By Juan Torres

SEMA leadership, volunteers and industry icons will gather in Las Vegas for the 2021 SEMA Installation & Gala, Friday, July 30.

The SEMA Installation & Gala is a long-established tradition where individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry are recognized and celebrated. Since 1976, the SEMA Gala has served as a formal gathering where new SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced, incoming Board of Directors are sworn in and outgoing Board of Directors are honored.

This year’s event will take place for the first time in Las Vegas. Specifically, the event will be held in the new West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the same facility where thousands of industry professionals will gather for the 2021 SEMA Show in November.

“SEMA has a deep history and connection with the city of Las Vegas,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “We could not be more excited about celebrating the industry in Las Vegas, and christening the West Hall with such a noteworthy event.”

The SEMA Installation & Gala will be one of the first events held in the West Hall since construction of the 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility was completed in January. The event, which is expected to include about 400 individuals, will also mark SEMA’s first mass gathering to take place in more than a year.

“I look forward to the SEMA Gala each year—even more so this year than any other year since it will be a reunion for our industry’s friends and family,” said Kersting. “The SEMA Installation & Gala is important to the association, the members and the industry, and it’s about much more than just introducing new Hall of Fame members or recognizing our Board of Directors. The event is about community, family and celebration, with people who share a common passion and love for the industry.”

Tickets to the 2021 SEMA Installation & Gala are available to all SEMA members and can be purchased at www.sema.org/gala. Details about the honorees (new Hall of Fame members and incoming Board of Directors) will be announced in May.

By Jay Carpio, Fredy Ramirez & Carr Winn

“Carr Parts” is dedicated to builders. It’s about quick tips and tricks and the newest must-have products. It’s about visiting with a fellow builder, walking around their project and getting an up-close look at their handiwork. It's also about our industry sharing their passion for turning a wrench and taking time to give advice to fellow gearheads. Episode eight features Giulia Levenduski talking about upgrading the steering components on her Jeep Wrangler.

For more information about other talented young builders, visit SEMA's Young Guns www.semayoungguns.com.

SEMA’s video team is currently in production on future episodes of “Carr Parts“ and we’d love to hear from you. Do you have a tip, trick or advice you can share with our audience? Drop us a note on social via @SEMA_Association and we’ll connect with you.

We can't wait to find the next guest for “Carr Parts.” And finally...keep building.

By SEMA Editors

The SDC Data Excellence recognizes the companies that have worked with SDC to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets. Here are products from current SDC members that have achieved data excellence.

Fuelab
Pro Series Line

Fuelab announces its all-new Pro Series line, developed for high-horsepower, high-flow applications where fuels such as methanol or E85 are used. At the center of the new series is the 40501 Pro Series Spur Gear pump, a variable speed pump built to handle more than 2500 hp, with extremely low current draw.

Built to compliment the all-new Spur Gear Pump are the 868xx Pro Series In-Line Fuel Filters. Built for maximum flow and minimal pressure drop, Fuelab’s new Pro Series Extreme Flow In-Line Fuel Filters are tough to beat. With a 10 GPM flow rating, these fuel filters offer huge flow capacity under extreme conditions.

And lastly, Fuelab’s 565 Series Fuel Pressure regulator, with its all-new look, rounds out the Fuelab Pro Series line. 565 Series Fuel Pressure Regulators have all of the same great features as the 515/525 Series except for extreme capacity. Utilizing a massive half-inch return orifice and -10AN ports, the regulator holds no bounds. With a bypass capability over 5 GPM at 5 psi, the regulator can handle blow through carbureted applications well over 1,800 hp and for EFI applications using belt driven fuel pumps. Regulator comes in four different pressure ranges covering applications between 4 and 80 psi.

www.fuelab.com
PNs: 565, 868xx, 40501, 565xx Cut-Away, 868xx Cut-Away, 40501 Cut-Away

Oracle Lighting
Nissan GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lighting Bolt” RGB+W Headlight DRL Upgrade

Oracle Lighting announced the launch of the new GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lightning Bolt” RGB+W headlight DRL upgrade for the Nissan GT-R (model years ’15-’21). The replacement boards feature Oracle Lighting’s traditional RGB ColorSHIFT technology along with an extra “True White LED,” which makes pure white tones that gives the user a crisp, white DRL and the ability to instantly switch over for 100% legal road driving. This lighting option provides color-changing capabilities without giving up any of the original factory features.

www.oraclelighting.com
PN: Kit for model years ’15–’21

Tuffy Security Products
Flip-Up Front License Plate Holder

Tuffy's front-mounted winch meets state front license plate requirements with its #189 Front License Plate Holder, which fits roller fairleads as well as the #333 for Hawse fairleads. The product enables the front license plate to attach firmly to the winch fairleads, and quickly flip out of the way when the winch is needed.

Manufactured of welded steel with a black powdercoat finish and a theft-deterring design, its strong construction looks good while also preventing the license plate from being stolen. It requires no drilling or wire ties, comes with all necessary mounting hardware and works with standard roller style (PN 189) or Hawse fairleads (PN 333) using synthetic rope.

www.tuffyproducts.com
PN: #189/#333

By SEMA Editors

SEMA eNews highlights new products from industry companies each week. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

Continental Tire
OEM Fuel Injectors

Continental has expanded its line of OEM fuel injectors to offer new application coverage for a wide range of Infiniti, Nissan and Subaru models from ’96–’11. Five part numbers have been added to the fast-growing program to deliver expanded coverage for more than 1,140,000 VIO in North America. The fuel injectors are direct OE replacement parts and identical in fit, form and function to the OE part.

The fuel injectors are designed for long service life and simplified installation and are built in OE ISO TS-certified facilities and manufactured to the highest-quality standards. Continental offers five part numbers that provide coverage for Infiniti FX45, M45, Q45, G20, I30 and QX4 models, Nissan Altima, Maxima, Frontier, Pickup, Pathfinder, Sentra and Urvan models and Subaru Baja, Forester, Impreza, Legacy and Outback models.

www.continentalaftermarket.com

BDS
BBC/SBC Billet Timing Pointer

Blower Drive Service's new timing pointer is designed for used on both big-block and small-block Chevy engines. Machined from solid billet by BDS, the pointers are adjustable and precision-marked for precise identification using a BDS Degree Ring. The universal Chevy timing pointers come with mounting hardware shown and retail for just $65 each.

562-693-4302
www.blowerdriveservice.com

Superchips
Flashpaq for ’19–’20 Silverado

Superchips announced the release Flashpaq tuning coverage for ’19–’20 5.3L and 6.2L V8 applications with the six-, eight-, and 10-speed transmissions. With a simple, pre-loaded performance flash tuning device for the ’19+ GM trucks, enthusiasts can take advantage of Flashpaq's (2847-S) added power/torque and built-in features.

• ECM send-in process included to unlock factory ECM for flashing
• Speedometer correction for changes in tire size and gear ratio
• Enable/disable active and dynamic fuel management
• Adjust speed and rev limiters
• Remember last setting for auto start/stop
• Remember last setting for drive modes
• Adjustable TPMS settings 1-90 psi
• Read and clear DTCs
• Mileage XS, 87 octane, tow, 91 octane, 93 octane tunes

www.superchips.com

Westin Automotive/Superwinch
Overland Cargo Rack

Maximize the cargo space and storage capacity of your truck with the Westin/Superwinch new Overland Cargo Rack, a multi-purpose bed rack cargo-management system that allows for a wide variety of off-road and overland gear storage, such as off-road jacks, RotoPax gas cans, traction boards, shovels, rooftop tents, LED lighting and storage boxes, with multiple mounting positions and options. Constructed of 4-in. rectangular tubing and 14-gauge steel, this unique design utilizes the OEM bed rails for a no-drill mounting. The low-profile design was engineered to keep the cargo gear below the cab roof line, positioning most roof-top tents to be flush with the top of the roof to reduce wind resistance and allow for easier garage parking.

www.westinautomotive.com/overland-cargo-rack

Milwaukee Tool
Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrenches

Milwaukee Tool expanded its offering of combination wrenches with a new line of Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrenches. The wrenches feature a flexible head design that allows better access in hard-to-reach spaces. With 2.5⁰ of arc swing and 144 ratcheting positions, the wrenches allow for quick and efficient work in tight and awkward spaces. The double-stacked pawls within the ratcheting mechanism are engineered to increase durability and extend the life of the tool. The MAX BITE Open-End Grip improves the wrench’s grip on nuts and bolts, offering 25% more torque than smooth-faced wrenches. The ergonomic I-Beam handles are designed for superior comfort in high torque situations. The ink-filled size labels provide easy size identification and are color-coded for quick distinction between SAE and Metric sets.

The new Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrench Sets are available in both SAE and Metric seven-piece or 15-piece sets and are also sold individually. These products are a testament to Milwaukee’s continued commitment to developing innovative solutions that save users time and increase productivity.

www.milwaukeetool.com

Enerpac
Sync Grip Puller Series

Enerpac announced its new 100-ton puller addition to the company’s Sync Grip Puller series, providing the largest reach, spread, and capacity of the line. The Sync Grip Puller is a controlled solution for the removal of bearings, bushing, gears and pins from shafts during maintenance. The puller is a safe and cost-effective solution, eliminating the need to cut, heat or torch components that need to be removed from shafts. The puller removes parts without subjecting them to open flame, which could damage parts or injure the operator.

As with all pullers in the Sync Grip line, the new 100-ton model features simple, synchronous movement. The sync grip mechanism synchronizes movement of all jaws for simultaneous engagement, enhancing the operator’s control over the tool and simplifying the set-up. Hydraulic puller jaws fit around the part to be removed, while the spindle applies up to 100 tons of force to remove it. Hydraulically applied pulling force increases pulling capacity and reduces operator fatigue, enabling quicker and easier set up.

www.enerpac.com/en-us/US-News/e/new-products

3M
High-Gloss Protective Finish: 3M Ceramic Coating

3M announced the launch of 3M Ceramic Coating, the company’s new long-lasting protective finish for automotive paint, metal, plastic trim, wheels and glass. The coating delivers a high-gloss, extremely slick surface that looks great and helps shed water quickly while carrying away light dust.

3M Ceramic Coating is also resistant to road salts, harsh chemicals and acid rain. The coating lasts up to five years with proper annual care and maintenance. The fast-curing formula is easy to apply and has no strong odors or vapors.  

www.3M.com/CeramicCoating

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) and its affiliated groups, Tread Lightly! and Mad Media, have teamed up to create “UTV Impact”, a community-driven effort to educate and persuade new utility vehicle (UTV) riders to ride with respect. Fellow drivers are impacted when new owners or renters drive recklessly. This behavior not only affects the driver, but also the other people and wildlife around them.

The objective of the campaign is aligned with ORBA/One Voice’s mission of protecting access to public and private lands for off-road motorized use. It is coupled with Tread Lightly!’s mission to promote responsible outdoor recreation to minimize the environmental and social impacts of off-road recreation. UTV Impact was created as an inclusive opportunity to connect this emerging form of motorized recreation into the off-highway world.

Fred Wiley, ORBA CEO, believes that with the 500% increase in sales of UTVs, also known as side-by-sides, “It is important that ORBA assists in developing a program that will sustain responsible recreation on public and private lands and UTV Impact is an important component of our work.”

ORBA represents members of the off-road industry, and this is a great way in connecting grassroots, new enthusiasts and the industry together with the common thread of protecting our privilege to ride in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. The time is now to take action and do our part to ensure we keep our trails and riding areas free of trash, respect wildlife and other users, and ride with control.

UTV Impact manager Dave Logan says, “As we see an explosive growth in new UTV owners and renters, we also see a need to explain how a driver’s behavior impacts the people and trails around them. We need everyone to cooperate to keep our trails open. There are not enough law-enforcement officers to write tickets and not enough volunteers to repair the trail damage.”

The off-road community and Tread Lightly! understand firsthand the impact of making responsible decisions that will help keep operators safe and access open to public lands. These decisions will conserve resources in all recreational situations. The foundations of this positive behavior are respect and responsibility.

Matt Caldwell, executive director of Tread Lightly!, sees UTV Impact as a vital tool in keeping trails open and accessible. “The influx of new users to the off-road community has put a great strain on public lands. We believe that UTV Impact can be the foundation to help protect our access for the next generations.”

The demand for access to public lands is increasing for all types of use and it is our goal to limit our impacts on the land and conflicts with other users. This will be accomplished through the UTV Impact campaign.

For more information contact Fred Wiley at fwiley@orba.biz or 661-323-1464.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Virtual Education remains committed to empowering industry professionals by sharing innovative strategies, information and learning through new and engaging webinars.

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, April 22 – Tire Knowledge 301: Common Causes of Balancing Process Errors and How to Avoid Them

Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Series: Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, Powered by WTC

Understanding causes for vehicle vibration and the mechanics of balanced vs. unbalanced tires is critical for helping tire professionals ensure their customers have a smooth ride, even tire wear and proper tire weight distribution around their vehicle. Learn about the common causes of balancing process errors, how to avoid them and best practices to minimize customer vibration complaints.

Register here.

Friday, April 23 – Facebook Live: ETTN Live Chat with Prashant Ahire and Russ O’ Blenes

Track: Industry Talks

Representatives from Chevy Performance will share their expert insight on performance electrification and electric vehicle performance, what’s in store for the future and answer questions live from participants. With OEMs committing to either fully electric or hybrid-electric powerplants for future models, now is the time to find out what they have planned.

Location: ETTN Facebook page

Tuesday, April 27 – Interview Skills

Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Series: Perfecting Your Job Search Series, Powered by the SBN

An interview may be the most important step of a job search. At this point, the prospective employer has already reviewed you résumé, determined that you meet their qualifications and has picked you as one of their top candidates. Get tips and tricks from HR professionals on what to do and what to avoid in an interview in order to secure the job offer. This one-hour interactive program will give participants confidence and strategies for a successful job interview.

Register here.

SEMA Scores State Legislative Victories

The 2021 state legislative sessions are in full swing and SEMA’s Government Affairs team is working non-stop to ensure positive outcomes for your business. Below is a summary of SEMA’s most recent hard-fought victories. To receive the latest breaking news from your home state, be sure to join the SEMA Action Network (SAN) for free today.

• After receiving hundreds of opposition letters from SEMA-member companies and enthusiasts, the Nevada legislature did not act on a bill that would have restricted the registration of hobbyist vehicles.
• SEMA testified in opposition to a Nevada bill that would have outlawed most vehicle exhaust modifications. The bill failed to advance prior to a key legislative deadline and cannot be considered again until 2023.
• In the face of SEMA’s opposition, the Wyoming legislature killed a bill that would have significantly restricted antique vehicle registration eligibility.
• Thanks to SEMA’s effort, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed into law a version of SEMA’s model legislation to allow for the registration and on-road use of surplus military vehicles.
• The Kansas legislature passed a SEMA-supported bill to ease restrictions on antique vehicles. The bill is sponsored by SEMA State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus member Rep. Leo Delperdang and awaits Governor Kelly’s signature or veto. Click here to send a letter of support to the Governor.
• After an outpouring of support from the industry and enthusiasts, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signed into law legislation to expand single license plate usage.
• At the urging of SEMA, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed into law legislation to expand imported foreign-market vehicle titling.
• With SEMA’s support, Idaho’s legislature passed a bill creating a new custom vehicle registration class. The bill awaits Governor Greg Little’s signature or veto. Click here to send a letter of support to the Governor.
• With backing from the industry, Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves signed into law SEMA-supported legislation to expand titling eligibility for older vehicles.
• West Virginia approved SEMA-supported resolutions calling for the creation of an interstate off-highway vehicle trail system. The measures were sponsored by SEMA’s 2018 Stephen B. McDonald Legislator of the Year Award winner Sen. Mark Maynard and SEMA State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus Chairman Del. Gary Howell.

For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

One of the most important things for wheel and tire professionals to know about is tire balancing. Unbalanced tires can result in vehicle vibration, uneven tire wear and improper weight distribution.

Join industry experts as they provide a comprehensive overview about tire balancing, including the common causes of balancing process errors, how to avoid them and easy ways to correct the problems. Presented in a live webinar on April 22, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT), the event features Mike Lusso of Hennessy Industries as moderator, joined by Keith Buckley, Good Year; Kent Hobson, Sam’s Club; and Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries. They will discuss:

• The mechanics of balance vs. unbalance.
• Vibration-inducting factors which can mimic unbalance.
• Best practices to minimize customer vibration complaints, which can be implemented immediately with little to no expense.

Participants will benefit from attending this event live by asking questions and engaging with the presenters during the event in real time.

Register here.

The session is the sixth of the “Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, Powered by WTC” SEMA Virtual Education series. Recordings of all previous sessions are available to view on demand at www.sema.org/virtual-education.

By Ashley Reyes

While virtual meetings have become commonplace, meeting new people and business connections continues to be a struggle. The SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) Virtual Happy Hour on Monday, May 3, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. PDT is the ideal event for young industry professionals to meet other colleagues in a relaxed and social setting.

As a virtual event, participants will be able to bring their own drinks, there is no dress code and the conversation is open for discussion. Participants will gather in small groups of up to six, making it easy to have quality conversations and get to know one another.

A brief update will be provided on current YEN programs and activities, but the focus of the event is on networking and fun.

YEN members can register here. Questions regarding the event can be directed to YEN Director Denise Waddingham at deniselw@sema.org.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Daytona Appoints Frank Kelleher Track President

Daytona International Speedway (DIS) has appointed Frank Kelleher, an experienced industry veteran, president of the historic racing facility. Concurrently, NASCAR has announced that Chip Wile, former DIS president, has been promoted to a new expansive role overseeing 13 NASCAR-owned tracks as senior vice president and chief track properties officer.

In his previous role as NASCAR‘s senior vice president and chief sales officer, Kelleher oversaw a team responsible for business strategy and revenue generation, which played a critical role in driving both media and partnership sales for NASCAR and its tracks. Kelleher also helped secure the founding sponsorships to Daytona International Speedway’s highly visible injectors.

Both Kelleher and Wile will assume their new roles effective immediately. Daytona International Speedway’s next scheduled major motorsports weekend is a NASCAR doubleheader August 27–28, featuring the Coke Zero Sugar 400 and the Wawa 250 Powered by Coca-Cola.

The Mint 400 Announces Official “Military Vehicle” Class

Officials with The Mint 400 have announced an all-new military vehicle class for the 2021 event set for December 1–5, in Las Vegas. The class will allow manufacturers and owners of historic and modern military vehicles to compete and showcase their vehicle platforms in front of tens of thousands of off-road race fans and enthusiasts in-person and via the Mint 400 LiveStream. The new class comes as Mint 400 owners Matt and Josh Martelli and the Mint 400 Event Director Kilian Hamlin plan the second annual Mint 400 Military Challenge, which raised over $100,000 in financial support for veterans and active-duty military in its first year. Last year, several military vehicles took part in the Military Challenge as part of the 2020 Mint 400. This included the Green Berets with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), who raced the General Dynamics Ground Mobility Vehicle 1.1s, and the Warfighter Made organization who entered its Flyer 22 Vintage Military Light Strike Vehicle (LSV) manufactured by Flyer Defense and a 1988 AM General M998 High Mobility Multi Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) aka Humvee. Companies looking to get involved in the new Mint 400 Military Class should contact Mint 400 CEO Matt Martelli. More information on the new class will be released in the coming months.

Bondurant Racing School to Relaunch at New Location

Race car champion Bob Bondurant has announced the Bondurant School of High Performance Driving will relaunch in a new location. The school is working with and soliciting qualified partners to negotiate the new location for the business, which was previously headquartered at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park in Chandler, Arizona. The facility is now the site of Radford Racing School, which had purchased the Bondurant school assets in 2019.

Greg Walter Named Promoter of the Year for 2020

Speedway Motorsports officials have honored Charlotte Motor Speedway Executive Vice President and General Manager Greg Walter as the Promoter of the Year and named Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer Kevin Camper as the O. Bruton Smith Award recipient for 2020. Walter, a 20-year leader within Speedway Motorsports, was recognized for Charlotte Motor Speedway’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The facility used its substantial logistical expertise to provide safe, socially distanced events ranging from drive-through high-school graduations and Halloween events to drive-in concerts and movie nights. Walter’s team was also pivotal in planning and executing North Carolina’s first mass COVID-19 vaccination event and was just the second track on the NASCAR’s return to racing schedule with the Bank of America ROVAL 400 last fall.

Annually presented to one employee across all of Speedway Motorsports and its subsidiaries, the recipient of the O. Bruton Smit Award is someone who exhibits the traits of the Speedway Motorsports Executive Chairman and Founder O. Bruton Smith. Those traits include character, enthusiasm, drive, a heart for helping others, respect and appreciation for team members, vision and determination.

Scott Tapley Named Thunder Road Race Director

Thunder Road officials have appointed Scott Tapley as race director for the 2021 season. The longtime motorsports official will oversee all of the Barre, Vermont-based track’s local racing divisions, along with the 19-event schedule. Tapley is also the race director at Connecticut’s Stafford Motor Speedway and Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park, and New York’s Riverhead Raceway. Thunder Road opens its 2021 season on Sunday, May 2, for the 23rd Community Bank N.A. 150 featuring the ACT Late Model Tour, Maplewood/Irving Oil Late Models and more.

Capital City Motorsports Park Signs on as NHRA Member Track

The NHRA has announced that Capital City Motorsports Park has signed on as the newest NHRA-member track in the NHRA Southeast Division. Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Capital City Motorsports Park is overseen by owner Ben Willis. Capital City Motorsports Park is gearing up for its 2021 schedule, which will include the Free Entry 10K event in August and the Mike Smith Memorial Race as well as the Jr. Dragster Halloween Spectacular in October. Capital City Motorsports Park joins a group of more than 120 NHRA-member tracks worldwide. As an NHRA-sanctioned track, the facility will be eligible to offer racers a variety of NHRA racing opportunities, including the NHRA Summit Racing Series, the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League and NHRA Jr. Street.

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