SEMA News—September 2019

EVENTS

By Mike Imlay

Buyers: Explore These Early SEMA Show Leads

More Than 250 First-Time Exhibitors Now Registered!

Discovering new products and business contacts is a key buyer aim at the SEMA Show. This list of first-time exhibitors is the ideal starting point.

If you’re a buyer destined for the 2019 SEMA Show, now is the time to strategize a successful Show itinerary. First-time exhibitors are of particular interest because they bring never-before-seen products and services to the Show. As of June, more than 250 first-time exhibitors were already on the floorplan, and that data is offered here so you can get busy preparing a list of leads well before your Las Vegas arrival. Seasoned buyers will tell you that this is one of the best ways to hit the ground running and take full advantage of an active Show week.

The following list is organized by Show category for easy research. Note that many new exhibitors are clustered in the Show’s expansion areas—the Performance Pavilion, the Racing Annex, the Upper South Hall or the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino—so you’ll especially want to target those areas. While these listings are accurate as of press time, the full, up-to-date exhibitor roster that resides online at www.SEMAShow.com/floorplan will always provide the most current status for all exhibitors.

Now is also the time to secure Show credentials and book hotel rooms. Registration is open at www.SEMAShow.com/register. Approved domestic buyers who register online prior to October 12 will pay the lowest price of $40 and will have their badges mailed to them before the Show, thus avoiding lines onsite. Meanwhile, hotel deals can be found at www.SEMAShow.com/travel, courtesy of OnPeak, the SEMA Show’s official housing partner.

List as of 7/8/19

Business Services

Acumatica
www.pcbennett.com
Booth #31240

APA Engineering
www.apaengineering.com
Booth #32226

Bay-masteR Shop Management
www.bay-master.com
Booth #51309

BFM Group
www.bfmgroupinc.com
Booth #33321

Family Business USA
www.familybusinessusa.com
Booth #50402

Kornerstone Credit
www.kornerstonecredit.com
Booth #33245

Lands’ End Business
https://business.landsend.com
Booth #51130

RENA By Neopost
www.renausa.com
Booth #34303

Shanghai Bobang Signage Co. Ltd.
www.bobangsignage.com
Booth #38238

Shopmonkey.io
www.shopmonkey.io
Booth #31227

Son of a Fink Kustoms
www.sonofafink.com
Booth #51001

Surf & Turf Instant Shelters Inc.
www.gosurfturf.com
Booth #31333

Uber for Business
www.uber.com
Booth #50130

Ware2Go
www.ware2go.co
Booth #31335

Weave
www.getweave.com
Booth #51202

Collision Repair & Refinish

BAOSTC
www.baostc.com
Booth #50633

EMM Specialties N.A.
www.emm.com
Booth #50126

Herkules Truck System
www.herkules-sc.pl
Booth #50401

Jiujiang Lida Technology Co. Ltd.
www.lidapetfilm.com
Booth #32273

Johns 360 Coatings
www.johns360coatings.com
Booth #50201

Karshall Industry Co. Ltd.
www.karshall.com
Booth #16624

Kristal Coatings Netherlands
www.kristalcoatings.nl
Booth #50400

Meiji Air Compressor
www.meijiair.co.jp/en
Booth #50803

Mobile Tech RX
www.mobiletechrx.com
Booth #50227

Polimax Eskim
www.polimaxeskim.com
Booth #50731

PREPitX
www.prepitx.net
Booth #38245

RockOz
www.rockoz.com
Booth #50200

SB3 Coatings
www.sb3coating.com
Booth #71011

Spray Booth Services
www.sprayboothservices.net
Booth #50503

Static Solutions
www.prostatdc.com
Booth #50622

Summit Industrial Group Ltd.
www.summitindusgroup.com
Booth #51311

Superpads
www.cztaiyu.com
Booth #50426

Whirlwind Tools Co. Ltd.
www.whirlwindtools.com
Booth #33336

Zibo Riken MT Coated Abrasives Co. Ltd.
en.rikenmt.com
Booth #51200

Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA

Bush Specialty Vehicles
www.bushspecialtyvehicles.com
Booth #44298

Fitment Group
www.fitmentgroup.com
Booth #42332

4JET Technologies GmbH
www.4jet.de/en
Booth #44322

Knight Tyre
www.knightyres.com
Booth #42325

Land Golden Tires
www.landgolden.com
Booth #44305

QingDao Hengda Tyres Co. Ltd.
www.hengdatyre.com
Booth #41329

Shandong Taishan Tyre Co. Ltd.
www.taishantyre.com
Booth #51328

Shandong Wideway Tire Co. Ltd.
www.widewaytire.com
Booth #42318

Sichuan Yuanxing Rubber Co. Ltd.
www.cn-yuanxing.com.cn
Booth #42315

TMA International Tyres
www.tmatyres.com
Booth #40336

TRAC Tire Rotation Assistance Cart
www.liftwithtrac.com
Booth #43336

Triton Valves
www.tritonvalves.com
Booth #40122

US Tire Outlet Inc.
www.ustireoutlet.com
Booth #42314

More than 250 first-time exhibitors have already found a place on the 2019 SEMA Show floorplan, promising a Show packed with fresh opportunities for buyers.

Hot Rod Alley

Hearn Automotive Re-Design
Booth #50707

MotorEx/Summernats
www.motorex.com.au
Booth #51124

Rapid Hot Rods
www.rapidhotrods.com
Booth #38203

Mobile Electronics & Technology

American Bass USA
www.americanbassusa.com
Booth #50231

CTK Ltd.
www.ctk.world
Booth #50732

Guangzhou KingEagle Auto Parts Co. Ltd.
www.ke-car.com
Booth #50428

GU Auto Tech Inc.
www.guautotech.com
Booth #32338

Haining Huagao Import & Export Co. Ltd.
www.icedriver.net
Booth #34345

J&M Corp.
www.jmcorp.com
Booth #51333

Moorechip Technologies Co. Ltd.
www.facebook.com/pg/moorechipVala
Booth #32321

Promata
www.promata.com.au
Booth #34337

Revo Range
www.arirobot.com
Booth #51129

Shenzhen Cartizan Technology Co. Ltd.
www.icartizan.com
Booth #51232

Shenzhen Maustor Science & Technology Co. Ltd.
www.maustor.com
Booth #50107

Shenzhen Proinno Technology Co. Ltd.
www.pro-ele.com
Booth #33329

Shenzhen Windrunner Technology Co. Ltd.
www.szwindrunner.com
Booth #50800

Shenzhen Wins Novelty Technology Co. Ltd.
www.wins-novelty.com
Booth #50430

TFVC (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.
www.tfvcsh.com
Booth #34328

VAIS Technology
www.vaistech.com
Booth #31315

Powersports & Utility Vehicles

Accelerated Systems Inc.
www.accelerated-systems.com
Booth #38007

ACCEL Technology Corp.
www.accel123.com.tw
Booth #36003

Fribest Industry Group Co. Ltd.
www.chinamotorcyclepart.com
Booth #36027

Full Spectrum Power
www.fullspectrumpower.com
Booth #38031

High Desert Motorsports
www.highdesertmotorsports.com
Booth #38034

Jiangsu FMOL Machinery Technology Co. Ltd.
www.fmolmachinery.com
Booth #36025

Nikola Motor Co.
www.nikolamotor.com
Booth #36005

RBO
www.razorbackoffroad.com
Booth #37003

Servis Tyres-Pakistan
www.servistyres.com
Booth #37031

TrailMaster/BV Powersports
www.gopowersports.com
Booth #37008

TYCA Technologies
www.tycatech.com
Booth #38030

Racing & Performance

bFlash by BCConsulting
www.bcconsulting.lu
Booth #22728

Cam Motion Inc.
www.cammotion.com
Booth #72000

ChampCar Endurance Series
www.champcar.org
Booth #51228

Fiveomotorsport
www.fiveomotorsport.com
Booth #50106

GAB Suspension
www.gabsuspension.com
Booth #51029

GXP Performance
www.gxpperformance.com
Booth #51307

IDI Motor Sports USA
www.idijp.com
Booth #50025

Integrated Engineering
www.performancebyie.com
Booth #32335

Keep It Klean
https://keep-it-klean.net
Booth #35345

KPI Performance
www.kingperformanceparts.com
Booth #51303

Marco Italy/Mate USA
www.marco.it
Booth #71005

Meizhou Kamlung Auto Parts Co. Ltd.
www.kamlungint.com
Booth #33331

Modern Driveline
www.moderndriveline.com
Booth #50323

Namyang Nexmo Co. Ltd.
www.nynexmo.com
Booth #51226

Neotech Suspension & Brakes
www.neosus.co.kr
Booth #50129

Ningbo Aegeus Exhaust System Co. Ltd.
www.aegeusexhaust.com
Booth #50900

Noble Industries Inc. & Madsen Wire Products
www.nobleindustries.com
Booth #50931

OBD Solutions LLC
www.obdsol.com
Booth #34314

Power Plus Lubricants
www.powerpluslubricants.com
Booth #44301

PRAZIS Auto Parts Inc.
www.prazis-airsus.com
Booth #34300

Promaxx Performance Products
www.promaxxperformance.com
Booth #34312

Racingline
www.racingline.com
Booth #50205

Raemco Red Wood Co. Inc.
www.redwood.com.tw
Booth #50206

REDSTAR Exhaust
www.redstarexhaust.com
Booth #50432

Remark Inc.
www.remark-usa.com
Booth #72011

RUSH Auto Works Inc.
www.rushautoworks.com
Booth #30345

SF Racing Co. Ltd.
www.sf-racing.com
Booth #34335

Shandong Stopart Brake Materials Co. Ltd.
www.stopartcn.com
Booth #30318

Sullivan Performance Products
www.sullivanperformance.com
Booth #72002

TPI Arcade Inc.
www.tpicast.com
Booth #50528

Turnkey Industries
www.tkind.com
Booth #61020

XING Mobility
www.xingmobility.com
Booth #50904

Restoration Marketplace

Retro-Fit USA
www.spiralindustries.com
Booth #50628

Turbostart
www.turbostart.com
Booth #73009

Restyling & Car Care Accessories

AeroCatch
www.aerocatch.com
Booth #50329

The Bracketeer
www.thebracketeer.com
Booth #71000

Changzhou Wenye Auto Lamp Co. Ltd.
www.wyautolamp.com
Booth #51426

Changzhou Yizhao Auto Exterior Parts Co. Ltd.
www.autotuning-china.com
Booth #51325

Conergies Laminating & Coating
www.onerpro.com.cn
Booth #38231

Cynosura International Co. Ltd.
www.j2e-auto.com
Booth #30344

DefenderN
www.defendern.com
Booth #51222

DeOdorPro
www.clo2deliverysystems.com
Booth #50124

EAS40-1000 Rollover Inlet Check Valve Fuel Tank Repair
www.ellisautomationsurplus.com
Booth #33319

Eclipse Sunshades
www.eclipsesunshades.net
Booth #51204

Element 119
www.element119.com
Booth #50105

Flamingo Car Care Tech Co. Ltd.
www.flamingocarcare.com
Booth #48233

Guangdong Carbonss Tuning Co. Ltd.
www.carbonss.com
Booth #74005

Guangzhou Joesong New Materials Technology Co. Ltd.
www.gzjoesong.com
Booth #34344

Guangzhou Wanlong Automotive Products Co. Ltd.
www.wl-auto.com
Booth #35344

Guangzhou Yagai Trade Co. Ltd.
www.dcrtuning.com
Booth #48227

Hyperformance Glass Products LLC
www.hyperformanceglassproducts.com
Booth #30289

I.M Technology Co. Ltd.
www.twim.com.tw
Booth #34292

Koch-Chemie
www.koch-chemie.de/en
Booth #32317

KOLCHUGA
www.kolchuga-group.com
Booth #50730

Legendz Carbon Auto Parts LLC
www.legendzcarbon.com
Booth #32332

MFR Engineering Inc.
www.mfrengineering.com
Booth #40296

Moso Natural
www.mosonatural.com
Booth #50404

NuVinAir Global
www.nuvinair.com
Booth #51301

Olein Refinery & Lubricants
www.oleinrefinery.com
Booth #50406

Padxpress
www.padxpress.fr
Booth #34331

REV Auto
www.rev-automotive.com
Booth #32322

Rhino Films & Detailing
www.rhinowash.net
Booth #34339

Rustkote Corrosion Prevention
www.rustkote.com
Booth #31323

Sam’s Detailing
www.samsdetailing.co.uk
Booth #33317

SeatbeltPlanet.com
www.seatbeltplanet.com
Booth #50326

Shanghai Sepna Chemical Technology Co. Ltd.
www.sepna.cc
Booth #50301

Shenzhen i-Like Fine Chemical Co. Ltd.
www.ilikegroup.com
Booth #48229

Sideways Fab
www.sidewaysfab.com
Booth #50304

SLIPLO Universal Skid Plates
www.sliplo.com
Booth #70011

Three Hundred
www.threehundred.jp
Booth #30299

3W Auto Accessory
www.3wliners.com
Booth #32325

TUXMAT The Ulitmate Car Mat
www.tuxmat.ca
Booth #33316

Waxedshine
www.waxedshine.com
Booth #51206

Zhejiang Purple Light Technology Co. Ltd.
www.uv400.cn
Booth #33345

Tools & Equipment

Airworks Compressors Corp.
www.airworkscompressors.com
Booth #51133

Alltrade Tools
www.alltradetools.com
Booth #51107

American Sweeping
www.firmhorn.com
Booth #50902

Auto-Grip
www.autogrip.com
Booth #51331

Bengbu City Wanglin Manufacturing Co. Ltd.
Booth #38233

The Cut N Go
www.thecutngo.com
Booth #32336

Dalian Newstar Automobile Equipment Co. Ltd.
www.nsttool.com
Booth #34346

Dedeco International Inc.
www.dedeco.com
Booth #44336

DJ Products
www.djproducts.com
Booth #51101

Easy Kleen Pressure Systems Ltd.
www.easykleen.com
Booth #31344

Eco-Plug-System LLC
www.ecoplugsystem.com
Booth #51003

FactoryCat Industrial Cleaning Equipment
www.factorycat.com
Booth #50601

Forecast 3D
www.forecast3d.com
Booth #50925

Fumoto USA
www.fumotousa.com
Booth #34308

GD CARE Inc.
www.gdcareinc.com
Booth #50626

GEDORE Tools Inc.
www.gedoretools.com
Booth #15007

Hangzhou Scantech Co. Ltd.
www.3d-scantech.com
Booth #33325

Hangzhou Xunchi Tools Co. Ltd.
https://xunchigongju.1688.com
Booth #34310

Harbor Freight Tools
www.harborfreight.com
Booth #15307

IDUTEX Technology Co. Ltd.
www.idutex.com
Booth #43323

International Surface Technologies
www.istsurface.com
Booth #34313

Lanair
www.lanair.com
Booth #51128

MAKEiT Inc.
www.makeit-3d.com
Booth #31337

MatterHackers Inc.
www.matterhackers.com
Booth #51332

Midwest Innovative Products
www.twistandseal.com
Booth #33339

Milton Industries
www.miltonindustries.com
Booth #50405

Milwaukee Tool
www.milwaukeetool.com
Booth #30319

Mosmatic Corp.
www.mosmatic.com
Booth #42324

Next Generation Power
www.nextgenerationpower.com
Booth #50202

No-Spill Systems Inc.
www.nospillsystems.com
Booth #34316

NuVant Systems Inc.
www.nuvant.com
Booth #32331

PEM Inc.
www.pemequip.com
Booth #30307

PipeKnife
www.PipeKnife.com
Booth #50532

Plastica Panaro Srl
www.plasticapanaro.it
Booth #50805

Powertac USA Inc.
www.powertac.com
Booth #50802

Qingdao PLR Electric Co. Ltd.
www.plrcn.com
Booth #50801

SGCB Autocare
www.sgcbautocare.com
Booth #51205

Shenzhen Hong Xuntong Electronic Technology Co. Ltd.
www.onsu-cable.com
Booth #34332

Soartec Industrial Corp.
www.soartec.com.tw
Booth #51402

SpliSeal
www.spliseal.com
Booth #50530

SP Tools USA
www.sptools-usa.com
Booth #10176

SPXFLOW Stone Hydraulics Powerteam Hydraulics
www.spxhydraulictech.com
Booth #51233

TeraPump
www.terapump.net
Booth #50303

Thexton Manufacturing Co. Inc.
www.thexton.com
Booth #42322

Top One Machinery Co. Ltd.
www.topone-m.com
Booth #35336

Triumph Twist Drill
www.triumphtwistdrill.com
Booth #50631

Tsugami/Rem Sales
www.remsales.com
Booth #50726

Vessel Tools
www.vesseltoolsusa.com
Booth #50700

Wiha Tools
www.wihatools.com
Booth #41305

Wright CNC
www.wrightcnc.com
Booth #50007

Yamada America
www.yamadapump.com
Booth #16424

Zünd
www.zund.com
Booth #50823

Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road

Airbag Man
www.airbagman.com.au
Booth #31339

ALL-TOP 4X4
www.alltop4x4.com
Booth #31341

Alpha Rex
www.alpharexusa.com
Booth #30267

Anhui Aggeus Auto-tech Co. Ltd.
www.woden.net.cn
Booth #30312

Bedder Covers
www.beddercovers.com
Booth #34289

EVO Manufacturing
www.evomfg.com
Booth #33277

Flat Out Autos
www.flatoutautos.com
Booth #32303

FlexTread
www.flextreadmats.com
Booth #35324

FOA
www.f-o-a.com
Booth #32345

Foshan Nanhai Hengyun Auto Accessory Co. Ltd.
www.everluck4x4.en.alibaba.com
Booth #38241

Foshan Shanshan Electric & Technology Co. Ltd.
www.fs-shanshan.com
Booth #51327

GEORGE4X4 Recovery Gear
www.george4x4.com.au
Booth #38248

Gladiator Cargo Nets
www.gladiatorcargonet.com
Booth #38201

Guangzhou Chiming Electronic Technology Co. Ltd.
https://cmled.en.china.cn
Booth #38222

Guangzhou Nic-light Electronic Products Co. Ltd.
www.nic-light.com
Booth #38237

Hollywood Accessories
https://davesautoacc.com
Booth #33340

MAG-BAR
www.magbar.com
Booth #38229

Malone Auto Racks
www.maloneautoracks.com
Booth #37227

MAXIMUS-3
www.maximus-3.com
Booth #30292

MENABO
www.menaboamerica.com
Booth #35284

Multy Rack Systems
www.multyrack.com
Booth #32309

Ningbo Goldy International
https://goldy.en.alibaba.com
Booth #32320

Ningbo Leise Outdoor Products Co. Ltd.
www.monster4wd.com
Booth #33283

Ningbo Salman International Trade Co. Ltd.
www.nbsalman.com
Booth #38227

Northern Lite Truck Campers/Off Grid Trailers
www.northern-lite.com
Booth #30275

Overland Vehicle Systems LLC
www.overlandvehiclesystems.com
Booth #30283

Paramount Impex
www.paramount-india.com
Booth #33338

Rapid Switch Systems
www.rapidswitchsystems.com
Booth #34319

Reliable Engineered Products LLC
www.beunruli.com
Booth #51404

Rocbilt Industries
www.rocbilt.com
Booth #35312

RockJock 4x4 by John Currie
www.currieenterprises.com
Booth #34285

Rotopax
www.rotopax.com
Booth #30313

RSI SmartCap
www.rsismartcanopy.com
Booth #30327

Shenzhen New Way Technology Co. Ltd.
www.newway-s.com
Booth #51132

Sunpie Technology Ltd. Co.
www.sunpie.co
Booth #34325

Supreme Suspensions
www.supremesuspensions.com
Booth #38219

TRE 4X4
www.tre4x4.com
Booth #51103

UBOX Offroad
www.ubox-offroad.com
Booth #32339

Wenling Haifeng Differential Gear Co. Ltd.
www.off-road.net.cn
Booth #50533

Wheels & Accessories

Chiping Xinfa Aluminous Product Co. Ltd.
www.xinfawheels.com
Booth #47239

4PLAY Wheels
www.4playwheels.com
Booth #47211

Impact Wheels
www.impactwheels.com
Booth #48133

Kompression Wheels
www.kompressionwheels.com
Booth #48193

New Light Wheel Engineering & Technology Co. Ltd.
www.jastoowheel.com/en/index.asp
Booth #45298

Ningbo Sanlishin Auto Parts Co. Ltd.
https://sanlishin.en.ecplaza.net
Booth #34330

Shanghai Jihoo Import & Export Co. Ltd.
www.jihoosh.com
Booth #48187

Simbolo X Design
www.simbolox.design
Booth #47221

STREN
www.stren-composites.com
Booth #44314

3D Billet Products
www.3dbilletproducts.com
Booth #49235

Wheel-eez/Cork Industries
www.removesugly.com
Booth #44337

Zhongnan Aluminum Wheel (Guangdong) Co. Ltd.
www.znlwheel.com
Booth #44328

SEMA News—September 2019

RETAIL SPOTLIGHT

By Chad Simon

SuperATV

Turning on the “Wow” Factor to Elevate the Customer-Service Experience

SuperATV had a strong showing at this year’s Rally on the Rocks in Moab, Utah.

Harold Hunt, owner of SuperATV in Madison, Indiana, is a motorsports enthusiast, and he instills that same passion in the people he hires. They aren’t just clerks; they go out on the weekends and ride so that they can come back to the shop and relate their product knowledge and experience to customers.

We spoke with Josh South, SuperATV’s director of marketing and technology, to get his take on how the company became successful in the marketplace.

SEMA News: Who is your target market and demographic?

Josh South: Our target demographic is an enthusiast market—the guys who are going out on weekends, riding through the creeks and mudholes—but we serve every aspect of the UTV market, which includes racing teams, the average Joe who owns a farm and owns a Ranger, and the guy who’s out every weekend and wants a jacked-up machine. Our customers range in age from 24 to 50.

SN: Is the UTV market more recreational or vocational?

JS: At this time, it’s more recreational, but we’re seeing more individuals using them for vocational usage as time goes on because the machines are getting more powerful and versatile.

SN: How has the business grown over the years?

SuperATV attends enthusiast events to mix with their customers and understand their product needs.

JS: Business has exploded due to more people starting to use these machines. They want to take them higher in performance and lift, with new tires, doors and windshields. They really want to accessorize them like cars now more than anything.

SN: What’s been the toughest challenge you’ve faced?

JS: Making sure we get the products out to the customer as soon as the new models become available. For example, the Honda Talon was recently released. We get the machine when it’s available at the dealership. It’s kind of a chicken-and-egg thing going on. We have to wait until the machine gets there before we can develop the products. We sell just about any aftermarket accessory you can think of for UTVs.

SN: What has been one of your most rewarding successes, and what risks has the company taken along the way?

JS: Being able to be first to the market with some of the products. We produced one of the first windshields that was available for purchase for the Honda Talon. Another one is our GDP Portal line. It’s revolutionizing the industry. We are the name when it comes to gear reduction, and being able to provide that service and that product to the customer has been rewarding for us.

With R&D and testing, we push the curve with our products, and the Portals are a perfect example of that. We took a chance with our axle lines and some of our new-product development, and the risk we have taken with that is that the market will adapt and want those products.

SN: What draws customers to your store? Do you get repeat business?

JS: The factor that drives customers to our store is that we want to make sure our products are affordable while at the same time being the highest-quality available. We’ve invested in R&D and testing to make sure we get high-quality products at affordable prices for our customers.

Josh South, SuperATV’s director of marketing and technology, attributes the company’s success to the fact that the company’s owner, Harold Hunt, is an enthusiast, and he and his employees personally test the products they develop.

SN: What factors do you attribute your success to?

JS: The primary factor is that our owners are enthusiasts. Friday afternoons, they go jump on the machines and test the products that we’re developing, making sure we’re getting the best product out to our customers, because they don’t want our customers to ride it if we’re not going to ride it.

Secondly, our goal is to “wow” the customer every single day. For example, we have 30 people providing phone support to our customers every day. We have fitment experts to make sure the products fit our machines.

SN: How do you market the company?

JS: We are heavy into social media, email marketing, magazines, trade shows and race-team sponsorships. We take advantage of anywhere we can get out so that our customers can see us.

SN: How do you train staff to best serve the company?

JS: We have product experts—guys who know the machines backward and forward—and we do installation training with them. We’re tearing down machines and doing installations so that the people answering the phones actually have hands-on experience in servicing the machines.

SN: What portion of your overall sales comes from online?

JS: Online sales represent the majority of our sales. We get very few walk-ins because of our location. We are in the Midwest, and we ship product all over the world. We are a global company. Our products really fit to the mold of e-commerce and online shopping. Most of our products are small enough that they can be easily shipped, and I think the demographic of this market has that hands-on experience of wanting to install the products on their machines. It’s easy when you can go online, find your product, have it shipped and, within two to three days, it’s sitting on your porch.

SN: What are your plans for future growth?

JS: We are opening a new retail and shipping storefront later this year in Shreveport, Louisiana. At our current location in Madison, Indiana, we have customer pickup available. One of our focuses on Shreveport is that it’s going to be a retail space to try to provide product to the people in the southern half of the country that really have adapted to our products, and they can come and pick them up.

SN: What advice would you offer a retailer starting out in the market?

JS: It’s about knowing your customer, and that’s where SuperATV has succeeded. This company started because the owner, Harold Hunt, was riding in the back creeks of Indiana and wanted to get an extra lift on the Sportsman ATV he was riding. He built a lift kit for it, and soon after, his buddies wanted one, and his buddies’ buddies wanted one, and that’s what grew this business. These guys really know the customers, the market, and what the customers want on their machines to get optimal performance.

SEMA News—September 2019

HERITAGE

By Drew Hardin

Monster Family

Photo Courtesy Jim Brown, Petersen Publishing Company Archive

SEMA News—September 2019

Max Your ROI at This Year’s SEMA Show

Chris Kersting

Preparations for the 2019 SEMA Show are in full swing, and staff just delivered our annual Exhibitor Summit—a two-day info-fest to help new AND seasoned exhibitors learn how to capture maximum value from the SEMA Show. How do we know what makes up a successful Show strategy? You give us the answers—through post-Show surveys completed annually by thousands of SEMA Show buyers and exhibitors. These surveys help us stay current with the objectives of buyers and sellers, identifying trends and seeing where buyers and exhibitors are aligned—and sometimes misaligned. Below are some top examples where exhibiting manufacturers may be missing the mark—and how to get on target.

Myth: “We don’t sell at the SEMA Show.”

Fact: That may be true for some exhibitors, but many buyers are interested. More than 40% of buyers tell us they placed an order from an exhibitor while at the Show. Of those buyers, 88% told us they took advantage of special sales or discounts offered during the Show. The takeaway is that many buyers do come to the Show looking to buy, and exhibitors can benefit by making known Show discounts programs that will secure an order if the opportunity is there.

Myth: “The interested buyers will find my booth…”

Fact: Actually, it’s clear that just buying a booth and waiting for the right people to come by is not the best way to maximize ROI. Year after year, buyers report they visit booths based on similar factors. First, contacting buyers in advance of the Show can be highly productive, whether via email, social media or other marketing methods. Of those buyers who reported receiving contact from exhibitors prior to the Show, more than 80% were more likely to visit some or all of those exhibitors’ booths. Second, a large percentage say that they were influenced to visit an exhibitor based on a product display in the New Product Showcase, which is consistently the number-one buyer destination at the SEMA Show. And while it’s true that buyers do browse sections of the Show, buyers report that product displays and demonstrations, booth design, and promotional activities, such as celebrity signings—in that order—are reasons why they stop and talk. Interestingly, the size and location of a booth are the least important factors prompting buyers to visit.

Myth: “I can’t take advantage of the New Product Showcase because I’m not introducing a new product this year.”

Fact: The New Product Showcase, the top Show destination for more than 80% of buyers, also has space for “featured products,” which are displayed in the same location. A featured product may not meet the criteria for the “new” product competition, but may very well be new to buyers, and be of interest to those expanding the scope of their business. Like the New Product Showcase, cost is minimal and the first product is free.

In short, the successful exhibitor gives buyers what they are looking for. That would include a booth that prioritizes display of products, and placement of products in the New Product Showcase to make products more visible. The successful exhibitor also markets to buyers before the Show, offers incentives to buyers who are prepared to close deals on the spot, and also collects leads to follow up after the Show. These factors were consistent no matter the size of the company or the size or location of the booth. This year’s SEMA Show promises to be another great opportunity for sales and growth for the industry. And that’s especially true for those exhibitors who don’t let “myths” hold them back.

SEMA News—September 2019

BUSINESS

Automotive Specialty-Equipment Sales Climb to a New High of $44.6 Billion

By Chad Simon

Specialty-equipment parts sales hit a new high in 2018 of $44.6 billion. Sales are projected to reach nearly $46 billion in 2019.

The automotive specialty-equipment market kept humming along to the tune of $44.6 billion in total parts sales in 2018—a 4% increase over 2017, according to the just-released “2019 SEMA Market Report.” Rumors continue to circulate that young people have disengaged from the automotive aftermarket hobby, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Young customizers spent more than $7 billion on parts.

The economy started to experience some volatility last year, and more of the same is expected into 2019. As of now, however, consumer sentiment is still strong, and people are still spending. Slower growth is forecasted through 2019, with projected retail sales to hit a new high of nearly
$46 billion.

“There is still a lot of uncertainty,” noted Kyle Cheng, SEMA market research manager. “Our market tends to be discretionary, so disruptions such as trade wars could dampen our growth projections, but the industry is still positive and market signs are still good as of now.”

Non-enthusiasts make up 55% of the total specialty-equipment market.

A Non-Enthusiast Majority

It’s important to note that enthusiasts are not the majority of accessorizors; they make up 45% of consumers. A slight majority are non-enthusiasts who purchase less-glamorous parts such as wheels and tires, which SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp refers to as the “gateway drug.” Consumers often start there because those products make an obvious visual difference and sometimes lead to other modifications as consumers catch the bug.

“Or maybe they’ll do wheels and tires and nothing else,” Cheng said. “They want other people to do the work for them. However, enthusiasts tend to spend the most money on parts and do the more extensive modifications.”

Some people are motivated by appearance, so they may be into external accessorization, while others are into traditional under-the-hood performance.

Pickups Remain Industry’s Driver

The automotive specialty-equipment market is splintered into several different vehicle segments, with pickups once again making up the largest share at 27%. Product growth varies by segment, but off-road tires, exterior utility items and suspension systems are the most profitable with pickups.

“Pickups are the perfect vehicle for us,” Knapp said. “You can do anything from lifting to appearance and functional stuff. It will be interesting to see whether consumers will behave like car buyers or truck buyers as OEMs create fewer sedans and move their resources toward CUVs and SUVs, and whether they will look for performance parts or accessorize for fun and utility.”

Ford has announced plans to stop production of many of its passenger cars, but with the average lifespan of a vehicle at about 10 years, it will take that long for the change to trickle into the market. Due to high gas prices and a shift toward smaller engines, consumers want power, but they want fuel efficiency, too, which is partially why CUVs are more popular.

“People like power, but they don’t want to pay for it,” Cheng said. “You don’t find a lot of V8s now; instead, you find a lot of turbocharged V6s.”

Nearly 60% of specialty-equipment parts are purchased at physical locations vs. 40% purchased online.

The Emergence of ADAS

Although the industry is witnessing an extended growth period across the board since the last recession, one area that has experienced the slowest growth is the mobile-electronics segment, which has remained stagnant during the past few years at just over $1 billion. However, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are relatively new to the market over the past couple years and continue to grow as more products become available.

“ADAS is a new market for us to track, so there’s not a lot of history to determine trends,” Knapp said. “People are still trying to figure out where the opportunities are. With ADAS, the products that are available to consumers as retrofit are simplistic, such as backup cameras. As retrofit, we don’t have the same options as the OEMs.”

Pickups comprise 27% of the vehicle market.

Online vs. Retail Sales

While the digital marketplace continues to grow, brick-and-mortar sales (59%) still outpace online sales (41%). This year’s report contains information across the different parts types about how consumers order and pick up.

“You can go into a store and have parts sent to you or order online and have them sent to you, but we’re seeing a good chunk of people who order online and go pick the parts up,” Knapp said. “It varies based on product category, and shipping has something to do with that. There are also differences in products that you would want immediately. You could buy oil online and wait for it, but if you’re changing your oil, you’re probably going to want to do it now, so you would go into the store and pick it up.”

Sales-channel preferences depend on how easy it is to do the work yourself and the degree of difficulty in finding products. For instance, parts for classic cars and engine upgrades tend to be easier to find online.

Age and ability or comfort level within the hobby are also factors in buying behavior. Older consumers are more used to going to the store for purchases, while those with the most ability tend to purchase more online because they don’t need the reassurance of talking to a salesperson and are less likely to need someone to install parts for them. Hardcore consumers can make up their owns minds, do their research online and have parts shipped
to them.

About 41% of total accessorizors ordered parts in-store and picked them up themselves.

Youth Engagement

The SEMA market research team recently completed the “SEMA Young Accessorizors Report”—a study on the buying behaviors of young people in the industry—and data from the “2019 SEMA Market Report” backs up what they found. The highest accessorization rate is among young consumers, and it slows as they get older.

“Younger people are the most important piece of our industry,” Knapp said. “About a third of our industry is under 30 years old. There is always the perception that young people don’t have any money; however, they have time and desire, so they will spend all the money they have on what they desire.”

Younger consumers are more likely to spend money on extensive and complicated procedures, such as under-the-hood modifications. For them, it’s more about showing off on social media.

“Part of that is ‘Look what I got, look what I can do,’ and they post everything on social media,” Knapp said. “The big takeaway is that we don’t find that young people are deserting our industry. People say that this generation is all about personalization. Why think that someone is going to personalize their phone, which you’re not going to see because it’s in their pocket, but they’re not going to personalize the car that they drive on the road
every day?”

About 79% of consumers who bought chemicals were do-it-yourselfers, while 67% of those who purchased wheels and tires had them professionally installed.

Reaction to Gas Prices

Although gas prices have increased recently, it is not affecting consumer behavior much. Consumers are still projected to purchase larger cars with supercharged and turbocharged engines; however, high gas prices over an extended period might push manufacturers to build smaller engines that are both more powerful and more fuel efficient.

“As we see these little spikes and fluctuations, there doesn’t seem to be a big consumer reaction to it or that it’s going to be an ongoing problem,” Knapp said. “There is a trend toward smaller engines with forced induction, not necessarily in response to higher gas prices but in response to higher expectations of
fuel economy.”

The Bottom Line

“2019 SEMA Market Report” Fast Facts

In 2018, the automotive specialty-equipment market hit a new high of $44.6 billion in total parts sales. Sales are projected to increase to nearly $46 billion in 2019. Young consumers poured $7 billion into the industry in 2018. Non-enthusiasts make up 55% of the total market. Pickups once again make up the largest vehicle segment with a 27% market share. About 60% of specialty-equipment parts are sold in stores vs. 40% online.

Despite an unpredictable economy, the automotive specialty-equipment industry is still going strong, according to Cheng, and most experts don’t foresee a recession for at least another year. People are still cautiously optimistic. Just last May, the index for consumer sentiment topped 100 for only the fifth time since 2010, and the job market is at full employment.

“We are in the longest growth period since the last recession,” Cheng said. “There’s a lot of uncertainty and uncertainty causes panic, but panic doesn’t always lead to a recession. No one knows when the next one will happen; it won’t be as bad as in 2008 and 2009, but recessions are a natural part of our economic growth.”

Although the economy is still robust, Cheng cautions that one bad policy—for instance, ongoing trade wars—could derail the industry because it is so reliant on the global supply chain that any disruption could be detrimental. Tariffs are not helping either because fear has actually driven the price of steel up.

Looking ahead, Knapp projects continued but slowed growth for the industry, partially due to a slowed growth rate in new-vehicle sales.

“OEMs are still selling vehicles at historic levels; they’re just not growing those levels year after year,” Knapp said. “That impacts us because people start to accessorize as soon as they buy a new vehicle. With tariffs, the big question will be if the input prices of steel and aluminum push prices of our industry’s parts up. Will manufacturers internalize higher costs or push them directly out to the consumer?”

The “2019 SEMA Market Report” is free and a benefit of SEMA membership. Along with a host of other free industry reports, it can be found at www.sema.org/market-research. The SEMA market research team is available to help the industry directly. If you have any specific questions, contact SEMA Market Research Manager Matt Kennedy at mattk@sema.org or 909-978-6730.

Where Does the Data Come From?

For nearly 30 years, SEMA has produced its annual market report with the goal of helping membership understand the size and shape of the automotive specialty-equipment market, look for trends over time, and hone in on particular market subsectors. The data comes from a variety of sources. The main market-sizing estimates that comprise the bulk of the study are based on a large-scale consumer survey that is sent to a representative population of drivers across the United States. SEMA surveys more than 20,000 people to find out what kinds of vehicles they own, what they do with them, whether they buy specialty parts and accessories, where they buy them, how much they pay, etc. SEMA market research dives deep into forecasting in terms of expected future trends based on the “SEMA Future Trends Report.” The market research team also produces a monthly “SEMA Industry Indicators report,” which provides government information about how the economy is doing. A snapshot of the SEMA Show’s attendance and what sections are hot helps provide the industry’s pulse. Finally, SEMA highlights data from industry professionals about what they think about the state of the industry and whether they feel optimistic about the future.

SEMA News—September 2019

BUSINESS

Automotive Specialty-Equipment Sales Climb to a New High of $44.6 Billion

By Chad Simon

Specialty-equipment parts sales hit a new high in 2018 of $44.6 billion. Sales are projected to reach nearly $46 billion in 2019.

The automotive specialty-equipment market kept humming along to the tune of $44.6 billion in total parts sales in 2018—a 4% increase over 2017, according to the just-released “2019 SEMA Market Report.” Rumors continue to circulate that young people have disengaged from the automotive aftermarket hobby, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Young customizers spent more than $7 billion on parts.

The economy started to experience some volatility last year, and more of the same is expected into 2019. As of now, however, consumer sentiment is still strong, and people are still spending. Slower growth is forecasted through 2019, with projected retail sales to hit a new high of nearly
$46 billion.

“There is still a lot of uncertainty,” noted Kyle Cheng, SEMA market research manager. “Our market tends to be discretionary, so disruptions such as trade wars could dampen our growth projections, but the industry is still positive and market signs are still good as of now.”

Non-enthusiasts make up 55% of the total specialty-equipment market.

A Non-Enthusiast Majority

It’s important to note that enthusiasts are not the majority of accessorizors; they make up 45% of consumers. A slight majority are non-enthusiasts who purchase less-glamorous parts such as wheels and tires, which SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp refers to as the “gateway drug.” Consumers often start there because those products make an obvious visual difference and sometimes lead to other modifications as consumers catch the bug.

“Or maybe they’ll do wheels and tires and nothing else,” Cheng said. “They want other people to do the work for them. However, enthusiasts tend to spend the most money on parts and do the more extensive modifications.”

Some people are motivated by appearance, so they may be into external accessorization, while others are into traditional under-the-hood performance.

Pickups Remain Industry’s Driver

The automotive specialty-equipment market is splintered into several different vehicle segments, with pickups once again making up the largest share at 27%. Product growth varies by segment, but off-road tires, exterior utility items and suspension systems are the most profitable with pickups.

“Pickups are the perfect vehicle for us,” Knapp said. “You can do anything from lifting to appearance and functional stuff. It will be interesting to see whether consumers will behave like car buyers or truck buyers as OEMs create fewer sedans and move their resources toward CUVs and SUVs, and whether they will look for performance parts or accessorize for fun and utility.”

Ford has announced plans to stop production of many of its passenger cars, but with the average lifespan of a vehicle at about 10 years, it will take that long for the change to trickle into the market. Due to high gas prices and a shift toward smaller engines, consumers want power, but they want fuel efficiency, too, which is partially why CUVs are more popular.

“People like power, but they don’t want to pay for it,” Cheng said. “You don’t find a lot of V8s now; instead, you find a lot of turbocharged V6s.”

Nearly 60% of specialty-equipment parts are purchased at physical locations vs. 40% purchased online.

The Emergence of ADAS

Although the industry is witnessing an extended growth period across the board since the last recession, one area that has experienced the slowest growth is the mobile-electronics segment, which has remained stagnant during the past few years at just over $1 billion. However, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are relatively new to the market over the past couple years and continue to grow as more products become available.

“ADAS is a new market for us to track, so there’s not a lot of history to determine trends,” Knapp said. “People are still trying to figure out where the opportunities are. With ADAS, the products that are available to consumers as retrofit are simplistic, such as backup cameras. As retrofit, we don’t have the same options as the OEMs.”

Pickups comprise 27% of the vehicle market.

Online vs. Retail Sales

While the digital marketplace continues to grow, brick-and-mortar sales (59%) still outpace online sales (41%). This year’s report contains information across the different parts types about how consumers order and pick up.

“You can go into a store and have parts sent to you or order online and have them sent to you, but we’re seeing a good chunk of people who order online and go pick the parts up,” Knapp said. “It varies based on product category, and shipping has something to do with that. There are also differences in products that you would want immediately. You could buy oil online and wait for it, but if you’re changing your oil, you’re probably going to want to do it now, so you would go into the store and pick it up.”

Sales-channel preferences depend on how easy it is to do the work yourself and the degree of difficulty in finding products. For instance, parts for classic cars and engine upgrades tend to be easier to find online.

Age and ability or comfort level within the hobby are also factors in buying behavior. Older consumers are more used to going to the store for purchases, while those with the most ability tend to purchase more online because they don’t need the reassurance of talking to a salesperson and are less likely to need someone to install parts for them. Hardcore consumers can make up their owns minds, do their research online and have parts shipped
to them.

About 41% of total accessorizors ordered parts in-store and picked them up themselves.

Youth Engagement

The SEMA market research team recently completed the “SEMA Young Accessorizors Report”—a study on the buying behaviors of young people in the industry—and data from the “2019 SEMA Market Report” backs up what they found. The highest accessorization rate is among young consumers, and it slows as they get older.

“Younger people are the most important piece of our industry,” Knapp said. “About a third of our industry is under 30 years old. There is always the perception that young people don’t have any money; however, they have time and desire, so they will spend all the money they have on what they desire.”

Younger consumers are more likely to spend money on extensive and complicated procedures, such as under-the-hood modifications. For them, it’s more about showing off on social media.

“Part of that is ‘Look what I got, look what I can do,’ and they post everything on social media,” Knapp said. “The big takeaway is that we don’t find that young people are deserting our industry. People say that this generation is all about personalization. Why think that someone is going to personalize their phone, which you’re not going to see because it’s in their pocket, but they’re not going to personalize the car that they drive on the road
every day?”

About 79% of consumers who bought chemicals were do-it-yourselfers, while 67% of those who purchased wheels and tires had them professionally installed.

Reaction to Gas Prices

Although gas prices have increased recently, it is not affecting consumer behavior much. Consumers are still projected to purchase larger cars with supercharged and turbocharged engines; however, high gas prices over an extended period might push manufacturers to build smaller engines that are both more powerful and more fuel efficient.

“As we see these little spikes and fluctuations, there doesn’t seem to be a big consumer reaction to it or that it’s going to be an ongoing problem,” Knapp said. “There is a trend toward smaller engines with forced induction, not necessarily in response to higher gas prices but in response to higher expectations of
fuel economy.”

The Bottom Line

“2019 SEMA Market Report” Fast Facts

In 2018, the automotive specialty-equipment market hit a new high of $44.6 billion in total parts sales. Sales are projected to increase to nearly $46 billion in 2019. Young consumers poured $7 billion into the industry in 2018. Non-enthusiasts make up 55% of the total market. Pickups once again make up the largest vehicle segment with a 27% market share. About 60% of specialty-equipment parts are sold in stores vs. 40% online.

Despite an unpredictable economy, the automotive specialty-equipment industry is still going strong, according to Cheng, and most experts don’t foresee a recession for at least another year. People are still cautiously optimistic. Just last May, the index for consumer sentiment topped 100 for only the fifth time since 2010, and the job market is at full employment.

“We are in the longest growth period since the last recession,” Cheng said. “There’s a lot of uncertainty and uncertainty causes panic, but panic doesn’t always lead to a recession. No one knows when the next one will happen; it won’t be as bad as in 2008 and 2009, but recessions are a natural part of our economic growth.”

Although the economy is still robust, Cheng cautions that one bad policy—for instance, ongoing trade wars—could derail the industry because it is so reliant on the global supply chain that any disruption could be detrimental. Tariffs are not helping either because fear has actually driven the price of steel up.

Looking ahead, Knapp projects continued but slowed growth for the industry, partially due to a slowed growth rate in new-vehicle sales.

“OEMs are still selling vehicles at historic levels; they’re just not growing those levels year after year,” Knapp said. “That impacts us because people start to accessorize as soon as they buy a new vehicle. With tariffs, the big question will be if the input prices of steel and aluminum push prices of our industry’s parts up. Will manufacturers internalize higher costs or push them directly out to the consumer?”

The “2019 SEMA Market Report” is free and a benefit of SEMA membership. Along with a host of other free industry reports, it can be found at www.sema.org/market-research. The SEMA market research team is available to help the industry directly. If you have any specific questions, contact SEMA Market Research Manager Matt Kennedy at mattk@sema.org or 909-978-6730.

Where Does the Data Come From?

For nearly 30 years, SEMA has produced its annual market report with the goal of helping membership understand the size and shape of the automotive specialty-equipment market, look for trends over time, and hone in on particular market subsectors. The data comes from a variety of sources. The main market-sizing estimates that comprise the bulk of the study are based on a large-scale consumer survey that is sent to a representative population of drivers across the United States. SEMA surveys more than 20,000 people to find out what kinds of vehicles they own, what they do with them, whether they buy specialty parts and accessories, where they buy them, how much they pay, etc. SEMA market research dives deep into forecasting in terms of expected future trends based on the “SEMA Future Trends Report.” The market research team also produces a monthly “SEMA Industry Indicators report,” which provides government information about how the economy is doing. A snapshot of the SEMA Show’s attendance and what sections are hot helps provide the industry’s pulse. Finally, SEMA highlights data from industry professionals about what they think about the state of the industry and whether they feel optimistic about the future.

SEMA News—October 2019

FROM THE HILL

By Colby Martin

Auto Hobby’s Holiday Celebrates One Decade

SEMA Membership Recognizes Collector Car Appreciation Day’s 10th Anniversary

On July 12, 2019, SEMA members joined with car clubs, businesses and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the 10th annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of events was held in the United States and Canada to commemorate this special day. The celebration was designated with SEMA-requested companion resolutions introduced in the U.S. Congress by the co-chairs of the SEMA-supported Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. U.S. Senate Resolution 271 was sponsored by Senate Co-Chairs Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT), while House Co-Chairs Rep. Bill Posey (R-FL) and Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA) sponsored U.S. House of Representatives Resolution 108.

The resolutions acknowledged “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and cities all over the United States and Canada followed Congress’s lead. The states of Louisiana, West Virginia and Wisconsin as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan adopted their own recognitions honoring the occasion.

More than 140 official events were held throughout the month of July to celebrate the classics of the past and the future. Those events included car club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. A summary and online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s website at www.semasan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance councils (HRIA).

n Taking place every July, the 47th Annual Iola Car Show in Iola, Wisconsin, coincided with the celebration of CCAD once again.

n Gary Brown (right) issued custom CCAD awards to winners at Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California.

n The Goodguys 22nd PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, coincided with the CCAD celebration.

n The Manitoba Association of Auto Clubs (MAAC) organized their annual CCAD celebration in conjunction with the Gimli Car Club during the Crusin’ Gimli Beach Show.

n Aftermarket Auto Parts/Mild to Wild Classics Inc. honored CCAD in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

n Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work for CCAD in Diamond Bar, California.

n Collector vehicles formed a display in El Paso, Texas, during the 4 Wheel Center’s Car, Truck & Jeep Cruise-In.

n Steele Rubber Products in Denver, North Carolina, hosted its annual CCAD edition of the After Hours Cruise-In.

n A cruise-in celebrating national CCAD took place at Daniels Performance Group in Smithfield, Virginia on Friday, July 12.

n Eckler’s Family of Automotive Parts Companies in Titusville, Florida, held its Fifth Annual Employee CCAD Car Show to celebrate the day.

n A number of classics showed up at Camaro Central/Firebird Central/Muscle Car Central for CCAD in Richmond, Kentucky.

n The City of Las Vegas CCAD presented an official proclamation to long-time CCAD promoter Skeeter Rader (shown displaying document).

n The Filling Station in Lebanon, Oregon, held a CCAD Cruise-In.

n CCAD festivities at Hershey, Pennsylvania’s Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum Inc. included antique car rides for visitors in AACA museum vehicles.

n The annual CCAD Cruise-in was held at the headquarters of Hemmings Motor News in Bennington, Vermont.

n Warn Industries Inc. invited current and former staff to get in the CCAD spirit for a Cars & Cook-Out in Clackamas, Oregon.

n Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted their annual CCAD event for employees and local enthusiasts.

n West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Auto Club proudly recognized the day at its event in Keyser. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (center) is shown displaying the 2019 CCAD Congressional Resolution.

n A national Collector Car Appreciation Grill-Out was hosted by Forge Speed LLC in Mooresville, North Carolina.

SEMA News—October 2019

FROM THE HILL

By Colby Martin

Auto Hobby’s Holiday Celebrates One Decade

SEMA Membership Recognizes Collector Car Appreciation Day’s 10th Anniversary

On July 12, 2019, SEMA members joined with car clubs, businesses and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the 10th annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of events was held in the United States and Canada to commemorate this special day. The celebration was designated with SEMA-requested companion resolutions introduced in the U.S. Congress by the co-chairs of the SEMA-supported Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. U.S. Senate Resolution 271 was sponsored by Senate Co-Chairs Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT), while House Co-Chairs Rep. Bill Posey (R-FL) and Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA) sponsored U.S. House of Representatives Resolution 108.

The resolutions acknowledged “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and cities all over the United States and Canada followed Congress’s lead. The states of Louisiana, West Virginia and Wisconsin as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan adopted their own recognitions honoring the occasion.

More than 140 official events were held throughout the month of July to celebrate the classics of the past and the future. Those events included car club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. A summary and online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s website at www.semasan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance councils (HRIA).

n Taking place every July, the 47th Annual Iola Car Show in Iola, Wisconsin, coincided with the celebration of CCAD once again.

n Gary Brown (right) issued custom CCAD awards to winners at Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California.

n The Goodguys 22nd PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, coincided with the CCAD celebration.

n The Manitoba Association of Auto Clubs (MAAC) organized their annual CCAD celebration in conjunction with the Gimli Car Club during the Crusin’ Gimli Beach Show.

n Aftermarket Auto Parts/Mild to Wild Classics Inc. honored CCAD in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

n Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work for CCAD in Diamond Bar, California.

n Collector vehicles formed a display in El Paso, Texas, during the 4 Wheel Center’s Car, Truck & Jeep Cruise-In.

n Steele Rubber Products in Denver, North Carolina, hosted its annual CCAD edition of the After Hours Cruise-In.

n A cruise-in celebrating national CCAD took place at Daniels Performance Group in Smithfield, Virginia on Friday, July 12.

n Eckler’s Family of Automotive Parts Companies in Titusville, Florida, held its Fifth Annual Employee CCAD Car Show to celebrate the day.

n A number of classics showed up at Camaro Central/Firebird Central/Muscle Car Central for CCAD in Richmond, Kentucky.

n The City of Las Vegas CCAD presented an official proclamation to long-time CCAD promoter Skeeter Rader (shown displaying document).

n The Filling Station in Lebanon, Oregon, held a CCAD Cruise-In.

n CCAD festivities at Hershey, Pennsylvania’s Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum Inc. included antique car rides for visitors in AACA museum vehicles.

n The annual CCAD Cruise-in was held at the headquarters of Hemmings Motor News in Bennington, Vermont.

n Warn Industries Inc. invited current and former staff to get in the CCAD spirit for a Cars & Cook-Out in Clackamas, Oregon.

n Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted their annual CCAD event for employees and local enthusiasts.

n West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Auto Club proudly recognized the day at its event in Keyser. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (center) is shown displaying the 2019 CCAD Congressional Resolution.

n A national Collector Car Appreciation Grill-Out was hosted by Forge Speed LLC in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

The final stop on this year’s NMCA tour—the 18th Annual NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance—will be held September 19–20, at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indiana.

American Muscle Abounds at NMCA Norwalk

The 18th Annual NMCA All-American Nationals presented by Whipple Superchargers was held August 22–25 at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. The series featured the Chevrolet Performance 50th Anniversary COPO Camaro Shootout presented by COPO Parts Direct and the Ford Performance Cobra Jet Showdown presented by Watson Racing. As always, the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle awaited drivers doing everything in their power to push to championships with only race remaining on this year’s tour.

VP Racing Fuels Xtreme Pro Mod: Don Walsh Jr. and his Corvette rocketed to a 3.70 to win over Craig Sullivan’s 3.85 in his Daytona.

Mickey Thompson Street Outlaw: Shawn Pevlor in the BES Racing Engines Mustang faced Rob Goss and his Challenger in the finals, where Goss grabbed the win with a 4.40, while Pevlor went into a high wheelie and brought it down to a 4.69.

Holley EFI Factory Super Cars: In the finals, Randy Eakins met Chris Holbrook in their Mustang Cobra Jets, where Eakins pulled off the win with a 7.89 over Holbrook’s close 7.90.

ARP Nitrous Pro Street: Tricia Musi met Randy Dolensek and his Mercury Cyclone Spoiler II in the final round of eliminations, where Musi picked up another win with a 4.38 after Dolensek turned on the red light.

Edelbrock Xtreme Street: Jessie Coulter and J.C. Beattie battled in the final round of eliminations. The drivers were close on the tree, but Coulter collected the win with a 4.79 in his Camaro over Beattie, who turned in a 4.98 in his COPO Camaro.

FST Carburetors NA 10.5: Leonard Long and his Mustang made it to the final round of eliminations, where he faced John Langer and his Firebird. Langer leaped off the line before Long and landed the holeshot win with a 7.95 over Long’s 7.93 on the tree as well.

Chevrolet Performance Stock presented by Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center: Jesse Wilson in his Camaro met Haley Burkhammer in the final round of eliminations. Wilson used a holeshot and a 10.21 in his Camaro to wrap up the win over Burkhammer, who was 10.16 in her Camaro.

Coan Engineering Stock/Super Stock Combo: Jeff Ross and his classic Barracuda rolled on to the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle with a 10.68 on a 10.65 dial over James Daniels, who was 8.44 on an 8.48 dial in his Dart.

Quick Fuel Technology Nostalgia Super Stock: Making it to the final round of eliminations were Mike Schaefer and his Dart and Jeff Hoblick and his Belvedere. Schaefer secured the win with a dead-on 9.00 on a 9.00 dial.

Detroit Truetrac Nostalgia Muscle Car: Chad Brewer and Noah Winters duked it out in their Novas in the final round of eliminations, where Brewer won with a 10.47 on a 10.50 index.

MagnaFuel Open Comp: David Rickey and Kevin White raced to the final round of eliminations, where Rickey won with a 10.71 on a 10.17 dial when White couldn’t complete his pass in his Nova.

NMCA Gear Vendors True Street: Justin May was the overall winner with an 8.05 average in a Firebird and Rob Meisch was the runner-up with an 8.32 average in a Mustang. Mike Niehaus nailed the 9-second win in a Mustang, Adam Kemmer picked up the 10-second win in a Nova, Bret Blankemeyer drove to the 11-second win in a GTO and Gary Alfrey picked up the 12-second win in a GTO. Rounding out the category were Anthony Jagar, who was the 13-second winner in a Mustang, Andy Ransford, who was the 14-second winner in a Mustang and Tracy Myers, who was the 15-second winner in a RAM. Racers who competed in NMCA Gear Vendors True Street, the 50th Anniversary COPO Camaro Shootout presented by COPO Parts Direct, and the Cobra Jet Showdown presented by Watson Racing were invited to take part in a Fastest Street Car True Street Bracket. After six rounds of competition, Scott Libersher won with a 9.09 on a 9.04 dial in his COPO Camaro over Daniel Sayers, who was 9.38 on a 9.35 dial in his COPO Camaro.

Dodge // Mopar HEMI Shootout: John Keyes was the overall winner with a 10.10 average, while Robert Vacek was the runner-up with a 10.19 average. Alan Scruggs was the 10-second winner, Robert Hess was the 11-second winner, Jeff Smith was the 12-second winner, John Miller was the 13-second winner, Joe Giordano was the 14-second winner and Jessica Rickey was the 15-second winner. Then, after the eight quickest drivers in the category came together for the Arrington Performance HEMI Quick 8 presented by Red Line Oil, Robert Hess hooked the win with a 10.48 after his opponent’s pass was declared void due to lack of proper safety equipment.

Chevrolet Performance Street Car Challenge: Jeff Brady was the overall winner with a 9.89 average in his Camaro, while Terry Faust was the runner-up with a 10.04 average in his Corvette. Scott Bolek picked up the 10-second win in his CTSV and Norm Jensen picked up the 11-second win in his Camaro.

Chevrolet Performance 50th Anniversary COPO Camaro Shootout presented by COPO Parts Direct: Aaron Allison arrived at the win with a 9.47 on a 9.43 dial over Todd Patterson, who was 9.21 on a 9.20 dial.

Ford Performance Cobra Jet Showdown presented by Watson Racing: Jack Zebich and Mike Fuller made it to the final round of eliminations. Both drivers broke out, but Zebich broke out by less and won with an 11.90 on an 11.91, while Fuller was 9.95 on a 9.97 dial.

Don Baskin Truck Sales Factory Appearing Stock Tire (FAST): Terry Pennington was the lead qualifier with a 10.13, and later won over Don Giannone. Joining them were Cor-A-Vent and Autorama Auto Sales Factory Stock racers, and Julie Pennington picked up an 11.02 to lead qualifying, and later won over Eric Simpson. Factory Stock Shootout winners include Ty Taccone, Donnie Brass, Victoria Waligoria and Dave Watt.

The final stop on this year’s NMCA tour—the 18th Annual NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance—will be held September 19–20, at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indiana.

Ed Federkeil will team up with sponsors E3 Spark Plugs and FireAde to run his Nickens Powered Dodge Avenger in one of the most competitive and diverse classes contested on the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series.

E3 Spark Plugs, FireAde Join Ed Federkeil to Promote Hoods for Heroes and The Ronnie Thames Foundation at U.S. Nationals

Competition Eliminator racer Ed Federkeil will compete at the Chevrolet Performance Parts NHRA U.S. Nationals Labor Day weekend in Indianapolis to raise awareness and interest for the Hoods for Heroes organization and The Ronnie Thames Foundation. Federkeil will team up with sponsors E3 Spark Plugs and FireAde to run his Nickens Powered Dodge Avenger in one of the most competitive and diverse classes contested on the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. The former firefighter is using his racing career and sponsor relationships to shine a light on the two charities. Federkeil’s race car will display the E3 Spark Plugs logo for the U.S. Nationals and remainder of the 2019 NHRA season, which will join season-long sponsor FireAde as a backer for the racer from Florida. Hoods for Heroes and The Ronnie Thames Foundation will also be prominently displayed on Federkeil’s race car.

The Mint 400 will add multiple classes of youth racing in 2020.

The Mint 400 Announces Youth Racing in 2020 “The Mini Mint 400”

The Mint 400 has announced it will add multiple classes of youth racing in 2020, including Polaris RZR 170, 250cc (RZR 170) and 570 classes. Now boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 16 can come battle at “The Great American Off-Road Race” for their chance to become a Mint 400 champion. The youth races will be held at the Primm Valley Start/Finish Line in Primm, Nevada, in front of a crowd of spectators, Friday, March 6. The Youth RZR 170 race at the 2015 UTV World Championship sparked a new interest in youth off-road racing. The following year, a 250cc class was added to not only increase youth participation but also include those teams who are adapting their youth SXS to compete at higher levels. In 2019, the UTV World Championship introduced the Youth Production 570 Class that showcased racers from ages 10 to 16. More information regarding racer and spectating details will be released in the coming months.

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

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Johnson Barrick	Sumner Hylton

Aeromotive Adds New Space to Its Headquarters

Aeromotive has added new space to its headquarters in Lenexa, Kansas. Until recently, the fuel-delivery company housed sales, tech and office personnel in one building, while engineering and R&D were in a neighboring building shared with the SEMA Data Co-Op. Starting September 1, Aeromotive will be the sole occupant of both buildings. The additional square footage allows Aeromotive to move all sales, tech, office and engineering personnel into one building, increasing ease of communication between departments. A newly designed “engineering bullpen” will serve as an incubator for the engineering team to collaborate on new designs and innovations. The second building will now be used for R&D and inventory. Additionally, Aeromotive has combined the sales and marketing teams into one department. The new sales and marketing Department is led by Johnson Barrick, who was previously Aeromotive’s sales director. The company also hired Sumner Hylton in a new marketing coordinator role.

Icahn Automotive to Separate Into Two Aftermarket Parts and Service Companies

Icahn Automotive Group LLC has announced that a process to separate the company into two independent aftermarket parts and service companies is underway. As separate companies, Parts and Service will be best positioned to focus on unique strategies, customers and business opportunities. The independent companies will be led by Chris Cox, CEO – parts, and Brian Kaner, CEO – service, who will report to Icahn Automotive’s board of directors and be supported by their own leadership teams, as well as a shared service division led by CFO Michael Nevin. The Parts company will include the retail and commercial lines of business of both Auto Plus and Pep Boys. The Service company will include the automotive repair and maintenance businesses of Pep Boys, AAMCO and Precision Tune Auto Care, as well as several regional service centers the company has acquired. As part of the separation plan, the parts and service businesses will each make adjustments to their store networks, and continue to streamline and decentralize the organizational structure, empowering local leadership to better serve their unique markets. The company expects a short transition period at the end of which the parts and service businesses will operate as separate companies.

Russell Stephens

Russell Stephens joins PerTronix Performance Brands

Russell Stephens, a 30-plus-year industry veteran, has joined the PerTronix Performance Brands family as vice president of sales and marketing. Stephens was previously president of a prominent Texas-based performance manufacturer where he held various roles in the organization for more than 30 years. Stephens has also served the industry as a volunteer with more than 25 years of service with SEMA, including three terms on the SEMA Board of Directors. The role of vice president of sales and marketing for Pertronix was previously held by Jim Hairston, who will move to a new role with the organization where he will work with business development and acquisitions.

McLeod Racing’s Paul Lee Acquires FTI Performance Converters

McLeod Racing’s president Paul Lee has acquired FTI Performance Converters. Through the acquisition, Lee will work closely with FTI Performance founders Greg and Phaedra Samuel. As a celebration for the new acquisition and partnership, Lee will have an FTI Performance and McLeod Racing-adorned nitro funny car livery this weekend at the NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. Also, JEGS Performance will hold a “Dealer of the Race” for both companies during this weekend. From August 29–September 4, customers will receive a 10% discount off both brands when purchased through JEGS.com. FTI Performance will continue to operate out of its Deland, Florida-based operations and warehouses. All FTI contact information remains the same.

Champion Oil will display a special continuation Ford Shelby GT350 at the 2019 SEMA Show in Booth #24629.

Champion Oil to Display Limited-Edition ’65 Shelby GT350 Mustang at 2019 SEMA Show

Champion Oil will display a special continuation Ford Shelby GT350 at the 2019 SEMA Show in Booth #24629. The limited-edition car will feature a 331-cid aluminum engine supplied by the Carroll Shelby Engine Co., which will be coupled to a TREMEC five-speed transmission with an authentic Shelby shifter. The suspensions are period correct, as are the brakes. Car bodies are fully reconditioned and built to ’65 specs to be finished with Ford’s Wimbledon White paint. Only 25 of these cars will be built. Each car gets a special Shelby serial number for inclusion in the official Shelby Registry and a dash bearing Carroll Shelby’s autograph. Engine options include: a 331-cid Shelby Performance aluminum engine, 425 hp as standard, a 364-cid Shelby High Performance aluminum engine as an option or an OEM 289-cid HI-PO as a third option. Other options include a 715 Holley or Webbers, a Tremec T-5 five-speed transmission, an original Top Loader four-speed, a T-10 Borg Warner or a C-4 transmission.

Lucas Oil, ProCharger Back “Horsepower Wars” Season 2 Teams

Power Automedia’s “Horsepower Wars” series has officially teamed up with Lucas Oil Products and ProCharger for the show’s second season. “Horsepower Wars” features a variety of challenges that focus on specific areas of aftermarket performance and offer unique obstacles, such as the $10K Drag Shootout, Pony Wars, LS vs. Coyote Shootout, Junkyard Challenge and more.

The new EveryRim.com website incorporates special notations aiding in the identification of easily confused wheels.

1-800EveryRim Unveils New Website for Industry Professionals

1-800EveryRim OEM Wheels has unveiled EveryRim.com as an original-equipment wheel tool for industry professionals. The site incorporates special notations aiding in the identification of easily confused wheels. Additionally, EveryRim.com features a 12-tier approach to grading new and reconditioned wheels down the scale to used and core inventory. This practice was first implemented on the phone, later within the company’s RimText system, (951-RimText) and is now utilized online. Wheel grading was designed to be useful when customers do not necessarily need a new-looking wheel for an older vehicle, the company states. Customers may click to request a picture of the exact factory original steel or alloy wheel from the company’s live inventory. In order to view the site’s wholesale pricing, shops will receive login credentials after registration.

Mast Motorsports Relocates Michigan Facility to Texas

Mast Motorsports recently finished a complete consolidation of its cylinder-head manufacturing facilities. According to the company, streamlining the manufacturing process promises to reduce lead times and improve product availability. In the past, Mast’s cylinder-head manufacturing process has been split between its Michigan and Texas facilities. By relocating Mast’s Michigan operations to the company’s headquarters in Nacogdoches, Texas, everything from product development to CNC machining to final assembly and order fulfillment will now be performed under one roof. To further reduce lead times and keep the production process moving around the clock, Mast Motorsports has also implemented a second shift. According to the company, by keeping shelves stocked with fresh inventory, Mast Motorsports can now offer same-day shipping for most cylinder heads. Furthermore, this increased production capacity will reduce turnaround time on Mast’s turnkey crate and custom street/race engines. 

Geoff Turk

Holley Adds Accomplished Racer Geoff Turk as Chief Operating Officer

Holley has announced that Geoff M. Turk has joined its executive management team as chief operating officer. Turk has extensive senior-level experience in operations, R&D and acquisitions with U. S. Steel, Caterpillar and General Motors. Turk also has a record of success on the race track with both the NHRA and NMCA drag racing series. He has become a perennial winner in the competitive Factory Super Cars class where he became the 2018 NMCA champion in his ’15 Dodge Challenger. He also became the first Stock Eliminator competitor to run a seven-second ET and the first member of the NMCA Holley EFI 7-Second Club. For 2019, Turk switched to a Ford Cobra Jet where he won NMCA Memphis—the first event he raced in with his new car. His program has gone on to contribute to Cobra Jet teams winning eight of the nine Factory Showdown/Factory Supercar races so far in 2019.

Neapco Honored Twice By Yamaha

Neapco announced it was the only supplier to receive two awards at the 2019 Yamaha Supplier Conference held in Newnan, Georgia. The “2018 Supplier Excellence Award” and the “2018 Supplier Delivery Improvement Award” were awarded to Neapco based on the outstanding product quality and service provided to Yamaha, according to the company. Neapco supplies rear halfshafts for Yamaha Golf-Cars, which have been named the top gas-powered golf car for three consecutive year by Golf Digest.

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.