Twenty-seven specialty-parts suppliers were provided hands-on access to the ’12 Honda CR-V to gather surface data in preparation for designing, developing and manufacturing aftermarket parts and accessories.

Debuting at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, the all-new fourth-generation ’12 Honda CR-V was on display January 25 during SEMA's measuring session at American Honda headquarters in Torrance, California. The session drew 27 specialty-parts suppliers, all of whom were provided hands-on access to the new CR-V in order to gather surface data in preparation for designing, developing and manufacturing aftermarket parts and accessories.

The CR-V is available in LX, EX and EX-L trim levels. New for 2012, the CR-V features Real-Time All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Control System, as well as standard features, including an easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seat, a Bluetooth HandsFreeLink phone interface with a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display and a multi-angle rearview camera. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4L iVTEC four-cylinder engine that produces 185 hp and 163 lb.-ft. of torque paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. EPA-estimated fuel economy is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined.

Here's what some of the attendees had to say about last week's ’12 Honda CR-V measuring session:

"These SEMA measuring sessions have always proven to be beneficial for EGR, not only for the vehicle access provided, but also for the business relations that they help to build between our company and the motor companies. We use these sessions to check existing product while also scanning the vehicle for new developments that we wish to pursue. EGR will be developing and releasing our Integrated Side Step, Hood Shield, Tape-On and In Channel Window Visors, as well as other protective plastic products for the front end of this vehicle for world-wide markets."

—Darrin Olsen, technical services manager, EGR North America

"Our conviction is to deliver an unmatched listening experience without compromising the space, functionality or integrity of the vehicle. SEMA measuring sessions provide us access to the needed information to begin our prototyping process. We measure for speaker mounting locations, taking into account the connectors, dimensions, mounting hole patterns and envelopes available for each speaker. We also identify a suitable location to design our subwoofer, allowing enough internal air volume to produce the proper bass with minimal to no loss of the vehicle's usable capacity. The same is true of our DSP amplifier. We will determine a point where mounting is possible without the need for additional hardware. Lastly, we examine how to run our Quick-Sync wiring harness to power, ground, radio, factory wiring harness and all OEM Audio Plus components. SEMA measuring sessions afford us the first look essential to ensuring our sound system's seamless integration."

—Richard Yvanovich, system integration manager, OEM Audio Plus

"Our main goal was to check fitment of current products so that a proper development schedule can be established for the near future. As it stands, the CR-V has been changed enough from the previous model that many of our current products, including side steps, running boards, front sport bar and rear bumper guard, will require extensive revision. The economy is still struggling and the local dealer-to-aftermarket relationship is not what it once was. Vehicle inventories are lower than in the past, and the availability of new vehicles to product designers is limited. SEMA measuring sessions are a valuable way for us to determine a course of action for new products. I truly appreciate the effort the SEMA staff puts forth and they are always accommodating."

—Dave Pease, product development, WINBO-USA

Check out the schedule and online registration form for upcoming SEMA measuring sessions.

	Twenty-seven specialty-parts suppliers were provided hands-on access to the ’12 Honda CR-V to gather surface data in preparation for designing, developing and manufacturing aftermarket parts and accessories.

Debuting at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, the all-new fourth-generation ’12 Honda CR-V was on display January 25 during SEMA's measuring session at American Honda headquarters in Torrance, California. The session drew 27 specialty-parts suppliers, all of whom were provided hands-on access to the new CR-V in order to gather surface data in preparation for designing, developing and manufacturing aftermarket parts and accessories.

The CR-V is available in LX, EX and EX-L trim levels. New for 2012, the CR-V features Real-Time All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Control System, as well as standard features, including an easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seat, a Bluetooth HandsFreeLink phone interface with a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display and a multi-angle rearview camera. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4L iVTEC four-cylinder engine that produces 185 hp and 163 lb.-ft. of torque paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. EPA-estimated fuel economy is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined.

Here's what some of the attendees had to say about last week's ’12 Honda CR-V measuring session:

"These SEMA measuring sessions have always proven to be beneficial for EGR, not only for the vehicle access provided, but also for the business relations that they help to build between our company and the motor companies. We use these sessions to check existing product while also scanning the vehicle for new developments that we wish to pursue. EGR will be developing and releasing our Integrated Side Step, Hood Shield, Tape-On and In Channel Window Visors, as well as other protective plastic products for the front end of this vehicle for world-wide markets."

—Darrin Olsen, technical services manager, EGR North America

"Our conviction is to deliver an unmatched listening experience without compromising the space, functionality or integrity of the vehicle. SEMA measuring sessions provide us access to the needed information to begin our prototyping process. We measure for speaker mounting locations, taking into account the connectors, dimensions, mounting hole patterns and envelopes available for each speaker. We also identify a suitable location to design our subwoofer, allowing enough internal air volume to produce the proper bass with minimal to no loss of the vehicle's usable capacity. The same is true of our DSP amplifier. We will determine a point where mounting is possible without the need for additional hardware. Lastly, we examine how to run our Quick-Sync wiring harness to power, ground, radio, factory wiring harness and all OEM Audio Plus components. SEMA measuring sessions afford us the first look essential to ensuring our sound system's seamless integration."

—Richard Yvanovich, system integration manager, OEM Audio Plus

"Our main goal was to check fitment of current products so that a proper development schedule can be established for the near future. As it stands, the CR-V has been changed enough from the previous model that many of our current products, including side steps, running boards, front sport bar and rear bumper guard, will require extensive revision. The economy is still struggling and the local dealer-to-aftermarket relationship is not what it once was. Vehicle inventories are lower than in the past, and the availability of new vehicles to product designers is limited. SEMA measuring sessions are a valuable way for us to determine a course of action for new products. I truly appreciate the effort the SEMA staff puts forth and they are always accommodating."

—Dave Pease, product development, WINBO-USA

Check out the schedule and online registration form for upcoming SEMA measuring sessions.

Hawk Performance Hires Andrew Hisley as Director of Marketing
Hawk Performance Products Group, a division of Carlisle Brake and Friction, hired Andrew Hisley as director of marketing. Hisley will coordinate global activities in the performance market segment for aftermarket and OE customers. His responsibilities include coordinating prices, analysis, product rationalization, short- and long-term planning and strategic brand management.

DuPont Accepting Entries for Calendar Competition  
DuPont announced that it is accepting entries for its Calendar Competition, where winners will receive cash prizes and be featured in the company's 2013 calendar. The competition is open to owners with vehicles painted with DuPont Refinish, Hot Hues or Cromax Pro. There is no entry fee for the competition, and entries can be submitted online at www.customfinishescalendar.dupont.com. The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 30, 2012.

Borla Performance Industries Develops Process to Reclaim Water From Diesel, Internal Combustion Exhaust
Borla Performance Industries is one of about 14 companies participating in America's Next Top Energy Innovator Challenge, part of the Startup America initiative, which makes it easier for start-ups to use inventions and technology developed at the U.S. Department of Energy’s 17 National Laboratories and the Y-12 National Security Complex. Borla has the option to license a nano-pore membrane technology from OakRidge National Laboratory which, combined with Borla’s diesel exhaust technology, will lead to a low-cost, unique exhaust system that will double as a neutral energy device to recover and reclaim potable water from diesel and other internal combustion exhaust, according to the company.

The water conversion process is performed through the exhaust system, and this concept can create potable water sources where no water is available. Borla’s muffler/membrane reclamation unit installed on troop vehicles as part of the exhaust system will generate water at the point of use. It will supply a steady stream of water, up to nearly seven gallons a day per person and reduce vulnerability to military personnel while maximizing the tactical use of field troops. For more information and to vote, visit http://energy.gov/americas-next-top-energy-innovator-challenge. Voting closes Monday, February 6.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. Takes on RC Version of His Mustang
K&N Engineering recently released a video of 2010 Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. chasing down a miniature RC car version of his car through the K&N facility. The company is giving away five of the Limited edition Vaughn Gittin Jr. Remote Control Drift Cars, signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr., in a sweepstakes through Facebook. Check out the video, including outtakes, at www.youtube.com/knfilters.

Quarter Mile Foundation to Conduct Interviews at NHRA Winternationals
The Quarter Mile Foundation announced that it will attend the 52nd Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals (February 16–19) to continue its interviews of drag-racing legends who attend the race. The foundation will have a track-side presence at the track's Hot Rod Alley, where Don Garlits will share the booth with the Quarter Mile and drag racing historian Sonny Messner will display Don Garlits' "Swamp Rat 3."

	The newest branch of Allen Berg Racing Schools in Fontana, California, is authorized to recommend students for a SCCA Regional Competition License.

Allen Berg Racing Schools at Auto Club Speedway Receives SCCA Competition Licensing Accreditation
The newest branch of the Allen Berg Racing Schools (located at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California) is now authorized to recommend students for a Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Regional Competition License upon completion of the Allen Berg Racing Schools race driving program. Students enhance their skills through driving single-seat, open-wheel formula cars equipped with on-board data acquisition systems. Already-licensed drivers or drivers who do not need to qualify for an SCCA competition license will have the option of one- and two-day ABRS schools at Auto Club Speedway.

Automotive Lift Institute Partners With Petty's Garage
Automotive Lift Institute will help bring Petty's Garage Performance Tour to nationwide consumers through a recently announced partnership between the two companies. “Partnering with Petty’s Garage on the Performance Tour makes sense because the Automotive Lift Institute’s safety and inspection message is complimented by the rich history and tremendous brand recognition Petty’s Garage brings to the table,” stated R.W. (Bob) O’Gorman, president of Automotive Lift Institute. The partnership is an extension of work that began in 2005 with Richard and Kyle Petty with the production of the “Lifting It Right” DVD focusing on automotive lift operator safety training.

TruXedo Becomes ISO 9001:2008 Certified
TruXedo announced that the company became ISO 9001:2008 certified in December 2011 after completing the audit of its quality management system by Intertek. “Quality...First Time, On Time, Every Time!—This is what the employees of TruXedo, Inc. have lived by for several years, but now we proudly fly the ISO-9000:2008 certification flag in our facility. I'm very appreciative of the diligent work, dedication to the certification process and the focus our employees have demonstrated by providing quality products and service to our customers for well over a decade,” said, Kelly Kneifl, vice president and COO, THI.

Hawk Performance Hires Andrew Hisley as Director of Marketing
Hawk Performance Products Group, a division of Carlisle Brake and Friction, hired Andrew Hisley as director of marketing. Hisley will coordinate global activities in the performance market segment for aftermarket and OE customers. His responsibilities include coordinating prices, analysis, product rationalization, short- and long-term planning and strategic brand management.

DuPont Accepting Entries for Calendar Competition  
DuPont announced that it is accepting entries for its Calendar Competition, where winners will receive cash prizes and be featured in the company's 2013 calendar. The competition is open to owners with vehicles painted with DuPont Refinish, Hot Hues or Cromax Pro. There is no entry fee for the competition, and entries can be submitted online at www.customfinishescalendar.dupont.com. The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m. (EST) on April 30, 2012.

Borla Performance Industries Develops Process to Reclaim Water From Diesel, Internal Combustion Exhaust
Borla Performance Industries is one of about 14 companies participating in America's Next Top Energy Innovator Challenge, part of the Startup America initiative, which makes it easier for start-ups to use inventions and technology developed at the U.S. Department of Energy’s 17 National Laboratories and the Y-12 National Security Complex. Borla has the option to license a nano-pore membrane technology from OakRidge National Laboratory which, combined with Borla’s diesel exhaust technology, will lead to a low-cost, unique exhaust system that will double as a neutral energy device to recover and reclaim potable water from diesel and other internal combustion exhaust, according to the company.

The water conversion process is performed through the exhaust system, and this concept can create potable water sources where no water is available. Borla’s muffler/membrane reclamation unit installed on troop vehicles as part of the exhaust system will generate water at the point of use. It will supply a steady stream of water, up to nearly seven gallons a day per person and reduce vulnerability to military personnel while maximizing the tactical use of field troops. For more information and to vote, visit http://energy.gov/americas-next-top-energy-innovator-challenge. Voting closes Monday, February 6.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. Takes on RC Version of His Mustang
K&N Engineering recently released a video of 2010 Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. chasing down a miniature RC car version of his car through the K&N facility. The company is giving away five of the Limited edition Vaughn Gittin Jr. Remote Control Drift Cars, signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr., in a sweepstakes through Facebook. Check out the video, including outtakes, at www.youtube.com/knfilters.

Quarter Mile Foundation to Conduct Interviews at NHRA Winternationals
The Quarter Mile Foundation announced that it will attend the 52nd Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals (February 16–19) to continue its interviews of drag-racing legends who attend the race. The foundation will have a track-side presence at the track's Hot Rod Alley, where Don Garlits will share the booth with the Quarter Mile and drag racing historian Sonny Messner will display Don Garlits' "Swamp Rat 3."

	The newest branch of Allen Berg Racing Schools in Fontana, California, is authorized to recommend students for a SCCA Regional Competition License.

Allen Berg Racing Schools at Auto Club Speedway Receives SCCA Competition Licensing Accreditation
The newest branch of the Allen Berg Racing Schools (located at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California) is now authorized to recommend students for a Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Regional Competition License upon completion of the Allen Berg Racing Schools race driving program. Students enhance their skills through driving single-seat, open-wheel formula cars equipped with on-board data acquisition systems. Already-licensed drivers or drivers who do not need to qualify for an SCCA competition license will have the option of one- and two-day ABRS schools at Auto Club Speedway.

Automotive Lift Institute Partners With Petty's Garage
Automotive Lift Institute will help bring Petty's Garage Performance Tour to nationwide consumers through a recently announced partnership between the two companies. “Partnering with Petty’s Garage on the Performance Tour makes sense because the Automotive Lift Institute’s safety and inspection message is complimented by the rich history and tremendous brand recognition Petty’s Garage brings to the table,” stated R.W. (Bob) O’Gorman, president of Automotive Lift Institute. The partnership is an extension of work that began in 2005 with Richard and Kyle Petty with the production of the “Lifting It Right” DVD focusing on automotive lift operator safety training.

TruXedo Becomes ISO 9001:2008 Certified
TruXedo announced that the company became ISO 9001:2008 certified in December 2011 after completing the audit of its quality management system by Intertek. “Quality...First Time, On Time, Every Time!—This is what the employees of TruXedo, Inc. have lived by for several years, but now we proudly fly the ISO-9000:2008 certification flag in our facility. I'm very appreciative of the diligent work, dedication to the certification process and the focus our employees have demonstrated by providing quality products and service to our customers for well over a decade,” said, Kelly Kneifl, vice president and COO, THI.

The recently introduced RDX Concept is nearing completion and, according to the shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co., looking pretty close to the actual production model.

Priddy's team says that this prototype appears to be powered by Acura's 3.5L V6 with 273 hp—the same powerplant as the TSX. Priddy also expects an optional 2.3L I4 to be offered.

Look for the RDX to hit dealerships just in time for summer.

Photo: Brenda Priddy & Co.  

The recently introduced RDX Concept is nearing completion and, according to the shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co., looking pretty close to the actual production model.

Priddy's team says that this prototype appears to be powered by Acura's 3.5L V6 with 273 hp—the same powerplant as the TSX. Priddy also expects an optional 2.3L I4 to be offered.

Look for the RDX to hit dealerships just in time for summer.

Photo: Brenda Priddy & Co.  

Protecting Far-Flung Company Data

As significant numbers of businesses migrate to outside-the-enterprise services, such as cloud computing and social media, legal experts say they should consult with their attorneys to ensure that far-flung data is protected, trackable and accessible. Indeed, data generated by cloud computing is especially rife with risk, given that data is stored offsite and under the control of a third-party vendor—a vendor who may not be as awestruck over the importance of a company’s crown data jewels as its officers are.

Contact: 646-233-4089; joe@joedysart.com; or www.joedysart.com

Protecting Far-Flung Company Data

As significant numbers of businesses migrate to outside-the-enterprise services, such as cloud computing and social media, legal experts say they should consult with their attorneys to ensure that far-flung data is protected, trackable and accessible. Indeed, data generated by cloud computing is especially rife with risk, given that data is stored offsite and under the control of a third-party vendor—a vendor who may not be as awestruck over the importance of a company’s crown data jewels as its officers are.

Contact: 646-233-4089; joe@joedysart.com; or www.joedysart.com

	Melanie Rushforth

Melanie Rushforth started her business—Rushforth Wheels—approximately five years ago in Tacoma, Washington, and, like many others within the automotive aftermarket industry, she enjoys the people she meets at shows and other venues. With the help of the Internet, she has also built many relationships through Rushforth Wheels’ online forums.

Rushforth’s current project vehicle is a ’64 Buick Skylark. It's the ultimate love story. Rushforth and her husband were looking for a project and found this ’64 Skylark on Cragislist.com. The car had everything they wanted and the original owner lived about a mile from their front door. Like a dream come true, the Skylark was at its new home that afternoon. Today, you might see Rushforth, her husband and the car that was meant to be theirs from the start taking a cruise on the beach.

However, Melanie’s true passion is late ’40s/early ’50s trucks, which she would use to transport her dogs and bikes and play in style.

On a personal note, Rushforth spends much of her time volunteering with non-profits and in the rotary. She is also an officer on the Board of Tacoma Community College and was named a 40 Under 40 in 2009 and a 2010 Woman of Influence in the Puget Sound.

Rushforth and her husband share their excitement for the industry with their 16-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter. Even though they travel a lot for work, it’s not nearly enough for pleasure. “If everyone we knew bought wheels from us, I’d make a point to spend more time on the beach in a tropical location,” she said.

SEMA's Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) thanks Rushforth for her continuous support.

	Melanie Rushforth

Melanie Rushforth started her business—Rushforth Wheels—approximately five years ago in Tacoma, Washington, and, like many others within the automotive aftermarket industry, she enjoys the people she meets at shows and other venues. With the help of the Internet, she has also built many relationships through Rushforth Wheels’ online forums.

Rushforth’s current project vehicle is a ’64 Buick Skylark. It's the ultimate love story. Rushforth and her husband were looking for a project and found this ’64 Skylark on Cragislist.com. The car had everything they wanted and the original owner lived about a mile from their front door. Like a dream come true, the Skylark was at its new home that afternoon. Today, you might see Rushforth, her husband and the car that was meant to be theirs from the start taking a cruise on the beach.

However, Melanie’s true passion is late ’40s/early ’50s trucks, which she would use to transport her dogs and bikes and play in style.

On a personal note, Rushforth spends much of her time volunteering with non-profits and in the rotary. She is also an officer on the Board of Tacoma Community College and was named a 40 Under 40 in 2009 and a 2010 Woman of Influence in the Puget Sound.

Rushforth and her husband share their excitement for the industry with their 16-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter. Even though they travel a lot for work, it’s not nearly enough for pleasure. “If everyone we knew bought wheels from us, I’d make a point to spend more time on the beach in a tropical location,” she said.

SEMA's Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) thanks Rushforth for her continuous support.