Visit YEN's website

	Dan Kahn

Introducing YEN Chair Dan Kahn

By Amanda Gubbins

Dan Kahn became the chairman of the Young Executives Network (YEN) July 1. “I’ve been a member for probably a decade but became actively involved about three years ago,” he says.

Kahn has been involved in the automotive aftermarket his entire adult life, working his way through high school at a speed shop before discovering a passion for communications and journalism, which he studied in college. Kahn found ways to incorporate these skills in the automotive industry, writing and editing automotive publications throughout college and landing a job at Petersen Publishing immediately out of school. When the Internet took off, Kahn made the transition to digital media and eventually moved into public relations and marketing in the automotive industry.

Five years ago, Kahn started Kahn Media—a firm that helps brands in the aftermarket communicate directly with consumers by assisting with marketing, public relations and social media strategy. “It’s a rewarding challenge—we get to work with legendary brands and promote incredible products on the traditional side of the industry while helping them find the cutting edge of communication,” he says.

Kahn first started to plug into YEN when he was featured in a “Member of the Month” article. After meeting some of the network leadership and seeing the kinds of things they were doing, Kahn was appointed to an open seat on the Select Committee. “I got involved on the communication side and really had a good time. Being new to the Select Committee, I was fortunate to have worked with Lee McGuire (immediate past chair). She really understands the ins and outs of the network and showed me how to get the most out of my volunteer experience,” Kahn says.

From Kahn’s perspective, YEN is important because it helps bridge the gap between generations to keep the industry strong. For some, there is uncertainty about the next generation of employees and leaders and a fear about where the industry is headed. YEN offers an environment where the next generation of industry leaders can learn from a diverse group of people.

“My goal for the next two years is to help the industry see young executives as the next wave of business leaders. We will continue to provide great programs and a platform for young executives,” says Kahn.

A couple of YEN programs that highlight this goal are Launch Pad—an opportunity for individuals to pitch their business ideas and gain feedback from experienced entrepreneurs, and the Member Activation Program—a chance to explore new possibilities by partnering with other councils and spending time with their Select Committees.

Learn more about the programs YEN offers, or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

	YEN's first-ever “SEMA Launch Pad” contest offers executive-level innovators under the age of 40 an industry platform to showcase their business plan for marketing a new automotive product or service.

YEN Launches the Next Young Automotive Entrepreneur

The SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) celebrates young entrepreneurs by announcing the first-ever “SEMA Launch Pad” contest. This new competition offers executive-level innovators under the age of 40 an industry platform to showcase their business plan for marketing a new automotive product or service.

Through this competition, five finalists will have their business plans peer-reviewed by industry leaders at the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The grand-prize winner will receive a package of advertising tools to help take their business to the next level. The participant’s company will win an array of prizes, including a 10x10-ft. booth at the 2014 SEMA Show, an ad in Hot Rod or 4 Wheel & Off Road magazine, a Family Events sponsorship package and more. Even if you don’t win the grand prize, you and your company may be promoted to thousands of industry professionals curious to learn more about your innovative product or service.

Details:

• The company’s leading executive (company president, CEO or owner) is the participant on behalf of the company. As a YEN member (under age 40), you, the executive, will complete the online application and submit a three-minute video detailing your company’s innovative product or service.

• Your brief video will be reviewed by the YEN Task Force, from which the top 10 candidates will be selected.

• The 10 candidates will be reduced to five, according to which ones receive the most “like” votes via a YEN Facebook page campaign this summer.

• The five candidates will be invited to participate in a live peer review presentation at the 2013 SEMA Show.

• The SEMA Show judges will select the winning YEN executive.

Key deadlines:

• Three-minute video and application due by June 11, 2013.

• Top 10 candidates’ submissions posted on the YEN Facebook page. Facebook voting campaign runs from July 29, 2013, to September 5, 2013. The five candidates with the most “like” votes proceed to the contest finals.

• Top five candidates make a live, 10-minute presentation to the panel of judges at the SEMA Show.

Basic Requirements:

• Participants must be a YEN member (under 40 years old on November 8, 2013) and a legal resident of the United States. Not a YEN member? Become one now.

• YEN member’s company must be a SEMA member. Not a SEMA member? Become one now.

• YEN member’s company must qualify to exhibit at the 2013 SEMA Show (but does not have to exhibit).

• The automotive product or service competing in the SEMA Launch Pad contest must be functioning and currently for sale. No concepts accepted.

• The top five YEN participants will travel to the SEMA Show at their own expense to compete in the live event. The YEN participant must make the presentation before the SEMA Show judges (no substitutes).

• All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize-winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

• By participating in the contest, the YEN participant certifies that he/she has ownership rights to the trademarks, service marks, copyrights, patents and any other intellectual property rights or proprietary information of the company and product/service being marketed, or authorization from the owner of such rights.

It’s time to launch the next Young Automotive Entrepreneur. For more information and to fill out the application, visit www.sema.org/launch-pad. If you have questions, please contact Bryan Harrison, SEMA's senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!

Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit ARMO's website.

Restoration industry veterans Shawn Green, Roger Neihaus, Dave Mihalko Sr. and Steve Ames share some good times at the 2013 ARMO Industry Mixer at Spring Carlisle. The Hot Products tent provided the perfect atmosphere for colleagues to catch up after the winter months.

ARMO Hot Products Showcase Posted Online

Photos from the 2013 ARMO Hot Products Showcase have been posted on the ARMO website. Thanks again to all the ARMO companies that participated in this year’s event.

The ARMO Hot Products Showcase (formerly the “New” Products Showcase) took place April 25–27, 2013, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The annual event puts ARMO-member restoration products in front of 100,000+ restoration enthusiasts during the Spring Carlisle event.

Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit ETTN's website

	This carburetor is an example of corrosion caused by E10 fuel. Photo credit: Tom Shaw.
	Annual ethanol targets are scheduled to continually rise until we reach 36 billion gallons in 2022.

By Sean Crawford – JE Pistons

If you haven’t noticed by now, most gasoline sold in the United States now contains ethanol. In fact, more than 90% of all gasoline contains up to 10% ethanol. The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that ethanol usage in fuel increase from nine billion gallons per year in 2008 to just less than 14 billion gallons in 2013. The mandate is part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which was expanded by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The principle behind the laws was well-intentioned but potentially misplaced—increasing our usage of renewable energy while reducing our dependence on foreign oil.

Year after year, the annual ethanol targets are scheduled to continually rise until we reach 36 billion gallons in 2022. Most of our consumption today is accomplished through the current E10 fuel (90% gasoline, 10% ethanol) commonly found at the pump. Alternatives, such as E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) for “flex-fuel” vehicles exist as well, but are harder to find in most areas and therefore do not make up the majority of the ethanol usage. It is important to note that gas pump labels for E10 and below are subject to state law. Since a number of states, such as California, don’t require a label, motorists may not be aware that they are putting ethanol in their tank.

Ethanol, as a fuel, has its share of advantages. For example, it can be produced from domestically grown corn or other biofuels that is raised by our own farmers. It can also carry a higher octane rating, assuming it has not been contaminated by absorbing water. For the modern performance enthusiast, E85 has become a popular low-budget race fuel for everything from supercharged modern muscle to turbocharged import vehicles. Some enthusiasts can even be found carrying spare plastic fuel tanks in the back of their vehicles to extend their range between visiting the limited stations that carry E85 fuel. It would seem that a market like ours, with such an emphasis on performance, would welcome ethanol with open arms.

The reality is that there are all types of vehicles and equipment that require pure gasoline. Many were designed long before chemicals, such as ethanol, had been considered during the design and validation processes. Critical components, such as engine seals, gaskets, fuel lines and most internal components, were once tortured on engine dynamometers, scorched in hot weather tests and designed assuming nothing less than 100% gasoline would be cycled through the engine during normal operation. As you can imagine, introducing a new fuel into service can bring a new share of unexpected problems. To start, ethanol is hydroscopic, which means it attracts moisture, which leads to increased levels of water in the fuel system. The current E10 blend has the ability to absorb 0.5% volume before reaching a point where water will actually accumulate outside of the fuel mixture (called phase separation). For a 15-gallon fuel tank, that is about 1.2 cups of water that can be introduced into the fuel and supporting systems. This water formation can lead to metal corrosion and the deterioration of plastics and rubber.

The corrosion issue is most detrimental in carbureted vehicles, which include hot rods, musclecars and a large number of production vehicles. Many of the critical components of a carburetor, such as the main body and float bowls, are die cast from aluminum or zinc. When these materials are exposed to ethanol or the water often contained within ethanol, they create a corrosive combination that can lead to carburetor malfunction and potential failure. In addition, the extra moisture that is introduced into the fuel can lead to buildup or “sludge” that can clog the precision internals of a carburetor responsible for proper fuel delivery. Outside of carburetors, the materials that are commonly used to manufacture gaskets, seals and fuel lines are not consistently manufactured with ethanol-resistant fluorinated polymers. After prolonged exposure to ethanol, these materials can deteriorate, clog fuel filters and result in dangerous fuel leaks.

Today, the EPA and ethanol producers are pushing to allow a 50% increase in ethanol content in gasoline by introducing E15 to more markets. The reason is simple—to meet the federal law’s ever-growing demand for renewable fuels—a demand that cannot be met by E10.

SEMA’s Government Affairs Office is working hard to protect unsuspecting motorists and companies that produce their vehicles and equipment. SEMA is asking that E15 be banned at this time and that the federal law’s renewable fuel mandates be adjusted to reasonable numbers that can be achieved in a free marketplace. Without such a change, E20 and E30 will be the next fuels being pumped into gas tanks.

Need more information? Visit the SEMA Government Affairs homepage to stay up to date. This is one trend that shouldn’t be ignored.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ETTN Is!

Be sure to follow ETTN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/ettn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ETTN Column in SEMA Member News

Read ETTN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ETTN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit HRIA's website

	An upcoming general management membership meeting will give HRIA members the chance to connect with each other, meet the Select Committee and learn more about what’s happening in the industry.

HRIA Hosts Two General Membership Meetings in July

By Amanda Gubbins

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will hold one more general membership meeting in July. This event gives HRIA members the chance to connect with each other, meet the Select Committee and learn more about what’s happening in the industry. We hope you will join us:

Wednesday, July 31, 2013
3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
NSRA National Street Rod Nationals
Louisville, Kentucky, Fairgrounds
Visit www.nsra-usa.com for more information.

Be sure to send in your RSVP so that we will enough materials for everyone. Also, feel free to bring guests from your organization along. If you have any questions about the meetings, contact Council Coordinator Gina Ledesma at ginal@sema.org or 909-978-6692.

Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit TORA's website.

	Affordable and effective online product training is now available through the SEMA Product Training Center on SEI’s website. The online training is designed to enhance and expand existing training programs, making product information available to virtually anyone with an Internet connection.

The SEMA Product Training Center is designed to be easy to use and includes simple enrollment. For more information or to sign up for a training module, visit the SEMA Product Training Center.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!

Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MPMC's website.

	PRI Show attendees will be able to have face-to-face interaction with MPMC manufacturers at the inaugural MPMC Education Day at the 2013 PRI Show in Indianapolis, Wednesday December 4, 2013.

MPMC to Present “MPMC Education Day” at 2013 PRI Show

MPMC and PRI will present “MPMC Education Day” at the 2013 PRI Show, Wednesday, December 4, 2013. The event takes place at the Indianapolis Convention Center the day before the PRI Trade Show floor opens.

Patterned after the already successful HRIA Education Day, 15 MPMC-member companies will present one-hour product training presentations to PRI Trade Show attendees. Three seminars will each run concurrently over five, one-hour time slots beginning at 9:00 a.m.

“The HRIA Education Day is wildly successful,” said MPMC Chairman Vic Wood of Hedman. “The PRI Show seemed a perfect venue to try the same template for MPMC companies. We originally were planning to implement it in 2014, but after presenting the idea to John Kilroy and his PRI team, the decision was made to go for it this year. We’ll start with just the 15 companies this year, and see how it goes. But I see no reason why this shouldn’t expand to 30 or 40 companies one day, as soon as attendees realize the opportunity it presents.”

To emphasize the popularity of this program, the 15 registrations were received within one hour of registration opening, and a total 27 registrations were received within two hours. Congratulations to the following MPMC companies who were selected via a first-come, first-served online registration April 30:

• COMP Cams
• Flaming River
• Flowmaster
• Hedman Hedders
• Jiffy-Tite
• Joe Gibbs Driven
• Lunati
• MAHLE
• MSD Performance
• Painless Performance Products
• Phoenix Race Tire
• Quarter Master
• Ron Francis Wiring
• Trend Performance/Diamond Racing
• Turbosmart USA

Session times and seminar titles will be presented in the coming weeks. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

MPMC Business Guidelines Manual

• Bar codes
• Catalogs and price sheets
• Cooperative advertising programs
• Counterfeiting
• Debt collections
• Electronic Data Interchange
• Freight policies
• International business
• Manufacturer's reps
• Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP)
• Packaging
• Insurance
• Terms and Conditions

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!

Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page

The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MRN's website.

Enhance Your Knowledge of SEMA Data Co-op's Product Data Management System

The Manufacturers Representative Network (MRN) and the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) have announced the launch of a new certificate program exclusively for MRN members. Vic Bennett, an MRN Select Committee member, believes this is a valuable benefit for reps. “The SDC’s resources are critical because the goal is to make sure the user gets what they need. We can only do that with correct data,” he explains.

The web-based educational series will help manufacturer's representatives learn more about what the SDC offers through courses designed to build confidence in talking to customers about the SDC’s product data management system.

Participants will have three weeks to complete each of the four sessions and the corresponding quizzes. Those who successfully complete the series will be awarded a certificate of completion, custom lapel pin and be recognized by SEMA and the MRN as SDC ambassadors.

Part one—an overview of the SDC to provide the foundation for the following three courses—is now available to MRN members. This session covers the mission and goals of the SDC, along with key terms reps will need to know when discussing the SDC with customers.

MRN members will soon receive an e-mail from the SEMA Mindflash account with a link to start the first course, including the quiz. In Bennett’s words, “This is your opportunity to be on the front end of something that will make a difference in the business of your suppliers and receivers.”

For questions about the certification program, please contact SDC Director of Membership Jim Graven at JimG@semadatacoop.org or 888-958-6698, ext. 4.

To learn more about the MRN, visit their website or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

SEMA’s Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN) hosts a discussion group on Linkedin for professional reps and sales agents. Recently, MRN asked the question, “In one word, what does it mean to be a sales professional?”

The list as submitted by members of the Linkedin group includes:

• Credibility
• Relationships
• Trust
• Service
• Commitment
• Ethics
• Produce
• Knowledge
• Relevance
• Value

Join the conversation; join MRN at www.sema.org/li-mrc. For more details on how to get involved or to learn how professional reps and agents can help your business, contact Zane Clark at 909-978-6696.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRN is!

Be sure to follow MRN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Read MRN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRN, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit PRO's website.

	SEMA's Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)—dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the specialty-equipment market—has created an online portal to facilitate submissions of OEM letters or service bulletins.

By SEMA Editors

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has created an online portal to facilitate submissions of OEM letters or service bulletins. These submissions will be reviewed by SEMA staff with the intent of gaining a greater understanding of any ramifications these policies may pose for member businesses. SEMA is committed to maintaining a productive dialogue with its OEM partners.

“SEMA’s PRO council brings together the restyling industry and works hard to strengthen it,” said Mike Bacon, chairman of the PRO OEM Relations Committee. “The OEM Relations Committee will work to support SEMA’s effort in building a beneficial dialogue between this industry and the OEMs.”

To submit a letter or bulletin, please use the form available at OEM Bulletins. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Wolf, SEMA’s senior director of OE relations at 909-978-6739.

Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit SBN's website.

	Rose Kawasaki

Rose Kawasaki is pleased to announce the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) new mission statement: “The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network’s mission is to provide networking, education and recognition opportunities for professional women in the specialty-equipment industry, which will enhance their careers and positively impact the growth of the entire automotive aftermarket.”

Kawasaki will become SBN chair, July 1. She hopes to concentrate on member outreach and education during her term. “In order to heighten the awareness of our network, we need to find ways to creatively let others know that we are available. The social portals of Facebook and LinkedIn are important. We also want to help connect by geographical areas,” she said. This goal is important to Kawasaki because she has seen firsthand the benefits of making connections with other female colleagues and engaging students enrolled in automotive programs.

Kawasaki did not take a typical journey to the automotive aftermarket. She began her career in the fashion industry, holding positions in sales and management. Overseeing a large staff of women in multiple locations helped her gain an understanding about the dynamics of working with women—a perspective that proved valuable when she was elected to the SBN Select Committee.

Kawasaki’s husband Wade has a long history in the automotive industry. When he noticed a trend of foreign customers wanting U.S. performance parts, he developed a business plan. In 1987, the couple started an export management company out of their home. Exports International began as a side business, making overseas contacts, processing orders, invoicing and delivering freight to the airport in the evenings. The business quickly grew and soon the couple’s Southern California home was full of automotive and marine products.

“One afternoon a truck pulled up in front of our home, the driver knocked on our door and told us he thought he had the wrong address because he was there to deliver a couple pallets of gaskets. That was the moment when we decided it was time to look for a location for our business,” Kawasaki laughed.

Kawasaki joined Exports International full-time in January 1988 and is now the company's vice president. She was first elected to the SBN Select Committee in 2008. Because the industry is predominately male, it was refreshing for her to hear SEMA offered something for women. She believes many women have a thirst for knowledge and want to advance their professional network. Through SBN, women are able to build a strong sense of camaraderie with others who have similar interests and challenges.

“It’s a great avenue to increase awareness, recognize women working within the industry and to have an opportunity to share experiences,” she says. “Joining the SBN is simple; we’re just a click away on www.sema.org/sbn, and our arms are open to welcome you.”

For more information about joining the SBN, please contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-9991.

		SBN's winning 20th Anniversary celebration logo was designed by Emily Covi.

SBN Announces Winning Design for 20th Anniversary Logo

By Amanda Gubbins

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) has announced the winning logo for its 20th Anniversary celebration. Earlier this year, SBN hosted a contest giving individuals the opportunity to showcase their talent. Three designs were selected as finalists and then voted on by the general public via Facebook. Nearly 200 individuals voted, ultimately choosing Emily Covi’s shield design as the winner.

When she was a young girl, Covi’s father encouraged her to explore the things she loved and find out how to make a living from them. Design was always a hobby of Covi’s, but after earning a degree in Spanish from the University of Georgia, she knew she wanted to devote more time to it.

“As I grew, I found that my two great passions in life were art and automobiles,” Covi said. She found a way to marry the two, tirelessly dedicating herself to finding projects that involved automobiles and motorsports. She is now a full-time freelancer in the Atlanta area.

Being an automobile enthusiast, Covi is also a follower of SEMA’s and SBN’s social networking pages on Facebook and LinkedIn. When she saw the Facebook post announcing the logo design contest, she jumped at the opportunity. Covi saw it as more than just a contest, but also an important mission. “As a woman in the automotive world, I have seen how important we are in the automotive market, and how our contributions can impact all aspects of automobilia and motorsports,” she says.

The elements Covi chose to incorporate into her design say a lot about her experience in the industry. The icon of a shield, often a symbol of strength and fearlessness, was in the forefront of Covi’s mind as she worked on different concepts for the project. “As women in the automotive community, we often find ourselves in the position of having to know twice as much to get half the respect. We must dig deep and carve our place amongst our male counterparts,” she says.

Covi sees the SBN as a resource to unite women in the automotive community, allowing them to gain a stronger presence.

You will see Covi’s logo on many promotional items for SBN in the coming months. Her prize package also included a one-year SEMA membership, tickets to the 2013 SEMA Show and SBN’s Speed Networking Breakfast and Café SEMA events, and last but not least, an official SBN T-shirt.

SBN’s 20th Anniversary reception will take place during The 2013 SEMA Show. Members are invited to join the celebration Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. in the Oasis Lounge at the Las Vegas Hotel. The event will feature networking opportunities and awards presentations as network members celebrate the past, present and future, and honor many of the automotive industry’s most influential women.

For more information about joining SBN, visit the website or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at 909-978-6691.

SBN Members Map Updated

This map serves a great purpose. It allows SBN to find fellow members in our area so we can make connections year round. So check out the SBN members map and get to networking!

Join the discussion on MySEMA!

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!

Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit WTC's website

	SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and CU-ICAR are partnering to develop a comprehensive examination of technology that directly affects vehicle dynamics specific to wheel and tire systems.

SEMA's Vehicle Technology department has been working with the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) on advanced-vehicle technology and a performance aftermarket education program for several years.

SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and CU-ICAR are partnering to develop a comprehensive examination of technology that directly affects vehicle dynamics specific to wheel and tire systems. Phase one of this partnership will take place when WTC leadership visits Clemson this June to meet with professors and graduate students to outline the scope of the project. During the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, details of this ground-breaking partnership will be announced live in SEMA’s Vehicle Technology Center.

The goal of the SEMA/CU-ICAR partnership offers two significant benefits. First and perhaps most importantly, the relationship with CU-ICAR provides a look into the automotive future in a way that no individual SEMA company could hope to achieve. This is a benefit that is difficult to quantify but is crucial to the continued growth and future of the performance aftermarket, given the rapid pace of technology changes in the automotive industry. Secondly, the relationship with CU-ICAR offers the opportunity for SEMA members to access world-class physical and human resources to help develop affordable solutions to address immediate problems and emerging challenges facing SEMA-member companies.

WTC members and interested guests are invited to join us at Clemson University ICAR for an industry discussion, Tuesday, June 11, 2013. As a part of the festivities, you have the chance to participate in an inside tour of CU-ICAR. There will also be plenty of opportunities for you to network with your fellow members.

We hope you’ll join us for this exciting event. Be sure to send your RSVP by Tuesday, May 28, 2013. Feel free to bring a guest who may be interested in learning more about what WTC has to offer.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013 Schedule:

• Presentation/Tour of CU-ICAR: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
• Networking Lunch: 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.
• Industry Discussion: 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
• Networking Mixer: 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Gina Ledesma, council coordinator, at 909-978-6692 or ginal@sema.org.

Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call or 909/978-6696.

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SEMA hosts 10 distinct councils and committees that represent focused niches within the specialty-equipment industry. These groups are comprised of elected volunteers (Select Committee) who guide and direct council activities while representing the membership at large. Although each council acts independently and represents a different segment, they are all focused on the betterment of the industry as a whole.

The value councils provide SEMA and the industry is beyond refute. It is inspiring to witness a diverse collection of company representatives, many of which are direct competitors, come together and develop educational, training, youth awareness and networking events that are, at the core, designed to give back and promote business. An equally important council function is to ensure that SEMA sustains a pulse on the industry and maintains a presence with its members.

The question is often asked, “Why should my company join a council?” The answer is simple. SEMA councils open the doors and provide you exposure to industry leaders, decision makers, trendsetters and a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion and desire to see business succeed and prosper. Once the doors are open, it is your responsibility to take advantage of the benefits by becoming actively involved.

Learn more today.

Visit YEN's website

	Dan Kahn

Introducing YEN Chair Dan Kahn

By Amanda Gubbins

Dan Kahn became the chairman of the Young Executives Network (YEN) July 1. “I’ve been a member for probably a decade but became actively involved about three years ago,” he says.

Kahn has been involved in the automotive aftermarket his entire adult life, working his way through high school at a speed shop before discovering a passion for communications and journalism, which he studied in college. Kahn found ways to incorporate these skills in the automotive industry, writing and editing automotive publications throughout college and landing a job at Petersen Publishing immediately out of school. When the Internet took off, Kahn made the transition to digital media and eventually moved into public relations and marketing in the automotive industry.

Five years ago, Kahn started Kahn Media—a firm that helps brands in the aftermarket communicate directly with consumers by assisting with marketing, public relations and social media strategy. “It’s a rewarding challenge—we get to work with legendary brands and promote incredible products on the traditional side of the industry while helping them find the cutting edge of communication,” he says.

Kahn first started to plug into YEN when he was featured in a “Member of the Month” article. After meeting some of the network leadership and seeing the kinds of things they were doing, Kahn was appointed to an open seat on the Select Committee. “I got involved on the communication side and really had a good time. Being new to the Select Committee, I was fortunate to have worked with Lee McGuire (immediate past chair). She really understands the ins and outs of the network and showed me how to get the most out of my volunteer experience,” Kahn says.

From Kahn’s perspective, YEN is important because it helps bridge the gap between generations to keep the industry strong. For some, there is uncertainty about the next generation of employees and leaders and a fear about where the industry is headed. YEN offers an environment where the next generation of industry leaders can learn from a diverse group of people.

“My goal for the next two years is to help the industry see young executives as the next wave of business leaders. We will continue to provide great programs and a platform for young executives,” says Kahn.

A couple of YEN programs that highlight this goal are Launch Pad—an opportunity for individuals to pitch their business ideas and gain feedback from experienced entrepreneurs, and the Member Activation Program—a chance to explore new possibilities by partnering with other councils and spending time with their Select Committees.

Learn more about the programs YEN offers, or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

	YEN's first-ever “SEMA Launch Pad” contest offers executive-level innovators under the age of 40 an industry platform to showcase their business plan for marketing a new automotive product or service.

YEN Launches the Next Young Automotive Entrepreneur

The SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) celebrates young entrepreneurs by announcing the first-ever “SEMA Launch Pad” contest. This new competition offers executive-level innovators under the age of 40 an industry platform to showcase their business plan for marketing a new automotive product or service.

Through this competition, five finalists will have their business plans peer-reviewed by industry leaders at the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The grand-prize winner will receive a package of advertising tools to help take their business to the next level. The participant’s company will win an array of prizes, including a 10x10-ft. booth at the 2014 SEMA Show, an ad in Hot Rod or 4 Wheel & Off Road magazine, a Family Events sponsorship package and more. Even if you don’t win the grand prize, you and your company may be promoted to thousands of industry professionals curious to learn more about your innovative product or service.

Details:

• The company’s leading executive (company president, CEO or owner) is the participant on behalf of the company. As a YEN member (under age 40), you, the executive, will complete the online application and submit a three-minute video detailing your company’s innovative product or service.

• Your brief video will be reviewed by the YEN Task Force, from which the top 10 candidates will be selected.

• The 10 candidates will be reduced to five, according to which ones receive the most “like” votes via a YEN Facebook page campaign this summer.

• The five candidates will be invited to participate in a live peer review presentation at the 2013 SEMA Show.

• The SEMA Show judges will select the winning YEN executive.

Key deadlines:

• Three-minute video and application due by June 11, 2013.

• Top 10 candidates’ submissions posted on the YEN Facebook page. Facebook voting campaign runs from July 29, 2013, to September 5, 2013. The five candidates with the most “like” votes proceed to the contest finals.

• Top five candidates make a live, 10-minute presentation to the panel of judges at the SEMA Show.

Basic Requirements:

• Participants must be a YEN member (under 40 years old on November 8, 2013) and a legal resident of the United States. Not a YEN member? Become one now.

• YEN member’s company must be a SEMA member. Not a SEMA member? Become one now.

• YEN member’s company must qualify to exhibit at the 2013 SEMA Show (but does not have to exhibit).

• The automotive product or service competing in the SEMA Launch Pad contest must be functioning and currently for sale. No concepts accepted.

• The top five YEN participants will travel to the SEMA Show at their own expense to compete in the live event. The YEN participant must make the presentation before the SEMA Show judges (no substitutes).

• All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize-winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

• By participating in the contest, the YEN participant certifies that he/she has ownership rights to the trademarks, service marks, copyrights, patents and any other intellectual property rights or proprietary information of the company and product/service being marketed, or authorization from the owner of such rights.

It’s time to launch the next Young Automotive Entrepreneur. For more information and to fill out the application, visit www.sema.org/launch-pad. If you have questions, please contact Bryan Harrison, SEMA's senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!

Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit ARMO's website.

Restoration industry veterans Shawn Green, Roger Neihaus, Dave Mihalko Sr. and Steve Ames share some good times at the 2013 ARMO Industry Mixer at Spring Carlisle. The Hot Products tent provided the perfect atmosphere for colleagues to catch up after the winter months.

ARMO Hot Products Showcase Posted Online

Photos from the 2013 ARMO Hot Products Showcase have been posted on the ARMO website. Thanks again to all the ARMO companies that participated in this year’s event.

The ARMO Hot Products Showcase (formerly the “New” Products Showcase) took place April 25–27, 2013, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The annual event puts ARMO-member restoration products in front of 100,000+ restoration enthusiasts during the Spring Carlisle event.

Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit ETTN's website

	This carburetor is an example of corrosion caused by E10 fuel. Photo credit: Tom Shaw.
	Annual ethanol targets are scheduled to continually rise until we reach 36 billion gallons in 2022.

By Sean Crawford – JE Pistons

If you haven’t noticed by now, most gasoline sold in the United States now contains ethanol. In fact, more than 90% of all gasoline contains up to 10% ethanol. The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that ethanol usage in fuel increase from nine billion gallons per year in 2008 to just less than 14 billion gallons in 2013. The mandate is part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which was expanded by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The principle behind the laws was well-intentioned but potentially misplaced—increasing our usage of renewable energy while reducing our dependence on foreign oil.

Year after year, the annual ethanol targets are scheduled to continually rise until we reach 36 billion gallons in 2022. Most of our consumption today is accomplished through the current E10 fuel (90% gasoline, 10% ethanol) commonly found at the pump. Alternatives, such as E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) for “flex-fuel” vehicles exist as well, but are harder to find in most areas and therefore do not make up the majority of the ethanol usage. It is important to note that gas pump labels for E10 and below are subject to state law. Since a number of states, such as California, don’t require a label, motorists may not be aware that they are putting ethanol in their tank.

Ethanol, as a fuel, has its share of advantages. For example, it can be produced from domestically grown corn or other biofuels that is raised by our own farmers. It can also carry a higher octane rating, assuming it has not been contaminated by absorbing water. For the modern performance enthusiast, E85 has become a popular low-budget race fuel for everything from supercharged modern muscle to turbocharged import vehicles. Some enthusiasts can even be found carrying spare plastic fuel tanks in the back of their vehicles to extend their range between visiting the limited stations that carry E85 fuel. It would seem that a market like ours, with such an emphasis on performance, would welcome ethanol with open arms.

The reality is that there are all types of vehicles and equipment that require pure gasoline. Many were designed long before chemicals, such as ethanol, had been considered during the design and validation processes. Critical components, such as engine seals, gaskets, fuel lines and most internal components, were once tortured on engine dynamometers, scorched in hot weather tests and designed assuming nothing less than 100% gasoline would be cycled through the engine during normal operation. As you can imagine, introducing a new fuel into service can bring a new share of unexpected problems. To start, ethanol is hydroscopic, which means it attracts moisture, which leads to increased levels of water in the fuel system. The current E10 blend has the ability to absorb 0.5% volume before reaching a point where water will actually accumulate outside of the fuel mixture (called phase separation). For a 15-gallon fuel tank, that is about 1.2 cups of water that can be introduced into the fuel and supporting systems. This water formation can lead to metal corrosion and the deterioration of plastics and rubber.

The corrosion issue is most detrimental in carbureted vehicles, which include hot rods, musclecars and a large number of production vehicles. Many of the critical components of a carburetor, such as the main body and float bowls, are die cast from aluminum or zinc. When these materials are exposed to ethanol or the water often contained within ethanol, they create a corrosive combination that can lead to carburetor malfunction and potential failure. In addition, the extra moisture that is introduced into the fuel can lead to buildup or “sludge” that can clog the precision internals of a carburetor responsible for proper fuel delivery. Outside of carburetors, the materials that are commonly used to manufacture gaskets, seals and fuel lines are not consistently manufactured with ethanol-resistant fluorinated polymers. After prolonged exposure to ethanol, these materials can deteriorate, clog fuel filters and result in dangerous fuel leaks.

Today, the EPA and ethanol producers are pushing to allow a 50% increase in ethanol content in gasoline by introducing E15 to more markets. The reason is simple—to meet the federal law’s ever-growing demand for renewable fuels—a demand that cannot be met by E10.

SEMA’s Government Affairs Office is working hard to protect unsuspecting motorists and companies that produce their vehicles and equipment. SEMA is asking that E15 be banned at this time and that the federal law’s renewable fuel mandates be adjusted to reasonable numbers that can be achieved in a free marketplace. Without such a change, E20 and E30 will be the next fuels being pumped into gas tanks.

Need more information? Visit the SEMA Government Affairs homepage to stay up to date. This is one trend that shouldn’t be ignored.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ETTN Is!

Be sure to follow ETTN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/ettn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ETTN Column in SEMA Member News

Read ETTN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ETTN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit HRIA's website

	An upcoming general management membership meeting will give HRIA members the chance to connect with each other, meet the Select Committee and learn more about what’s happening in the industry.

HRIA Hosts Two General Membership Meetings in July

By Amanda Gubbins

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will hold one more general membership meeting in July. This event gives HRIA members the chance to connect with each other, meet the Select Committee and learn more about what’s happening in the industry. We hope you will join us:

Wednesday, July 31, 2013
3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
NSRA National Street Rod Nationals
Louisville, Kentucky, Fairgrounds
Visit www.nsra-usa.com for more information.

Be sure to send in your RSVP so that we will enough materials for everyone. Also, feel free to bring guests from your organization along. If you have any questions about the meetings, contact Council Coordinator Gina Ledesma at ginal@sema.org or 909-978-6692.

Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit TORA's website.

	Affordable and effective online product training is now available through the SEMA Product Training Center on SEI’s website. The online training is designed to enhance and expand existing training programs, making product information available to virtually anyone with an Internet connection.

The SEMA Product Training Center is designed to be easy to use and includes simple enrollment. For more information or to sign up for a training module, visit the SEMA Product Training Center.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!

Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MPMC's website.

	PRI Show attendees will be able to have face-to-face interaction with MPMC manufacturers at the inaugural MPMC Education Day at the 2013 PRI Show in Indianapolis, Wednesday December 4, 2013.

MPMC to Present “MPMC Education Day” at 2013 PRI Show

MPMC and PRI will present “MPMC Education Day” at the 2013 PRI Show, Wednesday, December 4, 2013. The event takes place at the Indianapolis Convention Center the day before the PRI Trade Show floor opens.

Patterned after the already successful HRIA Education Day, 15 MPMC-member companies will present one-hour product training presentations to PRI Trade Show attendees. Three seminars will each run concurrently over five, one-hour time slots beginning at 9:00 a.m.

“The HRIA Education Day is wildly successful,” said MPMC Chairman Vic Wood of Hedman. “The PRI Show seemed a perfect venue to try the same template for MPMC companies. We originally were planning to implement it in 2014, but after presenting the idea to John Kilroy and his PRI team, the decision was made to go for it this year. We’ll start with just the 15 companies this year, and see how it goes. But I see no reason why this shouldn’t expand to 30 or 40 companies one day, as soon as attendees realize the opportunity it presents.”

To emphasize the popularity of this program, the 15 registrations were received within one hour of registration opening, and a total 27 registrations were received within two hours. Congratulations to the following MPMC companies who were selected via a first-come, first-served online registration April 30:

• COMP Cams
• Flaming River
• Flowmaster
• Hedman Hedders
• Jiffy-Tite
• Joe Gibbs Driven
• Lunati
• MAHLE
• MSD Performance
• Painless Performance Products
• Phoenix Race Tire
• Quarter Master
• Ron Francis Wiring
• Trend Performance/Diamond Racing
• Turbosmart USA

Session times and seminar titles will be presented in the coming weeks. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

MPMC Business Guidelines Manual

• Bar codes
• Catalogs and price sheets
• Cooperative advertising programs
• Counterfeiting
• Debt collections
• Electronic Data Interchange
• Freight policies
• International business
• Manufacturer's reps
• Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP)
• Packaging
• Insurance
• Terms and Conditions

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!

Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page

The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MRN's website.

Enhance Your Knowledge of SEMA Data Co-op's Product Data Management System

The Manufacturers Representative Network (MRN) and the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) have announced the launch of a new certificate program exclusively for MRN members. Vic Bennett, an MRN Select Committee member, believes this is a valuable benefit for reps. “The SDC’s resources are critical because the goal is to make sure the user gets what they need. We can only do that with correct data,” he explains.

The web-based educational series will help manufacturer's representatives learn more about what the SDC offers through courses designed to build confidence in talking to customers about the SDC’s product data management system.

Participants will have three weeks to complete each of the four sessions and the corresponding quizzes. Those who successfully complete the series will be awarded a certificate of completion, custom lapel pin and be recognized by SEMA and the MRN as SDC ambassadors.

Part one—an overview of the SDC to provide the foundation for the following three courses—is now available to MRN members. This session covers the mission and goals of the SDC, along with key terms reps will need to know when discussing the SDC with customers.

MRN members will soon receive an e-mail from the SEMA Mindflash account with a link to start the first course, including the quiz. In Bennett’s words, “This is your opportunity to be on the front end of something that will make a difference in the business of your suppliers and receivers.”

For questions about the certification program, please contact SDC Director of Membership Jim Graven at JimG@semadatacoop.org or 888-958-6698, ext. 4.

To learn more about the MRN, visit their website or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

SEMA’s Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN) hosts a discussion group on Linkedin for professional reps and sales agents. Recently, MRN asked the question, “In one word, what does it mean to be a sales professional?”

The list as submitted by members of the Linkedin group includes:

• Credibility
• Relationships
• Trust
• Service
• Commitment
• Ethics
• Produce
• Knowledge
• Relevance
• Value

Join the conversation; join MRN at www.sema.org/li-mrc. For more details on how to get involved or to learn how professional reps and agents can help your business, contact Zane Clark at 909-978-6696.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRN is!

Be sure to follow MRN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Read MRN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRN, contact Zane Clark.

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Visit PRO's website.

	SEMA's Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)—dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the specialty-equipment market—has created an online portal to facilitate submissions of OEM letters or service bulletins.

By SEMA Editors

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has created an online portal to facilitate submissions of OEM letters or service bulletins. These submissions will be reviewed by SEMA staff with the intent of gaining a greater understanding of any ramifications these policies may pose for member businesses. SEMA is committed to maintaining a productive dialogue with its OEM partners.

“SEMA’s PRO council brings together the restyling industry and works hard to strengthen it,” said Mike Bacon, chairman of the PRO OEM Relations Committee. “The OEM Relations Committee will work to support SEMA’s effort in building a beneficial dialogue between this industry and the OEMs.”

To submit a letter or bulletin, please use the form available at OEM Bulletins. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Wolf, SEMA’s senior director of OE relations at 909-978-6739.

Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit SBN's website.

	Rose Kawasaki

Rose Kawasaki is pleased to announce the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) new mission statement: “The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network’s mission is to provide networking, education and recognition opportunities for professional women in the specialty-equipment industry, which will enhance their careers and positively impact the growth of the entire automotive aftermarket.”

Kawasaki will become SBN chair, July 1. She hopes to concentrate on member outreach and education during her term. “In order to heighten the awareness of our network, we need to find ways to creatively let others know that we are available. The social portals of Facebook and LinkedIn are important. We also want to help connect by geographical areas,” she said. This goal is important to Kawasaki because she has seen firsthand the benefits of making connections with other female colleagues and engaging students enrolled in automotive programs.

Kawasaki did not take a typical journey to the automotive aftermarket. She began her career in the fashion industry, holding positions in sales and management. Overseeing a large staff of women in multiple locations helped her gain an understanding about the dynamics of working with women—a perspective that proved valuable when she was elected to the SBN Select Committee.

Kawasaki’s husband Wade has a long history in the automotive industry. When he noticed a trend of foreign customers wanting U.S. performance parts, he developed a business plan. In 1987, the couple started an export management company out of their home. Exports International began as a side business, making overseas contacts, processing orders, invoicing and delivering freight to the airport in the evenings. The business quickly grew and soon the couple’s Southern California home was full of automotive and marine products.

“One afternoon a truck pulled up in front of our home, the driver knocked on our door and told us he thought he had the wrong address because he was there to deliver a couple pallets of gaskets. That was the moment when we decided it was time to look for a location for our business,” Kawasaki laughed.

Kawasaki joined Exports International full-time in January 1988 and is now the company's vice president. She was first elected to the SBN Select Committee in 2008. Because the industry is predominately male, it was refreshing for her to hear SEMA offered something for women. She believes many women have a thirst for knowledge and want to advance their professional network. Through SBN, women are able to build a strong sense of camaraderie with others who have similar interests and challenges.

“It’s a great avenue to increase awareness, recognize women working within the industry and to have an opportunity to share experiences,” she says. “Joining the SBN is simple; we’re just a click away on www.sema.org/sbn, and our arms are open to welcome you.”

For more information about joining the SBN, please contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-9991.

		SBN's winning 20th Anniversary celebration logo was designed by Emily Covi.

SBN Announces Winning Design for 20th Anniversary Logo

By Amanda Gubbins

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) has announced the winning logo for its 20th Anniversary celebration. Earlier this year, SBN hosted a contest giving individuals the opportunity to showcase their talent. Three designs were selected as finalists and then voted on by the general public via Facebook. Nearly 200 individuals voted, ultimately choosing Emily Covi’s shield design as the winner.

When she was a young girl, Covi’s father encouraged her to explore the things she loved and find out how to make a living from them. Design was always a hobby of Covi’s, but after earning a degree in Spanish from the University of Georgia, she knew she wanted to devote more time to it.

“As I grew, I found that my two great passions in life were art and automobiles,” Covi said. She found a way to marry the two, tirelessly dedicating herself to finding projects that involved automobiles and motorsports. She is now a full-time freelancer in the Atlanta area.

Being an automobile enthusiast, Covi is also a follower of SEMA’s and SBN’s social networking pages on Facebook and LinkedIn. When she saw the Facebook post announcing the logo design contest, she jumped at the opportunity. Covi saw it as more than just a contest, but also an important mission. “As a woman in the automotive world, I have seen how important we are in the automotive market, and how our contributions can impact all aspects of automobilia and motorsports,” she says.

The elements Covi chose to incorporate into her design say a lot about her experience in the industry. The icon of a shield, often a symbol of strength and fearlessness, was in the forefront of Covi’s mind as she worked on different concepts for the project. “As women in the automotive community, we often find ourselves in the position of having to know twice as much to get half the respect. We must dig deep and carve our place amongst our male counterparts,” she says.

Covi sees the SBN as a resource to unite women in the automotive community, allowing them to gain a stronger presence.

You will see Covi’s logo on many promotional items for SBN in the coming months. Her prize package also included a one-year SEMA membership, tickets to the 2013 SEMA Show and SBN’s Speed Networking Breakfast and Café SEMA events, and last but not least, an official SBN T-shirt.

SBN’s 20th Anniversary reception will take place during The 2013 SEMA Show. Members are invited to join the celebration Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. in the Oasis Lounge at the Las Vegas Hotel. The event will feature networking opportunities and awards presentations as network members celebrate the past, present and future, and honor many of the automotive industry’s most influential women.

For more information about joining SBN, visit the website or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at 909-978-6691.

SBN Members Map Updated

This map serves a great purpose. It allows SBN to find fellow members in our area so we can make connections year round. So check out the SBN members map and get to networking!

Join the discussion on MySEMA!

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!

Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit WTC's website

	SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and CU-ICAR are partnering to develop a comprehensive examination of technology that directly affects vehicle dynamics specific to wheel and tire systems.

SEMA's Vehicle Technology department has been working with the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) on advanced-vehicle technology and a performance aftermarket education program for several years.

SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and CU-ICAR are partnering to develop a comprehensive examination of technology that directly affects vehicle dynamics specific to wheel and tire systems. Phase one of this partnership will take place when WTC leadership visits Clemson this June to meet with professors and graduate students to outline the scope of the project. During the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, details of this ground-breaking partnership will be announced live in SEMA’s Vehicle Technology Center.

The goal of the SEMA/CU-ICAR partnership offers two significant benefits. First and perhaps most importantly, the relationship with CU-ICAR provides a look into the automotive future in a way that no individual SEMA company could hope to achieve. This is a benefit that is difficult to quantify but is crucial to the continued growth and future of the performance aftermarket, given the rapid pace of technology changes in the automotive industry. Secondly, the relationship with CU-ICAR offers the opportunity for SEMA members to access world-class physical and human resources to help develop affordable solutions to address immediate problems and emerging challenges facing SEMA-member companies.

WTC members and interested guests are invited to join us at Clemson University ICAR for an industry discussion, Tuesday, June 11, 2013. As a part of the festivities, you have the chance to participate in an inside tour of CU-ICAR. There will also be plenty of opportunities for you to network with your fellow members.

We hope you’ll join us for this exciting event. Be sure to send your RSVP by Tuesday, May 28, 2013. Feel free to bring a guest who may be interested in learning more about what WTC has to offer.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013 Schedule:

• Presentation/Tour of CU-ICAR: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
• Networking Lunch: 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.
• Industry Discussion: 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
• Networking Mixer: 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Gina Ledesma, council coordinator, at 909-978-6692 or ginal@sema.org.

Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call or 909/978-6696.

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SEMA hosts 10 distinct councils and committees that represent focused niches within the specialty-equipment industry. These groups are comprised of elected volunteers (Select Committee) who guide and direct council activities while representing the membership at large. Although each council acts independently and represents a different segment, they are all focused on the betterment of the industry as a whole.

The value councils provide SEMA and the industry is beyond refute. It is inspiring to witness a diverse collection of company representatives, many of which are direct competitors, come together and develop educational, training, youth awareness and networking events that are, at the core, designed to give back and promote business. An equally important council function is to ensure that SEMA sustains a pulse on the industry and maintains a presence with its members.

The question is often asked, “Why should my company join a council?” The answer is simple. SEMA councils open the doors and provide you exposure to industry leaders, decision makers, trendsetters and a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion and desire to see business succeed and prosper. Once the doors are open, it is your responsibility to take advantage of the benefits by becoming actively involved.

Learn more today.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Car-Care 101

Evolving Trends and Modern Technology Keep Product Manufacturers on Their Toes

Car care encompasses a wide range of surfaces, from paint to wheels and tires. Each offers several material options, such as clear coat vs. matte and chrome vs. aluminum. There are literally hundreds of products specifically designed for each type of surface. To choose the best product for the job, it’s crucial that consumers and professional detailers know the makeup and condition of the surface they’re working on. Big bucks have been spent customizing the vehicles, so products to enhance and maintain their appearance must function without causing damage. To help ease the burden and keep your customers coming back, experts recommend that retailers educate them and stay on top of evolving trends.

New Matte Finishes Create New Challenges

More finish options are available today than ever before, said Ron Fausnight, research and development manager for Houston-based ITW Global Brands—the parent company of several brands that include Rain X and Black Magic. The base coat/clear coat, which was new 20 to 30 years ago, has become the traditional finish. Conversely, consumers with a lower-gloss, matte-type paint should understand that waxing transforms it into a high-gloss finish. A good-quality car wash will work on any finish, but avoid the low-gloss paint areas when waxing and use a detailer to touch it up, Fausnight suggested.

According to Robert Dipede, global business development sales and marketing manager for Los Angeles-based Shining Monkey, wraps and matte-finish paints are all the rage. Plasti dip—a spray-on rubber coating that changes the color of the car—is another surface covering that people are using. But there are few products on the market specifically formulated to clean matte-finish paint, matte vinyls and even printed vinyls.

The matte-finish trend has made a comeback from the old rat-rod days of the ’50s and ’60s, but it has spread to luxury vehicles this time, as inspired by Ken Block’s ’06 Mercedes-Benz CLS, according to Dipede. “It makes the car look more stealth,” he said. “People customize their cars to make them different. That’s part of what the whole matte look is about.”

The look also creates new opportunities for customizers, and new problems for detailers.

“We’ve developed products that help maintain, clean and protect all of those surfaces without causing the matte finish to look shiny or change color,” Dipede said. “It makes the surface look original by leaving an invisible barrier without adding shine. You can’t see the protective barrier, but you can feel it with your hand.”

Over the past 20 years or so, the car-care market has seen a general decline, partially because paint technology has improved drastically, according to Michael Pennington, director of training and consumer relations for Irvine, California-based Meguiar’s. Base-coat/clear-coat technology has slowed the aging process, which is why cars don’t need to be waxed as frequently. However, the market has flourished among enthusiasts.

“Car guys wax their cars on a monthly basis because they want to, not because they have to,” Pennington said. “They have an emotional connection; they take pride in their cars and they want to pamper them all the time because they consider their cars as extensions of themselves. The perception is, ‘I take care of my car; therefore, I take care of myself.’ A small percentage of the market is made up of enthusiasts, but they buy a tremendous amount of products.”

Overall longevity, durability, clearness, increased color options and shine have made paints look more vibrant. Despite their longevity, clear coats tend to scratch easily, but they don’t grind out and oxidize, unlike the early lacquers and enamels. Swirls, scratches and towel marks are now the number-one complaint. Because clear coats are sensitive to abrasion, yesterday’s products don’t necessarily work on today’s finishes, so enthusiasts must always choose products tailored to their finishes.

“We have a variety of products on the shelf designed for the finishes of the ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, and we still make them,” Pennington said. “They might work on a new finish, but we have ones that are designed specifically for modern finishes. The abrasives are different and the formulations are different because they’re designed for scratch-sensitive clears.”

As for mattes, Meguiar’s carries products that work but are not specific to the finish, according to RJ de Vera, associate director of public relations and event marketing for Meguiar’s. “People want miracle solutions for matte that just don’t exist,” he said. “Once you get a big scratch on matte, you can’t do anything about it because you change the sheen of the actual clear coat when you use a compound and an abrasive to polish it out. You can get rid of the scratch, but then you’ll have a shiny spot.”

Keeping Up With Modern Finishes

To keep pace with these changes, Shining Monkey anticipates market trends by developing products three to five years out. The problem here, according to Dipede, is getting newly developed products to retail, because retailers tend to react slower to trends.

“We develop products that are growing with the trend, and retailers take a long time to react and get the products to the shelf because they’re so new,” Dipede said. “For example, we have a matte and vinyl cleaner we’re trying to launch in a few of the larger national chains. The retailers are hesitant because they don’t know how popular matte cars have become. They are out there, and there are no products on the market for them, so the problem is getting retailers to listen to what’s happening.”

Limit Confusion

There are hundreds of pre-waxes, cleaners, glazes, polishes and rubbing compounds on the shelf that all say the same thing, and it’s confusing to the consumer, according to Dipede.

“We try to explain to the average guy—because he doesn’t know the difference between a wax, a polish or a glaze—the different uses and how to apply them,” he said. “In our packaging, we tell consumers they don’t need to do three steps on their cars. If they want to, great, but they don’t have to, especially with modern finishes. As long as you have a good maintenance program, you’re using a good soap and you’re not going through no-touch car washes too often, the paint will last 15–20 years without looking weathered or torn.”

Andy Marocco, owner of Route 66 Speed Shop, suggested that manufacturers keep it simple. The company recently developed Rat Wax, which Marocco says is the first product on the market specifically designed to clean and protect rods and custom cars with flat, matte and satin paints.

“Consumers are inundated with decisions,” he said. “They don’t want several different products. They want one product that they can use on everything, including windows, seats and chrome. The key to connecting with consumers is to get out and talk to them and understand what they need. The market tells you where you should be, so it’s important to respond quickly to new trends.”

Right Tool, Right Technique

“When you go to the doctor, he evaluates you and writes a prescription,” Pennington said. “It’s your responsibility to read the directions and follow them. What happens if you just start popping pills randomly? They don’t do the job, or you may die. Think of all the different brands of car care as medicine. If you don’t know what’s wrong with your vehicle, there’s no way you can choose the right products, and if you don’t follow the directions, you’re not going to get good results. The best way to get good results is to understand what you’re working on and where you want to go.”

When choosing the right product for paint, there are five steps consumers should follow: wash, clean, polish, protect and maintain. Every car needs to be washed frequently using quality microfiber towels and clean mitts, because if they don’t remove the dirt, it’s going to bond and get etched into the finish. According to Pennington, the majority of Americans use dishwashing liquid, and it works, but it strips the wax protection off. He compares it to using an all-purpose cleaner on your hands all the time. To stay ahead of the game, use a pH-balanced, non-detergent car wash designed for automotive finishes.

People often wash and wax their cars and consider it detailing, but Pennington believes they’re missing the boat. Surface prep, or cleaning, removes bonded contaminants and defects, including scratches, swirls, stains and fallout that washing can’t remove. Not everybody does this, even though it can easily be performed using a drill-activated dual-action polisher system with specialized microfiber pads.

“This is what makes a car look really good,” he said. “Think of it as exfoliating your skin. A lot of companies make compounds or clay products. Whether the surface is rough and you want to make it as smooth as glass, or you want to get rid of swirl marks, that’s where this is done.”

Polishing creates gloss and is an optional step, comparable to putting lotion on your skin. The next step is protection, similar to applying sunscreen, which slows down the effects of Mother Nature. The disconnect is that most people don’t know how to protect their vehicles, according to Pennington.

“They see swirls, so they wash and wax, which leaves them with protected swirls,” he said. “If you put sunscreen over grease and grime on your hands, you get protected grease and grime. Not to mention that the wax doesn’t work as well and it doesn’t wipe on or off as easily. If you’re evaluating your car for the first time, you need to wash, clay, compound, wax and maintain your car.”

Three to four months later, it’s time to reevaluate. The vehicle’s finish shouldn’t be rough and have swirls, so a wash and wax would be all that’s necessary.

“So you know how to care for your car now,” Pennington said. “You’ve used the right tools and you haven’t put scratches back into it. It’s like cleaning your house once per year or vacuuming every weekend. If it already looks good, you never need to do a deep clean.”

Matte care is slightly different, but always be critical with washing and drying, wax and protection, Pennington suggested. Don’t use cleaners (compounds and clay) or polish, because they are designed to take out swirls and scratches by leveling a little bit of paint. Never use an abrasive, and do all the work by hand. For protection, a non-
abrasive spray wax works best. For maintenance, quick detailers can be used.

Evaluating the finish and choosing the right product is just as important for wheel care. If you choose the wrong wheel cleaner, you can damage a set of wheels. Understand what you bought, the surfaces you’re working on and, more importantly, the types of brakes and suspension components you have, Pennington suggested. When you spray a wheel cleaner, it goes all the way through and hits all the components. For example, if you have chrome wheels with high-performance brakes, you would not use a chrome wheel cleaner because it’s aggressive. You would choose an aluminum wheel cleaner or the weakest and safest product from a pH-balance perspective. Whether you’re a detailer or a consumer, take the safest, least-aggressive method.

Developing Eco-Friendly Solutions

Read the rest of "Car-Care 101" in the July 2013 issue of SEMA News.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Car-Care 101

Evolving Trends and Modern Technology Keep Product Manufacturers on Their Toes

Car care encompasses a wide range of surfaces, from paint to wheels and tires. Each offers several material options, such as clear coat vs. matte and chrome vs. aluminum. There are literally hundreds of products specifically designed for each type of surface. To choose the best product for the job, it’s crucial that consumers and professional detailers know the makeup and condition of the surface they’re working on. Big bucks have been spent customizing the vehicles, so products to enhance and maintain their appearance must function without causing damage. To help ease the burden and keep your customers coming back, experts recommend that retailers educate them and stay on top of evolving trends.

New Matte Finishes Create New Challenges

More finish options are available today than ever before, said Ron Fausnight, research and development manager for Houston-based ITW Global Brands—the parent company of several brands that include Rain X and Black Magic. The base coat/clear coat, which was new 20 to 30 years ago, has become the traditional finish. Conversely, consumers with a lower-gloss, matte-type paint should understand that waxing transforms it into a high-gloss finish. A good-quality car wash will work on any finish, but avoid the low-gloss paint areas when waxing and use a detailer to touch it up, Fausnight suggested.

According to Robert Dipede, global business development sales and marketing manager for Los Angeles-based Shining Monkey, wraps and matte-finish paints are all the rage. Plasti dip—a spray-on rubber coating that changes the color of the car—is another surface covering that people are using. But there are few products on the market specifically formulated to clean matte-finish paint, matte vinyls and even printed vinyls.

The matte-finish trend has made a comeback from the old rat-rod days of the ’50s and ’60s, but it has spread to luxury vehicles this time, as inspired by Ken Block’s ’06 Mercedes-Benz CLS, according to Dipede. “It makes the car look more stealth,” he said. “People customize their cars to make them different. That’s part of what the whole matte look is about.”

The look also creates new opportunities for customizers, and new problems for detailers.

“We’ve developed products that help maintain, clean and protect all of those surfaces without causing the matte finish to look shiny or change color,” Dipede said. “It makes the surface look original by leaving an invisible barrier without adding shine. You can’t see the protective barrier, but you can feel it with your hand.”

Over the past 20 years or so, the car-care market has seen a general decline, partially because paint technology has improved drastically, according to Michael Pennington, director of training and consumer relations for Irvine, California-based Meguiar’s. Base-coat/clear-coat technology has slowed the aging process, which is why cars don’t need to be waxed as frequently. However, the market has flourished among enthusiasts.

“Car guys wax their cars on a monthly basis because they want to, not because they have to,” Pennington said. “They have an emotional connection; they take pride in their cars and they want to pamper them all the time because they consider their cars as extensions of themselves. The perception is, ‘I take care of my car; therefore, I take care of myself.’ A small percentage of the market is made up of enthusiasts, but they buy a tremendous amount of products.”

Overall longevity, durability, clearness, increased color options and shine have made paints look more vibrant. Despite their longevity, clear coats tend to scratch easily, but they don’t grind out and oxidize, unlike the early lacquers and enamels. Swirls, scratches and towel marks are now the number-one complaint. Because clear coats are sensitive to abrasion, yesterday’s products don’t necessarily work on today’s finishes, so enthusiasts must always choose products tailored to their finishes.

“We have a variety of products on the shelf designed for the finishes of the ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, and we still make them,” Pennington said. “They might work on a new finish, but we have ones that are designed specifically for modern finishes. The abrasives are different and the formulations are different because they’re designed for scratch-sensitive clears.”

As for mattes, Meguiar’s carries products that work but are not specific to the finish, according to RJ de Vera, associate director of public relations and event marketing for Meguiar’s. “People want miracle solutions for matte that just don’t exist,” he said. “Once you get a big scratch on matte, you can’t do anything about it because you change the sheen of the actual clear coat when you use a compound and an abrasive to polish it out. You can get rid of the scratch, but then you’ll have a shiny spot.”

Keeping Up With Modern Finishes

To keep pace with these changes, Shining Monkey anticipates market trends by developing products three to five years out. The problem here, according to Dipede, is getting newly developed products to retail, because retailers tend to react slower to trends.

“We develop products that are growing with the trend, and retailers take a long time to react and get the products to the shelf because they’re so new,” Dipede said. “For example, we have a matte and vinyl cleaner we’re trying to launch in a few of the larger national chains. The retailers are hesitant because they don’t know how popular matte cars have become. They are out there, and there are no products on the market for them, so the problem is getting retailers to listen to what’s happening.”

Limit Confusion

There are hundreds of pre-waxes, cleaners, glazes, polishes and rubbing compounds on the shelf that all say the same thing, and it’s confusing to the consumer, according to Dipede.

“We try to explain to the average guy—because he doesn’t know the difference between a wax, a polish or a glaze—the different uses and how to apply them,” he said. “In our packaging, we tell consumers they don’t need to do three steps on their cars. If they want to, great, but they don’t have to, especially with modern finishes. As long as you have a good maintenance program, you’re using a good soap and you’re not going through no-touch car washes too often, the paint will last 15–20 years without looking weathered or torn.”

Andy Marocco, owner of Route 66 Speed Shop, suggested that manufacturers keep it simple. The company recently developed Rat Wax, which Marocco says is the first product on the market specifically designed to clean and protect rods and custom cars with flat, matte and satin paints.

“Consumers are inundated with decisions,” he said. “They don’t want several different products. They want one product that they can use on everything, including windows, seats and chrome. The key to connecting with consumers is to get out and talk to them and understand what they need. The market tells you where you should be, so it’s important to respond quickly to new trends.”

Right Tool, Right Technique

“When you go to the doctor, he evaluates you and writes a prescription,” Pennington said. “It’s your responsibility to read the directions and follow them. What happens if you just start popping pills randomly? They don’t do the job, or you may die. Think of all the different brands of car care as medicine. If you don’t know what’s wrong with your vehicle, there’s no way you can choose the right products, and if you don’t follow the directions, you’re not going to get good results. The best way to get good results is to understand what you’re working on and where you want to go.”

When choosing the right product for paint, there are five steps consumers should follow: wash, clean, polish, protect and maintain. Every car needs to be washed frequently using quality microfiber towels and clean mitts, because if they don’t remove the dirt, it’s going to bond and get etched into the finish. According to Pennington, the majority of Americans use dishwashing liquid, and it works, but it strips the wax protection off. He compares it to using an all-purpose cleaner on your hands all the time. To stay ahead of the game, use a pH-balanced, non-detergent car wash designed for automotive finishes.

People often wash and wax their cars and consider it detailing, but Pennington believes they’re missing the boat. Surface prep, or cleaning, removes bonded contaminants and defects, including scratches, swirls, stains and fallout that washing can’t remove. Not everybody does this, even though it can easily be performed using a drill-activated dual-action polisher system with specialized microfiber pads.

“This is what makes a car look really good,” he said. “Think of it as exfoliating your skin. A lot of companies make compounds or clay products. Whether the surface is rough and you want to make it as smooth as glass, or you want to get rid of swirl marks, that’s where this is done.”

Polishing creates gloss and is an optional step, comparable to putting lotion on your skin. The next step is protection, similar to applying sunscreen, which slows down the effects of Mother Nature. The disconnect is that most people don’t know how to protect their vehicles, according to Pennington.

“They see swirls, so they wash and wax, which leaves them with protected swirls,” he said. “If you put sunscreen over grease and grime on your hands, you get protected grease and grime. Not to mention that the wax doesn’t work as well and it doesn’t wipe on or off as easily. If you’re evaluating your car for the first time, you need to wash, clay, compound, wax and maintain your car.”

Three to four months later, it’s time to reevaluate. The vehicle’s finish shouldn’t be rough and have swirls, so a wash and wax would be all that’s necessary.

“So you know how to care for your car now,” Pennington said. “You’ve used the right tools and you haven’t put scratches back into it. It’s like cleaning your house once per year or vacuuming every weekend. If it already looks good, you never need to do a deep clean.”

Matte care is slightly different, but always be critical with washing and drying, wax and protection, Pennington suggested. Don’t use cleaners (compounds and clay) or polish, because they are designed to take out swirls and scratches by leveling a little bit of paint. Never use an abrasive, and do all the work by hand. For protection, a non-
abrasive spray wax works best. For maintenance, quick detailers can be used.

Evaluating the finish and choosing the right product is just as important for wheel care. If you choose the wrong wheel cleaner, you can damage a set of wheels. Understand what you bought, the surfaces you’re working on and, more importantly, the types of brakes and suspension components you have, Pennington suggested. When you spray a wheel cleaner, it goes all the way through and hits all the components. For example, if you have chrome wheels with high-performance brakes, you would not use a chrome wheel cleaner because it’s aggressive. You would choose an aluminum wheel cleaner or the weakest and safest product from a pH-balance perspective. Whether you’re a detailer or a consumer, take the safest, least-aggressive method.

Developing Eco-Friendly Solutions

Read the rest of "Car-Care 101" in the July 2013 issue of SEMA News.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Car-Care 101

Evolving Trends and Modern Technology Keep Product Manufacturers on Their Toes

Car care encompasses a wide range of surfaces, from paint to wheels and tires. Each offers several material options, such as clear coat vs. matte and chrome vs. aluminum. There are literally hundreds of products specifically designed for each type of surface. To choose the best product for the job, it’s crucial that consumers and professional detailers know the makeup and condition of the surface they’re working on. Big bucks have been spent customizing the vehicles, so products to enhance and maintain their appearance must function without causing damage. To help ease the burden and keep your customers coming back, experts recommend that retailers educate them and stay on top of evolving trends.

New Matte Finishes Create New Challenges

More finish options are available today than ever before, said Ron Fausnight, research and development manager for Houston-based ITW Global Brands—the parent company of several brands that include Rain X and Black Magic. The base coat/clear coat, which was new 20 to 30 years ago, has become the traditional finish. Conversely, consumers with a lower-gloss, matte-type paint should understand that waxing transforms it into a high-gloss finish. A good-quality car wash will work on any finish, but avoid the low-gloss paint areas when waxing and use a detailer to touch it up, Fausnight suggested.

According to Robert Dipede, global business development sales and marketing manager for Los Angeles-based Shining Monkey, wraps and matte-finish paints are all the rage. Plasti dip—a spray-on rubber coating that changes the color of the car—is another surface covering that people are using. But there are few products on the market specifically formulated to clean matte-finish paint, matte vinyls and even printed vinyls.

The matte-finish trend has made a comeback from the old rat-rod days of the ’50s and ’60s, but it has spread to luxury vehicles this time, as inspired by Ken Block’s ’06 Mercedes-Benz CLS, according to Dipede. “It makes the car look more stealth,” he said. “People customize their cars to make them different. That’s part of what the whole matte look is about.”

The look also creates new opportunities for customizers, and new problems for detailers.

“We’ve developed products that help maintain, clean and protect all of those surfaces without causing the matte finish to look shiny or change color,” Dipede said. “It makes the surface look original by leaving an invisible barrier without adding shine. You can’t see the protective barrier, but you can feel it with your hand.”

Over the past 20 years or so, the car-care market has seen a general decline, partially because paint technology has improved drastically, according to Michael Pennington, director of training and consumer relations for Irvine, California-based Meguiar’s. Base-coat/clear-coat technology has slowed the aging process, which is why cars don’t need to be waxed as frequently. However, the market has flourished among enthusiasts.

“Car guys wax their cars on a monthly basis because they want to, not because they have to,” Pennington said. “They have an emotional connection; they take pride in their cars and they want to pamper them all the time because they consider their cars as extensions of themselves. The perception is, ‘I take care of my car; therefore, I take care of myself.’ A small percentage of the market is made up of enthusiasts, but they buy a tremendous amount of products.”

Overall longevity, durability, clearness, increased color options and shine have made paints look more vibrant. Despite their longevity, clear coats tend to scratch easily, but they don’t grind out and oxidize, unlike the early lacquers and enamels. Swirls, scratches and towel marks are now the number-one complaint. Because clear coats are sensitive to abrasion, yesterday’s products don’t necessarily work on today’s finishes, so enthusiasts must always choose products tailored to their finishes.

“We have a variety of products on the shelf designed for the finishes of the ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, and we still make them,” Pennington said. “They might work on a new finish, but we have ones that are designed specifically for modern finishes. The abrasives are different and the formulations are different because they’re designed for scratch-sensitive clears.”

As for mattes, Meguiar’s carries products that work but are not specific to the finish, according to RJ de Vera, associate director of public relations and event marketing for Meguiar’s. “People want miracle solutions for matte that just don’t exist,” he said. “Once you get a big scratch on matte, you can’t do anything about it because you change the sheen of the actual clear coat when you use a compound and an abrasive to polish it out. You can get rid of the scratch, but then you’ll have a shiny spot.”

Keeping Up With Modern Finishes

To keep pace with these changes, Shining Monkey anticipates market trends by developing products three to five years out. The problem here, according to Dipede, is getting newly developed products to retail, because retailers tend to react slower to trends.

“We develop products that are growing with the trend, and retailers take a long time to react and get the products to the shelf because they’re so new,” Dipede said. “For example, we have a matte and vinyl cleaner we’re trying to launch in a few of the larger national chains. The retailers are hesitant because they don’t know how popular matte cars have become. They are out there, and there are no products on the market for them, so the problem is getting retailers to listen to what’s happening.”

Limit Confusion

There are hundreds of pre-waxes, cleaners, glazes, polishes and rubbing compounds on the shelf that all say the same thing, and it’s confusing to the consumer, according to Dipede.

“We try to explain to the average guy—because he doesn’t know the difference between a wax, a polish or a glaze—the different uses and how to apply them,” he said. “In our packaging, we tell consumers they don’t need to do three steps on their cars. If they want to, great, but they don’t have to, especially with modern finishes. As long as you have a good maintenance program, you’re using a good soap and you’re not going through no-touch car washes too often, the paint will last 15–20 years without looking weathered or torn.”

Andy Marocco, owner of Route 66 Speed Shop, suggested that manufacturers keep it simple. The company recently developed Rat Wax, which Marocco says is the first product on the market specifically designed to clean and protect rods and custom cars with flat, matte and satin paints.

“Consumers are inundated with decisions,” he said. “They don’t want several different products. They want one product that they can use on everything, including windows, seats and chrome. The key to connecting with consumers is to get out and talk to them and understand what they need. The market tells you where you should be, so it’s important to respond quickly to new trends.”

Right Tool, Right Technique

“When you go to the doctor, he evaluates you and writes a prescription,” Pennington said. “It’s your responsibility to read the directions and follow them. What happens if you just start popping pills randomly? They don’t do the job, or you may die. Think of all the different brands of car care as medicine. If you don’t know what’s wrong with your vehicle, there’s no way you can choose the right products, and if you don’t follow the directions, you’re not going to get good results. The best way to get good results is to understand what you’re working on and where you want to go.”

When choosing the right product for paint, there are five steps consumers should follow: wash, clean, polish, protect and maintain. Every car needs to be washed frequently using quality microfiber towels and clean mitts, because if they don’t remove the dirt, it’s going to bond and get etched into the finish. According to Pennington, the majority of Americans use dishwashing liquid, and it works, but it strips the wax protection off. He compares it to using an all-purpose cleaner on your hands all the time. To stay ahead of the game, use a pH-balanced, non-detergent car wash designed for automotive finishes.

People often wash and wax their cars and consider it detailing, but Pennington believes they’re missing the boat. Surface prep, or cleaning, removes bonded contaminants and defects, including scratches, swirls, stains and fallout that washing can’t remove. Not everybody does this, even though it can easily be performed using a drill-activated dual-action polisher system with specialized microfiber pads.

“This is what makes a car look really good,” he said. “Think of it as exfoliating your skin. A lot of companies make compounds or clay products. Whether the surface is rough and you want to make it as smooth as glass, or you want to get rid of swirl marks, that’s where this is done.”

Polishing creates gloss and is an optional step, comparable to putting lotion on your skin. The next step is protection, similar to applying sunscreen, which slows down the effects of Mother Nature. The disconnect is that most people don’t know how to protect their vehicles, according to Pennington.

“They see swirls, so they wash and wax, which leaves them with protected swirls,” he said. “If you put sunscreen over grease and grime on your hands, you get protected grease and grime. Not to mention that the wax doesn’t work as well and it doesn’t wipe on or off as easily. If you’re evaluating your car for the first time, you need to wash, clay, compound, wax and maintain your car.”

Three to four months later, it’s time to reevaluate. The vehicle’s finish shouldn’t be rough and have swirls, so a wash and wax would be all that’s necessary.

“So you know how to care for your car now,” Pennington said. “You’ve used the right tools and you haven’t put scratches back into it. It’s like cleaning your house once per year or vacuuming every weekend. If it already looks good, you never need to do a deep clean.”

Matte care is slightly different, but always be critical with washing and drying, wax and protection, Pennington suggested. Don’t use cleaners (compounds and clay) or polish, because they are designed to take out swirls and scratches by leveling a little bit of paint. Never use an abrasive, and do all the work by hand. For protection, a non-
abrasive spray wax works best. For maintenance, quick detailers can be used.

Evaluating the finish and choosing the right product is just as important for wheel care. If you choose the wrong wheel cleaner, you can damage a set of wheels. Understand what you bought, the surfaces you’re working on and, more importantly, the types of brakes and suspension components you have, Pennington suggested. When you spray a wheel cleaner, it goes all the way through and hits all the components. For example, if you have chrome wheels with high-performance brakes, you would not use a chrome wheel cleaner because it’s aggressive. You would choose an aluminum wheel cleaner or the weakest and safest product from a pH-balance perspective. Whether you’re a detailer or a consumer, take the safest, least-aggressive method.

Developing Eco-Friendly Solutions

Read the rest of "Car-Care 101" in the July 2013 issue of SEMA News.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at the Show by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List. Builders continuously look for the key pieces and products to add visual spice to their builds. The list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the pros that create trendsetting vehicles that capture the imaginations of media and buyers from around the world.

This type of product-placement opportunity is so valuable that manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at greatly reduced rates. The intention of the list is to make builders aware of potential products available. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2013 SEMA Show.

To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form.

The latest additions to the list will be included each week in SEMA eNews, when available. The list is open to exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show only and is intended to build awareness for SEMA Show exhibitors and their products.

For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org or call 909-978-6713.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

Magnuson Superchargers: Complete supercharger kits for most late-model domestic vehicles and resto-mod applications, including LSx, late-model HEMI, and Ford 4.6/5.0 engines. Contact: Matt Hately, matt.hately@magnusonproducts.com; 805-642-8833. Website: www.magnusonproducts.com.

Exterior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

T-REX Grilles: T-REX Grilles offers a wide range of aftermarket grille styles—traditional Billet Grille Series, aggressive X-Metal Grille Series, performance-based Torch Series Grilles, luxurious Upper Class Grille Series and motorsports-inspired Sport Series Grille Series—all which provide the perfect solution for every style and taste. Thousand of applications available for trucks/SUVs/Jeeps/Autos,  including the new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra/Toyota Tundra. After more than 16 years of cutting-edge design, development, fit and finish, the first stop for grilles is T-REX Grilles. Contact: Sponsorship Coordinator, info@trexbillet.com; 951-270-5388. Website: www.trexbillet.com.    

Interior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ harness bar available in four different colors. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

Eibach Springs Inc.: Pro-Kit springs, Sportline springs. Contact: Ryan Hoegner, rhoegner@eibach.com; 951-256-8300. Website: www.eibach.com.

Timbren Industries Inc.: Suspension Enhancement System kit for Truck, Van, SUV or Jeep. Allows vehicle to haul or tow heavy loads without the vehicle sagging or squatting. Available also for off-road use to absorb bounce and shock. Takes the place of the factory bump-stop. Simple bolt in installation. Contact: Andrew Hodgson, ahodgson@timbren.com; 905-444-9004. Website: www.timbren.com.

Other Products/Services

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: We specialize in feature and booth vehicle outfitting. Are you in need of show/race/off-road vehicles to represent you at the 2013 SEMA Show? We have you covered. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.   

Previous Submissions

Engine/Underhood Components

AEM Induction Systems: Cold air intake systems, intercooler systems (limited application), OE replacement air filters, exhaust systems (limited application), strut tower brace, modular tube bends, couplers, brackets, MAF pads. Contact: George Hsieh, georgeh@aemintakes.com; 951-826-4094. Website: www.aemintaks.com.

AIRAID Filter Co.: Cold air intake systems, premium air filters, and PowerAid throttle body spacers for most popular domestic and import cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Trent McGee, trent@airaid.com; 602-652-9732. Website: www.airaid.com.

Auburn Gear: Auburn Gear offers its HP Series limited-slip differential, Pro-Series limited-slip differential, Race Series, and Ected MAX Locker, which is a selectable limited-slip to full locker. Contact: Justin Smith, Jrsmith@auburngear.com; 260-920-1359.

Diamond Eye Performance: Performance diesel exhaust and accessories for Ford, Dodge and Chevy/GM, and performance gas exhaust for Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 Eco-Boost. Contact: Tom Terjeson, tomt@diamondeyemfg.com; 800-635-9950. Website: www.diamondeyeperformance.com.

Doug Thorley Headers: American-made performance exhaust headers, mid-pipes and exhaust systems. Premium-quality products available for classic cars and trucks, LS motor swaps and late-model cars and trucks. Contact: Troy Mastell tmastell@dougthorleyheaders.com; 951-273-3609. Website: www.dougthorleyheaders.com.

Eastwood Co.: Underhood paints, engine paints, battery maintainers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane motor and transmission mounts, shifter bushings. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

K&N Engineering Inc.: High-flow intake systems, OE replacement air filters, high-performance oil filters for most vehicles and powersports applications. Contact: Lucio Tapia, luciot@knfilters.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4350. Website: www.knfilters.com.

KRC Power Steering: Adjustable Assist Power Steering Pumps designed for racing & performance, front drive pulley kits and power steering pump and alternator mounting brackets. Contact: Roger Mealey, roger@krcpower.com; 770-422-5135. Website: www.krcpower.com.

Magnaflow: Performance exhaust systems, mufflers, tips, exhaust pipes, hot rod kits, glasspack, custom builder kits, diesel exhaust and catalytic converters. Contact: Kirsten Wright, kwright@magnaflow.com; 949-858-5900. Website: www.magnaflow.com.

ODYSSEY Battery by EnerSys: High-performance batteries. Contact: April Lowther, april.lowther@enersys.com; 610-208-1729.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Intakes, snorkels and exhaust systems for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Performance Distributors (D.U.I.): High-performance and racing ignition systems; alternators and batteries. Contact: Steve Davis, PerfDist@aol.com; 901-396-5782.

Perma-Cool Products: Cooling components: fans, oil & transmission coolers, oil filter mounts and adapters etc. Contact: Kevin Doyle, kevind@perma-cool.com; 909-391-3000. Website: www.perma-cool.com.

ProCharger: Intercooled ProCharger supercharger systems. Contact: Cary Pangrac, cary.pangrac@procharger.com; 913-338-2886. Website: www.procharger.com.

Pypes Performance Exhaust: Performance exhaust systems, cat-back, diesel stack tips and accessories. Contact: Mike Zimmerman, mikez@pypesexhaust.com; 215-350-1969. Website: www.pypesexhaust.com. 

Radium Engineering: Fuel system surge tanks, PCV catch cans, misc. unique fittings, fuel pumps. Contact: Aaron Suchy, aaron@radiumauto.com; 503-317-8322. Website: www.radiumauto.com. 

Reikken: High-performance power cells, batteries and chargers. Contact: Patrick Szeman, pszman@yahoo.com; 260-348-7003.

SCT Performance: Complete line of Ford and GM vehicle performance programmers. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Spectre Performance: High-performance air intake systems and air filters for musclecars and hot rods, as well as the most popular late-model domestic cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Mike Morrow, mikem@spectreperformance.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4038. Website: www.spectreperformance.com.   

Standard Motor Products: Components offered: High performance/racing spark plug wire sets; also offering battery cables. We supply wire sets to three major NASCAR engine builders. Contact: Brad Hopper, bhopper@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500, ext. 7168. Website: www.BlueStreakwire.com.

VP Racing Fuels: Official Fuel of the NHRA and 60 other sanctioned bodies of racing around the globe is looking for opportunities with key builders this year. We will REQUIRE dyno testing showing performance gains before and after for consideration for sponsorship. Products options will be our new VP101 - Street Legal Performance Unleaded, VP Vintage - Leaded Storage Fuel for Muscle Cars and Vintage vehicles, MS109 - Racing Performance Unleaded, VPC9 - Unleaded Storage Fuel, C85 - Ethanol Based Racing Fuel, and Leaded Racing Fuels - VPC16, VPQ16, VPC12, VP110, etc. Product info and tech sheets available online. Contact: Brian Fox, brian@foxmarketing.net; 717-577-6449. Website: www.vpracingfuels.com.

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

AnzoUSA: Projector headlights, LED taillights, LED light bars, LED pod lights, off-road HID lights. Contact: Shaun Callaway, shaun@anzousa.com; 909-590-8618. Website: www.anzousa.com.

A.R.E. Accessories LLC: A.R.E. truck caps and hard tonneau covers. Each cap is custom built and painted to meet the customer’s specifications. A.R.E. matches the vehicle identification number, paint code and uses a state-of-the-art factory painting system. There are more than a dozen types of truck caps and tonneau covers, as well as commercial units for fleets, that match every lifestyle and truck need. Contact: Shari Arfons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.4are.com.

BASF-The Chemical Co.: BASF R-M Oynx HD Waterborne, Carizzma Candy and Flat, Glasurit, BASF FOOSE Colors, or LIMCO Jet Black single stage available for import, domestic, street rod, pro touring, trucks or European applications. BASF will provide primer, color and clear for selected project vehicles. Contact: Brian Fox, brian.fox@basfpaintnews.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.basfrefinish.com, www.basfpaintnews.com, www.carizzmacolors.com.

BOLT Locks: BOLT locks feature Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology, which permanently programs the lock to a vehicle’s ignition key. When owners insert their ignition key into the BOLT Lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key. They are available for owners of Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles and deliver added security and convenience. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Convert-A-Ball Distributing: Cushioned ball mounts, interchangeable ball sets, fifth wheel to gooseneck adapters, cushioned towing accessories, including six-way multi-hitches, Pintle hitches, adjustable hitches, weight distribution hitches, swivel hitches and clevis hitches. Contact: Dennis Cheatham, info@convert-a-ball.net; 308-254-7115. Website: www.convert-a-ball.net.

Diversi-Tech (DT): Adjustable aluminum ball mounts, various sizes available from 4" to 10" drops, hand polished aluminum for mirror finish. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@progressmfg.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.diversi-tech.net.

Eastwood Co.: Paints: primers, base coat/clearcoat, single stage urethane paints, paint guns and all paint accessories used in painting projects. Glass polishing, headlight restoration, fender rollers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors, and side steps. Contact: Bryan Speer, info@egrusa.com; 909-923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fusion Bumpers: Premium steel bumpers for fullsize Dodge, Ford and GM trucks. Contact: Johnny Ramirez, johnny.fusionbumpers@gmail.com; 877-208-0525. Website: www.fusionbumpers.com.

Go Rhino Products/Big Country: Dominator D4 sidesteps, OE Xtreme sidesteps, Rhino Charger bull bars, winch guards, Wrangler guards. Contact: Mike DeFord, mike@gorhino.com; 714-257-7392.

KC HiLiTES Inc.: Auxiliary lighting products. Contact: Ron Pryczynski, ron@kchilites.com; 928-635-2607. Website: www.kchilites.com.

Masterbuilt: Cargo carrier; motorcycle carrier. Contact: Danny East, deast@masterbuilt.com; 706-2566-3909. Website: www.masterbuilt.com.

MPC Group: Engineered three-piece, or performance light-weight one-piece, forged wheels. Contact: Masato Tsuchiya, Masato@mpcforged.com; 714-998-8462.

N-FAB: Nerf steps, rock rails, full replacement front bumpers, pre-runners, light bars, light brackets, rear runners and tire carriers. Contact: Doug Parks, doug@n-fab.com; 281-880-6322. Website: www.n-fab.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Bumpers, fender flares, hood catches, trim pieces, soft tops, skid plates and more for Jeep. Fender flares for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

ORACLE Lighting: ORACLE Lighting SMD Headlight Halo Kits for Ford Raptor F150, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, and 2013 Dodge Charger. Professional installation service also available to confirmed display vehicles. Contact: Jonathan Barber, jonathan@oraclelights.com; 800-407-5776. Website: www.oraclelights.com.

Paramount Off-Road: Jeep/truck – Complete line of off-road front and rear bumpers, including fenders, rocker guards and sliders for Jeep JK/TJ. LED light bars and accessory lighting is available with vehicle-specific and universal mounting brackets. Lights include square, round and 50” combos. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Restyling: Truck/SUV/Jeep/car and the new 2014 Silverado/Sierra/Tundra – Offering the latest in restyling and trim with a complete line of studded, billet and esh grilles with matching door/tailgate handles, and mirror covers in chrome or carbon fiber finish for most models through 2014. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Workforce: Truck/SUV – Universal contractor racks and hitch-mounted accessories that include bed extenders, baskets and bike carriers for fullsize and compact trucks and SUVs. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

PIAA Corp. USA: Offroad lights, light bulbs and wiper blades. Contact: Justin MacLauchlan, justinm@piaa-usa.com; 503-489-6666.
Website: www.piaa.com.

Retrax Truck Bed Covers: Complete line of retractable pickup bed covers. Contact: Andy Nephew, anephew@retrax.com; 701-746-5596. Website: www.retrax.com.

Ranch Hand Truck Accessories: Front bumper replacements (traditional, bullnose, winch-ready), grille guards, back bumpers, running steps, steps, crossbox, headache rack systems for Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Ram, Toyota and certain products available for Jeep. Contact: Cherise Ratliff, cratliff@ranchhand.com; 361-594-4608. Website: www.ranchhand.com.

Rigid Industries: LED light bars, LED pod lighting, LED off-road lights, marine lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Bed Liners, rocker panel protection, under coating, wheel well protection and full body sprays. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Spyder Auto: L.E.D. taillights, CCFL projection headlights, light bar headlights. Contact: Mikey Lee, mikey@spyderauto.com; 626-934-8884. Website: www.spyderauto.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: DIY TPMS with valve-cap external sensors/driving video recorder. Contact: Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Surco Products Inc.: Roof & Hitch Mounted Basket Racks. All racks have custom adapters to adapt to any factory rack. We also can provide roof rails for any bare roof application. Contact: Osnat Surkin, osnatsurkin@surcoinc.com; 310-323-2520. Website: www.surcoinc.com.

TOFF Sprayed-on Bedliners: Sprayed-on bedliner. Contact: Jason Hamilton, jhamilton@toffliners.com; 214-716-1990. Website: www.toffliners.com.

TrailReady TR Products: Heavy-duty replacement front and rear bumpers, guards and winch mounts. Contact: Dorian Hartfield, dorian@truckaccessoriesnw.com; 888-910-2999. Website: www.trailready.com.

Truck Accessories Group – Leer, Century, Pace Edwards, Raider: Pace Edwards Retractable tonneau cover. Leer fiberglass caps and tonneaus. Contact: Patricia Stewart, pstewart@truckgroup.com; 916-771-0196. Website: www.pace-edwards.com, www.leer.com. 

Westin Automotive Products: Nerf bars and running boards, grille guards and bull bars, light bars, winches (limited), winch mount trays, winch mount grille guards, wind deflectors and bug shields. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.

Whistler: Tire-pressure monitoring system. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

BEDSLIDE/Takit Inc.: BEDSLIDE is simply a better way to access your truck bed by turning it into an easy-access drawer. The BEDSLIDE rolls all of your cargo out to you—saving time, effort and back pain. Available for SEMA project pickups, vans, SUVs and Jeeps. Contact: Jake Plappert, jake@takit.com; 239-340-9608. Website: www.bedslide.com.

Eastwood Co.: Sound deadening material, interior dye, paints, trim restoration solutions and much more. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Edge Products Inc./Superchips: Full line of tuning and monitoring products for '96–up vehicles. Contact: Jim McGinn, jmcginn@powerteq.com; 770-846-0327. Website: www.powerteq.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Floor liners, interior trim, seats, grab handles and more for Jeep. Floor liners for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Retro Manufacturing LLC: Radios, seatbelts, antennas, kick panels, power antennas, and speakers. Contact: Michael Robbins, mrobbins@retrosoundusa.com; 909-364-1372. Website: www.retrosoundusa.com.

ScanGauge-Linear Logic LLC: ScanGauge2, ScanGaugeE or ScanGaugeD. More than just a OBDII scan tool, the ScanGauge product line provides real-time feedback about driving style, more than 15 standard digital gauges, built-in trip computers, performance features and much more. Contact: Joey Snyder, joey.snyder@linear-logic.com; 480-656-4089. Website: www.ScanGauge.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Interior heat and sound control, interior non-slip, easy to clean liners. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: TPMS with professional internal sensors/parking assist system/car alarm/motorcycle alarm. Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Firewall insulator panels, AcoustiShield thermal acoustic automotive insulation kits (pre-cut, ready to install), molded truck headliner kits. See website for availability. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Rigid Industries: Interior accent lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Takata Racing: 50-state legal two-inch or three-inch four-point harness, or cam-lock equipped four-point or six-point SFI FIA HANS harnesses for import, off-road, domestic, American muscle, European or race car applications. NEW Racing seat line include Street Pro LE, Race LE, or Drift LE. Takata shoulder comfort pads available in two-inch or three-inch for all enthusiasts. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Vizualogic: Vizualogic's new Android SmartLogic headrest/tablet system: Kit would include "2" Perfect Match Replacement or Active Headrests. (We match the color, grain, and stitch of the factory headrest) with IR headphone option, "2" 7" five point capacitive touch screen tablets with Wi-Fi capabilities, front-facing camera, wireless FM modulator. Vehicle must be opened and attended to throughout the duration of the 2013 SEMA Show. System could also be used as an in-dash or console mount. Please submit complete build list, including renderings and/or pictures to walt@vizualogic.com. Contact: Walt Detlefsen, walt@vizualogic.com; 951-272-1996.

Westin Automotive Products: Floor mats and cargo mats, tool boxes and headache racks. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.   

Wet Okole Hawaii: Seat covers – Wet Okole manufactures custom-fit, waterproof Neoprene seat covers for most of today's vehicles. More than 40 colors and several styles to choose from. Standard, Solid, Piping, RealTree Camos. Contact: Steven Grew, steven.grew@wetokole.com; 714-434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.

Whistler: High-performance laser radar detectors; power inverters. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Power wire (0, 2, 4, and 8 gauge), batteries and chargers, along with with billet battery hold-downs. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

BDS Suspension: Complete suspension lifts kits for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@bds-suspension.com, 517-279-2135, ext.135. Website: www.bds-suspension.com.

Eastwood Co.: Chassis paint, rust removal, blasting, powder coating, brake flaring tools, brake kits, hand and brake tools. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane control-arm bushings, sway bar and end-link bushings, leaf-spring and shock-eyelet bushings, cab and body mounts, bump stops and master kits for most popular car and truck applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Firestone Industrial Products: Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs kits and components, R4Tech suspension system, air accessory kits and component (air compressors, air tanks, gauges, etc). Contact: Todd Green, greentodd@fsip.com; 317-818-8661. Website: www.fsip.com.

JKS Manufacturing: Suspension solutions and accessories for late model Jeep vehicles. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 517-278-7144, ext. 135. Website: www.jksmfg.com.

KW Automotive North America Inc.: Suspension-lowering components for trucks and SUVs, including spindles, complete kits, shock absorbers, anti-sway bars, etc. Contact: George Ciordas, george.ciordas@kwautomotive.com; 559-875-0222. Website: www.belltech.com.

Maxtrac Suspension: Lift, level, and lowering kits for trucks and SUVs. Contact: Bob Sager, bob@maxtracsuspension.com; 714-630-0363. Website: www.maxtracsuspension.com.

MGP Caliper Covers: Standard, licensed and custom caliper covers. Custom paint and engraving options are also available for select candidates. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Lift kits, brake kits and drivetrain products for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

QA1: Shocks, struts, coil-over kits, control arms, k-members, sway bars, strut tower braces, torque arms, rod ends, ball joints and many other suspension components for a variety of applications. Contact: Kaitlyn Nelson, knelson@qa1.net; 952-985-5675. Website: www.QA1.net.

Zone Offroad Products: Suspension lifts, body lifts, and accessories for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 888-998-9663, ext. 2135. Website: www.zoneoffroad.com.

Wheels & Tires

Atturo Tire: Atturo Tires - AZ800, Trail Blade M/T and A/T. Contact: Michael Mathis, mmathis@atturo.com; 847-265-6146. Website: www.Atturo.com.

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Other Products/Services

BOLT Locks: 1) The Padlock 2.0 is a chrome plated 5/16-inch hardened steel, spring loaded shackle lock inside a crush-resistant body shell. A stronger double ball bearing locking mechanism, it is the perfect lock for commercial and industrial applications. The automotive grade stainless steel lock keeps out weather and debris, ensuring a longer usage life. 2) The Receiver Lock is an auto-return spring and automatically locks when the key is removed. The solid stainless steel pin is durable and keeps out elements and debris. The six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping, guaranteeing your gear will be kept safe on your vehicle. 3) The Cable Lock is a six foot 1/4-inch coiled cable with a 1/16-inch black vinyl coating. The flexible cable is able to pin and loop over many items for added handiness and to keep items protected from picking and bumping. 4) BOLT also has Trailer Spare Tire Locks which fits the steel rim wheel to a studded mount. The locks are made with an electronic nickel plated carbon steel pin or shaft assembly for strength and durability. 5) The Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit features a solid zinc core and an automotive-grade cylinder with patented six-plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. A stainless steel lock shutter keeps out grime and wetness. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Energy Suspension: Universal and custom polyurethane applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fuel Tool: Larger gasoline tank and transfer system that would allow the user to access gasoline from the vehicle's gas tank and transfer it out into any gas-powered equipment, eliminating the need for gas cans. Excellent for trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, vans, etc. Contact: Mike McAvey, mikemcavey@fueltool.com; 201-956-2350. Website: www.fueltool.com.

Hornblasters Inc.: Loudest train horn kits ever made. On board air systems, air horns, and air suspension kits. Contact: Rigo, Rigo@HornBlasters.com; 813-783-8058, ext. 305. Website: www.HornBlasters.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Underhood cover with insulation. Special vehicle-theme molding available. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: High-build polyurethane and polyurea coatings.. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

SCT Performance: Custom-tuning assistance for project vehicles with unusual engine- and/or power-adder combinations. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Takata Racing: New Takata tow straps for race cars or show vehicles. Available in green and black, with Takata logo embroidered. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Wavetrac Differentials: Wavetrac differential. Contact: Dana Clark, info@wavetrac.net; 949-362-8700. Website: www.wavetrac.net.

Whistler: Diagnostic inspection camera. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Starting batteries, power wire, billet hold-downs, and chargers. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at the Show by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List. Builders continuously look for the key pieces and products to add visual spice to their builds. The list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the pros that create trendsetting vehicles that capture the imaginations of media and buyers from around the world.

This type of product-placement opportunity is so valuable that manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at greatly reduced rates. The intention of the list is to make builders aware of potential products available. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2013 SEMA Show.

To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form.

The latest additions to the list will be included each week in SEMA eNews, when available. The list is open to exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show only and is intended to build awareness for SEMA Show exhibitors and their products.

For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org or call 909-978-6713.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

Magnuson Superchargers: Complete supercharger kits for most late-model domestic vehicles and resto-mod applications, including LSx, late-model HEMI, and Ford 4.6/5.0 engines. Contact: Matt Hately, matt.hately@magnusonproducts.com; 805-642-8833. Website: www.magnusonproducts.com.

Exterior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

T-REX Grilles: T-REX Grilles offers a wide range of aftermarket grille styles—traditional Billet Grille Series, aggressive X-Metal Grille Series, performance-based Torch Series Grilles, luxurious Upper Class Grille Series and motorsports-inspired Sport Series Grille Series—all which provide the perfect solution for every style and taste. Thousand of applications available for trucks/SUVs/Jeeps/Autos,  including the new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra/Toyota Tundra. After more than 16 years of cutting-edge design, development, fit and finish, the first stop for grilles is T-REX Grilles. Contact: Sponsorship Coordinator, info@trexbillet.com; 951-270-5388. Website: www.trexbillet.com.    

Interior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ harness bar available in four different colors. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

Eibach Springs Inc.: Pro-Kit springs, Sportline springs. Contact: Ryan Hoegner, rhoegner@eibach.com; 951-256-8300. Website: www.eibach.com.

Timbren Industries Inc.: Suspension Enhancement System kit for Truck, Van, SUV or Jeep. Allows vehicle to haul or tow heavy loads without the vehicle sagging or squatting. Available also for off-road use to absorb bounce and shock. Takes the place of the factory bump-stop. Simple bolt in installation. Contact: Andrew Hodgson, ahodgson@timbren.com; 905-444-9004. Website: www.timbren.com.

Other Products/Services

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: We specialize in feature and booth vehicle outfitting. Are you in need of show/race/off-road vehicles to represent you at the 2013 SEMA Show? We have you covered. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.   

Previous Submissions

Engine/Underhood Components

AEM Induction Systems: Cold air intake systems, intercooler systems (limited application), OE replacement air filters, exhaust systems (limited application), strut tower brace, modular tube bends, couplers, brackets, MAF pads. Contact: George Hsieh, georgeh@aemintakes.com; 951-826-4094. Website: www.aemintaks.com.

AIRAID Filter Co.: Cold air intake systems, premium air filters, and PowerAid throttle body spacers for most popular domestic and import cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Trent McGee, trent@airaid.com; 602-652-9732. Website: www.airaid.com.

Auburn Gear: Auburn Gear offers its HP Series limited-slip differential, Pro-Series limited-slip differential, Race Series, and Ected MAX Locker, which is a selectable limited-slip to full locker. Contact: Justin Smith, Jrsmith@auburngear.com; 260-920-1359.

Diamond Eye Performance: Performance diesel exhaust and accessories for Ford, Dodge and Chevy/GM, and performance gas exhaust for Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 Eco-Boost. Contact: Tom Terjeson, tomt@diamondeyemfg.com; 800-635-9950. Website: www.diamondeyeperformance.com.

Doug Thorley Headers: American-made performance exhaust headers, mid-pipes and exhaust systems. Premium-quality products available for classic cars and trucks, LS motor swaps and late-model cars and trucks. Contact: Troy Mastell tmastell@dougthorleyheaders.com; 951-273-3609. Website: www.dougthorleyheaders.com.

Eastwood Co.: Underhood paints, engine paints, battery maintainers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane motor and transmission mounts, shifter bushings. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

K&N Engineering Inc.: High-flow intake systems, OE replacement air filters, high-performance oil filters for most vehicles and powersports applications. Contact: Lucio Tapia, luciot@knfilters.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4350. Website: www.knfilters.com.

KRC Power Steering: Adjustable Assist Power Steering Pumps designed for racing & performance, front drive pulley kits and power steering pump and alternator mounting brackets. Contact: Roger Mealey, roger@krcpower.com; 770-422-5135. Website: www.krcpower.com.

Magnaflow: Performance exhaust systems, mufflers, tips, exhaust pipes, hot rod kits, glasspack, custom builder kits, diesel exhaust and catalytic converters. Contact: Kirsten Wright, kwright@magnaflow.com; 949-858-5900. Website: www.magnaflow.com.

ODYSSEY Battery by EnerSys: High-performance batteries. Contact: April Lowther, april.lowther@enersys.com; 610-208-1729.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Intakes, snorkels and exhaust systems for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Performance Distributors (D.U.I.): High-performance and racing ignition systems; alternators and batteries. Contact: Steve Davis, PerfDist@aol.com; 901-396-5782.

Perma-Cool Products: Cooling components: fans, oil & transmission coolers, oil filter mounts and adapters etc. Contact: Kevin Doyle, kevind@perma-cool.com; 909-391-3000. Website: www.perma-cool.com.

ProCharger: Intercooled ProCharger supercharger systems. Contact: Cary Pangrac, cary.pangrac@procharger.com; 913-338-2886. Website: www.procharger.com.

Pypes Performance Exhaust: Performance exhaust systems, cat-back, diesel stack tips and accessories. Contact: Mike Zimmerman, mikez@pypesexhaust.com; 215-350-1969. Website: www.pypesexhaust.com. 

Radium Engineering: Fuel system surge tanks, PCV catch cans, misc. unique fittings, fuel pumps. Contact: Aaron Suchy, aaron@radiumauto.com; 503-317-8322. Website: www.radiumauto.com. 

Reikken: High-performance power cells, batteries and chargers. Contact: Patrick Szeman, pszman@yahoo.com; 260-348-7003.

SCT Performance: Complete line of Ford and GM vehicle performance programmers. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Spectre Performance: High-performance air intake systems and air filters for musclecars and hot rods, as well as the most popular late-model domestic cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Mike Morrow, mikem@spectreperformance.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4038. Website: www.spectreperformance.com.   

Standard Motor Products: Components offered: High performance/racing spark plug wire sets; also offering battery cables. We supply wire sets to three major NASCAR engine builders. Contact: Brad Hopper, bhopper@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500, ext. 7168. Website: www.BlueStreakwire.com.

VP Racing Fuels: Official Fuel of the NHRA and 60 other sanctioned bodies of racing around the globe is looking for opportunities with key builders this year. We will REQUIRE dyno testing showing performance gains before and after for consideration for sponsorship. Products options will be our new VP101 - Street Legal Performance Unleaded, VP Vintage - Leaded Storage Fuel for Muscle Cars and Vintage vehicles, MS109 - Racing Performance Unleaded, VPC9 - Unleaded Storage Fuel, C85 - Ethanol Based Racing Fuel, and Leaded Racing Fuels - VPC16, VPQ16, VPC12, VP110, etc. Product info and tech sheets available online. Contact: Brian Fox, brian@foxmarketing.net; 717-577-6449. Website: www.vpracingfuels.com.

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

AnzoUSA: Projector headlights, LED taillights, LED light bars, LED pod lights, off-road HID lights. Contact: Shaun Callaway, shaun@anzousa.com; 909-590-8618. Website: www.anzousa.com.

A.R.E. Accessories LLC: A.R.E. truck caps and hard tonneau covers. Each cap is custom built and painted to meet the customer’s specifications. A.R.E. matches the vehicle identification number, paint code and uses a state-of-the-art factory painting system. There are more than a dozen types of truck caps and tonneau covers, as well as commercial units for fleets, that match every lifestyle and truck need. Contact: Shari Arfons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.4are.com.

BASF-The Chemical Co.: BASF R-M Oynx HD Waterborne, Carizzma Candy and Flat, Glasurit, BASF FOOSE Colors, or LIMCO Jet Black single stage available for import, domestic, street rod, pro touring, trucks or European applications. BASF will provide primer, color and clear for selected project vehicles. Contact: Brian Fox, brian.fox@basfpaintnews.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.basfrefinish.com, www.basfpaintnews.com, www.carizzmacolors.com.

BOLT Locks: BOLT locks feature Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology, which permanently programs the lock to a vehicle’s ignition key. When owners insert their ignition key into the BOLT Lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key. They are available for owners of Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles and deliver added security and convenience. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Convert-A-Ball Distributing: Cushioned ball mounts, interchangeable ball sets, fifth wheel to gooseneck adapters, cushioned towing accessories, including six-way multi-hitches, Pintle hitches, adjustable hitches, weight distribution hitches, swivel hitches and clevis hitches. Contact: Dennis Cheatham, info@convert-a-ball.net; 308-254-7115. Website: www.convert-a-ball.net.

Diversi-Tech (DT): Adjustable aluminum ball mounts, various sizes available from 4" to 10" drops, hand polished aluminum for mirror finish. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@progressmfg.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.diversi-tech.net.

Eastwood Co.: Paints: primers, base coat/clearcoat, single stage urethane paints, paint guns and all paint accessories used in painting projects. Glass polishing, headlight restoration, fender rollers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors, and side steps. Contact: Bryan Speer, info@egrusa.com; 909-923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fusion Bumpers: Premium steel bumpers for fullsize Dodge, Ford and GM trucks. Contact: Johnny Ramirez, johnny.fusionbumpers@gmail.com; 877-208-0525. Website: www.fusionbumpers.com.

Go Rhino Products/Big Country: Dominator D4 sidesteps, OE Xtreme sidesteps, Rhino Charger bull bars, winch guards, Wrangler guards. Contact: Mike DeFord, mike@gorhino.com; 714-257-7392.

KC HiLiTES Inc.: Auxiliary lighting products. Contact: Ron Pryczynski, ron@kchilites.com; 928-635-2607. Website: www.kchilites.com.

Masterbuilt: Cargo carrier; motorcycle carrier. Contact: Danny East, deast@masterbuilt.com; 706-2566-3909. Website: www.masterbuilt.com.

MPC Group: Engineered three-piece, or performance light-weight one-piece, forged wheels. Contact: Masato Tsuchiya, Masato@mpcforged.com; 714-998-8462.

N-FAB: Nerf steps, rock rails, full replacement front bumpers, pre-runners, light bars, light brackets, rear runners and tire carriers. Contact: Doug Parks, doug@n-fab.com; 281-880-6322. Website: www.n-fab.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Bumpers, fender flares, hood catches, trim pieces, soft tops, skid plates and more for Jeep. Fender flares for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

ORACLE Lighting: ORACLE Lighting SMD Headlight Halo Kits for Ford Raptor F150, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, and 2013 Dodge Charger. Professional installation service also available to confirmed display vehicles. Contact: Jonathan Barber, jonathan@oraclelights.com; 800-407-5776. Website: www.oraclelights.com.

Paramount Off-Road: Jeep/truck – Complete line of off-road front and rear bumpers, including fenders, rocker guards and sliders for Jeep JK/TJ. LED light bars and accessory lighting is available with vehicle-specific and universal mounting brackets. Lights include square, round and 50” combos. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Restyling: Truck/SUV/Jeep/car and the new 2014 Silverado/Sierra/Tundra – Offering the latest in restyling and trim with a complete line of studded, billet and esh grilles with matching door/tailgate handles, and mirror covers in chrome or carbon fiber finish for most models through 2014. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Workforce: Truck/SUV – Universal contractor racks and hitch-mounted accessories that include bed extenders, baskets and bike carriers for fullsize and compact trucks and SUVs. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

PIAA Corp. USA: Offroad lights, light bulbs and wiper blades. Contact: Justin MacLauchlan, justinm@piaa-usa.com; 503-489-6666.
Website: www.piaa.com.

Retrax Truck Bed Covers: Complete line of retractable pickup bed covers. Contact: Andy Nephew, anephew@retrax.com; 701-746-5596. Website: www.retrax.com.

Ranch Hand Truck Accessories: Front bumper replacements (traditional, bullnose, winch-ready), grille guards, back bumpers, running steps, steps, crossbox, headache rack systems for Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Ram, Toyota and certain products available for Jeep. Contact: Cherise Ratliff, cratliff@ranchhand.com; 361-594-4608. Website: www.ranchhand.com.

Rigid Industries: LED light bars, LED pod lighting, LED off-road lights, marine lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Bed Liners, rocker panel protection, under coating, wheel well protection and full body sprays. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Spyder Auto: L.E.D. taillights, CCFL projection headlights, light bar headlights. Contact: Mikey Lee, mikey@spyderauto.com; 626-934-8884. Website: www.spyderauto.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: DIY TPMS with valve-cap external sensors/driving video recorder. Contact: Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Surco Products Inc.: Roof & Hitch Mounted Basket Racks. All racks have custom adapters to adapt to any factory rack. We also can provide roof rails for any bare roof application. Contact: Osnat Surkin, osnatsurkin@surcoinc.com; 310-323-2520. Website: www.surcoinc.com.

TOFF Sprayed-on Bedliners: Sprayed-on bedliner. Contact: Jason Hamilton, jhamilton@toffliners.com; 214-716-1990. Website: www.toffliners.com.

TrailReady TR Products: Heavy-duty replacement front and rear bumpers, guards and winch mounts. Contact: Dorian Hartfield, dorian@truckaccessoriesnw.com; 888-910-2999. Website: www.trailready.com.

Truck Accessories Group – Leer, Century, Pace Edwards, Raider: Pace Edwards Retractable tonneau cover. Leer fiberglass caps and tonneaus. Contact: Patricia Stewart, pstewart@truckgroup.com; 916-771-0196. Website: www.pace-edwards.com, www.leer.com. 

Westin Automotive Products: Nerf bars and running boards, grille guards and bull bars, light bars, winches (limited), winch mount trays, winch mount grille guards, wind deflectors and bug shields. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.

Whistler: Tire-pressure monitoring system. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

BEDSLIDE/Takit Inc.: BEDSLIDE is simply a better way to access your truck bed by turning it into an easy-access drawer. The BEDSLIDE rolls all of your cargo out to you—saving time, effort and back pain. Available for SEMA project pickups, vans, SUVs and Jeeps. Contact: Jake Plappert, jake@takit.com; 239-340-9608. Website: www.bedslide.com.

Eastwood Co.: Sound deadening material, interior dye, paints, trim restoration solutions and much more. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Edge Products Inc./Superchips: Full line of tuning and monitoring products for '96–up vehicles. Contact: Jim McGinn, jmcginn@powerteq.com; 770-846-0327. Website: www.powerteq.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Floor liners, interior trim, seats, grab handles and more for Jeep. Floor liners for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Retro Manufacturing LLC: Radios, seatbelts, antennas, kick panels, power antennas, and speakers. Contact: Michael Robbins, mrobbins@retrosoundusa.com; 909-364-1372. Website: www.retrosoundusa.com.

ScanGauge-Linear Logic LLC: ScanGauge2, ScanGaugeE or ScanGaugeD. More than just a OBDII scan tool, the ScanGauge product line provides real-time feedback about driving style, more than 15 standard digital gauges, built-in trip computers, performance features and much more. Contact: Joey Snyder, joey.snyder@linear-logic.com; 480-656-4089. Website: www.ScanGauge.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Interior heat and sound control, interior non-slip, easy to clean liners. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: TPMS with professional internal sensors/parking assist system/car alarm/motorcycle alarm. Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Firewall insulator panels, AcoustiShield thermal acoustic automotive insulation kits (pre-cut, ready to install), molded truck headliner kits. See website for availability. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Rigid Industries: Interior accent lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Takata Racing: 50-state legal two-inch or three-inch four-point harness, or cam-lock equipped four-point or six-point SFI FIA HANS harnesses for import, off-road, domestic, American muscle, European or race car applications. NEW Racing seat line include Street Pro LE, Race LE, or Drift LE. Takata shoulder comfort pads available in two-inch or three-inch for all enthusiasts. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Vizualogic: Vizualogic's new Android SmartLogic headrest/tablet system: Kit would include "2" Perfect Match Replacement or Active Headrests. (We match the color, grain, and stitch of the factory headrest) with IR headphone option, "2" 7" five point capacitive touch screen tablets with Wi-Fi capabilities, front-facing camera, wireless FM modulator. Vehicle must be opened and attended to throughout the duration of the 2013 SEMA Show. System could also be used as an in-dash or console mount. Please submit complete build list, including renderings and/or pictures to walt@vizualogic.com. Contact: Walt Detlefsen, walt@vizualogic.com; 951-272-1996.

Westin Automotive Products: Floor mats and cargo mats, tool boxes and headache racks. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.   

Wet Okole Hawaii: Seat covers – Wet Okole manufactures custom-fit, waterproof Neoprene seat covers for most of today's vehicles. More than 40 colors and several styles to choose from. Standard, Solid, Piping, RealTree Camos. Contact: Steven Grew, steven.grew@wetokole.com; 714-434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.

Whistler: High-performance laser radar detectors; power inverters. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Power wire (0, 2, 4, and 8 gauge), batteries and chargers, along with with billet battery hold-downs. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

BDS Suspension: Complete suspension lifts kits for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@bds-suspension.com, 517-279-2135, ext.135. Website: www.bds-suspension.com.

Eastwood Co.: Chassis paint, rust removal, blasting, powder coating, brake flaring tools, brake kits, hand and brake tools. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane control-arm bushings, sway bar and end-link bushings, leaf-spring and shock-eyelet bushings, cab and body mounts, bump stops and master kits for most popular car and truck applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Firestone Industrial Products: Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs kits and components, R4Tech suspension system, air accessory kits and component (air compressors, air tanks, gauges, etc). Contact: Todd Green, greentodd@fsip.com; 317-818-8661. Website: www.fsip.com.

JKS Manufacturing: Suspension solutions and accessories for late model Jeep vehicles. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 517-278-7144, ext. 135. Website: www.jksmfg.com.

KW Automotive North America Inc.: Suspension-lowering components for trucks and SUVs, including spindles, complete kits, shock absorbers, anti-sway bars, etc. Contact: George Ciordas, george.ciordas@kwautomotive.com; 559-875-0222. Website: www.belltech.com.

Maxtrac Suspension: Lift, level, and lowering kits for trucks and SUVs. Contact: Bob Sager, bob@maxtracsuspension.com; 714-630-0363. Website: www.maxtracsuspension.com.

MGP Caliper Covers: Standard, licensed and custom caliper covers. Custom paint and engraving options are also available for select candidates. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Lift kits, brake kits and drivetrain products for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

QA1: Shocks, struts, coil-over kits, control arms, k-members, sway bars, strut tower braces, torque arms, rod ends, ball joints and many other suspension components for a variety of applications. Contact: Kaitlyn Nelson, knelson@qa1.net; 952-985-5675. Website: www.QA1.net.

Zone Offroad Products: Suspension lifts, body lifts, and accessories for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 888-998-9663, ext. 2135. Website: www.zoneoffroad.com.

Wheels & Tires

Atturo Tire: Atturo Tires - AZ800, Trail Blade M/T and A/T. Contact: Michael Mathis, mmathis@atturo.com; 847-265-6146. Website: www.Atturo.com.

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Other Products/Services

BOLT Locks: 1) The Padlock 2.0 is a chrome plated 5/16-inch hardened steel, spring loaded shackle lock inside a crush-resistant body shell. A stronger double ball bearing locking mechanism, it is the perfect lock for commercial and industrial applications. The automotive grade stainless steel lock keeps out weather and debris, ensuring a longer usage life. 2) The Receiver Lock is an auto-return spring and automatically locks when the key is removed. The solid stainless steel pin is durable and keeps out elements and debris. The six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping, guaranteeing your gear will be kept safe on your vehicle. 3) The Cable Lock is a six foot 1/4-inch coiled cable with a 1/16-inch black vinyl coating. The flexible cable is able to pin and loop over many items for added handiness and to keep items protected from picking and bumping. 4) BOLT also has Trailer Spare Tire Locks which fits the steel rim wheel to a studded mount. The locks are made with an electronic nickel plated carbon steel pin or shaft assembly for strength and durability. 5) The Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit features a solid zinc core and an automotive-grade cylinder with patented six-plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. A stainless steel lock shutter keeps out grime and wetness. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Energy Suspension: Universal and custom polyurethane applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fuel Tool: Larger gasoline tank and transfer system that would allow the user to access gasoline from the vehicle's gas tank and transfer it out into any gas-powered equipment, eliminating the need for gas cans. Excellent for trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, vans, etc. Contact: Mike McAvey, mikemcavey@fueltool.com; 201-956-2350. Website: www.fueltool.com.

Hornblasters Inc.: Loudest train horn kits ever made. On board air systems, air horns, and air suspension kits. Contact: Rigo, Rigo@HornBlasters.com; 813-783-8058, ext. 305. Website: www.HornBlasters.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Underhood cover with insulation. Special vehicle-theme molding available. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: High-build polyurethane and polyurea coatings.. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

SCT Performance: Custom-tuning assistance for project vehicles with unusual engine- and/or power-adder combinations. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Takata Racing: New Takata tow straps for race cars or show vehicles. Available in green and black, with Takata logo embroidered. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Wavetrac Differentials: Wavetrac differential. Contact: Dana Clark, info@wavetrac.net; 949-362-8700. Website: www.wavetrac.net.

Whistler: Diagnostic inspection camera. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Starting batteries, power wire, billet hold-downs, and chargers. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Insuring Specialty Vehicles

How to Cover the Basics and More

Build vehicles are valuable commodities, so whether your business keeps them on display at the shop or takes them on the road to tout your brand, you’ll want to have them properly insured. Yet, adequately covering them can be complicated.

“There can be a lot of crossover and confusion when it comes to coverages,” said Adam Baillie, division manager for HT&R Performance, a section of Hayward Tilton & Rolapp Insurance Associates that focuses primarily on the automotive and motorcycle aftermarkets. “The insurance industry has a lot of terms that we use that are sometimes misunderstood by the general public.”

Covering the Basics

“When it comes to SEMA members, we’ve found the majority [that we cover] are installer shops—the retail guys who deal directly with the public, selling products that are provided by SEMA manufacturers and sometimes also installing them,” Baillie said. “So you have two sides to the business. You have the selling of the product, and then you have the installation. We’re finding that, obviously, due to the Internet, the selling side is probably quite a bit more popular than the installation side. So from an exposure standpoint, the majority of SEMA members are going to have insurance through a business owner’s policy (BOP). That’s designed to be a one-stop, include-all insurance policy usually provided by a big-name insurance company.”

Typically, a BOP can include any or all of the following coverages:

• General liability
• Product liability
• Property insurance
• Commercial automotive insurance

“That probably meets the needs of 90% of the installer members,” Baillie pointed out, adding that BOPs are usually provided by a local regional broker.

Within that BOP, however, the way a vehicle is registered will greatly affect policy particulars.

“When it comes to insuring a vehicle, the majority of the time you’re going to insure it one of two ways,” explained Baillie. “If it’s a non-owned vehicle, you’re going to insure it with garage-keeper’s coverage, which is designed to insure vehicles that are in your care, custody and control. Autos owned by the business are going to be insured under a business or commercial auto policy.”

“The thing with liability insurance is it breaks down into all these specific sections,” added Bob Leggio, principal at Motorsports Insurances Services, which also specializes in coverage for the specialty-equipment industry. Like Baillie, he advises carefully weighing all the factors about how a vehicle is owned and used to fine-tune policies.

“If you’ve got your own cars and they’re used to promote your business, they could be added to your garage-keeper’s liability policy,” Leggio said. “But there are benefits and negatives to that. The obvious negative is that if they’re personal cars owned by you and not necessarily by your business, you may be better off insuring them as individual collector cars that happen to be garaged at your business. The reason for that is the specialty-car policies are more geared toward the correct valuation of the vehicle as well as the adjusting process. More often than not, you’ll have adjustors who are very familiar with your specific car.”

Note that the operative words here are “specialty-car policies.” You normally wouldn’t want to cover a project or collectible vehicle under the typical personal auto policy, said Franco Ganino, vice president of Alliant Insurance Services, another agency catering to the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“I have seen some circumstances where an individual registers a vehicle in their own personal name and they’re calling personal line carriers like State Farm and Allstate and insuring it like it’s their everyday car,” said Ganino. “However, they need to make sure that carrier recognizes the fact that the vehicle has an increased valuation so they don’t just do a replacement cost. Say a $50,000 vehicle has $50,000 put into it and it gets damaged or stolen in the process. The insurance company is going to see it as a stock car, and they’ll be out of pocket for that variance.”

Protecting Dollar Vehicles

All the foregoing is fine if a vehicle is an “ordinary” project car or collectible of a business owner, retailer-installer or manufacturing company. But what if it’s a so-called “dollar car”—a build vehicle purchased through a contracted discount from an OEM to showcase product at trade and consumer events? Here, things can become much more complicated.

“In most cases, what we’re seeing is that these contracts require the business owner or the recipient of the vehicle or even the professional restyler working on the vehicle to carry general liability coverage, and the OEM likes to be named as an additional-named insured,” said Ganino. “Becoming a co-named on the policy allows the OEM to be protected should something happen with the build where they feel they can get pulled into some level of lawsuit as a result of them giving the vehicle to the recipient.”

Some OEMs go even further than that.

In the end, however, the OEM will be most interested in two items of coverage. The first, as mentioned above, is general liability. The OEM wants to know that it is protected against possible injuries to people in and out of a vehicle—even if it will only be driven to and from a trailer to a show or to and from a trailer into a place of business.

“The second item is the physical damage side of the equation,” said Ganino. “If the vehicle is not going to be used on the road or registered through DMV records, the business has to secure an inland marine policy to insure the vehicle no matter where it is.”

That includes loaning the vehicle out to subcontractors.

What’s It Worth?

Which brings us to the tricky factor of determining a specialty vehicle’s value. According to Baillie, it’s vitally important that the policyholder understand the three different ways insurance companies pay out.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Insuring Specialty Vehicles

How to Cover the Basics and More

Build vehicles are valuable commodities, so whether your business keeps them on display at the shop or takes them on the road to tout your brand, you’ll want to have them properly insured. Yet, adequately covering them can be complicated.

“There can be a lot of crossover and confusion when it comes to coverages,” said Adam Baillie, division manager for HT&R Performance, a section of Hayward Tilton & Rolapp Insurance Associates that focuses primarily on the automotive and motorcycle aftermarkets. “The insurance industry has a lot of terms that we use that are sometimes misunderstood by the general public.”

Covering the Basics

“When it comes to SEMA members, we’ve found the majority [that we cover] are installer shops—the retail guys who deal directly with the public, selling products that are provided by SEMA manufacturers and sometimes also installing them,” Baillie said. “So you have two sides to the business. You have the selling of the product, and then you have the installation. We’re finding that, obviously, due to the Internet, the selling side is probably quite a bit more popular than the installation side. So from an exposure standpoint, the majority of SEMA members are going to have insurance through a business owner’s policy (BOP). That’s designed to be a one-stop, include-all insurance policy usually provided by a big-name insurance company.”

Typically, a BOP can include any or all of the following coverages:

• General liability
• Product liability
• Property insurance
• Commercial automotive insurance

“That probably meets the needs of 90% of the installer members,” Baillie pointed out, adding that BOPs are usually provided by a local regional broker.

Within that BOP, however, the way a vehicle is registered will greatly affect policy particulars.

“When it comes to insuring a vehicle, the majority of the time you’re going to insure it one of two ways,” explained Baillie. “If it’s a non-owned vehicle, you’re going to insure it with garage-keeper’s coverage, which is designed to insure vehicles that are in your care, custody and control. Autos owned by the business are going to be insured under a business or commercial auto policy.”

“The thing with liability insurance is it breaks down into all these specific sections,” added Bob Leggio, principal at Motorsports Insurances Services, which also specializes in coverage for the specialty-equipment industry. Like Baillie, he advises carefully weighing all the factors about how a vehicle is owned and used to fine-tune policies.

“If you’ve got your own cars and they’re used to promote your business, they could be added to your garage-keeper’s liability policy,” Leggio said. “But there are benefits and negatives to that. The obvious negative is that if they’re personal cars owned by you and not necessarily by your business, you may be better off insuring them as individual collector cars that happen to be garaged at your business. The reason for that is the specialty-car policies are more geared toward the correct valuation of the vehicle as well as the adjusting process. More often than not, you’ll have adjustors who are very familiar with your specific car.”

Note that the operative words here are “specialty-car policies.” You normally wouldn’t want to cover a project or collectible vehicle under the typical personal auto policy, said Franco Ganino, vice president of Alliant Insurance Services, another agency catering to the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“I have seen some circumstances where an individual registers a vehicle in their own personal name and they’re calling personal line carriers like State Farm and Allstate and insuring it like it’s their everyday car,” said Ganino. “However, they need to make sure that carrier recognizes the fact that the vehicle has an increased valuation so they don’t just do a replacement cost. Say a $50,000 vehicle has $50,000 put into it and it gets damaged or stolen in the process. The insurance company is going to see it as a stock car, and they’ll be out of pocket for that variance.”

Protecting Dollar Vehicles

All the foregoing is fine if a vehicle is an “ordinary” project car or collectible of a business owner, retailer-installer or manufacturing company. But what if it’s a so-called “dollar car”—a build vehicle purchased through a contracted discount from an OEM to showcase product at trade and consumer events? Here, things can become much more complicated.

“In most cases, what we’re seeing is that these contracts require the business owner or the recipient of the vehicle or even the professional restyler working on the vehicle to carry general liability coverage, and the OEM likes to be named as an additional-named insured,” said Ganino. “Becoming a co-named on the policy allows the OEM to be protected should something happen with the build where they feel they can get pulled into some level of lawsuit as a result of them giving the vehicle to the recipient.”

Some OEMs go even further than that.

In the end, however, the OEM will be most interested in two items of coverage. The first, as mentioned above, is general liability. The OEM wants to know that it is protected against possible injuries to people in and out of a vehicle—even if it will only be driven to and from a trailer to a show or to and from a trailer into a place of business.

“The second item is the physical damage side of the equation,” said Ganino. “If the vehicle is not going to be used on the road or registered through DMV records, the business has to secure an inland marine policy to insure the vehicle no matter where it is.”

That includes loaning the vehicle out to subcontractors.

What’s It Worth?

Which brings us to the tricky factor of determining a specialty vehicle’s value. According to Baillie, it’s vitally important that the policyholder understand the three different ways insurance companies pay out.