By Fredy Ramirez

SEMA is gearing up for the 2019 Battle of the Builders (BOTB) competition, set to take place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and the list of competitors keeps growing longer as the Show approaches. SEMA eNews will highlight several vehicles each week leading up to the Show. This week's featured builds include Justin Brunner’s ‘70 Chevrolet Nova, Jesus Lopez’s ‘69 Chevrolet Camaro, Telly Violetto’s ‘73 Chevrolet Camaro and Jacob Griffin’s ’65 Mustang.

Jacob Griffin, ’65 Ford Mustang

Young builders all over the country are competing in the SEMA Young Guns Regional competition for a chance to win a trip to the 2019 SEMA Show and have their vehicle displayed. Jacob Griffin joined SEMA earlier this year at Formula Drift in Long Beach, California—one of the competition’s regional qualifier stops.

Griffin, a third-generation builder, also comes from a family of racers and hot-rod enthusiasts. Working alongside his dad at Griffin Design, his latest project is a Ford Mustang “Straight Razor” build. He’s taken a ’65 Mustang and body swapped it with a ’99 Mustang Cobra GT.

Justin Brunner’s ‘70 Chevrolet Nova	Jesus Lopez’s, ‘69 Chevrolet Camaro	Telly Violetto’s ‘73 Chevrolet Camaro

Justin Brunner, ’70 Chevrolet Nova
Scheduled to Appear: Mast Motorsports #23575

Justin Brunner enters this year’s BOTB with a ’70 Chevrolet Nova that is engineered to push out 820 hp. The LS2 engine features a Whipple kit and Ultimate headers, and is controlled by a 4L85E transmission. The build’s exterior features tucked bumpers, custom BASF paint and Nu Relics windows. The vehicle sits on Detroit Speed suspension and is fitted with Baer brakes and Forgeline wheels. The interior is a custom design that includes Dakota Digital gauges and Vintage Air A/C.

Jesus Lopez, ’69 Chevrolet Camaro
Scheduled to Appear: Jet Performance #23713

This ’69 Camaro will be Jesus Lopez’s first complete build on his own. He comes with plenty of experience, as he has been in the hot-rod industry since the age of 14. The build’s carbon-fiber engine bay is filled with a Mercury SB4 7.0, 750hp engine controlled by a Tremec six-speed T56 transmission. Baer brakes are tasked with bringing the machine to a stop. The custom body rides on a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis with HRE wheels. The interior is also custom and includes continental ICD gauges and flush-mount glass.

Telly Violetto, ’73 Chevrolet Camaro
Scheduled to Appear: HRIA #23393

Telly Violetto enters this year’s BOTB with a ’73 Camaro. The profile of the vehicle includes custom flares, a tucked-in bumper, a one-off hood, and in-house taillights. The paint features a mix of Porsche Riviera Blue and Mexico Blue with ice-blue pearl. The build is powered by a supercharged engine that pushes out 700 hp, and it sits on Ridetech suspension with Forgline wheels fitted with Wilwood brakes.

For more information, visit the SEMA Battle of the Builders website.  

By Fredy Ramirez

SEMA is gearing up for the 2019 Battle of the Builders (BOTB) competition, set to take place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and the list of competitors keeps growing longer as the Show approaches. SEMA eNews will highlight several vehicles each week leading up to the Show. This week's featured builds include Justin Brunner’s ‘70 Chevrolet Nova, Jesus Lopez’s ‘69 Chevrolet Camaro, Telly Violetto’s ‘73 Chevrolet Camaro and Jacob Griffin’s ’65 Mustang.

Jacob Griffin, ’65 Ford Mustang

Young builders all over the country are competing in the SEMA Young Guns Regional competition for a chance to win a trip to the 2019 SEMA Show and have their vehicle displayed. Jacob Griffin joined SEMA earlier this year at Formula Drift in Long Beach, California—one of the competition’s regional qualifier stops.

Griffin, a third-generation builder, also comes from a family of racers and hot-rod enthusiasts. Working alongside his dad at Griffin Design, his latest project is a Ford Mustang “Straight Razor” build. He’s taken a ’65 Mustang and body swapped it with a ’99 Mustang Cobra GT.

Justin Brunner’s ‘70 Chevrolet Nova	Jesus Lopez’s, ‘69 Chevrolet Camaro	Telly Violetto’s ‘73 Chevrolet Camaro

Justin Brunner, ’70 Chevrolet Nova
Scheduled to Appear: Mast Motorsports #23575

Justin Brunner enters this year’s BOTB with a ’70 Chevrolet Nova that is engineered to push out 820 hp. The LS2 engine features a Whipple kit and Ultimate headers, and is controlled by a 4L85E transmission. The build’s exterior features tucked bumpers, custom BASF paint and Nu Relics windows. The vehicle sits on Detroit Speed suspension and is fitted with Baer brakes and Forgeline wheels. The interior is a custom design that includes Dakota Digital gauges and Vintage Air A/C.

Jesus Lopez, ’69 Chevrolet Camaro
Scheduled to Appear: Jet Performance #23713

This ’69 Camaro will be Jesus Lopez’s first complete build on his own. He comes with plenty of experience, as he has been in the hot-rod industry since the age of 14. The build’s carbon-fiber engine bay is filled with a Mercury SB4 7.0, 750hp engine controlled by a Tremec six-speed T56 transmission. Baer brakes are tasked with bringing the machine to a stop. The custom body rides on a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis with HRE wheels. The interior is also custom and includes continental ICD gauges and flush-mount glass.

Telly Violetto, ’73 Chevrolet Camaro
Scheduled to Appear: HRIA #23393

Telly Violetto enters this year’s BOTB with a ’73 Camaro. The profile of the vehicle includes custom flares, a tucked-in bumper, a one-off hood, and in-house taillights. The paint features a mix of Porsche Riviera Blue and Mexico Blue with ice-blue pearl. The build is powered by a supercharged engine that pushes out 700 hp, and it sits on Ridetech suspension with Forgline wheels fitted with Wilwood brakes.

For more information, visit the SEMA Battle of the Builders website.  

By Fredy Ramirez

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is “data central” for hundreds of specialty parts brands, representing millions of part numbers and tens of millions of vehicle applications. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository, complete with a comprehensive set of online data-management tools.

The product releases below are from SEMA members who are also part of the SDC at the the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

SDC members are invited to submit new-product press releases for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Roof Rack System From CURT CURT introduces its roof rack crossbars and roof rack kayak holders. These crossbars are engineered with a universal design to fit any roof base rails up 50 in. wide. The roof rack crossbars are constructed from lightweight, rust-free aluminum and have a weight capacity of 150 lbs. The roof rack kayak holder arms can be rotated open or closed to accommodate kayaks and paddleboards of all sizes. The kayak racks are made from highly corrosion-resistant aluminum. 877-287-8634 www.curtmfg.com PN: 18118 PN: 18320
ORACLE Lighting Vector ProSeries Grille ORACLE Lighting announces the release of the ’19–’20 ORACLE Vector ProSeries Jeep Wrangler JL Grille. The grille design includes integrated LED lights: DOT-compliant headlights and high-beams, sequentially-firing enhanced Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), and quad driving lights. Applications are also available for the ’07–’18 Wrangler JK and ’20 Gladiator JT. 800-407-5776 www.oraclelights.com PN 5837-PROa
GForce Performance Engineering Renegade and Outlaw CV Half-Shaft Axle GForce Performance Engineering introduces Renegade and Outlaw CV half-shaft axle upgrades. The axles are designed with aircraft-grade certified alloys. Both axles are engineered for the strip, featuring anti-wheelhop technology, direct bolt-in fit and finish, powder-coating and a black e-coat finish on the outer stubs that protects against harsh conditions without impeding spline engagement. 316-260-8433 www.GForce1320.com PN: BRZ10101A PN: BRZ10101A

By Fredy Ramirez

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is “data central” for hundreds of specialty parts brands, representing millions of part numbers and tens of millions of vehicle applications. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository, complete with a comprehensive set of online data-management tools.

The product releases below are from SEMA members who are also part of the SDC at the the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

SDC members are invited to submit new-product press releases for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Roof Rack System From CURT CURT introduces its roof rack crossbars and roof rack kayak holders. These crossbars are engineered with a universal design to fit any roof base rails up 50 in. wide. The roof rack crossbars are constructed from lightweight, rust-free aluminum and have a weight capacity of 150 lbs. The roof rack kayak holder arms can be rotated open or closed to accommodate kayaks and paddleboards of all sizes. The kayak racks are made from highly corrosion-resistant aluminum. 877-287-8634 www.curtmfg.com PN: 18118 PN: 18320
ORACLE Lighting Vector ProSeries Grille ORACLE Lighting announces the release of the ’19–’20 ORACLE Vector ProSeries Jeep Wrangler JL Grille. The grille design includes integrated LED lights: DOT-compliant headlights and high-beams, sequentially-firing enhanced Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), and quad driving lights. Applications are also available for the ’07–’18 Wrangler JK and ’20 Gladiator JT. 800-407-5776 www.oraclelights.com PN 5837-PROa
GForce Performance Engineering Renegade and Outlaw CV Half-Shaft Axle GForce Performance Engineering introduces Renegade and Outlaw CV half-shaft axle upgrades. The axles are designed with aircraft-grade certified alloys. Both axles are engineered for the strip, featuring anti-wheelhop technology, direct bolt-in fit and finish, powder-coating and a black e-coat finish on the outer stubs that protects against harsh conditions without impeding spline engagement. 316-260-8433 www.GForce1320.com PN: BRZ10101A PN: BRZ10101A

By SEMA Editors

There are 31 hotels in the SEMA Show block that offer free shuttle service to and from the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SEMA Showgoers who are interested in staying at hotels with free shuttle service to and from the Las Vegas Convention Center are encouraged to make their reservations while rooms are still available.

With a quick look on the www.SEMAShow.com/travel homepage, Showgoers can see a list of hotels available along with the star rating, rate per night and distance from the Las Vegas Convention Center. Here are 31 hotels in the SEMA Show block with free shuttle service:

• Aria
• Bally’s
• Bellagio
• Caesars Palace
• Circus Circus
• Elara
• Encore at Wynn Las Vegas
• Excalibur Hotel
• Flamingo Las Vegas
• Golden Nugget Las Vegas
• Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
• Harrah’s Casino Hotel Las Vegas
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club at the Flamingo
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip
• Luxor Las Vegas
• MGM Grand
• Mirage Hotel
• New York – New York Hotel and Casino
• Paris Las Vegas
• Park MGM
• Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
• SLS Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
• Stratosphere
• The Cromwell
• The Signature at MGM Grand
• Treasure Island
• Tropicana Las Vegas
• Trump Hotel Las Vegas
• Vdara Hotel & Spa at CityCenter
• Westin Las Vegas Hotel and Spa
• Wynn Las Vegas

Showgoers booking through the SEMA Show housing partner receive guaranteed low rates on a wide range of hotel properties at locations on and off the Las Vegas Strip.

When making your hotel reservations through the SEMA Show Travel & Lodging page, you are receiving the most affordable and convenient hotel options through our partnership with onPeak, the only official hotel provider for the 2019 SEMA Show. All negotiated rates provided by onPeak include resort fees and will allow you to change or cancel your reservation without any financial penalties.

More information about the SEMA Show, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, is available on www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Editors

There are 31 hotels in the SEMA Show block that offer free shuttle service to and from the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SEMA Showgoers who are interested in staying at hotels with free shuttle service to and from the Las Vegas Convention Center are encouraged to make their reservations while rooms are still available.

With a quick look on the www.SEMAShow.com/travel homepage, Showgoers can see a list of hotels available along with the star rating, rate per night and distance from the Las Vegas Convention Center. Here are 31 hotels in the SEMA Show block with free shuttle service:

• Aria
• Bally’s
• Bellagio
• Caesars Palace
• Circus Circus
• Elara
• Encore at Wynn Las Vegas
• Excalibur Hotel
• Flamingo Las Vegas
• Golden Nugget Las Vegas
• Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
• Harrah’s Casino Hotel Las Vegas
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club at the Flamingo
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip
• Luxor Las Vegas
• MGM Grand
• Mirage Hotel
• New York – New York Hotel and Casino
• Paris Las Vegas
• Park MGM
• Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
• SLS Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
• Stratosphere
• The Cromwell
• The Signature at MGM Grand
• Treasure Island
• Tropicana Las Vegas
• Trump Hotel Las Vegas
• Vdara Hotel & Spa at CityCenter
• Westin Las Vegas Hotel and Spa
• Wynn Las Vegas

Showgoers booking through the SEMA Show housing partner receive guaranteed low rates on a wide range of hotel properties at locations on and off the Las Vegas Strip.

When making your hotel reservations through the SEMA Show Travel & Lodging page, you are receiving the most affordable and convenient hotel options through our partnership with onPeak, the only official hotel provider for the 2019 SEMA Show. All negotiated rates provided by onPeak include resort fees and will allow you to change or cancel your reservation without any financial penalties.

More information about the SEMA Show, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, is available on www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Editors

Placing a familiar face or popular vehicle in your booth provides buyers with an identifiable connection of your target market, helping to make a link between you and the customer.

Have a driver, industry icon, TV personality or famous vehicle making an appearance in your SEMA Show booth? Submit the Celebrity Appearance Notification form by September 3 to have the information included in the SEMA Show’s printed material. Your special attraction, along with booth number and company name, will be promoted in the Official 2019 SEMA Show Directory and the SEMA Show Daily.

Placing a familiar face or popular vehicle in your booth provides buyers with an identifiable connection of your target market, helping to make a link between you and the customer.

Exhibitors can learn how to get the most out of their 2019 SEMA Show, as well as additional options to reach buyers, by contacting an account rep at sales@sema.org or 909-396-0289.

Information about the 2019 SEMA Show is available on www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Editors

Placing a familiar face or popular vehicle in your booth provides buyers with an identifiable connection of your target market, helping to make a link between you and the customer.

Have a driver, industry icon, TV personality or famous vehicle making an appearance in your SEMA Show booth? Submit the Celebrity Appearance Notification form by September 3 to have the information included in the SEMA Show’s printed material. Your special attraction, along with booth number and company name, will be promoted in the Official 2019 SEMA Show Directory and the SEMA Show Daily.

Placing a familiar face or popular vehicle in your booth provides buyers with an identifiable connection of your target market, helping to make a link between you and the customer.

Exhibitors can learn how to get the most out of their 2019 SEMA Show, as well as additional options to reach buyers, by contacting an account rep at sales@sema.org or 909-396-0289.

Information about the 2019 SEMA Show is available on www.SEMAShow.com.

By Kristopher Porter

The Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is looking for awesome truck, SUV and off-road builds to display at the 2019 SEMA Show as a part of its feature vehicle program.

The Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is looking for awesome truck, SUV and off-road builds to display at the 2019 SEMA Show as a part of its feature vehicle program. Applications are now open; the council is looking for submissions in areas such as lifted vehicles, diesel, Jeep, SUV, off-road, UTV and street/lowered vehicles.

The SEMA Show is the best-attended trade event in the automotive aftermarket industry, attracting more than 60,000 qualified buyers. Having a feature vehicle at the Show will bring invaluable exposure for the builders and manufacturers whose parts are featured on each vehicle.

Six vehicles will be selected as a part of the 2019 TORA feature vehicle program. At least one vehicle will be displayed in the TORA booth in the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Upper South Hall, while the other five will be featured outside of the LVCC South Hall, where thousands of people spend time every day of the Show. If selected, the cost of these spots is $2,000; applicants must also make a donation of $500 to SEMA Cares charities on top of the premium placement fee. Payment must be made by September 30, at 5:00 p.m. (PDT), otherwise your spot will be forfeited.

Applications are due September 3, by 5:00 p.m. (PDT). Get your name out there as a builder; submit your application today!

By Kristopher Porter

The Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is looking for awesome truck, SUV and off-road builds to display at the 2019 SEMA Show as a part of its feature vehicle program.

The Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is looking for awesome truck, SUV and off-road builds to display at the 2019 SEMA Show as a part of its feature vehicle program. Applications are now open; the council is looking for submissions in areas such as lifted vehicles, diesel, Jeep, SUV, off-road, UTV and street/lowered vehicles.

The SEMA Show is the best-attended trade event in the automotive aftermarket industry, attracting more than 60,000 qualified buyers. Having a feature vehicle at the Show will bring invaluable exposure for the builders and manufacturers whose parts are featured on each vehicle.

Six vehicles will be selected as a part of the 2019 TORA feature vehicle program. At least one vehicle will be displayed in the TORA booth in the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Upper South Hall, while the other five will be featured outside of the LVCC South Hall, where thousands of people spend time every day of the Show. If selected, the cost of these spots is $2,000; applicants must also make a donation of $500 to SEMA Cares charities on top of the premium placement fee. Payment must be made by September 30, at 5:00 p.m. (PDT), otherwise your spot will be forfeited.

Applications are due September 3, by 5:00 p.m. (PDT). Get your name out there as a builder; submit your application today!