By SEMA News Editors

Off-Road Industry Mourns Loss of ORMHoF Inductees Malcolm Smith and Mary McGee

The Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame has announced the passing of inductees Malcolm Smith and Mary McGee.

Smith was a member of the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame inaugural Class of 1978, and McGee was enshrined in 2023. Both competed in four-wheel classes but made their respective marks of the off-road racing history books on two-wheels, the Hall of Fame said in a statement celebrating the lives of the inductees.

Click here to read the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame's tribute to both Smith and McGee.
 

Stratasys Becomes Official 3D Printing Partner of NASCAR

NASCAR has announced an expanded long-term technical partnership with Stratasys, making the company the official 3D printing partner of NASCAR. NASCAR will now exclusively use Stratasys 3D printing technology for the design and production of parts and tools across NASCAR, replacing previous technologies used alongside Stratasys solutions.

A new state-of-the-art 3D printing lab is also set to open at the NASCAR Research & Development Center in Concord, North Carolina. The facility features multiple Stratasys technologies, including F370, 450mc, F900 (FDM printers) and a NEO800 (SL printer) to support research and development, parts production and tooling for NASCAR's three national series.

As part of the expanded partnership, Stratasys will also increase the existing FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) capabilities within the NASCAR R&D center, allowing for larger-scale part production. In addition to FDM technology, NASCAR will now integrate Stratasys NEO stereolithography (SL). These technologies will support a variety of applications, from aerodynamic testing to prototyping and production of parts with high-precision tooling, further enhancing the design and manufacturing flexibility that 3D printing brings to the sport.

For more information, visit nascar.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com. Read more racing industry news on performanceracing.com/industry-news.

The following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

The following seats are open for this year's election:

• Chair-elect (one open seat)
• Manufacturer (three open seats)
• Manufacturers' Rep (one open seat)

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a Board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, include brief information about the nominee's qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Submit a nomination HERE.

We urge you to take part in the nominations process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Most small businesses have until December 31, 2024, to file a new, required report with the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on their organization's beneficial owners. Beneficial ownership information (BOI) reports are a requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a 2021 federal law to enhance transparency in entity structures and ownership to combat money laundering, tax fraud, and other illicit activities. The CTA imposes reporting obligations on all business entities within the scope of the "reporting company" definition under the statute.  

However, small businesses can be exempted from filing a report with FinCEN if they meet the following three criteria: 

• Employ more than 20 employees; 
• Operate a physical office in the U.S.; and 
• Filed federal tax returns demonstrating more than $5 million in gross receipts or sales. 

The CTA defines a "beneficial owner" as an individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company. An individual exercises "substantial control" over an entity if the individual: 

• Serves as a senior officer. 
• Has authority over the appointment or removal of a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors. 
• Directs, determines or has substantial influence over important business decisions. 

Beneficial ownership information reporting is not an annual requirement. Businesses only must file a report with FINCEN once unless the filer needs to update or correct information about their company's beneficial ownership. Generally, reporting companies must provide four pieces of information about each beneficial owner: 

• Name.
• Date of birth. 
• Address. 
• The identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired U.S. driver's license, a non-expired U.S. passport or a non-expired identification document issued by a State (including a U.S. territory or possession), local government, or Indian tribe. If none of those documents exist, a non-expired foreign passport can be used. An image of the document must also be submitted. 

Companies must also submit certain information about themselves, such as their name(s) and address. In addition, reporting companies created on or after January 1, 2024, must submit information about the individuals who formed the company ("company applicants"). 

Filers can also view informational videos and webinars, find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to the contact center and learn more about how to report at fincen.gov/boi. Also, SEMA member companies can listen to a webinar on the BOI reporting requirements here. There is no charge for SEMA members, as the association is a member of the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), which hosted the webinar. Click here to register for the webinar replay.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Most small businesses have until December 31, 2024, to file a new, required report with the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on their organization's beneficial owners. Beneficial ownership information (BOI) reports are a requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a 2021 federal law to enhance transparency in entity structures and ownership to combat money laundering, tax fraud, and other illicit activities. The CTA imposes reporting obligations on all business entities within the scope of the "reporting company" definition under the statute.  

However, small businesses can be exempted from filing a report with FinCEN if they meet the following three criteria: 

• Employ more than 20 employees; 
• Operate a physical office in the U.S.; and 
• Filed federal tax returns demonstrating more than $5 million in gross receipts or sales. 

The CTA defines a "beneficial owner" as an individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company. An individual exercises "substantial control" over an entity if the individual: 

• Serves as a senior officer. 
• Has authority over the appointment or removal of a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors. 
• Directs, determines or has substantial influence over important business decisions. 

Beneficial ownership information reporting is not an annual requirement. Businesses only must file a report with FINCEN once unless the filer needs to update or correct information about their company's beneficial ownership. Generally, reporting companies must provide four pieces of information about each beneficial owner: 

• Name.
• Date of birth. 
• Address. 
• The identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired U.S. driver's license, a non-expired U.S. passport or a non-expired identification document issued by a State (including a U.S. territory or possession), local government, or Indian tribe. If none of those documents exist, a non-expired foreign passport can be used. An image of the document must also be submitted. 

Companies must also submit certain information about themselves, such as their name(s) and address. In addition, reporting companies created on or after January 1, 2024, must submit information about the individuals who formed the company ("company applicants"). 

Filers can also view informational videos and webinars, find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to the contact center and learn more about how to report at fincen.gov/boi. Also, SEMA member companies can listen to a webinar on the BOI reporting requirements here. There is no charge for SEMA members, as the association is a member of the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), which hosted the webinar. Click here to register for the webinar replay.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

The Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, taking place January 21-23, 2025, is now accepting applications for media outlets, individuals and content creators. The conference is premiering in Orlando, Florida, for the first time and promises to deliver exceptional opportunities to connect media and manufacturers in one-on-one editorial meetings. 

MPMC waives the conference fee for media attendees, so register today! Fill out the application at this link.

Want to learn more? Check out the Media Trade Conference website.  

Limited spaces are still available for motorsports parts manufacturers to exhibit. Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

Audi's current Q7, first introduced in 2015 and refreshed in 2019 and 2024, is now the brand's oldest model still in production. According to new images captured by SEMA News sources, the upcoming next-generation Q7 is expected to undergo significant design changes.

Though still hidden under camouflage, the new images reveal some key design updates, including new split headlights--a feature that will appear on several upcoming Audi models--and L-shaped taillights, seen for the first time in what looks like their final production form. The new Q7 will also showcase the latest iteration of Audi's Singleframe grille, which takes on a more rounded appearance compared to the boxier designs on current models. According to the SEMA News sources, the Q7 seems to retain dimensions similar to the current version, which remains Audi's largest SUV. However, there are rumors of an even bigger Audi Q9 in development.

The third-generation Q7 is shaping up to be one of Audi's final models featuring internal-combustion engines. Audi has announced that all new models launched after 2026 will be fully electric, and with the Q7 expected to debut in early 2026 after a 2025 unveiling, it might mark the end of the line for gas-powered Audis. Audi plans to phase out combustion engines entirely by 2033.

The new Q7 is anticipated to offer a range of mild-hybrid gas and diesel options, along with significantly improved plug-in hybrids that deliver a longer electric range, insiders said. A sporty SQ7 variant featuring a performance-focused hybrid powertrain is also likely to return.

By SEMA News Editors

Officials from PASMAG's Tuner Battlegrounds presented by LIQUI MOLY honored its "Season 11" champion, John Proulx, at the 2024 SEMA Show last month in Las Vegas. Proulx's '09 Subaru WRX STI was on display in the PAGMAG booth on the SEMA Show floor, and Proulx was also honored during a special award presentation led by Tuner Battlegrounds host and "Season 9" champion Luke Skalisius. 

PASMAG's Tuner Battlegrounds is an online bracket-style tournament competition where automotive enthusiasts can compete with their modified vehicles and vote for their favorite vehicles or automotive builders on tunerbattlegrounds.com. Participating automotive enthusiasts have the opportunity to compete for exclusive print features in PASMAG, giveaways from sponsors and awards at participating events and in the annual championship playoffs.

"Season 11" of PASMAG's Tuner Battlegrounds presented by LIQUI MOLY attracted top enthusiasts from across North America, but Proulx emerged victorious with his Toyota V12-powered Subaru STI, which was a crowd favorite for its meticulous craftsmanship and custom modifications. It is powered by a Toyota V12 engine with dual G30-770 turbos, 44mm external wastegates, and a custom 3-in. exhaust system. The custom build, highlighted by Bentley Eclipse Grey Metallic paint and Weld Racing forged S71 wheels, is also enhanced with an Android head unit and custom interior wiring managed by a Maxxecu Pro ECU.

"Seeing my car on the cover of PASMAG and in the booth at SEMA is a surreal moment," said Proulx. "This journey was fueled by countless hours, late nights and a profound passion. I'm grateful to the Tuner Battlegrounds team, LIQUI MOLY and the community that supported me." 

"John's build represents the essence of Tuner Battlegrounds--a mix of technical skill, creativity and commitment to the culture that defines us. Featuring his car on our cover and in the PASMAG booth completes this achievement. We're honored to celebrate this moment with him at SEMA and grateful to LIQUI MOLY for their continued support, which allows us to produce Tuner Battlegrounds each year," said Tim Rutledge, executive producer of Tuner Battlegrounds.

For more information, visit tunerbattlegrounds.com or semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Advanced Clutch Technology

225mm Mod-Twin Pull-Type Clutch Kit for '93-'95 Mazda RX-7 (FD)

These 225mm Mod-Twin kits provide improved feel, drivability, performance and durability, the manufacturer says, accommodating torque levels as high as 1,120 lb.-ft. for racing applications. Optional components can be combined in any one of 10 configurations. The kit has three different clamp loads available, alternate friction plates and a choice of sprung or solid Mono-Drive hub.

Clutch Kits for Acura TL Type S and Honda Accord J35

Advanced Clutch Technology has designed its latest street performance and race clutch kits for the Acura TL Type S and Honda Accord J35 applications. SFI-certified for racing, the kits are rated to handle up to 587 lb.-ft. of torque and include the Chromoly XACT Streetlite flywheel, clutch hardware, release bearing, pilot bearing and alignment tool.

advancedclutch.com

BMR Suspension

Non-Adjustable Upper Control Arms for '21-'24 Ford Bronco

Designed from 1.625-in. DOM steel tubing, BMR's Non-Adjustable Upper Control Arms aim to reduce upper-control-arm flex and improve traction on the street and off-road, and are available in red or black hammertone powder coat.

Delrin Transmission/Differential Mount Kit for C6 Corvette

BMR Suspension has released a new transmission/differential mount kit for '05-'13 Chevrolet Corvette applications to reduce transmission movement and improve throttle response. Formed from a laser-cut steel plate and Delrin bushings, the kit is designed to eliminate transmission movement by replacing the soft rubber bushings that contribute to deflection.

bmrsuspension.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

NASCAR Names Craig Stimmel as Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer

NASCAR has hired Craig Stimmel to lead all sales efforts for the sanctioning body as senior vice president and chief commercial officer.

In this role, Stimmel will oversee all sales aspects for NASCAR, including premier partner and official partner categories, race entitlements, track partnerships and media sales across owned channels such as Motor Racing Network (MRN) and NASCAR Digital Media. He will also work closely with NASCAR's media partners, teams and non-NASCAR tracks to cultivate commercial opportunities across the entire NASCAR ecosystem.

Stimmel previously led global sales and partnerships for the WWE, and held a similar role at Snapchat. Most recently, Stimmel was senior vice president of commercial for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Stimmel will be based in NASCAR's New York office and will manage employees across more than 20 office and race track locations. He will report to EVP, Chief Media and Revenue Officer Brian Herbst.

For more information, visit nascar.com.
 

TAG Heuer Extends Partnership With INDYCAR, IMS

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment: Chris Owens.
 

Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer has renewed its longstanding, multiyear partnership with INDYCAR and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS).

Continuing as the official watch and timekeeper of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the Indianapolis 500, TAG Heuer will remain a presenting sponsor of the Hulman Terrace Club hospitality suites at IMS.

TAG Heuer started its partnership with INDYCAR in 2014 and with the Indianapolis 500 and IMS in 2004.

TAG Heuer branding also will continue to have a strong presence at IMS, including on the IMS Pagoda and on the retaining wall near the Yard of Bricks start-finish line during the "Month of May."

For more information, visit indycar.com.

Drag Illustrated Winter Series Introduces Points Championship for Pro Mod

The 2024-25 Drag Illustrated Winter Series, a three-race championship contested at Bradenton Motorsports Park, will see drivers battling for the first-ever Drag Illustrated Winter Series Points Championship.

Drivers will accrue points for qualifying, elimination round victories and participation, ensuring that consistency and performance across all three events are rewarded. The World Series of Pro Mod will award points-and-a-half during eliminations.

For more information, visit thewinterseries.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com. 

By SEMA News Editors

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares Resigns

Stellantis, the multinational automaker that includes the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and other brands, has accepted the resignation of CEO Carlos Tavares with immediate effect.

The process to appoint the new permanent CEO is under way, managed by a special committee of the board, and will be concluded within the first half of 2025. Until then, a new interim executive committee, chaired by John Elkann, will be established.

"Our thanks go to Carlos for his years of dedicated service and the role he has played in the creation of Stellantis, in addition to the previous turnarounds of PSA and Opel, setting us on the path to becoming a global leader in our industry," said Elkann. "I look forward to working with our new Interim Executive Committee, supported by all our Stellantis colleagues, as we complete the process of appointing our new CEO. Together we will ensure the continued deployment of the Company’s strategy in the long-term interests of Stellantis and all of its stakeholders.”

For more information, visit stellantis.com.

Image courtesy of Stellantis.

Aptera to Showcase Solar Electric Vehicle at CES 2025

Aptera Motors will showcase its solar electric vehicle that requires no charging for most daily use at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025.

Aptera’s flagship vehicle, also called Aptera, offers up to 40 miles of solar-powered driving per day, an ultra-aerodynamic design, unparalleled energy efficiency and the option to plug in to charge for 400 miles on single charge in under an hour, the company said.

Currently, Aptera is in its final developmental stage before it kicks off series production and is building a series of production-intent vehicles.

At CES 2025, Aptera plans to showcase its production-intent vehicle to the public for the first time. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience firsthand how Aptera's solar-powered design redefines mobility. In addition to unveiling its vehicle, Aptera will be offering exclusive driving demos to select media personnel

For more information, visit aptera.us.

Image courtesy of Aptera.

Maaco Appoints Frank Petrane as President

Maaco has appointed Frank Petrane to serve as its brand president.

Prior to his appointment, Petrane served as senior vice president of fleet programs at Driven Brands. Petrane has spent more than 18 years in roles of increasing responsibility at Driven Brands, after starting with Maaco as a national account manager in 2006.

For more information, visit maaco.com.