Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:20

SEMA Scholarship Education Apply TodayBy Ellen McKoy

Amy Kurr knew little about cars, until she bought her first ride. The '86 Chevy Caprice Classic captured enthusiasts' attention in her suburban Minneapolis hometown, sparking her interest in vintage vehicles and the TLC it takes to maintain them.

"I was intrigued by the mechanical and chemical work that went into maintaining antique vehicles," said Kurr, whose passion for science dates to childhood experiments fabricating plastic bugs and candles with an Easy Bake Oven. Experience as a high school athlete and first responder furthered her understanding of safety risks caused by parts failures and polymer degradation. 

Those interests led to a Bachelor of Science degree in materials engineering at Iowa State and a Master of Science degree from Case Western. Now a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, her research centers on engineering science and technology.

"My focus is on electrical cables, the impact of high temperatures on cables, the potential for degradation and the flammability aspects to ensure these components function properly with electrical vehicle batteries," she noted.

Although the university's corporate partnerships afford research access to various industries, including automotive, SEMA wasn't on Kurr's radar until an advisor suggested applying for a scholarship.

"I was surprised I hadn't heard about SEMA until grad school," said Kurr. "I was excited to receive the scholarship but more excited about attending the Show. I knew it would be beneficial."

An Immersive Experience

For starters, Kurr contacted Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager, recognition programs. He connected her to Scorpion EV's Karen Salvaggio, a member of the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)

"Karen opened my mind. I learned about ETTN. She helped me connect with Luis [Morales] and Ben [Kaminsky] at the SEMA Garage. In October, Ben gave me a tour of the Detroit Garage, which helped me understand how SEMA helps the aftermarket."

At the Show, Kurr hit the ground running. From the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Gear-Up Girl event and ETTN Lunch-N-Learn to EV-centric seminars, the Future Leaders Network (FLN) Reception and the SEMA Banquet, Kerr took advantage of every opportunity to network and engage.

"Everyone was supportive and welcoming," said Kurr. "The energy and passion were inspiring. Even before I went to the Show, I had a sense of community. Chris and the Student Program made sure we got connected.

"I would have applied for the scholarship even if it was just an invitation to the Show. The scholarship is free money, but the selling point is the networking and the contacts you make that far outweigh the dollar value. There are 160,00 people at the Show--you can find your people and make your own community."

Limited Time Remains to Apply for a SEMA Scholarship

The 2024 SEMA Scholarship application period for students pursuing careers in the automotive or performance parts industries closes this Friday, March 1, at sema.org/scholarships. The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund supports career development and access to the automotive industry by offering financial awards of up to $5,000 to help foster the next generation of industry leaders and innovators.

For more information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit sema.org/scholarships prior to the Friday, March 1, deadline.

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 09:11

The SEMA Scholarship program is seeking passionate individuals to volunteer as a SEMA Scholarship judge. Signups are open now at this link and close on March 22.

The SEMA Scholarship program supports career development and access in the automotive industry, offering financial assistance of up to $5,000 to students preparing for careers in the automotive field.

Scholarship judges

Sign up by March 22 to review scholarship applications and assist with selecting award winners.

Volunteer judges play a crucial role, reviewing scholarship applications and assisting with selecting deserving award winners. In addition to making a meaningful impact, volunteers get the opportunity to read inspiring stories from passionate students who are eager to pursue careers in the automotive aftermarket.

Volunteer hours are flexible and can be performed around the volunteer's schedule. Judging begins on April 3 and continues until May 13. Learn more and apply to volunteer here. To learn more about the SEMA Scholarship program, visit sema.org/scholarships.

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 08:08

FLN General Membership MeetingBy Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is hosting an online General Membership Meeting on Thursday, March 7, at 10:00 a.m. PST/1:00 p.m. EST.

Open to aftermarket professionals aged 39 and under, the meeting will be the ideal time to hear about FLN's current priorities for members, which include upcoming networking events, member resources and the 2024 Professional Development Program. Attendees will connect with the select committee, discover volunteer opportunities and walk away with new ways to grow their network.

FLN membership is open to all SEMA business member employees aged 39 and under at no cost. All current and prospective members are encouraged to attend, as it's a great way to connect with a thriving network and explore opportunities for career advancement.

Register here.

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 07:35

ICEBy the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Kansas House of Representatives has approved SEMA-supported legislation to ensure consumers' choice of vehicle power plants and fuel by preventing a state agency, county or city from limiting access to internal combustion engines. 

The House Federal and State Affairs Committee recently held a hearing for the House's version of the bill (HB 2783), where it passed with overwhelming support. Following a vote by the full House, the bill received quick approval and now awaits consideration by the Kansas Senate. 

Kansas lawmakers passed a similar resolution last year, but this year's bill will codify this into law.  

SEMA believes that Kansans, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. This effort promotes consumer choice, fosters innovation and protects jobs. The Senate's version of the bill (SB 471) awaits consideration by the Committee on Federal and State Affairs. 

Use this link to send a letter to lawmakers supporting this pro-industry legislation. 

For more information, please contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 07:33

By Ashley Reyes 

Aftermarket companies and industry professionals still have time to access future engineers and students looking to jumpstart their careers in the automotive specialty-equipment industry by signing up now for one of two upcoming career fairs held at the SEMA Garage. 

ETTN SAE Career Fair

Participating businesses will share their expertise with university students interested in careers in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Hosted by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN), the career fairs will take place at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, and SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan, on March 16, from 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. in their respective time zones. Participating businesses will share their expertise with university students who are actively building vehicles for SAE Collegiate Design Competitions, help them explore career opportunities and inspire them in their career paths.

Attending the event is free for SEMA members and is a great chance for businesses to connect face-to-face with potential candidates, put your company name out in the industry and network with other aftermarket businesses and industry professionals. The SEMA Garage team will also provide a tour of its facility showcasing the state-of-the-art equipment used to assist SEMA members with product development. Lunch will be provided.

Register your company at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

Register your company at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan.

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 07:00

ETTN LogoBy Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) is hosting an online General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. PST/3:00 p.m. EST.

Automotive aftermarket engineers, programmers and product developers are invited to attend the event to hear new updates from the network. Attendees will learn about upcoming education opportunities focused on emerging vehicle trends and new technology, discover open volunteer positions in the industry and hear the network's plans for the 2024 SEMA Show. There will also be an open discussion, connecting ETTN select committee leaders and members-at-large.

ETTN membership is free to automotive aftermarket engineers, programmers and product developers who are employed by a SEMA-member company. All current and prospective members are encouraged to attend, as it's a great way to tap into career and business resources.

Secure your spot here.

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 06:46

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently spotted the Buick Enclave completely uncovered near the General Motors Warren Tech Center in Michigan.

Without any camouflage, the vehicle's new design elements were on full display, including a front end that draws inspiration from the Buick Wildcat EV concept unveiled last year. While the concept was initially focused on electric power, its styling influences can be seen in the gas-powered '25 Buick Enclave.

Buick Enclave

Remaining in the fullsize, five-door crossover utility vehicle (CUV) category, the '25 Enclave has a profile that appears more masculine and truck-like compared to the current model, according to the new images. Inside, the vehicle is equipped with a range of new features, including Super Cruise, GM's semi-autonomous driving system, insiders said, as well as a digital stalk-like shifter on the steering column, reminiscent of the Cadillac Lyriq.

Other reported features include a curved display spanning the instrument panel and center stack. The new infotainment system in the '25 Buick Enclave is also expected to have a distinctive appearance, likely drawing parallels to the Buick Envista and Encore GX.

Thu, 02/29/2024 - 06:39

By SEMA News Editors

Legacy EV Launches Powertrain Kit for Under $10K

Legacy EV, a provider of aftermarket electric vehicle (EV) applications and educational programs, has introduced an EV electrification kit for under $10,000.

The kit was developed from the powertrain components of a Nissan Leaf, repurposing components of the first EV available to the mass market, the company said.

Legacy EV Kit

In addition to using the Nissan components, the Legacy EV kit includes an aftermarket vehicle control unit that manages charging, motor control, brake lights, reverse lights, pre-charging, HV relays and more. Installation can include the existing gearbox to run half-shaft axles for front-engine, front-wheel-drive, or rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive donor vehicles. Alternatively, it utilizes a TorqueBox for single-speed gear reduction, or a manual transmission adaptor plate if owners want to retain the factory transmission.

For more information, visit legacyev.com.

Advanced Clutch Technology Wins Turn 14 Distribution 2023 Supplier of the Year Award

Turn 14 Distribution, the Horsham, Pennsylvania-based performance parts distributor, has named Advanced Clutch Technology as its 2023 Supplier of the Year.

Turn 14 ACT

The Supplier of the Year award is presented annually to Turn 14 Distribution's leading supplier to recognize its merit in the industry and its role in the supply chain, the company said, and considers all aspects of its relationship, focusing on sustainable long-term relationships. Advanced Clutch Technology embodied the essence of the award, committing itself to sales growth, product innovation and collaboration with Turn 14 Distribution throughout the year, distributor representatives said.

Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT) designs, engineers and develops clutch kits and flywheels for track and street performance applications.

For more information, visit turn14.com or advancedclutch.com.


Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

Tue, 02/27/2024 - 13:09

By Luis Morales, SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology

In conjunction with the National Truck Equipment Association Work Truck Week 2024, the SEMA Garage will be moderating and presenting an all-new educational course: Considerations for Driver Assistance Technology and Second-Stage Commercial Vehicles.

Work Truck Week SEMA Garage ADAS seminar

The purpose of the course is to provide an in-depth overview of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and their functions, review current ADAS test methodologies, and provide data-driven guidance for upfitting vehicles with ADAS technologies. 

The specific course objectives are to: 

  • Educate attendees on ADAS systems, functions and testing. 
  • Inform attendees of emerging ADAS standards. 
  • Provide guidance for upfitting vehicles with ADAS technologies. 

The following industry subject-matter experts will be in attendance: 

  • Mike Muller - Presenter and moderator of the panel.
  • Cody Harris - Presenter, panelist and subject-matter expert on heavy-duty truck ADAS testing from the Transportation Research Company.
  • Bill Chew - Presenter, panelist and subject-matter expert on Ford Transit vans who will speak about ADAS guidance for second-stage manufacturers. 
  • Kevin Sumrak - Presenter, panelist and subject-matter expert for Wabash will speak about upfitting of ADAS technology integration.
  • Luis Morales, SEMA director of vehicle technology, and Mike Mohacsi, SEMA vice president, garages and OEM Relations will also both be in attendance to participate in panel discussions and Q&A sessions. 

Event Information: 

Course Title: Considerations for Driver Assistance Technology and Second-Stage Commercial Vehicles
Course Location: Room 130, NTEA Work Truck Week, Indiana Convention Center 
Course Date and Time: Tuesday, March 5, 1:30 p.m. EST
Scheduled Topics: 

  • Overview of ADAS systems.
  • Heavy-duty ADAS test methodologies. 
  • Review of relevant federal motor vehicle safety standards. 
  • Aftermarket ADAS functionality of modified vehicles research – presented by the SEMA Garage. 
  • Example guidance for upfitting vehicles. 
  • Upfitter ADAS technology integration. 

Developed by experts in the field, this course is an exciting opportunity to stay at the forefront of vehicle technology and engage with a group of like-minded peers. Join us! 

To learn more about the event and this session, click HERE, or visit worktruckweek.com.

Tue, 02/27/2024 - 12:18

WTSBCBy Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension, & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host a virtual Coffee and Conversation networking event on Thursday, March 7, at 9:00 a.m. PST. 

The council's rebrand has opened up new opportunities for members to learn about issues facing the wheel, tire, suspension and brake markets. During the discussion, participants will share their expertise on challenges impacting their business, grow their network and create valuable business connections.

"WTSBC Coffee and Conversation events are excellent and useful time invested," said past participant Kelly Austin of 9six9 Wheels. "The discussion is short and packed with nuggets to help mostly anyone stay connected in the business." 

Discussion topics will be available to start the conversation, but attendees are encouraged to also bring a topic that impacts their business. Past topics have included Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), legislative changes, new vehicle technology and more. 

Sign up now to start growing your network!

If you have topics that you would like to have covered, email them to WTSBC Director Nicole Bradle at NicoleB@sema.org.