SEMA News - December 2009

Joe Dysart

Top 10 Free Business Uses

Already a juggernaut for business marketing, YouTube is becoming the Swiss Army knife of business communications.

While YouTube has emerged as a marketing juggernaut for businesses, many firms are also discovering that the free video-sharing service has scores of other uses—all of which are also free for the taking. Company recruiting, client communications, product/service how-to’s and dissemination of company news are all increasing in popularity on YouTube as firms transform the medium into a Swiss Army knife of business communications.

“If you’ve never visited the YouTube website, you’ve missed out on the hottest thing on the Internet today,” said Michael Miller, author of YouTube for Business: Online Video Marketing for Any Business, an excellent guide.

One of the major reasons businesses are flocking to YouTube is its unbridled popularity. Just a blip on the web’s radar a few years ago, the video-sharing service has rocketed to one of the most visited sites on the Internet. During August 2009 alone, more than 120 million viewers watched nearly 10 billion videos on YouTube, according to market watcher Comscore.

Organizations also find YouTube’s ease of entry and low cost hard to resist. Virtually anyone with basic PC skills can upload a video to YouTube—for free—in a matter of minutes. And since YouTube’s videos are generally viewed in a relatively small viewing screen, there’s no reason for businesses to endure painful budgets for video production costs. In fact, the subtleties of high-end video production are generally lost on YouTube, according to Miller.

Plus, business users are saving significant coin by shifting hosting responsibilities for their videos onto YouTube. The reason? Ordinarily, a firm needs to pay bandwidth transmission charges anytime a visitor views a video hosted on its company website. But when that same video is uploaded to YouTube’s servers, businesses never pay a bandwidth transmission cost—no matter how many times that video is viewed.

All told, it’s a frothy mix of remarkable popularity, ease of entry and virtually non-existent costs that have the wheels spinning at countless organizations as they continually innovate on YouTube. So far, here are the top 10 uses they’ve forged:

Marketing: This is without doubt the most popular business use of YouTube, and it can be wildly successful. Firms with shoestring promotional budgets have become overnight stars on the service, often with zany and off-the-wall marketing pitches. One of the classics is “Will It Blend,” a campy series from blender manufacturer Blendtec, which proves the mettle of its product by “blending” some rather unorthodox items in its blender. Among the hapless victims of the series are:

• iPhone
• rake handle
• 50 marbles 

Other successful irreverent takes on YouTube marketing include offerings from:

• T-Mobile Dance
• Inspired Bicycles
• Rosenthal Plumbing

Recruiting: Given that many firms already have videos touting their businesses as inviting places to work, posting those same productions on YouTube is a no-brainer. Top firms already cashing in on the free exposure include Intel, Siemens and Google.

“Don’t limit yourself to a single, long puff video,” Miller said. “Produce separate videos for individual departments as well as to illustrate company values, employee benefits, facilities and the like.”

Product/Service How-To’s: These videos can, of course, serve a dual purpose for a business, offering detailed instructions for novice clients and customers while serving as a promotional spot for looky-lous.

Given that many firms already have videos touting their businesses as inviting places to work, posting those same productions on YouTube is a no-brainer.

I personally mustered the courage to swap in a new, faster CPU on my PC—something I perceived as akin to open-heart surgery—after viewing a slickly produced how-to video by AMD. Without the video, I would never have attempted the swap nor purchased the CPU.

Company Video FAQs: Any firm can leap over the image of faceless, monolithic corporate players with on-the-fly videos, which feature charming customer-service people answering frequently asked questions. Sure, many businesses already have written FAQs on their websites. But there is something to be said for going the extra mile and offering the personal touch inherent in the video medium. For a model video FAQ, check out AT&T’s offering on iPhones.

News Video Clips: The beauty of posting your company news to YouTube is that your information is not sliced, diced or in any other way whittled down to a mere shadow of its former glory. Jeff Bezos of Amazon.com, for example, recently posted an eight-minute video on YouTube detailing his company’s acquisition of Zappos.

Focus Groups: Many sophisticated users of YouTube are also using the service as a free testing ground for commercials that they plan to run on cable and broadcast TV and elsewhere on the web. Specifically, they use YouTube’s free analytical tool, Insight, to test the viewing popularity of commercials. Insight’s metrics include the overall popularity of the video, who’s viewing the video, where those viewers are coming from on the web and what keywords they used to find the video.

Client Communications: When an e-mail or friendly phone call simply doesn’t cut it, many firms are posting videos to YouTube to connect with clients concerning project updates, personalized descriptions of new products or services and the like. The medium conveys the message that the company places a special value on its client or customer and is willing to go the extra distance to prove it. Plus, such communications can be easily made private on YouTube by selecting the “private” option under its “Broadcast Options” variable. This ensures that only the viewers you select get to see the video you’ve uploaded.

Employee-to-Employee Communications: As far as Google, the parent company of YouTube, is concerned, “videomail” could be poised to become the e-mail of the next decade. In fact, Google has added “Google Video” to its Google Apps suite for businesses. Makes sense. Why not zip off a response to a thorny problem or challenge via video mail if it’s easier to do so than in another medium? At the very least, videomail is a trend worth experimenting with and monitoring.

Employee Training: Any company with multiple locations across the United States or across the world can immediately see the benefit of posting training videos on YouTube and having the appropriate employees dial in. And by using YouTube’s “private broadcast” option, those companies can ensure that the training videos stay internal. “Many companies find that YouTube is a fast and effective way to disseminate all kinds of employee information,” Miller said. “Done right, it gets information out there in near real time with all the benefits of face-to-face communication.”

Savings on Business Travel: All the videos sent to employees and clients are also enabling businesses users to rack up substantial savings on business travel. Granted, there are plenty of instances where true face-to-face interaction is irreplaceable.

But in many other situations, a video overture is a bull’s-eye compromise between basic e-mail and an all-expenses-paid business trip for one or more employees to multiple cities.

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

 

 

 

SEMA News - December 2009

LEGISLATIVE & TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

By Steve McDonald

Working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the Air Resources Board and the attorney general’s office, SEMA has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1–December 31, 2010, and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners who have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first-come, first-served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog-test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far). Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.

“The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant Jim McFarland. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it’s also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for powertrains that represent the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies.”

However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the GreenRod Project and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, an EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage ’80 El Camino fitted with a ’86 carbureted 5.7L engine. The 5.7L, 350-cid small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst-case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables, such as engine condition, accumulated mileage and related factors affecting emissions, from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel-injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty-equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full-acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions that did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said SO-CAL Speed Shop owner Pete Chapouris.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the GreenRod Project

The following are questions and answers about the amnesty program and the GreenRod Project.

Question: How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

Answer: If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the DMV or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a ’32 Ford built in 2002 is not a ’32 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a ’02 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

Question: What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

Answer: If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the state of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the titles to their cars. To receive amnesty, any and all back taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

Question: What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Answer: Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog-check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

Question: How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

Answer: The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

Question: If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

Answer: GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot-rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

Question: If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

Answer: The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog-check requirements, depending upon variables that include but are not limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and malfunctioning EGR systems.

Question: Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Answer: Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded-mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

Question: What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

Answer: SEMA and GM will be available to provide some technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.

SEMA News - December 2009

LEGISLATIVE & TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

By Steve McDonald

Working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the Air Resources Board and the attorney general’s office, SEMA has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1–December 31, 2010, and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners who have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first-come, first-served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog-test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far). Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.

“The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant Jim McFarland. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it’s also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for powertrains that represent the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies.”

However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the GreenRod Project and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, an EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage ’80 El Camino fitted with a ’86 carbureted 5.7L engine. The 5.7L, 350-cid small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst-case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables, such as engine condition, accumulated mileage and related factors affecting emissions, from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel-injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty-equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full-acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions that did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said SO-CAL Speed Shop owner Pete Chapouris.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the GreenRod Project

The following are questions and answers about the amnesty program and the GreenRod Project.

Question: How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

Answer: If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the DMV or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a ’32 Ford built in 2002 is not a ’32 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a ’02 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

Question: What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

Answer: If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the state of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the titles to their cars. To receive amnesty, any and all back taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

Question: What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Answer: Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog-check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

Question: How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

Answer: The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

Question: If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

Answer: GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot-rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

Question: If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

Answer: The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog-check requirements, depending upon variables that include but are not limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and malfunctioning EGR systems.

Question: Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Answer: Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded-mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

Question: What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

Answer: SEMA and GM will be available to provide some technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.

SEMA News - December 2009

LEGISLATIVE & TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

By Steve McDonald

Working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the Air Resources Board and the attorney general’s office, SEMA has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1–December 31, 2010, and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners who have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first-come, first-served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog-test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far). Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.

“The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant Jim McFarland. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it’s also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for powertrains that represent the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies.”

However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the GreenRod Project and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, an EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage ’80 El Camino fitted with a ’86 carbureted 5.7L engine. The 5.7L, 350-cid small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst-case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables, such as engine condition, accumulated mileage and related factors affecting emissions, from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel-injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty-equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full-acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions that did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said SO-CAL Speed Shop owner Pete Chapouris.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the GreenRod Project

The following are questions and answers about the amnesty program and the GreenRod Project.

Question: How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

Answer: If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the DMV or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a ’32 Ford built in 2002 is not a ’32 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a ’02 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

Question: What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

Answer: If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the state of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the titles to their cars. To receive amnesty, any and all back taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

Question: What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Answer: Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog-check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

Question: How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

Answer: The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

Question: If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

Answer: GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot-rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

Question: If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

Answer: The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog-check requirements, depending upon variables that include but are not limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and malfunctioning EGR systems.

Question: Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Answer: Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded-mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

Question: What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

Answer: SEMA and GM will be available to provide some technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.

SEMA News - December 2009

LEGISLATIVE & TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

By Steve McDonald

Working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the Air Resources Board and the attorney general’s office, SEMA has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1–December 31, 2010, and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners who have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first-come, first-served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog-test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far). Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.

“The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant Jim McFarland. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it’s also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for powertrains that represent the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies.”

However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the GreenRod Project and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, an EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage ’80 El Camino fitted with a ’86 carbureted 5.7L engine. The 5.7L, 350-cid small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst-case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables, such as engine condition, accumulated mileage and related factors affecting emissions, from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel-injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty-equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full-acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions that did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said SO-CAL Speed Shop owner Pete Chapouris.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the GreenRod Project

The following are questions and answers about the amnesty program and the GreenRod Project.

Question: How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

Answer: If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the DMV or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a ’32 Ford built in 2002 is not a ’32 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a ’02 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

Question: What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

Answer: If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the state of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the titles to their cars. To receive amnesty, any and all back taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

Question: What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Answer: Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog-check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

Question: How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

Answer: The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

Question: If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

Answer: GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot-rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

Question: If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

Answer: The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog-check requirements, depending upon variables that include but are not limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and malfunctioning EGR systems.

Question: Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Answer: Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded-mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

Question: What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

Answer: SEMA and GM will be available to provide some technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.

SEMA News - December 2009

LEGISLATIVE & TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

By Steve McDonald

Working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the Air Resources Board and the attorney general’s office, SEMA has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1–December 31, 2010, and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners who have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first-come, first-served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog-test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far). Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.

“The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant Jim McFarland. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it’s also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for powertrains that represent the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies.”

However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the GreenRod Project and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, an EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage ’80 El Camino fitted with a ’86 carbureted 5.7L engine. The 5.7L, 350-cid small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst-case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables, such as engine condition, accumulated mileage and related factors affecting emissions, from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel-injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty-equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full-acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions that did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said SO-CAL Speed Shop owner Pete Chapouris.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the GreenRod Project

The following are questions and answers about the amnesty program and the GreenRod Project.

Question: How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

Answer: If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the DMV or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a ’32 Ford built in 2002 is not a ’32 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a ’02 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

Question: What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

Answer: If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the state of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the titles to their cars. To receive amnesty, any and all back taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

Question: What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Answer: Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog-check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

Question: How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

Answer: The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

Question: If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

Answer: GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot-rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

Question: If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

Answer: The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog-check requirements, depending upon variables that include but are not limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and malfunctioning EGR systems.

Question: Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Answer: Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded-mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

Question: What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

Answer: SEMA and GM will be available to provide some technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.

SEMA News - December 2009

LEGISLATIVE & TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

By Steve McDonald

Working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the Air Resources Board and the attorney general’s office, SEMA has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA vice president of government affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1–December 31, 2010, and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners who have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first-come, first-served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog-test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several approved OEM engines and related powertrain components (GM has secured approval for certain engines thus far). Using these OEM components and specifications for the construction of an approved fuel tank and delivery system, these engines provide performance-level power and are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.

“The GM engine package represents another option for SCV owners seeking to legally register and title their vehicles,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant Jim McFarland. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it’s also possible for owners of amnesty vehicles to exchange their existing engines for powertrains that represent the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies.”

However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the GreenRod Project and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, an EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage ’80 El Camino fitted with a ’86 carbureted 5.7L engine. The 5.7L, 350-cid small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst-case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables, such as engine condition, accumulated mileage and related factors affecting emissions, from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel-injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty-equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full-acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions that did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said SO-CAL Speed Shop owner Pete Chapouris.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the GreenRod Project

The following are questions and answers about the amnesty program and the GreenRod Project.

Question: How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

Answer: If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the DMV or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a ’32 Ford built in 2002 is not a ’32 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a ’02 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

Question: What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

Answer: If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the state of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the titles to their cars. To receive amnesty, any and all back taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

Question: What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Answer: Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog-check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

Question: How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

Answer: The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

Question: If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

Answer: GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot-rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

Question: If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

Answer: The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog-check requirements, depending upon variables that include but are not limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and malfunctioning EGR systems.

Question: Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Answer: Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded-mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

Question: What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

Answer: SEMA and GM will be available to provide some technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.

SEMA News - December 2009

A World-Class Learning Opportunity

SEMA has negotiated a special relationship with Harvard to allow even its smallest member companies to receive the same training provided to Fortune 500 firms.

The SEMA Education Institute (SEI) recently finalized an agreement with Harvard Business School Publishing to offer a series of web-based business training courses for SEMA members. A well-trained and motivated management team is critical to your success. In tough times, however, maintaining an adequate training budget is sometimes impossible. For SEMA members, that has now changed. Through SEMA, you and your management staff can receive world-class training from Harvard—the premier source for management practices, programs and business content.

One of the first budget lines reduced in tough economic conditions is often employee training. The paradox is that your people need to be at their best during trying times—and the right training at the right time might just give your managers the edge it takes to stay on top. What do you do?

“Busy professionals need access to digestible, practical information to do their jobs better,” said Peter McAteer, managing director and vice president of corporate learning at Harvard Business School Publishing. “We have dramatically enhanced the interface and navigation to make it easier to absorb and retain information, drill down on topics or come back to a key tool. It’s like putting dozens of the most respected thinkers in business on every desktop in your organization.”

“Training is critical, especially now when business is down” said Bob Price, executive director of SEI. “Everyone needs to do more with less in these tough times, and many of the managers of our member companies are faced with responsibilities they may not have had before. The Harvard courses can help give you the basics to get the job done now.”

Harvard ManageMentor10

Harvard ManageMentor10 is an award-winning management resource that is ideal for SEMA-member employees at all experience levels who face a variety of challenges on a daily basis.

Harvard ManageMentor10 is an award-winning management resource that is ideal for SEMA-member employees at all experience levels who face a variety of challenges on a daily basis. This resource provides access to action-orientated information on 42 key management topics that were developed under the guidance of world-renowned experts, practitioners and business leaders. Subject areas include:

• Business Plan Development
• Crisis Management
• Finance Essentials
• Hiring
• Marketing Essentials
• Strategic Planning
• Performance Measurement
• Leading and Motivating
• Process Improvement

Developed with input from managers, senior executives and other learning leaders through extensive prototyping and user testing, Harvard ManageMentor10 presents new media-rich features that include:

• 200 interactive learning activities that reinforce key learning points and offer managers the opportunity to apply what they learn
• 350 video elements to engage learners
• 125 compelling short video stories from leading global executives that offer real-world perspectives
• Audio downloads for every topic, allowing users to listen to the content anywhere at any time
• User tips, tools, downloadable forms, self tests and other materials

Module Structure

Each course module is one hour of training time, but can also be taken in a 20-minute accelerated format. The modules are organized by the following sections:

Get Started: Grabs the learner’s interest with a media-based scenario; provides a topic overview; offers multiple paths through the module content.

Learn: Presents the key ideas of the topic and reinforces with interactive activities. Many learning points are complemented by short video clips of relevant, compelling stories told by leading global business executives. Each “Learn” section includes approximately five Key Ideas, four Activities and three Personal Insights video clips.

Practice: Provides a real-world, interactive scenario and self test to check the learner’s understanding of the concepts. Managers hone new skills and receive instant feedback in a safe environment.

Apply: Offers practical steps, tips and tools for applying concepts on the job. Downloadable forms and worksheets are ideal for continuous use and flexible application.

Explore Further: Points listener to embedded online articles; recommends additional articles and books; provides module source notes.

Additional Features: Includes audio downloads for MP3 players and functionality to mark user’s favorite pages. Competency tests are also available.

  

The Impact of Management Training

Nobody doubts the value of well-trained managers and leaders, but how do you pay for the training? And how do you measure your return on investment? Here are some facts to consider:

• Managers with expanded skills will be able to make more strategically aligned decisions within their departments or their teams—decisions that are less about “turf protection” and more about company success.
• In tough times, one of the very first budget lines to go is training of employees. Well-informed and trained managers will be able to help their employees better understand company strategies and the subsequent actions and initiatives, curtailing confusion, fear, sadness or anger that accompanies change or bad news.
• Managers and their teams are more likely to feel engaged and connected to the business when they “get” the numbers and when they better understand the actions and decisions of senior leadership. Engaged employees are more productive and more likely to accept accountability for their role in success.
• When managers and employees better understand where the company is going and have confidence in strategies and decisions, they will be less likely to look around for other job opportunities. Retention of talent is critical to a company’s growth when the tough times are over.

In addition to greater productivity gains, when managers better understand the financial and strategic reasons for new initiatives around products, processes or people, they’ll have a higher level of commitment to these important changes. As we all know, change is difficult. Managerial commitment is often the key to the success of any change.

Learn More, Earn More

More than 1 million managers from major firms world-wide currently rely on Harvard ManageMentor10’s management content. The courses are not available to individuals; large companies invest tens of thousands of dollars to provide access for their managers. SEMA has negotiated a special relationship with Harvard to allow even its smallest member companies to receive the same training provided to Fortune 500 firms. The courses are valued at more than $600 for all 42 hours of training. The introductory price, available to SEMA members and, for a limited time, non-members, is $199. What’s more, the modules are priced to ensure that convenient and cost-effective options are available for SEMA members. Members also have the added benefit of having 12 months’ access to the series of modules from the date of purchase, providing the flexibility to complete each module at your convenience and as needed. You are in control of your learning.

View the full course catalog and to start learning online, select the Harvard Business Publishing modules option.

Is your company taking steps to improve the business skills of your management team in these tough times? Give your busy managers the resources they need to get the job done. SEMA is here to help.

SEMA News - December 2009

A World-Class Learning Opportunity

SEMA has negotiated a special relationship with Harvard to allow even its smallest member companies to receive the same training provided to Fortune 500 firms.

The SEMA Education Institute (SEI) recently finalized an agreement with Harvard Business School Publishing to offer a series of web-based business training courses for SEMA members. A well-trained and motivated management team is critical to your success. In tough times, however, maintaining an adequate training budget is sometimes impossible. For SEMA members, that has now changed. Through SEMA, you and your management staff can receive world-class training from Harvard—the premier source for management practices, programs and business content.

One of the first budget lines reduced in tough economic conditions is often employee training. The paradox is that your people need to be at their best during trying times—and the right training at the right time might just give your managers the edge it takes to stay on top. What do you do?

“Busy professionals need access to digestible, practical information to do their jobs better,” said Peter McAteer, managing director and vice president of corporate learning at Harvard Business School Publishing. “We have dramatically enhanced the interface and navigation to make it easier to absorb and retain information, drill down on topics or come back to a key tool. It’s like putting dozens of the most respected thinkers in business on every desktop in your organization.”

“Training is critical, especially now when business is down” said Bob Price, executive director of SEI. “Everyone needs to do more with less in these tough times, and many of the managers of our member companies are faced with responsibilities they may not have had before. The Harvard courses can help give you the basics to get the job done now.”

Harvard ManageMentor10

Harvard ManageMentor10 is an award-winning management resource that is ideal for SEMA-member employees at all experience levels who face a variety of challenges on a daily basis.

Harvard ManageMentor10 is an award-winning management resource that is ideal for SEMA-member employees at all experience levels who face a variety of challenges on a daily basis. This resource provides access to action-orientated information on 42 key management topics that were developed under the guidance of world-renowned experts, practitioners and business leaders. Subject areas include:

• Business Plan Development
• Crisis Management
• Finance Essentials
• Hiring
• Marketing Essentials
• Strategic Planning
• Performance Measurement
• Leading and Motivating
• Process Improvement

Developed with input from managers, senior executives and other learning leaders through extensive prototyping and user testing, Harvard ManageMentor10 presents new media-rich features that include:

• 200 interactive learning activities that reinforce key learning points and offer managers the opportunity to apply what they learn
• 350 video elements to engage learners
• 125 compelling short video stories from leading global executives that offer real-world perspectives
• Audio downloads for every topic, allowing users to listen to the content anywhere at any time
• User tips, tools, downloadable forms, self tests and other materials

Module Structure

Each course module is one hour of training time, but can also be taken in a 20-minute accelerated format. The modules are organized by the following sections:

Get Started: Grabs the learner’s interest with a media-based scenario; provides a topic overview; offers multiple paths through the module content.

Learn: Presents the key ideas of the topic and reinforces with interactive activities. Many learning points are complemented by short video clips of relevant, compelling stories told by leading global business executives. Each “Learn” section includes approximately five Key Ideas, four Activities and three Personal Insights video clips.

Practice: Provides a real-world, interactive scenario and self test to check the learner’s understanding of the concepts. Managers hone new skills and receive instant feedback in a safe environment.

Apply: Offers practical steps, tips and tools for applying concepts on the job. Downloadable forms and worksheets are ideal for continuous use and flexible application.

Explore Further: Points listener to embedded online articles; recommends additional articles and books; provides module source notes.

Additional Features: Includes audio downloads for MP3 players and functionality to mark user’s favorite pages. Competency tests are also available.

  

The Impact of Management Training

Nobody doubts the value of well-trained managers and leaders, but how do you pay for the training? And how do you measure your return on investment? Here are some facts to consider:

• Managers with expanded skills will be able to make more strategically aligned decisions within their departments or their teams—decisions that are less about “turf protection” and more about company success.
• In tough times, one of the very first budget lines to go is training of employees. Well-informed and trained managers will be able to help their employees better understand company strategies and the subsequent actions and initiatives, curtailing confusion, fear, sadness or anger that accompanies change or bad news.
• Managers and their teams are more likely to feel engaged and connected to the business when they “get” the numbers and when they better understand the actions and decisions of senior leadership. Engaged employees are more productive and more likely to accept accountability for their role in success.
• When managers and employees better understand where the company is going and have confidence in strategies and decisions, they will be less likely to look around for other job opportunities. Retention of talent is critical to a company’s growth when the tough times are over.

In addition to greater productivity gains, when managers better understand the financial and strategic reasons for new initiatives around products, processes or people, they’ll have a higher level of commitment to these important changes. As we all know, change is difficult. Managerial commitment is often the key to the success of any change.

Learn More, Earn More

More than 1 million managers from major firms world-wide currently rely on Harvard ManageMentor10’s management content. The courses are not available to individuals; large companies invest tens of thousands of dollars to provide access for their managers. SEMA has negotiated a special relationship with Harvard to allow even its smallest member companies to receive the same training provided to Fortune 500 firms. The courses are valued at more than $600 for all 42 hours of training. The introductory price, available to SEMA members and, for a limited time, non-members, is $199. What’s more, the modules are priced to ensure that convenient and cost-effective options are available for SEMA members. Members also have the added benefit of having 12 months’ access to the series of modules from the date of purchase, providing the flexibility to complete each module at your convenience and as needed. You are in control of your learning.

View the full course catalog and to start learning online, select the Harvard Business Publishing modules option.

Is your company taking steps to improve the business skills of your management team in these tough times? Give your busy managers the resources they need to get the job done. SEMA is here to help.

SEMA News - December 2009

A World-Class Learning Opportunity

SEMA has negotiated a special relationship with Harvard to allow even its smallest member companies to receive the same training provided to Fortune 500 firms.

The SEMA Education Institute (SEI) recently finalized an agreement with Harvard Business School Publishing to offer a series of web-based business training courses for SEMA members. A well-trained and motivated management team is critical to your success. In tough times, however, maintaining an adequate training budget is sometimes impossible. For SEMA members, that has now changed. Through SEMA, you and your management staff can receive world-class training from Harvard—the premier source for management practices, programs and business content.

One of the first budget lines reduced in tough economic conditions is often employee training. The paradox is that your people need to be at their best during trying times—and the right training at the right time might just give your managers the edge it takes to stay on top. What do you do?

“Busy professionals need access to digestible, practical information to do their jobs better,” said Peter McAteer, managing director and vice president of corporate learning at Harvard Business School Publishing. “We have dramatically enhanced the interface and navigation to make it easier to absorb and retain information, drill down on topics or come back to a key tool. It’s like putting dozens of the most respected thinkers in business on every desktop in your organization.”

“Training is critical, especially now when business is down” said Bob Price, executive director of SEI. “Everyone needs to do more with less in these tough times, and many of the managers of our member companies are faced with responsibilities they may not have had before. The Harvard courses can help give you the basics to get the job done now.”

Harvard ManageMentor10

Harvard ManageMentor10 is an award-winning management resource that is ideal for SEMA-member employees at all experience levels who face a variety of challenges on a daily basis.

Harvard ManageMentor10 is an award-winning management resource that is ideal for SEMA-member employees at all experience levels who face a variety of challenges on a daily basis. This resource provides access to action-orientated information on 42 key management topics that were developed under the guidance of world-renowned experts, practitioners and business leaders. Subject areas include:

• Business Plan Development
• Crisis Management
• Finance Essentials
• Hiring
• Marketing Essentials
• Strategic Planning
• Performance Measurement
• Leading and Motivating
• Process Improvement

Developed with input from managers, senior executives and other learning leaders through extensive prototyping and user testing, Harvard ManageMentor10 presents new media-rich features that include:

• 200 interactive learning activities that reinforce key learning points and offer managers the opportunity to apply what they learn
• 350 video elements to engage learners
• 125 compelling short video stories from leading global executives that offer real-world perspectives
• Audio downloads for every topic, allowing users to listen to the content anywhere at any time
• User tips, tools, downloadable forms, self tests and other materials

Module Structure

Each course module is one hour of training time, but can also be taken in a 20-minute accelerated format. The modules are organized by the following sections:

Get Started: Grabs the learner’s interest with a media-based scenario; provides a topic overview; offers multiple paths through the module content.

Learn: Presents the key ideas of the topic and reinforces with interactive activities. Many learning points are complemented by short video clips of relevant, compelling stories told by leading global business executives. Each “Learn” section includes approximately five Key Ideas, four Activities and three Personal Insights video clips.

Practice: Provides a real-world, interactive scenario and self test to check the learner’s understanding of the concepts. Managers hone new skills and receive instant feedback in a safe environment.

Apply: Offers practical steps, tips and tools for applying concepts on the job. Downloadable forms and worksheets are ideal for continuous use and flexible application.

Explore Further: Points listener to embedded online articles; recommends additional articles and books; provides module source notes.

Additional Features: Includes audio downloads for MP3 players and functionality to mark user’s favorite pages. Competency tests are also available.

  

The Impact of Management Training

Nobody doubts the value of well-trained managers and leaders, but how do you pay for the training? And how do you measure your return on investment? Here are some facts to consider:

• Managers with expanded skills will be able to make more strategically aligned decisions within their departments or their teams—decisions that are less about “turf protection” and more about company success.
• In tough times, one of the very first budget lines to go is training of employees. Well-informed and trained managers will be able to help their employees better understand company strategies and the subsequent actions and initiatives, curtailing confusion, fear, sadness or anger that accompanies change or bad news.
• Managers and their teams are more likely to feel engaged and connected to the business when they “get” the numbers and when they better understand the actions and decisions of senior leadership. Engaged employees are more productive and more likely to accept accountability for their role in success.
• When managers and employees better understand where the company is going and have confidence in strategies and decisions, they will be less likely to look around for other job opportunities. Retention of talent is critical to a company’s growth when the tough times are over.

In addition to greater productivity gains, when managers better understand the financial and strategic reasons for new initiatives around products, processes or people, they’ll have a higher level of commitment to these important changes. As we all know, change is difficult. Managerial commitment is often the key to the success of any change.

Learn More, Earn More

More than 1 million managers from major firms world-wide currently rely on Harvard ManageMentor10’s management content. The courses are not available to individuals; large companies invest tens of thousands of dollars to provide access for their managers. SEMA has negotiated a special relationship with Harvard to allow even its smallest member companies to receive the same training provided to Fortune 500 firms. The courses are valued at more than $600 for all 42 hours of training. The introductory price, available to SEMA members and, for a limited time, non-members, is $199. What’s more, the modules are priced to ensure that convenient and cost-effective options are available for SEMA members. Members also have the added benefit of having 12 months’ access to the series of modules from the date of purchase, providing the flexibility to complete each module at your convenience and as needed. You are in control of your learning.

View the full course catalog and to start learning online, select the Harvard Business Publishing modules option.

Is your company taking steps to improve the business skills of your management team in these tough times? Give your busy managers the resources they need to get the job done. SEMA is here to help.