The goal of the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is simple: To develop a centralized industry data repository. The recently announced SEMA Search, which is powered by information gathered through the SDC, is an Internet-based electronic catalog that salespeople at WDs and retailers can access to look up parts online.

The SDC provides education, assistance and tools—such as SEMA Search—needed to help manufacturers bring their product information into the SDC repository. The SDC ensures that the submitted data is complete, meets the industry’s data standards and employs its industry-powered delivery method to get the data to resellers using the info to fuel their business systems.

The SDC not only provides the opportunity for resellers to view more sales options than ever, but also delivers the information to market at a speed rarely experienced before.

For more information, visit www.semadatacoop.org. Manufacturers that are ready to get started or have questions are invited to contact SDC’s Director of Membership Jim Graven at jimg@semadatacoop.org.

	As they did with the Prius, Toyota designers clearly went out of the way to ensure the Mirai looks like nothing else on the road, as they did with the Prius. Some love the looks, some hate them, but whatever the opinion, there will be no mistaking the car when the first units appear in mid-2015.
	Combined investments by Toyota, the State of California and Air Liquide, a hydrogen producer, will result in well over 100 hydrogen stations in California alone within the next two years. Production in the first year will be limited to roughly 300 vehicles, eventually ramping up to somewhere near 3,000 per year. By the time hydrogen fuel stations are in demand, there will be enough to go around.

True to its promise, Toyota has become the first manufacturer to build a production car powered by a fuel cell ready for sale. In November Toyota announced the name of the car, Mirai, which means “the future” in Japanese. At a recent event tied in with the Los Angeles Auto Show, Toyota allowed automotive journalists and business reporters to drive the car, which in simplest terms might be described as a hybrid Camry with a better battery.

That “better battery” would be a hydrogen fuel cell, which offers numerous advantages over actual battery packs. Hydrogen fuel cells can be refueled in 3–5 minutes, instead of hours for a battery pack, and they weigh less. The hydrogen is held in two heavily reinforced high-pressure storage tanks at about 10,000 psi—enough fuel to enable about a 300-mile range. These components offer packaging advantages that result in a low center of gravity and sporty cornering capacity.

Toyota’s advance presentation included experts who suggested the car represented a turning point in clean transportation, and addressed questions about what it would be like to live with a hydrogen car. To the assembled audience, their assertions that hydrogen will become a big player in the future seemed generally credible.

The Mirai driving experience is very similar to driving a plug-in electric car—very quiet, good throttle response and thanks to the low center of gravity and attention of the suspension, very good ride and handling characteristics.

The powertrain is rated at 153 hp with 247 lb.-ft. of torque. Unlike the Prius, the Mirai is a four-seat sedan with a trunk instead of a hatch, so direct comparisons are inappropriate, but the Mirai is clearly a more relaxing car to drive, with better interior appointments, better handling and lower NVH. It also will be priced differently—somewhere around $57,500, leasable for $499. After federal and state rebates and tax credits, the bottom line will be somewhere under $50,000.

The Mirai goes on sale in Japan by the end of 2014, and in selected regional North American markets in the second half of 2015. How fuel-cell technology will affect enthusiasts and car collectors remains to be seen, but we can foresee the day when hydrogen cars will make a presence on the SEMA Show floor.

By John Stewart

The Los Angeles Auto Show has developed a reputation as a “green” show that strongly focuses on alternative fuels and novel forms of propulsion. This may have been the case in prior years, but the 2014 L.A. Auto Show had more to offer enthusiasts than recent years, as a burst of “track-ready” performance cars and creative variants on existing platforms came to light. That made it more like the SEMA Show—an optimistic environment in which OEM exhibitors launched fun-to-drive new models and showed off interesting concept cars that may very well enter production. Among them were several vehicles that could be of special relevance to SEMA members.

The new Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang is equipped with a 5.2L V8 engine that will crank out more than 500hp and more than 400 lb.-ft. of torque. It rides on 19-in. aluminum-alloy wheels. Performance upgrades include MagneRide dampers, aggressive brakes and finely tuned aerodynamics.		The Infiniti Q80 Inspiration Concept features a new hybrid powerplant that pairs a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine to an electric motor making a combined 550hp.
Coming to dealerships in 2015, the Scion iM hatchback concept rests atop 19-in. forged alloy wheels, and features geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights.		The rugged Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 concept rides on 18-in. aluminum wheels and is 4 in. wider than the Colorado Z71. The pickup is powered by a 2.8L Duramax diesel producing 181 hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque.
The Lexus LF-C2 2+2 roadster concept features small vents in the side sills, which direct air to the rear brakes and out the fin-like rear diffusers. The rear end is highlighted by L-shaped taillight bulbs and an exhaust system with chrome-covered quad exhaust tips.

By John Stewart

The Los Angeles Auto Show has developed a reputation as a “green” show that strongly focuses on alternative fuels and novel forms of propulsion. This may have been the case in prior years, but the 2014 L.A. Auto Show had more to offer enthusiasts than recent years, as a burst of “track-ready” performance cars and creative variants on existing platforms came to light. That made it more like the SEMA Show—an optimistic environment in which OEM exhibitors launched fun-to-drive new models and showed off interesting concept cars that may very well enter production. Among them were several vehicles that could be of special relevance to SEMA members.

The new Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang is equipped with a 5.2L V8 engine that will crank out more than 500hp and more than 400 lb.-ft. of torque. It rides on 19-in. aluminum-alloy wheels. Performance upgrades include MagneRide dampers, aggressive brakes and finely tuned aerodynamics.		The Infiniti Q80 Inspiration Concept features a new hybrid powerplant that pairs a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine to an electric motor making a combined 550hp.
Coming to dealerships in 2015, the Scion iM hatchback concept rests atop 19-in. forged alloy wheels, and features geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights.		The rugged Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 concept rides on 18-in. aluminum wheels and is 4 in. wider than the Colorado Z71. The pickup is powered by a 2.8L Duramax diesel producing 181 hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque.
The Lexus LF-C2 2+2 roadster concept features small vents in the side sills, which direct air to the rear brakes and out the fin-like rear diffusers. The rear end is highlighted by L-shaped taillight bulbs and an exhaust system with chrome-covered quad exhaust tips.

By Steve Campbell

With your company’s pre-promotion complete, and the 2014 SEMA Show now a memory, it’s time to cement sales by reaching out to buyers post-Show.

Exhibitors can connect with more buyers at the SEMA Show than they might otherwise encounter in weeks or even months from their offices. But the connections aren’t automatic. In order to cement sales, exhibitors need to promote their attendance before the Show, offer a compelling display on-site and then follow up on quality leads after the Show.

According to a report entitled “2013 SEMA Show Research”—a post-Show survey of exhibitors and attendees—almost 90% of exhibitors at the 2013 SEMA Show said that they exhibit in order to generate leads and increase awareness of their companies. Slightly higher percentages said that those objectives were met at the 2013 Show.

By Steve Campbell

With your company’s pre-promotion complete, and the 2014 SEMA Show now a memory, it’s time to cement sales by reaching out to buyers post-Show.

Exhibitors can connect with more buyers at the SEMA Show than they might otherwise encounter in weeks or even months from their offices. But the connections aren’t automatic. In order to cement sales, exhibitors need to promote their attendance before the Show, offer a compelling display on-site and then follow up on quality leads after the Show.

According to a report entitled “2013 SEMA Show Research”—a post-Show survey of exhibitors and attendees—almost 90% of exhibitors at the 2013 SEMA Show said that they exhibit in order to generate leads and increase awareness of their companies. Slightly higher percentages said that those objectives were met at the 2013 Show.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

	John Scott, of 360 Tint in San Antonio, Texas, won the Chrome Sweet Chrome grand-prize full-car makeover.

Avery Dennison Announces Winner of Chrome Sweet Chrome Promotion

Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions has announced that John Scott, of 360 Tint in San Antonio, Texas, has won the Chrome Sweet Chrome grand-prize full-car makeover, which includes an Avery Dennison car wrap of Scott’s choosing with installation, Giovanna wheels, DUB audio package and Croftgate cleaning supplies. 360 Tint, which specializes in window tints, graphic wraps and paint protection films, plans to customize its company car—an ’07 Chevy HHR LTD Panel SS Front.

The Chrome Sweet Chrome promotion highlighted the versatility of vehicle wrap films and how they can be used to create full or partial car wraps. Car enthusiasts entered the promotion through text message and an online form before and during the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 4–7. Daily prizes were awarded, in addition to the grand-prize vehicle makeover. Avery Dennison’s SEMA Show partners included West Coast Customs, CroftgateUSA, DUB magazine, Advanta, Eagle Enterprises, Universal Products, Oracle Lighting and Toyo Tire.

Jerome Lentz

Automotive Lift Institute Names Jerome Lentz Chairman

Jerome Lentz of Challenger Lifts has been elected chairman of the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) Board of Directors for 2015. Voting took place at ALI’s annual membership meeting November in Las Vegas. Lentz’s 2015 term will be his third as chairman of the ALI board. Returning board members for 2015 include Jeff Kritzer of BendPak Inc., Peter Liebetreu of Hunter Engineering Co., Stet Schanze of Gray Manufacturing Co. Inc. and O’Gorman. New members include Stan Poweska of PKS Equipment & Engineering Inc., Matt Webster of Vehicle Service Group and Associate Class representative Gary Wainwright of Weco Inc.

Representatives on the ALI Board of Directors are drawn from the North American-based vehicle lift manufacturers that belong to ALI. ALI’s Associate Class membership is comprised of North American service organizations supporting the service bay with at least one ALI Certified Lift Inspector on staff. Associate Class members vote to elect their representative to the Board.

Jerome Lentz was elected chairman of the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) Board of Directors for 2015. 

	The Holley EFI Digital Dash claimed the award for Best Engineered New Product at the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Holley EFI Digital Dash Claims SEMA Award for Best Engineered New Product

The soon-to-be-realeased Holley EFI Digital Dash claimed the award for Best Engineered New Product at the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The award is based on product innovatiion, quality and workmanship and overall technical achievement.

The Holley EFI Digital Dash features plug-and-play compatibility with all Holley EFI systems via a CANbus connection. The compact unit features a 7-in. low-glare, high-brightness, high-contrast, full-color touch screen for easy viewing, even in full sunlight. The customizable screen allows users to choose multiple gauge and indicator types for use in a variety of motorsports applications. The Holley EFI Digital Dash also allows users to toggle through multiple active screens (tune, warm-up, race, drive, etc.), and set up user-defined alarms and configurable shift lights. It also allows on-screen playback of Holley EFI data logs and it has a digital switch panel that eliminates the need for mounting analog switches to control various aspects of the vehicle's drivetrain. The Holley EFI Digital Dash is scheduled to be available for purchase in mid-December.

BMW i3 Named Green Car Journal's 2015 Car of the Year

BMW’s i3—an electric car built with a lightweight carbon-fiber passenger cell and an aluminum drive module—has been named Green Car Journal’s 2015 Green Car of the Year, which was announced at the LA Auto Show. Green Car of the Year finalists also included the Audi A3 TDI, Chevrolet Impala Bi-Fuel, Honda Fit and VW Golf. The Green Car of the Year award is an honor widely recognized as the auto industry’s most important environmental accolade.

The first all-electric vehicle to win Green Car Journal’s Green Car of the Year, the i3 benefits from BMW’s years-long ‘project i’ initiative that focuses on future mobility and strategies for sustainable transportation. While the i3 is designed as a battery-electric car, its optional REx gasoline engine-generator enables extended driving range with electricity created on board.

Along with Jay Leno, the Green Car of the Year jury includes leaders of noted environmental and efficiency organizations, including Jean-Michel Cousteau, president of Ocean Futures Society; Matt Petersen, board member of Global Green USA; Mindy Lubber, president of CERES; Kateri Callahan, president of the Alliance to Save Energy; and Dr. Alan Lloyd, president emeritus of the International Council on Clean Transportation and former CalEPA secretary and chairman of the California Air Resources Board. The jury is rounded out by a smaller number of Green Car Journal editors.

The magazine’s vetting process considers all vehicles, fuels, and technologies as the field of nominees is narrowed down to five finalists that significantly raise the bar in environmental performance. Vehicles that are all-new, or in the early stages of their model lifecycle, are considered, and finalists must be on sale by January 1 of the award year. Availability and market significance are factors to ensure that models have the potential to make a real impact on improving air quality, reducing greenhouse gases, and promoting transportation efficiency.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

Journalists—including freelancers, bloggers, TV reporters and magazine writers—are invited to sit down in private, uninterrupted meetings with executives from manufacturing companies, January 20–22, 2015, at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North in Santa Ana, California.

Reporters are able to select representatives from the companies they wish to meet to ensure relevancy to their outlet by registering at www.sema.org/mtcreg. Early registration guarantees that reporters will receive the best possible schedule in advance of the event.

By SEMA Editors

Journalists—including freelancers, bloggers, TV reporters and magazine writers—are invited to sit down in private, uninterrupted meetings with executives from manufacturing companies, January 20–22, 2015, at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North in Santa Ana, California.

Reporters are able to select representatives from the companies they wish to meet to ensure relevancy to their outlet by registering at www.sema.org/mtcreg. Early registration guarantees that reporters will receive the best possible schedule in advance of the event.

Are you hunting for a new job? The “Positions Available” section in the SEMA Member Classifieds lists more than 50 job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest classifieds posted to the website.

• EXEDY, located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is hiring an aftermarket sales rep responsible for actively managing customer accounts. The successful candidate will have more than three years’ proven sales experience and technical knowledge of drivetrain components.

• Go Rhino, located in Brea, California, is hiring an inside sales rep with a minimum of three years of inside automotive aftermarket sales experience. The successful candidate will be responsible for handling day-to-day activities of multiple accounts, assisting with technical support, order processing and post-sales customer service.

• Stillen, located in Costa Mesa, California, is hiring an Internet sales coordinator to check and verify incoming orders, interface with customers and vendors by e-mail and phone, track order progress and  guarantee customer satisfaction. The ability to learn systems and procedures is key, and effective written and verbal communication is required.

View more listings from SEMA's Automotive Classifieds listings.