SEMA News—June 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

 Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

’22 Bronco Warthog Hybrid This may be a prototype of the upcoming Bronco Warthog. Unlike the prototype spied last year, the one seen here has a set of orange cables on the undercarriage. The cables appear to be high-voltage lines typically used in carrying currents in hybrid- electric configurations. The model features a single-tip exhaust outlet (possibly for EPA testing). By comparison, the prototype spied last year without the orange cables featured a dual-tip, single exhaust outlet. Both of these are telltales that this prototype could be a Bronco Warthog Hybrid.
’23 Ford Mustang AWD   Here’s a first look at a very early mule for the next-generation (S650) Ford Mustang. Clearly based on the current S550 Mustang GT, the prototype is wearing light checkered camouflage on the front end, along with a smorgasbord of parts from various current Mustang variants: The lower splitter and side skirts are from the new Mach 1, and the dual-tip dual exhaust is an option on the GT and EcoBoost models. The most intriguing part is the execution of the rear brakes. While the regular Mustang GT features a small rear caliper mounted at the back of the rotor, this mule places a much larger caliper on the forward end of its rotor, with a small parking brake on the back of it. A set of cables entering the cabin from each wheel suggests data-collection practices.
’21 F-150 Raptor Here’s the ’21 Ford F-150 Raptor riding on 35-in. tires with new rims, with a first look at the optional graphics package. At the front, the package features a set of thick, black graphics in the shape of lines on the hood, accompanied by a set of thin white lines. The black graphics transition into dots as they reach the rear end of the hood. Things get a bit more interesting on the side of the box, where the thick black lines give way to a sparser pattern. The box also features the letters FP (with what appears to be a QR code tucked inside the P) for Ford Performance, as well as the U.S. flag and the number 03 to designate the third generation of the F-150 Raptor.

SEMA News—June 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

NASCAR announced that Eric Ryan was named to the position of vice president of communications. Ryan will provide leadership across strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations of the sanctioning body’s communications and public relations work in his new role. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, Ryan will report to Chief Communications and Social Responsibility Officer Eric Nyquist. Working across Fortune 100 companies and some of the world’s most respected brands, Ryan has managed teams responsible for integrated internal and external communication initiatives across numerous corporate functions.

QA1 announced the expansion of its MOPAR suspension line with the acquisition of Gerst Tubular Suspension, a manufacturer of coil-over systems for classic Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler platforms. Gerst has been producing high-end classic MOPAR coil-over systems for nearly a decade. The acquisition pairs Gerst’s popular MOPAR products with QA1’s manufacturing capability and distribution network.

Classic Instruments announced that Scott Avery was added to the team as the company’s performance gauge division manager. “Scott joined our team a little over a year ago and has been a great addition,” said owner John McLeod. “He has really stepped up to get our performance gauge offerings out into the performance world.” The Classic Instruments performance division is responsible for adding nearly 3,800 new parts to the company’s current product offerings.

DPI Off-Road Brands announced the acquisition of J.T.’s Parts & Accessories, manufacturer of Nitro Gear & Axle, which has been awarded three SEMA Global Media Awards for its product line. Customers will benefit from having access to DPI’s complete offering of industry-leading off-road products and one-stop-shop sourcing.

Dynabrade Inc. announced the retirement of President and CEO Hardy Hamann, effective March 31. Hamann served as the 98th president of the Industrial Supply Manufacturers Association (now part of ISA), representing 550 North American Manufacturers in 2002–03. Dynabrade will announce its new company president at a later date.

Several organizational changes were announced by Yokohama Tire Corp. (YTC). Jeff Barna, president of YTC, was promoted to president and CEO of YTC. Shinichi Takimoto, a senior managing officer of The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. (YRC) and current CEO of YTC, will retain his role as chairman of YTC as well as president and CEO of Yokohama Corp. of North America (YCNA), chairman of Yokohama Tire Canada Inc. (YTV), and chairman of Yokohama Tire Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V. (YTMX). Takehisa Morimoto is the new chairman and president of Yokohama Tire Manufacturing Mississippi (YTMM). Tom Kenny, currently senior director of research and development at YDCA, was promoted to vice president of YDCA. Jeremy Kahrs was promoted to senior director of technical services at YDCA.

Following the company’s recent announcement of its acquisition of Cooper Tire, Goodyear announced that Ryan Patterson, currently president of its Asia Pacific business unit, will lead the integration effort as senior vice president for business integration. Nathaniel Madarang, currently managing director of Goodyear China, will succeed Patterson as president of Goodyear Asia Pacific. Prior to his role in Asia Pacific, Patterson was president of Goodyear’s North America consumer business, where he developed the company’s consumer strategy and its focus on high-value segments.

OTC Daihen Inc., a supplier of advanced manual and robotic welding systems, announced the promotion and appointment of Dr. Yasuhiro Kojina as president/CEO. Kojina replaces Shinsuke “Luke” Kadota, who is returning to Japan to become the deputy general manager of sales and marketing for the planning and administration department of the FA Robot Division at Daihen Corp.

Holley will become a public company as part of a definitive merger agreement with Empower Ltd.—a publicly traded special-purpose acquisition company. As a result of the agreement, Holley will become a publicly listed company on the New York Stock Exchange under the new ticker symbol HLLY. Holley President and CEO Tom Tomlinson and the current management team will continue to lead the combined company. Empower’s management team is led by CEO Matt Rubel and President Graham Clempson. Rubel is expected to serve as chairman of the board of directors. Holley is controlled by Sentinel Capital Partners LLC, a private-equity firm that will remain Holley’s largest shareholder upon closing.

The University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) announced a new degree in motorsports marketing. UNOH will now educate students to run this multi-billion dollar industry’s marketing side. According to the university, the new program marks the only four-year bachelor-degree program in the country focused on motorsports marketing. With one required internship, students have the chance to work within the motorsports field of their choice, from grassroots racing to the pinnacles of motorsports such as NASCAR, IndyCar and more. For more information, visit www.unoh.edu.

Permatex promoted Eva Pitts to director of sales. In her new role, Pitts will manage Permatex’s traditional and international businesses. Pitts joined Permatex’s parent company, ITW, in 2015 as brand manager for Rain-X wiper blades and appearance products with the car care division in Houston. She was promoted to group brand manager in 2017 and oversaw the launch of Rain-X Silicone AdvantEdge wiper blades. In 2019, Pitts transitioned into operations with the engine repair division, where she served as quality and EHS manager at Permatex’s facility in Solon, Ohio.

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) announced a new board structure, designed to expand the Foundation’s reach to additional markets and underserved aftermarket segments. Effective immediately, the board will consist of 30 members. Additionally, AACF also announced the appointment of two vice presidents to serve on the realigned executive committee: Luanne Brown, president and CEO of eTool Developers; and Jon Owens, national sales manager for Epicor Software.

SEMA News—June 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

Industry Indicators: U.S. Economic Outlook Improves as Vaccinations Accelerate

Economic activity improved significantly in the early months of the year, according to the latest edition of “SEMA Industry Indicators.” The rate of vaccinations is accelerating, and the number of COVID-19 cases, while still high, is improving. Additionally, the COVID relief bill likely will push economic growth above forecasts for the back half of 2021 and through much of 2022. All of that paints a much better outlook for the economy as it moves past the pandemic.

Still, there are some potential risks. Inflation is a possibility, and prices in some segments of the economy are moving higher. Supply chains are constrained because of disruption from the virus. Additionally, consumers spent more money on goods over the past year, as many services were closed. Consumers stayed at home and bought items such as electronics and auto parts. As the country opens and restrictions lift, consumers may divert more money to things they haven’t been able to do, potentially slowing growth for certain segments of the economy.

For more information, download the new March “SEMA Industry Indicators” report today, and for a more in-depth, longer-term look at the path of recovery for the industry and the economy, check out the “SEMA Future Trends—January 2021” report at www.sema.org/research.

New Dates, Location Announced for 2021 INA PAACE Automechanika Mexico

New dates and a new location have been announced for the 2021 INA PAACE Automechanika Mexico. After careful consideration, and in light of the ongoing COVID-19 developments in Mexico and globally, this year’s edition will be held December 1–3, 2021, at the San Luis Potosí Convention Center in San Luis Potosí, Mexico.

San Luis Potosí is easily accessible and is an automotive hub for various plants, including both General Motors and BMW, along with more than 250 Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. INA PAACE Automechanika Mexico showcases the latest technology and advancements over the entire spectrum of the automotive aftermarket industry. Registration information will be available in the coming weeks.

For more information, contact the INA PAACE Automechanika Mexico team at www.ina-paace-automechanika-mexico-city.us.messefrankfurt.com/mexico-city/en/contact.html.

SEMA Announces Plans for West Hall at LVCC for the 2021 SEMA Show

SEMA is on track to deliver an exciting in-person SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) November 2–5, 2021. With exhibits included in the LVCC’s newly constructed West Hall, the entire SEMA Show floorplan will be optimized and offer room for new features and enhancements for an improved overall attendee experience.

“The industry is eager to reconnect,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The return to an in-person SEMA Show gives resellers a chance to engage with an amazing gathering of suppliers, new products, stunning vehicle builds and networking opportunities. We are excited to provide our industry with a world-class marketplace that will help them grow and expand their businesses.”

The LVCC’s new West Hall is a 1.4-million-sq.-ft. facility completed in January during the COVID-19 shutdown. Details on additional resources, including a new online component that focuses on manufacturers, new products, feature vehicles and educational resources, will be announced as they are finalized in the coming weeks. For all the latest developments, see “The In-Person SEMA Show Is Back” on p. 50 of this issue.

Registration Open for SEMA Nordic Trip

Join SEMA on the first SEMA Nordic trip, August 25–29, 2021, in Stockholm, Sweden. Participants will learn the potential for their products in the area’s performance and classic-car paradise. Meet with top trade buyers who enable the half-century-old craze in Sweden and the surrounding countries of Norway, Finland and Denmark to restore and upgrade American classic cars.

The region hosts the headquarters of the European drag-racing championship. Rally racing and drifting also enjoy fan support. A robust sportsman program allows enthusiasts to use their more modestly upgraded rides in numerous competitions. High disposable income, a love of American vehicles and products, and a passion for personalization make this an attractive region.

The SEMA Nordic trip is the fifth region for the popular SEMA Business Development Programs. These low-cost, turnkey overseas events bring together SEMA-member manufacturers and buyers from key global markets. The price of the upcoming trip includes hotels, a tabletop display, meals and networking events. Prices start at $4,500 per company, not including flights to/from the United States. U.S. government grants (federal and state) are available to help defray the cost for qualified companies.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/nordic or contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

S. Torrence, Hight and Hartford Earn Wins at Rain-Delayed MOPAR Express Lane NHRA SpringNationals Presented by Pennzoil

Three-time defending Top Fuel world champ Steve Torrence finally conquered Houston Raceway Park, racing to the victory on Monday at the 34th annual Mopar Express Lane NHRA SpringNationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park. Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) also won in their respective categories at the fifth race of the 2021 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series season. Eliminations were postponed to Monday due to inclement weather on Sunday.

Torrence pedaled to a 4.001-second pass at 260.06 mph in his 11,000hp Capco Contractors dragster to beat veteran Doug Kalitta in the final round, earning this third win this season and extending his points lead.

In their 70th career meeting in eliminations and ninth time in the final round, it was Hight who got the best of Ron Capps in a matchup of Funny Car heavyweights, with Hight going a 3.916 at 327.19 in his 11,000hp AAA Texas Chevrolet Camaro SS.

In the Pro Stock final, Hartford picked up his first victory of the year in his Total Seal Chevrolet Camaro with a run of 7.660 at 145.11. Final-round opponent Deric Kramer had even more trouble, shaking the tires almost immediately to help hand the victory to Hartford.

The NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series returns to action June 11-13, with the TascaParts.com NHRA New England Nationals presented by Bandero Premium Tequila at New England Dragway.

Mooresville, North Carolina, Provides $100k in Support of Motorsports

Iredell County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) will launch a technical assistance program called ReVamp to help local motorsports teams and component manufacturers diversify to serve new markets. The program was made possible through partnership and funding from the Town of Mooresville and Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) at North Carolina State University. The ReVamp program will support companies with matching funds up to $10,000 per company for technical support assistance. The Town of Mooresville has provided $100,000 to Iredell EDC to support the ReVamp program, which was launched in response to the changes resulting from the impact of both NASCAR’s Next Gen car and the impact of COVID-19 on the racing industry.

The initiative is modeled on a program previously deployed by IES to help Department of Defense contractors diversify. Two local companies—Roush Yates Engines and MSI Defense— participated.

ReVamp is one of three programs developed by Iredell EDC to respond to the changes happening in the motorsports industry, including ReGen, a series of “lunch and learns” webinars to provide local manufacturers basic tools for diversification and to invite them to the “deeper dive” of ReVamp. Stream 2021, hosted earlier this year, brought together Charlotte region manufacturers to facilitate supplier and procurement opportunities for companies. For more information, visit iredelledc.com/revamp. To register for the webinar, click here.

For more racing news, visit Performance Racing Industry’s (PRI) website.

By Kyle Cheng

The current outlook of the U.S. economy remains positive, with several tailwinds helping to drive the recovery. States have lifted many COVID-19 restrictions as vaccination rates rise and consumers are responding. This, combined with loose federal monetary policy and stimulus payments, is spurring consumer spending.

Retail sales are nearly 18% higher than they were prior to the pandemic in February 2020—further helping the recovery. It will be difficult for retail sales to continue to grow at these historic rates in the coming years and months, as the increased opening of the service economy will likely pull away some of this growth in the later part of 2021.

New-vehicle sales hit record highs in April. However, supply constraints are hurting production levels. The auto sector is racing to keep up with this historic demand, but supply-chain shortages may take some time before fully recovering.

For more information, download the new May “SEMA Industry Indicators” report today at www.sema.org/research.

By Ashley Reyes

As CMO and executive vice president of Redline Detection, Alex Parker has been instrumental in helping the company succeed and grow. In addition to receiving the 2020 SEMA Manufacturer of the Year award, Redline Detection is a leader in diagnostic leak detection technology.

Parker’s unique background in psychology, digital marketing and publishing has helped Redline Detection generate great brand buzz. Get tips and insight on how she’s developed a proven recipe for success during her SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Facebook live chat, Wednesday, June 2, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT), on the SBN Facebook page.

Participants will learn how to get a brand noticed, what tools are available to make it simple and what mistakes brands make when pushing messages out. As a Facebook live chat, participants will be able to communicate with Parker live and get their questions answered in real-time.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members that manufacture or install products for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)-equipped vehicles are invited to join the SEMA Garage as they kick off a new three-part ADAS webinar series.

Ideal for businesses who manufacturer or install parts that alter a vehicles body, suspension, or wheels and tires, the series will cover ADAS technology, resources, and case studies, information on how ADAS systems work and how they are affected by various vehicle modifications or repairs.

During Part 1 “ADAS Technologies: Real-World Systems & Trends,” taking place June 16, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT), attendees will hear and learn from top industry experts as they provide a high-level look at current ADAS systems' function, technology and trends.

Register for Part 1 – ADAS Technologies: Real-World Systems & Trends.

By Ashley Reyes

Mark your calendars for the following upcoming webinars and stay tuned to SEMA eNews as additional sessions are announced throughout the year. For a comprehensive library of upcoming and on-demand sessions that members can access anytime, visit www.sema.org/virtual-education.

Wednesday, June 2—Facebook Live Chat featuring Alex Parker, Redline Detection  

Track: Industry Talks

As CMO and executive vice president of Redline Detection, Alex Parker utilizes her professional background in psychology, digital marketing and publishing to generate great brand buzz around her company with authenticity and transparency. Tune in to this live chat as she shares tips for getting brands noticed and answers questions live.

Location: SBN Facebook page

Thursday, June 10—State of the Industry: Where Are We Now?

Series: SEMA Industry Insight Series

Track: Trends and Research

During this live webinar, SEMA members will learn about the current state of the specialty-equipment industry and where the market is headed. Presented by SEMA Market Research, the webinar will feature new stats on specialty-equipment sales, hot and emerging markets, and an outlook and projections for 2021 and beyond.

Register here.

Wednesday, June 16—ADAS Technologies: Real-World Systems & Trends

Series: ADAS Webinar Series  

As part 1 of the SEMA ADAS webinar series, this webinar will feature top industry experts as they provide a high-level look at current ADAS systems' function, technology and trends. Participants will learn the basics of how these systems work, and how they are affected by various vehicle modifications or repairs.  

Register here.

NEWLY ADDED: Tuesday, June 22—Everything but the Kitchen Sink of Job Hunting

Series: Perfecting Your Job Search Series, Powered by SBN

Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Learn how to stand out as a well-rounded candidate beyond your resume and interview. Featuring Maru Trevizo, SEMA vice president of human resources, this webinar will cover how to successfully leverage attire, follow up, recommendations and networking to land a desired job position. Participants will have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned through interactive breakouts.

Register here.

NEWLY ADDED: Wednesday, June 30 – ADAS Technologies: Making Sense of Simulation, Testing and Calibration

Series: ADAS Webinar Series

As part 2 of the SEMA ADAS webinar series, this webinar will feature top service providers in the ADAS simulation, testing and calibration spaces. Participants will learn what resources are available in the marketplace to help SEMA members develop and install parts safely while maintaining OEM functionality of the ADAS system.  

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) named Eric Holmes as the council’s latest volunteer spotlight member.
Holmes is the national sales manager at Eastman Performance Films, manufacturer and marketer of high-performance window films for the automotive, residential and commercial spaces.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO? How has it or will it impact you?

Eric Holmes: I am passionate about this industry and love the opportunity to work with other peers with different backgrounds to support the aftermarket business.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?

EH: You can achieve anything you want if you put forth the effort and commitment. There is a ton of support from manufacturers and peers across the industry. SEMA has a lot of great resources, so make sure you know what is available to you.

SEMA: What is your dream vehicle?

EH: My dream vehicle is a Porsche 911 Turbo S.

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

EH: Stay focused, stay patient, keep your head down and continue to drive forward. Good things will come.  

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

EH: Growth and opportunity keep me in the industry.

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

EH: You can find me snowboarding in the winter and camping in the summer.

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO’s social media, SEMA eNews and future PRO-member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

As businesses continue to reopen, the state of the industry will be closely watched for new market and sales trends, and what has changed over the past year.

SEMA members are invited to learn about new information that will help advance their businesses. SEMA Market Research will share new data that explores the state of the specialty-equipment industry and where the market is headed.  

The SEMA Virtual Education “State of the Industry: Where Are We Now?” webinar on June 10, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT) will feature SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp and Market Research Manager Kyle Cheng as they present:

• How the industry weathered the pandemic.
• Current industry trends and sales performance.
• Overall outlook and projections for 2021 and beyond.

This event is the ideal time to hear from the experts, ask questions live and learn where the opportunities can be found for your business.

Register here.