This nearly undisguised prototype for BMW's all-new F15 X5 SUV was snapped as it returned to the assembly plant after a shakedown run of an early-build X5.

The new front-end treatment gets a variation of the headlight-meets-grille look pioneered on the latest BMW 3-series. The headlight and grille treatment is the most polished version of this design theme seen to date. A completely unobstructed look at the X5's profile shows a tweaked version of the Hofmeister kink and an interesting up-kick around the A-pillar. There is also a new, subtly integrated air-slit just aft of the front wheel.

The new X5's design is evolutionary, but the result appears to be the most svelte, athletic-looking X5 since the nameplate brought BMW into the SUV market.

Photo credit: KGP Photography/PalBay

By Jason Catullo

	As of the conclusion of last week's Priority Space Selection, more than 2,000 exhibitors have selected their spots on the 2013 SEMA Show floor, representing a 6% increase compared same timeframe in 2012.

With registration live and about five months remaining until the opening of the 2013 SEMA Show, more than 2,000 companies have selected their booth locations for the specialty-equipment industry's premiere trade event. As of the conclusion of last week's Priority Space Selection, the number of exhibitors with booth space represents a 6% increase compared to the selection process in 2012.

As the booth-selection process was conducted, the floorplan for the event was updated with the latest companies and their booth locations. The floorplan for the 2013 SEMA Show is online at www.SEMAShow.com/floorplan.

Two of the Show's sections that experienced the largest increases in exhibitors compared to 2012 are Collision Repair, with 28% more companies participating, and Tools & Equipment, which has increased in exhibitors by 17%.   

"The growth and interest in the Tools & Equipment section is related to the value that section represents to exhibitors and the efforts to connect a range of equipment producers with the buyers seeking the latest in tool technology," stated Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

As for the Collision Repair & Refinish, the boost in interest may be linked to the announcement made earlier this month regarding the enhanced features established for the companies in that market. Exhibitors and attendees will benefit from additional targeted activities inside and outside the Las Vegas Convention Center and an upgraded educational program.

To see the entire exhibitor list and the current layouts of the Show's 12 sections, use the 2013 SEMA Show online floorplan.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The Show is expected to draw more than 130,000 industry professionals from throughout the world. Manufacturers interested in exhibiting may do so by visiting www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth. Registration for attendees, media and exhibitors (who have secured booth space) is available online at www.SEMAShow.com/register.

The 2013 SEMA Show is broken down into these sections: Business Services; Collision Repair & Refinish; Global Tire Expo, Powered by TIA; Hot Rod Alley; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Racing & Performance; Restoration Marketplace; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Tools & Equipment; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; and Wheels & Accessories.

By Jason Catullo

	As of the conclusion of last week's Priority Space Selection, more than 2,000 exhibitors have selected their spots on the 2013 SEMA Show floor, representing a 6% increase compared same timeframe in 2012.

With registration live and about five months remaining until the opening of the 2013 SEMA Show, more than 2,000 companies have selected their booth locations for the specialty-equipment industry's premiere trade event. As of the conclusion of last week's Priority Space Selection, the number of exhibitors with booth space represents a 6% increase compared to the selection process in 2012.

As the booth-selection process was conducted, the floorplan for the event was updated with the latest companies and their booth locations. The floorplan for the 2013 SEMA Show is online at www.SEMAShow.com/floorplan.

Two of the Show's sections that experienced the largest increases in exhibitors compared to 2012 are Collision Repair, with 28% more companies participating, and Tools & Equipment, which has increased in exhibitors by 17%.   

"The growth and interest in the Tools & Equipment section is related to the value that section represents to exhibitors and the efforts to connect a range of equipment producers with the buyers seeking the latest in tool technology," stated Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

As for the Collision Repair & Refinish, the boost in interest may be linked to the announcement made earlier this month regarding the enhanced features established for the companies in that market. Exhibitors and attendees will benefit from additional targeted activities inside and outside the Las Vegas Convention Center and an upgraded educational program.

To see the entire exhibitor list and the current layouts of the Show's 12 sections, use the 2013 SEMA Show online floorplan.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The Show is expected to draw more than 130,000 industry professionals from throughout the world. Manufacturers interested in exhibiting may do so by visiting www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth. Registration for attendees, media and exhibitors (who have secured booth space) is available online at www.SEMAShow.com/register.

The 2013 SEMA Show is broken down into these sections: Business Services; Collision Repair & Refinish; Global Tire Expo, Powered by TIA; Hot Rod Alley; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Racing & Performance; Restoration Marketplace; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Tools & Equipment; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; and Wheels & Accessories.

By Linda Spencer

Looking to grow your online sales in China? China's explosive e-commerce growth makes online retailing one of the most effective ways to reach customers. Learn more about the opportunities and challenges facing e-commerce retailers from industry leaders, such as FedEx, Amazon China and the American Society of Transportation & Logistics. Together, they will highlight aspects of China’s fragmented logistics channel and the future of logistics and e-commerce in China. Commercial guidance will also be provided by the U.S. Commercial Service, U.S. Embassy in Beijing. Participants will gain insight into the following:

• E-commerce ecosystem
• Fulfillment channels
• Express delivery industry
• Amazon’s delivery model in China

The webinar, to be held May 28, 2013, from 8:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. (EDT), will feature a Q&A enabling you to ask experts specific questions. The webinar will introduce the Sino-American Logistics Conference held this year in Chicago from October 27–30.

The cost of the webinar is $10. Register today and gain practical knowledge in online retail fulfillment and answer your China e-commerce questions! For more information contact Kellie.Holloway@trade.gov.

By Linda Spencer

Sixty-five companies have measured the Ford Ranger T6—a difficult-to-access vehicle, popular around the world but not sold in the United States. This vehicle arrived in the United States in mid-February and is in the country under a one-year temporary import program.

SEMA-member manufacturers are invited to measure the ’13 Ford Ranger at Dearborn, Michigan-based Link Engineering, at the rescheduled Midwest session now taking place June 6, from 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.


SEMA, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce, has brought the ’13 Ford Ranger T6 to the United States. The one-ton pickup is being sold throughout the world, but not in the United States or Canada.

The new Ford Ranger—a body-on-frame, Australian-designed, midsized pickup is offered in three cab body styles—Double, Super and Regular. The vehicle available to members is a 4x4 Double cab with a 2.5L five-speed gasoline engine. The SEMA vehicle, which was imported from the Middle East, was assembled in South Africa.

This is the second vehicle to be imported as part of the International Vehicle Measuring Program, which makes available difficult-to-access vehicles so that members can measure them and create export-ready product.

If you have previously registered for the Dearborn session please e-mail Kamra Delaney at kamradelaney@gmail.com to RSVP for the June 6 session. If you have not yet registered for the Ranger session, please register online. A ’12 Toyota HiLux is also available.

For general questions on how to measure the Ranger or Toyota HiLux, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

Sixty-five companies have measured the Ford Ranger T6—a difficult-to-access vehicle, popular around the world but not sold in the United States. This vehicle arrived in the United States in mid-February and is in the country under a one-year temporary import program.

SEMA-member manufacturers are invited to measure the ’13 Ford Ranger at Dearborn, Michigan-based Link Engineering, at the rescheduled Midwest session now taking place June 6, from 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.


SEMA, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce, has brought the ’13 Ford Ranger T6 to the United States. The one-ton pickup is being sold throughout the world, but not in the United States or Canada.

The new Ford Ranger—a body-on-frame, Australian-designed, midsized pickup is offered in three cab body styles—Double, Super and Regular. The vehicle available to members is a 4x4 Double cab with a 2.5L five-speed gasoline engine. The SEMA vehicle, which was imported from the Middle East, was assembled in South Africa.

This is the second vehicle to be imported as part of the International Vehicle Measuring Program, which makes available difficult-to-access vehicles so that members can measure them and create export-ready product.

If you have previously registered for the Dearborn session please e-mail Kamra Delaney at kamradelaney@gmail.com to RSVP for the June 6 session. If you have not yet registered for the Ranger session, please register online. A ’12 Toyota HiLux is also available.

For general questions on how to measure the Ranger or Toyota HiLux, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

	Exhibitors looking to get their products on more display vehicles at the 2013 SEMA Show are invited to participate in the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at 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 a 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 addition 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.  

Engine/Underhood Components

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

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

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

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

Other Products/Services

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

	Exhibitors looking to get their products on more display vehicles at the 2013 SEMA Show are invited to participate in the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at 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 a 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 addition 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.  

Engine/Underhood Components

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

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

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

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

Other Products/Services

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

Compiled by Jason Catullo

Hotchkis to Host All-GM Open House in June
Hotchkis Sport Suspension will host and All-GM Open House & Car Show, Saturday, June 29, 9:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. The car show, open to all General Motors vehicles from 1958 to the present, features a raffle giveaway, complimentary lunch and more. While celebrating all things GM with the Hotchkis team, participants will also get an in-depth look at how to improve vehicle handling through a tech talk and Q&A session featuring Hotchkis President John Hotchkis. Hotchkis is located at 8633 Sorenson Ave., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670. For additional information on the Hotchkis Open House & Car Show, contact Jon Barret at jon@kahnmedia.com.

	RealTruck.com CEO Scott Bintz (middle) accepts an award recognizing strong business growth from the Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corp. during the organization's annual meeting in April, where he was also the event’s featured speaker.

RealTruck.com Honored for Strong Business Growth
RealTruck.com received one of two Growing Jamestown Awards from the Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corp. (JSDC). The JSDC cited the strong business growth of RealTruck.com in 2012 and positive influence on the local economy as reasons for the award. The company finished 2102 with a record-breaking $17.5 million in sales and has reportedly kept that upward trajectory well into 2013. RealTruck.com was founded in Spokane, Washington, in 1998 and relocated to the JDSC's I-94 Business Park in Jamestown, North Dakota, in 2000.

BIGFOOT Open House Set for June 1
The 7th Annual BIGFOOT Open House takes place Saturday, June 1, at the BIGFOOT headquarters in Hazelwood, Missouri. The open house is scheduled from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and will feature car crushes, autograph opportunities, a truck show, the Bommarito Automotive Group new car showcase, food and more. For more information, visit www.bigfoot4x4.com.  

JMPR to Manage Strategic Communications for L.A. Auto Show
The Los Angeles Auto Show has selected JMPR Public Relations to work with the LA Auto Show on all strategic communications for the organization in the United States and internationally. As the show's agency of record, JMPR will also be responsible for supporting the launch of the organization’s inaugural Connected Car Expo, November 19–21, as well as the corporate communications for the parent company, ANSA Productions, that produces both shows. JMPR previously handled all media relations for the L.A. Auto Show from 1980 to 1996.

ESAB Earns 2013 Gold Stevie Award for Sales and Customer Service
ESAB Cutting Systems announced that it was recognized as the “Sales Turnaround of the Year” from more than 1,200 entries from organizations in various industries around the globe. The Gold Stevie Award recognizes excellence in sales and customer service.  This year’s award ceremony was held at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. The accomplishment was attributed to sales group's weekly team meetings where they analyzed what produced results with customers.  

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

Compiled by SEMA Editors

	Defending “Salute to Indy” winner Mike Spencer takes the inside against Cody Williams at the May 4 USAC/CRA race at The PAS. Photo credit: Doug Allen.

“Salute to Indy” Sprint Car Race at Perris Auto Speedway This Saturday
The “Salute to Indy” will take place this Saturday night, May 25, at Perris Auto Speedway (PAS). Joining the series will be the PAS Senior Sprints, PAS Young Gun Sprint Cars presented by The Sprint Car Driving Experience and the California Lightning Sprint Cars. 
 
Dempsey Wilson, grandfather of current USAC/CRA driver Seth Wilson and a four-time participant in the Indianapolis 500, won the first “Salute to Indy” in 1948. Since the race inception, a total of 42 different drivers have won the event. The late Dean Thompson has the most “Salute to Indy” wins with six.
 
Five-time defending USAC/CRA champion Mike Spencer comes into Saturday’s event two wins (one non USAC/CRAS race) in the last four races, including last Saturday night’s USAC/CRA main at the Thunderbowl Raceway in Tulare—a second- and a third-place finish. Damion Gardner, who also leads the USAC/CRA Series with three wins including the last one at The PAS on May 4, won the race in 2003 and 2004. In addition to Spencer and Gardner, other former winners shooting for another “Salute to Indy” victory on Saturday night are Rip Williams (1983 at Ascot), David Cardey (2010 at The PAS) and Matt Mitchell (2011 at The PAS).

Collection at Perris Auto Speedway for Oklahoma Tornado Victims
Perris Auto Speedway (PAS) promoter Don Kazarian has announced that the Riverside County clay oval will be accepting donations of clothing and toiletries for the victims of the Oklahoma tornados at this Saturday’s “Salute to Indy” race that is headlined by the Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Cars. Spectator gates will open at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and the first race will start at 7:00 p.m.
 
There will be a table/booth set up by the main spectator entrance for fans to drop off their items as soon as they enter the facility. There will also be one for the race teams near the pit gate or in the infield.
 
Race teams or fans who are not attending Saturday’s race, but who would like to donate products can contact Stephanie Odom, 805-268-1393, or TeeJay Crawford, 618 407-2460.