SEMA News - December 2009

Opportunity. Diversity. Confidence. Profits. Those are a few of the keys that lock in the continuing partnership between the automakers, the vehicle dealers and SEMA-member companies. Giving consumers the right vehicles with their preferred options is what each arm of the distribution chain strives for.

One huge chunk of that process is accessory-friendly vehicles—cars and trucks that are designed from the get-go to encourage owner personalization. A driver’s experience with a car or truck skyrockets when he or she can equip it to suit personal wants and needs. When that owner can buy the vehicle and select from a vast array of specialty-equipment accessories and have them professionally installed with complete confidence, another sales channel opens.

ProPledge opens that channel.

SEMA has been working on the ProPledge warranty assurance program for about three years. With the completion of a successful pilot program, ProPledge is now poised for a national roll-out. The program provides end users with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty on participating products and installation. And now, further enhancing the program for automakers, dealerships, specialty-equipment manufacturers and independent restyling companies, SEMA has partnered with Insignia, an industry-leading provider of accessory sales tools.

The ProPledge/Insignia combination is a match made in heaven for vehicle dealers. Insignia provides training, integrated catalogs and a depth of information that allows sales people to present accessory opportunities with confidence at the time a vehicle is sold. The Insignia program integrates the process from the dealership’s showroom floor to the finance and insurance department, and it offers communication links that include the dealership’s online efforts and even its parts counter. The sales team is equipped with not only the latest information about accessories for each vehicle, but also the ProPledge accessory warranty.

And, speaking of installation, Insignia also offers a program tailored specifically for restylers and independent installers who work with vehicle dealerships. Insignia helps restylers develop a portfolio of products that are available online, giving the dealer an easy-to-use system from which to purchase products. The dealership can also integrate the restyler’s accessories into its own catalog or website, providing direct-to-consumer information and an end-to-end accessory-sales solution for its customers—all of it covered by ProPledge.

The success of the recent Dealer Day program and the tens of thousands of products on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas illustrate the staggering potential for additional business in every vehicle segment. The unique ProPledge/Insignia solution allows the industry to leap over a pair of the traditional hurdles to accessory sales: warranty concerns and customer satisfaction scores. A complete sales team—one that combines OEMs, dealerships and SEMA members—can now provide customers with top-notch vehicles equipped precisely the way customers want them with the confidence of a nationally recognized long-term warranty.

Check it out for yourself. It’s as easy as a few mouse clicks or a phone call. For dealership, installer or accessory manufacturer information about ProPledge, visit www.ProPledge.com or call 818/248-4449.

For more information about Insignia, visit www.insigniagroup.com or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA News - December 2009

Opportunity. Diversity. Confidence. Profits. Those are a few of the keys that lock in the continuing partnership between the automakers, the vehicle dealers and SEMA-member companies. Giving consumers the right vehicles with their preferred options is what each arm of the distribution chain strives for.

One huge chunk of that process is accessory-friendly vehicles—cars and trucks that are designed from the get-go to encourage owner personalization. A driver’s experience with a car or truck skyrockets when he or she can equip it to suit personal wants and needs. When that owner can buy the vehicle and select from a vast array of specialty-equipment accessories and have them professionally installed with complete confidence, another sales channel opens.

ProPledge opens that channel.

SEMA has been working on the ProPledge warranty assurance program for about three years. With the completion of a successful pilot program, ProPledge is now poised for a national roll-out. The program provides end users with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty on participating products and installation. And now, further enhancing the program for automakers, dealerships, specialty-equipment manufacturers and independent restyling companies, SEMA has partnered with Insignia, an industry-leading provider of accessory sales tools.

The ProPledge/Insignia combination is a match made in heaven for vehicle dealers. Insignia provides training, integrated catalogs and a depth of information that allows sales people to present accessory opportunities with confidence at the time a vehicle is sold. The Insignia program integrates the process from the dealership’s showroom floor to the finance and insurance department, and it offers communication links that include the dealership’s online efforts and even its parts counter. The sales team is equipped with not only the latest information about accessories for each vehicle, but also the ProPledge accessory warranty.

And, speaking of installation, Insignia also offers a program tailored specifically for restylers and independent installers who work with vehicle dealerships. Insignia helps restylers develop a portfolio of products that are available online, giving the dealer an easy-to-use system from which to purchase products. The dealership can also integrate the restyler’s accessories into its own catalog or website, providing direct-to-consumer information and an end-to-end accessory-sales solution for its customers—all of it covered by ProPledge.

The success of the recent Dealer Day program and the tens of thousands of products on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas illustrate the staggering potential for additional business in every vehicle segment. The unique ProPledge/Insignia solution allows the industry to leap over a pair of the traditional hurdles to accessory sales: warranty concerns and customer satisfaction scores. A complete sales team—one that combines OEMs, dealerships and SEMA members—can now provide customers with top-notch vehicles equipped precisely the way customers want them with the confidence of a nationally recognized long-term warranty.

Check it out for yourself. It’s as easy as a few mouse clicks or a phone call. For dealership, installer or accessory manufacturer information about ProPledge, visit www.ProPledge.com or call 818/248-4449.

For more information about Insignia, visit www.insigniagroup.com or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA News - December 2009

Opportunity. Diversity. Confidence. Profits. Those are a few of the keys that lock in the continuing partnership between the automakers, the vehicle dealers and SEMA-member companies. Giving consumers the right vehicles with their preferred options is what each arm of the distribution chain strives for.

One huge chunk of that process is accessory-friendly vehicles—cars and trucks that are designed from the get-go to encourage owner personalization. A driver’s experience with a car or truck skyrockets when he or she can equip it to suit personal wants and needs. When that owner can buy the vehicle and select from a vast array of specialty-equipment accessories and have them professionally installed with complete confidence, another sales channel opens.

ProPledge opens that channel.

SEMA has been working on the ProPledge warranty assurance program for about three years. With the completion of a successful pilot program, ProPledge is now poised for a national roll-out. The program provides end users with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty on participating products and installation. And now, further enhancing the program for automakers, dealerships, specialty-equipment manufacturers and independent restyling companies, SEMA has partnered with Insignia, an industry-leading provider of accessory sales tools.

The ProPledge/Insignia combination is a match made in heaven for vehicle dealers. Insignia provides training, integrated catalogs and a depth of information that allows sales people to present accessory opportunities with confidence at the time a vehicle is sold. The Insignia program integrates the process from the dealership’s showroom floor to the finance and insurance department, and it offers communication links that include the dealership’s online efforts and even its parts counter. The sales team is equipped with not only the latest information about accessories for each vehicle, but also the ProPledge accessory warranty.

And, speaking of installation, Insignia also offers a program tailored specifically for restylers and independent installers who work with vehicle dealerships. Insignia helps restylers develop a portfolio of products that are available online, giving the dealer an easy-to-use system from which to purchase products. The dealership can also integrate the restyler’s accessories into its own catalog or website, providing direct-to-consumer information and an end-to-end accessory-sales solution for its customers—all of it covered by ProPledge.

The success of the recent Dealer Day program and the tens of thousands of products on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas illustrate the staggering potential for additional business in every vehicle segment. The unique ProPledge/Insignia solution allows the industry to leap over a pair of the traditional hurdles to accessory sales: warranty concerns and customer satisfaction scores. A complete sales team—one that combines OEMs, dealerships and SEMA members—can now provide customers with top-notch vehicles equipped precisely the way customers want them with the confidence of a nationally recognized long-term warranty.

Check it out for yourself. It’s as easy as a few mouse clicks or a phone call. For dealership, installer or accessory manufacturer information about ProPledge, visit www.ProPledge.com or call 818/248-4449.

For more information about Insignia, visit www.insigniagroup.com or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA News - December 2009

Opportunity. Diversity. Confidence. Profits. Those are a few of the keys that lock in the continuing partnership between the automakers, the vehicle dealers and SEMA-member companies. Giving consumers the right vehicles with their preferred options is what each arm of the distribution chain strives for.

One huge chunk of that process is accessory-friendly vehicles—cars and trucks that are designed from the get-go to encourage owner personalization. A driver’s experience with a car or truck skyrockets when he or she can equip it to suit personal wants and needs. When that owner can buy the vehicle and select from a vast array of specialty-equipment accessories and have them professionally installed with complete confidence, another sales channel opens.

ProPledge opens that channel.

SEMA has been working on the ProPledge warranty assurance program for about three years. With the completion of a successful pilot program, ProPledge is now poised for a national roll-out. The program provides end users with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty on participating products and installation. And now, further enhancing the program for automakers, dealerships, specialty-equipment manufacturers and independent restyling companies, SEMA has partnered with Insignia, an industry-leading provider of accessory sales tools.

The ProPledge/Insignia combination is a match made in heaven for vehicle dealers. Insignia provides training, integrated catalogs and a depth of information that allows sales people to present accessory opportunities with confidence at the time a vehicle is sold. The Insignia program integrates the process from the dealership’s showroom floor to the finance and insurance department, and it offers communication links that include the dealership’s online efforts and even its parts counter. The sales team is equipped with not only the latest information about accessories for each vehicle, but also the ProPledge accessory warranty.

And, speaking of installation, Insignia also offers a program tailored specifically for restylers and independent installers who work with vehicle dealerships. Insignia helps restylers develop a portfolio of products that are available online, giving the dealer an easy-to-use system from which to purchase products. The dealership can also integrate the restyler’s accessories into its own catalog or website, providing direct-to-consumer information and an end-to-end accessory-sales solution for its customers—all of it covered by ProPledge.

The success of the recent Dealer Day program and the tens of thousands of products on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas illustrate the staggering potential for additional business in every vehicle segment. The unique ProPledge/Insignia solution allows the industry to leap over a pair of the traditional hurdles to accessory sales: warranty concerns and customer satisfaction scores. A complete sales team—one that combines OEMs, dealerships and SEMA members—can now provide customers with top-notch vehicles equipped precisely the way customers want them with the confidence of a nationally recognized long-term warranty.

Check it out for yourself. It’s as easy as a few mouse clicks or a phone call. For dealership, installer or accessory manufacturer information about ProPledge, visit www.ProPledge.com or call 818/248-4449.

For more information about Insignia, visit www.insigniagroup.com or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA News - December 2009

SEMA is pleased to announce a membership benefit agreement with Insignia in support of ProPledge.

ProPledge is a program targeted to overcome the traditional barriers associated with specialty aftermarket products sold during the new-vehicle sales process—namely warranty and customer satisfaction scores (CSI). By way of ProPledge, dealers can offer customers industry-backed warranted products from participating manufacturers and restylers, ensuring dealership confidence and consumer satisfaction.

By partnering with Insignia—an industry leader in accessories sales tools and processes for new-vehicle dealerships across numerous brands—SEMA is adding additional value to the ProPledge program by providing an effective communication medium that connects aftermarket manufacturers to restylers to dealers, which ultimately communicates the ProPledge advantage to the retail consumer.

Through Insignia’s e-catalog system, specialty aftermarket manufacturers can provide the marketplace real-time product data descriptions, updated pricing and color product images. Manufacturers will gain visibility to compelling usage data, such as which products are viewed the most, on what vehicles, by what customer and what has been sold across the entire network.

Restylers can offer to dealers industry-backed products from ProPledge manufacturers that reach all the way to the dealer’s consumer. In combination with Insignia, restylers will be able to identify those products that are ProPledge-backed as well as be able to provide a comprehensive product offering all in one versatile tool.

Retail customers will be able to identify ProPledge products while shopping in the dealership and differentiate those that are industry-backed and those that are not.

“Our relationship with Insignia will provide ProPledge with the additional support and benefits we strive for entering 2010,” stated ProPlege Operations Director, Joe Sebergandio.

“Insignia will reduce the ProPledge education process for manufacturers, restylers and dealers,” says David Stringer, president of Insignia. “Through Insignia, retail customers in dealerships will gain clear visibility to what products are Pro-Pledge guaranteed. Dealers will benefit by giving the customer what they want, while at the same time protecting CSI and warranty claims. Our involvement with ProPledge is a win-win for everyone.”

Here is more information about ProPledge, or call 818/248-4900. Here is more information about Insignia, or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA Publishes Comprehensive Guide to Federal Regulation of Aftermarket Parts

SEMA’s Government Affairs Office has compiled a comprehensive guide on how motor-vehicle parts are regulated by the federal government which can be viewed at www.sema.org/fedregs. It is a must-read document for every SEMA member.

The guide is generally presented in a Q&A format, with links to online resources for more information. Topics include an overview of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, emissions standards (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California) and special sections on lighting equipment, wheels and tires and fuel economy. The guide also answers questions such as: Is my company required to register with the NHTSA? What are my obligations as an importer? What is self-certification?

Is “DOT-approved” a legal term? How is lighting equipment regulated by the federal and state government? Where can I download NHTSA rules and regulations?

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. Cozzie will oversee new-business development, processes, procedures and internal operations.

To learn more about the SEMA government affairs efforts and how your company can stay current with federal and state laws and regulations, contact Stuart Gosswein.

Jim Cozzie Joins Forces With RTM Productions

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. In his new role, Cozzie will oversee new-business development, integration of procedures and processes and harmonizing of internal operations.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the RTM team,” Cozzie said. “Joe and Patty St. Lawrence have built an incredibly strong stable of brands and properties, and I look forward to further strengthening and expanding upon those successes.”

RTM Productions produces prominent automotive TV programs, including “HorsePower,” “Trucks!,” “MuscleCar,” “Xtreme 4x4” and “PowerBlock,” all on Spike TV. In addition to its TV programming, RTM provides web, e-magazine, production and marketing solutions services. RTM Productions is located in Franklin, Tennessee. Cozzie expects the transition to be complete by January 1, 2010.

The annual MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to Covina, California—just 15 minutes from Ontario Airport—in 2010.

Media Registration Now Open for MPMC Conference

Media registration for the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference is now open. The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a three-day event where manufacturers and media take part in prescheduled, private, sit-down meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer meet with editorial staff from so many news outlets, and nowhere else can the media gather so much technical and new-product information at one time. Here are sign-up and additional details about the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference, taking place Tuesday–Thursday, January 19–21, 2010.

This year’s event has been moved to the recently renovated Radisson Suites Hotel in Covina, California. Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the Fairplex/L.A. County Fairgrounds and the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum.

FAST FACTS

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced the 2010 Grand Prize Giveaway car: the ’70 Boss Snake, a 429 Ford-powered super musclecar designed by Kaucher Kustoms and being built and assembled by Max-G Systems of Fogelsville, Pennsylvania. The Boss Snake is a concept based on the QuarterHorse Mustang, of which only two prototypes were ever built. The car’s finish will be PPG/Goodguy yellow. Goodguys members and 2010 event participants will have a chance to qualify as finalists to win the car. It will be given away at the Goodguys 13th Southwest Nationals November 19–21, 2010, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Boss Snake will debut as a finished car in March at the Goodguys 2010 season-opening event, the Spring Nationals, March 12–14 also in Scottsdale. Project sponsors include Vintage Air, Classic Instruments, Painless Performance, BFGoodrich, Flaming River, Rick’s Hot Rods, Dynacorn, Baer Brakes, Tremec, Optima Batteries, Herculiner, PEAK, Grundy Insurance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Comp Cams and Performance Rod & Custom. Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, Pleasanton, CA; 925/838-9876. Kaucher Kustoms, Santa Monica, CA; 310/656-9993.

Glen Knowles

SoffSeal Inc. hired Mark Cotter as its new national sales manager. Cotter joins SoffSeal after 16 years with Clark Industries. Cotter is part of a management team that will focus on customer service, product development and the future growth of the company. SoffSeal Inc., Harrison, OH; 513/367-0028.

The CarDomain Network Inc. selected Focus Media & Marketing for its sales representation in the Midwest. The companies will work together to reach a core audience of auto enthusiasts. The move is part of CarDomain’s ongoing expansion plans.

Rick Ross

Automotive Racing Products achieved registration for both the ISO9001 and the AS9100 quality standards. The registrations include all of the company’s facilities in Santa Paula, California, where all its products are manufactured, as well as its sales and packaging facility in Ventura, California. Both registrations were certified by National Quality Assurance USA of Acton, Massachusetts, which is accredited by ANAB.

Hennessey Performance Engineering Venom GT

Classic Recreations, manufacturer of the officially licensed Eleanor Mustang supercar from the movie Gone in 60 Seconds, selected Kahn Media to assist with an integrated public relations campaign. Kahn Media will provide Classic Recreations with North American and international media outreach and PR assistance for the company’s full range of turnkey supercars and handcrafted performance vehicles. Classic Recreations, Brodyville, TN; 877/235-3266.

Jake Plappert

T-Rex Grilles and DefenderWorx formed an exclusive marketing partnership through which T-Rex Grilles will be the exclusive aftermarket distributor of the DefenderWorx high-quality line of officially GM-licensed Camaro products. Both companies plan to work together to develop new products that can be offered to both T-Rex Grilles customers and DefenderWorx’s nationwide network of GM dealerships. T-Rex Grilles, Corona, CA; 800/287-5900. DefenderWorx, Anaheim, CA; 714/630-9700.

Patricia J. Roberts joined AskPatty.com Inc. as director of business development. She is responsible for working strategically with automotive retailers to assist them in learning how to attract, retain and increase loyalty with women customers. She will also respond to questions from consumer women on automotive-related topics via the website. Roberts brings 39 years of automotive experience to AskPatty.com and the automotive advisory panel. Prior to joining AskPatty.com, Roberts was the general director of women’s retail initiative at General Motors, where she worked to support and develop programs to increase the number of females in retailing for the company. AskPatty.com Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA; 888/745-1928.

The Eastern Motorsport Press Association will hold its annual convention at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Trevose, Pennsylvania, from January 15–17, 2010. The convention consists of a variety of press conferences featuring speedways, sanctioning organizations and race teams sharing their plans for the future. The event also includes the annual NASCAR/EMPA Hall of Fame Awards Dinner where the prestigious Al Holbert Memorial/EMPA Driver of the Year Award will be announced.

Mauro Pessi began his role as CEO of Pirelli Tire North America on October 1. Pessi has had a long association with Pirelli, most recently serving as vice president of sales and marketing and then CEO of Latin American operations. He rejoins The Pirelli Group after his departure in 2008 to become CEO at Brembo. Pessi replaces Hugh Pace, who is retiring after nearly three years as chairman and CEO of the company. Pirelli Tire North America, Rome, GA; 800/747-3554.

Boge Kompressoren

SEMA News - December 2009

SEMA is pleased to announce a membership benefit agreement with Insignia in support of ProPledge.

ProPledge is a program targeted to overcome the traditional barriers associated with specialty aftermarket products sold during the new-vehicle sales process—namely warranty and customer satisfaction scores (CSI). By way of ProPledge, dealers can offer customers industry-backed warranted products from participating manufacturers and restylers, ensuring dealership confidence and consumer satisfaction.

By partnering with Insignia—an industry leader in accessories sales tools and processes for new-vehicle dealerships across numerous brands—SEMA is adding additional value to the ProPledge program by providing an effective communication medium that connects aftermarket manufacturers to restylers to dealers, which ultimately communicates the ProPledge advantage to the retail consumer.

Through Insignia’s e-catalog system, specialty aftermarket manufacturers can provide the marketplace real-time product data descriptions, updated pricing and color product images. Manufacturers will gain visibility to compelling usage data, such as which products are viewed the most, on what vehicles, by what customer and what has been sold across the entire network.

Restylers can offer to dealers industry-backed products from ProPledge manufacturers that reach all the way to the dealer’s consumer. In combination with Insignia, restylers will be able to identify those products that are ProPledge-backed as well as be able to provide a comprehensive product offering all in one versatile tool.

Retail customers will be able to identify ProPledge products while shopping in the dealership and differentiate those that are industry-backed and those that are not.

“Our relationship with Insignia will provide ProPledge with the additional support and benefits we strive for entering 2010,” stated ProPlege Operations Director, Joe Sebergandio.

“Insignia will reduce the ProPledge education process for manufacturers, restylers and dealers,” says David Stringer, president of Insignia. “Through Insignia, retail customers in dealerships will gain clear visibility to what products are Pro-Pledge guaranteed. Dealers will benefit by giving the customer what they want, while at the same time protecting CSI and warranty claims. Our involvement with ProPledge is a win-win for everyone.”

Here is more information about ProPledge, or call 818/248-4900. Here is more information about Insignia, or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA Publishes Comprehensive Guide to Federal Regulation of Aftermarket Parts

SEMA’s Government Affairs Office has compiled a comprehensive guide on how motor-vehicle parts are regulated by the federal government which can be viewed at www.sema.org/fedregs. It is a must-read document for every SEMA member.

The guide is generally presented in a Q&A format, with links to online resources for more information. Topics include an overview of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, emissions standards (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California) and special sections on lighting equipment, wheels and tires and fuel economy. The guide also answers questions such as: Is my company required to register with the NHTSA? What are my obligations as an importer? What is self-certification?

Is “DOT-approved” a legal term? How is lighting equipment regulated by the federal and state government? Where can I download NHTSA rules and regulations?

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. Cozzie will oversee new-business development, processes, procedures and internal operations.

To learn more about the SEMA government affairs efforts and how your company can stay current with federal and state laws and regulations, contact Stuart Gosswein.

Jim Cozzie Joins Forces With RTM Productions

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. In his new role, Cozzie will oversee new-business development, integration of procedures and processes and harmonizing of internal operations.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the RTM team,” Cozzie said. “Joe and Patty St. Lawrence have built an incredibly strong stable of brands and properties, and I look forward to further strengthening and expanding upon those successes.”

RTM Productions produces prominent automotive TV programs, including “HorsePower,” “Trucks!,” “MuscleCar,” “Xtreme 4x4” and “PowerBlock,” all on Spike TV. In addition to its TV programming, RTM provides web, e-magazine, production and marketing solutions services. RTM Productions is located in Franklin, Tennessee. Cozzie expects the transition to be complete by January 1, 2010.

The annual MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to Covina, California—just 15 minutes from Ontario Airport—in 2010.

Media Registration Now Open for MPMC Conference

Media registration for the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference is now open. The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a three-day event where manufacturers and media take part in prescheduled, private, sit-down meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer meet with editorial staff from so many news outlets, and nowhere else can the media gather so much technical and new-product information at one time. Here are sign-up and additional details about the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference, taking place Tuesday–Thursday, January 19–21, 2010.

This year’s event has been moved to the recently renovated Radisson Suites Hotel in Covina, California. Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the Fairplex/L.A. County Fairgrounds and the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum.

FAST FACTS

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced the 2010 Grand Prize Giveaway car: the ’70 Boss Snake, a 429 Ford-powered super musclecar designed by Kaucher Kustoms and being built and assembled by Max-G Systems of Fogelsville, Pennsylvania. The Boss Snake is a concept based on the QuarterHorse Mustang, of which only two prototypes were ever built. The car’s finish will be PPG/Goodguy yellow. Goodguys members and 2010 event participants will have a chance to qualify as finalists to win the car. It will be given away at the Goodguys 13th Southwest Nationals November 19–21, 2010, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Boss Snake will debut as a finished car in March at the Goodguys 2010 season-opening event, the Spring Nationals, March 12–14 also in Scottsdale. Project sponsors include Vintage Air, Classic Instruments, Painless Performance, BFGoodrich, Flaming River, Rick’s Hot Rods, Dynacorn, Baer Brakes, Tremec, Optima Batteries, Herculiner, PEAK, Grundy Insurance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Comp Cams and Performance Rod & Custom. Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, Pleasanton, CA; 925/838-9876. Kaucher Kustoms, Santa Monica, CA; 310/656-9993.

Glen Knowles

SoffSeal Inc. hired Mark Cotter as its new national sales manager. Cotter joins SoffSeal after 16 years with Clark Industries. Cotter is part of a management team that will focus on customer service, product development and the future growth of the company. SoffSeal Inc., Harrison, OH; 513/367-0028.

The CarDomain Network Inc. selected Focus Media & Marketing for its sales representation in the Midwest. The companies will work together to reach a core audience of auto enthusiasts. The move is part of CarDomain’s ongoing expansion plans.

Rick Ross

Automotive Racing Products achieved registration for both the ISO9001 and the AS9100 quality standards. The registrations include all of the company’s facilities in Santa Paula, California, where all its products are manufactured, as well as its sales and packaging facility in Ventura, California. Both registrations were certified by National Quality Assurance USA of Acton, Massachusetts, which is accredited by ANAB.

Hennessey Performance Engineering Venom GT

Classic Recreations, manufacturer of the officially licensed Eleanor Mustang supercar from the movie Gone in 60 Seconds, selected Kahn Media to assist with an integrated public relations campaign. Kahn Media will provide Classic Recreations with North American and international media outreach and PR assistance for the company’s full range of turnkey supercars and handcrafted performance vehicles. Classic Recreations, Brodyville, TN; 877/235-3266.

Jake Plappert

T-Rex Grilles and DefenderWorx formed an exclusive marketing partnership through which T-Rex Grilles will be the exclusive aftermarket distributor of the DefenderWorx high-quality line of officially GM-licensed Camaro products. Both companies plan to work together to develop new products that can be offered to both T-Rex Grilles customers and DefenderWorx’s nationwide network of GM dealerships. T-Rex Grilles, Corona, CA; 800/287-5900. DefenderWorx, Anaheim, CA; 714/630-9700.

Patricia J. Roberts joined AskPatty.com Inc. as director of business development. She is responsible for working strategically with automotive retailers to assist them in learning how to attract, retain and increase loyalty with women customers. She will also respond to questions from consumer women on automotive-related topics via the website. Roberts brings 39 years of automotive experience to AskPatty.com and the automotive advisory panel. Prior to joining AskPatty.com, Roberts was the general director of women’s retail initiative at General Motors, where she worked to support and develop programs to increase the number of females in retailing for the company. AskPatty.com Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA; 888/745-1928.

The Eastern Motorsport Press Association will hold its annual convention at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Trevose, Pennsylvania, from January 15–17, 2010. The convention consists of a variety of press conferences featuring speedways, sanctioning organizations and race teams sharing their plans for the future. The event also includes the annual NASCAR/EMPA Hall of Fame Awards Dinner where the prestigious Al Holbert Memorial/EMPA Driver of the Year Award will be announced.

Mauro Pessi began his role as CEO of Pirelli Tire North America on October 1. Pessi has had a long association with Pirelli, most recently serving as vice president of sales and marketing and then CEO of Latin American operations. He rejoins The Pirelli Group after his departure in 2008 to become CEO at Brembo. Pessi replaces Hugh Pace, who is retiring after nearly three years as chairman and CEO of the company. Pirelli Tire North America, Rome, GA; 800/747-3554.

Boge Kompressoren

SEMA News - December 2009

SEMA is pleased to announce a membership benefit agreement with Insignia in support of ProPledge.

ProPledge is a program targeted to overcome the traditional barriers associated with specialty aftermarket products sold during the new-vehicle sales process—namely warranty and customer satisfaction scores (CSI). By way of ProPledge, dealers can offer customers industry-backed warranted products from participating manufacturers and restylers, ensuring dealership confidence and consumer satisfaction.

By partnering with Insignia—an industry leader in accessories sales tools and processes for new-vehicle dealerships across numerous brands—SEMA is adding additional value to the ProPledge program by providing an effective communication medium that connects aftermarket manufacturers to restylers to dealers, which ultimately communicates the ProPledge advantage to the retail consumer.

Through Insignia’s e-catalog system, specialty aftermarket manufacturers can provide the marketplace real-time product data descriptions, updated pricing and color product images. Manufacturers will gain visibility to compelling usage data, such as which products are viewed the most, on what vehicles, by what customer and what has been sold across the entire network.

Restylers can offer to dealers industry-backed products from ProPledge manufacturers that reach all the way to the dealer’s consumer. In combination with Insignia, restylers will be able to identify those products that are ProPledge-backed as well as be able to provide a comprehensive product offering all in one versatile tool.

Retail customers will be able to identify ProPledge products while shopping in the dealership and differentiate those that are industry-backed and those that are not.

“Our relationship with Insignia will provide ProPledge with the additional support and benefits we strive for entering 2010,” stated ProPlege Operations Director, Joe Sebergandio.

“Insignia will reduce the ProPledge education process for manufacturers, restylers and dealers,” says David Stringer, president of Insignia. “Through Insignia, retail customers in dealerships will gain clear visibility to what products are Pro-Pledge guaranteed. Dealers will benefit by giving the customer what they want, while at the same time protecting CSI and warranty claims. Our involvement with ProPledge is a win-win for everyone.”

Here is more information about ProPledge, or call 818/248-4900. Here is more information about Insignia, or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA Publishes Comprehensive Guide to Federal Regulation of Aftermarket Parts

SEMA’s Government Affairs Office has compiled a comprehensive guide on how motor-vehicle parts are regulated by the federal government which can be viewed at www.sema.org/fedregs. It is a must-read document for every SEMA member.

The guide is generally presented in a Q&A format, with links to online resources for more information. Topics include an overview of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, emissions standards (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California) and special sections on lighting equipment, wheels and tires and fuel economy. The guide also answers questions such as: Is my company required to register with the NHTSA? What are my obligations as an importer? What is self-certification?

Is “DOT-approved” a legal term? How is lighting equipment regulated by the federal and state government? Where can I download NHTSA rules and regulations?

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. Cozzie will oversee new-business development, processes, procedures and internal operations.

To learn more about the SEMA government affairs efforts and how your company can stay current with federal and state laws and regulations, contact Stuart Gosswein.

Jim Cozzie Joins Forces With RTM Productions

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. In his new role, Cozzie will oversee new-business development, integration of procedures and processes and harmonizing of internal operations.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the RTM team,” Cozzie said. “Joe and Patty St. Lawrence have built an incredibly strong stable of brands and properties, and I look forward to further strengthening and expanding upon those successes.”

RTM Productions produces prominent automotive TV programs, including “HorsePower,” “Trucks!,” “MuscleCar,” “Xtreme 4x4” and “PowerBlock,” all on Spike TV. In addition to its TV programming, RTM provides web, e-magazine, production and marketing solutions services. RTM Productions is located in Franklin, Tennessee. Cozzie expects the transition to be complete by January 1, 2010.

The annual MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to Covina, California—just 15 minutes from Ontario Airport—in 2010.

Media Registration Now Open for MPMC Conference

Media registration for the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference is now open. The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a three-day event where manufacturers and media take part in prescheduled, private, sit-down meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer meet with editorial staff from so many news outlets, and nowhere else can the media gather so much technical and new-product information at one time. Here are sign-up and additional details about the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference, taking place Tuesday–Thursday, January 19–21, 2010.

This year’s event has been moved to the recently renovated Radisson Suites Hotel in Covina, California. Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the Fairplex/L.A. County Fairgrounds and the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum.

FAST FACTS

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced the 2010 Grand Prize Giveaway car: the ’70 Boss Snake, a 429 Ford-powered super musclecar designed by Kaucher Kustoms and being built and assembled by Max-G Systems of Fogelsville, Pennsylvania. The Boss Snake is a concept based on the QuarterHorse Mustang, of which only two prototypes were ever built. The car’s finish will be PPG/Goodguy yellow. Goodguys members and 2010 event participants will have a chance to qualify as finalists to win the car. It will be given away at the Goodguys 13th Southwest Nationals November 19–21, 2010, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Boss Snake will debut as a finished car in March at the Goodguys 2010 season-opening event, the Spring Nationals, March 12–14 also in Scottsdale. Project sponsors include Vintage Air, Classic Instruments, Painless Performance, BFGoodrich, Flaming River, Rick’s Hot Rods, Dynacorn, Baer Brakes, Tremec, Optima Batteries, Herculiner, PEAK, Grundy Insurance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Comp Cams and Performance Rod & Custom. Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, Pleasanton, CA; 925/838-9876. Kaucher Kustoms, Santa Monica, CA; 310/656-9993.

Glen Knowles

SoffSeal Inc. hired Mark Cotter as its new national sales manager. Cotter joins SoffSeal after 16 years with Clark Industries. Cotter is part of a management team that will focus on customer service, product development and the future growth of the company. SoffSeal Inc., Harrison, OH; 513/367-0028.

The CarDomain Network Inc. selected Focus Media & Marketing for its sales representation in the Midwest. The companies will work together to reach a core audience of auto enthusiasts. The move is part of CarDomain’s ongoing expansion plans.

Rick Ross

Automotive Racing Products achieved registration for both the ISO9001 and the AS9100 quality standards. The registrations include all of the company’s facilities in Santa Paula, California, where all its products are manufactured, as well as its sales and packaging facility in Ventura, California. Both registrations were certified by National Quality Assurance USA of Acton, Massachusetts, which is accredited by ANAB.

Hennessey Performance Engineering Venom GT

Classic Recreations, manufacturer of the officially licensed Eleanor Mustang supercar from the movie Gone in 60 Seconds, selected Kahn Media to assist with an integrated public relations campaign. Kahn Media will provide Classic Recreations with North American and international media outreach and PR assistance for the company’s full range of turnkey supercars and handcrafted performance vehicles. Classic Recreations, Brodyville, TN; 877/235-3266.

Jake Plappert

T-Rex Grilles and DefenderWorx formed an exclusive marketing partnership through which T-Rex Grilles will be the exclusive aftermarket distributor of the DefenderWorx high-quality line of officially GM-licensed Camaro products. Both companies plan to work together to develop new products that can be offered to both T-Rex Grilles customers and DefenderWorx’s nationwide network of GM dealerships. T-Rex Grilles, Corona, CA; 800/287-5900. DefenderWorx, Anaheim, CA; 714/630-9700.

Patricia J. Roberts joined AskPatty.com Inc. as director of business development. She is responsible for working strategically with automotive retailers to assist them in learning how to attract, retain and increase loyalty with women customers. She will also respond to questions from consumer women on automotive-related topics via the website. Roberts brings 39 years of automotive experience to AskPatty.com and the automotive advisory panel. Prior to joining AskPatty.com, Roberts was the general director of women’s retail initiative at General Motors, where she worked to support and develop programs to increase the number of females in retailing for the company. AskPatty.com Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA; 888/745-1928.

The Eastern Motorsport Press Association will hold its annual convention at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Trevose, Pennsylvania, from January 15–17, 2010. The convention consists of a variety of press conferences featuring speedways, sanctioning organizations and race teams sharing their plans for the future. The event also includes the annual NASCAR/EMPA Hall of Fame Awards Dinner where the prestigious Al Holbert Memorial/EMPA Driver of the Year Award will be announced.

Mauro Pessi began his role as CEO of Pirelli Tire North America on October 1. Pessi has had a long association with Pirelli, most recently serving as vice president of sales and marketing and then CEO of Latin American operations. He rejoins The Pirelli Group after his departure in 2008 to become CEO at Brembo. Pessi replaces Hugh Pace, who is retiring after nearly three years as chairman and CEO of the company. Pirelli Tire North America, Rome, GA; 800/747-3554.

Boge Kompressoren

SEMA News - December 2009

SEMA is pleased to announce a membership benefit agreement with Insignia in support of ProPledge.

ProPledge is a program targeted to overcome the traditional barriers associated with specialty aftermarket products sold during the new-vehicle sales process—namely warranty and customer satisfaction scores (CSI). By way of ProPledge, dealers can offer customers industry-backed warranted products from participating manufacturers and restylers, ensuring dealership confidence and consumer satisfaction.

By partnering with Insignia—an industry leader in accessories sales tools and processes for new-vehicle dealerships across numerous brands—SEMA is adding additional value to the ProPledge program by providing an effective communication medium that connects aftermarket manufacturers to restylers to dealers, which ultimately communicates the ProPledge advantage to the retail consumer.

Through Insignia’s e-catalog system, specialty aftermarket manufacturers can provide the marketplace real-time product data descriptions, updated pricing and color product images. Manufacturers will gain visibility to compelling usage data, such as which products are viewed the most, on what vehicles, by what customer and what has been sold across the entire network.

Restylers can offer to dealers industry-backed products from ProPledge manufacturers that reach all the way to the dealer’s consumer. In combination with Insignia, restylers will be able to identify those products that are ProPledge-backed as well as be able to provide a comprehensive product offering all in one versatile tool.

Retail customers will be able to identify ProPledge products while shopping in the dealership and differentiate those that are industry-backed and those that are not.

“Our relationship with Insignia will provide ProPledge with the additional support and benefits we strive for entering 2010,” stated ProPlege Operations Director, Joe Sebergandio.

“Insignia will reduce the ProPledge education process for manufacturers, restylers and dealers,” says David Stringer, president of Insignia. “Through Insignia, retail customers in dealerships will gain clear visibility to what products are Pro-Pledge guaranteed. Dealers will benefit by giving the customer what they want, while at the same time protecting CSI and warranty claims. Our involvement with ProPledge is a win-win for everyone.”

Here is more information about ProPledge, or call 818/248-4900. Here is more information about Insignia, or call 888/579-4458.

SEMA Publishes Comprehensive Guide to Federal Regulation of Aftermarket Parts

SEMA’s Government Affairs Office has compiled a comprehensive guide on how motor-vehicle parts are regulated by the federal government which can be viewed at www.sema.org/fedregs. It is a must-read document for every SEMA member.

The guide is generally presented in a Q&A format, with links to online resources for more information. Topics include an overview of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, emissions standards (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California) and special sections on lighting equipment, wheels and tires and fuel economy. The guide also answers questions such as: Is my company required to register with the NHTSA? What are my obligations as an importer? What is self-certification?

Is “DOT-approved” a legal term? How is lighting equipment regulated by the federal and state government? Where can I download NHTSA rules and regulations?

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. Cozzie will oversee new-business development, processes, procedures and internal operations.

To learn more about the SEMA government affairs efforts and how your company can stay current with federal and state laws and regulations, contact Stuart Gosswein.

Jim Cozzie Joins Forces With RTM Productions

SEMA Immediate-Past Chairman Jim Cozzie has joined RTM Productions as executive vice president. In his new role, Cozzie will oversee new-business development, integration of procedures and processes and harmonizing of internal operations.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the RTM team,” Cozzie said. “Joe and Patty St. Lawrence have built an incredibly strong stable of brands and properties, and I look forward to further strengthening and expanding upon those successes.”

RTM Productions produces prominent automotive TV programs, including “HorsePower,” “Trucks!,” “MuscleCar,” “Xtreme 4x4” and “PowerBlock,” all on Spike TV. In addition to its TV programming, RTM provides web, e-magazine, production and marketing solutions services. RTM Productions is located in Franklin, Tennessee. Cozzie expects the transition to be complete by January 1, 2010.

The annual MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to Covina, California—just 15 minutes from Ontario Airport—in 2010.

Media Registration Now Open for MPMC Conference

Media registration for the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference is now open. The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a three-day event where manufacturers and media take part in prescheduled, private, sit-down meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer meet with editorial staff from so many news outlets, and nowhere else can the media gather so much technical and new-product information at one time. Here are sign-up and additional details about the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference, taking place Tuesday–Thursday, January 19–21, 2010.

This year’s event has been moved to the recently renovated Radisson Suites Hotel in Covina, California. Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the Fairplex/L.A. County Fairgrounds and the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum.

FAST FACTS

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced the 2010 Grand Prize Giveaway car: the ’70 Boss Snake, a 429 Ford-powered super musclecar designed by Kaucher Kustoms and being built and assembled by Max-G Systems of Fogelsville, Pennsylvania. The Boss Snake is a concept based on the QuarterHorse Mustang, of which only two prototypes were ever built. The car’s finish will be PPG/Goodguy yellow. Goodguys members and 2010 event participants will have a chance to qualify as finalists to win the car. It will be given away at the Goodguys 13th Southwest Nationals November 19–21, 2010, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Boss Snake will debut as a finished car in March at the Goodguys 2010 season-opening event, the Spring Nationals, March 12–14 also in Scottsdale. Project sponsors include Vintage Air, Classic Instruments, Painless Performance, BFGoodrich, Flaming River, Rick’s Hot Rods, Dynacorn, Baer Brakes, Tremec, Optima Batteries, Herculiner, PEAK, Grundy Insurance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Comp Cams and Performance Rod & Custom. Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, Pleasanton, CA; 925/838-9876. Kaucher Kustoms, Santa Monica, CA; 310/656-9993.

Glen Knowles

SoffSeal Inc. hired Mark Cotter as its new national sales manager. Cotter joins SoffSeal after 16 years with Clark Industries. Cotter is part of a management team that will focus on customer service, product development and the future growth of the company. SoffSeal Inc., Harrison, OH; 513/367-0028.

The CarDomain Network Inc. selected Focus Media & Marketing for its sales representation in the Midwest. The companies will work together to reach a core audience of auto enthusiasts. The move is part of CarDomain’s ongoing expansion plans.

Rick Ross

Automotive Racing Products achieved registration for both the ISO9001 and the AS9100 quality standards. The registrations include all of the company’s facilities in Santa Paula, California, where all its products are manufactured, as well as its sales and packaging facility in Ventura, California. Both registrations were certified by National Quality Assurance USA of Acton, Massachusetts, which is accredited by ANAB.

Hennessey Performance Engineering Venom GT

Classic Recreations, manufacturer of the officially licensed Eleanor Mustang supercar from the movie Gone in 60 Seconds, selected Kahn Media to assist with an integrated public relations campaign. Kahn Media will provide Classic Recreations with North American and international media outreach and PR assistance for the company’s full range of turnkey supercars and handcrafted performance vehicles. Classic Recreations, Brodyville, TN; 877/235-3266.

Jake Plappert

T-Rex Grilles and DefenderWorx formed an exclusive marketing partnership through which T-Rex Grilles will be the exclusive aftermarket distributor of the DefenderWorx high-quality line of officially GM-licensed Camaro products. Both companies plan to work together to develop new products that can be offered to both T-Rex Grilles customers and DefenderWorx’s nationwide network of GM dealerships. T-Rex Grilles, Corona, CA; 800/287-5900. DefenderWorx, Anaheim, CA; 714/630-9700.

Patricia J. Roberts joined AskPatty.com Inc. as director of business development. She is responsible for working strategically with automotive retailers to assist them in learning how to attract, retain and increase loyalty with women customers. She will also respond to questions from consumer women on automotive-related topics via the website. Roberts brings 39 years of automotive experience to AskPatty.com and the automotive advisory panel. Prior to joining AskPatty.com, Roberts was the general director of women’s retail initiative at General Motors, where she worked to support and develop programs to increase the number of females in retailing for the company. AskPatty.com Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA; 888/745-1928.

The Eastern Motorsport Press Association will hold its annual convention at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Trevose, Pennsylvania, from January 15–17, 2010. The convention consists of a variety of press conferences featuring speedways, sanctioning organizations and race teams sharing their plans for the future. The event also includes the annual NASCAR/EMPA Hall of Fame Awards Dinner where the prestigious Al Holbert Memorial/EMPA Driver of the Year Award will be announced.

Mauro Pessi began his role as CEO of Pirelli Tire North America on October 1. Pessi has had a long association with Pirelli, most recently serving as vice president of sales and marketing and then CEO of Latin American operations. He rejoins The Pirelli Group after his departure in 2008 to become CEO at Brembo. Pessi replaces Hugh Pace, who is retiring after nearly three years as chairman and CEO of the company. Pirelli Tire North America, Rome, GA; 800/747-3554.

Boge Kompressoren

SEMA News - December 2009

Spy Shots: Toyota FT-86, BMW M5, Lexus LF-A, Mitsubishi cX

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

Toyota FT-86

When It Hits: Production of the FT-86 in Japan is expected near the end of 2011.

What Priddy Says: While the Toyota FT-86 concept won’t officially debut for a couple of weeks at the Tokyo Motor Show, testing for the production model has already begun. Priddy’s shooters caught this bizarre-looking mule—one part Cadillac CTS, one part Volkswagen Corrado—lapping the Nürburgring. “Identified by our European spies as a FT-86 mule, this development car appears to be one car in the front and a totally different car from the B-pillar rearward,” Priddy says. “The air diffuser that looks to be made from tape and cardboard sitting atop the trunk lid is our favorite part!” When this car starts production, it will likely have its rear wheel powered by a 2.0L Subaru Boxer engine. The overall size of the car should be slightly bigger than a Pontiac Solstice.

BMW M5

When It Hits: Production is expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2010 as a 2011 model.

What Priddy Says: BMW’s M division has started testing of its seriously fast M5 sedan, and Priddy has some revealing photos of a Nürburgring shakedown. Up front, expect an M-style front fascia with larger, more aggressive intakes along with “M” fender vents. Out back is the traditional M quad-exhaust setup. This photo also shows larger brakes with cross-drilled rotors and sportier wheels and tires. The current M5 is powered by a 5.0L V10, but this latest M5 may receive the twin-turbo, direct-injected 4.4L V8 used in the X5 and X6 “M” models.

Lexus LF-A

When It Hits: The Lexus LF-A is expected to go on sale in 2010.

What Priddy Says: With cameras mounted inside and even a camera car ahead, Priddy’s photographers caught the upcoming Lexus LF-A supercar in Hollywood mode with nearly zero camouflage. The most ambitious effort yet from Lexus, the LF-A is expected to arrive with a 4.8L front-/mid-mounted V10 making more than 550 hp. It’s also expected to carry an appropriately powerful price when it goes on sale—around $400,000.

Mitsubishi cX

When It Hits: This five-passenger CUV will be a global product and will go on sale first in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2010. European sales will start shortly after in early 2011.

What Priddy Says: Mitsubishi first showed off its cX crossover concept at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, and the sub-Outlander CUV has now hit the roads in Europe. Priddy’s photographers captured these snaps of a near-production-ready cX.

“The overall shape of the cX concept seems intact, although it looks as if the production model has grown a bit, especially behind the rear doors,” Priddy said. “It comes as no surprise that Mitsubishi’s ‘fighter-jet’ nose—along with aggressive headlights and taillights—appear on this test car. We can also see that the character lines on the doors of the cX concept have translated to the production model.”

It’s still unclear whether this new car will ride on Mitsubishi’s Colt or GS platform (the latter underpinning the Lancer). Power is expected from a line of naturally aspirated four cylinders, the top-line model possibly offering a turbocharged powerplant.

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

SEMA News - December 2009

Spy Shots: Toyota FT-86, BMW M5, Lexus LF-A, Mitsubishi cX

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

Toyota FT-86

When It Hits: Production of the FT-86 in Japan is expected near the end of 2011.

What Priddy Says: While the Toyota FT-86 concept won’t officially debut for a couple of weeks at the Tokyo Motor Show, testing for the production model has already begun. Priddy’s shooters caught this bizarre-looking mule—one part Cadillac CTS, one part Volkswagen Corrado—lapping the Nürburgring. “Identified by our European spies as a FT-86 mule, this development car appears to be one car in the front and a totally different car from the B-pillar rearward,” Priddy says. “The air diffuser that looks to be made from tape and cardboard sitting atop the trunk lid is our favorite part!” When this car starts production, it will likely have its rear wheel powered by a 2.0L Subaru Boxer engine. The overall size of the car should be slightly bigger than a Pontiac Solstice.

BMW M5

When It Hits: Production is expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2010 as a 2011 model.

What Priddy Says: BMW’s M division has started testing of its seriously fast M5 sedan, and Priddy has some revealing photos of a Nürburgring shakedown. Up front, expect an M-style front fascia with larger, more aggressive intakes along with “M” fender vents. Out back is the traditional M quad-exhaust setup. This photo also shows larger brakes with cross-drilled rotors and sportier wheels and tires. The current M5 is powered by a 5.0L V10, but this latest M5 may receive the twin-turbo, direct-injected 4.4L V8 used in the X5 and X6 “M” models.

Lexus LF-A

When It Hits: The Lexus LF-A is expected to go on sale in 2010.

What Priddy Says: With cameras mounted inside and even a camera car ahead, Priddy’s photographers caught the upcoming Lexus LF-A supercar in Hollywood mode with nearly zero camouflage. The most ambitious effort yet from Lexus, the LF-A is expected to arrive with a 4.8L front-/mid-mounted V10 making more than 550 hp. It’s also expected to carry an appropriately powerful price when it goes on sale—around $400,000.

Mitsubishi cX

When It Hits: This five-passenger CUV will be a global product and will go on sale first in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2010. European sales will start shortly after in early 2011.

What Priddy Says: Mitsubishi first showed off its cX crossover concept at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, and the sub-Outlander CUV has now hit the roads in Europe. Priddy’s photographers captured these snaps of a near-production-ready cX.

“The overall shape of the cX concept seems intact, although it looks as if the production model has grown a bit, especially behind the rear doors,” Priddy said. “It comes as no surprise that Mitsubishi’s ‘fighter-jet’ nose—along with aggressive headlights and taillights—appear on this test car. We can also see that the character lines on the doors of the cX concept have translated to the production model.”

It’s still unclear whether this new car will ride on Mitsubishi’s Colt or GS platform (the latter underpinning the Lancer). Power is expected from a line of naturally aspirated four cylinders, the top-line model possibly offering a turbocharged powerplant.

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