Tue, 09/20/2022 - 22:47

Project VehiclesExhibitors of the 2022 SEMA Show are invited to expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list. The list connects manufacturers with builders looking to create or complete a vehicle project.

The list, which will be updated in SEMA News, features product offers and contact information provided by confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors. Builders interested in obtaining a product use the information to contact exhibitors directly. With each project vehicle required to be supported by a current 2022 SEMA Show exhibitor, all product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2022 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form.

Exhibitors: Each submission will appear on a first-come, first-served basis. As participation increases, all submissions will also be archived on www.SEMAShow.com.

Note: For verification purposes, the Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2022 SEMA Show.

View the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list.

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 22:46

Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show, the premier gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Taking place November 1–4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2022 SEMA Show will build upon the positive momentum following last year’s event, which successfully connected the $47.8 billion industry in person in what was the largest automotive trade show in North America since the pandemic shut everything down in 2020.

“The SEMA Show is where industry professionals go to grow existing relationships, create new ones and push their businesses forward,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “Exhibitors are eager to showcase their products and services to the tens of thousands of qualified professionals in attendance.”

Anticipation for this year's SEMA Show ramped up in recent weeks as exhibitors selected their booth locations during Priority Space Selection, a weeks-long process that took place May 2–18.

“Enthusiasm for the 2022 Show continues to exceed last year’s, with more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibitor space already committed for the 2022 SEMA Show and confirmed spaces running 25% above last year,” said Warren Kosikov, SEMA vice president of sales.

Attendees at the 2022 SEMA Show will learn about the latest products, trends and technology in the industry from manufacturers exhibiting throughout the entire Las Vegas Convention Center, including the surrounding parking lots. Educational seminars led by industry experts and networking events that bring market niches together will also be available during the four-day trade event.

“Our industry continues to thrive despite current challenges in the marketplace, and last year’s event proved that the value of conducting business and networking face-to-face can never be replaced,” said Gattuso. “Our mission is to help continue that momentum by providing an unparalleled experience that builds meaningful business relationships.”

Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show is offered in three categories—attendee, exhibitor and media—and everyone must qualify to attend. Attendees are encouraged to register early at www.semashow.com/register so they can secure their credentials and receive updates on breaking news from the 2022 SEMA Show.

Attendees are encouraged to check the floorplan to see where the companies they need to interact with will be located at the 2022 SEMA Show.

For more information about qualifying documents and the 2022 SEMA Show, log on to www.semashow.com.

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 11:07

 

SEMA Show exhibitors and attendees preparing for the 2022 SEMA Show can lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rate now by booking in the SEMA Show Block.

Making hotel reservations in the Block provides you with the most affordable and convenient options for a wide range of hotels located on and off the Strip.

Vdara

A number of non-casino properties, such as Vdara, are offering discounted rates for SEMA Show guests.

All of the hotels available through the SEMA Show Block come with a low-price guarantee. To help ensure that your price remains the lowest, SEMA will price-match lower advertised rates, even after your reservations are set. Whether you're looking for your favorite place to stay, or for a hotel within close proximity to the Show, you can book with confidence knowing you will get the rooms you need at the the most affordable price available.

The SEMA Show also provides shuttle service to and from the Show for the hotels listed that are not within walking distance to the Las Vegas Convention Center.

There are more than 45 hotels available in the block. For more information on the hotels listed below, including rating, price per night and distance from the Las Vegas Convention Center, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Looking for a quiet, no-frills hotel stay? There are a number of non-casino properties that are offering discounted rates for SEMA Show guests.

Check these out and book today:

  • Courtyard Las Vegas Convention Center – $290 per night
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Convention Center Las Vegas $298 – per night
  • Hilton Grand Vacations Flamingo – $282 per night
  • Hilton Grand Vacations on Paradise (Convention Center) – $281 per night
  • Hilton Grand Vacations Club on Strip – $225 per night
  • Las Vegas Marriott – $309 per night
  • Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel – $314 per night
  • Residence Inn Las Vegas Convention Center by Marriott – $279 per night
  • Spring Hill Suites Las Vegas Convention Center – $299 per night
  • Trump – $234 per night
  • Vdara – $238 per night
  • Westin – $223 per night

Book your hotel now!

To reserve your booth for the 2022 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 10:50
Tue, 09/20/2022 - 09:50
Ford

Ford unveiled a 1,500-kW electric transporter looking much like a race car at the Goodwood Festival of Speed—and spies recently caught the car testing on the Nürburgring race track in Germany. The Ford Pro Electric SuperVan features four electric motors powered by a liquid-cooled 50 kWh battery and speeds from 0–60 in less than 2 seconds.

Released by Ford’s commercial vehicles division Ford Pro, the “SuperVan” takes clues from the more down-to-usability Transit Custom, but vows way more attention. “This incredible demonstrator vehicle takes E-Transit Custom’s advanced engineering and distinctive look to a whole new level and is high-speed proof of the power of Ford Pro’s connected services ecosystem,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe.

Behind it, however, was the Ford Performance unit and electric racing specialists STARD in Austria, with exterior design by the Ford Design team in Cologne, Germany. They took the chassis of the new Transit Custom but redesigned almost everything else. Ford had presented the electrified Transit Custom van this May as a PHEV with the zero-emission Transit Custom slated to launch in 2023 with a range of nearly 250 miles.

The Electric SuperVan is of course already all-electric and also otherwise very unlike the E-Transit. The 50 kWh high-performance battery, for example, is not a harbinger of the energy storage system in the upcoming production model. The battery is designed to provide enough power for show appearances like Goodwood and to deliver enough power for the four electric motors.

However, Ford does not provide details on the battery and the motors. They only state that in addition to the liquid cooling of the battery, the customized drive management were essential factors in bringing high maximum power and acceleration to 60 in less than two seconds on the road.

The drive system has five modes designed for driving on the road: track, drag, drift and rally.

Still, motorsport features (there’s also double-wishbone suspension at each corner, a full roll cage and racing seats) aside, Ford Pro hopes to demonstrate enhanced connectivity and even cargo capability. The Electric SuperVan can send real-time data to software for remote vehicle management, using Ford Pro systems used at real-life businesses. Similarly, Ford Performance trackside engineers can monitor the Electric SuperVan via dedicated management software that translates live data into insights on speed, lap times and vehicle systems.

However, Ford Pro’s 125,000 clients may rest assured that the Electric SuperVan is a one-off demonstrator building on three previous ICE SuperVans. “The chance to be part of the iconic SuperVan story and reimagine what it could be in the 21st century was a dream opportunity,” said Amko Leenarts, director, design, Ford of Europe.

Ford

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 09:40
Oracle
Brendan Bohac

Oracle Lighting Hires Brendan Bohac as Marketing Manager

Oracle Lighting has named Brendan Bohac as the company’s new marketing manager, Bohac has a B.A. in communications from the University of Kentucky. In this position, he will be responsible for all aspects of Oracle Lighting’s marketing efforts, including managing SEO and public/media relations teams, creating and executing email marketing campaigns, coordinating promotional and trade show activities and more.

SSV Works Launches New Website

SSV Works has announced the launch of the new SSVWorks.com. Compared to the previous website, the new ssvworks.com has better overall aesthetics and organization and easier navigation for customers and internal system linking that keeps products consistently up-to-date. During the purchase process with the new Shopify platform, zero-interest financing is now available. Popular payments, such as Amazon Pay, Apple Pay and more are now available.

NPWNPW Acquires Hi Tech Auto Parts, Rebranded Johnny’s Auto Parts

NPW—now in their new facility in Miami—has announced its second acquisition and expansion in South Florida in 2022 with the addition of Hi Tech Auto Parts. The deal closed September 12, and the location has been re-named to Johnny’s Auto Parts. It is the second store to be branded as Johnny’s Auto Parts by NPW in South Florida.

Pedal Commander Obtains CARB EO for Its ’11+ Ford Gas and Ford Diesel Throttle Response Systems

Vitalen Auto Performance (DBA Pedal Commander) has announced it has received official notice that a California Air Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order (EO) D-840-1 and D-840-3 was issued on September 6, for Pedal Commander’s ’11+ Ford Gas and Ford Diesel Throttle Response Systems. The EO D-840-1 and D-840-3 affirms that it has been found not to reduce the effectiveness of the applicable vehicle pollution control systems and, therefore, is exempt from the prohibitions of Section 27156 of the Vehicle Code. The CARB EO is recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is accepted in all 50 states, meaning the Pedal Commander can be legally purchased and installed in every state, including California. Larry Sartore, of Vitalen Auto Performance, was the driving force behind obtaining the CARB EO. It is illegal to sell aftermarket parts without a CARB EO in California and many other states if the part affects emissions or the emissions-control system.

RNR Tire Express Awarded with Prestigious Honors at RTO World 2022

RNR Tire Express

At RTO World 2022, RNR Tire Express was recognized for its unparalleled operations and advancement of the rent-to-own industry when it received two of the year’s most prestigious awards.

RTO World 2022 recently wrapped up its fifth annual national trade show and convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, and during the Hall of Honor Inductees ceremony, RNR Tire Express was recognized for its unparalleled operations and advancement of the rent-to-own industry when it received two of the year’s most prestigious awards.

Tracy Cintron, franchise director for RNR Tire Express, took home the APRO Steve Kruse Award in recognition of her extraordinary lifelong service and commitment to the RTO industry.

Candice Hill, an RNR Tire Express franchisee out of Springdale, Arkansas, and the president of the Arkansas Rental Dealers Association, won State Association of the Year for her work to advance the industry within her home state.

Adam Sutton, president of RNR Tire Express, was named 2022s APRO Rental Dealer of the Year, not only for his work to expand the boundaries of rent-to-own and aid in the growth of one of the nation’s leading tire and wheel franchise retailers, but also for having served as a mentor and a “beacon” for emerging industry names and concepts over the years.

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

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 09:38

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has requested comments that identify online and physical markets to be considered for inclusion in the 2022 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy. The Notorious Markets List identifies examples of online and physical markets that reportedly engage in or facilitate substantial copyright piracy or trademark counterfeiting.

If your business has specific examples of online markets that have engaged in or facilitated copyright piracy or trademark counterfeiting, please contact Caroline Fletcher at carolinef@sema.org to be incorporated into SEMA’s comments.

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 09:34

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a SEMA-supported bill (AB 1951) that would have provided a full sales and use tax exemption for the purchase of manufacturing and research and development (R&D) equipment not exceeding $200 million.

If enacted, the exemption would have changed the current, narrowly applied exemption, and focused on improving cost competitiveness to spur investment in California. Accounting for both local and state taxes, California’s ranks among the highest tax rates in the country.

In his veto message, Gov. Newsom noted that while he supported the intent of the bill, it would have resulted in significant tax revenue losses for local governments, potentially imperially other essential services, such as health, safety, welfare and transportation services.

For more information, please contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 08:40

By Della Domingo

Emmitt Smith
Emmitt Smith

Emmitt Smith, the NFL legendary running back who became a NASCAR Xfinity Series team co-owner last summer, will headline the 2022 SEMA Show Educational Program’s Friday Enthusiast Track. The new seven-session series will feature celebrities and iconic personalities as they share personal stories that will inspire and entertain Showgoers.

Smith, who will be joined on the Paradise Event Center stage by television personality Chris Jacobs from the hit show “Overhaulin’” on Friday, November 4, at 8:00 a.m., will discuss career opportunities in motorsports and the importance of paying it forward. His race team, Jesse Iwuji Motorsports, is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, and seeks to break down barriers in motorsports.

“Through Jesse Iwuji Motorsports, we want bring awareness to the many opportunities available in motorsports,” said Smith. “We want to inspire and educate people of all walks of life to work hard and pursue their dreams.”

SEMA Showgoers will hear from Smith about what motivated him to partner with Iwuji as a NASCAR Xfinity Series team co-owner and how they are supporting minorities, youth and the service-member community.

The SEMA Education Enthusiast Track will continue with sessions throughout the day on how to secure sponsors for project vehicles, protecting the right to modify, land-use sustainability and more. The Enthusiast Track is open at no cost to all credentialed SEMA Showgoers, including top enthusiasts who are SEMA Individual Members attending through the SEMA Ignited Friday Experience.

“We’re excited about the Friday Enthusiast Track; it is the first time the SEMA Show Education Program has dedicated a series of seminars to appeal specifically to enthusiasts,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA Education director. “Given that this is such a passion-driven industry filled with professionals who love their jobs, the Enthusiast Track will be especially entertaining and engaging. Attendees will leave with practical information that speaks to this passion.”

For details about the SEMA Show Education Program and a complete schedule of seminars available, visit www.semashow.com.

For more information about the SEMA Ignited Friday Experience, visit www.semaignited.com.

Tue, 09/20/2022 - 08:23

By Ashley Reyes

Kail WithersThe SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Kail Withers as the council’s newest spotlight volunteer. Withers is the business manager for Armorlite, a complete replacement floor system for Jeep Wrangler JK-model vehicles.

Get to know Withers in his interview with SEMA below:

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?

Kail Withers: I have a very broad range of taste when it comes to vehicles, but the one thing about off-road is the skill it takes to build something that can endure the roughest of conditions. It is the ultimate test.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA?

KW: I came from years in the hot-rod industry and made many good connections through the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA). Coming into the truck and off-road industry I was starting out, in some cases, as the new guy. In the HRIA, I met new up-and-comers who joined, so I figured this would be a great way to get going.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?

KW: Working in an industry that you are passionate about makes it easy to be engaged, but sometimes the lines of personal life and work life can blur. Finding a balance is the key to not get burned out. Use your passion as experience, but remember the industry is full of people with varying style and experience. There is no absolute one direction, so try to step outside of your comfort zone a little.

SEMA: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?

KW: I work with mostly new vehicles right now, but my passion has always been the old stuff.

Right now I want to build a tube chassis Baja truck with either a C10 or F-100 body. Something that has timeless style but has chassis that will take the dunes at over 100 mph. Powertrain would likely be twin turbo LS based because that is what I know, but I would be open to other powertrains.

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA’s social media, SEMA News and future TORA-member updates.