The U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee passed SEMA-supported legislation that would dedicate much-needed funding to address a more than $12 billion maintenance backlog in America’s National Parks. The “Restore Our Parks Act,” S. 500, would create a National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund for Fiscal Years 2020 through 2024, using unallocated revenue from energy produced on federal government owned lands and waters. The amount of money that could be allocated to the fund would be capped at $1.3 billion annually during the five-year program.
The bill is strongly supported by the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), which is comprised of 27 top industry associations, including SEMA, representing off-roading, camping, fishing, boating, hiking, archery and other sports. This legislation recognizes the significant economic contributions that the outdoor recreation industry generates ($887 billion per year in economic activity and provides an estimated 7.6 million direct jobs) and is consistent with ORR’s efforts to support rebuilding and expanding the nation’s recreation-related infrastructure.
The House Natural Resources Committee passed companion legislation, the “Restore Our Parks and Public Lands Act” (H.R. 1225), in October, which awaits House floor consideration. H.R. 1225 is more expansive than S. 500, as it creates a National Park Service and Public Lands Legacy Restoration Fund, which allows funds to be allocated to address the maintenance backlog for lands managed by the Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service and Bureau of Land Management, in addition to the National Park Service.
For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.
The U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee passed SEMA-supported legislation that would dedicate much-needed funding to address a more than $12 billion maintenance backlog in America’s National Parks. The “Restore Our Parks Act,” S. 500, would create a National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund for Fiscal Years 2020 through 2024, using unallocated revenue from energy produced on federal government owned lands and waters. The amount of money that could be allocated to the fund would be capped at $1.3 billion annually during the five-year program.
The bill is strongly supported by the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), which is comprised of 27 top industry associations, including SEMA, representing off-roading, camping, fishing, boating, hiking, archery and other sports. This legislation recognizes the significant economic contributions that the outdoor recreation industry generates ($887 billion per year in economic activity and provides an estimated 7.6 million direct jobs) and is consistent with ORR’s efforts to support rebuilding and expanding the nation’s recreation-related infrastructure.
The House Natural Resources Committee passed companion legislation, the “Restore Our Parks and Public Lands Act” (H.R. 1225), in October, which awaits House floor consideration. H.R. 1225 is more expansive than S. 500, as it creates a National Park Service and Public Lands Legacy Restoration Fund, which allows funds to be allocated to address the maintenance backlog for lands managed by the Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service and Bureau of Land Management, in addition to the National Park Service.
For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.
The Media Trade Conference makes it possible for media representatives to take part in up to 42 (14 per day) private, uninterrupted meetings with exhibitors from motorsports parts manufacturers.
Journalists are encouraged to register early for the 2020 Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference to receive the best possible schedule. Taking place January 21–23, at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North in Santa Ana, California, the Media Trade Conference makes it possible for media representatives to take part in up to 42 (14 per day) private, uninterrupted meetings with exhibitors from motorsports parts manufacturers.
By attending the conference, reporters can ask questions about the topics in which they are most interested, from exhibitor product lines to industry trends, and photograph products as they see fit.
Media participation is free to all editorial media representatives, including editors, reporters, freelance journalists and photographers, providing the most effective and affordable way for reporters to get detailed information specific to their audience’s needs and interests, and gather a year’s worth of editorial content.
Journalists who register by December 19, will receive their schedules in advance, as exhibitor meetings fill up fast and are scheduled based on the companies that journalists select on their applications. Those who register afterward will receive their schedules on site.
While it is recommended that media mark “Do Not Meet” for exhibitors that do not appeal to their audience or readership, leaving exhibitors marked as “Okay to Meet” will increase the likelihood that media have full schedules. Exhibitors are not notified as to the media’s selections.
For questions regarding the event, visit SEMA’s website or contact Juan Torres, SEMA media relations specialist, at juant@sema.org or 909-978-6722.
The Media Trade Conference makes it possible for media representatives to take part in up to 42 (14 per day) private, uninterrupted meetings with exhibitors from motorsports parts manufacturers.
Journalists are encouraged to register early for the 2020 Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference to receive the best possible schedule. Taking place January 21–23, at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North in Santa Ana, California, the Media Trade Conference makes it possible for media representatives to take part in up to 42 (14 per day) private, uninterrupted meetings with exhibitors from motorsports parts manufacturers.
By attending the conference, reporters can ask questions about the topics in which they are most interested, from exhibitor product lines to industry trends, and photograph products as they see fit.
Media participation is free to all editorial media representatives, including editors, reporters, freelance journalists and photographers, providing the most effective and affordable way for reporters to get detailed information specific to their audience’s needs and interests, and gather a year’s worth of editorial content.
Journalists who register by December 19, will receive their schedules in advance, as exhibitor meetings fill up fast and are scheduled based on the companies that journalists select on their applications. Those who register afterward will receive their schedules on site.
While it is recommended that media mark “Do Not Meet” for exhibitors that do not appeal to their audience or readership, leaving exhibitors marked as “Okay to Meet” will increase the likelihood that media have full schedules. Exhibitors are not notified as to the media’s selections.
For questions regarding the event, visit SEMA’s website or contact Juan Torres, SEMA media relations specialist, at juant@sema.org or 909-978-6722.
Roxanne Amiot (center), auto technology instructor at Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport, Connecticut, received the 2019 SEMA-NACAT Education Award for her use of aftermarket technology in her classroom.
Roxanne Amiot, auto technology instructor at Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport, Connecticut, received the 2019 SEMA-NACAT Education Award during the Education Partners Breakfast at the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
The award, which encourages education in the automotive aftermarket industry, recognizes instructors who teach automotive-related curricula and demonstrate positive and innovative use of aftermarket technology in their classrooms.
Amiot, who is also the head of the Automotive Technology Department at Bullard-Havens Technical High School, was selected from a competitive field that included applicants from the United States and Canada.
“We are pleased to present Amiot with an award that recognizes the daily impact made in the classroom and her true passion for automotive,” said Zane Clark, SEMA senior director of education. “Her dedication to students is essential to fostering an exciting future for our aftermarket industry.”
Amiot, who worked in the automotive industry before teaching in 1988, is an alumni of the award-winning program that she now oversees. The Bullard-Havens Technical High School automotive program has been recognized for its live production repair garage, where aftermarket parts are used in community projects throughout the year. Students are prepared for careers in the automotive industry through job shadowing, community work-based opportunities, as well as interview days that include automotive aftermarket businesses such as NAPA, Fed Mogul, O’Reillys and Pep Boys.
“Being recognized nationally by SEMA and NACAT brings positive attention and credibility to the work we do in our automotive technology repair program,” said Amiot. “With that comes support from the industry and the state to keep our programs open and financially funded so that we can continue to do what we do best, build skilled workers for our automotive industry.”
Amiot is an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Certified Technician with L1 and G1 certifications. Her automotive technology is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and Automotive Youth Educational Systems.
As part of the award, Amiot will also receive a complimentary registration to NACAT and $500 toward travel to attend the 2020 NACAT Conference and Expo in Cincinnati, Ohio.
In addition to partnering with NACAT to recognize educators who support the automotive education of students, SEMA’s Educational Program includes Scholarship & Loan Forgiveness, SEMA Show Student Programs and an annual High School Vehicle Build Program.
To learn more about the SEMA-NACAT Award or SEMA’s Educational Programs, visit www.sema.org/education.
Roxanne Amiot (center), auto technology instructor at Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport, Connecticut, received the 2019 SEMA-NACAT Education Award for her use of aftermarket technology in her classroom.
Roxanne Amiot, auto technology instructor at Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport, Connecticut, received the 2019 SEMA-NACAT Education Award during the Education Partners Breakfast at the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
The award, which encourages education in the automotive aftermarket industry, recognizes instructors who teach automotive-related curricula and demonstrate positive and innovative use of aftermarket technology in their classrooms.
Amiot, who is also the head of the Automotive Technology Department at Bullard-Havens Technical High School, was selected from a competitive field that included applicants from the United States and Canada.
“We are pleased to present Amiot with an award that recognizes the daily impact made in the classroom and her true passion for automotive,” said Zane Clark, SEMA senior director of education. “Her dedication to students is essential to fostering an exciting future for our aftermarket industry.”
Amiot, who worked in the automotive industry before teaching in 1988, is an alumni of the award-winning program that she now oversees. The Bullard-Havens Technical High School automotive program has been recognized for its live production repair garage, where aftermarket parts are used in community projects throughout the year. Students are prepared for careers in the automotive industry through job shadowing, community work-based opportunities, as well as interview days that include automotive aftermarket businesses such as NAPA, Fed Mogul, O’Reillys and Pep Boys.
“Being recognized nationally by SEMA and NACAT brings positive attention and credibility to the work we do in our automotive technology repair program,” said Amiot. “With that comes support from the industry and the state to keep our programs open and financially funded so that we can continue to do what we do best, build skilled workers for our automotive industry.”
Amiot is an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Certified Technician with L1 and G1 certifications. Her automotive technology is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and Automotive Youth Educational Systems.
As part of the award, Amiot will also receive a complimentary registration to NACAT and $500 toward travel to attend the 2020 NACAT Conference and Expo in Cincinnati, Ohio.
In addition to partnering with NACAT to recognize educators who support the automotive education of students, SEMA’s Educational Program includes Scholarship & Loan Forgiveness, SEMA Show Student Programs and an annual High School Vehicle Build Program.
To learn more about the SEMA-NACAT Award or SEMA’s Educational Programs, visit www.sema.org/education.
The 2019 PRI Trade Show will feature a week full of exhibiting, customer meetings, networking and MPMC-sponsored events and education seminars.
Just weeks after the SEMA Show, MPMC members will pack their bags for Indianapolis for a week full of exhibiting, customer meetings, networking and MPMC-sponsored events and education seminars at the PRI Trade Show.
All MPMC members and those who are planning on attending PRI are encouraged to take part in these MPMC events during the week.
MPMC Happy Hour Indiana Convention Center – LOS Exhibitor Hall December 11, 2019, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Join MPMC members and fellow industry leaders to wind down from a long day on the Show floor with free beverages and engaging conversations about the latest industry trends. Learn more about the benefits of MPMC membership and connect with select committee members who can help you get plugged in. The council offers many volunteer opportunities that lend a way to give back to the industry.
MPMC Performance Industry Reception Indiana Convention Center – Rooms 208–209 December 13, 2019, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Open to all manufacturers and media, the MPMC Performance Industry Reception serves as a wonderful opportunity to close out day two of the PRI Trade Show with an evening of networking with industry friends and colleagues. A highlight of this year’s event is the induction of the newest three members into the MPMC Hall of Fame. Enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres and cold drinks while mingling with the MPMC Select Committee, fellow manufacturers and this year’s MPMC Hall of Fame inductees.
The MPMC Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the motorsports industry through their life’s work. It is the most prestigious award the council presents. This year’s Hall of Fame inductees are being honored for their tireless contributions to the MPMC and industry.
Sponsorship Proposals, Powered by SEMA’s Motorsports Council Indiana Convention Center – Rooms 234 Thursday, December 12, from 2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
The most common mistake in sponsorship sales is to rush into the marketplace before you’re ready to sell or buy. Successful motorsports sponsorships involve strong brands helping prepared sponsors create business value around racing. In this presentation, industry experts will share practical tips to help buyers and sellers prepare for sponsorship success.
Opportunities for Women in Motorsports, Powered by SEMA’s Motorsports Council Indiana Convention Center – Room 231 Friday, December 13, from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m.
An all-female panel of industry professionals, led by Jeanette DesJardins of Car Chix and Crank It Media, discuss their achievements, aspirations, challenges, triumphs and efforts to engage and raise awareness among young women interested in pursuing motorsports as a career. Panelists include NASCAR Truck Series driver Natalie Decker, drag racer Lea Ochs and off-road racer Sarah Burgess (joined by her daughter and fellow racer Bridget Burgess).
The 2019 PRI Trade Show will feature a week full of exhibiting, customer meetings, networking and MPMC-sponsored events and education seminars.
Just weeks after the SEMA Show, MPMC members will pack their bags for Indianapolis for a week full of exhibiting, customer meetings, networking and MPMC-sponsored events and education seminars at the PRI Trade Show.
All MPMC members and those who are planning on attending PRI are encouraged to take part in these MPMC events during the week.
MPMC Happy Hour Indiana Convention Center – LOS Exhibitor Hall December 11, 2019, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Join MPMC members and fellow industry leaders to wind down from a long day on the Show floor with free beverages and engaging conversations about the latest industry trends. Learn more about the benefits of MPMC membership and connect with select committee members who can help you get plugged in. The council offers many volunteer opportunities that lend a way to give back to the industry.
MPMC Performance Industry Reception Indiana Convention Center – Rooms 208–209 December 13, 2019, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Open to all manufacturers and media, the MPMC Performance Industry Reception serves as a wonderful opportunity to close out day two of the PRI Trade Show with an evening of networking with industry friends and colleagues. A highlight of this year’s event is the induction of the newest three members into the MPMC Hall of Fame. Enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres and cold drinks while mingling with the MPMC Select Committee, fellow manufacturers and this year’s MPMC Hall of Fame inductees.
The MPMC Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the motorsports industry through their life’s work. It is the most prestigious award the council presents. This year’s Hall of Fame inductees are being honored for their tireless contributions to the MPMC and industry.
Sponsorship Proposals, Powered by SEMA’s Motorsports Council Indiana Convention Center – Rooms 234 Thursday, December 12, from 2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
The most common mistake in sponsorship sales is to rush into the marketplace before you’re ready to sell or buy. Successful motorsports sponsorships involve strong brands helping prepared sponsors create business value around racing. In this presentation, industry experts will share practical tips to help buyers and sellers prepare for sponsorship success.
Opportunities for Women in Motorsports, Powered by SEMA’s Motorsports Council Indiana Convention Center – Room 231 Friday, December 13, from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m.
An all-female panel of industry professionals, led by Jeanette DesJardins of Car Chix and Crank It Media, discuss their achievements, aspirations, challenges, triumphs and efforts to engage and raise awareness among young women interested in pursuing motorsports as a career. Panelists include NASCAR Truck Series driver Natalie Decker, drag racer Lea Ochs and off-road racer Sarah Burgess (joined by her daughter and fellow racer Bridget Burgess).
The 2019 PRI Trade Show will feature a week full of exhibiting, customer meetings, networking and MPMC-sponsored events and education seminars.
Just weeks after the SEMA Show, MPMC members will pack their bags for Indianapolis for a week full of exhibiting, customer meetings, networking and MPMC-sponsored events and education seminars at the PRI Trade Show.
All MPMC members and those who are planning on attending PRI are encouraged to take part in these MPMC events during the week.
MPMC Happy Hour Indiana Convention Center – LOS Exhibitor Hall December 11, 2019, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Join MPMC members and fellow industry leaders to wind down from a long day on the Show floor with free beverages and engaging conversations about the latest industry trends. Learn more about the benefits of MPMC membership and connect with select committee members who can help you get plugged in. The council offers many volunteer opportunities that lend a way to give back to the industry.
MPMC Performance Industry Reception Indiana Convention Center – Rooms 208–209 December 13, 2019, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Open to all manufacturers and media, the MPMC Performance Industry Reception serves as a wonderful opportunity to close out day two of the PRI Trade Show with an evening of networking with industry friends and colleagues. A highlight of this year’s event is the induction of the newest three members into the MPMC Hall of Fame. Enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres and cold drinks while mingling with the MPMC Select Committee, fellow manufacturers and this year’s MPMC Hall of Fame inductees.
The MPMC Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the motorsports industry through their life’s work. It is the most prestigious award the council presents. This year’s Hall of Fame inductees are being honored for their tireless contributions to the MPMC and industry.
Sponsorship Proposals, Powered by SEMA’s Motorsports Council Indiana Convention Center – Rooms 234 Thursday, December 12, from 2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
The most common mistake in sponsorship sales is to rush into the marketplace before you’re ready to sell or buy. Successful motorsports sponsorships involve strong brands helping prepared sponsors create business value around racing. In this presentation, industry experts will share practical tips to help buyers and sellers prepare for sponsorship success.
Opportunities for Women in Motorsports, Powered by SEMA’s Motorsports Council Indiana Convention Center – Room 231 Friday, December 13, from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m.
An all-female panel of industry professionals, led by Jeanette DesJardins of Car Chix and Crank It Media, discuss their achievements, aspirations, challenges, triumphs and efforts to engage and raise awareness among young women interested in pursuing motorsports as a career. Panelists include NASCAR Truck Series driver Natalie Decker, drag racer Lea Ochs and off-road racer Sarah Burgess (joined by her daughter and fellow racer Bridget Burgess).
Several new vehicle models and concepts were unveiled to the media yesterday at the 2019 Los Angeles International Auto Show. The following is a sampling of some of the debuts that are more relevant to the specialty-equipment industry:
Hyundai RM19 Mid-Engine Sports Car Prototype
Hyundai Motor Co.’s RM19 Sports Car’s mid-engine body configuration is the culmination of a project that began in 2012 to develop and connect new high-performance motorsports technologies with future Hyundai production models. The rear-drive RM19 is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged, direct-injected gas I-4 with an output of 390 hp and an estimated 0–60 mph time of 4 seconds. The engine is backed by a six-speed sequential transmission and rides on a MacPherson front and double-wishbone rear suspension featuring adjustable geometry. Wheels are 20x8.5J in front, 20x11J in the rear and a Bosch ABS utilizes six-piston calipers up front and four-piston units the rear. While the 2.0L gas engine is the only powerplant at present, Hyundai has hinted that it plans to use the RM series eventually as a test bed for a variety of future high-performance HEV, PHEV and FCEV technologies.
Kia Peaks Into The Future With ’21 Seltos Concepts
Moments after unveiling the all-new ’21 Seltos SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Kia Motors America (KMA) let two Seltos concepts off their leash—the X-Line Trail Attack and X-Line Urban Concept, shown here.
Inspired by the imposing glass and steel skyscrapers of New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, the Urban Concept’s custom slate gray paint scheme is highlighted by a gloss-black roof panel for a splash of stark modernity. The concept features a custom 2-in. lift, which helps to raise the seating position and offer a better vantage point maneuvering around city traffic. Electronically controlled AWD with torque vectoring puts power through the 17x8-in. alloy wheels where it’s needed most: to the tire with optimum traction. Resting below the custom hood complete with integrated intake is the same powerplant found in the Trail Attack Concept, offering authoritative acceleration away from stoplights. Up top, four high-powered Hella auxiliary lights cut through low-hanging city fog and the custom fabricated roof rack will hold all the extra stuff any apartment dweller can amass. The interior features include a 10.25-in. touchscreen navigation system and backup camera.
Audi RS Q8
Audi RS Q8
The all-new Audi RS Q8 made its global debut, combining the practicality of an SUV and performance of an RS.
The RS is powered by a biturbo 4.0L V8 engine said to deliver an estimated 600 hp and 590 lb.-ft. of torque with a 0–60 mph time in the 3.8-second range and a claimed top speed of 189.5 mph when equipped with ceramic brakes. All-wheel drive is actuated through a standard eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, and the RS’s rear differential splits torque between the rear wheels as required when cornering, improving stability and handling dynamics.
The RS rides on an adaptive air suspension with RS-specific tuning, and drivers can further customize their experience using the standard Audi Drive Select system with seven different profiles, each of which recalibrates the car’s throttle response, transmission shift points, steering and braking input, lateral torque distribution and other performance parameters to best suit road conditions.
The RS Q8 will be available in the United States in early 2020.
Land Rover Defender
Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender has returned to the United States for the first time in 22 years. The Defender will be available in three models: A three-door Defender 90 First Edition, a long-wheelbase Defender 110 and a Defender 110 First Edition, with pricing for the base-model D110 starting at $49,900.
Available engines will be the base 2.0L turbocharged I-4 producing 296 hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, and a 3.0L MEHV I-6 producing 395 hp and 406 lb.-ft. Gearing duties for the full-time four-wheel drive are handled by a ZF eight-speed automatic and two-speed transfer case, and the electronic air suspension can be driver-adjusted via a new Configurable Terrain Response system. Eighteen-, 19- and 20-in. wheels are available, depending on trim level, and top-line HSE models get 14-way-adjustable heated and cooled power memory front seats.
The Defender 90 First Edition will be available in spring of 2020, while the longer-wheelbase 110s will be available the following summer.
Hyundai Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept
Hyundai Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept
Hyundai’s Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept is the seventh in a series of Hyundai Design Center concepts expressing Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” global design language. The SUV concept hints at future Hyundai product offerings aimed at eco-conscious buyers.
The Vision T’s charging port is located on the passenger-side rear-quarter panel and features a sliding cover. When charging, “Blue Drive” is illuminated, indicating the system is actively charging. The state of charge is also indicated externally in a circular light cluster, creating a complete circle appearance when fully charged. When driven at higher speeds, the Parametric Air Shutter Grille opens and closes to optimize aerodynamics.
The side window design features frameless openings and satin-chrome trim. The oversize satin-chrome alloy wheels feature ample void areas within the split-five-spoke design. From above, a special glass pattern is embossed within the roof glass. These dynamic effects carry into the dark chrome logo design; when illuminated, it radiates bright green and deep red hues.
’21 Ford Mustang Mach-E
’21 Ford Mustang Mach-E
For the first time in 55 years, Ford has expanded the Mustang lineup, unveiling the ’21 Mustang Mach-E all-electric SUV at a media event, Sunday November 17, at the Petersen Automotive Museum ahead of the 2019 Los Angeles International Auto Show.
The Mustang Mach-E will be available with standard and extended-range battery options with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive powered by permanent magnet motors. Equipped with an extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive, the Mach-E has a targeted EPA-estimated range of at least 300 miles. In extended-range all-wheel-drive configurations, Mach-E’s estimated power output is 332 hp and 417 lb.-ft. of torque.
Two special performance versions will also be available: The GT and GT Performance editions, which will produce an estimated 459 hp and 612 lb.-ft. of torque. The Mach-E will also feature a brand-new all-wheel drive system as well as a MagneRide adaptive suspension.
The Mach-E is slated to go on sale in late 2020 with a base price of $44,995.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport R
Volkswagen to Return to Baja 1000 for 2020
Volkswagen will return to the Baja 1000 off-road race in 2020, entering an Atlas Cross Sport R race truck in Class 7 Open Production Unlimited. The prototype race truck unveiled at the 2019 Los Angeles International Auto Show is the first look at the vehicle that will compete in the SCORE Baja 1000 next November.
Developed in conjunction with VW driver Tanner Foust and Baja race veteran Rhys Millen, the Atlas Cross Sport R will be the first four-wheel-drive vehicle to enter Baja Class 7 competition. Power will be distributed to the wheels from a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, first developed by Volkswagen Motorsport for use in its WRC and Rallycross programs. Capable of running up to 600 hp—or 300 hp per liter—the engine will be detuned to roughly 480 hp for an optimized balance of performance and reliability. Currently in concept form, the vehicle is being tested for further development and finalization before the 2020 race.
Dodge unveiled a limited-production ’20 Challenger package to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Challenger. The package is to be offered on four models, including the Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody shown here. The Challenger Widebody edition will be offered in seven colors; production will be limited to 70 units per color for a total of 490 units.
The Widebody package on Challenger R/T Scat Pack adds 3.5 in. of overall width, rides on 305/35ZR20 Pirelli tires mounted to 20x11-in. wheels. It also includes an SRT-tuned chassis, featuring stiffer front springs, retuned shock absorbers and larger sway bars in both front and rear and SRT-tuned high-performance adaptive damping suspension. According to the manufacturer, the R/T Scat Pack Widebody delivers its best on-road and on-track performance ever, with an improvement of close to two seconds per lap or 12 car lengths compared with the R/T Scat Pack. In a quarter-mile comparison, the new Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody gained .2 seconds, running 12.1 seconds E.T. at 112 mph.