Compiled by SEMA Editors

Covercraft Industries is expanding production of urgently needed personal protective equipment, mainly gowns and masks, for healthcare workers and first responders fighting the Coronavirus pandemic.

Covercraft Producing Personal Protective Equipment

Covercraft Industries is expanding production of urgently needed personal protective equipment, mainly gowns and masks, for healthcare workers and first responders fighting the Coronavirus pandemic.

“Covercraft’s expertise in working with non-woven specialty fabrics has allowed us to pivot our operations in the USA from crafting car covers, seat covers, and windshield sunscreens to helping provide hospitals and first responders with personal protective equipment incredibly fast”, said Clay Callan, president and COO of Covercraft Industries. “Orders will begin shipping today and we have capacity to potentially build hundreds of thousands of units. As an industry leader in the product categories we manufacture, we felt it was our duty to step in and help our country in this time of need.”

Groups or organizations in need of these PPE products should contact Covercraft at 405-367-8930 or covercraftppe@covercraft.com.

Impact Racing to Make Masks

Impact Racing, an Indianapolis-based manufacturer of helmets and racing gear, is switching production to keep its workers on the job and make items meant to keep people healthy. Former stock car racer Steve Barnett is now Franklin, Indiana’s mayor. He turned to the racing world to get face masks for his police officers and firefighters. Under normal circumstances, Impact Racing would be at the peak of making race-related gear from suits to helmets. But it's turned its production lines to make 100% cotton washable masks. For more information, visit www.impactraceproducts.com.

DSM's two Stratasys FDM 3D printers are operating around-the-clock to produce headbands to be used as part of medical face shields.

DSR/DSM Partner with Stratasys to Aid in the Fight of COVID-19 Pandemic

Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) and Don Schumacher Motorsports (DSM) have joined the fight to help protect health care workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the growing need for supplies, DSM has teamed up with Stratasys to produce headbands, which will be used for medical face shields in healthcare facilities. DSM’s two Stratasys FDM 3D printers—the Stratasys Fortus 450mc and F370—are typically used for chassis fixturing, weldment fixturing, rapid prototype development and proofing out new components for DSR’s fleet of race cars. With NHRA drag racing at a temporary standstill, both printers have switched gears and are now working round-the-clock to churn out as many headbands as possible throughout the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“We take this pandemic very seriously and want to do our part to help,” said DSM owner Don Schumacher. “When our partners at Stratasys approached us about producing these crucial pieces for medical face shields, we didn’t hesitate to say ‘yes.’ We have the capability, so of course we wanted to do whatever we could to help support the vulnerable medical personnel that are working so hard during these unprecedented times.”

Upon completion, the DSM-produced headbands are turned over to Stratasys, who then installs clear shields to the bands. The finished goods are placed into inventory at the Stratasys warehouse, and then distributed to hospitals upon request via an online request form. For more information, visit www.shoeracing.com.

Port City Racecars Manufactures Portable Sneeze Guards

Port City Racecars, the race car chassis provider based in Mooresville, North Carolina, has started selling portable sneeze guards in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The see-through guards are designed for point-of-sale locations at places such as reception desks, grocery stores, gas stations and more. The standard size is 24-in. wide and 32-in. tall, but custom sizes are also available. For more information, visit www.portcityracecars.com.

Fleece Performance Producing Disposable Full Face Shields

Fleece Performance has redeployed its engineers and a portion of its flexible manufacturing space to develop, test, document and begin producing a patent-pending disposable full face shield for medical professionals who are running short on this form of personal protection equipment nationwide. Setting this mask apart is its ability to ship flat, requiring less than 2% of the shipping and storage space required by currently available face shields, exponentially reducing shipping and storage costs. The company has already begun deliveries to local hospitals. For more information, visit www.fleeceperformance.com.

BendPak is opening a new 100,000-sq.-ft. distribution center near Mobile, Alabama.

BendPak Opens East Coast Distribution Center

BendPak is opening a new 100,000-sq.-ft. distribution center near Mobile, Alabama, to better serve customers in the eastern United States. The administrative and shipping complex, which is expected to be fully operational within 60 days, will enable BendPak to deliver products same-day or next-day to more customers in the eastern half of the country. The new warehouse will stock all of BendPak’s products, and a future training facility will include a classroom and fully appointed service bay to offer customers an option for technical training on BendPak’s product lines. BendPak’s headquarters and distribution multiplex in Santa Paula, California, will continue offering shipping and order-fulfilment services to approximately 15 western states. BendPak’s new distribution center features a 3,600 sq.-ft. administrative office space, 15 dock doors and two oversize ramp doors.

Power Test Acquires Dynomite Dynamometer

Power Test Inc., a dynamometer and test system manufacturer located in Sussex Wisconsin, has acquired the assets of DynoMite Dynamometer—a  44 -year-old business located in Manchester, New Hampshire. This acquisition comes right on the tail of Power Test acquiring, moving and integrating another longtime competitor, SuperFlow Technologies, formerly of Des Moines, Iowa.

Al Anderson Named Peterson’s New Vice President of Sales and Marketing

Peterson Manufacturing has announced that Al Anderson has been named the company’s new vice president of sales and marketing, effective April 1. Most recently, Anderson was director of fleet business development for CIMC Intermodal Equipment, headquartered in South Gate, California. Prior to that, he was corporate director of heavy-duty sales for Peterson and helped launch the company’s PetersonPULSE Intelligent Trailer System. His previous stops include serving as national sales manager for Bose Corp.; director of national fleet accounts for JOST International; and national accounts manager for Consolidated Metco. For six years he chaired the Associates Group of the American Trucking Association’s 2,300-member Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), receiving their Recognized Associate Award and their Silver Spark Plug Award—trucking’s highest honor recognizing outstanding contributions to the industry. Anderson is also a past board member of the Truckload Carriers Association and is a Trustee of TCA’s Scholarship Fund. Anderson will head a sales and marketing force over 120 strong, including inside sales reps, customer support staff, marketing specialists, field sales and services personnel and manufacturers’ reps.

SpeedVideo is releasing four brand-new automotive shows for drag-racing fans. “Burnout,” “Drag Racing Friends,” “Tech Inspection,” and “Rewind.”

SpeedVideo.com Announces New Automotive Shows Debuting in April

SpeedVideo is releasing four brand-new automotive shows for drag-racing fans. “Burnout,” “Drag Racing Friends,” “Tech Inspection,” and “Rewind” will feature dynamic personalities from the sport starting next week. “Burnout” is the weekly drag-racing show hosted by Drag Illustrated’s Wes Buck, co-starring veteran drag-racing journalist Mike Galimi, and rising star drag racer Alex Taylor. The show features news, highlights, current events, commentary, opinions, recaps and a look ahead to the next week. “Drag Racing Friends” is a video talk show hosted by Chad Reynolds and co-host “Street Outlaws” star Kayla Morton. “Tech Inspection” is a tech-focused show featuring educational tech content for drag racers and street/strip enthusiasts. Hosted by Brian Petty, the show will discuss tuning, power adders, drivetrain, chassis setup, engine building and more. “Rewind” curates weekly, selected and highlighted drag-racing clips. Season 1 will entail 40 episodes between the four shows over the next three months. Full episodes will be live on SpeedVideo.com each week for subscribers, with one episode each month available to all via Speedvideo, Drag Illustrated, Dragzine, Facebook, and YouTube. In addition, for all four shows, show highlights, clips and cut-downs will be available across social media for free.

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.

By SEMA Editors

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

Distributors/Retailers (one open seat):

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

Voting will take place online between May 12–May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company’s primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company’s designated primary contact beginning April 30. Winners will be announced by May 29 and formally inducted into the SEMA Board of Directors at the SEMA Installation & Gala,  July 24, 2020.

By SEMA Editors

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

Distributors/Retailers (one open seat):

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

Voting will take place online between May 12–May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company’s primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company’s designated primary contact beginning April 30. Winners will be announced by May 29 and formally inducted into the SEMA Board of Directors at the SEMA Installation & Gala,  July 24, 2020.

By SEMA Editors

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will cancel its June 2020 show in Detroit in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Following the announcement last month that the Geneva International Motor Show had been cancelled, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will cancel its June 2020 show in Detroit in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic sweeping across the world and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s expected plans to repurpose TCF Center into a temporary field hospital.  

“With the more than 100 convention centers and facilities around the country being considered to potentially serve as temporary hospitals, it became clear to us that TCF Center would be an inevitable option to serve as a care facility to satisfy our community’s urgent health needs,” he said.

“One of the hallmarks of NAIAS since the very beginning has been our commitment to being socially responsible,” Alberts said. “Our thoughts continue to be with those whose lives have been impacted by this devastating virus. And, we support the city and state’s mission to help preserve life in the face of this challenging situation.”

NAIAS will hold its next annual show in June 2021. Doug North, 2020 NAIAS chairman, said show officials are also discussing plans for a fundraising activity later this year to benefit the children’s charities that were designated as beneficiaries of the 2020 Charity Preview event.     

“We know these organizations rely on the money raised at Charity Preview to fund many wonderful support services for the most vulnerable in our community,” North said. “With this in mind, we will be in touch with the charities in the near future to present some ideas.”

North, who will act as Chairman of the 2021 NAIAS, expressed the show’s gratitude to all of its stakeholders.

“The level of excitement for the 2020 show was extraordinary, and we deeply appreciate all of the support from our OEM partners and our more than 200 valued sponsors, as well as the city of Detroit and the state of Michigan,” North said.

“We will be ready to unleash this energy and enthusiasm when June 2021 rolls around to produce the absolute best show and experience ever. We look forward to literally redefining the auto show landscape with fresh ideas and innovative opportunities for mobility activations and partnerships,” North said.

All tickets purchased for 2020 NAIAS, including tickets for the Public Show, Industry Preview and Charity Preview, will be fully refunded. Charity Preview ticket holders will be given the option of a refund, or the opportunity to donate the proceeds of their refund to one of the nine designated Charity Preview beneficiaries. The NAIAS ticket office will be in contact with all ticket holders.  

The NAIAS sponsorship team will also be in contact with each sponsor directly to answer questions regarding refunds and their contracts.

The 2021 show dates are:

• Motor Bella: Friday, June 11–Monday, June 14
• The Gallery: Monday, June 14
• Press Preview: Tuesday, June 15–Wednesday, June 16
• AutoMobili-D Powered by PlanetM: Tuesday, June 15–Thursday, June 17
• Industry Preview: Wednesday, June 16–Thursday, June 17
• Charity Preview: Friday, June 18
• Public Show: Saturday, June 19–Saturday, June 26

In related news, the 2020 Paris Motor Show, originally scheduled October 1-11, has been cancelled, and the 2020 New York International Auto Show has been rescheduled for August 28–September 6

By SEMA Editors

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will cancel its June 2020 show in Detroit in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Following the announcement last month that the Geneva International Motor Show had been cancelled, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will cancel its June 2020 show in Detroit in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic sweeping across the world and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s expected plans to repurpose TCF Center into a temporary field hospital.  

“With the more than 100 convention centers and facilities around the country being considered to potentially serve as temporary hospitals, it became clear to us that TCF Center would be an inevitable option to serve as a care facility to satisfy our community’s urgent health needs,” he said.

“One of the hallmarks of NAIAS since the very beginning has been our commitment to being socially responsible,” Alberts said. “Our thoughts continue to be with those whose lives have been impacted by this devastating virus. And, we support the city and state’s mission to help preserve life in the face of this challenging situation.”

NAIAS will hold its next annual show in June 2021. Doug North, 2020 NAIAS chairman, said show officials are also discussing plans for a fundraising activity later this year to benefit the children’s charities that were designated as beneficiaries of the 2020 Charity Preview event.     

“We know these organizations rely on the money raised at Charity Preview to fund many wonderful support services for the most vulnerable in our community,” North said. “With this in mind, we will be in touch with the charities in the near future to present some ideas.”

North, who will act as Chairman of the 2021 NAIAS, expressed the show’s gratitude to all of its stakeholders.

“The level of excitement for the 2020 show was extraordinary, and we deeply appreciate all of the support from our OEM partners and our more than 200 valued sponsors, as well as the city of Detroit and the state of Michigan,” North said.

“We will be ready to unleash this energy and enthusiasm when June 2021 rolls around to produce the absolute best show and experience ever. We look forward to literally redefining the auto show landscape with fresh ideas and innovative opportunities for mobility activations and partnerships,” North said.

All tickets purchased for 2020 NAIAS, including tickets for the Public Show, Industry Preview and Charity Preview, will be fully refunded. Charity Preview ticket holders will be given the option of a refund, or the opportunity to donate the proceeds of their refund to one of the nine designated Charity Preview beneficiaries. The NAIAS ticket office will be in contact with all ticket holders.  

The NAIAS sponsorship team will also be in contact with each sponsor directly to answer questions regarding refunds and their contracts.

The 2021 show dates are:

• Motor Bella: Friday, June 11–Monday, June 14
• The Gallery: Monday, June 14
• Press Preview: Tuesday, June 15–Wednesday, June 16
• AutoMobili-D Powered by PlanetM: Tuesday, June 15–Thursday, June 17
• Industry Preview: Wednesday, June 16–Thursday, June 17
• Charity Preview: Friday, June 18
• Public Show: Saturday, June 19–Saturday, June 26

In related news, the 2020 Paris Motor Show, originally scheduled October 1-11, has been cancelled, and the 2020 New York International Auto Show has been rescheduled for August 28–September 6

By SEMA Editors

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will cancel its June 2020 show in Detroit in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Following the announcement last month that the Geneva International Motor Show had been cancelled, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will cancel its June 2020 show in Detroit in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic sweeping across the world and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s expected plans to repurpose TCF Center into a temporary field hospital.  

“With the more than 100 convention centers and facilities around the country being considered to potentially serve as temporary hospitals, it became clear to us that TCF Center would be an inevitable option to serve as a care facility to satisfy our community’s urgent health needs,” he said.

“One of the hallmarks of NAIAS since the very beginning has been our commitment to being socially responsible,” Alberts said. “Our thoughts continue to be with those whose lives have been impacted by this devastating virus. And, we support the city and state’s mission to help preserve life in the face of this challenging situation.”

NAIAS will hold its next annual show in June 2021. Doug North, 2020 NAIAS chairman, said show officials are also discussing plans for a fundraising activity later this year to benefit the children’s charities that were designated as beneficiaries of the 2020 Charity Preview event.     

“We know these organizations rely on the money raised at Charity Preview to fund many wonderful support services for the most vulnerable in our community,” North said. “With this in mind, we will be in touch with the charities in the near future to present some ideas.”

North, who will act as Chairman of the 2021 NAIAS, expressed the show’s gratitude to all of its stakeholders.

“The level of excitement for the 2020 show was extraordinary, and we deeply appreciate all of the support from our OEM partners and our more than 200 valued sponsors, as well as the city of Detroit and the state of Michigan,” North said.

“We will be ready to unleash this energy and enthusiasm when June 2021 rolls around to produce the absolute best show and experience ever. We look forward to literally redefining the auto show landscape with fresh ideas and innovative opportunities for mobility activations and partnerships,” North said.

All tickets purchased for 2020 NAIAS, including tickets for the Public Show, Industry Preview and Charity Preview, will be fully refunded. Charity Preview ticket holders will be given the option of a refund, or the opportunity to donate the proceeds of their refund to one of the nine designated Charity Preview beneficiaries. The NAIAS ticket office will be in contact with all ticket holders.  

The NAIAS sponsorship team will also be in contact with each sponsor directly to answer questions regarding refunds and their contracts.

The 2021 show dates are:

• Motor Bella: Friday, June 11–Monday, June 14
• The Gallery: Monday, June 14
• Press Preview: Tuesday, June 15–Wednesday, June 16
• AutoMobili-D Powered by PlanetM: Tuesday, June 15–Thursday, June 17
• Industry Preview: Wednesday, June 16–Thursday, June 17
• Charity Preview: Friday, June 18
• Public Show: Saturday, June 19–Saturday, June 26

In related news, the 2020 Paris Motor Show, originally scheduled October 1-11, has been cancelled, and the 2020 New York International Auto Show has been rescheduled for August 28–September 6

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a notice that employers are required to advise employees of their rights under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Download the poster. 

The recently enacted FFCRA expands sick and family leave benefits, effective April 1, 2020. The law provides 10 days of paid sick leave at 100% of an employee’s salary (capped at $511 per day and $5,110 total) for those working at businesses with 500 or fewer employees. This benefit applies to employees who have been told to quarantine, show symptoms, were exposed to the virus or those who are trying to get a test or preventive care. The new law requires part-time employees receive the paid sick leave equivalent to the number of hours they typically work during a two-week period. For example, if an employee typically works 20 hours a week, they are eligible for up to 40 hours of pay.

The DOL has created a webpage with fact sheets and frequently asked questions. The webpage includes direct links to specific documents:  

• Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Employer Paid Leave Requirements
• Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Questions and Answers
• Covid-19 and the Fair Labor Standards Act - Questions and Answers
• Covid-19 and the Family and Medical Leave Act Questions and Answers
• FFCRA Employee Rights Poster
• Field Assistance Bulletin

Here are several key provisions:   

• Employees will only be able to take leave under the FFCRA if the employer otherwise has work for them to do. In other words, if an employee is furloughed before or after April 1, the employee will not be eligible for FFCRA. Likewise, if an employee’s hours are reduced, the employee will only be able to take FFCRA leave to receive paid leave based on their reduced schedule. See Q&A # 23 through 28.
• Employers will not receive credit for any leave for FFCRA purposes that they have voluntarily provided to employees prior to April 1. As of April 1, any employee who is eligible for FFCRA leave must receive the full leave regardless of any leave previously provided to them.
• Businesses with less than 50 employees may claim an exemption to the FFCRA. The business may do so if an officer of the company determines the business falls into one of three scenarios as described in the Q&A # 58 and 59.

Questions? Contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a notice that employers are required to advise employees of their rights under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Download the poster. 

The recently enacted FFCRA expands sick and family leave benefits, effective April 1, 2020. The law provides 10 days of paid sick leave at 100% of an employee’s salary (capped at $511 per day and $5,110 total) for those working at businesses with 500 or fewer employees. This benefit applies to employees who have been told to quarantine, show symptoms, were exposed to the virus or those who are trying to get a test or preventive care. The new law requires part-time employees receive the paid sick leave equivalent to the number of hours they typically work during a two-week period. For example, if an employee typically works 20 hours a week, they are eligible for up to 40 hours of pay.

The DOL has created a webpage with fact sheets and frequently asked questions. The webpage includes direct links to specific documents:  

• Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Employer Paid Leave Requirements
• Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Questions and Answers
• Covid-19 and the Fair Labor Standards Act - Questions and Answers
• Covid-19 and the Family and Medical Leave Act Questions and Answers
• FFCRA Employee Rights Poster
• Field Assistance Bulletin

Here are several key provisions:   

• Employees will only be able to take leave under the FFCRA if the employer otherwise has work for them to do. In other words, if an employee is furloughed before or after April 1, the employee will not be eligible for FFCRA. Likewise, if an employee’s hours are reduced, the employee will only be able to take FFCRA leave to receive paid leave based on their reduced schedule. See Q&A # 23 through 28.
• Employers will not receive credit for any leave for FFCRA purposes that they have voluntarily provided to employees prior to April 1. As of April 1, any employee who is eligible for FFCRA leave must receive the full leave regardless of any leave previously provided to them.
• Businesses with less than 50 employees may claim an exemption to the FFCRA. The business may do so if an officer of the company determines the business falls into one of three scenarios as described in the Q&A # 58 and 59.

Questions? Contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a notice that employers are required to advise employees of their rights under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Download the poster. 

The recently enacted FFCRA expands sick and family leave benefits, effective April 1, 2020. The law provides 10 days of paid sick leave at 100% of an employee’s salary (capped at $511 per day and $5,110 total) for those working at businesses with 500 or fewer employees. This benefit applies to employees who have been told to quarantine, show symptoms, were exposed to the virus or those who are trying to get a test or preventive care. The new law requires part-time employees receive the paid sick leave equivalent to the number of hours they typically work during a two-week period. For example, if an employee typically works 20 hours a week, they are eligible for up to 40 hours of pay.

The DOL has created a webpage with fact sheets and frequently asked questions. The webpage includes direct links to specific documents:  

• Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Employer Paid Leave Requirements
• Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Questions and Answers
• Covid-19 and the Fair Labor Standards Act - Questions and Answers
• Covid-19 and the Family and Medical Leave Act Questions and Answers
• FFCRA Employee Rights Poster
• Field Assistance Bulletin

Here are several key provisions:   

• Employees will only be able to take leave under the FFCRA if the employer otherwise has work for them to do. In other words, if an employee is furloughed before or after April 1, the employee will not be eligible for FFCRA. Likewise, if an employee’s hours are reduced, the employee will only be able to take FFCRA leave to receive paid leave based on their reduced schedule. See Q&A # 23 through 28.
• Employers will not receive credit for any leave for FFCRA purposes that they have voluntarily provided to employees prior to April 1. As of April 1, any employee who is eligible for FFCRA leave must receive the full leave regardless of any leave previously provided to them.
• Businesses with less than 50 employees may claim an exemption to the FFCRA. The business may do so if an officer of the company determines the business falls into one of three scenarios as described in the Q&A # 58 and 59.

Questions? Contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

New This Week

Champion Oil Provides Coronavirus Update

All Champion Brands LLC facilities are open, according to the company. Champion will continue to accept and ship orders as normal. As of now, shipping carriers are operating as normal, as restrictions differ from state to state, there are some minimal delays and supply-chain disruptions across the country. The company has adjusted internally, including social distancing, frequent sanitizing of facilities, transitioning some employees to work from home who are not part of the essential day-to-day manufacturing and warehouse functions. On-site visits from non-employees has also been suspended. For more information, visit www.championbrands.com.

Covercraft Experiencing Delays in Order Fulfillment

Covercraft is experiencing delays in order fulfillment following recent shelter-in-place orders in various locations. The company advises that placing an order immediately will ensure more rapid fulfillment once restrictions are lifted. For more information, visit www.covercraft.com.

Impact Racing Inc. Open for Business

Impact Racing Inc., which includes the MasterCraft Safety and MasterCraft Defense brands are open. As outlined by the Department of Defense, as a defense sector manufacturer and now medical PPE manufacturer, Impact Racing Inc. is considered as essential business, and will remain open for business. The company’s manufacturing facility in Indianapolis is open, accepting deliveries and manufacturing as normal. The showroom is closed, but curbside pickup is available. Sales staff is available from 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. to take calls and answer emails. The company is following CDC-recommended guidelines for social distancing, cleaning the environment, work from home options and restricted travel. For more information, visit www.impactraceproducts.com.

Pacific Performance Engineering Still Operational

According to Pacific Performance Engineering, the company is exempt from California’s shelter-in-place mandate and is still operational. The company continues to practice social distancing and is disinfecting its facilities throughout the day. Staff is also working on flexible, alternating hours to reduce the number of employees on site. Several departments have been approved to work remotely and sales representatives are conducting business through phone and email only. For more information, visit www.ppediesel.com.

ProMedia Events & Publishing Closes Office

ProMedia Events & Publishing, the parent company of the Holley NMRA Ford Nationals and NMCA Muscle Car Nationals, has closed its office, but remains operational as staff is working remotely. Personnel will be available via email only. Longer processing times are expected for merchandise orders, memberships, rule requests and other inquiries. For more information, visit www.promediapub.com.

Racecar Engineering Open for Business

Racecar Engineering, based in Lakeland, Florida, is still 100% operational, fully staffed, receiving and shipping parts and operating under all current city, county, state and federal mandated guidelines and best practices (self-distancing, cleaning, etc.) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company’s satellite midwest fulfilment center is also still operating and shipping parts to customers daily and is also working closely with all product manufacturers to keep its shelves full. Daily operations are subject to change at any time. For more information, visit www.racecareng.com.

Racequip Open for Business

Racequip has activated a plan that adheres to government guidelines while remaining open and in full operation. Most employees are working from home and the warehouse continues to ship product with safety precautions in place. For more information, visit www.racequip.com.

SpeedDirect Remains Open for Business

SpeedDirect remains open for business with no changes in levels of service or supply. All necessary precautions have been implemented, including remote work, sanitation and social distancing. Business can continue to be conducted by phone, email or via the company’s website. For more information, visit www.speeddirect.com.

SuperSprings Remains Operational

SuperSprings remains operational and open for orders. The company has implemented remote working for sales, customer service and order fulfillment departments, potentially impacting timeliness of order fulfillment. For more information, visit www.supersprings.com.

Transfer Flow to Focus on Making Critical Items

Transfer Flow manufactures several products that are considered essential, including fuel systems and components for wheelchair adaptive vans, DOT legal refueling tank systems, generator tanks and hydraulic tanks. The company’s production facility will focus on manufacturing these critical items during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, visit www.transferflow.com.

March 26, 2020

1-800EveryRim OEM Wheels will remain open in order to support essential national transportation needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

1-800EveryRim OEM Wheels Remains Open Through Coronavirus Crisis

1-800EveryRim OEM Wheels will remain open in order to support essential national transportation needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company stated that as per the March 19 CISA memorandum, which refers to “Critical Infrastructure Workforce” and “Employees supporting or enabling transportation functions,” it takes its responsibility seriously.

“Besides being open to provide factory original replacement wheels to our obvious essential need accounts, just two weeks ago, one of our tire dealer customers asked us to allow their customer, a nurse, to will call his own wheel as he was in a hurry to get to work. We were proud to provide the help," said President Billy Eordekian.

In response to the national emergency, the company has implemented precautionary measures to safeguard the well-being of customers, employees, and the community as it aligns with current recommendations from the CDC. For more information, visit www.1800everyrim.com.

Air Flow Research Temporarily Shuts Down

Air Flow Research (AFR) has temporarily shut down due to California Governor Gavin Newsome’s “Stay at Home Order” issued March 19. The shutdown means the company will not be fulfilling any outgoing shipments until the order is lifted. AFR is also formulating a plan to provide some services to customers remotely and will resume answering phones, e-mails and processing orders as soon as possible. For more information, visit www.airflowresearch.com.

Billet Specialties Closed Until April 7

Due to a state-wide shelter-in-place order in Illinois, Billet Specialties has closed until April 7 and will resume operations on April 8. Orders placed after March 20 will not be processed or shipped until the week of April 8. For more information, visit www.billetspecialties.com.

BorgWarner to Suspend Manufacturing Operations

BorgWarner will suspend manufacturing operations in North America and Europe, citing reduction in OEM manufacturing, which accounts for 70% of the company’s revenue. For more information, visit www.borgwarner.com.

Bridgestone Americas Announces Temporary Phased Shutdown of Manufacturing Facilities in North America and Latin America

Bridgestone Americas has announced a temporary phased shutdown of its manufacturing facilities in North America and Latin America. The temporary shutdown will began last weekend with all facilities planning to resume normal operations on or before Sunday, April 12. The company will continue to monitor the situation closely and adjust response plans and activities as necessary. The company has sufficient supply of product to meet customer demand and its distribution centers, plant warehouses and logistics teams will continue to fill orders, but is executing this temporary shutdown to align supply to the predicted demand in the market. For more information, visit www.bridgestoneamericas.com.

Bully Dog Performance Implements Remote Work Policy

Bully Dog Performance, as well as its parent company, Derive Systems, is implementing remote work and virtual collaboration and has cancelled all large gatherings and non-essential business travel. The company is also limiting visitors to all office locations. Advance approval is needed for any office visits. Sales and customer service is available and the company is shipping orders as usual. For more information, visit www.bullydog.com.

CAN Connect Conference Still on for September

Custom Automotive Network (CAN) President Tracie Nunez also sent out a letter regarding its CAN Connect conference, set to be held in September, which the organization continues to prepare for as scheduled. If interested in registering for the conference, the organization allows delayed billing (no payment required now) and any payments already are fully refundable until August 12—a date the CAN Board of Directors is currently reviewing. CAN offices are fully operational from multiple remote locations and during normal business hours. For more information, visit www.customautomotivenetwork.com.

Classic Industries Suspends Operations

Due to the current executive order (N-33-20) issued March 19, by California Governor Gavin Newsom, Classic Industries is suspending all operations and implementing the “shelter at home” policy for all employees. Offices, the showroom and warehouse will be temporarily closed, and shipping orders will cease. The Classic Industries website remains available 24/7, and all orders placed after March 20 will be processed and shipped once operations resume. For further assistance, contact info-desk@classicindustries.com.

Collision Industry Foundation Announces Fund Established for COVID-19 Victims

The Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) has announced the formation of a specific fund to assist those within the industry impacted by the Coronavirus, or COVID-19. On behalf of the industry, CIF has committed to initially fund $100,000 in assistance to help individual collision-repair professionals and their immediate families dealing with the effects of the virus.

“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by this worldwide pandemic,” expressed Michael Quinn, CIF board president and senior vice president of business development at AirPro Diagnostics. “The CIF is prepared to step forward with an initial commitment of $100,000 and encourages all stakeholders in the industry to contribute and support collision-repair employees, technicians and their families in the face of this crisis. One-hundred percent of your tax-deductible donations to CIF from now through May will be added to this COVID-19 fund, so we can help as many members of our industry as possible.”

If you need help, know someone that needs help or want to make a tax-deductible donation, visit www.collisionindustryfoundation.org.

Daystar Alters Production Schedule

Daystar has altered its production schedule, in addition to taking several other precautions to protect employees. While the company is still distributing products, it has shifted to a three-day-per-week, 12-hour workday production schedule and is encouraging remote work when possible. It has also provided employees with sanitizer and is following CDC guidelines. The company currently expects no disruption of production or distribution. For more information, visit www.daystar.com.

Factory Five Racing Closed Until April 8

Factory Five Racing will be closed for two weeks, effective March 24. The business plans to reopen on April 8. The closure could result in some shipping delays, according to President Dave Smith. For more information, visit www.factoryfive.com.

Fluidampr Continues to Manufacture and Ship Products

Fluidampr continues to operate and ship products, according to the company. However, it has cancelled all travel, implemented remote work where possible, temporarily suspended any visitors to its facility and instituted social distancing and additional sanitizing measures. The company continues to manufacture product and is taking and fulfilling orders. For more information, visit www.fluidampr.com.

Goodguys Rod and Custom Association Temporarily Closes Corporate Office

Goodguys Rod and Customs Association has temporarily closed its corporate office due to a shelter-in-place order currently being implemented in the San Francisco Bay area. During the shutdown, Goodguys employees will work remotely, causing longer than usual response times to any inquiries. New membership cards, event confirmations and refund requests will also not be processed or sent out until the office reopens. For more information, visit www.good-guys.com.

Harbor Freight Donating Protective Gear to Hospitals

Harbor Freight Tools has announced that it will donate its entire inventory of N95 masks, face shields and 5- and 7-mil nitrile gloves to hospitals with 24-hour emergency rooms due to an ongoing shortage of the equipment. The company has asked that hospital procurement departments contact the retailer via an online portal to determine if the company can make a donation. If you or someone you know does not work at a hospital, but would like to give the name of a hospital with a 24-hour emergency room, email the company at hospitalhelp@harborfreight.com with the hospital’s city and state in the subject line and Harbor Freight will follow up. Hospitals that can be assisted will be provided vouchers when the supplies are available for pickup at their local Harbor Freight store. For more information, visit www.harborfreight.com.

Industry Leaders Come Together to Help Career and Technical Education (CTE) Students Continue Learning During COVID-19 Crisis

The manufacturing industry is already facing a skilled labor shortage, and the onset of the COVID-19 crisis has presented an additional challenge for educational institutions, temporarily closing schools across the nation and interrupting face-to-face learning. To help meet the challenge of building the industry’s future workforce, the newly formed CTE Coalition, led by Lincoln Electric, Tooling U-SME, NC3, camInstructor, Haas Automation and SkillsUSA, mobilized to create the website Keep CTE Moving—a central portal where instructors and students can go to access much-needed resources, including hundreds of online classes, videos and instructional materials in areas such as machining, welding, mechatronics, industry 4.0 and programming. All online materials are produced and supplied by the coalition partners with the majority being available at no charge for the next 30 days. The goal is to help career and technical education faculty and students continue their teaching and learning in a new virtual environment as quickly as possible. Coalition partners are also providing recorded sessions with CTE instructors highlighting best practices in how to effectively utilize eLearning and online resources to educate students and quickly transition to a virtual learning environment.   

Ernst Prost

LIQUI MOLY Offers Bonus for Every Employee Instead of Short-Time Work

LIQUI MOLY is not reacting to the coronavirus crisis with short-time work or layoffs, but is instead paying a bonus of EUR 1,000 to each employee. The company now has almost its entire administration working from home. This move is intended to protect employees while keeping production running.

“Today, we have largely been able to ensure in all corporate areas that we are mastering this balancing act between preventive health care and continued work,” LIQUI MOLY Managing Director Ernst Prost wrote to the workforce.

While other companies are having to deal with short-time work or are considering making cuts, the LIQUI MOLY boss is setting a counterpoint. “The current developments are not leaving us unaffected either; the economic consequences will be brutal. That is precisely why we must now do our part to solve this crisis with our brains and wits, with commitment and diligence, and definitely with courage and confidence.”

All employees worldwide will receive the same amount for this bonus, from the department manager in Germany to the warehouse clerk in South Africa. For more information, visit www.liqui-moly.com.

Livernois Motorsports and Engineering Deemed “Essential”

Livernois Motorsports and Engineering has been deemed “essential” and will continue to function, but will operate on a limited schedule with limited staff. Staff will also not give walk-throughs to new or existing customers unless it is a pre-approved appointment. For more information, visit www.livernoismotorsports.com.

McLeod Racing Fully Operational

McLeod Racing remains fully operational and continues to build and ship product, while practicing safe protocols to protect employees. Tech and sales lines continue to operate normally while staff works remotely. For more information, visit www.mcleodracing.com.

Melling Engine Parts to Minimize Operations

Melling Engine Parts announced it will minimize operations for the next three weeks following a stay at home order from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, but will remain open and shipping product with a reduced staff. Customers may experience a delay in shipments. For more information, visit www.melling.com.

Mittler Bros. Machine & Tool Continues Operations

Mittler Bros. Machine & Tool continues to operate, according to a letter from Paul Mittler, although upcoming metal-shaping and metal-working classes, hosted by the company, for March and April have been postponed. For more information visit www.mittlerbros.com.

Neuspeed Closes Retail Location

Neuspeed, located in California, is still operating, but has closed its retail location. The company will also not accept personal or will-call pick up, except by shipping carriers. Reduced on-site staff has also led the company to extend its shipping time from 24 to 48 hours, but will continue to process and ship orders as long as parcel carries are still in operation. For more information visit www.neuspeed.com.

Pep Boys Deemed Essential Business by Federal Government, Remains Open

As a major employer and provider of essential products and services as deemed by the Federal Government and the applicable local, county and state orders, Pep Boys remains open and committed to providing the critical parts and services in its communities. The company continues to support the vehicles of first responders, medical professionals and delivery drivers who provide food, medicine and other essential items during this difficult time. Because local curfews may be in place, patrons should call their local store before visiting. The company has also launched the following measures:

• A touchless drop-off and pick-up process in its service bays, while also providing gloves, seat and steering wheel covers and floor mats for vehicles.
• Curbside pickup is now available, where permitted, for parts orders placed online.
• All stores and distribution centers have implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfecting practices, while also practicing social distancing.
• Team members have been advised not to come to work if they are feeling ill and have been provided a medical hotline if they are experiencing symptoms.
• Corporate offices are all working hard remotely to continue to support the business.

For more information, visit www.pepboys.com.

Racing Power Co. Operates With Minimum Staffing

Racing Power Co. is subject to a shelter-in-place order in California, but will continue to operate with minimum warehouse staff on site. USRPC.com will still accept online retail orders, but fulfillment may take up to 24 hours.

SuperPro Still Operational

SuperPro is still operating but has taken precautionary measures to facilitate remote work where possible and social distancing for staff still operating at its California, Australia and New Zealand facilities. For more information, visit www.superpro.com.au.

Turn 14 Distribution Centers Remain Operational

According to Turn 14 Distribution, its distribution centers in Pennsylvania, Nevada and Texas remain fully operational, while sales, accounting and support staff work remotely. Employees on the job at the distribution centers are now working on separated shifts, the company said, and professional cleaners have been hired to clean high-traffic and high-contact areas of its facilities between shifts. Will Call service at all three distribution centers has also been suspended until further notice. For more information, visit www.turn14.com.

UMI Performance Closes

Pennsylvania-based UMI Performance has closed, citing the state’s mandatory shutdown. The company is closed until further notice and will fulfill any in-process or new orders once production is allowed to resume. For more information, visit www.umiperformance.com.

VP Racing Fuels Continues to Power Global Motorsports

VP Racing Fuels Inc. continues to supply race fuels, coolants and lubricants to race series and teams, despite the economic challenges caused by COVID-19. According to the company, VP has maintained sufficient inventory and transportation to supply all professional and amateur race customers around the world. Over the past several weeks, VP has signed new agreements with World Racing League and American Flat Track and continues to fuel series and events that are recognized around the world. For more information, visit www.vpracingfuels.com.