The Best of SEMA 2013
Wed, 01/01/2014 - 07:54

SEMA News—January 2014

EVENTS
By SEMA News Staff

The Best of SEMA 2013

Empowering an Industry

 More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. 
  

The 2013 SEMA Show left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures were being audited at press time, organizers reported that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed on site.

More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate that the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

There were 2,381 exhibiting companies on the Show floor representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want in order to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and powersports vehicles on and off the road.

More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.
     
More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.
On the pages below, we’ve selected a few highlights from the 2013 SEMA Show.
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Spotlight

The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.

 
 It was a record year for the New Products Showcase, an indication that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show investments. The New Product Showcase is one of the best ways to put products in front of the more than 60,000 buyers who attended the Show. There were more than 2,000 entries, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.
Showcase

It was a record year for the New Products Showcase, an indication that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show investments. The New Product Showcase is one of the best ways to put products in front of the more than 60,000 buyers who attended the Show. There were more than 2,000 entries, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

 
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Experience

SEMA is more than a Show; it’s an experience with more than a million square feet packed with memories waiting to happen. Attendees could lend a hand building custom vehicles with West Coast Customs, get a thrill ride in a high-performance car, dyno-test a Harley-Davidson, put artistic skills to use or share a moment with a celebrity.

 
 Nearly 3,700 individuals were approved for media credentials for the 2013 SEMA Show, giving exhibiting manufacturers unprecedented coverage in television, radio and Internet publications worldwide. A spike in social media hit as bloggers and web reporters raced each other to the Internet. Print publications will provide a long tail of feature articles that will continue to hit newsstands in the coming weeks and months.
Communicate

Nearly 3,700 individuals were approved for media credentials for the 2013 SEMA Show, giving exhibiting manufacturers unprecedented coverage in television, radio and Internet publications worldwide. A spike in social media hit as bloggers and web reporters raced each other to the Internet. Print publications will provide a long tail of feature articles that will continue to hit newsstands in the coming weeks and months.

 
 The SEMA Show creates an opportunity for the industry to come together and a reason to share assets and information. One example is the SEMA Award, which spotlights the most popular new vehicles as measured through the participation of SEMA exhibitors. As SEMA exhibitors work with OEMs to build cars for the Show, advanced technologies become accessible to their companies. OEMs gain aftermarket partners and get a marketing boost in the process.
Collaborate

The SEMA Show creates an opportunity for the industry to come together and a reason to share assets and information. One example is the SEMA Award, which spotlights the most popular new vehicles as measured through the participation of SEMA exhibitors. As SEMA exhibitors work with OEMs to build cars for the Show, advanced technologies become accessible to their companies. OEMs gain aftermarket partners and get a marketing boost in the process.

 
 The specialty products industry has a knack for distilling the essence of the legendary, the iconic, the unforgettable elements of the past, and letting them live again. In the process, we make them better than they ever were—stronger, cleaner and more reliable. The art of restoring and re-engineering the antique engine we see here is only one example of the ways SEMA companies demonstrate boundless ingenuity and originality. Why do they do it? Because it’s cool.
Regeneration

The specialty products industry has a knack for distilling the essence of the legendary, the iconic, the unforgettable elements of the past, and letting them live again. In the process, we make them better than they ever were—stronger, cleaner and more reliable. The art of restoring and re-engineering the antique engine we see here is only one example of the ways SEMA companies demonstrate boundless ingenuity and originality. Why do they do it? Because it’s cool.

 
 The annual SEMA Cruise—the only part of the SEMA Show that is open to the public—once again gave thousands of Las Vegas locals a chance to enjoy a parade of rolling art. Crowds filled the grandstands in front of the North Hall and lined the route from the Convention Center all the way to Paradise Road. The throng saw hundreds of custom cars from builders, such as Chip Foose and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The crowds continued to cheer even as the sun went down, celebrating for more than two hours as hundreds of cars, trucks, motorcycles, Jeeps and exotics took their final bows.
Take a Bow!

The annual SEMA Cruise—the only part of the SEMA Show that is open to the public—once again gave thousands of Las Vegas locals a chance to enjoy a parade of rolling art. Crowds filled the grandstands in front of the North Hall and lined the route from the Convention Center all the way to Paradise Road. The throng saw hundreds of custom cars from builders, such as Chip Foose and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The crowds continued to cheer even as the sun went down, celebrating for more than two hours as hundreds of cars, trucks, motorcycles, Jeeps and exotics took their final bows.

 
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Celebrate

The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.

The Best of SEMA 2013
Wed, 01/01/2014 - 07:54

SEMA News—January 2014

EVENTS
By SEMA News Staff

The Best of SEMA 2013

Empowering an Industry

 More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. 
  

The 2013 SEMA Show left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures were being audited at press time, organizers reported that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed on site.

More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate that the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

There were 2,381 exhibiting companies on the Show floor representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want in order to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and powersports vehicles on and off the road.

More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.
     
More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.
On the pages below, we’ve selected a few highlights from the 2013 SEMA Show.
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Spotlight

The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.

 
 It was a record year for the New Products Showcase, an indication that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show investments. The New Product Showcase is one of the best ways to put products in front of the more than 60,000 buyers who attended the Show. There were more than 2,000 entries, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.
Showcase

It was a record year for the New Products Showcase, an indication that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show investments. The New Product Showcase is one of the best ways to put products in front of the more than 60,000 buyers who attended the Show. There were more than 2,000 entries, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

 
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Experience

SEMA is more than a Show; it’s an experience with more than a million square feet packed with memories waiting to happen. Attendees could lend a hand building custom vehicles with West Coast Customs, get a thrill ride in a high-performance car, dyno-test a Harley-Davidson, put artistic skills to use or share a moment with a celebrity.

 
 Nearly 3,700 individuals were approved for media credentials for the 2013 SEMA Show, giving exhibiting manufacturers unprecedented coverage in television, radio and Internet publications worldwide. A spike in social media hit as bloggers and web reporters raced each other to the Internet. Print publications will provide a long tail of feature articles that will continue to hit newsstands in the coming weeks and months.
Communicate

Nearly 3,700 individuals were approved for media credentials for the 2013 SEMA Show, giving exhibiting manufacturers unprecedented coverage in television, radio and Internet publications worldwide. A spike in social media hit as bloggers and web reporters raced each other to the Internet. Print publications will provide a long tail of feature articles that will continue to hit newsstands in the coming weeks and months.

 
 The SEMA Show creates an opportunity for the industry to come together and a reason to share assets and information. One example is the SEMA Award, which spotlights the most popular new vehicles as measured through the participation of SEMA exhibitors. As SEMA exhibitors work with OEMs to build cars for the Show, advanced technologies become accessible to their companies. OEMs gain aftermarket partners and get a marketing boost in the process.
Collaborate

The SEMA Show creates an opportunity for the industry to come together and a reason to share assets and information. One example is the SEMA Award, which spotlights the most popular new vehicles as measured through the participation of SEMA exhibitors. As SEMA exhibitors work with OEMs to build cars for the Show, advanced technologies become accessible to their companies. OEMs gain aftermarket partners and get a marketing boost in the process.

 
 The specialty products industry has a knack for distilling the essence of the legendary, the iconic, the unforgettable elements of the past, and letting them live again. In the process, we make them better than they ever were—stronger, cleaner and more reliable. The art of restoring and re-engineering the antique engine we see here is only one example of the ways SEMA companies demonstrate boundless ingenuity and originality. Why do they do it? Because it’s cool.
Regeneration

The specialty products industry has a knack for distilling the essence of the legendary, the iconic, the unforgettable elements of the past, and letting them live again. In the process, we make them better than they ever were—stronger, cleaner and more reliable. The art of restoring and re-engineering the antique engine we see here is only one example of the ways SEMA companies demonstrate boundless ingenuity and originality. Why do they do it? Because it’s cool.

 
 The annual SEMA Cruise—the only part of the SEMA Show that is open to the public—once again gave thousands of Las Vegas locals a chance to enjoy a parade of rolling art. Crowds filled the grandstands in front of the North Hall and lined the route from the Convention Center all the way to Paradise Road. The throng saw hundreds of custom cars from builders, such as Chip Foose and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The crowds continued to cheer even as the sun went down, celebrating for more than two hours as hundreds of cars, trucks, motorcycles, Jeeps and exotics took their final bows.
Take a Bow!

The annual SEMA Cruise—the only part of the SEMA Show that is open to the public—once again gave thousands of Las Vegas locals a chance to enjoy a parade of rolling art. Crowds filled the grandstands in front of the North Hall and lined the route from the Convention Center all the way to Paradise Road. The throng saw hundreds of custom cars from builders, such as Chip Foose and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The crowds continued to cheer even as the sun went down, celebrating for more than two hours as hundreds of cars, trucks, motorcycles, Jeeps and exotics took their final bows.

 
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Celebrate

The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.

The Best of SEMA 2013
Wed, 01/01/2014 - 07:54

SEMA News—January 2014

EVENTS
By SEMA News Staff

The Best of SEMA 2013

Empowering an Industry

 More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. 
  

The 2013 SEMA Show left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures were being audited at press time, organizers reported that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed on site.

More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate that the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

There were 2,381 exhibiting companies on the Show floor representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want in order to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and powersports vehicles on and off the road.

More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.
     
More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth. More than 60,000 of those badges went to buyers, who came from all over the world. The numbers represented a 7% increase over those from the previous year and were the highest in SEMA Show history. It was the third year in a row that the Show had seen significant growth.
On the pages below, we’ve selected a few highlights from the 2013 SEMA Show.
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Spotlight

The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.

 
 It was a record year for the New Products Showcase, an indication that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show investments. The New Product Showcase is one of the best ways to put products in front of the more than 60,000 buyers who attended the Show. There were more than 2,000 entries, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.
Showcase

It was a record year for the New Products Showcase, an indication that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show investments. The New Product Showcase is one of the best ways to put products in front of the more than 60,000 buyers who attended the Show. There were more than 2,000 entries, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

 
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Experience

SEMA is more than a Show; it’s an experience with more than a million square feet packed with memories waiting to happen. Attendees could lend a hand building custom vehicles with West Coast Customs, get a thrill ride in a high-performance car, dyno-test a Harley-Davidson, put artistic skills to use or share a moment with a celebrity.

 
 Nearly 3,700 individuals were approved for media credentials for the 2013 SEMA Show, giving exhibiting manufacturers unprecedented coverage in television, radio and Internet publications worldwide. A spike in social media hit as bloggers and web reporters raced each other to the Internet. Print publications will provide a long tail of feature articles that will continue to hit newsstands in the coming weeks and months.
Communicate

Nearly 3,700 individuals were approved for media credentials for the 2013 SEMA Show, giving exhibiting manufacturers unprecedented coverage in television, radio and Internet publications worldwide. A spike in social media hit as bloggers and web reporters raced each other to the Internet. Print publications will provide a long tail of feature articles that will continue to hit newsstands in the coming weeks and months.

 
 The SEMA Show creates an opportunity for the industry to come together and a reason to share assets and information. One example is the SEMA Award, which spotlights the most popular new vehicles as measured through the participation of SEMA exhibitors. As SEMA exhibitors work with OEMs to build cars for the Show, advanced technologies become accessible to their companies. OEMs gain aftermarket partners and get a marketing boost in the process.
Collaborate

The SEMA Show creates an opportunity for the industry to come together and a reason to share assets and information. One example is the SEMA Award, which spotlights the most popular new vehicles as measured through the participation of SEMA exhibitors. As SEMA exhibitors work with OEMs to build cars for the Show, advanced technologies become accessible to their companies. OEMs gain aftermarket partners and get a marketing boost in the process.

 
 The specialty products industry has a knack for distilling the essence of the legendary, the iconic, the unforgettable elements of the past, and letting them live again. In the process, we make them better than they ever were—stronger, cleaner and more reliable. The art of restoring and re-engineering the antique engine we see here is only one example of the ways SEMA companies demonstrate boundless ingenuity and originality. Why do they do it? Because it’s cool.
Regeneration

The specialty products industry has a knack for distilling the essence of the legendary, the iconic, the unforgettable elements of the past, and letting them live again. In the process, we make them better than they ever were—stronger, cleaner and more reliable. The art of restoring and re-engineering the antique engine we see here is only one example of the ways SEMA companies demonstrate boundless ingenuity and originality. Why do they do it? Because it’s cool.

 
 The annual SEMA Cruise—the only part of the SEMA Show that is open to the public—once again gave thousands of Las Vegas locals a chance to enjoy a parade of rolling art. Crowds filled the grandstands in front of the North Hall and lined the route from the Convention Center all the way to Paradise Road. The throng saw hundreds of custom cars from builders, such as Chip Foose and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The crowds continued to cheer even as the sun went down, celebrating for more than two hours as hundreds of cars, trucks, motorcycles, Jeeps and exotics took their final bows.
Take a Bow!

The annual SEMA Cruise—the only part of the SEMA Show that is open to the public—once again gave thousands of Las Vegas locals a chance to enjoy a parade of rolling art. Crowds filled the grandstands in front of the North Hall and lined the route from the Convention Center all the way to Paradise Road. The throng saw hundreds of custom cars from builders, such as Chip Foose and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The crowds continued to cheer even as the sun went down, celebrating for more than two hours as hundreds of cars, trucks, motorcycles, Jeeps and exotics took their final bows.

 
 The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.
Celebrate

The SEMA Show has become a world stage that the biggest manufacturers use to build their brands and exploit media fascination. Honda was among the major manufacturers that took the opportunity to stage a world debut for a ’14 model, highlighting new performance equipment and sporty attributes.

Movers & Shakers: Rosen Completes Acquisition of Echomaster's Assets; MSD Names Loeza Product Marketing Coordinator
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 19:54

Rosen Completes Acquisition of Echomaster's Assets
Rosen Electronics LP has completed the acquisition of the assets of Echomaster LLC, effective December 13. “This is an exciting time for our company as Echomaster has a 15-plus year track record of producing quality safety-related products, such as parking sensors, reverse cameras, OE display radio camera interfaces, smart mirrors and more. Echomaster is an approved OEM supplier to Ford Motor Co. and those same quality assurance standards will be retained by Rosen for the aftermarket and fleet channels as well,” stated Steve Weimar, Rosen vice president of sales & marketing.

Rosen’s current sales organization will manage the expediter/installer, WD and retail sales channels for the Echomaster brand. For the fleet equipment and OEM channels, Rosen announced that Echomaster’s Director of Operations & Sales Jerry Redding will join the Rosen team as the new director of OEM & fleet markets. The Echomaster brand will join Rosen’s line of Piranha in-dash factory-look multimedia products, FIT Nav/camera interfaces, headrest replacement entertainment systems, seat-back entertainment systems and X/Z-Series ceiling-mount entertainment systems.

Alex Loeza, MSD
MSD has named longtime company employee Alexandra (Alex) Loeza product marketing coordinator.
  

MSD Names Alex Loeza as Product Marketing Coordinator
MSD has named longtime company employee Alexandra (Alex) Loeza product marketing coordinator. Loeza, who started in the MSD's accounting department more than 10 years ago and is also a member of the SEMA Young Executives Network, will manage and support MSD's recently expanded Dynaforce alternator and starter product lines. She will also assist with the management of MSD's event-marketing initiative to use marketing trucks that attend key racing- and street-car enthusiast events.

Stage 8 Updates, Streamlines Order Management Capabilities
Stage 8 recently announced that the company has joined forces with Shopatron, a leading provider of eCommerce order management. “We have been looking for a seamless way to expand both online and retail sales,” commented Robert Ahern, manager of Stage 8. “With Shopatron, we support our retailers while delivering a superior purchasing experience to online shoppers.” Ahern continued, “Stage 8 customers will still access the company website where the sale will be made. That order is then assigned to the closest stocking retailer, and the customer receives their package by post or may choose to pick it up in-store.”

 Erik Arfalk
Erik Arfalk will implement marketing campaigns and develop customer communication strategies as the new VP of communications and branding for Atlas Copco Compressors.
  

Atlas Copco Compressors Appoints Erik Arfalk VP of Communications and Branding
Atlas Copco Compressors has appointed Erik Arfalk vice president of communications and branding. Arfalk joins Atlas Copco Compressors from General Electric Healthcare, Life Sciences where he held the position of director, product management and marketing. In his new position, Arfalk will be responsible for implementing marketing campaigns and developing customer communication strategies across multiple industry sectors. His responsibilities include marketing communications, customer-loyalty programs, marketing intelligence, industrial-product marketing and leading the teams responsible for customer marketing.

Pep Boys Sponsors “West Coast Customs” TV Show
Pep Boys announced its sponsorship of the weekly “West Coast Customs” (WCC) TV show on FOX Sports Sunday nights. As part of the sponsorship, a Pep Boys Speed Shop has been installed inside WCC and will be used to source high-performance parts for custom builds featured on the show. In addition, Pep Boys’ Vice President of Merchandising Chuck Rigby announced that a new line of WCC -branded products will be in Pep Boys stores nationwide this holiday season.  “Items will include interior and exterior accessories and audio components for those who want to personalize their vehicles in WCC style,” stated Rigby.

West Coast Customs has established an unrivaled brand in the automotive broadcast world, and the 2014 season promises unique builds fans have come to love. “The first episode will air in early 2014 and showcase a completely custom ride, which will be part of the new Warner Bros. ‘Mad Max’ inspired movie scheduled to come out next year,” stated Ryan Friedlinghaus, CEO and founder of WCC.

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. 

Annual Pinewood Builder's Challenge—Crafting Mini Rolling Art for Charity
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 19:05

SEMA News—December 2013

EVENTS
By Chad Simon

Constructing Automotive Works of Art

Builder’s Challenge Features Increasingly Complex Pinewood Hot Rods Designed for Charity

 G3 Rods

G3 Rods

  
Ten of the nation’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders created miniature pinewood hot rods that lit up the track this past summer at the fourth-annual Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Pinewood Builder’s Challenge during SEMA’s Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, which was held July 26 at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California. Just before the banquet started, the hot rods raced against each other to benefit two children’s charities. The cars were autographed by the builders and displayed in HRIA booth at the 2013 SEMA Show.

An incredible class of hot-rod builders participated in the HRIA Builder’s Challenge, but Derek White of Street Vizions successfully defended his title in the end, winning the race series for the fourth consecutive year. His car this year was a John Menzler tribute—a “Menzler Racing” hi-boy-style coupe. Keith Kaucher of Kaucher Kustoms was the runner-up, followed by the Mickey Thompson Challenger I replica built by Doug Dwyer of Essential Marketing Services.

“We like doing the SEMA Pinewood Builder’s Challenge because it benefits SEMA Cares charities, and it’s also fun to compete against everybody,” said Brigit White of Street Vizions. “This car was special because it was made for my friend John Menzler. If it weren’t for him, we would not be competing.”

Kindig It Design
Kindig It Design

 

Johnson Hot Rods
Johnson Hot Rods

   

Dwyer added, “The Pinewood Drag Races just happened to be compatible with my interest in model building. The first car I built was the Chrisman Coupe, because Art Chrisman is from my home town of Compton, and I have been friends with him for many years. Art gave me some of the actual paint from the real car. He signed it for the auction, which raised several hundred dollars. This year’s car was Mickey Thompson’s Challenger I, and his son Danny Thompson signed it for the auction.

 

Doug Poad
Doug Poad

  
 

Spanky’s Hot Rods & Customs
Spanky’s Hot Rods & Customs

  
 

Kaucher Kustoms
Kaucher Kustoms

Participating builders included industry luminaries B Rod or Custom, Essential Marketing Services, G3 Rods, Johnson Hot Rods, Kaucher Kustoms, Kindig It Design, Performance Associates, Doug Poad, Spanky’s Hot Rods and Street Vizions.

During the HRIA reception at the SEMA Show, the Best Engineered (Johnson Hot Rods), Best in Show (B Rod or Custom) and the race winner (Street Vizions) were auctioned live, and a silent auction was slated for the rest of the Pinewood Builder’s cars. Proceeds will benefit the SEMA Cares charities.

“Many of us can admire the amazing creations from some of the industry’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders from afar,” said Eric Saltrick of Steele Rubber Products and one of the event’s founders.

“But the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge auction allows all of us to own a one-of-a-kind custom car from these builders. They are the ones we see on television and in magazines winning national awards and recognition for their large-scale works of automotive art.”

In addition to supporting the charities, the builders showcase their creations throughout the year to children interested in cars, providing an opportunity to expose the hot-rod hobby and custom-car industry to the next generation of car builders.

“The cars in the Builder’s Race are true, one-of-a-kind pieces of art that reflect the passion, creativity and ingenuity of the builders,” said Dave Williams of Rampage Products, who served as the race organizer and trackside umpire.

“These qualities resonate with people when they see the cars.”

The race came to fruition at the 2009 SEMA Show when former HRIA Chairman Rick Love of Vintage Air and HRIA members Saltrick and Menzler (from Comp Cams) decided to walk the Show floor and ask every well-known hot-rod builder to participate.

The idea behind the first Challenge was simply to see what top-notch hot-rod builders could do with a block of wood, and they have pushed the boundaries of the rules every year.

The rules are simple and subject to interpretation. Each pinewood builder is given four months to complete a car, with no design limitations imposed except that the car has to fit the track’s dimensions and no propulsion systems are allowed.

Performance Associates
Performance Associates

 

B Rod or Custom
Street Vizions “Menzler Racing”

   
   
 

Essential Marketing Services’ Mickey Thompson Challenger I
Essential Marketing Services’ Mickey Thompson Challenger I

  
“Basically, each builder must use at least one piece of the pinewood block we provide, no matter how small a piece,” said Saltrick. “Over the years, builders have not only used the wood for their cars but also aluminum, fiberglass and chrome. They have fabricated custom wheels, suspensions and chassis parts in miniature formats. All of our participating builders have egos, and the Pinewood Challenge allows them to compete for bragging rights.”
Annual Pinewood Builder's Challenge—Crafting Mini Rolling Art for Charity
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 19:05

SEMA News—December 2013

EVENTS
By Chad Simon

Constructing Automotive Works of Art

Builder’s Challenge Features Increasingly Complex Pinewood Hot Rods Designed for Charity

 G3 Rods

G3 Rods

  
Ten of the nation’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders created miniature pinewood hot rods that lit up the track this past summer at the fourth-annual Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Pinewood Builder’s Challenge during SEMA’s Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, which was held July 26 at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California. Just before the banquet started, the hot rods raced against each other to benefit two children’s charities. The cars were autographed by the builders and displayed in HRIA booth at the 2013 SEMA Show.

An incredible class of hot-rod builders participated in the HRIA Builder’s Challenge, but Derek White of Street Vizions successfully defended his title in the end, winning the race series for the fourth consecutive year. His car this year was a John Menzler tribute—a “Menzler Racing” hi-boy-style coupe. Keith Kaucher of Kaucher Kustoms was the runner-up, followed by the Mickey Thompson Challenger I replica built by Doug Dwyer of Essential Marketing Services.

“We like doing the SEMA Pinewood Builder’s Challenge because it benefits SEMA Cares charities, and it’s also fun to compete against everybody,” said Brigit White of Street Vizions. “This car was special because it was made for my friend John Menzler. If it weren’t for him, we would not be competing.”

Kindig It Design
Kindig It Design

 

Johnson Hot Rods
Johnson Hot Rods

   

Dwyer added, “The Pinewood Drag Races just happened to be compatible with my interest in model building. The first car I built was the Chrisman Coupe, because Art Chrisman is from my home town of Compton, and I have been friends with him for many years. Art gave me some of the actual paint from the real car. He signed it for the auction, which raised several hundred dollars. This year’s car was Mickey Thompson’s Challenger I, and his son Danny Thompson signed it for the auction.

 

Doug Poad
Doug Poad

  
 

Spanky’s Hot Rods & Customs
Spanky’s Hot Rods & Customs

  
 

Kaucher Kustoms
Kaucher Kustoms

Participating builders included industry luminaries B Rod or Custom, Essential Marketing Services, G3 Rods, Johnson Hot Rods, Kaucher Kustoms, Kindig It Design, Performance Associates, Doug Poad, Spanky’s Hot Rods and Street Vizions.

During the HRIA reception at the SEMA Show, the Best Engineered (Johnson Hot Rods), Best in Show (B Rod or Custom) and the race winner (Street Vizions) were auctioned live, and a silent auction was slated for the rest of the Pinewood Builder’s cars. Proceeds will benefit the SEMA Cares charities.

“Many of us can admire the amazing creations from some of the industry’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders from afar,” said Eric Saltrick of Steele Rubber Products and one of the event’s founders.

“But the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge auction allows all of us to own a one-of-a-kind custom car from these builders. They are the ones we see on television and in magazines winning national awards and recognition for their large-scale works of automotive art.”

In addition to supporting the charities, the builders showcase their creations throughout the year to children interested in cars, providing an opportunity to expose the hot-rod hobby and custom-car industry to the next generation of car builders.

“The cars in the Builder’s Race are true, one-of-a-kind pieces of art that reflect the passion, creativity and ingenuity of the builders,” said Dave Williams of Rampage Products, who served as the race organizer and trackside umpire.

“These qualities resonate with people when they see the cars.”

The race came to fruition at the 2009 SEMA Show when former HRIA Chairman Rick Love of Vintage Air and HRIA members Saltrick and Menzler (from Comp Cams) decided to walk the Show floor and ask every well-known hot-rod builder to participate.

The idea behind the first Challenge was simply to see what top-notch hot-rod builders could do with a block of wood, and they have pushed the boundaries of the rules every year.

The rules are simple and subject to interpretation. Each pinewood builder is given four months to complete a car, with no design limitations imposed except that the car has to fit the track’s dimensions and no propulsion systems are allowed.

Performance Associates
Performance Associates

 

B Rod or Custom
Street Vizions “Menzler Racing”

   
   
 

Essential Marketing Services’ Mickey Thompson Challenger I
Essential Marketing Services’ Mickey Thompson Challenger I

  
“Basically, each builder must use at least one piece of the pinewood block we provide, no matter how small a piece,” said Saltrick. “Over the years, builders have not only used the wood for their cars but also aluminum, fiberglass and chrome. They have fabricated custom wheels, suspensions and chassis parts in miniature formats. All of our participating builders have egos, and the Pinewood Challenge allows them to compete for bragging rights.”
Wisconsin Bill to Ease Restrictions on Collector Cars and Historic Military Vehicles Signed Into Law
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 18:50

Legislation to allow minor modifications to collector vehicles, exempt former military vehicles, historic military vehicles, and collector vehicles from importer certification label requirements, and expand rights for historic military vehicle owners was signed into law by Governor Scott Walker. The new law allows modifications to vehicles registered as collector vehicles, as long as the bodies of these vehicles are not modified. 

Currently, upgrades like safety glass, radial tires, a radio or hubcaps are reasons to deny registration. The law also exempts collector vehicles and all former military vehicles from the requirement that they meet Federal certification label requirements. Historic military vehicles can now be operated for occasional personal use. Use of these vehicles had been limited to parades, car shows and transporting them to and from necessary testing, maintenance, and storage. 

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Wisconsin Bill to Ease Restrictions on Collector Cars and Historic Military Vehicles Signed Into Law
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 18:50

Legislation to allow minor modifications to collector vehicles, exempt former military vehicles, historic military vehicles, and collector vehicles from importer certification label requirements, and expand rights for historic military vehicle owners was signed into law by Governor Scott Walker. The new law allows modifications to vehicles registered as collector vehicles, as long as the bodies of these vehicles are not modified. 

Currently, upgrades like safety glass, radial tires, a radio or hubcaps are reasons to deny registration. The law also exempts collector vehicles and all former military vehicles from the requirement that they meet Federal certification label requirements. Historic military vehicles can now be operated for occasional personal use. Use of these vehicles had been limited to parades, car shows and transporting them to and from necessary testing, maintenance, and storage. 

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Deadline Next Week for Kia Soul Measuring Session
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 17:14
The deadline to register for the all-new ’14 Kia Soul Measuring Session is next Friday, January 3. Registration and more information are available online. The Measuring Session takes place January 8, at Kia Motors North America, in Irvine, California.
Deadline Next Week for Kia Soul Measuring Session
Fri, 12/27/2013 - 17:14
The deadline to register for the all-new ’14 Kia Soul Measuring Session is next Friday, January 3. Registration and more information are available online. The Measuring Session takes place January 8, at Kia Motors North America, in Irvine, California.