By Jason Catullo

When the 2022 SEMA Show opens November 1, attendees will be greeted with a new look and layout of the Show’s special attractions featured out front of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). Part of the expanded experience includes new interactive displays outside of the LVCC’s West Hall.

Known as SEMA West and designed to heat the blood of the enthusiast within all Show attendees, the area’s must-see action includes exhibits from Formula 1, Ride With Us, SCORE Baja and TIS Off-Road.

Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Experience

The Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Experience will feature F-1 driving and reaction simulators for attendees to test their skill, an engine build by Red Bull Racing who will fire it up for the crowd, and Q&A sessions with the team's engineers and mechanics.

The Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Experience is available all week of the SEMA Show, November 1–4.

Ride With Us

The Motorcycle Industry Council will bring its Ride With Us motorcycling experience to the SEMA Show for the first time.

At Ride With Us, attendees will learn the basics of riding a motorcycle on a closed course designed for SEMA Show West. With safety gear provided and special instructors on site, Ride With Us is designed to have even first-time riders up and riding in less than 45 minutes.

SCORE Baja 1000 Experience

The SCORE Baja 1000 Experience is a vibrant display of vintage and current off-road vehicles and experiences that represent the storied history of the Baja 1000. Vehicles will include one of the original SCORE Trophy Trucks driven by brothers Dave and Paul Simon, the unlimited Class 1 Sandmaster driven by Bobby Ferro, the No. 1 SCORE Trophy Truck of off-road racing’s G.O.A.T. Rob MacCachren, a Terrible Herbst Motorsports Trophy Truck Spec vehicle, Christopher Polvoorde’s pre-runner truck, and Michael Gaughan’s magnificent Dodge Ram Charger pre-run SUV.

The experience will also feature the official SCORE Transporter, as well as the massive SCOREvision LED screen showing SCORE racing highlights, movies like “Dust to Glory,” the SCORE start/finish digital arch, and the colorful SCORE Store offering SCORE merchandise.

TIS Off-Road and Lifestyle Showcase

TIS Off-Road, led by urban car scene veteran and iconic entrepreneur Myles Kovacs, will bring its Off-Road and Lifestyle Showcase to the 2022 SEMA Show. For the first time ever, attendees will be able to experience new segments of car culture never before seen at the SEMA Show. Exhibitions will include Low Rider Hopping, Mini Truck Bed Dancing and Truck Drifting. The exhibit will also feature more than 55 of the world’s top show trucks set to make their debut. See the automotive works of art performing daily at the SEMA Show, Tuesday–Friday, November, 1–4, Las Vegas.

Register for the 2022 SEMA Show at www.SEMAShow.com/register. For more information about the SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By Ashley Reyes

With the worldwide automotive industry gathered in Las Vegas for the 2022 SEMA Show, attending the annual trade show is the best time to meet other professionals and build connections. SEMA council and network activities are ideal for connecting with others in similar market segments and niches. Showgoers can now reserve their attendance for the following events:

Wind down from a busy day on the SEMA Show floor by connecting with other council and network members through open conversation and learning about SEMA’s council and network programs and resources.

Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)

ARMO/HRIA Vehicle Unveilings: November 1, at 10:00 a.m., Central Hall, Booth #23295

ARMO Industry Reception: November 1, at 5:30 p.m., Westgate Pavilions 9–11

This ’70s-themed social event is highly anticipated among Showgoers in the restoration market and includes an awards ceremony recognizing individuals and companies whose work has made a significant impact on the restoration industry.

SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)

ETTN Tech ’n Toast: November 3, at 8:00 a.m., Upper North Hall N235

This energized networking breakfast features open discussion on ideas and concerns related to automotive technology.

ETTN Lunch & Learn: November 3, at 12:30 p.m., Upper North Hall N235

This event features presentations on battery design basics; material technology, surface finishes and measuring equipment; SEMA Garage Detroit resources and opportunities to discuss and learn about the latest automotive technology trends.

Future Leaders Network (FLN)

FLN Reception: November 1, at 5:30 p.m., Top of Renaissance Parking Garage

This event will bring together young professionals to celebrate the strides they are making in the automotive aftermarket. An awards ceremony will also take place to honor top individuals.

FLN General Membership Meeting Breakfast: November 2, at 8:00 a.m., West Hall W238

FLN members and prospective members will grow and expand their network, connect with the council's select committee and learn the many ways FLN can assist them and their businesses.

Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)

HRIA Reception: November 2, at 5:15 p.m., Westgate Pavilions 9–11

This event will bring together colleagues, leaders and enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for the hot-rod customization hobby. An awards ceremony will take place to honor top individuals and companies.

Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)

PRO Cup Challenge: November 1-4, Show hours, PRO Booth – West Hall #50185

See the seven PRO Cup Challenge vehicle builds.

PRO Reception: November 1, at 5:00 p.m., West Hall 3rd Floor Terrace

This event will bring together colleagues, leaders and enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for new-vehicle accessorization. An awards ceremony will also take place to honor top individuals and companies.

PRO Booth Happy Hour: November 2, at 4:00 p.m., West Hall PRO Booth #50185

Network with automotive restyling professionals during the SEMA Show PRO Booth Happy Hour. This fun event will include the PRO Cup Challenge winner announcements.

Lunch with the PROs: November 3, at 11:30 a.m., West Hall 219

Restyling businesses will connect with one another and learn about the benefits available to council members. Discussion topics include the current state of the industry and roadblocks in the restyling industry.

SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)

SBN All Female Build Reveal: November 1, at 12:30 p.m., West Hall Booth #57061

SBN Gear-Up Girl Networking Event: November 2, at 4:30 p.m., West Hall W210 Entry Way

Reserved only for women, the event serves as a networking opportunity for professionals to give back and share advice with today’s female youth.  

SBN Reception: November 2, at 5:30 p.m., West Hall 210 Entry Way

This event will celebrate the strides women are making in the automotive aftermarket. Attendees will connect with the SBN select committee and learn about resources and how to get involved.

Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)

TORA Feature Vehicle Trail: November 1-4, Show hours, Outside walkway between West Hall and North Hall

TORA Happy Hour: November 1, at 4:00 p.m., West Hall Members Lounge, Fueled by TORA

Wind down from a busy day on the SEMA Show floor and network with friends and colleagues in the truck and off-road industry, connect through open conversation, and learn about TORA’s programs and resources. TORA Best Light Truck New Product and Best Off-Road New Product to be announced.

TORA Industry Reception: November 2, at 5:00 p.m., West Hall 3rd Floor Terrace

This event will bring together colleagues, leaders and enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for truck and off-road aftermarket. An awards ceremony will also take place to honor top individuals and companies. Pinewood Drag races will take place in partnership with SEMA Cares.

Wheel & Tire Council (WTC)

WTC Reception: November 1, at 5:00 p.m., Lower South Members Lounge, Driven by WTC, Booth #48179

This event will bring together colleagues, leaders and enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for the custom wheel and tire industry.

WTC Coffee & Conversation: November 2–3, at 8:00 a.m., Inside Lower South – Entrance to Global Tire Expo

Wheel and tire members and exhibitors are invited to stop by and network with one another and learn what is new and exciting this year with the industry and WTC.

WTC Happy Hour: November 2, at 5:00 p.m., Lower South Members Lounge, Driven by WTC, Booth #48179

Wind down from a busy day on the SEMA Show floor and network with other Wheel & Tire Council members, connect through open conversation, and learn about WTC’s programs and resources.

Don’t miss out on great networking—RSVP now for SEMA Show council and network events.

Ringbrothers to Unveil Four Custom Builds at 2022 SEMA Show

Ringbrothers is set to unveil four custom builds for the first time ever at the 2022 SEMA Show. Representing nearly 35,000 combined build hours, each vehicle has been extensively modified to showcase Ringbrothers’ full breadth of automotive design, production and craftsmanship:

• “BULLY” ’72 K5 Blazer: The 1,200hp, big-tired and purpose-built Blazer is meant to dominate on or off the road. BULLY is equipped with a supercharged Wegner Motorsports-built LS3, a triangulated four-link suspension with off-road racing coilovers and a fully custom bespoke interior. BULLY will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 1, at 10:00 a.m. at the HRIA booth #23295.
• “STRODE” ’69 Chevy Camaro: With a widened, fully carbon-clad body and extended wheelbase, the Camaro exemplifies stance and the remarkable work of digital design. Under the hood is a Wegner Motorsports-built LS3 topped with a 2.9L Whipple supercharger producing 1,000 hp, while the Ghost White paint pays homage to STRODE’s origins. STRODE will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 1, at 11:00 a.m. at the Keystone booth #21249.
• “PATRIARC” ’69 Ford Mustang: The high-revving Mustang is built to play in the wind, minimizing rear-end drag with groundbreaking aerodynamic innovation. Power from a Ford Performance Aluminator 5.2 XS engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission and a fully bespoke interior makes this one unique Pony. PATRIARC will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 1, at 11:30 a.m. at the Centerforce booth #23813.
• “ENYO” ’48 Chevrolet Pickup: With the original steel cab narrowed, lengthened, chopped and wedge cut, ENYO’s body was crafted with extensive use of carbon-fiber components, including a single-piece carbon-fiber belly pan. The design incorporates cantilevered independent suspension at all four corners and is powered by a 1,000hp big-block marine racing engine. It’s a ’40s work truck meets Formula 1 racer for Ringbrothers’ most extreme build yet. ENYO will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 1, at 2:00 p.m. at the Mothers booth #22357.

Street Muscle’s Project Max Street Is Going to the 2022 SEMA Show

Power Automedia has announced that Project Max Street, a ’66 Chevrolet Nova, will be featured at Race Winning Brands’ booth during the 2022 SEMA Show this November. Max Street is the company’s longest ongoing project, with its first article covering engine upgrades published back in 2010.

Project Max Street began its journey in need of restoration with a 350 small-block Chevy engine that had to be replaced. Through the years, Street Muscle Magazine has worked hard to turn this classic into a potent muscle car with an Edelbrock/Musi 555ci big-block Chevy engine, ProCharger F2 supercharger, TCI 6X transmission, Wilwood brakes, Moser rearend and more. Most recently, Max Street received a fresh coat of matte white paint from Axalta Coating, bringing this half-century-old build closer to being on display. Max Street will be showcased at the 2022 SEMA Show, November 1–4, at the Race Winning Brands booth #22943. For additional build details and updates, follow StreetMuscleMag.com.

Jessi Combs Foundation Announces Scholarships for WyoTech Students

The Jessi Combs Foundation (JCF) has awarded three students with scholarships to WyoTech—the automotive, diesel, and collision trade school headquartered in Laramie, Wyoming. The scholarship program is one of many ways JCF fulfills its mission to educate, inspire and empower the next generation of trailblazing and stereotype-breaking women. Maggie Daskam, Jade Bovee and Kaygen Bogle have each been recognized with a JCF Scholarship. The Jessi Combs Foundation was founded in 2019 in honor of the late Jessi Combs, a renowned race car driver, and WyoTech graduate. For more information, visit wyotech.edu and thejessicombsfoundation.com.

Magnuson’s Kim Pendergast Named to Forbes’ 50 Over 50

Magnuson Products Founder Kim Pendergast has been named to Forbes’ 50 Over 50 list, a designation that spotlights women who are “shattering age and gender norms across every sector of business, politics, the sciences and society.” Pendergast is the chair and CEO of Magnuson Products, the developer of superchargers for the automotive aftermarket based in Ventura, California. She also serves on the SEMA Board of Directors and as the SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC) chair.

In 2021, after examining alternative-energy strategies, Pendergast led Magnuson to produce a supercharger for a hydrogen-powered truck. She first entered the automotive aftermarket at age 52 by purchasing and running Martinsville, Virginia-based Arrington Manufacturing, a company that made engines for NASCAR. For more information, visit forbes.com/profile/kim-pendergast/.

NGK Spark Plugs Announces Kirt Denman as Director of Aftermarket

NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.), Inc.—the manufacturer of ignition parts and sensors based in Wixom, Michigan—has announced Kirt Denman has joined the company as the director of aftermarket. Denman has specialized in the automotive aftermarket and retail market for more than 35 years, the company says. NGK says Denman will serve as a leadership team member and be responsible for developing a strategy to drive the aftermarket forward and achieve established company goals. In addition, he will be responsible for the oversight and shared strategy of all sales and marketing programs, product launches and excess and obsolete inventory that provide growth and profitability.

VP Racing and Speed Society Hit the Street With New Streetwear Collaboration

VP Racing Fuels Inc., a global leader in performance fuels, lubricants and additives, has announced it has entered into a licensing agreement with Speed Society LLC, and has joined forces to launch their first line of The Racing Class streetwear. The initial two streetwear capsule collections, “Chasing Checkers” and “Pilot,” are being released exclusively on SpeedSociety.com this week.

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.

By Ashley Reyes

Showgoers walking from the West Hall to the Las Vegas Convention Center will be able to see a unique collection truck and off-road builds representing 10 diverse market segments. As part of the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle Trail, the vehicles are among the must-see attractions of the 2022 SEMA Show.

The 10 builds will be lined up along Las Vegas Convention Center Drive, adjacent to the West Hall, and highlight the diversity of the truck market. Showgoers are also invited to cast a vote for their favorite vehicle in the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award.

Vehicles on display will be:

Category: Overland
Baja Designs: ’14 Lexus GX 460

Category: Side-by-Side
Thumper Fab: ’22 Can-Am Defender

Category: CUV/Crossover
BERG Performance Inc.: ’08 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

 
Category: EV
Trulers: ’75 Volkswagen Sand Rail

Category: Off-Road
Proffitts: ’86 Toyota Land Cruiser  

 
Category: SUV
Quadratec: ’22 Jeep Wrangler

 
Category: Off-Road
Baja Designs: ’22 Jeep Wrangler

Category: Lifted Truck
CDT Automotive: ‘21 Ford F-450

Category: Off-Road
Westin Automotive: ’21 Jeep Wrangler JL

Category: Overland
Nisstec Lifts: ’22 Nissan Frontier

“TORA is committed to helping members and businesses identify hot trends and future opportunities,” said SEMA Council Director Denise Waddingham. “Seeing an array of vehicles from various segments will inspire and educate Showgoers to the unlimited possibilities.”

To vote in the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show vehicle, scan the QR code displayed next to the vehicle before Wednesday, November 2, at 3:00 p.m. The winner will be announced during the TORA Industry Reception, November 2, at 5:00 p.m. in the West Hall, 3rd Floor Terrace.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The 2022 mid-term election will be held on Tuesday, November 8, and it’s important to know which candidates support racing when going to the polls or voting early. With the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate up for grabs this fall, the racing community has a chance to shape the outcome of this election.

When casting your vote, it’s important that you consider which lawmakers have stood up for the interests of racers and motorsports-parts businesses by supporting the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act (RPM Act), H.R. 3281 and S. 2736, which guarantees the right to modify street cars, trucks and motorcycles into dedicated race vehicles and safeguards the industry’s right to offer parts that enable racers to compete.

Visit SEMA’s vote racing page for information on voting in the mid-term election, including absentee and early voting, and identifying your lawmakers and the candidates running in 2022. SEMA’s Vote Racing page also includes a list of the lawmakers who have publicly supported the RPM Act and are up for re-election this fall.

For more information, contact erics@sema.org.

By Della Domingo

With nearly 3,000 credentialed media at the SEMA Show, the annual trade event is ideal for exhibitors that are making newsworthy announcements. Following is the official SEMA Show press conference schedule. Media are encouraged to attend all press conferences. To apply for media credentials, visit www.semashow.com/register.

Exhibitors that have breaking news announcements that are of interest to a large number of media are utilizing press conferences during the 2022 SEMA Show.

Official 2022 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule

(As of October 20, 2022)

Monday, October 31

• 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. – SEMA: SEMA Vehicle Reveal featuring the SEMA Award Presentation (outside of the Grand Lobby entrance)

Tuesday, November 1

• 7:30 a.m.–8:50 a.m. – SEMA: Kick-Off Breakfast, featuring announcements of Best New Products (Paradise Event Center)
• 9:00 a.m. – Volkswagen Group of America Inc.: Vehicle Unveil (Booth #10509)
• 9:30 a.m. – Toyota Motor North America: Toyota Press Conference (Booth #22200)
• 10:00 a.m. – SEMA: Keynote Speaker – TBA (Westgate Paradise Event Center)
• 11:00 a.m. – Keystone Automotive Operations Inc.: Ringbrothers Vehicle Unveil (Booth #21249)
• 11:30 a.m. – Centerforce Clutches: Ringbrothers & Centerforce Debut ’69 Mach 1 Mustang (Booth #23813)
• 12:00 p.m. – Quadratec Inc.: Quadratec to Debut Hybrid Jeep for “50 for 50” (Booth #58085)
• 12:30 p.m. – SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN): SBN All-Female Build Reveal (Booth 57061)
• 1:00 p.m. – Scorpion EV: Power and Performance … Electrified (Booth #11268/SEMA Electrified Area)
• 1:30 p.m. – SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 40 Announcement (Booth #10139/SEMA Battle of the Builders Area)
• 2:00 p.m. – Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners: Ringbrothers Unveils the Super Truck (Booth #22357)
• 2:30 p.m. – Eaton: New Performance Products and Partnerships From Eaton (Booth #22743)
• 3:00 p.m. – KTL Restorations: KTL 2023 ECAT Cougar Powered by Electric GT (Booth #11268/SEMA Electrified Area)
• 3:30 p.m. – BluePrint Engines and Automotive Consulting Services: Strategic Alliance to Provide Powertrains for the Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act (Media Center)
• 4:00 p.m. – HEXIS: Who We Are (Media Center)

Wednesday, November 2

• 10:00 a.m. – Hellwig Products Co. Inc.: Hellwig Introduces New Silent Support System Line (Booth #57043)
• 10:30 a.m. – Radiant Ride: Radiant Ride Launches “Think Inside the Box” (Booth #12861)
• 11:00 a.m. – The 4 Less Corp.: AutoParts4Less.com Motorsports Sponsorship (Booth #11839)
• 11:30 a.m. – TORRIX: TORRIX – Altering Off-Road Possibilities (Booth #12439)
• 12:00 p.m. – SendCutSend.com: SendCutSend Launches On-Demand Manufacturing (Booth #24875)
• 12:30 p.m. – Redline Detection LLC: Redline Detection Global Brand Partnership (Media Center)
• 1:00 p.m. – EMPI Inc.: EMPI Dune Buggy Reveal and Poster Signing With Shannon Rae (Booth #23429)
• 1:30 p.m. – SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 12 Announcement (Booth #10139/SEMA Battle of the Builders Area)
• 2:00 p.m. – Formula DRIFT: Formula DRIFT: 20 Years (Media Center)
• 2:30 p.m. – Anyline Inc.:  Anyline Launches Smartphone Tread Depth Scanner (Media Center)
• 3:00 p.m. – Repairify: Repairify Institute Announcement (Booth #31201)
• 3:30 p.m. – Myers Tire Supply: Myers Tire Supply Launches Comprehensive MXP Brand (Booth #43095)
• 4:00 p.m. – ASA Automotive: ASA Automotive Introduces New DVI APP (Booth #43051)

By SEMA Editors

The 2022 SEMA Show is less than two weeks away. Here’s a rundown of key deadlines, including early-bird and advance rates available for several booth services, as well as checklists to keep you on track and on budget.

Complete Deadlines Checklist –

The deadlines checklist provides a breakdown of all of the deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and much more.

Budget Checklist – Double check your Show prep.

The budget checklist form allows you to keep track of all your costs and ensures that you are adequately prepared for your experience at the SEMA Show. 

Upcoming Exhibitor Deadlines – Take advantage of discounts by acting before the deadlines.

• October 21 – Vehicle Detailing (Advance Rate) – Professional Detailers
• October 27 – Freight – First Day Shipments accepted at LVCC
• October 28 – Photography Order—Expo Ease
• October 28 – Plant and Floral Order – Expo Ease
• November 3 – Last Day to Pick-up Banquet Tickets (12:00 p.m.)
• November 4 – Members Lounge Conference Room Reservation by 3:00 p.m.

Click here for a complete listing of 2022 SEMA Show deadlines.

More information on the 2022 SEMA Show is available at www.SEMAShow.com.

  SEMA Showgoers who want to stay close to monorail stations are encouraged to make their hotel reservations while rooms are still available.

With a quick look on the www.SEMAShow.com/travel homepage, Showgoers can see a list of hotels available along with the star rating, rate per night and distance from the Las Vegas Convention Center. Here are six hotels in the SEMA Show block with easy monorail access:

• SAHARA
• Westgate
• Harrah’s/LINQ
• Flamingo
• Bally’s
• MGM Grand

Showgoers booking through the SEMA Show housing partner receive guaranteed low rates on a wide range of hotel properties at locations on and off the Las Vegas Strip.

Discounted rates will be available for SEMA Showgoers.

When making your hotel reservations through the SEMA Show Travel & Lodging page, you are receiving the most affordable and convenient hotel options through the SEMA Show’s official hotel provider. All negotiated rates include resort fees and will allow you to change or cancel your reservation without any financial penalties.

More information about the SEMA Show, Tuesday–Friday, November 1–4, is available on www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Editors

Dates and locations have been scheduled for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, measuring sessions and activities.

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest jobs posted to the website.

Latest Jobs Added to SEMA Career Center

Regional Sales Manager
LIQUI MOLY USA

LIQUI MOLY USA currently seeks a candidate to fill an open position serving the sales needs in the Atlanta/Birmingham region. In this position, you will take an active part in the successful growth of the company. Throughout this region, you will be responsible for sales growth, marketing efforts and business expansion. With the opportunity to work independently, you are responsible for your own success. A minimum of five years’ experience in field sales management (preferably in lubricant products or automotive aftermarket) is required.

Customer Service Representative
Quadratec

Quadratec Inc. is hiring a customer service representative to manage a high volume of incoming calls, emails, and online chats from customers who are placing orders, inquiring about an order, requesting product information, and or general order assistance; answer automotive and technical questions regarding specific Jeep models and related products; and identify customer needs, clarify information, research every issue and provide solutions and/or alternatives.

Sales Manager
Wheel-1

Wheel-1 is hiring a sales manager to plan, organize, direct and manage all company sales channels to meet sales objectives; develop and manage network of independent sales representatives; manage and develop new customer account relationships; and track and record sales activity to ensure that company sales objectives are being achieved. Candidates must have a proven track record of sales success working in automotive parts industry and experience selling to retail wheel and tires stores.