Dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows and activities have been announced. Details are:

The off-road market continues to make an impact within the specialty-equipment industry. Case in point: the number of new products entered into the Best New Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product category of the SEMA Show New Products Showcase grew 72% from 2005 to 2007. Enthusiasts continue to buy these products despite economic woes possibly eroding their discretionary income. In 2007, off-road enthusiasts who were polled as part of SEMA’s annual Automotive Lifestyles survey said they spent, on average, $4,257 within the last 12 months on custom parts for their vehicles (the survey was administered in September through November of 2007). Off-road enthusiasts surveyed were actually six years younger than the average respondent within the entire survey—38 versus 44, respectively. These off-roaders have the income to spend on their vehicles too—carrying an average household income of around $86,000. It's no surprise that nearly half of those surveyed have modified their rides with either bigger wheels, performance intakes or exhausts.

The top 20 vehicles owned by the off-road enthusiasts surveyed paints a representative picture of what vehicles are accessorized within this market. Even at the 2007 SEMA Show, four of the top five light trucks within the Show's off-road section happened to be the same popular picks for the off-road enthusiasts examined here.

Source: SEMA Research & Information Center

HONDA'S SPORTIER NEW FIT
High gas prices and dwindling disposable incomes have fueled demand for small fuel-economic cars, which are often contenders for the sport-compact segment as well. Automakers, therefore, continue to unveil new small cars to appeal to consumers looking for a fun and economic vehicle. Honda unveiled its 2009 Honda Fit, which is set to hit dealerships this fall. The newest version has a two-inch longer wheelbase and a more aggressive profile thanks to the windshield being expanded by five inches. In order to satisfy the growing demand, Honda doubled its output of the Fit late last year. The Fit will feature a new 1.5L, four-cylinder, i-VTEC engine coupled to either a five-speed manual transmission or an available, segment-unique, five-speed automatic transmission, which includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the Fit Sport. Honda says that more detailed information about the 2009 Honda Fit will be released closer to the vehicle launch in the fall.
 
Source: American Honda Motor Co. Inc.

DETAILS ON PONTIAC’S G8 LS3 ENGINE
Pontiac recently unveiled its G8 GXP high-performance sedan at the New York Auto Show, adding to a growing segment of rear-wheel-drive modern musclecars. The 2009 model will join the Solstice, G6 and Torrent GXP models in Pontiac dealerships in late 2008. The heart of the G8 GXP is the 6.2L LS3 small-block V8, currently rated at 402 hp and 402 lb.-ft. of torque pending final SAE certification. This engine is the newest member of GM’s small-block V8 family. It features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block, high-flow, L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; unique camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; and high-flow fuel injectors.

The LS3 engine has an aluminum cylinder block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. Larger bores help create a 376ci displacement. The block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads to enhance its strength and improve bay-to-bay breathing. New pistons were designed for high-rpm performance.

New, high-flow cylinder heads aid engine breathing and are based on the large port and valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L76 engines. The larger-capacity, straighter intake port-design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber, an effect augmented by large valves, measuring 2.16 inches on the intake side and 1.59 inches on the exhaust side.

Pending final testing, the G8 GXP is expected to deliver 0-to-60 mph performance of about 4.7 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 13.0 seconds at 108 mph.

The G8 GXP rides on the G8’s 114.8-inch wheelbase with wide front (62.7 inches) and rear (63.3 inches) tracks. The four-wheel independent suspension is fully adjustable and is tuned for the highest performance in the G8 family. The GXP’s ride and handling was developed and validated on racetracks and highways around the world, including the famed Nürburgring racing circuit. It rewards the driver with sharp, immediate responses, as well as a well-balanced road feel during spirited driving, notes Pontiac.
 
Source: General Motors

NEW HYUNDAI SPORTS COUPE CATERS TO ENTHUSIASTS
Hyundai recently unveiled its Genesis Coupe at the New York International Auto Show. The 2010 Genesis Coupe is a purpose-built rear-wheel-drive sport coupe featuring two performance-focused engines, a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup and a standard six-speed manual transmission. The Genesis Coupe is scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in the spring of 2009.

Following the introduction earlier this year of the rear-wheel-drive Genesis sport sedan, the Genesis Coupe is Hyundai’s most dynamic performance car ever and the second-consecutive all-new model introduction from Hyundai appealing directly to the car enthusiast. The Genesis Coupe uses the same flexible rear-wheel-drive architecture originally developed for the Genesis sport sedan. The Genesis Coupe was shown as a concept at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, and its transformation from concept to production reveals that its signature design features have emerged intact.

Two engines infuse the Genesis Coupe with performance. The 3.8L Lambda DOHC V6 engine delivers an estimated 306 hp (310 hp using premium fuel) and 263 lb.-ft. of torque on regular unleaded. This engine will launch the Genesis Coupe from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under six seconds. To maximize the power band, the 3.8L engine utilizes Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at both low and high rpm. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration, passing performance and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engine uses an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and features timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.

The turbocharged, intercooled 2.0L DOHC inline four-cylinder benefits from CVVT on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The 2.0L turbo generates an estimated 212 hp (223 hp using premium fuel) and 217 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features a cast-aluminum cylinder block and cylinder head. Both engines feature a free-flowing dual cat-back exhaust and an available limited-slip differential to put the power to the ground, says Hyundai.

Source: Hyundai Motor America

KIA KOUP CONCEPT COULD BE A “CANVAS FOR ACCESSORIZATION”
Hinting toward a new small-car entry, Kia unveiled its KOUP concept, which is a sneak peek at what the automakers may bring to production in 2010. The Honda Civic-size KOUP concept could become a “canvas for accessorization,” according to Kia, when it is put into production. Unveiled at the 2008 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), Kia’s new concepts illustrates the shape and evolution of future Kia vehicles, the simple yet bold and aggressive KOUP exterior is complemented by its realistic and sleek interior design, the company notes.

“The Kia KOUP concept represents the future of the Kia brand and its dynamic vehicles that speak to our core philosophies,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer of KMA. “Kia strives to appeal to the emotional side of car enthusiasts who seek adventure and want to take a leap into the future with style and advanced technology, and the KOUP effectively delivers.”

Powered by a commanding 2.0L Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower paired with a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) twin scroll turbocharger for greater power and efficiency, the KOUP delivers astonishing torque of 289 lb.-ft. at a low 2,000 rpm sustained to 4,000 rpm. By injecting fuel directly into the cylinder under high pressure using the Kia GDI system, the intake charge is cooled and combustion behavior is improved. Improved combustion ensures excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Lower grille openings enable additional air intake for extra power. 

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, coil springs and stabilizer bars complement an independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts and an independent dual link rear suspension to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort and engine responsiveness. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling. In keeping with the KOUP’s sporty essence, Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for quick movements and sharp turns paired with a sport-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and strut tower bar offer a tighter grip for more spirited driving, says Kia.
 
Source: Kia Motors America

The once popular car-truck segment exemplified by the Chevrolet El Camino and Ford Ranchero is soon to be resurrected. The 2010 Pontiac G8 sport truck blurs the line between cars and trucks and is creating an all-new segment in the North American car market. This dramatically different vehicle blends the handling of a performance coupe with the cargo capabilities of a light truck.

Based on the all-new Pontiac G8 performance sedan, the newest member of the G8 family has a longer wheelbase and a cargo bed suitable for either work or play. The G8 sport truck is expected to arrive in showrooms in late 2009.

Another unique aspect of this new vehicle is the fact that it will be named by a consumer, and consumers can visit www.pontiac.com/namethiscar and submit their name ideas. “As an important part of the G8 family, we know that ‘sport truck’ doesn’t fully describe the vehicle’s ability to blur the lines between sports car and truck,” said Craig Bierley, Pontiac marketing director. “Because its fans will surely be as unique as the vehicle itself, we’re giving them a voice in selecting a name that reflects its appeal.” The winning entry will be announced April 15.
 
The G8 sport truck maintains the same exterior design as its namesake sedan. Flared fenders wrap around the 18-inch wheels to give it a wide stance. The roofline has a coupe-like profile that reflects the vehicle’s performance pedigree. The doors, roof and exterior panels aft of the B-pillars are unique from the G8 sedan. One-piece outer body panels give the vehicle a sleek appearance. Wrap-around taillamps and fully concealed tailgate hinges add to the sculpted look. A color-coordinated, soft tonneau cover conceals and protects items in the cargo bed from the weather.

The sport truck draws its strength from the same 6.0L V8 engine used in the G8 GT. It puts out 361 hp and 385 lb.-ft. of torque. The combination of a six-speed automatic transmission and Active Fuel Management technology provides both car-like fuel economy and an unexpected 0-to-60 time of 5.4 seconds.

While these performance numbers are respectable by sports car standards, the G8 sport truck offers flexibility unlike that of a sports car. A 73.9-inch cargo bed has 42.7 cubic feet of cargo space and a durable composite bedliner. It also can carry a payload of more than 1,074 lbs. and tow a 3,500-lbs. trailer.

Source: General Motors

Technometrica’s  IBD/TIPP Economic Optimism Index lost the modest gains it made in February, dropping 2 points, or 4.5%, to reach 42.5 (vs. 44.5 in February). March’s reading represents the third-lowest reading in the Economic Optimism Index’s 86-month history, and at 4.4 points below its prior 12-month average and 10 points below its all-time average, it is at its lowest reading in nearly two and a half years. March represents the 12th consecutive month since March 2007 that the index has been in the pessimistic zone.

The Index has three key components, all three of which fell in March:

• The six-month economic outlook fell 2.3 points, or 6.6%, to reach 32.8.
• The six-month personal financial outlook component lost three points, or 5.2%, to reach 54.7.
• The federal policies component fell 0.7 points, or 1.7%, to reach 39.9.

“Consumer confidence fell again this month, amid persistently high fuel prices, which are reverberating around the economy,” said Raghavan Mayur, president of TIPP, a unit of TechnoMetrica Market Intelligence, IBD's polling partner. “That, along with the continued slide of the dollar, weaker employment figures, the credit and housing crunch, as well as other economic metrics coupled with pessimistic economic news, and economic electioneering are not helping to boost American’s confidence in the economy."

The data for the March 2008 poll was collected March 3–9 with 902 respondents. The margin of error is +/-3.3 percentage points at the 95% confidence level.

This month, two of the 21 demographic groups that IBD/TIPP tracks were above 50 on the Economic Optimism Index (18 to 24 year olds, 59.9 and republicans, 53.2) and overall economic optimism improved among five of the 21 groups, while falling for the rest. The five groups with improved scores were 18 to 24 year olds (+3.6), those with household incomes above $75k (+3.4), republicans (+1.0), those with household incomes between $50K and $75K (+0.4) and investors (+0.1).

The largest losses occurred among those with household incomes below $30K per year (-9.2), those with household incomes between $30K and $50K (-7.0), non-investors (-4.6) and democrats (-4.0); the lowest scores belonged to democrats (35.9), those earning less than $30K per year (36.6) and independents (38.2). On the Economic Outlook component, none of the groups IBD/TIPP tracks scored in optimistic territory. In fact, the highest scores were 44.7 (among 18 to 24 year olds), 40.7 (among republicans), and 38.6 (among black and Hispanic Americans). The most pessimistic scores belong to independents (26.8), those earning between $30K and $50K (28.3) and 45 to 64 year olds (28.5).

Overall, just three of the 21 groups that IBD/TIPP tracks showed any improvement on this index, led by those with household incomes above $75K per year (+4.5), who were followed by small increases among those aged 65 or above (+0.7) and Investors (+0.1). On the Personal Financial component, 17 of the 21 groups that IBD/TIPP tracks scored a 50 or above, with four of those improving and 13 falling. On the Federal Policies component, just two of the 21 demographic groups that IBD/TIPP tracks were above 50—18 to 24 year olds (63.3) and republicans (57.3)—while the rest were below. The highest Federal Policy index score belonged to republicans (63.3) while the lowest belonged to democrats (29.0).

Source: Technometrica Market Intelligence

Filler for eNews

As car clubs flourish and knowledge of tuning culture and specialty products increase, the VW Bora and Golf have emerged as the two most often customized vehicles in China.

In China, the popularity of the Bora can be compared to that of the Honda Civic in the late ’80s and early ’90s in the United States. Both imported and locally made aftermarket parts are widely available for the Bora.

The Bora is sold as the Jetta 4 in the United States, and the Golf is known as the Golf 4 in North America.

The Ford Focus and Japanese brands, including the Subaru WRX, Honda Fit and Civic and Suzuki Swift are also among the list of cars popular to customize. The Peugeot 206 and the Audi A4 are the European cars most frequently customized.

Among SUVs, the top models to accessorize are the Beijing Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wranglers, Toyota Landcruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero, Isuzu Rodeo and Chinese brand Jiangling Landwind. In southern and southwestern China, the two most popular vehicles are the Toyota Land Cruiser 80, 100 and Prado and the Jeep Cherokee.

This information is an excerpt from a new SEMA report on the Chinese specialty market. Members can download this report and other information on the Chinese and other international markets at www.sema.org/international.  

Filler for eNews

The SAE 2008 World Congress announces a special session, "Designing for the Customer: OEM—Aftermarket Collaboration," featuring a panel with:

• Ralph Gilles, Vice President of Jeep/Truck and Advanced Interior Design, Chrysler
• Jack Stavana, Director of Accessory Operations, Mazda North America
• Ken Morris, Director of GM Performance Group
• Michael Chetcuti, CEO, Quality Metalcraft, Inc. and Principal, StreetCar USA
• Myles Kovacs, President and co-founder, DUB Publishing, Inc.
  
• John Waraniak, Vice President, Vehicle Technology, SEMA (moderator)
  

Contemporary executives from Chrysler, General Motors, Mazda, Quality Metalcraft and DUB will describe how their organizations are leveraging competitive capabilities and working with complementary partners to deliver profitable personalization, as well as discuss what the future holds for customization.

The panel discussion will provide details of what is becoming known as the “SEMA model” to help automotive companies capitalize on emerging lifestyle trends and aftermarket revenue streams. Auto companies, as well as leading dealers embracing the SEMA model, are expanding and moving forward with new-found opportunities for increasing vehicle and product sales through specialty parts, installers and restylers.

Visit SAE 2008 World Congress for more information and registration.

SEMA-member companies CARS Inc. and the Roadster Shop teamed up with Super Chevy Magazine to build a one-of-a-kind vehicle to benefit the Armed Forces Foundation. The custom ’57 Chevy convertible will be sold on Friday, March 28, at the 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car auction in Palm Beach, Florida. All proceeds will go to the non-profit Armed Forces Foundation, which provides financial assistance to families of fallen or disabled veterans.

“Project American Heroes” began last summer when CARS Inc. of Rochester Hills, Michigan, and the Roadster Shop of Elgin, Illinois, united with the editors of Super Chevy to recreate a 50th anniversary version of the ’57 classic. The two companies provided a complete body, chassis and labor to build the car, while dozens of other SEMA companies donated parts and helped sponsor the project.

The convertible is powered by a 572ci, 717hp, custom-built Chevy big block engine with an automatic transmission. Select armed forces personnel were invited to choose the ultimate design specs for the custom Chevy, including the blue pearl color scheme, interior design and exterior trim. The entire construction process was covered by Super Chevy magazine and plans are now underway to build a '69 Camaro for “Project American Heroes II.” 

The ’57 Chevy will go on the blocks sometime on March 28. You can watch the auction live on SPEED from 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. (EST). For additional information about the car and the foundation, visit: www.projectamericanheroes.net and www.armedforcesfoundation.org.