Over the past few weeks, Congress has seen an outpouring of support for the “Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act” (RPM Act). The racing community and the motorsports parts industry have blanketed Congressional offices with nearly 900,000 letters in support of the RPM Act. SEMA thanks everyone who has taken time to submit a letter to their lawmakers, as it is imperative that members of Congress are reminded that they must act to protect racing from EPA overreach. Please keep up the momentum, tell Congress to Save Our Racecars.
SEMA is currently working with the RPM Act’s strongest supporters in Congress to officially reintroduce the bill in a way that maximizes its chances of becoming law. We are also working with congressional offices that support the RPM Act to find other pathways to enact it. Last week, six U.S. Senators requested that the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee include the RPM Act in the highway bill, which must become law before the current authorization expires on September 31, 2021.
Passing the RPM Act is SEMA’s top federal legislative priority, as federal statute must clarify that it is legal to make emissions-related changes to a street vehicle for the purpose of converting it into a dedicated racecar. The RPM Act confirms that it is legal to manufacture, sell and install race parts. The legislation would also reverse the EPA’s interpretation that the Clean Air Act (CAA) does not allow a motor vehicle designed for street use—including a car, truck, or motorcycle—to be converted into a dedicated racecar. This American tradition was unquestioned for nearly 50 years until 2015 when the EPA took the position that converted vehicles must remain emissions-compliant, even though they are no longer driven on public streets or highways.
For details, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.
On March 18, 2021, the California Coastal Commission voted unanimously to abolish off-highway vehicles (OHV) at California’s Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). The action was opposed by organizations representing the off-roading community, including SEMA and the SEMA Action Network (SAN), along with car clubs and individual enthusiasts. The Commission also voted to speed up the timetable for ending OHV access, from five years to three years.
The OHV community is reviewing options to address the action, including filing a lawsuit. Two California agencies with jurisdiction over Oceano Dunes have reached different conclusions on OHV access. The Commission cites environmental concerns as a reason to not renew the permit it issued more than 40 years ago granting OHV access. On the other hand, the California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) which manages the area in collaboration with the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission, is currently reviewing public comments to its proposed Public Works Plan (PWP) for long-range management of the SVRA to include continued OHV access. The deadline for submitting comments on the draft PWP is April 19, 2021.
Oceano Dunes SVRA encompasses nearly 3,600 acres along the Pacific Ocean near San Luis Obispo, of which OHV use is now limited to 1,500 acres or less. Oceano Dunes became a state OHV park in 1974 and is the only such park on California’s coast. It has been enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts from across the country for decades under a permit first issued by the Commission in 1982.
OHV recreation is an important contributor to the local economy. While bringing pleasure to thousands of enthusiasts, the monies spent at area stores, motels, restaurants and gas stations support jobs and generate tax revenues. SEMA will continue to fight to keep Oceano Dunes as an OHV recreation resource.
For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
As previously reported, SEMA has intervened in an EPA enforcement case to protect the rights of racers.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, while acknowledging the fundamental issue raised by SEMA, declined to make a ruling in the lawsuit between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Gear Box Z. Inc. (GBZ). While pursuing GBZ for tampering allegations, the EPA made statements in its court filings that the Clean Air Act (CAA) does not allow a motor vehicle to be converted into a racing vehicle used solely for competition and that equipment installed to make the conversion is illegal. SEMA challenged this flawed interpretation of the CAA first made by the EPA in 2015 and now repeated in the court filing.
The Court ruled that the EPA produced evidence that the subject products sold by GBZ were being used on highway vehicles, with no evidence of use on motor sports vehicles. Therefore, lacking evidence of the converting of road vehicles to dedicated race cars, which would have necessitated the Court address the issue, the Court declined to rule on whether the CAA disallows conversions of street vehicles to dedicated racing machines.
While not settling the street-to-racecar conversion issue, SEMA’s filing of the amicus brief was impactful for several reasons. First, it demonstrates the need for the U.S. Congress to enact the “Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act” (RPM Act), bi-partisan legislation to clarify that it is legal to make such conversions and to produce, market and install racing equipment. Second, the Court’s opinion did offer some favorable language with the Court confirming that it is the EPA’s burden to produce evidence that emissions-related equipment is being used illegally on highway vehicles when making such a claim.
SEMA will continue to work tirelessly to settle the EPA’s overreach by passing the RPM Act.
It is said that Mark Twain is responsible for suggesting that one should “never discuss politics or religion in polite company.” If Mr. Twain were alive today, he would know that avoiding politics is next to impossible, especially if you are a SEMA member.
While politics may be a four-letter word in many households, the reality is that our industry’s future is at stake. Think that’s an exaggeration? Think again.
Our country has just been through a tumultuous election and soon, the politicians in Washington will decide the future of our industry.
EPA emissions compliance, zero-emissions vehicle mandates, vehicle data access and off-roading are all on the agenda. It’s essential that SEMA have a voice in each of these fights.
By law, SEMA may not use association funds to contribute to federal candidates. However, SEMA PAC allows the administrative and executive employees of SEMA-member companies to contribute their personal funds to help elect lawmakers who support our industry’s positions and initiatives.
Government rules require SEMA PAC to get each member company’s permission before it can ask their employees for support. That’s where you come in. It’s an easy process known as becoming prior approved, and it only takes seconds. To make things even easier for you, when you login, the form is partially filled out for you. Becoming prior approved never obligates you or your employees to contribute, but gives SEMA PAC permission to provide more information on its activities and to share strategies for strengthening the industry’s voice in Washington. Best of all, when you sign up, you’ll be among the first to receive the all-new SEMA PAC newsletter, which will launch later this spring.
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) named Sandy Crespo-Mossi as this week’s #SheIsSEMA Spotlight Member. Crespo-Mossi is an operations manager at Oracle Lighting, a manufacturer of designer lighting products and technologies for the automotive powersports, motorcycle and marine markets.
Nominated for #SheIsSEMA by a colleague, Crespo-Mossi is admired as thoughtful, determined and someone who looks to find resolution and motivate company employees. Read about her contributions to the industry, below.
Q: How has Sandy contributed to Oracle Lighting? A: Sandy provides great synergy within our departments. She continues to put processes in place to help our departments function at a higher level.
Q: How has Sandy shown leadership in the industry or business? A: Sandy has grown with the company for nine years and strives to grow the business through organizational practices.
Q: Tell us a success story that you can share about Sandy. A: Sandy implemented a system recently within our company that is a search engine for answering every question you can image. This helps our team stay on top of our customers and provide quick and efficient solutions.
Q: Why do you think Sandy is a role model in this industry? A: She continues to implement processes that allow our business to run smoothly.
Do you know, or are you, a woman with a career in the automotive industry? Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN’s #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN’s social media, SEMA eNews and recognized on the www.sema.org/she-is-sema website.
The Nordic region hosts the headquarters of the European drag-
racing championship. Photo courtesy: Lena Peres – Speedgroup.
Join SEMA on the first SEMA Nordic trip, August 25–29, 2021, in Stockholm, Sweden. Participants will learn the potential for their products in this performance and classic-car paradise. Meet with top trade buyers enabling the half-century-old craze in Sweden and the surrounding countries of Norway, Finland and Denmark to restore and upgrade American classic cars.
Performance is among the top upgrades sought for a range of vehicles. After all, the region hosts the headquarters of the European drag-racing championship. Rally racing and drifting also have their passionate fans and skilled competitors. 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, coupled with a passion for personalization makes this an attractive region.
The SEMA Nordic trip is the fifth region for the popular SEMA Business Development Programs. These overseas low-cost, turnkey events bring together SEMA-member manufacturers and buyers from key global markets. The price of the upcoming trip includes hotels, a table- top 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.
Register now; slots are limited. More information is available at www.sema.org/nordic or contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org to schedule a call.
Jim Liaw – President/Co-Founder, Formula Drift Holdings
Voting will take place online between May 11–25, and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company’s primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company’s designated primary contact beginning April 30. Winners will be announced by May 28.
SEMA Virtual Education remains committed to empowering industry professionals by sharing innovative strategies, information and learnings 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, March 31 – Wheel Knowledge 201: Wheel Testing Methodology
Track: Industry Segments, powered by SEMA Councils and Networks
Series: Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, powered by WTC
Knowing the variation of tests needed to be conducted on modern aftermarket wheels is vital for wheel and tire aftermarket professionals to assure proper adherence to motor vehicle safety guidelines and the safe application of wheels to their customers’ vehicles. This 30-minute webinar will cover critical information that is not often provided in training or learned.
Thursday, April 8 – Vehicle Landscape: Which Cars and Trucks are Hot?
Track: Trends & Research
Series: SEMA Industry Insight Series
Learn more about the current vehicle landscape and emerging trends and opportunities in the automotive aftermarket industry in this upcoming webinar. The SEMA Market Research team will provide an overview of what vehicles are currently on the road, how new vehicle sales and trends are shifting, and identify the hottest car and truck models for customization in the industry—followed by a live Q&A with the webinar speakers.
Wednesday, April 14 - Facebook Live Chat featuring Chris Blair, presented by SEMA YEN
Track: Industry Talks
Tune in to a Facebook Live Chat featuring Chris Blair, executive vice president and general manager of World Wide Technology Raceway. Since joining WWTR in 2012, Blair has overseen the growth and development of the once-shuttered St. Louis track from a 150-acre, racing-only complex to a multi-purpose entertainment venue in excess of 600 acres. As host of the Facebook Live, Blair will discuss steps racetracks have taken to overcome the state lockdowns and their plans moving forward.
Wednesday, April 21 - 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.
Jake Hopkins is the SEMA Young Executives Network’s (YEN) newest spotlight member. Hopkins is a YEN select committee member and the marketing manager at FASS Diesel Fuel Systems, manufacturers of Fuel Air Separation Systems (FASS)—a diesel fuel lift pump and fuel filtration system designed to improve diesel truck fuel mileage, engine performance and extend the life of diesel injection systems.
SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?
Jake Hopkins: Your life isn’t defined by the people in your life, your job or where you live. It’s defined by your attitude about those things.
SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?
JH: How many people get to live their passion? There’s nowhere I’d rather be!
SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
JH: Cleaning my truck or shopping for truck parts.
SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?
JH: Carrying notes and a cup of seriously strong coffee.
SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who it would be?
JH: Brian Scotto, co-founder and chief creative officer of Hoonigan Industries.
If you are a current YEN member, fill out a YEN member spotlight form. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on YEN’s social media, SEMA eNews and YEN member updates.
Back for its fourth year, the 2021 Hot Wheels Legends Tour will
continue the Hot Wheels tradition of offering global fans the
opportunity to have their one-of-a-kind life-size car creations
forever immortalized as the next Hot Wheels Garage of
Legends 1:64 die-cast toy.
The Hot Wheels Legends Tour Returns With Global Hunt for Next Fan-Made Custom Hot Wheels Die-Cast Toy
The 2021 Hot Wheels Legends Tour, presented by Mobil 1, is officially open for fan car submissions. Back for its fourth year, the 2021 Hot Wheels Legends Tour will continue the Hot Wheels tradition of offering global fans the opportunity to have their one-of-a-kind life-size car creations forever immortalized as the next Hot Wheels Garage of Legends 1:64 die-cast toy. With stops spanning 14 countries and five continents, the 2021 showdown will feature both live and virtual events kicking off in April with livestream stops in New Zealand (April 15), Australia (April 22) and the United States and Canada (April 29). Dates for future stops will be announced soon, and fans may register or learn more about the Hot Wheels Legends Tour by visiting www.hotwheels.com/legends. Livestreams will be available to view on the Hot Wheels Facebook page, on Walmart.com and through automotive media partners in specific countries. Live events will return to U.S.-based Walmart stores this summer.
In partnership with Mobil 1, Hot Wheels Legends Tour stops will have regional winners, plus a Mobil 1 Fan Favorite, which will then be entered into the semi-final rounds representing the United States and global regions, yielding 10 finalists. The tour will culminate at a grand finale event in November, where there will be one custom car creation inducted into the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends and honored as the next Hot Wheels die-cast toy sold around the world. In addition to being immortalized as a 1:64 die-cast toy, previous Legends Tour winners, including the 2018 winning 2JetZ and the 2019 winning classic coupe titled “The Nash,” will soon be available for purchase and play through the Forza Horizon 4 video game through the Hot Wheels Legends Car Pack on Xbox, Windows 10, iOS and Android devices.
New Podcast and YouTube Show Sponsored by ARP
Legendary magazine editor Jeff Smith along with his friends—custom car builder Steve Strope and long-time car editor and musclecar expert Cam Benty—have teamed up to talk cars through “Car Guy Confessions With Jeff Smith”—presented by ARP. From high-speed adventures to challenges that face today's car enthusiasts, nothing is off the table for the bi-weekly podcast and YouTube show.
Injected with their veteran technical perspectives, the hosts—along with some special guests—will cover the key topics of the day, automotive projects they are working on, and what they do to make a living each day in the automotive arena.
LSI Chemical and Hot Shot’s Secret Expand Distribution to India
LSI Chemical has announced a new international distributor for India—Quality Group—which is now authorized to sell LSI Chemical oil and fuel additives and to work with LSI Chemical in the development of performance blends of petrol and diesel based on customer specifications. Additionally, Quality Group is now an official distributor of the full line of Hot Shot’s Secret products available for retail for a growing and very sizable India market.
Dr. Yasuhiro Kojina
OTC DAIHEN Inc. Announces Executive Management Change
OTC DAIHEN Inc., a supplier of advanced manual and robotic welding systems, has 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 & Administration Department, FA Robot Division, DAIHEN Corp.
Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation Announces New Board Structure
The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) announced a new board structure, designed to expand the Foundation’s reach to additional markets and under served 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.
According to Joel Ayres, AACF executive director, “The new Board size and structure will enable the Foundation to reach more donors and recipients. The newly structured Board gives AACF a deep bench of great volunteer leaders and enhances our ability to fill key leadership positions that arise due to retirements or other circumstances.” Essentially, we’ve created a leadership development strategy.”
For more information or to get involved with the AACF, contact Ayres at joel@aacfi.org.
TBC Corporation Celebrates 65 Years
The TBC Corp. announced that March 2021 marks the company's 65th anniversary. The company began in 1956, when a purchasing group of tire retailers was formed and collectively recognized as Cordovan Associates. In 1972, after much success, Cordovan Associates changed its name to Tire & Battery Corp. In nine years, the company went public under the name TBC. In 2005, the company was purchased by Sumitomo Corporation of America. Thirteen years later, in 2018, Michelin North America and SCOA entered into a 50-50 joint venture agreement to own TBC. Today, TBC has nearly 3,200 franchised and company-operated tire and automotive service centers, 22 proprietary tire brands and more than 150 distribution centers.
Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.
The 
SEMA Virtual Education remains committed to empowering industry professionals by sharing innovative strategies, information and learnings through new and engaging webinars.
Jake Hopkins is the SEMA 
