Yet another prototype of the 992 GT3 RS has been spotted at the German Nürburgring race circuit. There are multiple clues showing this to the Rennsport model.
For starters, the early development stage seems to fall in line with the life cycle of the 992, and the air extractors on the front wings have 3RS written all over them. Quite impressive is the super-sized rear wing, which seems more suitable for a race car than a street car. However, considering that the “standard” GT3 has been spotted testing with a wing that can easily rival that of the ex-generation GT3 RS, it would only be normal for the future 992 GT3 RS to pack this sort of downforce hardware.
The central exhaust tips are traditional for such a machine and these should be linked to a naturally aspirated engine—as the soundtrack of multiple “standard” GT3 testers has already confirmed, this will maintain an atmospheric engine, with a 4.0L flat-six delivering 500+ hp. As such, the RS model should deliver an output premium of at least 20 hp.
And while the GT3 will once again offer a manual transmission alongside its PDK (prototypes have shown that, this time around, the Touring will also offer both transmissions), the lap time dedication of the RS means there will be no manual for this model.
Yet another prototype of the 992 GT3 RS has been spotted at the German Nürburgring race circuit. There are multiple clues showing this to the Rennsport model.
For starters, the early development stage seems to fall in line with the life cycle of the 992, and the air extractors on the front wings have 3RS written all over them. Quite impressive is the super-sized rear wing, which seems more suitable for a race car than a street car. However, considering that the “standard” GT3 has been spotted testing with a wing that can easily rival that of the ex-generation GT3 RS, it would only be normal for the future 992 GT3 RS to pack this sort of downforce hardware.
The central exhaust tips are traditional for such a machine and these should be linked to a naturally aspirated engine—as the soundtrack of multiple “standard” GT3 testers has already confirmed, this will maintain an atmospheric engine, with a 4.0L flat-six delivering 500+ hp. As such, the RS model should deliver an output premium of at least 20 hp.
And while the GT3 will once again offer a manual transmission alongside its PDK (prototypes have shown that, this time around, the Touring will also offer both transmissions), the lap time dedication of the RS means there will be no manual for this model.
Eric Morley, president of Blue C Advertising, is the latest SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) member to share his insight on how his company has pivoted during the pandemic and utilized technology to keep his business moving forward.
In his Q&A with SEMA, Holmes shares his key to success and what new marketing trends he has noticed throughout the past year.
SEMA: How has your company pivoted during the pandemic?
Eric Morley: For more than 20 years, we have built brands and provided marketing communications and proving grounds for brands in the OEM, automotive aftermarket, powersports and motorsports industry. Through the pandemic, we have included a strong focus on electric transportation, the components, and the engineering and proving grounds that support these vehicles.
SEMA: What technology tools, new or old, have you leaned on recently?
EM: Our tools consist of the BrandPWR platform, which has six systems including 1) BrandPWR Clarify (brand strategy), 2) BrandPWR Amplify Marketing Road map for success, 3) BrandPWR Infuse (creative campaign development), 4) BrandPWR Integrate (digital marketing), 5) BrandPWR Engage—social media and content marketing, and 6) BrandPwr Proof—proving that the brand/product and service exceeds expectations and communicating this to the world through strategic content and partnerships.
SEMA: What new trends have you noticed with sales and marketing?
EM: Trend 1: Brands need to pivot, focus on who their customer is and know that customer better than their competition. Trend 2: Brands need to be relevant for the “next new normal” that we are in now. Trend 3: Brands need a marketing road map to achieve their goals.
Every year, Blue C creates a free document that provides insights to the marketing outlook for the year. Here is our 2021 marketing outlook.
SEMA: What, if any, changes in business do you feel will outlive the pandemic?
EM: It’s okay to refresh your brand and make it relative to the market of today. Understand it is the story that your brand has that connects with current buyers and future prospective buyers. Planning and creating a road map is the key to success.
Fill out this form for a chance to be featured in the next ETTN member insight. By sharing your experiences, you can inspire and motivate other members to learn new tips and ideas. You may also be featured on ETTN’s social media and in SEMA eNews.
Truck and off-road vehicle builders are invited to apply to showcase their vehicles in a premium spot at the 2021 SEMA Show through the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle program.
Designed to generate awareness and give exposure to builders and the manufacturers whose parts are installed on each vehicle, the program is now accepting applications from builds in the areas of Jeep/Bronco, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland and off-road.
Six vehicles will be selected to participate this year, with one vehicle featured in the TORA booth, and the other five displayed in premier locations outside of the new West Hall.
The Austin Hatcher Foundation STEM-based
Industrial Arts Education/Therapy program, the “Keiki
Cobra” Factory Five MK4 Roadster was funded in
part by a grant from the Kawasaki Family Foundation.
Survivors and current pediatric cancer patients are helping to customize a special vehicle build heading to the 2021 SEMA Show.
As part of The Austin Hatcher Foundation (a SEMA Cares charity) STEM-based Industrial Arts Education/Therapy program, the “Keiki Cobra” Factory Five MK4 Roadster was funded in part by a grant from the Kawasaki Family Foundation and will be on display at the SEMA Show in the Wheel Vintiques Booth.
“Learning your child has cancer is devastating to a family in so many ways,” says Rose Kawasaki, Austin Hatcher board member. “The effect of chemotherapy on the child causes degeneration of cognitive and dexterity abilities, and the Industrial Arts Program is designed to help rebuild those abilities while also engaging the whole family in a fun and educational project. That is why the Kawasaki Family Foundation feels so blessed to be a part of this build.”
Survivors and current pediatric cancer patients are
helping to customize a special vehicle build heading to
the 2021 SEMA Show.
The vehicle name “Keiki Cobra” highlights the mission behind the build, as “Keiki” is the Hawaiian word for “child” and exemplifies the patients that will primarily be building it. Once the vehicle is completely assembled and ready for sale, it will be taken to auction in Spring 2022 to raise much-needed funds that allow the foundation to continue offering services at no cost to families.
Through supporting the work done by charities, such as The Austin Hatcher Foundation, SEMA Cares is able to improve the quality of life and make a positive impact beyond the automotive community. To learn more about the SEMA Cares mission or to make a donation, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares.
Iconic Images From Last Weekend’s Unforgettable Indy 500
More than 135,000 fans were safely in attendance at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where Helio Castroneves secured his fourth 500 win. View images from the event.
NASCAR Shifts Second Race in Camping World Truck Series Playoffs
Due to logistical challenges resulting from the ongoing pandemic, NASCAR has shifted the second race in the Camping World Truck Series playoffs. Originally scheduled to take place in Ontario, Canada, at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, the Truck Series will now visit Darlington Raceway. The race will be the first of a Sunday playoffs doubleheader at Darlington and will begin at its originally scheduled time (Sunday, September 5, at 1:30 p.m. (EDT), live on FS1). The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs will kick off its 10-week playoff run later that evening (6 p.m. ET, live on NBCSN).
Jim Farley and Lyn St. James. Photo courtesy of Ford Performance.
Lyn St. James Honored With Spirit of Ford Award
Lyn St. James, a pioneer in sports car and Indy car racing who has since become a tireless promoter for opportunities for women and minorities in the sport, was presented the Spirit of Ford Award as part of the 26th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. The award is Ford Motor Company’s highest honor in auto racing, recognizing lifetime achievement and contribution to the industry on and off the race track. St. James becomes the 27th recipient, joining an international list of honorees from all forms of racing and racing media. For more information, visit performance.ford.com.
The all Mopar-powered event is scheduled for September 17–19 at
Beech Bend Raceway.
2021 Holley MoParty Registration Opens
Holley has announced participant pre-registration is now open for the second annual MoParty. The all Mopar-powered event is scheduled for September 17–19 at Beech Bend Raceway. The event is dedicated to anything Mopar powered, including both classics and late models, as well as non-Mopar vehicles with Mopar powerplants. Popular event segments include numerous drag-racing classes, autocross, a Grand Champion event, the burnout challenge, car show classes, a vendor midway and swap meet and more. Holley’s MoParty will also feature the rare opportunity to see some of NASCAR’s legendary wing cars, including those driven by Richard Petty, Bobby Allison and more in honorary parade laps. For more information, visit moparty.com.
Road America to Open Paddock For IndyCar, IMSA Events
Road America has announced attendees can now access the paddock for the NTT IndyCar REV Group Grand Prix presented by American Medical Response set for June 17–20. Additionally, fans are welcome in the paddock for the IMSA SportsCar Weekend on August 5–8. All ticketholders can access the area free of charge. The June Grand Prix event will also feature Vintage Indy and the Radical Cup series, along with Pro 2000 and USF2000, both development series of the Road to Indy presented by Cooper Tires. Additionally, all first responders, including police, fire and EMS will receive free tickets for the event by showing proof of active status at the gate in the form of a department-issued ID or badge. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit roadamerica.com.
Turn 14 Distribution Announces Return of T14 Meet, June 12
Turn 14 Distribution has announced the return of its show, the “T14 x Pit+Paddock Meet,” presented by KW Suspensions. The event will take place June 12, from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., at the company's 234,000-sq.-ft. distribution center, located at 3035 Campus Dr., Hatfield, PA. This year, Turn 14 Distribution has teamed up with the online automotive magazine Pit+Paddock. The event will mark the final stop for Pit+Paddock’s second iteration of “The Drivers Project.” Expect to see a variety of performance vehicles of all makes and models throughout the show. Registration is mandatory this year, and each entrant will have the chance to win an award in one of six distinct categories, including Modern Performance, Domestic Performance, European Performance, Truck & Off-Road, Hybrid/EV, and Overall Best in Show. Local and regional performance shops will promote services along with showcasing their own automotive builds. The event will also feature live entertainment courtesy of two DJs on-site, a hospitality area with seating and shade, and food trucks offering refreshments and food for purchase. Pit+Paddock will publish online event coverage following the event. Additional information regarding the event is available on Turn 14 Distribution’s social media pages.
Warn Industries Acquires Fabtech Industries Inc.
Warn Industries has announced the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Fabtech Industries Inc., a manufacturer of aftermarket suspensions for light trucks, Jeeps and SUVs. Fabtech’s product offerings include suspension systems, shocks and leveling kits. The company was founded in 1989 as a custom fabrication firm specializing in racing suspension systems and Prerunner builds, cages, bumpers and other products. Today, the company has more than 2,000 SKUs in its portfolio.
Adam Trowbridge
Westin Automotive Announces Changes to Organizational Structure
Westin Automotive has announced that Adam Trowbridge has been promoted to COO, which will include responsibility for D.C. operations, product management and marketing. As Westin COO, Trowbridge’s experience and ability to execute will help drive the future success of the business as it grows. Westin’s leadership moves are part of a strategic plan designed to better align operations across the organization and accelerate the company’s long-term growth plans.
MagnaFlow Adds Cary Redman to Sales Leadership
MagnaFlow has announced the hire of Cary Redman as the director of retail sales. In his new role, Redman’s focus will be on strengthening relationships with major retailers for the MagnaFlow and BRExhaust brands. He will lead the retail sales and sales management team to define and coordinate goals, optimize regional coverage, and execute the annual sales plan. Before joining MagnaFlow, Redman had served as vice president at Edelbrock, where he oversaw brand management activities, along with the conceptualization and implementation of market segment strategies. Prior, he spent nearly 15 years in sales management with Prestolite Performance and Holley Performance, with a focus on product marketing, account acquisition and maintenance, and relationships with retailers at both a national and regional level. Redman reports to MagnaFlow Senior Vice President of Sales Kevin German.
Lubrication Specialties Inc. (LSI) has announced the addition of Hollie Maxymillian, a veteran automotive retail marketing specialist, to serve as the company’s new Hot Shot’s Secret product manager. The new position was filled to help ensure Hot Shot’s Secret’s branding presence is leveraged across multiple channels—direct, online and retail—and including national and international sales, according to the company. Reporting to LSI President Brett Tennar, Maxymillian will review all current Hot Shot’s Secret distribution to capitalize on retail advertising opportunities, co-op programs, shelf placement, in-store and eCommerce promotions. She will also help develop an omnichannel approach to broaden the reach to DIY and DIFM end customers. Maxymillian holds more than 20 years of marketing experience, having held positions with Calumet Specialty Products in Houston, ITW Global Brands in Houston, and Katalyst Marketing Group.
FUELAB Debuts Lifetime Warranty on All Products
FUELAB has launched a “Forever Fixed” lifetime warranty on all FUELAB-branded products, the company has announced. The new warranty covers the original purchaser against all material or workmanship defects for the life of the product. This new coverage is effective immediately and allows the original purchaser to return the product(s) to FUELAB directly for repair or replacement. The “Forever Fixed” warranty does not cover damage from standard wear and tear, modifications by the end-user, accidents or when the product is used for something besides its intended purpose.
Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.
The gala will take place in the new West Hall of the Las
Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), the same venue
where thousands of industry professionals will
congregate for the 2021 SEMA Show in November.
The SEMA Installation Gala is a long-established tradition where individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry are honored and celebrated.
Join SEMA leadership, volunteers and industry icons at the SEMA Installation Gala, Friday, July 30, in Las Vegas, to honor 2021's SEMA Hall of fame Inductees—Jessi Combs, Rick Love, Bob Moore and Carl Schiefer. The gala will take place in the new West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), the same venue where thousands of industry professionals will congregate for the 2021 SEMA Show in November.
Since its inception in 1976, the SEMA Installation Gala has served as the formal gathering where new SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced, the incoming Board of Directors is sworn in, and outgoing Directors are thanked. SEMA council, network and industry leaders are also recognized during the event.
The evening will feature cocktails, networking and dinner. Seating is limited. For more information and to register, visit www.sema.org/gala.
Even though the deadline to participate in the 2021 SEMA Show Space Selection process has passed, it’s never too late to register to exhibit.
Exhibiting at the 2021 SEMA Show puts your latest products in front of thousands of qualified buyers from every segment of the specialty-equipment industry, including buyers looking for your products. The 2021 SEMA Show already has more than 1,500 companies confirmed to exhibit and many more expected before the event takes place in November.
Registration for the 2021 SEMA Show is offered in three categories—attendee, exhibitor, and media—and everyone must qualify to receive a badge and attend.
Eric Morley, president of Blue C Advertising, is the latest 
Truck and off-road vehicle builders are invited to apply to showcase their vehicles in a premium spot at the 2021 SEMA Show through the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle program.
