By Ashley Reyes

Attendees of the 2025 Grand National Roadster Show at the Pomona Fairplex (Pomona, California) will have an exciting opportunity to connect with a panel of hot rod industry experts as they discuss the evolution of automotive design during a panel discussion on Friday, January 31, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. PST in Building 9. 

Hosted by the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance, the discussion will be moderated by award-winning automotive fabricator, entrepreneur, and TV host Brad Fanshaw. He will be joined by an incredible group of panelists, including:  

• Eric Brockmeyer: Renowned automotive designer and award-winning car builder. 
• Larry Erickson: Magna Exteriors' global director of exteriors with 25 years of experience in production car design. 
• Dave Marek: Executive creative director for Acura, where he is responsible for designs of the Acura brand. 
• Sean Smith: Founder of Sean Smith Designs, a creative studio specializing in the bespoke automotive industry.

Attendees will hear from the panelists as they give a behind-the-scenes look into the world of automotive design and insights into their expertise in the hot rod world. Registration is not required.

By SEMA News

eBay Enters Agreement to Acquire Caramel Online Vehicle Transaction Platform

eBay, the online commerce platform, has agreed to acquire Caramel, an online automotive transaction solution provider.

The Caramel platform provides a secure and seamless digital transaction experience that handles all of the complexities of a vehicle sale, eBay said in a statement announcing the acquisition, including paperwork, ownership transfer, financing, transportation and more.

"eBay's acquisition of Caramel is about creating trust for vehicle buyers. Buying a car is a big moment. Caramel's platform brings it all into one simple, seamless process: title and identity verification, insurance, financing--even shipping the car to the buyer after purchase," said Chris Prill, general manager, eBay Motors. "With Caramel and eBay combining forces, both buyers and sellers will be able to complete vehicle transactions on eBay with greater peace-of-mind, and Caramel can further establish itself across a myriad of platforms."

Caramel was founded in 2021 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Closing of the transaction is expected in the first quarter of 2025.

For more information, visit ebayinc.com.

Kahn Media's Dan Kahn Launches New Book on Marketing

Dan Kahn, the CEO and founder of Kahn Media, has launched his first book, "The New Rules to the Road: How to Navigate the Rapidly Changing Marketing Landscape."

Now available on Amazon, the book is designed to help marketing professionals navigate the ever-changing landscape of modern public relations and brand marketing, Kahn said. Drawing from his 20-plus years of experience, the guide offers case studies, historical context and strategies to deliver a tool kit for professionals looking to elevate their marketing and communication skills.

For more information, visit dankahn.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN), SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC) are hosting a networking mixer at King of the Hammers in Johnson Valley, California, on Thursday, February 6, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. PST inside the VIP tent. 

Open to all King of the Hammers attendees and SEMA council and network members, the mixer is a great opportunity to grow one's professional network and discover key resources designed to help automotive aftermarket businesses succeed in the industry. Council and network select committee leaders will be on-site to share volunteer and education opportunities, targeted professional development programs and information on upcoming in-person and virtual events for members.  

Complimentary appetizers, water and soda will be provided. Registration, although not required, is encouraged so that event planners can plan the event accordingly. Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA is now accepting nominations for induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame, the association's highest honor, at sema.org/hof. The SEMA Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding persons in the automotive aftermarket who have enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to, the industry and/or association's growth.

"SEMA's Hall of Fame is a tribute to the leaders and changemakers who have propelled the industry forward in extraordinary ways," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "Each year, we seek to identify new individuals whose vision and accomplishments disrupted the status quo, set new benchmarks for excellence, and left an undeniable mark on the industry's success."

Established in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame is one of the association's longest-standing programs. To date, 180 individuals have been inducted, each exemplifying innovation, leadership and positive change within the industry. These trailblazers have played a pivotal role in advancing the aftermarket industry through their dedication and passion.

Nominee qualifications include:

• The candidate must have made contributions that extended beyond the local level and reached throughout the national and/or international level.
• The candidate is and/or has been involved in the automotive specialty industry and/or SEMA for a minimum of 10 years, although 15 years is preferred.
• The candidate must have made outstanding contributions toward enhancing technology, professionalism, dignity and/or general stature and growth of the automotive specialty industry.
• The candidate must have conducted himself/herself with a high degree of integrity both within and outside of the automotive specialty industry.
• The candidate must be at least 50 years of age prior to the SEMA Show during the year of induction or they may be at any age if deceased as long as the nomination is presented at least one year posthumous.

SEMA is also accepting nominees that have been employed by the association or have served as a contractor and/or vendor of SEMA. In addition to meeting the above qualifications, the nominee must have no less than one year of total separation from SEMA in any and all capacities, arrangements or relationships. 

The 2025 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will be announced in May and honored during the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala in July.   

Nominations are due by Friday, March 14, at sema.org/hof. Questions can be directed to Escobar at josee@sema.org. To view a list of SEMA Hall of Fame Inductees, visit this link.

By SEMA News Editors

Winners of the 2025 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards Unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show

The North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) revealed its 2025 award winners at the Detroit Auto Show:

• Car of the Year: Honda Civic Hybrid
• Truck of the Year: Ford Ranger
• Utility Vehicle of the Year: Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Founded in 1994, the NACTOY awards are not associated with a single publication. Vehicles are judged by 50 professional automotive journalists from a wide variety of print, online, radio and television media outlets in the United States and Canada.

For more information on each winner, visit northamericancaroftheyear.org.

Hankook Completes Acquisition of Hanon Systems

Hankook and Company Group has completed its acquisition of Hanon Systems, the world's second-largest automotive thermal management solutions provider.

Hankook and Company Group first acquired a minority stake in the company in 2014, before acquiring a 54% ownership stake after two recent purchases of shares.

With the acquisition, Hankook & Company Group has strengthened its position as a comprehensive automotive parts company with core portfolios of tires, batteries and thermal management, Hankook representatives said. Hanon Systems is recognized for its technology in thermal energy management systems, essential for electric vehicle (EV) battery performance.

For more information, visit hankookandcompany.com.

Nexen Tire Partners with Sydney FC to Expand Global Marketing Efforts

Tire manufacturer Nexen Tire has announced a strategic global marketing partnership with Australian soccer team Sydney FC in an effort to expand its marketing reach beyond Europe and the United States.

Sydney FC, founded in 2004, compete in Australia's A-League, having won the most championships and premierships in both the Australian men's and women's competitions.

By sponsoring both the men's and women's teams, Nexen Tire aims to maximize exposure and enhance global brand value, the company said in a statement announcing the partnership. The brand plans to leverage Sydney FC's digital platforms to engage fans via social media, newsletters and targeted advertisements. At home games, Nexen Tire will exhibit its brand logo on LED display boards, including advertisements around the goalposts during broadcasts, resulting in a stronger partnership impact.

For more information, visit nexentire.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Signups are open for aftermarket companies and industry professionals to host a table at the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)/Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Career Fair to be held at both SEMA Garage locations. The Career Fair at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan, will take place on February 22, 2025, and the Career Fair at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, will take place on March 8, 2025. Both events are from 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. EST/PST. 

The Career Fair is part of ETTN's and SAE's shared goal of connecting future engineers and automotive students with the industry's current workforce. During the event, participating companies will share advice and career opportunities with students looking to jumpstart their careers in the specialty-equipment industry, as well as provide feedback for those actively building vehicles for SAE Collegiate Design Competitions.

Hosting a table is free for SEMA members, and $500 for non-SEMA members. Returning for its fourth consecutive year, the career fair is a great way for aftermarket businesses to meet potential candidates, increase brand awareness and connect with the greater aftermarket community. 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 Detroit, Michigan.

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

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA and PRI are proud to announce that their magazines are now available in a fully digital format, making industry-leading content more accessible than ever. The first digital issues of both SEMA magazine and PRI Magazine debuted last month. Importantly, print editions of both magazines will continue to be offered, ensuring readers can enjoy their preferred format.

This transition allows the magazines to significantly expand their coverage and share information to more industry professionals across the country and around the world. Readers can enjoy the same high-quality content from anywhere, on any device, providing greater flexibility and convenience. By offering a digital option, both organizations are ensuring that their valuable insights, updates and industry perspectives are available to members and professionals around the world.

The new digital platform, powered by Zinio, provides readers with an exceptional experience, combining user-friendly navigation with advanced tools. Key features include cross-platform Single-Sign-On (SSO) for seamless access, text-to-speech functionality for on-the-go accessibility and an intuitive article search service powered by IBM Watson's Natural Language Understanding (NLU) technology.

"We're excited to make SEMA magazine available in digital format, giving our readers more ways to access the content they trust," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "This expansion ensures that we can connect with even more professionals across the industry no matter where they are--whether they're at their desks, traveling or anywhere in between."

PRI President Michael Good shared similar enthusiasm, stating, "The digital format of PRI Magazine allows us to broaden our reach and connect with a wider audience while maintaining the high-quality content our readers have come to expect. At the same time, we remain committed to continuing the print edition for those who prefer it."

To subscribe to the digital version of SEMA magazine, click here; to subscribe to the digital version of PRI Magazine, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

RealTruck, the Ann Arbor, Michigan-based aftermarket product and accessory brand, has entered a strategic agreement to acquire the Vehicle Accessories Group.

Headquartered in Mesquite, Texas, Vehicle Accessories Group manufactures a variety of vehicle accessories, including all-weather floor mats, running boards, protective door edge guards, splash guards, body side moldings, bumper protectors and door sills. The acquisition expands RealTruck's position across a broader group of both domestic and foreign vehicle manufacturers, the company said.

The acquisition will allow RealTruck to bring more products to Vehicle Accessories Group customers, the company said, leveraging its services to assist dealers in driving sales of the combined product portfolio. Additionally, it will expand RealTruck's manufacturing capabilities, according to a statement announcing the acquisition.

"We are excited about bringing together two companies that complement one another and look forward to accelerating growth for both businesses," said Carl-Martin Lindahl, CEO of RealTruck. "Further, this acquisition supports our strategic plans to grow the entire market by inspiring more people to bring their vehicle to life by accessorizing their vehicles."

"RealTruck will deliver resources, expertise and global reach for our business operations, our products, and to the benefit of our existing customers," said J Pearson, executive chairman, Vehicle Accessories Group. "Simply put, joining the RealTruck family accelerates our future growth.

The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025. 

For more information, visit realtruck.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Sarah Duran, brand manager at KW Automotive North America, the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Duran was nominated for a spotlight feature by her industry peer, Matt Behrnes. Get to know Duran through Behrnes' interview with SEMA News below.

SEMA News: How has Duran contributed to the company?

Matt Behrnes: Sarah has always strived to be the best she can be. Whether that be turning wrenches, product and technical knowledge or business aptitude. Her dedication to herself to become better has benefitted the company daily for years.

SN: How has Duran shown leadership in the industry or business?

MB: One part of Sarah's story that I always admired was when she held the customer service manager position. She led a young, very green group of young men. You didn't have to watch it directly; you could see the maturity and growth shown by the young men she led in their day-to-day actions that she was making a huge impact on their careers.

SN: Tell us a success story that you can share about Duran.

MB: Sarah, herself, is a success story. I have watched her join the company at an entry-level customer service position and work her way up the ladder to lead/manage a full male sales and technical support staff on to now brand manager overseeing all engineering, marketing and sales activities for the entire Belltech Sport Trucks brand.

SN: How many years has Duran been in the industry?

MB: 10-plus years.

SN: What quality do you admire most about Duran and why?

MB: Sarah's drive is her most admirable quality to me. It is what has taken her to the professional level she is today in leading one the industry's most recognized and successful suspension brands in the market.

SN: Why do you think Duran is a role model in the industry?

MB: Sarah is a role model in the industry because she does not back down to any new challenge and the word "quit" is not in her vocabulary. She tackles all challenges and opportunities with class and professionalism with a smile on her face.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.

By SEMA News Editors

QruisinPCH—the creators of the Quarantine Cruise known as one of the largest car cruises in the nation—will unite the 42 Foundation, the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association and Foundation for the Hotrods 'N Helos Classic Car Show on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

This inaugural event, presented by Optimum First Mortgage, will celebrate the best of SoCal's car culture: hot rods, classics, customs, vintage, trucks, old muscle and more, all set against the scenic backdrop of Huntington Beach, California. These prized vehicles will be displayed alongside law enforcement and privately owned helicopters, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for attendees. For car enthusiasts and aviation fans alike, this is a rare opportunity to see stunning vehicles, helicopters and the industry's leading supporting brands come together in a picturesque beachside setting.

Highlights also include vendors, an extensive VIP hospitality area, local food trucks, live entertainment and more. Vehicle registration is now open, and sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available for this first-time event.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the 42 Foundation, which, since 2000, has provided more than $1.4 million in support to law enforcement programs, community aid, and the well-being of Huntington Beach Police Officers Association employees and their families.

To learn more and to register, visit hotrodsnhelos.com.