By SEMA Editors

KYB Announces 2 Appointments to Customer Support Department

KYB Americas expanded its customer support department with the addition of Jim Thomas and Jessica Young.

KYB Americas announced that it has expanded its customer support department in Greenwood, Indiana, with the addition of Jim Thomas and Jessica Young. Thomas, who was promoted to customer support manager, was hired as a customer service representative in 2014, and quickly moved to customer support supervisor. He has more than 30 years of customer support experience, and is part of the KYB Community Service Team, where he dedicates time and organizes efforts to improve lives around him.

Jessica Young was recently named customer support representative. Young began at KYB as part of the packaging team and will now be reporting to Thomas in Customer Support. She is a recent graduate of Franklin College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in quantitative analysis with an economics specialization.

Ricky Best Named Western Regional Sales Representative for RideTech

Ricky Best

RideTech has named Ricky Best the company's western regional sales representative. Best will be responsible for assisting RideTech customers across the 12 western states and Western Canada.

Best brings more than 25 years of sales, support and motorsports experience to RideTech. His career includes key sales and marketing roles at Vortech Superchargers and ProMedia/NMCA as well as Holley Performance Products’ group of brands. 

VP Racing Fuels Acquires Tennessee Location

VP Racing Fuels Inc. has acquired a new property and facility in Huntingdon, Tennessee, citing a favorable atmosphere for business growth and development. The local, state and economic development agencies in Tennessee were eager to help VP acquire this property and obtain all necessary permits and approvals to ensure full use of the facility. VP had acquired two additional properties in Bexar County in past years, but as of today, the company has not been able to fully use them for needed expansion. As a result, one of the properties is under contract for sale.

The new Tennessee facility includes nearly 160,000 square feet on 57 acres and will also be used for manufacturing, packaging, warehousing and distribution, expanding as the company grows.

Maxxsonics Honors Ted Henricks

Ted Hendricks

Maxxsonics  recently created a picture gallery in memory of its vice president Ted Henricks, who passed away suddenly on January 23, at his home in McHenry, Illinois.

Henricks was one of the founding members of Maxxsonics in 2001. While Ted held several positions throughout the organization, he never drifted far from his passion of sales and marketing, where he served as the company’s vice president and tremendous comic.

XForce Signs With R&R Marketing Consultants for North America Promotions

XForce Performance Exhaust has engaged R&R Marketing Consultants Inc. to provide sales and marketing representation in the United States and Western Canada.

XForce has quickly become one of Australia’s most recognizable automotive aftermarket brands. The company’s products, researched and custom-developed in Australia and the United States, include performance mufflers, exhausts systems and accessories for domestic and import vehicles. R&R Marketing Consultants Inc. will provide business services that include prospecting, market strategy and planning, sales calls and pipeline inventory management.

Sergio Fierro Joins the IMS Museum Preservation Team

Sergio Fierro, the owner and founder of auto detailing company Advance Detailing Experts, has been invited to become part of the detailing team responsible for caring for vehicles at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) Museum, from February 21–23.

As part of this position, Fierro will be working alongside other certified master auto detailers and techs to work on, preserve and restore some of the most important cars to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Fierro has more than 15 years of automotive detailing experience, and has undergone multiple job trainings and certifications in his field. As a Skills Validated (SV) and Certified (CD) member of the International Detailing Association (IDA), Fierro has already proven his ability to detail at the highest level in several past projects.

As part of this special SONAX Detailing Team, Fierro hopes to live up to expectations. “It really is such an honor to represent a worldwide premium car care brand,” said Fierro. “And the rest of the guys and I can’t wait to get to work, I’m sure.”

AutoMeter Awarded IATF 16949:2016 Certification

AutoMeter Products Inc. announced that it has successfully completed IATF 16949:2016 Certification, the new automotive quality management standard which supersedes ISO/TS16949. The stringent and prestigious IATF 16949:2016 standard represents the latest initiatives by the International Automotive Task Force (IATF) to achieve harmonized assessment and certification in the global automotive supply chain.

AutoMeter Products Inc. has utilized TÜV SÜD Management Service GmbH since 2005 as its registrar for TS/IATF certification audits.

Icahn Automotive Announces Program to Address Service Technician Shortage

Icahn Automotive Group LLC, an Icahn Enterprises L.P. company, which owns and operates Pep Boys, AAMCO and Precision Tune Auto Care, announced a new program designed to support promising future automotive technicians. Through the new program, “Race to 2026,” Icahn Automotive is encouraging more men and women to pursue viable careers in the skilled trades by rolling out partnerships with technical training schools; offering scholarships, tuition reimbursement and apprentice programs; and creating internship programs, job placement and continuing education opportunities.

The program launch and classroom unveiling attracted industry and government leaders, including Pep Boys, AAMCO, Precision Tune and UTI representatives; Pep Boys “Technician of the Year” winners; Garage Gurus; elected officials and Auto Care Association leadership. The event provided a platform to discuss the importance of preparing youth for promising careers in the automotive trade. Icahn Automotive celebrated by awarding a $2,500 scholarship to Jonathan Fanstill, a student enrolled at UTI. The scholarship is the first in a new program that will award $30,000 to 12 students annually and the company also plans to also accept students into an internship program later in the year.

5 Weeks Left Until 2019 SEMA Show Booth Space Application Deadline

Companies that would like to participate in the 2019 SEMA Show's Priority Space Selection Process need to submit applications by March 29.

2019 SEMA Show Booth Space Available Here

The 2019 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas.

https://www.semashow.com/buyabooth

5 Weeks Left Until 2019 SEMA Show Booth Space Application Deadline

Companies that would like to participate in the 2019 SEMA Show's Priority Space Selection Process need to submit applications by March 29.

2019 SEMA Show Booth Space Available Here

The 2019 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas.

https://www.semashow.com/buyabooth

Newly Created Programs Directed at Engaging Youth

The ability to capture the youth market is a focus for many industries simply because future success often depends on it.

https://www.sema.org/sema-news/2019/03/a-strategic-investment-in-youth

By Della Domingo

The vision of Builder Kyle Kuhnhausen, who was part of the Young Guns in 2018, was to create a machine that could drive to the track, compete, and drive home.

The nationwide search for aspiring, up-and-coming young vehicle builders kicks off March 16, as the SEMA Youngs Guns Regional Program takes place at TX2K19 at Houston Raceway Park, just outside of Houston, Texas. 

As the first event in the 2019 SEMA Young Guns Regional Program, TX2K19 will feature 10 builders age 27 or younger vying for a chance to participate in the 2019 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition and showcase their vehicle at the world-renowned SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Since 2014, the SEMA Battle of the Builders has served as the automotive industry’s premier vehicle competition. Open exclusively to builders with vehicles on display at the SEMA Show, the competition expanded in 2017 to provide exposure for a limited number of rising young builders. This year’s program includes partnerships with nine venues, with one winner from each venue awarded an all-expenses paid trip for two to the 2019 SEMA Show, transportation of the winner’s vehicle, a designated feature spot at the Show and entry into the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition.

“We’re excited to kick off the SEMA Young Guns Program at TX2K19,” said SEMA vice president of Marketing Ira Gabriel. “TX2K19 represents a new partnership for the Young Guns Program, and will allow us to reach a new group of young builders. Our goals are to discover new talent, promote vehicle customization to the younger generation and make the hobby accessible to more people. We’re confident that TX2K19 will aid us in reaching our goals.”

Vehicle builders age 27 and younger are invited to enter the Young Guns Regional Competition at www.semayoungguns.com, where they will be able to select from nine venues. The deadline for the TX2K19 event is March 8, after which time 10 applicants will be selected to compete in Houston, for a chance to advance on to the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition in Las Vegas.

For additional details, visit www.semayoungguns.com or contact marketing@semaignited.com.

By Della Domingo

The vision of Builder Kyle Kuhnhausen, who was part of the Young Guns in 2018, was to create a machine that could drive to the track, compete, and drive home.

The nationwide search for aspiring, up-and-coming young vehicle builders kicks off March 16, as the SEMA Youngs Guns Regional Program takes place at TX2K19 at Houston Raceway Park, just outside of Houston, Texas. 

As the first event in the 2019 SEMA Young Guns Regional Program, TX2K19 will feature 10 builders age 27 or younger vying for a chance to participate in the 2019 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition and showcase their vehicle at the world-renowned SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Since 2014, the SEMA Battle of the Builders has served as the automotive industry’s premier vehicle competition. Open exclusively to builders with vehicles on display at the SEMA Show, the competition expanded in 2017 to provide exposure for a limited number of rising young builders. This year’s program includes partnerships with nine venues, with one winner from each venue awarded an all-expenses paid trip for two to the 2019 SEMA Show, transportation of the winner’s vehicle, a designated feature spot at the Show and entry into the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition.

“We’re excited to kick off the SEMA Young Guns Program at TX2K19,” said SEMA vice president of Marketing Ira Gabriel. “TX2K19 represents a new partnership for the Young Guns Program, and will allow us to reach a new group of young builders. Our goals are to discover new talent, promote vehicle customization to the younger generation and make the hobby accessible to more people. We’re confident that TX2K19 will aid us in reaching our goals.”

Vehicle builders age 27 and younger are invited to enter the Young Guns Regional Competition at www.semayoungguns.com, where they will be able to select from nine venues. The deadline for the TX2K19 event is March 8, after which time 10 applicants will be selected to compete in Houston, for a chance to advance on to the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition in Las Vegas.

For additional details, visit www.semayoungguns.com or contact marketing@semaignited.com.

By Della Domingo

The vision of Builder Kyle Kuhnhausen, who was part of the Young Guns in 2018, was to create a machine that could drive to the track, compete, and drive home.

The nationwide search for aspiring, up-and-coming young vehicle builders kicks off March 16, as the SEMA Youngs Guns Regional Program takes place at TX2K19 at Houston Raceway Park, just outside of Houston, Texas. 

As the first event in the 2019 SEMA Young Guns Regional Program, TX2K19 will feature 10 builders age 27 or younger vying for a chance to participate in the 2019 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition and showcase their vehicle at the world-renowned SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Since 2014, the SEMA Battle of the Builders has served as the automotive industry’s premier vehicle competition. Open exclusively to builders with vehicles on display at the SEMA Show, the competition expanded in 2017 to provide exposure for a limited number of rising young builders. This year’s program includes partnerships with nine venues, with one winner from each venue awarded an all-expenses paid trip for two to the 2019 SEMA Show, transportation of the winner’s vehicle, a designated feature spot at the Show and entry into the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition.

“We’re excited to kick off the SEMA Young Guns Program at TX2K19,” said SEMA vice president of Marketing Ira Gabriel. “TX2K19 represents a new partnership for the Young Guns Program, and will allow us to reach a new group of young builders. Our goals are to discover new talent, promote vehicle customization to the younger generation and make the hobby accessible to more people. We’re confident that TX2K19 will aid us in reaching our goals.”

Vehicle builders age 27 and younger are invited to enter the Young Guns Regional Competition at www.semayoungguns.com, where they will be able to select from nine venues. The deadline for the TX2K19 event is March 8, after which time 10 applicants will be selected to compete in Houston, for a chance to advance on to the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition in Las Vegas.

For additional details, visit www.semayoungguns.com or contact marketing@semaignited.com.

By: Kristopher Porter

Matt Beenen of Builtright Industries (with check) was named the winner of the 2018 SEMA Launch Pad, presented by the Young Executives Network.

The seventh annual SEMA Launch Pad presented by YEN is accepting applications for new, innovative automotive products/services from business entrepreneurs under age 40. As a reminder, you do not need to be a SEMA member to apply to compete, and if chosen as one of the 15 semi-finalists, your company receives a complimentary membership to SEMA (up to a $1,000 value). 

The SEMA Launch Pad is the premier automotive business competition offering young innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs a platform at the largest automotive aftermarket B2B gathering—the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Through this competition, applicants will be narrowed down to 15 semi-finalists who will be further narrowed down to five finalists via a social media voting campaign. The five finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their product to a panel of industry judges in front of a live audience to win the grand prize designed to advance their business.

Ready to learn more and apply? Click here.

2019 Prize Packages

GRAND PRIZE: One Winner

• The finalist, top 10 and semi-finalist prizes plus:
• $10,000 to be used for the benefit of your business
• Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2019 SEMA Show*
• One full-page, four-color advertisement in SEMA News magazine
• Up to three hours of free custom scanning services at the SEMA Garage
• SEMA Manufacturers' Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting

FINALISTS PRIZE: Five Competitors

The top 10 and semi-finalist prizes plus:

• Invitation to pitch at the live event for the grand prize held on November 4.

TOP TEN: 10 participants

• The semi-finalist prizes plus:
• Complimentary 2019 SEMA Show "Kiosk" Booth*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet
• One-hour mentoring session with an industry leader
• Widespread awareness of your brand and business

SEMI-FINALISTS PRIZE: 15 participants

• One-year SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2019 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 18–19)
• $500 award to be used toward flight cost to the 2019 Exhibitor Summit.
• License to use the SEMA-filmed pitch video on company marketing deliverables.
• Widespread awareness of your business through SEMA communication channels

*All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize-winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes. All prize winners must complete a W-9 in order to receive a prize.

**No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2019 SEMA Show “Kiosk” Booth in New Products Showcase Area or the “Turn-key” Exhibit Space with Premium Placement in the 2020 SEMA Show.

Learn more: Terms & Conditions.

By: Kristopher Porter

Matt Beenen of Builtright Industries (with check) was named the winner of the 2018 SEMA Launch Pad, presented by the Young Executives Network.

The seventh annual SEMA Launch Pad presented by YEN is accepting applications for new, innovative automotive products/services from business entrepreneurs under age 40. As a reminder, you do not need to be a SEMA member to apply to compete, and if chosen as one of the 15 semi-finalists, your company receives a complimentary membership to SEMA (up to a $1,000 value). 

The SEMA Launch Pad is the premier automotive business competition offering young innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs a platform at the largest automotive aftermarket B2B gathering—the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Through this competition, applicants will be narrowed down to 15 semi-finalists who will be further narrowed down to five finalists via a social media voting campaign. The five finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their product to a panel of industry judges in front of a live audience to win the grand prize designed to advance their business.

Ready to learn more and apply? Click here.

2019 Prize Packages

GRAND PRIZE: One Winner

• The finalist, top 10 and semi-finalist prizes plus:
• $10,000 to be used for the benefit of your business
• Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2019 SEMA Show*
• One full-page, four-color advertisement in SEMA News magazine
• Up to three hours of free custom scanning services at the SEMA Garage
• SEMA Manufacturers' Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting

FINALISTS PRIZE: Five Competitors

The top 10 and semi-finalist prizes plus:

• Invitation to pitch at the live event for the grand prize held on November 4.

TOP TEN: 10 participants

• The semi-finalist prizes plus:
• Complimentary 2019 SEMA Show "Kiosk" Booth*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet
• One-hour mentoring session with an industry leader
• Widespread awareness of your brand and business

SEMI-FINALISTS PRIZE: 15 participants

• One-year SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2019 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 18–19)
• $500 award to be used toward flight cost to the 2019 Exhibitor Summit.
• License to use the SEMA-filmed pitch video on company marketing deliverables.
• Widespread awareness of your business through SEMA communication channels

*All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize-winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes. All prize winners must complete a W-9 in order to receive a prize.

**No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2019 SEMA Show “Kiosk” Booth in New Products Showcase Area or the “Turn-key” Exhibit Space with Premium Placement in the 2020 SEMA Show.

Learn more: Terms & Conditions.

By Washington, D.C., Staff

Legislation (S.F. 193) has been introduced in the Iowa Senate to require the issuance of only a single, rear-mounted license plate for all motor vehicles.

Current law allows single license plates on only model year 1948 or older vehicles. The bill is currently awaiting consideration by the Senate Transportation Committee.

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network website.

For details, contact Christian Robinson at stateleg@sema.org.