Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:52

SEMA News—October 2015

NEW PRODUCTS

2015 New Products Preview

A First Look at What You’ll Find at the SEMA Show

For buyers, the SEMA Show is all about finding the latest and greatest innovations in the automotive sphere. The best place to start looking is the New Products Showcase, where exhibitors display their latest offerings in one place. This year, the New Products Showcase will be located in the Skybridge between the Central and South Halls. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find there November 3–6, 2015.

View the Entire 2015 SEMA Show New Products Preview

Advanced Engine Management (AEM)
Booth #24313

The Infinity ECUThe Infinity ECU is now available for ’06–’15 Mazda 2.0L MZR race engines with a 36-2-2-2 crank-tooth profile and 4+2 cam-tooth profile. The Infinity ECU is a complete standalone programmable ECU that includes multiple boost control strategies, programmable nitrous control, programmable variable valve cam timing control, on-the-fly map switching, programmable traction control, launch control, flex fuel and multi-fuel capability. Information: www.aemelectronics.com or 310-484-2322.

 

Aero Exhaust
Booth #33316

Aero ExhaustAero Exhaust displays its new line of T304 stainless-steel turbo-back exhausts for Mk6 and Mk7 Volkswagen models. This includes the kit for the Mk7 1.8t Golf Sportwagen. These exhausts were designed utilizing the patented Aeroturbine airfoil technology to reduce exhaust-system restriction and create a tone that no other company can replicate. The new turbo-back systems also utilize Aero Exhaust’s popular ceramic-packed resonators to eliminate rasp and drone. Information: www.aeroexhaust.com or 801-301-0408.

   

Airgas
Booth #16727

Airgas Inc.Airgas Ny-Trous+ nitrous oxide is designed to improve performance and increase torque without excessive rpm. Denatured with 100 parts per million of sulfur dioxide to prevent abuse, Ny-Trous+ is manufactured and distributed by Airgas and conforms to strict safety standards. Information: www.airgas.com or 610-263-8260.
 

Air Design
Booth #12367

Air Design Air Design reveals a new concept in truck accessories called Super-Rim. The product technology is designed to upgrade the appearance and protection of pickups. In addition, the easy-to-install system speeds up installation processes and cuts down costs in the industry, bringing aftermarket operations a huge new concept of simplicity, design and trend. Information: www.airdesignusa.com or 844-280-2774.

 

   

Auto Cap North America
Booth #11410

Auto Cap North AmericaAuto Cap North America debuts a locking wheel-nut key bag and wheel-nut bag made of long-lasting poly-cotton fiber. Designed to solve a problem that is often overlooked, it helps users avoid the expense of replacing a lost locking wheel-nut key. The brightly colored bags can be handed out to customers of new or used vehicles.

They are also easy to use for technicians or customers when needed. The bags are customizable with company logos so that they can be used as gifts or promotional tools. Information: www.autocap.com.mx or 604-628-7676.

 

Bestop
Booth #30017

BestopBestop’s new Trektop Pro Jeep Wrangler top features a removable hard rear glass hatch on a soft top for one-hand operation and easy accessibility to the rear cargo area. Considered a top for all seasons, the 30-oz., triple-layer, black acrylic twill fabric delivers maximum durability with a no-wrinkle appearance and weighs up to 50 lbs. less than a hard top, which can help save gas. The sliding glass side windows provide extra ventilation for front- and rear-seat passengers and easy installation or removal of rear hatch and side window panels. The removable rear glass hatch also has gas-assist struts and an integrated defroster connector plus a mounting point for a rear wiper motor assembly. Available for ’07–’15 Wrangler two-door and Wrangler Unlimited four-door models. Information: www.bestop.com or 800-345-3567.

   

BDS Suspension
Booth #30192

BDSBDS Suspension adds to its lineup of 2–6-in. suspension lift options for ’14–’15 Ram 2500 trucks with new 3-in. radius arm systems designed to give users all the performance of a full-out lift system but at a smaller height, allowing the use of up to 35-in. tires. The kits are tuned specifically for the new Ram 2500 trucks and offer premium ride quality and performance in any terrain while being backed by BDS’ unmatched, No Fine Print warranty. Information: www.bds-suspension.com or 517-279-2135.

 

Big Mike’s Performance Parts
Booth #12943

Big Mike's PerformanceBig Mike’s Performance Parts announces the availability of the Sto N Sho for the ’14–’16 Jaguar F-Type. The Sto N Sho is custom fitted and consists of a front license plate holder and a base mounting plate that allows for the quick and easy removal and replacement of the front license plate. When the front license plate holder is removed, the remaining base plate is virtually undetectable. The Sto N Sho allows customers to comply with state law while maintaining the beauty of their vehicles. The product is available for many other vehicles as well. Information: www.bigmikesperformanceparts.com or 831-663-4849.

   

Bolt
Booth #35133

BOLTBolt’s unique, patented, one-key lock technology permanently programs the locks on tonneau covers to the truck’s ignition key so that just a single key is needed, no matter how many Bolt locks are in use. Spring-loaded plate tumblers move the first time the key is inserted into the Bolt lock cylinder, immediately coding the cylinder to that unique key. Bolt locks are available for many Ford, Ram, Toyota, Nissan and General Motors light truck models, including the new GM center-cut high-security keys for late-model pickups. Information: www.boltlock.com or 877-251-8798.

 

Bosch
Booth #16007

BoschBosch Automotive Service Solutions announces the Power DCPlus fast charger in North America, starting at less than $10,000. Using the SAE J1772 DC Combo connector, the 24-kW Bosch Power DCPlus will charge compatible EVs to 80% in less than 30 minutes. The station has been approved by General Motors and can be ordered through GM’s dealer equipment program. DC fast chargers supply power directly to a vehicle’s battery, resulting in a faster charge. The Power DCPlus is also ChargePoint-network-enabled, allowing electric vehicle drivers to access the stations with a ChargePoint card and determine station availability in real time. Information: www.pluginnow.com or 877-805-3873.

 
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:52

SEMA News—October 2015

NEW PRODUCTS

2015 New Products Preview

A First Look at What You’ll Find at the SEMA Show

For buyers, the SEMA Show is all about finding the latest and greatest innovations in the automotive sphere. The best place to start looking is the New Products Showcase, where exhibitors display their latest offerings in one place. This year, the New Products Showcase will be located in the Skybridge between the Central and South Halls. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find there November 3–6, 2015.

View the Entire 2015 SEMA Show New Products Preview

Advanced Engine Management (AEM)
Booth #24313

The Infinity ECUThe Infinity ECU is now available for ’06–’15 Mazda 2.0L MZR race engines with a 36-2-2-2 crank-tooth profile and 4+2 cam-tooth profile. The Infinity ECU is a complete standalone programmable ECU that includes multiple boost control strategies, programmable nitrous control, programmable variable valve cam timing control, on-the-fly map switching, programmable traction control, launch control, flex fuel and multi-fuel capability. Information: www.aemelectronics.com or 310-484-2322.

 

Aero Exhaust
Booth #33316

Aero ExhaustAero Exhaust displays its new line of T304 stainless-steel turbo-back exhausts for Mk6 and Mk7 Volkswagen models. This includes the kit for the Mk7 1.8t Golf Sportwagen. These exhausts were designed utilizing the patented Aeroturbine airfoil technology to reduce exhaust-system restriction and create a tone that no other company can replicate. The new turbo-back systems also utilize Aero Exhaust’s popular ceramic-packed resonators to eliminate rasp and drone. Information: www.aeroexhaust.com or 801-301-0408.

   

Airgas
Booth #16727

Airgas Inc.Airgas Ny-Trous+ nitrous oxide is designed to improve performance and increase torque without excessive rpm. Denatured with 100 parts per million of sulfur dioxide to prevent abuse, Ny-Trous+ is manufactured and distributed by Airgas and conforms to strict safety standards. Information: www.airgas.com or 610-263-8260.
 

Air Design
Booth #12367

Air Design Air Design reveals a new concept in truck accessories called Super-Rim. The product technology is designed to upgrade the appearance and protection of pickups. In addition, the easy-to-install system speeds up installation processes and cuts down costs in the industry, bringing aftermarket operations a huge new concept of simplicity, design and trend. Information: www.airdesignusa.com or 844-280-2774.

 

   

Auto Cap North America
Booth #11410

Auto Cap North AmericaAuto Cap North America debuts a locking wheel-nut key bag and wheel-nut bag made of long-lasting poly-cotton fiber. Designed to solve a problem that is often overlooked, it helps users avoid the expense of replacing a lost locking wheel-nut key. The brightly colored bags can be handed out to customers of new or used vehicles.

They are also easy to use for technicians or customers when needed. The bags are customizable with company logos so that they can be used as gifts or promotional tools. Information: www.autocap.com.mx or 604-628-7676.

 

Bestop
Booth #30017

BestopBestop’s new Trektop Pro Jeep Wrangler top features a removable hard rear glass hatch on a soft top for one-hand operation and easy accessibility to the rear cargo area. Considered a top for all seasons, the 30-oz., triple-layer, black acrylic twill fabric delivers maximum durability with a no-wrinkle appearance and weighs up to 50 lbs. less than a hard top, which can help save gas. The sliding glass side windows provide extra ventilation for front- and rear-seat passengers and easy installation or removal of rear hatch and side window panels. The removable rear glass hatch also has gas-assist struts and an integrated defroster connector plus a mounting point for a rear wiper motor assembly. Available for ’07–’15 Wrangler two-door and Wrangler Unlimited four-door models. Information: www.bestop.com or 800-345-3567.

   

BDS Suspension
Booth #30192

BDSBDS Suspension adds to its lineup of 2–6-in. suspension lift options for ’14–’15 Ram 2500 trucks with new 3-in. radius arm systems designed to give users all the performance of a full-out lift system but at a smaller height, allowing the use of up to 35-in. tires. The kits are tuned specifically for the new Ram 2500 trucks and offer premium ride quality and performance in any terrain while being backed by BDS’ unmatched, No Fine Print warranty. Information: www.bds-suspension.com or 517-279-2135.

 

Big Mike’s Performance Parts
Booth #12943

Big Mike's PerformanceBig Mike’s Performance Parts announces the availability of the Sto N Sho for the ’14–’16 Jaguar F-Type. The Sto N Sho is custom fitted and consists of a front license plate holder and a base mounting plate that allows for the quick and easy removal and replacement of the front license plate. When the front license plate holder is removed, the remaining base plate is virtually undetectable. The Sto N Sho allows customers to comply with state law while maintaining the beauty of their vehicles. The product is available for many other vehicles as well. Information: www.bigmikesperformanceparts.com or 831-663-4849.

   

Bolt
Booth #35133

BOLTBolt’s unique, patented, one-key lock technology permanently programs the locks on tonneau covers to the truck’s ignition key so that just a single key is needed, no matter how many Bolt locks are in use. Spring-loaded plate tumblers move the first time the key is inserted into the Bolt lock cylinder, immediately coding the cylinder to that unique key. Bolt locks are available for many Ford, Ram, Toyota, Nissan and General Motors light truck models, including the new GM center-cut high-security keys for late-model pickups. Information: www.boltlock.com or 877-251-8798.

 

Bosch
Booth #16007

BoschBosch Automotive Service Solutions announces the Power DCPlus fast charger in North America, starting at less than $10,000. Using the SAE J1772 DC Combo connector, the 24-kW Bosch Power DCPlus will charge compatible EVs to 80% in less than 30 minutes. The station has been approved by General Motors and can be ordered through GM’s dealer equipment program. DC fast chargers supply power directly to a vehicle’s battery, resulting in a faster charge. The Power DCPlus is also ChargePoint-network-enabled, allowing electric vehicle drivers to access the stations with a ChargePoint card and determine station availability in real time. Information: www.pluginnow.com or 877-805-3873.

 
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:52

SEMA News—October 2015

NEW PRODUCTS

2015 New Products Preview

A First Look at What You’ll Find at the SEMA Show

For buyers, the SEMA Show is all about finding the latest and greatest innovations in the automotive sphere. The best place to start looking is the New Products Showcase, where exhibitors display their latest offerings in one place. This year, the New Products Showcase will be located in the Skybridge between the Central and South Halls. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find there November 3–6, 2015.

View the Entire 2015 SEMA Show New Products Preview

Advanced Engine Management (AEM)
Booth #24313

The Infinity ECUThe Infinity ECU is now available for ’06–’15 Mazda 2.0L MZR race engines with a 36-2-2-2 crank-tooth profile and 4+2 cam-tooth profile. The Infinity ECU is a complete standalone programmable ECU that includes multiple boost control strategies, programmable nitrous control, programmable variable valve cam timing control, on-the-fly map switching, programmable traction control, launch control, flex fuel and multi-fuel capability. Information: www.aemelectronics.com or 310-484-2322.

 

Aero Exhaust
Booth #33316

Aero ExhaustAero Exhaust displays its new line of T304 stainless-steel turbo-back exhausts for Mk6 and Mk7 Volkswagen models. This includes the kit for the Mk7 1.8t Golf Sportwagen. These exhausts were designed utilizing the patented Aeroturbine airfoil technology to reduce exhaust-system restriction and create a tone that no other company can replicate. The new turbo-back systems also utilize Aero Exhaust’s popular ceramic-packed resonators to eliminate rasp and drone. Information: www.aeroexhaust.com or 801-301-0408.

   

Airgas
Booth #16727

Airgas Inc.Airgas Ny-Trous+ nitrous oxide is designed to improve performance and increase torque without excessive rpm. Denatured with 100 parts per million of sulfur dioxide to prevent abuse, Ny-Trous+ is manufactured and distributed by Airgas and conforms to strict safety standards. Information: www.airgas.com or 610-263-8260.
 

Air Design
Booth #12367

Air Design Air Design reveals a new concept in truck accessories called Super-Rim. The product technology is designed to upgrade the appearance and protection of pickups. In addition, the easy-to-install system speeds up installation processes and cuts down costs in the industry, bringing aftermarket operations a huge new concept of simplicity, design and trend. Information: www.airdesignusa.com or 844-280-2774.

 

   

Auto Cap North America
Booth #11410

Auto Cap North AmericaAuto Cap North America debuts a locking wheel-nut key bag and wheel-nut bag made of long-lasting poly-cotton fiber. Designed to solve a problem that is often overlooked, it helps users avoid the expense of replacing a lost locking wheel-nut key. The brightly colored bags can be handed out to customers of new or used vehicles.

They are also easy to use for technicians or customers when needed. The bags are customizable with company logos so that they can be used as gifts or promotional tools. Information: www.autocap.com.mx or 604-628-7676.

 

Bestop
Booth #30017

BestopBestop’s new Trektop Pro Jeep Wrangler top features a removable hard rear glass hatch on a soft top for one-hand operation and easy accessibility to the rear cargo area. Considered a top for all seasons, the 30-oz., triple-layer, black acrylic twill fabric delivers maximum durability with a no-wrinkle appearance and weighs up to 50 lbs. less than a hard top, which can help save gas. The sliding glass side windows provide extra ventilation for front- and rear-seat passengers and easy installation or removal of rear hatch and side window panels. The removable rear glass hatch also has gas-assist struts and an integrated defroster connector plus a mounting point for a rear wiper motor assembly. Available for ’07–’15 Wrangler two-door and Wrangler Unlimited four-door models. Information: www.bestop.com or 800-345-3567.

   

BDS Suspension
Booth #30192

BDSBDS Suspension adds to its lineup of 2–6-in. suspension lift options for ’14–’15 Ram 2500 trucks with new 3-in. radius arm systems designed to give users all the performance of a full-out lift system but at a smaller height, allowing the use of up to 35-in. tires. The kits are tuned specifically for the new Ram 2500 trucks and offer premium ride quality and performance in any terrain while being backed by BDS’ unmatched, No Fine Print warranty. Information: www.bds-suspension.com or 517-279-2135.

 

Big Mike’s Performance Parts
Booth #12943

Big Mike's PerformanceBig Mike’s Performance Parts announces the availability of the Sto N Sho for the ’14–’16 Jaguar F-Type. The Sto N Sho is custom fitted and consists of a front license plate holder and a base mounting plate that allows for the quick and easy removal and replacement of the front license plate. When the front license plate holder is removed, the remaining base plate is virtually undetectable. The Sto N Sho allows customers to comply with state law while maintaining the beauty of their vehicles. The product is available for many other vehicles as well. Information: www.bigmikesperformanceparts.com or 831-663-4849.

   

Bolt
Booth #35133

BOLTBolt’s unique, patented, one-key lock technology permanently programs the locks on tonneau covers to the truck’s ignition key so that just a single key is needed, no matter how many Bolt locks are in use. Spring-loaded plate tumblers move the first time the key is inserted into the Bolt lock cylinder, immediately coding the cylinder to that unique key. Bolt locks are available for many Ford, Ram, Toyota, Nissan and General Motors light truck models, including the new GM center-cut high-security keys for late-model pickups. Information: www.boltlock.com or 877-251-8798.

 

Bosch
Booth #16007

BoschBosch Automotive Service Solutions announces the Power DCPlus fast charger in North America, starting at less than $10,000. Using the SAE J1772 DC Combo connector, the 24-kW Bosch Power DCPlus will charge compatible EVs to 80% in less than 30 minutes. The station has been approved by General Motors and can be ordered through GM’s dealer equipment program. DC fast chargers supply power directly to a vehicle’s battery, resulting in a faster charge. The Power DCPlus is also ChargePoint-network-enabled, allowing electric vehicle drivers to access the stations with a ChargePoint card and determine station availability in real time. Information: www.pluginnow.com or 877-805-3873.

 
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:52

SEMA News—October 2015

NEW PRODUCTS

2015 New Products Preview

A First Look at What You’ll Find at the SEMA Show

For buyers, the SEMA Show is all about finding the latest and greatest innovations in the automotive sphere. The best place to start looking is the New Products Showcase, where exhibitors display their latest offerings in one place. This year, the New Products Showcase will be located in the Skybridge between the Central and South Halls. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find there November 3–6, 2015.

View the Entire 2015 SEMA Show New Products Preview

Advanced Engine Management (AEM)
Booth #24313

The Infinity ECUThe Infinity ECU is now available for ’06–’15 Mazda 2.0L MZR race engines with a 36-2-2-2 crank-tooth profile and 4+2 cam-tooth profile. The Infinity ECU is a complete standalone programmable ECU that includes multiple boost control strategies, programmable nitrous control, programmable variable valve cam timing control, on-the-fly map switching, programmable traction control, launch control, flex fuel and multi-fuel capability. Information: www.aemelectronics.com or 310-484-2322.

 

Aero Exhaust
Booth #33316

Aero ExhaustAero Exhaust displays its new line of T304 stainless-steel turbo-back exhausts for Mk6 and Mk7 Volkswagen models. This includes the kit for the Mk7 1.8t Golf Sportwagen. These exhausts were designed utilizing the patented Aeroturbine airfoil technology to reduce exhaust-system restriction and create a tone that no other company can replicate. The new turbo-back systems also utilize Aero Exhaust’s popular ceramic-packed resonators to eliminate rasp and drone. Information: www.aeroexhaust.com or 801-301-0408.

   

Airgas
Booth #16727

Airgas Inc.Airgas Ny-Trous+ nitrous oxide is designed to improve performance and increase torque without excessive rpm. Denatured with 100 parts per million of sulfur dioxide to prevent abuse, Ny-Trous+ is manufactured and distributed by Airgas and conforms to strict safety standards. Information: www.airgas.com or 610-263-8260.
 

Air Design
Booth #12367

Air Design Air Design reveals a new concept in truck accessories called Super-Rim. The product technology is designed to upgrade the appearance and protection of pickups. In addition, the easy-to-install system speeds up installation processes and cuts down costs in the industry, bringing aftermarket operations a huge new concept of simplicity, design and trend. Information: www.airdesignusa.com or 844-280-2774.

 

   

Auto Cap North America
Booth #11410

Auto Cap North AmericaAuto Cap North America debuts a locking wheel-nut key bag and wheel-nut bag made of long-lasting poly-cotton fiber. Designed to solve a problem that is often overlooked, it helps users avoid the expense of replacing a lost locking wheel-nut key. The brightly colored bags can be handed out to customers of new or used vehicles.

They are also easy to use for technicians or customers when needed. The bags are customizable with company logos so that they can be used as gifts or promotional tools. Information: www.autocap.com.mx or 604-628-7676.

 

Bestop
Booth #30017

BestopBestop’s new Trektop Pro Jeep Wrangler top features a removable hard rear glass hatch on a soft top for one-hand operation and easy accessibility to the rear cargo area. Considered a top for all seasons, the 30-oz., triple-layer, black acrylic twill fabric delivers maximum durability with a no-wrinkle appearance and weighs up to 50 lbs. less than a hard top, which can help save gas. The sliding glass side windows provide extra ventilation for front- and rear-seat passengers and easy installation or removal of rear hatch and side window panels. The removable rear glass hatch also has gas-assist struts and an integrated defroster connector plus a mounting point for a rear wiper motor assembly. Available for ’07–’15 Wrangler two-door and Wrangler Unlimited four-door models. Information: www.bestop.com or 800-345-3567.

   

BDS Suspension
Booth #30192

BDSBDS Suspension adds to its lineup of 2–6-in. suspension lift options for ’14–’15 Ram 2500 trucks with new 3-in. radius arm systems designed to give users all the performance of a full-out lift system but at a smaller height, allowing the use of up to 35-in. tires. The kits are tuned specifically for the new Ram 2500 trucks and offer premium ride quality and performance in any terrain while being backed by BDS’ unmatched, No Fine Print warranty. Information: www.bds-suspension.com or 517-279-2135.

 

Big Mike’s Performance Parts
Booth #12943

Big Mike's PerformanceBig Mike’s Performance Parts announces the availability of the Sto N Sho for the ’14–’16 Jaguar F-Type. The Sto N Sho is custom fitted and consists of a front license plate holder and a base mounting plate that allows for the quick and easy removal and replacement of the front license plate. When the front license plate holder is removed, the remaining base plate is virtually undetectable. The Sto N Sho allows customers to comply with state law while maintaining the beauty of their vehicles. The product is available for many other vehicles as well. Information: www.bigmikesperformanceparts.com or 831-663-4849.

   

Bolt
Booth #35133

BOLTBolt’s unique, patented, one-key lock technology permanently programs the locks on tonneau covers to the truck’s ignition key so that just a single key is needed, no matter how many Bolt locks are in use. Spring-loaded plate tumblers move the first time the key is inserted into the Bolt lock cylinder, immediately coding the cylinder to that unique key. Bolt locks are available for many Ford, Ram, Toyota, Nissan and General Motors light truck models, including the new GM center-cut high-security keys for late-model pickups. Information: www.boltlock.com or 877-251-8798.

 

Bosch
Booth #16007

BoschBosch Automotive Service Solutions announces the Power DCPlus fast charger in North America, starting at less than $10,000. Using the SAE J1772 DC Combo connector, the 24-kW Bosch Power DCPlus will charge compatible EVs to 80% in less than 30 minutes. The station has been approved by General Motors and can be ordered through GM’s dealer equipment program. DC fast chargers supply power directly to a vehicle’s battery, resulting in a faster charge. The Power DCPlus is also ChargePoint-network-enabled, allowing electric vehicle drivers to access the stations with a ChargePoint card and determine station availability in real time. Information: www.pluginnow.com or 877-805-3873.

 
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:52

SEMA News—October 2015

NEW PRODUCTS

2015 New Products Preview

A First Look at What You’ll Find at the SEMA Show

For buyers, the SEMA Show is all about finding the latest and greatest innovations in the automotive sphere. The best place to start looking is the New Products Showcase, where exhibitors display their latest offerings in one place. This year, the New Products Showcase will be located in the Skybridge between the Central and South Halls. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find there November 3–6, 2015.

View the Entire 2015 SEMA Show New Products Preview

Advanced Engine Management (AEM)
Booth #24313

The Infinity ECUThe Infinity ECU is now available for ’06–’15 Mazda 2.0L MZR race engines with a 36-2-2-2 crank-tooth profile and 4+2 cam-tooth profile. The Infinity ECU is a complete standalone programmable ECU that includes multiple boost control strategies, programmable nitrous control, programmable variable valve cam timing control, on-the-fly map switching, programmable traction control, launch control, flex fuel and multi-fuel capability. Information: www.aemelectronics.com or 310-484-2322.

 

Aero Exhaust
Booth #33316

Aero ExhaustAero Exhaust displays its new line of T304 stainless-steel turbo-back exhausts for Mk6 and Mk7 Volkswagen models. This includes the kit for the Mk7 1.8t Golf Sportwagen. These exhausts were designed utilizing the patented Aeroturbine airfoil technology to reduce exhaust-system restriction and create a tone that no other company can replicate. The new turbo-back systems also utilize Aero Exhaust’s popular ceramic-packed resonators to eliminate rasp and drone. Information: www.aeroexhaust.com or 801-301-0408.

   

Airgas
Booth #16727

Airgas Inc.Airgas Ny-Trous+ nitrous oxide is designed to improve performance and increase torque without excessive rpm. Denatured with 100 parts per million of sulfur dioxide to prevent abuse, Ny-Trous+ is manufactured and distributed by Airgas and conforms to strict safety standards. Information: www.airgas.com or 610-263-8260.
 

Air Design
Booth #12367

Air Design Air Design reveals a new concept in truck accessories called Super-Rim. The product technology is designed to upgrade the appearance and protection of pickups. In addition, the easy-to-install system speeds up installation processes and cuts down costs in the industry, bringing aftermarket operations a huge new concept of simplicity, design and trend. Information: www.airdesignusa.com or 844-280-2774.

 

   

Auto Cap North America
Booth #11410

Auto Cap North AmericaAuto Cap North America debuts a locking wheel-nut key bag and wheel-nut bag made of long-lasting poly-cotton fiber. Designed to solve a problem that is often overlooked, it helps users avoid the expense of replacing a lost locking wheel-nut key. The brightly colored bags can be handed out to customers of new or used vehicles.

They are also easy to use for technicians or customers when needed. The bags are customizable with company logos so that they can be used as gifts or promotional tools. Information: www.autocap.com.mx or 604-628-7676.

 

Bestop
Booth #30017

BestopBestop’s new Trektop Pro Jeep Wrangler top features a removable hard rear glass hatch on a soft top for one-hand operation and easy accessibility to the rear cargo area. Considered a top for all seasons, the 30-oz., triple-layer, black acrylic twill fabric delivers maximum durability with a no-wrinkle appearance and weighs up to 50 lbs. less than a hard top, which can help save gas. The sliding glass side windows provide extra ventilation for front- and rear-seat passengers and easy installation or removal of rear hatch and side window panels. The removable rear glass hatch also has gas-assist struts and an integrated defroster connector plus a mounting point for a rear wiper motor assembly. Available for ’07–’15 Wrangler two-door and Wrangler Unlimited four-door models. Information: www.bestop.com or 800-345-3567.

   

BDS Suspension
Booth #30192

BDSBDS Suspension adds to its lineup of 2–6-in. suspension lift options for ’14–’15 Ram 2500 trucks with new 3-in. radius arm systems designed to give users all the performance of a full-out lift system but at a smaller height, allowing the use of up to 35-in. tires. The kits are tuned specifically for the new Ram 2500 trucks and offer premium ride quality and performance in any terrain while being backed by BDS’ unmatched, No Fine Print warranty. Information: www.bds-suspension.com or 517-279-2135.

 

Big Mike’s Performance Parts
Booth #12943

Big Mike's PerformanceBig Mike’s Performance Parts announces the availability of the Sto N Sho for the ’14–’16 Jaguar F-Type. The Sto N Sho is custom fitted and consists of a front license plate holder and a base mounting plate that allows for the quick and easy removal and replacement of the front license plate. When the front license plate holder is removed, the remaining base plate is virtually undetectable. The Sto N Sho allows customers to comply with state law while maintaining the beauty of their vehicles. The product is available for many other vehicles as well. Information: www.bigmikesperformanceparts.com or 831-663-4849.

   

Bolt
Booth #35133

BOLTBolt’s unique, patented, one-key lock technology permanently programs the locks on tonneau covers to the truck’s ignition key so that just a single key is needed, no matter how many Bolt locks are in use. Spring-loaded plate tumblers move the first time the key is inserted into the Bolt lock cylinder, immediately coding the cylinder to that unique key. Bolt locks are available for many Ford, Ram, Toyota, Nissan and General Motors light truck models, including the new GM center-cut high-security keys for late-model pickups. Information: www.boltlock.com or 877-251-8798.

 

Bosch
Booth #16007

BoschBosch Automotive Service Solutions announces the Power DCPlus fast charger in North America, starting at less than $10,000. Using the SAE J1772 DC Combo connector, the 24-kW Bosch Power DCPlus will charge compatible EVs to 80% in less than 30 minutes. The station has been approved by General Motors and can be ordered through GM’s dealer equipment program. DC fast chargers supply power directly to a vehicle’s battery, resulting in a faster charge. The Power DCPlus is also ChargePoint-network-enabled, allowing electric vehicle drivers to access the stations with a ChargePoint card and determine station availability in real time. Information: www.pluginnow.com or 877-805-3873.

 
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:45

SEMA News—October 2015

INTERNATIONAL

By Alysha Webb

Rigid Industries: Prowess in Exporting

Rigid Industries
The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year, said Rigid Industries International Account Manager Robert Park (far left). All of the company’s lights are made in the U.S.A. Park is pictured showing the firm’s lights to buyers at a SEMA event in Russia. Rigid has also participated on SEMA business-development programs to China and the Middle East.
 
  

This is another in a periodic series of reports on SEMA-member companies that have successfully grown their international sales. Each of the companies has utilized one or more SEMA resources or programs designed to assist member companies in growing their export sales. This month’s story features Arizona-based Rigid Industries. SEMA News talked to the firm’s international account manager, Robert Park.

In May, Rigid Industries received a President’s “E” Award for its prowess at exporting. The maker of LED lighting for vehicles has clients in 45 countries, and its international sales are skyrocketing.

“We receive several inquiries a week from customers wanting to distribute our products,” said Park. “The struggle is finding the right person to promote and sell Rigid.”

Rigid Industries is well known in the North American off-road world. Founded in 2006, the company is famous for its super-powerful LED light bars. Rigid is entering new market segments domestically and overseas in response to the flattening U.S. off-road market, Park said. He shared some insights into the company’s strong export growth.

Park said that the true off-road enthusiast market is still growing overseas, especially in Australia and throughout Europe. The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year.

All of Rigid’s lights are made in the U.S.A. and will fit most vehicles, whether U.S. or foreign models, Park said. In addition, Rigid has found opportunities to expand by selling to police, fire and rescue departments as well as agriculture and mining markets.

Rigid prefers to go through distributors rather than dealers in overseas markets. Distributors often have a good-size marketing budget and a sales staff that can promote products. That alleviates Rigid from having to add staff to handle those tasks.

“Having a distributor model allows Rigid to maintain local inventory, and the end customer doesn’t have to deal with delays when their product ships from the United States,” Park said.

Attending international trade shows and events is critical to Rigid’s international success. Park said that he meets many potential distributors at those events. That includes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. International companies willing to spend the time and money to be in Vegas are typically good partners to team up with, Park said.

Rigid has also participated in SEMA trips to China, Russia and the Middle East. At the SEMA Russia pilot program, Park met Rigid’s distributor face-to-face and found that it was the best distributor to have in that market. The trips also provided Rigid with the opportunity to network with other U.S. companies and see how they deal with those countries and attain success.

Park meets potential partners at SEMA events such as the SEMA Show International Happy Hour and roundtables. The people at those events are always the big players in the international markets.

Follow-up is key. Park always tries to have a one-on-one conversation immediately after the event with a person he wants to stay in touch with. He also highly recommends working with the U.S. Commercial Service. Rigid meets with U.S. Commercial Service representatives around the world to identify the best markets to target. Company staff also attends local Commercial Service events to educate the company about specific markets.

For example, the U.S. Commercial Service’s Export Trading Control Seminar taught Rigid about the type of import paperwork required for each country—a potential barrier to entry if not done correctly. The Commercial Service can also help with local certification.

Companies that have few qualifications will often present themselves as distributors, Park warned. The Commercial Service’s Matching Gold Key Service saves time and money by pre-screening potential distributors. It also helps Rigid identify key distributors in specific verticals that might not be accessible to the company otherwise.

Country-Specific Products and Marketing

In the past, Rigid sold products overseas that were originally created for the United States market. Now the company is looking for opportunities to create products for overseas niches. It developed several lights for the Norwegian military, for example—a project driven by Rigid’s Norway distributor and its public safety manager,
said Park.

Rigid Industries traditionally had international distributors adapt the U.S. marketing material to their market. Now, Rigid Industries is considering creating country-specific marketing to gain more market share.

For more information about SEMA’s international programs and resources, including the upcoming March SEMA trip to the Middle East and a trip in May to Russia, visit www.sema.org/international or contact Linda Spencer, SEMA’s international director, at lindas@sema.org.

Rigid’s Top 10 Tips for Growing International Sales
  1. Maximize your freight to your customer and work with good shippers. Ship as much as you can on a pallet within the allowed size and weight for a specific shipping price.
  2. Don’t be afraid to turn down a new customer if it is not the right fit for your company.
  3. Look for customers with strong marketing resources and exposure within the market. This will help build your brand.
  4. Work with local representative firms in the territory, if they exist. They are boots on the ground that you don’t have.
  5. Attend local events and trade shows to test your product in the market.
  6. Understand the product certifications that are needed in the targeted market.
  7. Work and learn from other non-competing U.S. companies in your markets. They can teach you about the market, including the key players.
  8. Take full advantage of U.S. Commercial Service resources, especially its Matching Gold Key Service.
  9. Use SEMA events to find new partners, meet existing partners face-to-face, and network with other U.S. companies.
  10. Follow up with contacts made at a SEMA roundtable, for example, by immediately approaching them personally.
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:45

SEMA News—October 2015

INTERNATIONAL

By Alysha Webb

Rigid Industries: Prowess in Exporting

Rigid Industries
The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year, said Rigid Industries International Account Manager Robert Park (far left). All of the company’s lights are made in the U.S.A. Park is pictured showing the firm’s lights to buyers at a SEMA event in Russia. Rigid has also participated on SEMA business-development programs to China and the Middle East.
 
  

This is another in a periodic series of reports on SEMA-member companies that have successfully grown their international sales. Each of the companies has utilized one or more SEMA resources or programs designed to assist member companies in growing their export sales. This month’s story features Arizona-based Rigid Industries. SEMA News talked to the firm’s international account manager, Robert Park.

In May, Rigid Industries received a President’s “E” Award for its prowess at exporting. The maker of LED lighting for vehicles has clients in 45 countries, and its international sales are skyrocketing.

“We receive several inquiries a week from customers wanting to distribute our products,” said Park. “The struggle is finding the right person to promote and sell Rigid.”

Rigid Industries is well known in the North American off-road world. Founded in 2006, the company is famous for its super-powerful LED light bars. Rigid is entering new market segments domestically and overseas in response to the flattening U.S. off-road market, Park said. He shared some insights into the company’s strong export growth.

Park said that the true off-road enthusiast market is still growing overseas, especially in Australia and throughout Europe. The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year.

All of Rigid’s lights are made in the U.S.A. and will fit most vehicles, whether U.S. or foreign models, Park said. In addition, Rigid has found opportunities to expand by selling to police, fire and rescue departments as well as agriculture and mining markets.

Rigid prefers to go through distributors rather than dealers in overseas markets. Distributors often have a good-size marketing budget and a sales staff that can promote products. That alleviates Rigid from having to add staff to handle those tasks.

“Having a distributor model allows Rigid to maintain local inventory, and the end customer doesn’t have to deal with delays when their product ships from the United States,” Park said.

Attending international trade shows and events is critical to Rigid’s international success. Park said that he meets many potential distributors at those events. That includes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. International companies willing to spend the time and money to be in Vegas are typically good partners to team up with, Park said.

Rigid has also participated in SEMA trips to China, Russia and the Middle East. At the SEMA Russia pilot program, Park met Rigid’s distributor face-to-face and found that it was the best distributor to have in that market. The trips also provided Rigid with the opportunity to network with other U.S. companies and see how they deal with those countries and attain success.

Park meets potential partners at SEMA events such as the SEMA Show International Happy Hour and roundtables. The people at those events are always the big players in the international markets.

Follow-up is key. Park always tries to have a one-on-one conversation immediately after the event with a person he wants to stay in touch with. He also highly recommends working with the U.S. Commercial Service. Rigid meets with U.S. Commercial Service representatives around the world to identify the best markets to target. Company staff also attends local Commercial Service events to educate the company about specific markets.

For example, the U.S. Commercial Service’s Export Trading Control Seminar taught Rigid about the type of import paperwork required for each country—a potential barrier to entry if not done correctly. The Commercial Service can also help with local certification.

Companies that have few qualifications will often present themselves as distributors, Park warned. The Commercial Service’s Matching Gold Key Service saves time and money by pre-screening potential distributors. It also helps Rigid identify key distributors in specific verticals that might not be accessible to the company otherwise.

Country-Specific Products and Marketing

In the past, Rigid sold products overseas that were originally created for the United States market. Now the company is looking for opportunities to create products for overseas niches. It developed several lights for the Norwegian military, for example—a project driven by Rigid’s Norway distributor and its public safety manager,
said Park.

Rigid Industries traditionally had international distributors adapt the U.S. marketing material to their market. Now, Rigid Industries is considering creating country-specific marketing to gain more market share.

For more information about SEMA’s international programs and resources, including the upcoming March SEMA trip to the Middle East and a trip in May to Russia, visit www.sema.org/international or contact Linda Spencer, SEMA’s international director, at lindas@sema.org.

Rigid’s Top 10 Tips for Growing International Sales
  1. Maximize your freight to your customer and work with good shippers. Ship as much as you can on a pallet within the allowed size and weight for a specific shipping price.
  2. Don’t be afraid to turn down a new customer if it is not the right fit for your company.
  3. Look for customers with strong marketing resources and exposure within the market. This will help build your brand.
  4. Work with local representative firms in the territory, if they exist. They are boots on the ground that you don’t have.
  5. Attend local events and trade shows to test your product in the market.
  6. Understand the product certifications that are needed in the targeted market.
  7. Work and learn from other non-competing U.S. companies in your markets. They can teach you about the market, including the key players.
  8. Take full advantage of U.S. Commercial Service resources, especially its Matching Gold Key Service.
  9. Use SEMA events to find new partners, meet existing partners face-to-face, and network with other U.S. companies.
  10. Follow up with contacts made at a SEMA roundtable, for example, by immediately approaching them personally.
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:45

SEMA News—October 2015

INTERNATIONAL

By Alysha Webb

Rigid Industries: Prowess in Exporting

Rigid Industries
The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year, said Rigid Industries International Account Manager Robert Park (far left). All of the company’s lights are made in the U.S.A. Park is pictured showing the firm’s lights to buyers at a SEMA event in Russia. Rigid has also participated on SEMA business-development programs to China and the Middle East.
 
  

This is another in a periodic series of reports on SEMA-member companies that have successfully grown their international sales. Each of the companies has utilized one or more SEMA resources or programs designed to assist member companies in growing their export sales. This month’s story features Arizona-based Rigid Industries. SEMA News talked to the firm’s international account manager, Robert Park.

In May, Rigid Industries received a President’s “E” Award for its prowess at exporting. The maker of LED lighting for vehicles has clients in 45 countries, and its international sales are skyrocketing.

“We receive several inquiries a week from customers wanting to distribute our products,” said Park. “The struggle is finding the right person to promote and sell Rigid.”

Rigid Industries is well known in the North American off-road world. Founded in 2006, the company is famous for its super-powerful LED light bars. Rigid is entering new market segments domestically and overseas in response to the flattening U.S. off-road market, Park said. He shared some insights into the company’s strong export growth.

Park said that the true off-road enthusiast market is still growing overseas, especially in Australia and throughout Europe. The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year.

All of Rigid’s lights are made in the U.S.A. and will fit most vehicles, whether U.S. or foreign models, Park said. In addition, Rigid has found opportunities to expand by selling to police, fire and rescue departments as well as agriculture and mining markets.

Rigid prefers to go through distributors rather than dealers in overseas markets. Distributors often have a good-size marketing budget and a sales staff that can promote products. That alleviates Rigid from having to add staff to handle those tasks.

“Having a distributor model allows Rigid to maintain local inventory, and the end customer doesn’t have to deal with delays when their product ships from the United States,” Park said.

Attending international trade shows and events is critical to Rigid’s international success. Park said that he meets many potential distributors at those events. That includes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. International companies willing to spend the time and money to be in Vegas are typically good partners to team up with, Park said.

Rigid has also participated in SEMA trips to China, Russia and the Middle East. At the SEMA Russia pilot program, Park met Rigid’s distributor face-to-face and found that it was the best distributor to have in that market. The trips also provided Rigid with the opportunity to network with other U.S. companies and see how they deal with those countries and attain success.

Park meets potential partners at SEMA events such as the SEMA Show International Happy Hour and roundtables. The people at those events are always the big players in the international markets.

Follow-up is key. Park always tries to have a one-on-one conversation immediately after the event with a person he wants to stay in touch with. He also highly recommends working with the U.S. Commercial Service. Rigid meets with U.S. Commercial Service representatives around the world to identify the best markets to target. Company staff also attends local Commercial Service events to educate the company about specific markets.

For example, the U.S. Commercial Service’s Export Trading Control Seminar taught Rigid about the type of import paperwork required for each country—a potential barrier to entry if not done correctly. The Commercial Service can also help with local certification.

Companies that have few qualifications will often present themselves as distributors, Park warned. The Commercial Service’s Matching Gold Key Service saves time and money by pre-screening potential distributors. It also helps Rigid identify key distributors in specific verticals that might not be accessible to the company otherwise.

Country-Specific Products and Marketing

In the past, Rigid sold products overseas that were originally created for the United States market. Now the company is looking for opportunities to create products for overseas niches. It developed several lights for the Norwegian military, for example—a project driven by Rigid’s Norway distributor and its public safety manager,
said Park.

Rigid Industries traditionally had international distributors adapt the U.S. marketing material to their market. Now, Rigid Industries is considering creating country-specific marketing to gain more market share.

For more information about SEMA’s international programs and resources, including the upcoming March SEMA trip to the Middle East and a trip in May to Russia, visit www.sema.org/international or contact Linda Spencer, SEMA’s international director, at lindas@sema.org.

Rigid’s Top 10 Tips for Growing International Sales
  1. Maximize your freight to your customer and work with good shippers. Ship as much as you can on a pallet within the allowed size and weight for a specific shipping price.
  2. Don’t be afraid to turn down a new customer if it is not the right fit for your company.
  3. Look for customers with strong marketing resources and exposure within the market. This will help build your brand.
  4. Work with local representative firms in the territory, if they exist. They are boots on the ground that you don’t have.
  5. Attend local events and trade shows to test your product in the market.
  6. Understand the product certifications that are needed in the targeted market.
  7. Work and learn from other non-competing U.S. companies in your markets. They can teach you about the market, including the key players.
  8. Take full advantage of U.S. Commercial Service resources, especially its Matching Gold Key Service.
  9. Use SEMA events to find new partners, meet existing partners face-to-face, and network with other U.S. companies.
  10. Follow up with contacts made at a SEMA roundtable, for example, by immediately approaching them personally.
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:45

SEMA News—October 2015

INTERNATIONAL

By Alysha Webb

Rigid Industries: Prowess in Exporting

Rigid Industries
The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year, said Rigid Industries International Account Manager Robert Park (far left). All of the company’s lights are made in the U.S.A. Park is pictured showing the firm’s lights to buyers at a SEMA event in Russia. Rigid has also participated on SEMA business-development programs to China and the Middle East.
 
  

This is another in a periodic series of reports on SEMA-member companies that have successfully grown their international sales. Each of the companies has utilized one or more SEMA resources or programs designed to assist member companies in growing their export sales. This month’s story features Arizona-based Rigid Industries. SEMA News talked to the firm’s international account manager, Robert Park.

In May, Rigid Industries received a President’s “E” Award for its prowess at exporting. The maker of LED lighting for vehicles has clients in 45 countries, and its international sales are skyrocketing.

“We receive several inquiries a week from customers wanting to distribute our products,” said Park. “The struggle is finding the right person to promote and sell Rigid.”

Rigid Industries is well known in the North American off-road world. Founded in 2006, the company is famous for its super-powerful LED light bars. Rigid is entering new market segments domestically and overseas in response to the flattening U.S. off-road market, Park said. He shared some insights into the company’s strong export growth.

Park said that the true off-road enthusiast market is still growing overseas, especially in Australia and throughout Europe. The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year.

All of Rigid’s lights are made in the U.S.A. and will fit most vehicles, whether U.S. or foreign models, Park said. In addition, Rigid has found opportunities to expand by selling to police, fire and rescue departments as well as agriculture and mining markets.

Rigid prefers to go through distributors rather than dealers in overseas markets. Distributors often have a good-size marketing budget and a sales staff that can promote products. That alleviates Rigid from having to add staff to handle those tasks.

“Having a distributor model allows Rigid to maintain local inventory, and the end customer doesn’t have to deal with delays when their product ships from the United States,” Park said.

Attending international trade shows and events is critical to Rigid’s international success. Park said that he meets many potential distributors at those events. That includes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. International companies willing to spend the time and money to be in Vegas are typically good partners to team up with, Park said.

Rigid has also participated in SEMA trips to China, Russia and the Middle East. At the SEMA Russia pilot program, Park met Rigid’s distributor face-to-face and found that it was the best distributor to have in that market. The trips also provided Rigid with the opportunity to network with other U.S. companies and see how they deal with those countries and attain success.

Park meets potential partners at SEMA events such as the SEMA Show International Happy Hour and roundtables. The people at those events are always the big players in the international markets.

Follow-up is key. Park always tries to have a one-on-one conversation immediately after the event with a person he wants to stay in touch with. He also highly recommends working with the U.S. Commercial Service. Rigid meets with U.S. Commercial Service representatives around the world to identify the best markets to target. Company staff also attends local Commercial Service events to educate the company about specific markets.

For example, the U.S. Commercial Service’s Export Trading Control Seminar taught Rigid about the type of import paperwork required for each country—a potential barrier to entry if not done correctly. The Commercial Service can also help with local certification.

Companies that have few qualifications will often present themselves as distributors, Park warned. The Commercial Service’s Matching Gold Key Service saves time and money by pre-screening potential distributors. It also helps Rigid identify key distributors in specific verticals that might not be accessible to the company otherwise.

Country-Specific Products and Marketing

In the past, Rigid sold products overseas that were originally created for the United States market. Now the company is looking for opportunities to create products for overseas niches. It developed several lights for the Norwegian military, for example—a project driven by Rigid’s Norway distributor and its public safety manager,
said Park.

Rigid Industries traditionally had international distributors adapt the U.S. marketing material to their market. Now, Rigid Industries is considering creating country-specific marketing to gain more market share.

For more information about SEMA’s international programs and resources, including the upcoming March SEMA trip to the Middle East and a trip in May to Russia, visit www.sema.org/international or contact Linda Spencer, SEMA’s international director, at lindas@sema.org.

Rigid’s Top 10 Tips for Growing International Sales
  1. Maximize your freight to your customer and work with good shippers. Ship as much as you can on a pallet within the allowed size and weight for a specific shipping price.
  2. Don’t be afraid to turn down a new customer if it is not the right fit for your company.
  3. Look for customers with strong marketing resources and exposure within the market. This will help build your brand.
  4. Work with local representative firms in the territory, if they exist. They are boots on the ground that you don’t have.
  5. Attend local events and trade shows to test your product in the market.
  6. Understand the product certifications that are needed in the targeted market.
  7. Work and learn from other non-competing U.S. companies in your markets. They can teach you about the market, including the key players.
  8. Take full advantage of U.S. Commercial Service resources, especially its Matching Gold Key Service.
  9. Use SEMA events to find new partners, meet existing partners face-to-face, and network with other U.S. companies.
  10. Follow up with contacts made at a SEMA roundtable, for example, by immediately approaching them personally.
Thu, 10/01/2015 - 13:45

SEMA News—October 2015

INTERNATIONAL

By Alysha Webb

Rigid Industries: Prowess in Exporting

Rigid Industries
The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year, said Rigid Industries International Account Manager Robert Park (far left). All of the company’s lights are made in the U.S.A. Park is pictured showing the firm’s lights to buyers at a SEMA event in Russia. Rigid has also participated on SEMA business-development programs to China and the Middle East.
 
  

This is another in a periodic series of reports on SEMA-member companies that have successfully grown their international sales. Each of the companies has utilized one or more SEMA resources or programs designed to assist member companies in growing their export sales. This month’s story features Arizona-based Rigid Industries. SEMA News talked to the firm’s international account manager, Robert Park.

In May, Rigid Industries received a President’s “E” Award for its prowess at exporting. The maker of LED lighting for vehicles has clients in 45 countries, and its international sales are skyrocketing.

“We receive several inquiries a week from customers wanting to distribute our products,” said Park. “The struggle is finding the right person to promote and sell Rigid.”

Rigid Industries is well known in the North American off-road world. Founded in 2006, the company is famous for its super-powerful LED light bars. Rigid is entering new market segments domestically and overseas in response to the flattening U.S. off-road market, Park said. He shared some insights into the company’s strong export growth.

Park said that the true off-road enthusiast market is still growing overseas, especially in Australia and throughout Europe. The company has had an average growth rate of 104% over the last three years, and international sales have accounted for about 30% of total revenue each year.

All of Rigid’s lights are made in the U.S.A. and will fit most vehicles, whether U.S. or foreign models, Park said. In addition, Rigid has found opportunities to expand by selling to police, fire and rescue departments as well as agriculture and mining markets.

Rigid prefers to go through distributors rather than dealers in overseas markets. Distributors often have a good-size marketing budget and a sales staff that can promote products. That alleviates Rigid from having to add staff to handle those tasks.

“Having a distributor model allows Rigid to maintain local inventory, and the end customer doesn’t have to deal with delays when their product ships from the United States,” Park said.

Attending international trade shows and events is critical to Rigid’s international success. Park said that he meets many potential distributors at those events. That includes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. International companies willing to spend the time and money to be in Vegas are typically good partners to team up with, Park said.

Rigid has also participated in SEMA trips to China, Russia and the Middle East. At the SEMA Russia pilot program, Park met Rigid’s distributor face-to-face and found that it was the best distributor to have in that market. The trips also provided Rigid with the opportunity to network with other U.S. companies and see how they deal with those countries and attain success.

Park meets potential partners at SEMA events such as the SEMA Show International Happy Hour and roundtables. The people at those events are always the big players in the international markets.

Follow-up is key. Park always tries to have a one-on-one conversation immediately after the event with a person he wants to stay in touch with. He also highly recommends working with the U.S. Commercial Service. Rigid meets with U.S. Commercial Service representatives around the world to identify the best markets to target. Company staff also attends local Commercial Service events to educate the company about specific markets.

For example, the U.S. Commercial Service’s Export Trading Control Seminar taught Rigid about the type of import paperwork required for each country—a potential barrier to entry if not done correctly. The Commercial Service can also help with local certification.

Companies that have few qualifications will often present themselves as distributors, Park warned. The Commercial Service’s Matching Gold Key Service saves time and money by pre-screening potential distributors. It also helps Rigid identify key distributors in specific verticals that might not be accessible to the company otherwise.

Country-Specific Products and Marketing

In the past, Rigid sold products overseas that were originally created for the United States market. Now the company is looking for opportunities to create products for overseas niches. It developed several lights for the Norwegian military, for example—a project driven by Rigid’s Norway distributor and its public safety manager,
said Park.

Rigid Industries traditionally had international distributors adapt the U.S. marketing material to their market. Now, Rigid Industries is considering creating country-specific marketing to gain more market share.

For more information about SEMA’s international programs and resources, including the upcoming March SEMA trip to the Middle East and a trip in May to Russia, visit www.sema.org/international or contact Linda Spencer, SEMA’s international director, at lindas@sema.org.

Rigid’s Top 10 Tips for Growing International Sales
  1. Maximize your freight to your customer and work with good shippers. Ship as much as you can on a pallet within the allowed size and weight for a specific shipping price.
  2. Don’t be afraid to turn down a new customer if it is not the right fit for your company.
  3. Look for customers with strong marketing resources and exposure within the market. This will help build your brand.
  4. Work with local representative firms in the territory, if they exist. They are boots on the ground that you don’t have.
  5. Attend local events and trade shows to test your product in the market.
  6. Understand the product certifications that are needed in the targeted market.
  7. Work and learn from other non-competing U.S. companies in your markets. They can teach you about the market, including the key players.
  8. Take full advantage of U.S. Commercial Service resources, especially its Matching Gold Key Service.
  9. Use SEMA events to find new partners, meet existing partners face-to-face, and network with other U.S. companies.
  10. Follow up with contacts made at a SEMA roundtable, for example, by immediately approaching them personally.