" contract work for commercial, industrial and military-related businesses, along with myriad other industries. DEI won a SEMA Best New Performance-Racing product award in 2003 for its introduction of CryO2.

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.

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 08:49

It’s not too late to apply for a 2020 SEMA Show booth. The online Exhibitor Services Manual contains all of the resources pertinent to a successful exhibit at the SEMA Show. To help you navigate efficiently, each section is broken down to the basics. Simply click the buttons to the left to see the products and services available. 

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 08:49

It’s not too late to apply for a 2020 SEMA Show booth. The online Exhibitor Services Manual contains all of the resources pertinent to a successful exhibit at the SEMA Show. To help you navigate efficiently, each section is broken down to the basics. Simply click the buttons to the left to see the products and services available. 

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 08:46

SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities in the Classifieds page of SEMA.org.

Thu, 04/30/2020 - 08:26

By SEMA Editors

John Evankovich
John Evankovich
Ted Wentz
Ted Wentz III

SEMA has partnered with Survey & Ballot Systems (SBS) to administer the 2020 SEMA Board of Directors election. To assure your election-specific broadcast email arrives safely in your inbox on May 12, 2020, simply add the following email address as an approved sender: noreply@directvote.net.  

If you do not receive your election email by May 12, 2020, please check your spam filter or junk mail folder. If you do not find it there, contact support@directvote.net.

The following candidates are vying for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:

Distributors/Retailers Category (one open seat):

  • John Evankovich – Director, Sam’s Club
  • Ted Wentz III – CEO, Quadratec, Inc.

The winner will be announced by May 29.

Get to know more about at JohnEvankovich and Ted Wentz III at www.sema.org/2020-bod-candidates.