By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members are needed to serve as volunteer judges for the 2022 SEMA Scholarship Program.

With students from every segment of the industry applying, the SEMA Scholarship Program is seeking a diverse group of professionals to serve as volunteer judges who will review applications and assist with selecting winners. Flexibility is available and the task can be performed around the volunteer’s individual schedule, with opportunities for those who have very limited time to assist.   

Judging begins April 4 and continues until May 16. Click here to learn more and begin your scholarship judge application.  

To learn more about the SEMA Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness program, visit www.sema.org/scholarships. 

Two years ago, the Lamborghini Urus received a slight makeover incorporating a redesigned key fob, a reworked parking assist that supports parallel and perpendicular parking modes, more colors to choose from and the optional Sensonum audio set comprising 17 speakers rated at 730W total.

Our man near the Arctic Circle got another batch of shots of the facelifted ’22 Urus EVO with which Italy’s super-SUV will receive a slight makeover of the exterior—namely new layouts for the lamp clusters front and rear as well as a modified front grille, plus, a new exhaust system and even new bumpers front and rear.

Today’s Urus comes powered by a V8 4.0 TT rated at 650 hp and 850 Nm. It needs only 3.6 seconds to hit 60 mph and maxes out at 190 mph. An eight-speed automatic transmission works in tandem with a limited-slip inter-axle Torsen differential. Expect a slight plus in power and top-speed.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

By Rachel Tatum

Dawson (@lucky.lly), a 22-year-old builder from British Columbia, Canada, will join SEMA Young Guns followers for an Instagram “Ask Me Anything” on Tuesday, March 15, from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (PDT).

Dawson documented a full rebuild of his ’04 GMC Sierra on TikTok and Instagram, generating content that caught the eyes of his partners and secured him a spot at the 2021 SEMA Show.

Content creation pushed Dawson to new heights as a builder by becoming more creative with his modifications through inspiration from other builders and feedback from his followers. Dawson documented a full rebuild of his ’04 GMC Sierra on TikTok and Instagram, generating content that caught the eyes of his partners and secured him a spot at the 2021 SEMA Show. Dawson continues to post daily automotive based content with his rapidly growing follower base!

SEMA continues to actively recruit automotive influencers for the SEMA Social Media Correspondent program. Apply now to be considered.

By Ashley Reyes

As advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) become commonplace and are included in one form or another on every new vehicle, aftermarket engineers and developers will need to understand how the systems impact vehicle modifications, repairs, calibration and testing.

As an emerging technology that is constantly evolving, little to no research has been completed in regard to how modifications and repairs impact the ADAS equipment. SEMA is presenting a unique webinar to help engineers and developers better understand how ADAS will impact what they do. Join industry experts as they explain the unknowns surrounding ADAS technology on March 15, at 1:00 p.m. (PDT).   

Hosted by the SEMA Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN), the webinar will feature Luis Morales, mechanical engineer at SEMA Garage, and Scott Brown, founder of Diagnostic Network, as they talk about:   

• Aftermarket product development around new technology. 
• SEMA’s current research on this topic. 
• What the systems are, what they do and why they are important.
• Introduction to the new SEMA Garage Detroit facility and how the ADAS Research Center will assist SEMA members.

Take advantage of the opportunity to hear from experts who work with ADAS technology and the aftermarket on a regular basis, and tap into their knowledge during the event.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

Armond Gilmore is the SEMA Future Leaders Network’s (FLN) newest spotlight member. Gilmore is a graphic designer at Skyjacker Suspension, manufacturer of leveling kits, lift kits, and shocks and accessories for trucks, SUVs and Jeeps.

Get to know Gilmore in his interview with SEMA below.

SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Armond Gilmore: Learn something new every day. As someone who works on the creative side, I have to make sure I keep up with the trends. A lot of times that means trying new things and approaching problems in different ways.

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

AG: From my Skyjacker family, who is beyond supportive, to all the fantastic people I’ve met on trail rides and shows. It’s so inspiring seeing so many people dedicated to the industry.

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

AG: You can find me traveling, hanging with friends or fulfilling my Louisiana Army National Guard duties.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

AG: Generally, I do my research before the meeting, either by coming up with design concepts or marketing ideas. Also, I always bring my sketchbook to every meeting.

SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?

AG: Larry Chen. As a fellow photographer, I admire how he captures so many amazing builds within the industry. I would love to pick his brain on his techniques and approach for different photoshoots.

If you are a current FLN member, fill out an FLN member spotlight form. Selected candidates may be featured on FLN’s social media, SEMA eNews and FLN member updates.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The wait is over. Small-volume motor-vehicle manufacturers may begin selling replica cars that resemble vehicles produced at least 25 years ago now that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has finalized a regulation to implement the SEMA-led Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act. SEMA worked with Congress to pass this federal policy change, which became law in 2015 as part of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act.

The NHTSA has finalized a regulation to implement the SEMA-led Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act, enabling replica car businesses to produce and sell turnkey vehicles.

The replica car provision is historic, creating streamlined regulatory requirements for small automakers. Replica car businesses will now be able to produce and sell turnkey replicas to eager customers nationwide.

“SEMA applauds NHTSA’s final rule allowing companies to market classic-themed cars,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Regulatory barriers have previously prevented small automakers from producing heritage cars that are coveted by consumers. The roadblocks have been eliminated. This is a hard-fought victory for enthusiasts, small-volume manufacturers, their suppliers and all the men and women who will be hired to fill new jobs created by this law.”  

The replica car law and implementing regulations allow a low-volume manufacturer to construct up to 325 such replica cars a year subject to federal regulatory oversight. Replica cars resemble production vehicles manufactured at least 25 years ago—from ’30s roadsters to ’70s musclecars and more. Until now, the United States had just one system for regulating automobiles, which was designed for companies that mass-produce millions of vehicles. The new program recognizes the unique challenges faced by companies that produce a small number of custom cars.

The vehicles are required to meet current model-year emissions standards. In 2019, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued guidelines for installing engine packages from other EPA-certified vehicles, and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) issued a regulation for producing compliant engine packages. SEMA sued NHTSA in October 2019 to require the agency to issue regulations allowing the law to take effect. NHTSA issued a proposed rule in January 2020, but completion of the final rule was delayed during the presidential transition.

Low-volume vehicle manufacturers must first register with NHTSA, EPA and CARB before selling vehicles—a process that may take several months—and thereafter submit annual reports on vehicle production. Enthusiasts will still have the option to build a car from a kit, but now they may also purchase a turnkey replica car.

You can read the NHTSA final rule here.

 The SEMA Data Excellence designation recognizes the companies that have worked with SEMA Data to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets. Here are products from current SEMA Data members that have achieved data excellence.

TruXedo

SN ’19–’22 GMC Sierra 5'9" Bed Length

The all-new Sentry by TruXedo combines all the same great features of the Sentry CT but with an industrial-strength, leather-grain vinyl fabric. This hard roll-up truck bed cover features an Xtra-low profile. We have pressure bonded the vinyl fabric to heavy-duty aluminum slats making Sentry the ultimate in durability and security. When rolled up tightly at the cab, the cover provides full bed access without blocking rear-view visibility or the third brake light. When closed, the Sentry’s flush-mount profile delivers a sleek look that is sure to impress. An extra security latch is located toward the center of the cover for enhanced protection so you can rest in the fact that your cargo is safe and sound. Installation is quick and easy and does not require the use of special tools or drilling. The Sentry is made in the U.S.A. and comes backed by a three-year warranty.

Features:

• X15 rails are incorporated into the design providing a distinctive flush-mount look while enhancing the overall look of your truck.
• Mounts to the inside of the truck bed providing stake pocket access for additional truck customization.
• Heavy-duty matte black aluminum slats are pressure bonded to the fabric for additional strength and resiliency.
• Simply roll the cover closed to securely store and secure your cargo with confidence.
• Industrial-strength, UV-resistant, leather-grain vinyl fabric looks great in all conditions.
• No drilling or special tools required.
• A unique self-leveling design feature of these rails allows for a faster, more accurate installation.
• Made in the U.S.A.
• This “blacked-out” hard roll-up cover is sure to please the most discerning pickup truck enthusiast.
• An additional security latch, located toward the center of the truck bed, enhances the security of this cover.
• The entire cover can be removed in seconds, without tools, providing true 100% full bed access.

PN: 1574301
https://truxedo.com

Whiteline

Brace – Lower Control Arm

You can never have too much chassis stiffness. Weight aside, the more the better. Chassis bracing maintains alignment angles and spring rates by greatly reducing body or chassis flex. In fact, it helps every component in the suspension system do its job properly and you can feel the difference through improved turn-in, sharper steering response along with greater steering feedback.  

Features:

• Bracing maintains alignment angles and spring rates by greatly reducing body or chassis flex.
• Featuring premium polished alloy materials, Whiteline products not only make your vehicle handle better, but they look great, too.

PN: KSB706
https://whitelineperformance.com

BoostLine

Connecting Rod Audi 5-Cyl., 144.00 mm, ARP2000, Set of Five

BoostLine connecting rods are designed from the ground up for high-power forced induction and nitrous applications. A patented, three-pocket design, forged from premium 4340 steel, maximizes strength while minimizing rotating weight. This revolutionary design dramatically improves the rod’s big-end stability under tensile loads and provides a 60% improvement in bending strength and 20% stress reduction in tension compared to H-beam designs. All of these benefits make BoostLine rods ideal for high-cylinder pressure engine combinations.

Features:

• Purpose-built for boost.
• Forged from ultra-strong 4340 steel.
• Patented three-pocket design.
• Industry-leading ARP 2000 fasteners (Available in 625+ for sport compact and European applications).
• Detailed inspection report included.

PN: VW5670-787
https://boostlineproducts.com

Havoc Offroad

Spare Tire Carrier

The Havoc Tailgate Tire Carrier for ’07–’18 Wrangler JK features a cast-aluminum hinge casting designed to safely support a 37-in.-diameter tire, perfect for lifted Wrangler with oversized spares. The carrier’s main body is CNC laser cut from 3/16-in. and brake-formed giving it a brash, unrefined finish made for the roughest of terrain. An integrated hi-lift jack mount bolts to the swing arms eliminating the need for an accessory jack mount while our two-stage powdercoat offers superior UV protection and corrosion resistance. The reinforced design adds vital reinforcement to the factory tailgate and is compatible with stock and aftermarket bumpers making it the perfect tire carrier for your JK.

Features:

• Designed to allow up to a 37-in. tire.
• Compatible with stock or aftermarket bumpers.
• Includes antenna and bumper jack mount.
• CNC laser cut and brake formed 3/16-in. steel.
• Limited 5-year warranty.

PN: HPG-45-10001
https://havocoffroad.com

IAG Performance

Stage 2 CNC Ported EJ25 11mm Oil Pump for ’04–’21 STI, ’02–’14 WRX, ‘05–’12 LGT, ‘04–’13 FXT 

Each IAG Stage 2 oil pump starts life as an OEM spec 11mm oil pump, straight from Subaru. IAG completely disassembles the new oil pump including pulling the rotors, backing plate and pressure-relief valve. Next, the main body is fixtured in our in-house 5-Axis Centroid CNC machine where the inlet and outlet passageways are CNC ported. This allows for a larger, more consistent pathway for the oil into and out of the gerotor internals and helps to prevent cavitation. The oil pump outlet where it meets the engine block is also CNC “port matched” for a perfect transition into the engine block. The inlet and outlet sides of the gerotor are also opened up on the CNC mill to reduce inlet side cavitation and outlet side pressure drops. The pressure-relief valve piston is REM polished, which provides a non-directional, low Ra, polished finish. This reduces friction, heat and possibility of the relief valve piston galling and sticking—a common failure point on the OEM pumps. The piston is reinstalled and confirmed to operate correctly. The rotors are measured and checked to be within the manufacturer's specification—aka blueprinted, and installed next. The pump is then put together with a light coating of assembly lube to reduce friction and scuffing and aid in priming on first start up. Finally, the backing plate is installed. Loctite is added to the hardware, and each piece receives a painted mark after it is correctly torqued. The pump ships ready to install, with all hardware and seals required for installation.

Features:

• Intended for stock engines or stage 1 IAG engines.
• Shimmed and REM polished pressure-relief valve to increase oil pressure.
• Blueprinted and assembled, ships ready to install.
• 11mm oil pump rotors.
• CNC ported to maximize flow and pressure.

PN: IAG-ENG-2240
www.iagperformance.com

ST Suspensions

ST Adjustable Lowering Springs—Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 8-cylindar AWD With Electronic Dampers

Our ST Adjustable Lowering Springs allow seamlessly adjustable lowering on vehicles with or without electronically adjustable dampers. They essentially turn any standard suspension into a coilover kit. Our new ST Adjustable Lowering Springs are now available for a variety of makes and models. The innovative ST threaded sleeve provides perfect fitment no matter if your car is equipped with standard shocks or an electronically adaptive damping system. With our ST Adjustable Lowering Springs, it’s easy to convert your stock suspension into a height adjustable system. Similar to coilover kits, the ST Adjustable Lowering Springs allow a seamless ride height adjustment for your vehicle in reasonable lowering ranges. We supply vehicle-specific dust protection and spring components that are designed to give you the most out of your lowering. With ST Adjustable Lowering Springs you can expect a dynamic and sporty driving experience. At ST suspensions, your driving experience is the focus when it comes to our products. That is why we select vehicle specific spring rates in each ST Adjustable Lowering Spring kit to perfectly match your original dampers. Our Adjustable Lowering Springs are made from chrome silicon steel to guarantee a long-lasting and quality driving experience. You will not only benefit from a lowered center of gravity and more direct handling but also improved steering and more stability during cornering. ST suspensions springs are constructed to OEM-quality standards. They are made of high-strength chrome silicon steel in a cold winding process then multi-tempered and have a final epoxy coating. This process helps resistance to different weather conditions. The high-strength ST spring steel also ensures that our ST springs are block resistant and the springs do not sag.

Features:

• Made in Germany.
• ST adjustable lowering springs transform your standard suspension into a coilover, and you can continue to use your electronic damper adjustment if the car is equipped with it.
• Springs made of chrome-silicon steel guarantee a more direct driving experience thanks to their application specific spring rates.
• Improved looks thanks to the lower ride height.
• Individually height adjustable like a traditional coilover.
• Limited Lifetime Warranty—Unlimited Mileage.

PN: 27329005
www.stsuspensions.com

By Kyle Cheng

The conflict in Ukraine has dominated headlines over the last week, leading to volatility in the commodity and equity markets. The direct impact on the U.S. market is limited, but geopolitical concerns create uncertainty that could impact growth.

According to the most recent “SEMA Industry Indicators” report, the spread of the virus is slowing rapidly and economic activity such as air travel and dining is coming back quickly.

Outside of the Ukraine-related uncertainty, the U.S. economy is holding up well. The spread of the virus is slowing rapidly and economic activity such as air travel and dining is coming back quickly. GDP growth should look good in the coming months.

Consumers are concerned about rising costs and the impact it may have on purchasing power. However, the Federal Reserve is expected to begin raising interest rates in March to attack inflation—although the conflict in Europe may mean they raise rates more slowly.

Want more information on the trends affecting the specialty-equipment industry? Check out the “SEMA Industry Indicators” report each month to learn how movements in the broader economy may impact your business strategy. In this report, published monthly, you’ll get a snapshot of the overall economy and our industry, including:

• Overall economic outlook.
• New-vehicle sales and statistics on auto-parts production.
• Consumer sentiment and spending.
• Economic growth and unemployment.
• Other important industry insights.

To learn more, download the February “SEMA Industry Indicators” report, now available for free at www.sema.org/research.

Also from SEMA Market Research:

SEMA Future Trends—January 2022: In this report, SEMA Market Research provides its outlook for 2022 and beyond for the overall economy, the global supply chain, and the specialty-equipment industry. This report also includes a deep dive into changing consumer demographics and its potential implications for the aftermarket in the future.

By Ashley Reyes

As more people adopt EVs as their daily drivers and become comfortable with the technology, requests for swaps and EV builds will increase. Professional builders receiving these requests and those interested in commissioning a build must have the background knowledge necessary to take on the project and make informed decisions.

SEMA members are invited to learn the main aspects and challenges of swapping electric drivetrains into classic cars during a live webinar, March 23, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT).

Attendees will learn:

• The main components of the EV drivetrain, as well as the available types, both new and used.
• Difficulties in converting to EV.
• Where to start when interested in EV conversions.

Participants leave more equipped to execute a swap in various types of vehicles and learn cautionary lessons that Bream has learned over the years. This is also a great opportunity to connect with the leader of one the first companies to commercialize EV swaps, ask questions, and hear EV West’s robust solution for do it yourself and specialty shops.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

The government plays a critical role in any industry. Businesses are impacted by subsidies, taxes and regulations. Elected officials often determine future laws. The wheel and tire industry is not immune to the impact of government.

From tax credits for small businesses to laws that impact the way wheel and tire products are made, distributed and marketed, and even the impact of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) overreach, the wheel and tire industry is impacted by government actions. The current RPM Act is a perfect reason for you to understand how this affects the wheel and tire industry.  

SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) members are invited to learn how they can work with elected officials to help their businesses, and why it’s important to fight for the passage of the RPM Act now during a live webinar, March 17, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT).  

Dan Ingber, SEMA vice president of SEMA government and legal affairs, and John Hotchkis, president at Hotchkis Performance and SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC) chair, will explain:  

• What the SEMA PAC is.
• How the SEMA PAC helps to ensure that elected officials support our industry.
• What the new SEMA Individual Membership is, and how it helps defend your automotive rights.
• The importance of bills such as the RPM Act, and why it matters to wheel and tire companies.

While you’re busy managing your business, SEMA’s government affairs office in Washington, D.C., is advocating to protect the industry and your business. This webinar will guide you on state and federal regulations, and the opportunity to make your voice heard on relevant issues that may affect your business.

Register here.