Thu, 09/11/2014 - 15:16

By John Stewart

  sinbadSinbad
  harding
Curtis Harding

Comedian and SEMA Show crowd favorite Sinbad—along with up-and-coming soul and R&B artist Curtis Harding—will entertain guests at the 2014 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet. The annual industry celebration, taking place Thursday, November 6, features dinner and a presentation of several industry awards, including the SEMA Person of the Year, WD of the Year and Rep Agency of the Year.

Sinbad is internationally known for his starring appearances in hit movies, such as Jingle All the Way, playing opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger; Houseguest, co-starring the late Phil Hartman; and his film debut Necessary Roughness, where he performed none of his own stunts. He has starred in the television sitcom, “A Different World” and his own series, “The Sinbad Show.”

Versatile vocalist Curtis Harding fuses the passion and intensity of classic soul and R&B with the attitude of indie rock, and has made a name for himself in both rock and R&B circles. Born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan, Harding settled in Atlanta. Harding's vocals have appeared on several remixes from OutKast, and he became part of Cee Lo Green's team, working with him as a back-up vocalist on the road, adding vocal tracks to albums and co-writing material with Green. Harding’s acclaimed full-length effort, Soul Power, appeared in the spring of 2014. Check out Harding on YouTube.

Banquet attendees who have already ordered tickets must pick them up upstairs outside of the Member’s Lounge in Room N251. Tickets can be retrieved Sunday through Wednesday, from 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Thursday, from and 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Order banquet tickets now!

Questions? Please contact semabanquet@sema.org.

Thu, 09/11/2014 - 15:14

By SEMA Editors

 meguiar
"Car Crazy TV" is now booking interviews for the "Car Crazy TV" Stage during the 2014 SEMA Show. 
  

For the 11th consecutive year, Barry Meguiar, president and host of "Car Crazy TV," will talk with the biggest names in the automotive industry during the 2014 SEMA Show, November 4–7, in Las Vegas. "Car Crazy TV" will broadcast live on screens throughout the SEMA Show halls and to more than 92,000 Las Vegas hotel rooms. A portion of the interviews will also be aired as "Car Crazy TV" episodes during the 2015 season.
 
Stage hours are as follows:

  • Tuesday, November 4: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, November 5: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, November 6: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Learn more about the show and to view the latest episodes.
 
Interview requests or inquiries may be sumbitted to JMPR Public Relations at carcrazy@jmprpublicrelations.com.

Thu, 09/11/2014 - 15:14

By SEMA Editors

 meguiar
"Car Crazy TV" is now booking interviews for the "Car Crazy TV" Stage during the 2014 SEMA Show. 
  

For the 11th consecutive year, Barry Meguiar, president and host of "Car Crazy TV," will talk with the biggest names in the automotive industry during the 2014 SEMA Show, November 4–7, in Las Vegas. "Car Crazy TV" will broadcast live on screens throughout the SEMA Show halls and to more than 92,000 Las Vegas hotel rooms. A portion of the interviews will also be aired as "Car Crazy TV" episodes during the 2015 season.
 
Stage hours are as follows:

  • Tuesday, November 4: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, November 5: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, November 6: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Learn more about the show and to view the latest episodes.
 
Interview requests or inquiries may be sumbitted to JMPR Public Relations at carcrazy@jmprpublicrelations.com.

Thu, 09/11/2014 - 15:07

By Becca Butler

  scholarship
2013 SEMA Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness recipients.
  

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded $152,000 to 61 individuals this year. This includes 44 SEMA scholarships presented to current students, and 17 loan-forgiveness awards presented to employees of SEMA-member companies. In addition, one student was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Ohio Technical College for the 2014–2015 academic year.

Recipients of these scholarships will enter into the disciplines of automotive engineering and technology, automotive aftermarket, mechanical engineering, business management, electrical engineering, education, industrial engineering and design, automotive machinist and public affairs/administration.

More than $2 million has been awarded to more than 1,000 deserving students since the program’s establishment in 1984. The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund and the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program are dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket industry leaders and innovators by helping them get off to a successful start in their education and automotive aftermarket career.

The online application for next year’s awards will be accepted November 3, 2014, through April 1, 2015, at www.sema.org/scholarship. For questions or additional information, contact SEMA Education Manager Juliet Marshall by phone at 909-978-6655 or e-mail julietm@SEMA.org.

2014 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Award Winners

  • Tyler W. Bagby, Johnson County Community College
  • Damian T. Begler, School of Automotive Machinists
  • Brandon J. Belcher, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Brenden D. Bungert, University of Minnesota-Duluth
  • Alexis Art Cadiao, Mira Costa College (Steve Woomer Award)
  • Ryan A. Call, Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Trevor A. Chaney, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Dalyn M. Cirac, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Austin T. Ellis, Colorado School of Mines
  • Lee S. Engelhardt, Northwood University
  • Sara J. Erhart, Wyoming Technical Institute (SEMA Businesswomen’s Network Award)
  • Chester L. Fisher, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Justin L. Furman, Washtenaw Community College
  • Matthew Fusco, Northwood University
  • Hugo Hernandez, California State University-Northridge (Louis L. Borick Award)
  • Austin W. Hiebert, McPherson College (John Menzler & HRIA Award)
  • Nicholas V. Hines, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Leonard R. Howe, Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Eric A. Jiskra, Eastern Michigan University
  • Jeremy Johnson, Columbus State Community College (Melvin Burton Award)
  • Jeffery Kesterson, Oregon Institute of Technology
  • Thomas C. Klein, University of Northwestern Ohio (Don Turney Award)
  • Mark Lopresto, Cleveland Institute of Art (Harlan Felder Award)
  • Brent Maynard, University of Northwestern Ohio (MPMC Award)
  • Shaun Michael McCarthy, Stanford University
  • Jacob E. Mischel, North Dakota State University-Main Campus
  • Sara E. Mohon, Clemson University
  • Tyler K. Nelson, Brigham Young University-Idaho (PWA & TORA Award)
  • Harmon L. Newhouse, Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Kaj Niegmann, Georgia Institute of Technology (Bernie Karp Award)
  • Joel R. Ortberg, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Amir Sadeghi Pari, Austin Community College
  • Masey S. Peone, Central Washington University (Thurston Warn Award)
  • Kyle D. Peterson, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Garrett Rider, University of Missouri-Columbia (Mike Kunzman Award)
  • Bobby J. Robertson, Jr., McPherson College
  • Juan Rodriguez, Jr., Universal Technical Institute-Sacramento
  • Robert S. Rose, University of Northwestern Ohio (Joe Hrudka Award)
  • Mclane T. Rowley, University of Northwestern Ohio (K&N Engineering Award)
  • Paul J. Sakalas, Kent State University (Jeff Moses ARMO & MRN Award)
  • Andrew J. Smallman, Kettering University (ETTN Award)
  • Zachariah J. Sprenger, De Anza College (K&N Engineering Award)
  • Michael C. Sydow, Ferris State University
  • Sarah K. Wilkerson, Santa Barbara City College (Louis L. Borick Award)

2014 SEMA Loan Forgiveness Award Winners

  • David M. Chamberlain, COMP Performance Group/Lunati LLC (Dan Borré Award)
  • Laura M. Conrad, Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America Inc. (Trudy Thompson Award)
  • Michael DiCanzio, Turn 5 Inc.
  • Debra S. Dixon-Coen, Nissan North America (Leo Kagan Award)
  • Kyle J. Fichtner, DEEZEE Manufacturing (Joseph Amato Award)
  • William Filter, Dana Holdings/Spicer
  • Mitchell R. Kaup, BluePrint Engines (YEN Award)
  • Jennifer LaFever, Roush Yates Racing Engines (Top Student Award)
  • Adam C. Lovelady, Toyota Motor Sales USA
  • Joshua Mishler, Advanced Plating
  • Kelly A. Muldoon, Venchurs, Inc.
  • Philip F. Muscat, Pratt & Miller Engineering
  • Thomas Rousseve III, Falken Tire Corporation (JA Borré and WTC Award)
  • Jordan S. Sneathen, SEMO Classic Mustang Inc.
  • Kirstin E. Stone, Turbosmart USA (Wally Parks Award)
  • Heather Vance, Tenneco (Nat Danas Award)
  • Joshua C. Wang, JE Pistons
Thu, 09/11/2014 - 15:07

By Becca Butler

  scholarship
2013 SEMA Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness recipients.
  

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded $152,000 to 61 individuals this year. This includes 44 SEMA scholarships presented to current students, and 17 loan-forgiveness awards presented to employees of SEMA-member companies. In addition, one student was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Ohio Technical College for the 2014–2015 academic year.

Recipients of these scholarships will enter into the disciplines of automotive engineering and technology, automotive aftermarket, mechanical engineering, business management, electrical engineering, education, industrial engineering and design, automotive machinist and public affairs/administration.

More than $2 million has been awarded to more than 1,000 deserving students since the program’s establishment in 1984. The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund and the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program are dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket industry leaders and innovators by helping them get off to a successful start in their education and automotive aftermarket career.

The online application for next year’s awards will be accepted November 3, 2014, through April 1, 2015, at www.sema.org/scholarship. For questions or additional information, contact SEMA Education Manager Juliet Marshall by phone at 909-978-6655 or e-mail julietm@SEMA.org.

2014 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Award Winners

  • Tyler W. Bagby, Johnson County Community College
  • Damian T. Begler, School of Automotive Machinists
  • Brandon J. Belcher, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Brenden D. Bungert, University of Minnesota-Duluth
  • Alexis Art Cadiao, Mira Costa College (Steve Woomer Award)
  • Ryan A. Call, Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Trevor A. Chaney, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Dalyn M. Cirac, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Austin T. Ellis, Colorado School of Mines
  • Lee S. Engelhardt, Northwood University
  • Sara J. Erhart, Wyoming Technical Institute (SEMA Businesswomen’s Network Award)
  • Chester L. Fisher, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Justin L. Furman, Washtenaw Community College
  • Matthew Fusco, Northwood University
  • Hugo Hernandez, California State University-Northridge (Louis L. Borick Award)
  • Austin W. Hiebert, McPherson College (John Menzler & HRIA Award)
  • Nicholas V. Hines, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Leonard R. Howe, Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Eric A. Jiskra, Eastern Michigan University
  • Jeremy Johnson, Columbus State Community College (Melvin Burton Award)
  • Jeffery Kesterson, Oregon Institute of Technology
  • Thomas C. Klein, University of Northwestern Ohio (Don Turney Award)
  • Mark Lopresto, Cleveland Institute of Art (Harlan Felder Award)
  • Brent Maynard, University of Northwestern Ohio (MPMC Award)
  • Shaun Michael McCarthy, Stanford University
  • Jacob E. Mischel, North Dakota State University-Main Campus
  • Sara E. Mohon, Clemson University
  • Tyler K. Nelson, Brigham Young University-Idaho (PWA & TORA Award)
  • Harmon L. Newhouse, Brigham Young University-Idaho
  • Kaj Niegmann, Georgia Institute of Technology (Bernie Karp Award)
  • Joel R. Ortberg, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Amir Sadeghi Pari, Austin Community College
  • Masey S. Peone, Central Washington University (Thurston Warn Award)
  • Kyle D. Peterson, University of Northwestern Ohio
  • Garrett Rider, University of Missouri-Columbia (Mike Kunzman Award)
  • Bobby J. Robertson, Jr., McPherson College
  • Juan Rodriguez, Jr., Universal Technical Institute-Sacramento
  • Robert S. Rose, University of Northwestern Ohio (Joe Hrudka Award)
  • Mclane T. Rowley, University of Northwestern Ohio (K&N Engineering Award)
  • Paul J. Sakalas, Kent State University (Jeff Moses ARMO & MRN Award)
  • Andrew J. Smallman, Kettering University (ETTN Award)
  • Zachariah J. Sprenger, De Anza College (K&N Engineering Award)
  • Michael C. Sydow, Ferris State University
  • Sarah K. Wilkerson, Santa Barbara City College (Louis L. Borick Award)

2014 SEMA Loan Forgiveness Award Winners

  • David M. Chamberlain, COMP Performance Group/Lunati LLC (Dan Borré Award)
  • Laura M. Conrad, Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America Inc. (Trudy Thompson Award)
  • Michael DiCanzio, Turn 5 Inc.
  • Debra S. Dixon-Coen, Nissan North America (Leo Kagan Award)
  • Kyle J. Fichtner, DEEZEE Manufacturing (Joseph Amato Award)
  • William Filter, Dana Holdings/Spicer
  • Mitchell R. Kaup, BluePrint Engines (YEN Award)
  • Jennifer LaFever, Roush Yates Racing Engines (Top Student Award)
  • Adam C. Lovelady, Toyota Motor Sales USA
  • Joshua Mishler, Advanced Plating
  • Kelly A. Muldoon, Venchurs, Inc.
  • Philip F. Muscat, Pratt & Miller Engineering
  • Thomas Rousseve III, Falken Tire Corporation (JA Borré and WTC Award)
  • Jordan S. Sneathen, SEMO Classic Mustang Inc.
  • Kirstin E. Stone, Turbosmart USA (Wally Parks Award)
  • Heather Vance, Tenneco (Nat Danas Award)
  • Joshua C. Wang, JE Pistons
Thu, 09/11/2014 - 14:30

By SEMA Editors

  mecum
A one-of-a-kind ’14 Ford F-150 Raptor built by West Coast Customs sold for $250,000 at the Mecum Dallas Auction, September 6, 2014.
  

MobilityWorks Raises $250,000 for Veterans With Disabilities at Mecum Dallas Auction

MobilityWorks has announced the sale of a one-of-a-kind ’14 Ford F-150 Raptor at the Mecum Dallas Auction, September 6, 2014. The custom vehicle, built by West Coast Customs, sold for $250,000. All proceeds from this sale benefit veterans with disabilities through The MobilityWorks Foundation Cars for Troops initiative, and help deserving veterans afford wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other adaptive driving devices.

Cars for Troops is an effort of The MobilityWorks Foundation—a non-profit organization that offers transportation support and services to mobility-challenged individuals, their families and support organizations throughout the United States. The Cars for Troops program furthers the organization’s mission to make the world more accessible for veterans with disabilities.

“The VA only grants veterans a small amount of money to purchase wheelchair-accessible vehicles; that’s where the Cars for Troops program steps in,” said Staff Sergeant Jack Pierce, United States Marine Core Retired. “The money raised today will provide a number of veterans accessible vehicles, all in an effort to help them regain their freedom of mobility.”

A Marine Color Guard and distinguished group of disabled veterans escorted the vehicle into position on stage. Lively bidding among multiple bidders drove the sale price to $250,000. An additional $30,000 in cash donations were made from the auction floor. Sponsors included BraunAbility, West Coast Customs, Magnaflow, Bully Dog, LM Tire & Wheel and BDS Suspension.

Dometic Group Signs Purchase Agreement With Atwood Mobile Products

Dometic Group has signed an exclusive purchase agreement with Atwood Mobile Products, a global provider in designing, engineering and manufacturing appliances and hardware for the RV, on-/off-highway and marine industries for more than 50 years. Dometic reports that the acquisition will complement and further diversify its existing product offerings and strengthen the company’s global footprint. “The key rationale behind this important acquisition is that it will expand our product range offered to our North American and global customers,” said Roger Johansson, president and CEO of Dometic Group. “With Atwood as part of our Group, we will be able to offer high-quality water heaters, ventilation technology, windows and doors, innovative furnaces, and more—products which have not been included in our present North American offering.” Atwood’s primary markets are North America and Australia. The company has 775 employees and annual sales of approximately $200 million.

Tata Technologies Promotes Warren Harris to CEO

Tata Technologies has promoted Warren Harris to CEO and managing director. Harris, formerly the company's president and COO, has a 26-year tenure with the company. His responsibilities have ranged from engineer to technical management in multiple geographies around the world. As president and COO, a position he held since 2005, Harris was responsible for the company's day-to-day operations globally, including accelerating revenue growth and delivering value to customers. Harris succeeds the retiring Patrick McGoldrick, who spent more than 20 years leading the global engineering services and product development company. McGoldrick is retiring at age 65 per Tata group policy, but will continue providing counsel to the Board of Directors in retirement. Tata Technologies Board of Directors Chairman S Ramadorai said, "Warren's appointment ensures continuity of leadership as the company accelerates growth as a strategic, full-service product development partner for clients in the automotive, aerospace and industrial machinery markets."

ESAB Launches Redesigned Website

ESAB Cutting Systems launched a redesigned website featuring a more streamlined, modern design. The new site, www.esab-cutting.com, offers extensive information about ESAB’s comprehensive line of cutting products and processes, as well as expanded resources in an easy-to-navigate format. The website features in-depth content on ESAB cutting machines, process solutions, technologies, controls, software systems, and technology upgrades. The new Cutting Systems site is compatible with today’s browsers and is responsive to adjust to individual screen sizes for viewing on a tablet or mobile device.

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.

Thu, 09/11/2014 - 14:21

By Becca Butler

Now available, the Official 2014 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule enables journalists to obtain news and announcements during the Show, taking place November 4–7, in Las Vegas. This schedule will serve as a guideline for credentialed media, providing them with the dates, times, locations and details of all the exhibitors hosting press conferences.

The 2014 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule (as of September 10, 2014) is as follows:

Monday, November 3, 2014

1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
 SEMA Show Media Preview, Presented by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Media Center, N110
2:00 p.m.
 Texas Auto Media Association: 8th Annual AutoJudge Awards
 Media Center, N110

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.
 SEMA: New Products Breakfast, featuring the SEMA Award Press Conference Westgate Hotel Ballroom A
9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m. Hyundai Motor America: A Showcase of Hyundai’s SEMA Vehicles Booth 24387
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.
 KIA Motors America Inc.: Kia Motors America  Booth 10809
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m. MagnaFlow: Chip Foose Ford GT Booth 23543
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Toyota Motor Sales USA: Toyota Media Conference
 Booth 24700
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
 General Motors LLC: Chevrolet – Brand of Choice for Performance, Personalization and Capability
 Booth 23743
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.
 Ford Motor Company: Ford - Past, Present and Future
 Booth 22200
12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.
 Pirelli Tire: Pirelli Welcomes the Newest Member of the PZero Family Media Center, N110
1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.  MSD LLC: MSD and Racepak New Products
 Booth 23127
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.
 Royal Purple LLC: Ringbrothers ’66 Chevelle Unveiling
 Booth 23057
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.
 BASF Corp: BASF Unveils Foose and Friedlinghaus Restyled Vehicles Booth 21455
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.
 SCORE International: 2014 SCORE Baja 1000 Qualifying Overview and Driver Instructions Silver Lot 3
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.
 Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels: Introduction of the "Deegan 38" Wheel
 Booth 43035
3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
 Painless Performance Products: Hall of Fame Racer Bobby Allison Relaunches Hot Rod Truck
 Booth 23253
4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.
 Formula D: Formula DRIFT 2015 Pro Championship News Media Center, N110
4:26 p.m.–4:50 p.m.
 Chrysler LLC: MOPAR on the Move!
 Booth 43141

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.  Versaflex Inc.: Versaflex presents 100% Pure Polyurea Bedliner Material
 Booth #37129
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.  Skyjacker Suspensions: 40th Anniversary Bronco Build – Matchbox Reveal
 Booth #34133
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.  LINE-X Spray-on Truck Bedliners: U.S. Debut of Duck Commander-Inspired “Commander Series” Truck and Exclusive Look at All-New “Truck Gear by LINE-X” Accessories
 Booth #34121
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Escort Inc.: ESCORT Announces World's First Bluetooth ESCORT Live-Enabled Radar Detector
 Media Center, N110
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m. Scion: Scion Press Conference
 Booth #20313
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m. Tire Industry Association (TIA): Tire Industry Association Update
 Booth #40066
1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.  Spot LLC: All-New SPOT Trace and Waterproof DC Power Cable
 Media Center, N110
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.  HRE Performance Wheels: Ringbrothers Vehicle Unveil in HRE Booth, New Product Launch Booth #22359
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.  Goodguys Enterprises Inc.: SEMA GOLD AWARDS ceremony Booth #22375
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m. SCORE International: 2014 SCORE Baja 1000 Qualifying Results and Draw Silver Lot 3
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.  TI Automotive: News from TI Automotive and Walbro Fuel Pumps Booth #21529
3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
 CarCareONE By Synchrony Financial: Engage With Car Pros: Celebrating Car Pros Who Go the Extra Mile
 Booth #42091
4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.  Eibach Springs Inc.: Eibach “Wheels” Into the Off-Road and Classic Muscle Markets Booth #23531
4:30 p.m.–5:20 p.m. Dana Holding Corp. – Aftermarket Group: Launch of Ultimate Dana 60 Axle for Jeep/Wrangler JK (Cocktails) Booth #36181

Thursday, November 6, 2014

9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.
 Omni United USA Inc.: Omni United TBL Tire Brand Introduction
 Media Center, N110
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.  MagnaFlow: 2015 MagnaFlow Product Launch
 Booth #23543
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m. Snow Performance: The "New" Boost Cooler – All Plug-and-Play
 Booth #21209
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Trim Parts Inc.: Trim Parts Talks About the Future of the Restoration Market
 Booth #24275
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.  mPower Technologies Inc.: mPower Technologies: A Full Line of Emergency Portable Jumpstarters
 Media Center, N110
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.  Optima Sports Inc.: Cambertire: The Future of Tire Technology  Media Center, N110
12:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m.  Velocity: “Velocity Live”  Westgate Hotel & Casino Showroom – formerly LVH
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.  OPTIMA Batteries: 2014 OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational: Bigger Than Ever!  Booth #22755
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m. AkzoNobel Automotive & Aerospace Coatings: AkzoNobel Announcement Booth #25165
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.
 Redline Wheels: STR-Racing Press Release
 Booth #47079
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.  Bushwacker Inc.: Bushwacker Founder's Award Presentation Booth #30017
4:15 p.m.–5:05 p.m.  Bulldog LED Lighting: Press Conference (Cocktails)
 Booth #31211
Thu, 09/11/2014 - 14:21

By Becca Butler

Now available, the Official 2014 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule enables journalists to obtain news and announcements during the Show, taking place November 4–7, in Las Vegas. This schedule will serve as a guideline for credentialed media, providing them with the dates, times, locations and details of all the exhibitors hosting press conferences.

The 2014 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule (as of September 10, 2014) is as follows:

Monday, November 3, 2014

1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
 SEMA Show Media Preview, Presented by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Media Center, N110
2:00 p.m.
 Texas Auto Media Association: 8th Annual AutoJudge Awards
 Media Center, N110

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.
 SEMA: New Products Breakfast, featuring the SEMA Award Press Conference Westgate Hotel Ballroom A
9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m. Hyundai Motor America: A Showcase of Hyundai’s SEMA Vehicles Booth 24387
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.
 KIA Motors America Inc.: Kia Motors America  Booth 10809
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m. MagnaFlow: Chip Foose Ford GT Booth 23543
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Toyota Motor Sales USA: Toyota Media Conference
 Booth 24700
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
 General Motors LLC: Chevrolet – Brand of Choice for Performance, Personalization and Capability
 Booth 23743
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.
 Ford Motor Company: Ford - Past, Present and Future
 Booth 22200
12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.
 Pirelli Tire: Pirelli Welcomes the Newest Member of the PZero Family Media Center, N110
1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.  MSD LLC: MSD and Racepak New Products
 Booth 23127
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.
 Royal Purple LLC: Ringbrothers ’66 Chevelle Unveiling
 Booth 23057
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.
 BASF Corp: BASF Unveils Foose and Friedlinghaus Restyled Vehicles Booth 21455
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.
 SCORE International: 2014 SCORE Baja 1000 Qualifying Overview and Driver Instructions Silver Lot 3
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.
 Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels: Introduction of the "Deegan 38" Wheel
 Booth 43035
3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
 Painless Performance Products: Hall of Fame Racer Bobby Allison Relaunches Hot Rod Truck
 Booth 23253
4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.
 Formula D: Formula DRIFT 2015 Pro Championship News Media Center, N110
4:26 p.m.–4:50 p.m.
 Chrysler LLC: MOPAR on the Move!
 Booth 43141

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.  Versaflex Inc.: Versaflex presents 100% Pure Polyurea Bedliner Material
 Booth #37129
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.  Skyjacker Suspensions: 40th Anniversary Bronco Build – Matchbox Reveal
 Booth #34133
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.  LINE-X Spray-on Truck Bedliners: U.S. Debut of Duck Commander-Inspired “Commander Series” Truck and Exclusive Look at All-New “Truck Gear by LINE-X” Accessories
 Booth #34121
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Escort Inc.: ESCORT Announces World's First Bluetooth ESCORT Live-Enabled Radar Detector
 Media Center, N110
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m. Scion: Scion Press Conference
 Booth #20313
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m. Tire Industry Association (TIA): Tire Industry Association Update
 Booth #40066
1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.  Spot LLC: All-New SPOT Trace and Waterproof DC Power Cable
 Media Center, N110
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.  HRE Performance Wheels: Ringbrothers Vehicle Unveil in HRE Booth, New Product Launch Booth #22359
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.  Goodguys Enterprises Inc.: SEMA GOLD AWARDS ceremony Booth #22375
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m. SCORE International: 2014 SCORE Baja 1000 Qualifying Results and Draw Silver Lot 3
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.  TI Automotive: News from TI Automotive and Walbro Fuel Pumps Booth #21529
3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
 CarCareONE By Synchrony Financial: Engage With Car Pros: Celebrating Car Pros Who Go the Extra Mile
 Booth #42091
4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.  Eibach Springs Inc.: Eibach “Wheels” Into the Off-Road and Classic Muscle Markets Booth #23531
4:30 p.m.–5:20 p.m. Dana Holding Corp. – Aftermarket Group: Launch of Ultimate Dana 60 Axle for Jeep/Wrangler JK (Cocktails) Booth #36181

Thursday, November 6, 2014

9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.
 Omni United USA Inc.: Omni United TBL Tire Brand Introduction
 Media Center, N110
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.  MagnaFlow: 2015 MagnaFlow Product Launch
 Booth #23543
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m. Snow Performance: The "New" Boost Cooler – All Plug-and-Play
 Booth #21209
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Trim Parts Inc.: Trim Parts Talks About the Future of the Restoration Market
 Booth #24275
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.  mPower Technologies Inc.: mPower Technologies: A Full Line of Emergency Portable Jumpstarters
 Media Center, N110
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.  Optima Sports Inc.: Cambertire: The Future of Tire Technology  Media Center, N110
12:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m.  Velocity: “Velocity Live”  Westgate Hotel & Casino Showroom – formerly LVH
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.  OPTIMA Batteries: 2014 OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational: Bigger Than Ever!  Booth #22755
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m. AkzoNobel Automotive & Aerospace Coatings: AkzoNobel Announcement Booth #25165
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.
 Redline Wheels: STR-Racing Press Release
 Booth #47079
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.  Bushwacker Inc.: Bushwacker Founder's Award Presentation Booth #30017
4:15 p.m.–5:05 p.m.  Bulldog LED Lighting: Press Conference (Cocktails)
 Booth #31211
Thu, 09/11/2014 - 14:21

By Becca Butler

Now available, the Official 2014 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule enables journalists to obtain news and announcements during the Show, taking place November 4–7, in Las Vegas. This schedule will serve as a guideline for credentialed media, providing them with the dates, times, locations and details of all the exhibitors hosting press conferences.

The 2014 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule (as of September 10, 2014) is as follows:

Monday, November 3, 2014

1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
 SEMA Show Media Preview, Presented by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Media Center, N110
2:00 p.m.
 Texas Auto Media Association: 8th Annual AutoJudge Awards
 Media Center, N110

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.
 SEMA: New Products Breakfast, featuring the SEMA Award Press Conference Westgate Hotel Ballroom A
9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m. Hyundai Motor America: A Showcase of Hyundai’s SEMA Vehicles Booth 24387
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.
 KIA Motors America Inc.: Kia Motors America  Booth 10809
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m. MagnaFlow: Chip Foose Ford GT Booth 23543
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Toyota Motor Sales USA: Toyota Media Conference
 Booth 24700
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
 General Motors LLC: Chevrolet – Brand of Choice for Performance, Personalization and Capability
 Booth 23743
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.
 Ford Motor Company: Ford - Past, Present and Future
 Booth 22200
12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.
 Pirelli Tire: Pirelli Welcomes the Newest Member of the PZero Family Media Center, N110
1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.  MSD LLC: MSD and Racepak New Products
 Booth 23127
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.
 Royal Purple LLC: Ringbrothers ’66 Chevelle Unveiling
 Booth 23057
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.
 BASF Corp: BASF Unveils Foose and Friedlinghaus Restyled Vehicles Booth 21455
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.
 SCORE International: 2014 SCORE Baja 1000 Qualifying Overview and Driver Instructions Silver Lot 3
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.
 Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels: Introduction of the "Deegan 38" Wheel
 Booth 43035
3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
 Painless Performance Products: Hall of Fame Racer Bobby Allison Relaunches Hot Rod Truck
 Booth 23253
4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.
 Formula D: Formula DRIFT 2015 Pro Championship News Media Center, N110
4:26 p.m.–4:50 p.m.
 Chrysler LLC: MOPAR on the Move!
 Booth 43141

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.  Versaflex Inc.: Versaflex presents 100% Pure Polyurea Bedliner Material
 Booth #37129
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.  Skyjacker Suspensions: 40th Anniversary Bronco Build – Matchbox Reveal
 Booth #34133
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.  LINE-X Spray-on Truck Bedliners: U.S. Debut of Duck Commander-Inspired “Commander Series” Truck and Exclusive Look at All-New “Truck Gear by LINE-X” Accessories
 Booth #34121
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Escort Inc.: ESCORT Announces World's First Bluetooth ESCORT Live-Enabled Radar Detector
 Media Center, N110
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m. Scion: Scion Press Conference
 Booth #20313
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m. Tire Industry Association (TIA): Tire Industry Association Update
 Booth #40066
1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.  Spot LLC: All-New SPOT Trace and Waterproof DC Power Cable
 Media Center, N110
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.  HRE Performance Wheels: Ringbrothers Vehicle Unveil in HRE Booth, New Product Launch Booth #22359
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.  Goodguys Enterprises Inc.: SEMA GOLD AWARDS ceremony Booth #22375
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m. SCORE International: 2014 SCORE Baja 1000 Qualifying Results and Draw Silver Lot 3
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.  TI Automotive: News from TI Automotive and Walbro Fuel Pumps Booth #21529
3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
 CarCareONE By Synchrony Financial: Engage With Car Pros: Celebrating Car Pros Who Go the Extra Mile
 Booth #42091
4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.  Eibach Springs Inc.: Eibach “Wheels” Into the Off-Road and Classic Muscle Markets Booth #23531
4:30 p.m.–5:20 p.m. Dana Holding Corp. – Aftermarket Group: Launch of Ultimate Dana 60 Axle for Jeep/Wrangler JK (Cocktails) Booth #36181

Thursday, November 6, 2014

9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.
 Omni United USA Inc.: Omni United TBL Tire Brand Introduction
 Media Center, N110
9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.  MagnaFlow: 2015 MagnaFlow Product Launch
 Booth #23543
10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m. Snow Performance: The "New" Boost Cooler – All Plug-and-Play
 Booth #21209
10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.  Trim Parts Inc.: Trim Parts Talks About the Future of the Restoration Market
 Booth #24275
11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.  mPower Technologies Inc.: mPower Technologies: A Full Line of Emergency Portable Jumpstarters
 Media Center, N110
11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.  Optima Sports Inc.: Cambertire: The Future of Tire Technology  Media Center, N110
12:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m.  Velocity: “Velocity Live”  Westgate Hotel & Casino Showroom – formerly LVH
1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.  OPTIMA Batteries: 2014 OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational: Bigger Than Ever!  Booth #22755
2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m. AkzoNobel Automotive & Aerospace Coatings: AkzoNobel Announcement Booth #25165
2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.
 Redline Wheels: STR-Racing Press Release
 Booth #47079
3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.  Bushwacker Inc.: Bushwacker Founder's Award Presentation Booth #30017
4:15 p.m.–5:05 p.m.  Bulldog LED Lighting: Press Conference (Cocktails)
 Booth #31211
Thu, 09/11/2014 - 14:15

Compiled by SEMA Editors

NHRA News

  pep boys
  

PEP BOYS NAMED TITLE SPONSOR OF NHRA CAROLINA NATIONALS AT ZMAX DRAGWAY: zMAX Dragway and NHRA officials announced The Pep Boys—Manny, Moe and Jack—will be the title sponsor when the NHRA returns, September 12–14, at the Pep Boys NHRA Carolina Nationals—the first of the NHRA’s six-race playoffs, the NHRA Mello Yello Countdown to the Championship, which will be televised on ESPN2. The business partnership, constructed by Optimum Sports, is the first between Pep Boys, Charlotte Motor Speedway and NHRA.

kalitta

KALITTA LOOKS FOR MORE OF THE SAME: Doug Kalitta has been successful and consistent during the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series regular season. The next step for the Top Fuel points leader is replicating that effort during the upcoming NHRA Mello Yello Countdown to the Championship. Through 18 races, Kalitta has racked up nine final-round appearances, winning twice and only suffering two first-round exits. The reward is a 30-point lead heading into the Countdown to the Championship, which kicks off at zMAX Dragway.

With all eyes on Kalitta as he aims for his first career world-championship title in his 10,000-hp Mac Tools dragster, the laid-back Top Fuel star simply wants to keep a winning combination that has already been successful since the season started in February.

"I'm super proud of my guys, just all of them working together incredibly," Kalitta said. "We've got a good, consistent car, so we're really excited about taking this thing to Charlotte and starting the Countdown and hopefully repeating the performance that we've had pretty much all year. We've got something great, and everybody here has worked real hard at putting the people in the right places. It's a good effort, and we're pretty proud of what we've put together."

AMKUS RESCUE SYSTEMS NAMED OFFICIAL RESCUE TOOLS OF NHRA: AMKUS Rescue Systems has been named the Official Rescue Tools of the NHRA and Official Supplier of the NHRA through 2017. As the Official Rescue Tools of the NHRA, AMKUS logos will be prominently displayed on all NHRA Safety Safari presented by AAA trucks and trailers and team uniforms. The NHRA Safety Safari services the needs of race drivers and teams in the event of an emergency situation. In addition to prominent trackside signage, the company will participate in many other NHRA marketing opportunities, including official recognition in National Dragster—the NHRA’s magazine—and on NHRA.com. AMKUS also will receive feature status in all pre-race parades at NHRA national events.

He Said, She Said

  hagan
  

"That track is special to me, there's no doubt about that. It's close to home and I usually have a whole pile of family and friends out there supporting me. But it's a track that we've done well at and that's huge for our confidence. We had a weekend off and that was great for our team but I'm so ready to get back in this race car. I really felt like we had the car to beat in Indy and I'm just ready to race again. It's kind of like we have a fresh start with how the points are reset. We just need to start out strong in Charlotte and take it one race at a time. Each time we pull the car out, no matter where we are, it just feels stronger. We had a great test before Indy and learned a lot and really had a strong car all weekend. We have some good data from last fall at Charlotte and I know Dickie and the team will be ready to roll come Friday."

—2011 Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan on racing at zMAX Dragway this weekend. Hagan has two wins and one runner-up finish at the facility in his career. The track is also where he became the first Funny Car racer to break into the three-second mark with his run of 3.995 seconds in 2011. Hagan begins the NHRA Mello Yello Countdown to the Championship seventh in points.

Inside the Numbers

5: In the seven years of the NHRA Mello Yello Countdown to the Championship, five of the seven No. 1 seeds heading into the Countdown have gone on to win the world championship. Tony Schumacher in 2008, Larry Dixon in 2010, Del Worsham in 2011, Antron Brown in 2013 and Shawn Langdon in 2013 all took home titles as the No. 1 seeds. In Funny Car, only once has the top seed won the championship in the Countdown era, which was John Force in 2010.

Did You Know

  reunion
  

NEW ENGLAND HOT ROD REUNION ON TAP FOR EPPING: The coolest cars in the Northeast will be on display September 12–14, during the NHRA Motorsports Museum New England Hot Rod Reunion presented by AAA Insurance at New England Dragway. Three days of classic cars, nostalgic quarter-mile drag racing and honoring the legends of drag racing will take place at the scenic facility outside of Boston. The event comes to life September 12 at 8:00 a.m. as hundreds of vintage show cars pour into the facility for the start of the Show 'n' Shine, featuring a streaming parade of hot rods, classics and customs that will be on display during the event. Gates will open at 8:00 a.m. each day of the reunion.

View the complete 2014 Mello Yello Drag Racing Series schedule.