SEMA News - November 2010

Rep. Grace Napolitano and Rep. Joe Donnelly Meet With SEMA Members in Their Home Districts

By Dan Sadowski

	From left: SEMA Vice President of Councils and Membership Nathan Ridnouer; Egge Machine Co. Owner Bob Egge; Rep. Grace Napolitano; Egge Machine Co. CEO Ernie Silvers; SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting; and SEMA Congressional Affairs Manager Dan Sadowski.

Members of Congress leave Washington in August to spend time in their home districts. This “district work period” provides a chance for elected officials to meet with their constituents and discuss issues of local importance. Two SEMA-member companies took advantage of their representatives’ proximity this summer. Through its Congressional District Site Visit Program, SEMA arranged for two U.S. representatives to meet with SEMA members, tour their facilities and see firsthand the positive economic impact our industry has on local communities. 

SEMA-member Egge Machine Co. and Speed Shop in Santa Fe Springs, California, hosted Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (D-CA) for a factory tour and informational briefing with the company’s employees. CEO Ernie Silvers and Owner Bob Egge provided the congresswoman with an overview of the products made by the company and the markets in which they sell. Founded in 1915, Egge Machine is a piston manufacturer that specializes in domestic vehicle applications from the early 1900s–1980.

Rep. Napolitano was elected in 1998 and is serving her sixth term in Congress. Prior to her election to the House, Napolitano was a member of the Norwalk City Council and a member of the California State Assembly. Rep. Napolitano is a strong advocate for America’s industrial base. She started a manufacturing task force in her home district, which is comprised of various small- and mid-size companies. The task force examines key issues and pursues strategies to foster more jobs and create a positive climate for manufacturing retention and growth.

	Ernie Silvers provides Rep. Grace Napolitano with an in-depth tour of Egge’s machine shop and foundry.

Rep. Napolitano met with employees during the tour and observed the casting of custom aluminum pistons and the daily operation of the machine shop. “Manufacturers and small businesses like Egge are the backbone of our economy, both locally and nationwide,” Napolitano said after the event. “Visiting local businesses and meeting their employees underscore their importance.”

Attendees to the event included SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting; Vice President of Membership and Councils Nathan Ridnouer; and Congressional Affairs Manager Dan Sadowski. They joined with Egge employees in a lively discussion of current issues before Congress. Topics included pending legislation to provide small businesses with access to low-interest loans, extend bonus depreciation to allow companies to immediately write-off 50% of the cost of new equipment and renew the research and development tax credit.

“We appreciate the time Rep. Napolitano spent with our employees,” Silvers said. “The Congressional District Site Visit program provides an invaluable opportunity for elected officials to learn how important SEMA companies are in their communities.”

SEMA staff also traveled to Elkhart, Indiana, to help coordinate a visit with Congressman Joe Donnelly (D-IN) at the Midwest headquarters of Truck Accessories Group (TAG), parent company of Leer and other brands. Rep. Donnelly is a new member of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, having joined during the 2010 SEMA Washington Rally.

From left: SEMA Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs Stuart Gosswein; Jim Wrobleski and Co. Vice President of Operations Dave Wrobleski; Truck Accessories Group (TAG) Chief Financial Officer Dave Beckman; Rep. Joe Donnelly; TAG President and Chief Operating Officer Joe Donohue; TAG Vice President Sales and Marketing Dennis DeLeonard; TAG Midwest General Manager Mohammad Motamedi; and SEMA Congressional Affairs Manager Dan Sadowski outside TAG Midwest’s Elkhart, Indiana, headquarters.

Rep. Donnelly was elected in 2006 and is serving his second term in Congress. Prior to his election to the House, Rep. Donnelly was an attorney and also the owner of Marking Solutions, a small-business printing and rubber stamp company. He served on the Indiana State Election Board from 1997–2001 and currently serves on the House Financial Services Committee and the Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

TAG produces truck caps, tonneau covers, retractable truck bed covers and aluminum and plastic automotive components. TAG offers automotive solutions that range from design and engineering to mold-making, fabrication, assembly, painting and shipping. The company’s products are marketed by hundreds of independent distributors throughout the United States, Canada and beyond.

Rep. Donnelly’s visit began with a roundtable discussion with TAG senior executives, including President and COO Joe Donohue, Chief Financial Officer Mike Beckman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Dennis DeLeonard and TAG Midwest’s General Manager Mohammad Motamedi. Rep. Donnelly was already quite familiar with TAG’s product line and the market for automotive accessories since his district includes many recreational and utility vehicle manufacturers as well.

“Manufacturing drives the economy in north-central Indiana,” said Rep. Donnelly. “I’m proud to represent tens of thousands of employees of the automotive manufacturing industry, and I believe it is important that companies such as TAG are provided with every opportunity to expand and develop new products.”

	Rep. Joe Donnelly at TAG’s Elkhart facility, taking a hands-on approach to learning more about the impact of SEMA member companies on the local economy.

After the discussion, Donohue led the congressman on a tour of TAG’s new fiberglass fabrication facility. On the tour, Rep. Donnelly observed the production, painting and finishing of truck caps and bedliners. At several points, Donnelly stopped to visit with employees and ask questions. The tour provided a unique behind-the-scenes look at the final stage of TAG’s production line.

“We are pleased to have had the opportunity to provide Rep. Donnelly with a glimpse of the development of our products,” Donohue said. “Given the current economic climate and the changing needs of SEMA-member companies, it is important for our elected officials to understand the positive impact of our industry and the potential
for expansion.”

The Congressional District Site Visit Program is overseen by SEMA’s government affairs office in Washington, D.C. The program allows SEMA members to raise the visibility of the industry on Capitol Hill by connecting lawmakers with their constituents in their home districts. If you are interested in hosting an event at your facility with your federal elected officials, please contact Congressional Affairs Manager Dan Sadowski via e-mail at dans@sema.org or by calling 202/783-6007 x19.  

SEMA News - November 2010 By Drew Hardin Photo Courtesy Source Interlink Media Archives The whole world went a little lunar crazy in the second half of 1969, and for good reason: NASA’s Apollo program sent astronauts to the moon—twice. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy predicted that we would land a man on the moon by the end of the decade, and in July 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made that promise a reality. Just a few months later, in November, Pete Conrad and Alan Bean would also leave boot prints on the moon’s gray, powdery surface. So it’s no wonder that the 1970 SEMA Show, held at the Anaheim Convention Center in January, had NASA’s accomplishments as an underlying theme. Conrad was scheduled to appear at the Show to receive SEMA’s first honorary membership, but he was bed-ridden with the flu. So SEMA President Roy Richter, with an assist from Ray Brock, phoned Conrad during the SEMA banquet and read him the words engraved on the plaque in his honor (inset photo).

Of course, no one was better suited to take advantage of the lunar frenzy than Dean Moon, whose SEMA Show booth was appropriately decorated for the occasion. According to the March 1970 issue of Hot Rod Industry News, the 1970 SEMA Show was the “greatest of all time,” with 7,110 registrants and 1,500 VIP guests perusing the wares in 481 booths. “Quality and strength of products seemed to be more in emphasis than in the past with each manufacturer trying to make as perfect (and safe) a product as humanly possible,” said the magazine. NASA, too, was aiming for results “as perfect (and safe) as humanly possible”—a challenge brought sharply into focus three months after the SEMA Show. That’s when the Apollo 13 mission went awry, and the world, once again, turned its attention to the moon.

SEMA News - November 2010

	Rick Rollins, owner of Rollins Performance and current SEMA Chairman of the Board

Ramco Performance Filters Purchased by Rollins Performance

Rick Rollins, owner of Rollins Performance and current SEMA Chairman of the Board, purchased the assets of Ramco Performance Manufacturing, a manufacturer of extreme-performance fuel filters for diesel, gasoline, ethanol and methanol alcohol fuels. Rollins’ new company, Filter Solutions Technologies LLC, dba FST Performance, has moved Ramco from North Dakota to Florida. The company’s specialty is low-restriction, high-fuel-flow capabilities (300 gph) coupled with highly efficient three- and five-micron filtration and water separation. FST Performance filters are highly regarded as the leader in biodiesel filtration and in the off-shore powerboat industries.

More information is available online at www.ramcoperformance.com.

 

 

  

Tire Dealers See Real Value in the SEMA Show

	For the 2009 SEMA Show, more than 9,800 buyers in all categories noted that they were interested in wheels and tires, and nearly 20,000 buyers cited an overall interest in tire- and wheel-related products.

Nearly 10% of total buyers at the 2009 SEMA Show were specifically tire and wheel buyers, which was the second-largest buyer category of Show attendees. And that percentage has been rising. Just 7% of all buyers were tire and wheel buyers in 2005, but the number has climbed gradually every year since.

Tires have a broader appeal at the SEMA Show than just endemic segment buyers. More than 9,800 buyers in all categories noted that they were interested specifically in wheels and tires, while nearly 20,000 buyers cited an overall interest in tire- and wheel-related products.

Aside from tire and wheel dealers, the strongest interest in tires came from tire wholesalers and WDs, performance retailers, restoration businesses and auto parts retailers—who were also the most interested in tire and wheel products debuting in the New Products Showcase.

But the core tire dealers are the story here, and they represent the top of the tire-buying influence and decision making, as determined by the trade media covering the industry. Nearly 60 of Modern Tire Dealer magazine’s top 100 dealers came to the 2009 SEMA Show as buyers. Likewise, of the tire chains that made Tire Business’ list of the top 100 chains, 66 came to the 2009 SEMA Show looking to buy.

To view all of the tire exhibitors in the SEMA Show Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA, or to register for the 2010 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

 

 

		While each contender comes with its own unique list of accolades, it will ultimately be the booth vehicle that is most prevalent at the 2010 SEMA Show that receives the inaugural SEMA Award. Current Contenders: Hottest Car Audi A4 Chevrolet Camaro Dodge Challenger Ford Fiesta Ford Mustang Honda CR-Z Hyundai Sonata Kia Soul Lexus IS Mazda2 Scion tC Subaru Impreza Hottest Truck Chevrolet Silverado Dodge Ram Ford F-Series Toyota Tundra Hottest 4x4-SUV Ford Explorer Jeep Grand Cherokee Jeep Wrangler Subaru Outback Toyota FJ Cruiser

New Industry Award to Debut at the 2010 SEMA Show

SEMA Show exhibitors will choose three outstanding vehicles as the winners of an all-new award. Called simply the SEMA Award, the honor will be presented in three categories—Hottest Car, Hottest Truck and Hottest 4x4-SUV. The SEMA Award marks the first time ever that the “exhibitors’ choice” will be tallied, recognizing the year’s top trend-setting vehicles.

“The SEMA Award allows us to celebrate the outstanding vehicles and trends in the specialty-parts industry,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “We will be able to tap into the exhibitors’ unique ability to identify what’s hot just as the trends are gaining momentum.”

To determine the winners of the SEMA Award, Show organizers will survey every booth vehicle at the SEMA Show taking place in Las Vegas Tuesday–Friday, November 2–5, 2010. The most prominent vehicles in three categories—car, truck and 4x4-SUV—will be named winners of the award.

“While the concept is new, it really is based on a phenomenon that we’ve experienced many times before,” said Kersting. “There seemed to be a handful of vehicle models each year that set the tone for the Show—vehicles that were so popular, it seemed they were dominating at the event.”

With more than 1,500 exhibiting companies each year, the SEMA Show typically includes more than 700 qualified booth vehicles.

Modifications range from products that improve performance, safety and convenience to those that enhance appearance and comfort.

A panel of industry experts has identified the vehicles that are most likely to be in the running to win the SEMA Award in each category.

Several indicators were used to select the contenders, including pre-registrations of feature vehicles, involvement in one or more SEMA/OEM collaboration programs and coverage in enthusiast publications.

“The contenders have proven themselves to be significant in the industry,” said Kersting. “Each contender is noteworthy, whether because of its sales record, previous interest from the industry or from exhibitors, existing accolades or simply the buzz that has surrounded the vehicle.”

While each contender comes with its own unique list of accolades, it will ultimately be the booth vehicle that is the prevelant at the 2010 SEMA Show that receives the inaugural SEMA Award.

Winners will be announced during the 2010 SEMA Show in the South Hall, booth #30239 on Tuesday, November 2, at 12:00pm.

Fast Facts

Cary Chouinard was named Mast Motorsport’s manufacturing manager and the new director of its cylinder head and valvetrain division. According to a company release, Chouinard played a pivotal role in the startup and success of ET Cylinder Head’s products and founded Performance Induction Specialties. He will turn over his sales responsibilities to Mast Motorsport’s dedicated sales team to focus solely on new-product development and cylinder head production. Mast Motorsports, Nacogdoches, TX; 936/560-2218.

Borla Performance Industries announced the merger of TWM Induction into the Borla Performance group of companies. According to a release, the merger enables the two companies to leverage their collective 60 years of experience to design, manufacture, market and sell induction and exhaust systems worldwide. TWM Induction, originally based in Goleta, California, has moved into the 320,000-sq.-ft. headquarters of Borla Performance, located in Johnson City, Tennessee. A joint operation named Borla Induction will soon launch, introducing a new line of late-model products. Borla, Johnson City, TN;
423/979-4000.

Publishing Group of America appointed John Cobb III as chief executive officer. Cobb has a longstanding career leading the development of large-scale, multimedia properties for Peterson Publishing, EMAP, Primedia and Source Interlink Media, where he most recently served as senior vice president, digital, overseeing 100-plus web properties. Cobb succeeds Dick Porter, who is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) named Mobil 1 as the official oil of the SCCA. All SCCA members will receive a 20% discount on purchases at www.mobilracingstore.com as part of the agreement, and competitors using Mobil 1 products are eligible for a sizable contingency program at the 2010 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by Subway at Road America. Sports Car Club of America, Topeka, KS; 785/357-7222.

	Pete Meier

The Advanstar Automotive Group named Pete Meier its group technical editor. Meier, an ASE Certified Master Auto Technician and 2006 Carquest/Mobile Air Conditioning Society AC Technician of the Year, has contributed to Motor Age since 2005. Meier is a sponsoring member of International Automotive Technicians’ Network and a trained vocational instructor. He is certified by both the National Association of Trade and Technical Schools and the school system of Polk County, Florida. Advanstar Automotive, Woodland Hills, CA; 818/593-5000.

CV Products hired Mike Newcomb as a technical sales representative. Based out of Thomasville, North Carolina, Newcomb will work to expand business to the short-track asphalt market by working closely with engine builders and racers in the United States. Newcomb spent the past four years with Five Star Racing Bodies. CV Products, Thomasville, NC; 336/472-2242.

Hotchkis Performance moved into a larger facility in Santa Fe Springs, California, a move that the company reports increases its production and new-product development opportunities. In addition to a large customer installation center, the move brought together several offices under one roof and provides larger work bays, engineering suites, shipping and receiving areas and warehouse space. Hotchkis Performance, Santa Fe Springs, CA; 562/907-7757.

RimTyme announced that five of its employees have passed the SEMA Z5 Custom Wheel & Tire certification exam. The credential acknowledges Elijah Dickerson, Jeremy Hankins, Robert Blake, Sean Barnes and Taylor Jones as certified installation specialists. The certification establishes benchmarks for employee knowledge and competence. RimTyme, Plano, TX; 972/403-4901.

Pirelli Tire appointed Nick Heidfeld its Formula 1 test driver to test sample versions of its P Zero Formula 1 tire. The tire, which Heidfeld put to task behind the wheel of a Toyota TF109, will be used by all Formula 1 teams beginning in 2011 under a three-year agreement with the FIA. Pirelli Tire North America, Rome, GA; 800/747-3554.

R&R Marketing Consultants Inc. added Rob Kearns to its sales team. He will cover the Southwest and mountain states, including Denver, where he resides. The company also announced that Gunnar Smith is the newest service representative in the Midwest region. Both Kearns and Smith join Josh Forster as new members of the R&R team. Forster is based in Southern California and focuses on retail sales. R&R Marketing Consultants Inc., San Francisco, CA; 650/588-3404.

For the third consecutive year, Inc. 500 has recognized Classic Instruments as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies. Owner John McLeod stated, “Working in an industry you love with the greatest team you could ask for and being able to work in the most beautiful place in the world (Boyne City, Michigan) is a grand slam. I am very proud to be included in such a hard-working group, and I owe it all to my family, employees and community.” Classic Instruments, Boyne City, MI; 231/582-0461

	Bob Mylenek

Tākit, formerly IFW, announced that Bob Mylenek was named the company’s new customer service manager for its BedSlide brand. Mylenek’s experience spans more than 30 years in business management and operations as well as customer service and marketing with Mercedes-Benz. Tākit, Medford, OR; 888/807-0099.

O’Reilly Automotive Inc. has signed an agreement for a portion of its brake drum and rotor business with Affinia Group. Affinia Group has served as a vendor partner with O’Reilly Automotive for more than 26 years, including the Wix brand of filtration products. O’Reilly Automotive, Springfield, MO; 417/862-2674.

Eight-time American Motorcyclist Association Supercross champion Jeremy McGrath was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America on August 25 during a gala black-tie ceremony at the Fillmore Detroit Theatre. McGrath is currently listed 19th in points in both the Pro4 Unlimited and Pro2 Unlimited divisions of the Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series—a series of 16 closed/short-course stadium-style off-road races held on specially designed and constructed tracks in the western United States.

Valspar has opened a new office for its consumer division. The new location, which includes the sales and marketing staffs for PlastiKote, is located at 8725 W. Higgins Road in Chicago, minutes from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.

Advanced Clutch Technology hired Rich Barsamian as national sales manager. He is responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives to grow the company’s product business. Barsamian served as vice president for Grant Products and worked as national sales manager for Edelbrock. He is also a member of SEMA’s Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council Select Committee and the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Committee. Advanced Clutch Technology, Lancaster, CA; 661/940-7555.

Motorz TV, produced by Duke Networks, announced that it has selected Martin & Co. Advertising as its exclusive sales partner. According to a recent press release, both companies cite their dedication to recognizing the changes and fluctuations in marketing automotive products to the aftermarket as the basis for a natural partnership. Duke Networks, San Diego, CA; 858/935-7300. 

SEMA-member Inland Empire Drive Line Service Inc. was selected the manufacturer of the year by the National Street Rod Association (NSRA). Inland Empire Driveline Service began in 1981 as a conventional driveshaft repair shop serving the Ontario, California, auto repair and heavy trucking industries. The company says that the same commitment remains today as when it started: to provide top-quality products and service on a prompt and courteous basis at a competitive price. Inland Empire Drive Line Service Inc. Ontario, CA; 909/390-3030. National Street Rod Association, Memphis, TN; 901/452-4030.

SEMA News - November 2010

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.  

 

2012 Acura TL

When It Hits: Production has been bumped up to September in order to have models available in showrooms by late spring or early summer 2011.

What Priddy Says: Due for a mid-cycle redesign for 2012, the TL could possibly receive Acura’s new six-speed automatic transmission to replace the aging five-speed. There’s also a possibility that it will receive one of the new family of V6s that Honda is working on.

 

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

When It Hits: All signs point to the ’12 Grand Cherokee SRT8 being available at dealerships late in 2011 as a 2012 model.

What Priddy Says: Looks like any burly V8 mill with a modern-day intake manifold, right? But this one is expected to make around 480 hp and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. The new Hemi is also rumored to link with a ZF-designed eight-speed automatic transmission.

 

2012 BMW 1-Series 

When It Hits: The next-gen 1 Series is expected to debut next year as a ’12 model, but no word if the three-door will be in the mix.

What Priddy Says: Don’t be fooled by the fake seam line indicating a rear passenger door. This is, in fact, a three-door hatchback version of the next-generation BMW 1-Series.

 

Subaru FT-86 STI Coupe

When It Hits: Sources are mixed regarding the on-sale date for the FT-86. Some sources say it should be ready near the end of 2011; others say that setbacks have pushed the FT-86 to 2013.

What Priddy Says: This car, a joint project between Subaru and Toyota, is peppered with speculation. The chassis should be a modified Legacy type. It’s expected to be a 2+2 configuration with a 2.0L rear-wheel-drive powertrain and independent suspension. A 2.5L turbocharged mill is also likely.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

 

SEMA News - November 2010

By Steve McDonald

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

STATE UPDATE

California Scrappage:

SEMA submitted comments to the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) in opposition to a proposed rule to increase the number of eligible vehicles for scrappage programs. The proposal would allow consumers to scrap any vehicle at any time for any reason by expanding the scope of the program, which currently only allows for the retirement of on-cycle vehicles that have failed their biennial required smog check in the year they are seeking to participate. The new rule would also provide an exception to the current prohibition on participation by unregistered vehicles, permitting their retirement if the owners can prove that the vehicles have been driven primarily in California for the previous
two years. This provision would unfairly allow owners not paying registration fees, which fund the program, to be permitted to benefit from the program. Included in the proposed rule is a new voucher program to be operated in the San Joaquin Air Pollution Control District and the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The voucher program would provide additional incentives for vehicle owners to scrap their older vehicles by providing them with funds to purchase new vehicles. BAR has stated that its intention is to provide $2,000 or $2,500 vouchers to qualifying consumers. In addition to potentially scrapping classic vehicles, the new program would also prohibit restorers from getting their hands on component parts from the vehicles. Dismantlers are not allowed to remove any parts from vehicles they have purchased through this program for resale or reuse unless specifically allowed by BAR through contract.

California Tire Pressure Checks:

Effective September 1, 2010, all California automobile service providers are required to check tire pressures for every vehicle weighing less than 10,000 lbs. being maintained or repaired at their facilities. The regulation, issued by the California Air Resources Board, applies to auto maintenance/repair providers but not to auto parts distributors/retailers, auto body/paint facilities, auto glass installers or wreckers/dismantlers. The rule is intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with under-inflated tires. Service providers are required to check and inflate the tires to the recommended tire-pressure rating. The provider must note on the invoice that the tire inflation service was completed and then keep a copy of the service invoice for at least three years.

Massachusetts Street Rods/Custom Vehicles:
 
A version of SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration classification for street rods, custom vehicles, replicas and specially constructed vehicles was signed into law by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. The new law defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. A replica vehicle is defined as assembled by a non-manufacturer from new or used parts that replicate an earlier year, make and model vehicle. Specially constructed vehicles are those reconstructed or assembled by a non-manufacturer from new or used parts that have an exterior that does not replicate or resemble any other manufactured vehicle. The law allows a replica vehicle to be assigned a certificate of title bearing both the year in which the vehicle was built and the make, model and year of the vehicle intended to be replicated. Under the new law, street rods and custom vehicles are exempted from emissions inspection requirements. In a compromise made with the state air-quality regulators, the measure also provides that specially constructed and replica vehicles that are registered on or before April 30, 2012, will be exempted from emissions inspection requirements. Specially constructed and replica vehicles registered after April 30, 2012, will be subject to emissions control requirements based on the model year and configuration of the engine installed, whether the engine is an original-equipment manufacturer’s production engine, a rebuilt engine or a crate engine.

North Carolina Scrappage:

SEMA-opposed legislation that would have implemented a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old died when the legislature adjourned for the year. Under the program, each participant would have received around $1,000–$1,500 to scrap a car and purchase a current-year vehicle under 10,000 lbs., or one from the previous three model years. The bill stipulated that the participant’s family income must be less than 300% of the current federal poverty level. All trade-in vehicles would have been subject to scrappage, regardless of their historical value or
collector interest.

Wisconsin Imported Collector Cars:

SEMA is opposing a proposed regulation issued by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (Chapter Trans 123) to prohibit the registration of imported vehicles manufactured after 1967 that do not meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). U.S. law specifically exempts imported vehicles that are 25 years old and older from these safety standards. Trans 123 offers no such reasonable exemption. The regulation permits the continued registration of subject vehicles that are already legally registered in Wisconsin, but only until they are transferred to a new owner. The rule is currently under review by the Senate and Assembly Transportation Committees, which have until September 10, 2010, to raise an objection. 

FEDERAL UPDATE

Bank Loans and Bonus Depreciation:

The U.S. Congress is scheduled to vote on a SEMA-supported bill to provide smaller banks with access to $30 billion in funds intended to be loaned to small businesses. The legislation would also extend the bonus depreciation through 2010. In 2008 and 2009, all businesses were permitted to immediately write off 50% of the cost of new equipment (“bonus depreciation”). The Senate bill would also expand and extend the Section 179 program, allowing companies to write off up to $500,000 in capital expenditures in tax years 2010 and 2011, double the current limit for 2010. SEMA is urging Congress to eliminate a requirement that businesses issue 1099 forms to all vendors from whom they buy more than $600 of goods or services in any year.

Horizontal Mergers:

The Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission revised the “Horizontal Merger Guidelines” to reflect changes in the way mergers are reviewed since the guides were last revised in 1992. Horizontal mergers are defined as mergers between two or more companies with similar product lines. The guides help antitrust regulators from the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission evaluate the likely competitive impact of mergers, distinguishing between potentially harmful mergers versus mergers that will be competitively beneficial or will likely have no competitive impact on the marketplace. The 2010 guidelines are different from the 1992 guidelines in several important ways. For example, the guidelines clarify that merger analysis does not use a single methodology but is a fact-specific process through which the agencies use a variety of tools to analyze the evidence to determine whether a merger may substantially lessen competition. The guides also include a section on “Evidence of Adverse Competitive Effects,” which provides examples of evidence that the agencies have found informative in predicting the likely competitive effects of mergers.

Unfair Trade Practices:

The U.S. Department of Commerce unveiled 14 proposals to strengthen the enforcement of U.S. trade laws. The measures would focus on illegal import practices from non-market economies by tightening U.S. rules governing antidumping (AD) and countervailing duties (CVD). “Dumping” is when a manufacturer in one country exports a product to another country at a price that is below its production costs or the price charged in its home market. “Countervailing duties” are imposed when a foreign country is found to be subsidizing its exports and injuring the importing country’s domestic producers. Non-market economies such as China’s could face higher duties as a result of some of the Commerce Department’s proposed changes. A number of practices to calculate production costs would be tightened or clarified. Individual companies from a foreign country would not be excused from AD/CVD duties if they demonstrate that they were not dumping or receiving subsidies for three consecutive years. Rather, they would still receive a zero dumping rate but remain within the countrywide order until that is removed. Additionally, the Commerce Department would require importers to post cash deposits rather than bonds for imports that fall within the scope of an AD/CVD investigation, beginning with the issuance of a preliminary determination.  

SEMA News - November 2010

 

Atech Motorsports Get all of your high-performance, race, truck, powersports, street-rod, restoration, marine and stock replacement parts needs fulfilled at Atech Motorsports. Atech is constantly adding new lines and parts to its huge in-stock inventory—all at the lowest prices and backed by a Beat-a-Price guarantee, fast shipping, expert advice and the best customer service. Call Atech Motorsports at 1-800-517-1040 or go online at AtechMotorsports.com today and get the Parts you need! Prices you want! Service you deserve! Atech Motorsports Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–8:00 pm ET 800/517-1040 www.AtechMotorsports.com Fax: 330/630-5365 1234 Southeast Ave. Tallmadge, OH 44278
Century Truck Caps  Century (SEMA booth #31095) will let dealers and prospects get their hands on the Cargo Cover Tonneau. Show attendees who get “up-close-and personal” with the “CC” will see what Century Dealers have been raving about: re-engineered and simplified hardware that makes Cargo Cover installations simple, consistent and quick. And, dealers will see how the engineering breakthrough was accomplished without changing the styling profile that made the Cargo Cover famous. Visit www.centurycaps.com for complete Century product information or contact 800/828-2277 to find out how Century products can help add to your bottom line.
Chase ’Em Back Tools Damaged or rusted threads? Hinged split-die thread-repairing tools. The patented design of these tools allows the user to wrap around the threads and reverse or chase back the damaged threads. This tool will not hurt the integrity of the bolt or stud and produces a perfectly repaired thread. Each individual tool is made of Rockwell hardened tool steel. Single dies and complete kits are available. For trucks and trailers. SAE and Metric fine and coarse threads. 707/279-9346 www.chaseembacktools.com
Evans Cooling Evans Waterless Cooling Systems offers the only 100% waterless engine coolants available. NPG waterless engine coolants provide superior engine temperature control by extending cooling system performance. Eliminate boil-over, electrolysis, scaling, corrosion, and pump cavitation. Evans NPG waterless engine coolants are lifetime engine coolants and essentially non-toxic. Evans has the right coolant for street cars to tractor trailers. To maximize cooling performance Evans offers custom manufactured aluminum radiators, high performance coolant pumps and engine cooling accessories. www.evanscooling.com 888/990-Cool
Flaming River The Flaming River catalog includes everything you need to find the perfect replacement steering component for your street rod, musclecar, drag racer or off-road vehicle! Flaming River offers a full line of tilt steering columns, steering wheels and adapters, manual and power rack-and-pinions, steering boxes and pumps, universal joints and shafting and much more. To request a catalog, call toll-free at 800/648-8022 or visit www.flamingriver.com.
Flaming River FR40022—Universal Billet-Power Front Steer Power Rack-and-Pinion, Retail: $659 FR40020—Universal Billet-Power Rear Steer Power Rack-and-Pinion, Retail: $699 Our Universal Power Rack-and-Pinions are available in front steer or rear steer and feature precision-machined billet aluminum mounts to retrofit to virtually any vehicle application—plus, adjustable pinions to improve universal joint angle. They feature a blue powdercoat design, all-new components, braided stainless pressure lines and a stronger rack shaft. Each rack is pressure and fluid tested after assembly to ensure quality and performance and comes with lifetime serviceability. Made in the U.S.A. Flaming River Industries 800 Poertner Dr., Berea, OH 44017 www.flamingriver.com
Jurassic Shark Racing Apparel for Ravenous Racers Jurassic Shark is proud to introduce a new line of racing apparel focused on race fans. Jurassic Shark is a unique and exclusive product line that is constantly evolving into new ideas and new designs, and we offer a Wholesale Program with double-digit profit built in! Custom orders available. Please contact us for more information: Jurassic Shark P.O. Box 61 Hatboro, PA 19040 267/736-7991 sales@jurassicshark.com www.jurassicshark.com
Leer In LEER booth #31095, visitors will be treated to an improved version of the LEER 550 Tonneau that incorporates a list of enhancements LEER dealers and their customers suggested. As one of the industry giants, with a history of leadership in tonneau styling, LEER doesn’t make changes often, so when they do, it’s a significant event that can be counted on to give dealers new and powerful money-making opportunities. Visit www.leer.com for complete LEER product information or to obtain information on becoming a LEER dealer.
Mid America Motorworks Pursue your passion here. Our FREE, full-color catalog covers every year Corvette: ’53–’2011 (C1–C6). The catalog includes restoration, maintenance, interiors and performance parts, plus car care products, Corvette clothing and lifestyle accessories. Everything you need to make your Corvette and you unique! FREE. Call 866/521-9929 or shop www.mamotorworks.com/corvette (mention code: SE10).
MGP Caliper Covers MGP Caliper Covers is now offering a carbon fiber hydrographic finish available for the entire product line. MGP Caliper Covers are manufactured in the U.S.A. and feature 6061-T6 aluminum, TIG welds and a patented stainless steel fastening system. Additional options include color-matched paint as well as licensed and custom engravings. For more information, please visit us at SEMA Booth #48123 MGP Caliper Covers www.calipercovers.com info@calipercovers.com 877/995-0003
Pace Edwards The Retractable Utility Bed Cover from Pace Edwards is designed specifically for utility truck beds. Pace Edwards is the only manufacturer to offer a retractable cover with an electric or manual feature. Made from black powercoated rigid aluminum panels sealed by patented silicone hinges, the cover can be retracted partially or completely into a canister at the front of the bed. For more information on the Pace Edwards product line, visit www.pace-edwards.com or call 800/338-3697. (SEMA Booth #31095)
Pro Ryde Suspension Winner SEMA 2009 BEST NEW OFF-ROAD/4x4 PRODUCT! Take CONTROL. Every ProRYDE Leveling Kit incorporates an adjustable feature that puts you in control; front-to-rear, side-to-side. YOU decide the ride height and get the leveling result you’re looking for…every time. Available for GM, Ford, Dodge, Nissan and Toyota. ProRYDE Suspension Systems See us at SEMA Booth #30163 www.ProRYDE.com 888/813-RYDE (7933)
ProRyde Suspension NEW! 2010–2011 Toyota 4Runner ADJUSTABLE Leveling Kit ProRYDE’s patent-pending LIFTmachine Adjustable Leveling Kit provides front ride height changes of 2.0”, 2.5” or 3.0”…YOU’RE in control! Add an aggressive, level stance to your 2010–2011 Toyota 4Runner and install oversized Tire/Wheel combinations. Priced comparably to “fixed” leveling kits, our #71-5500T is a fraction of the cost of expensive 4-corner lifts and will not affect the original ride quality. ProRYDE Suspension Systems See us at  SEMA Booth#30163  www.ProRYDE.com 888/813-RYDE (7933)
Raider Industries Visitors to the Raider booth #31095 at the 2010 SEMA Show will have a chance to examine the company’s new fiberglass cap, the Vagabond Elite. This new model bridges the gap between basic function and premium style by combining the excellent ventilation of side sliding windows and screens with an all-glass rear door and center-mounted twist handle. Dealers and prospects who see the combination of function and style will be able to discuss its profit potential with Raider representatives during the show. Raider–Vagabond Elite www.raider.ca
Rebel Wire The Rebel Wire 9+3 Circuit Wiring Harness is perfect for your hot-rod, street-rod, custom or musclecar applications. Assembled from American-made components, this heavy-duty SXL wire is labeled every 6” and is bundled for easy installation. This kit has 9 circuits with all the basics, plus AC-Heat, a radio, a third brake light and 3 open circuits for whatever you want to add. Rebel Wire also has other kits available. Rebel Wire Inc. P.O. Box 348 Etowah, TN 37331 423/263-5399 www.rebelwire.com
Retro USA THE LOOK OF YESTERDAY FOR CARS OF TODAY Retro your Ride: ’05–’09 Mustang, ’08–’10 Challenger or ’10 Camaro. U.S.A.-made, Retro USA’s Chrome-TechTM bumpers combine TPO, the best in automotive plastic, with chrome film for a brilliant, better-than-chrome bumper that won’t rust, crack, chip or peel. Choose from Iconic style trim pieces: shark gills, hood vents, quarter scoops, quarter moldings and rocker moldings. Installed with adhesives; no-hole drilling. Visit SEMA Show booth #12165 Call 877/4-RETRO-USA Visit www.RetroUSA.net. Retro USA, Burnsville, MN
Superabrasive Does your car have a scratch marring its perfect finish? ScratchPro is the solution! ScratchPro by Superabrasive Inc., is a revolutionary new product for removing scratches from automotive paint finishes, chrome wheels, headlamp covers, etched glass and metal trims. This is the first and only scratch repair kit on the market that uses nature’s hardest material to buff and polish out deep scratches—diamonds. ScratchPro offers body shop performance without the body shop price! Visit www.scratchpro.com for more information or call 706/658-1122.
Trick Flow Specialties Trick Flow Specialties was born out of the need for premium-quality, high-performance engine products capable of delivering maximum power at affordable prices. Stock the best-designed, best-performing engine components available, and increase your profits. You owe it to your business to see the difference Trick Flow’s advanced engineering, R&D and manufacturing makes. Call Trick Flow Specialties at 888/841-6556 or go online at TrickFlow.com today and see what Ultimate Bolt-On Performance is all about. Trick Flow Specialties Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ET www.TrickFlow.com Phone: 330/630-1555 Toll-free 888/841-6556 Fax: 330/633-2504

 

SEMA News - November 2010

With more than 60 magazine titles and 60 websites in its Performance Automotive Group, Source Interlink Media is featuring the SEMA Action Network (SAN) and highlighting the laws and regulations impacting the automotive hobby. The themed issues are scheduled to hit newsstands in time for the November 2010 elections and encourage readers to exercise their right to be heard. 

“We are again at an election crossroads in which many voters are seeking change,” said Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media’s senior vice president and group publisher for the Performance Automotive Group. “These issues of our automotive magazines will give our readers an opportunity to consider how actions being taken by federal and state lawmakers impact the auto enthusiast. The need for the enthusiast community to stay informed and become involved is greater than ever. From emissions to auto equipment standards, the government is making decisions about your current and future car.”

The topic is not limited to Washington. While the federal government imposes rules for basic vehicle safety and emissions equipment, most other issues are handled at the state and local levels. From titling and registration to emissions inspection and maintenance and equipment standards, all motor-vehicle and motorcycle enthusiasts are subject to decisions made by their state and local officials.

“The people who love musclecars, hot rods, street rods, tuners, replicas, off-road trucks and many other varieties of automotive pursuits are as diverse as the country in which we live,” said SEMA Board of Directors Chairman Rick Rollins. “We must work to protect our automotive passions from unnecessary, unfair or well-intentioned but poorly written laws and regulations. Fortunately, we live in a country where we can still make a difference in how we are governed. Our greatest tool in making that difference is our voice. By speaking out on issues that concern the automotive hobby, contacting our representatives and working constructively with government officials, we have the power to protect our passion and keep it safe for future generations of auto hobbyists and enthusiasts.”

The future of the hobby depends on those who enjoy it. The ballot box is one venue for making views known. Enthusiasts can also work collectively by joining the SAN. The SAN is a partnership between enthusiasts, car clubs and members of the automotive specialty-parts industry in the United States and Canada who have pledged to join forces in support of legislative solutions for the auto hobby.
It’s free to join, and the SAN keeps you informed about pending legislation and regulations—both good and bad—that will impact your state or the country.

“We are the destination for millions of enthusiasts and consumers looking to find anything and everything about their enthusiast lifestyle,” Evans said. “Nowhere else can you find more powerful and credible brands specifically targeted to the needs and passions of our readers. We owe it to these dedicated readers to let them know about the threats to their hobby and solutions they can help enact to protect it.” 

 

 

 

SEMA News - November 2010

12 Ways to Spend Four Days in Vegas

Beat the clock. You have exactly four days to visit the 12 different sections of the 2010 SEMA Show. Do you have a wish list of exhibitors you want to meet with during the Show? Use the accompanying map to maximize your time by setting up meetings that flow along a well-planned walking route through the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees, remember that you have to balance Show-floor time against other commitments, including educational presentations, product demonstrations and the circuit of social events and award presentations. Ultimately, one thing cannot be overemphasized: There’s a limited amount of time available to spend face-to-face with the stakeholders of the exhibiting companies. The SEMA Show is only a few days away; don’t let your competition draft you. Plan your daily agenda, plot your course and add www.SEMAShow.com in your browser’s bookmarks—because the event schedules, 2010 SEMA Show Directory and travel information you need will be just a few clicks away. Click here to view the current exhibitor list by Show Section.

 

SEMA News - November 2010

12 Ways to Spend Four Days in Vegas

Beat the clock. You have exactly four days to visit the 12 different sections of the 2010 SEMA Show. Do you have a wish list of exhibitors you want to meet with during the Show? Use the accompanying map to maximize your time by setting up meetings that flow along a well-planned walking route through the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees, remember that you have to balance Show-floor time against other commitments, including educational presentations, product demonstrations and the circuit of social events and award presentations. Ultimately, one thing cannot be overemphasized: There’s a limited amount of time available to spend face-to-face with the stakeholders of the exhibiting companies. The SEMA Show is only a few days away; don’t let your competition draft you. Plan your daily agenda, plot your course and add www.SEMAShow.com in your browser’s bookmarks—because the event schedules, 2010 SEMA Show Directory and travel information you need will be just a few clicks away. Click here to view the current exhibitor list by Show Section.

 

SEMA News - November 2010

With the Google/Verizon Deal, Your Website Could Be Dumped Into a “Slow Load” Zone

By Joe Dysart

	A court defanged the Federal Communications Commission on Net Neutrality, finding that the agency had no authority to impose Net Neutrality regulations.

Google’s recent move to forsake Net Neutrality—the premise that all content on the web should be distributed even- handedly—threatens to have serious consequences for specialty-equipment industry websites, especially if other titans of the Internet follow suit. Slower-loading industry websites and bidding wars for preferential treatment from Internet service providers (ISPs) could become a sobering new reality for auto-parts businesses as the Internet’s current democratization gives way to enhanced service for those with the deepest pockets.

“This is completely unfair and would hurt smaller content providers (such as small-business websites) who didn’t have the resources to pay the fees,” said John M. Simpson, director of the Inside Google Project for Consumer Watchdog. “Content would be dominated by mega-corporations, much like cable television is today.”

Google has countered that its move to abandon Net Neutrality is a necessary “compromise” it needed to make with its ISP partner Verizon, which has long loathed Net Neutrality and which also promotes Google’s Android operating system on its Verizon phones. Essentially, ISPs, such as Verizon, have long complained that a concept such as Net Neutrality makes it impossible for them to charge higher rates for people and companies that consume more bandwidth than others. For example, someone’s grandmother, who sends e-mails to her grandkids a few times a week, shouldn’t have to pay the same rate as the movie fanatic next door, who is downloading bandwidth-hogging, feature-length films to a hard drive the size of a treasure chest all day, every day.

But critics of the new Google/Verizon alliance said that the companies’ joint proposal to take a pass on Net Neutrality when it comes to the wireless Internet will essentially, over time, transform a few giant companies into landlords of
the Internet.

“The Google-Verizon deal contains no protections for wireless access, which accounts for nearly one-third of all Internet connections, giving Verizon and other ISPs the green light to block or degrade content on their wireless networks,” said
S. Derek Turner, a research director at Free Press. “In addition, it would allow Internet service providers to discriminate online by offering private Internet services alongside those on the ‘public’ Internet.”

The threat is especially urgent, Google critics said, because there is currently no governmental body that has the authority to prevent what Google and Verizon have called a ‘proposal’ from morphing into an everyday business practice. The reason? While the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has historically been the entity to regulate the Internet when it comes to Net Neutrality, a District of Columbia U.S. Court of Appeals decided in April that the agency has no legal authority to impose Net Neutrality regulations.

In a phrase, there are all sorts of people with all sorts of opinions about Net Neutrality, but there’s no one driving the car in terms of regulations right now. In the near future, fierce public backlash against a web devoid of Net Neutrality—which would divide itself into a collection of upscale gated communities alongside blighted digital ghettos—is keeping the wolf at bay, Google critics said. But critics fear that without government intervention your auto-parts business could be negatively impacted in the long term in the following ways:

• Some content providers, such as video-sharing sites, would be able to pay an added fee to ensure that their videos download faster on the wireless Internet than other videos. In practice, this could mean that videos from YouTube (a Google-owned company), for example, would download quicker than, say, the promotional videos you have on your specialty-equipment website. “This would clearly be possible on the wireless Internet under the Google-Verizon proposal,” said Consumer Watchdog’s Simpson. “I think, indeed, that the deal would allow for some paid premium services on the wired Internet as well.”
• Some businesses might have the opportunity to pay a premium fee on the wireless Internet to ensure that their websites download faster than the websites of other, non-fee-paying businesses in the same industry. “This is unfair and would limit competition and consumer choice,” Simpson said. “Consider the implications of Google being able to pay for its search service to download faster than Bing’s search service.”
• Competitors in the same industry, including the specialty-equipment industry, could ultimately be forced into a bidding war for the fastest website download times on the wireless Internet. This bidding war would mirror the war that currently rages every day among businesses that bid on Google keywords, which lead searchers to sponsored links. “This is unfair in that it would give preference to a few of the wealthiest, largest companies,” Simpson said. “The Internet was supposed to provide open access to all comers, treating all data the same.”
• Some company websites could simply be closed out of the fast lane on the wireless Internet due to private deals struck between mega-ISPs and their preferred customers. Your ISP, for example, may decide against granting download access to a company such as SalesForce.com after cutting a deal with a competitor that offered a similar service on the web. As another example, “Verizon could offer only Google’s search,” Simpson said. “The Internet was meant to be open to all equally. This violates that basic principle and is clearly unfair.”
• Some companies could be forced to pay an added fee on the wireless Internet if they wanted to add new services to their websites in future years. Fifteen years ago, for example, adding easily downloadable video on a website was virtually unimaginable. Now, a 10-year-old kid with a cell phone can do it between lollipop licks. If the Google/Verizon proposal was in effect 15 years ago, we could all be paying extra for the privilege of offering video on our websites. “This is one of the most damaging aspects of the Google-Verizon deal,” Simpson said. “New charges could be added for heretofore unimagined services. Clearly, this unfairly thwarts innovation—or, at the least, limits ‘innovation’ to only those who can afford to pay. This is tremendously damaging to new start-up enterprises, the real incubators of true innovation.”
• Some company websites on the wireless Internet could begin to see fewer hits, as ever-rising Internet connection fees for consumers and business users—such as the ever-rising fees we now all pay for cable—begin limiting the number of users freely surfing the web. “This is exactly the danger,” said Simpson. 

Joe Dysart is an Internet speaker and business consultant based in Manhattan, New York.
Voice: 646/233-4089
E-mail: joe@joedysart.com
Website: www.joedysart.com