Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:12

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

President Trump signed the “Small Business Innovation Protection Act of 2017” (S. 791) into law. Senator Gary Peters’ (D-MI) legislation directs the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce for Intellectual Property and the Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to enter into a partnership agreement to develop an intellectual property (IP) protection training program and educational materials. The law also requires the training program to educate small businesses on domestic and international IP protection when developing business plans and growth strategies. Additionally, the bill directs the agencies to use existing materials to develop the training program, which may be provided either online or at physical locations, including at an SBA Small Business Development Center and the USPTO headquarters and regional offices.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:12

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

President Trump signed the “Small Business Innovation Protection Act of 2017” (S. 791) into law. Senator Gary Peters’ (D-MI) legislation directs the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce for Intellectual Property and the Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to enter into a partnership agreement to develop an intellectual property (IP) protection training program and educational materials. The law also requires the training program to educate small businesses on domestic and international IP protection when developing business plans and growth strategies. Additionally, the bill directs the agencies to use existing materials to develop the training program, which may be provided either online or at physical locations, including at an SBA Small Business Development Center and the USPTO headquarters and regional offices.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:12

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

President Trump signed the “Small Business Innovation Protection Act of 2017” (S. 791) into law. Senator Gary Peters’ (D-MI) legislation directs the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce for Intellectual Property and the Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to enter into a partnership agreement to develop an intellectual property (IP) protection training program and educational materials. The law also requires the training program to educate small businesses on domestic and international IP protection when developing business plans and growth strategies. Additionally, the bill directs the agencies to use existing materials to develop the training program, which may be provided either online or at physical locations, including at an SBA Small Business Development Center and the USPTO headquarters and regional offices.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:06

By SEMA Editors

SCRS

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit will be held Thursday, November 1, at the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Summit will feature three sessions, each designed to host discussion between companies and individuals who are able to highlight emerging trends that influence vehicle repairability and collision industry preparation.

The second session, entitled “The Evolution of OEM Networks and Expectations,” will take place November 1, from 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

In this 90-minute panel discussion, representatives from General Motors, Mercedes-Benz USA, Nissan Group of America and Volvo Cars USA will share details of their distinct program structures and elaborate on how the expectations have evolved to their present state.

As vehicle architecture and technology advance, so do the expectations of those performing repairs. Specialization and commitment to repair procedure adherence become increasingly more paramount, and many automakers have shifted their models of creating OEM collision-repair networks to ensure that consumers have vetted options if collision-repair services become necessary.

The session will be moderated by Aaron Clark, vice president, technical compliance for Assured Performance Network, and David Gruskos, president, Reliable Automotive Equipment Inc.

Panelists will include:

  • John Eck, General Motors Co.
    Collision Manager, Customer Care & Aftersales    
  • Kenneth Park, Volvo Cars USA
    Certified Collision Program Manager
  • Ben Cid, Mercedes-Benz USA
    Collision Business Manager
  • Mark Zoba, Nissan Group of America
    Manager, Collision Network Growth & Strategy

There has never been a better time to gain an understanding of what OEMs expect of the collision-repair community. To secure your spot to learn directly from General Motors, Volvo Cars USA, Mercedes-Benz USA and Nissan Group of America about their certified networks, visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The final afternoon session, to be held from 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., will explore “The Future Impact of Telematics, Technology, Transportation and the Collision Industry.” For this two-hour session, SCRS welcomes back TEDx speaker and author of “The Zero Dollar Car” John Ellis of Ellis & Associates. Ellis is an expert in big data and how it will change the business models of the world’s leading sectors. For this session, SCRS has brought together thought leaders with OEM, technology, claims and fleet backgrounds to explore how the future of automotive technology inside the vehicle will change external interactions in the event of a loss. Whether communicating with individuals or associated organizations, there is a great deal of development in the area where technology interfaces and telematics data will impact collision-repair business models.

Panelists will include:

  • Andreas Hecht, CCC Information Services
    SVP, general manager OEM   
  • Derik Reiser, Enterprise Holdings Inc.
    AVP, technology innovation
  • Charlene Wehman, Subaru of America Inc.
    cross-car line planning manager – telematics
  • James Levendusky, Verisk
    vice president, telematics

The panelists will share direct experience in their world of connectivity, and help the repair audience consider and understand the work being done to integrate point-of-impact data, telematics and connectivity between respective parties. Most importantly, attendees will gain visibility into what that connectivity means to repairers, the work they do on the shop floor and their relationship to the consumer and others in the process.

Register for all three sessions of the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The other session included in the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit includes:

9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
“The Rules—and Challenges—of Structural Repair on Modern Architecture”

In addition, registration is open for the SCRS’ IDEAS Collide Showcase, Friday, November 2, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Register now for the IDEAS Collide Showcase, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

“The IDEAS Collide Showcase was really to take an approach similar to TED Talks, but with the SCRS twist of being specific to the collision-repair industry,” shares SCRS Vice Chairman Brett Bailey. “We introduced it by calling for speakers that were willing to explore big ideas worthy of consideration, but capable of delivering those ideas in a condensed timeframe.”

The two-hour program will tackle topics that either highlight disruption or provide solution in the collision-repair industry. Ten speakers will deliver fast-paced presentations designed to stimulate thought, innovation and resolution of business challenges with brash, outspoken and thought-provoking concepts. The lineup includes:

  • Jeff Hendler     
    owner, JD Hendler/Associates
  • M. Scott Ulnick
    managing principal, Ducker Worldwide
  • Dan Langford
    innovation director, Nevada Center for Advanced Mobility
    Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development
  • Pete Tagliapietra
    president, NuGen IT
  • Kevin Dunn
    CEO, Decisely
  • Amir Hever
    CEO, UVeye
  • John Shoemaker
    business development manager, BASF Automotive Refinish North America
  • Matthew Doude
    associate director, Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems
    Mississippi State University
  • Jason Verlen
    SVP product management, strategy and marketing, CCC Information Services
  • John Ellis
    principal, Ellis & Associates
    Author, The Zero Dollar Car

The IDEAS Collide Showcase will be included in the Full Series Pass option available at www.scrs.com/rde, or as a stand-alone session that can be selected online.

For more information about SCRS, or to join as a member, visit www.scrs.com, call 877-841-0660 or email info@scrs.com.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:06

By SEMA Editors

SCRS

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit will be held Thursday, November 1, at the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Summit will feature three sessions, each designed to host discussion between companies and individuals who are able to highlight emerging trends that influence vehicle repairability and collision industry preparation.

The second session, entitled “The Evolution of OEM Networks and Expectations,” will take place November 1, from 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

In this 90-minute panel discussion, representatives from General Motors, Mercedes-Benz USA, Nissan Group of America and Volvo Cars USA will share details of their distinct program structures and elaborate on how the expectations have evolved to their present state.

As vehicle architecture and technology advance, so do the expectations of those performing repairs. Specialization and commitment to repair procedure adherence become increasingly more paramount, and many automakers have shifted their models of creating OEM collision-repair networks to ensure that consumers have vetted options if collision-repair services become necessary.

The session will be moderated by Aaron Clark, vice president, technical compliance for Assured Performance Network, and David Gruskos, president, Reliable Automotive Equipment Inc.

Panelists will include:

  • John Eck, General Motors Co.
    Collision Manager, Customer Care & Aftersales    
  • Kenneth Park, Volvo Cars USA
    Certified Collision Program Manager
  • Ben Cid, Mercedes-Benz USA
    Collision Business Manager
  • Mark Zoba, Nissan Group of America
    Manager, Collision Network Growth & Strategy

There has never been a better time to gain an understanding of what OEMs expect of the collision-repair community. To secure your spot to learn directly from General Motors, Volvo Cars USA, Mercedes-Benz USA and Nissan Group of America about their certified networks, visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The final afternoon session, to be held from 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., will explore “The Future Impact of Telematics, Technology, Transportation and the Collision Industry.” For this two-hour session, SCRS welcomes back TEDx speaker and author of “The Zero Dollar Car” John Ellis of Ellis & Associates. Ellis is an expert in big data and how it will change the business models of the world’s leading sectors. For this session, SCRS has brought together thought leaders with OEM, technology, claims and fleet backgrounds to explore how the future of automotive technology inside the vehicle will change external interactions in the event of a loss. Whether communicating with individuals or associated organizations, there is a great deal of development in the area where technology interfaces and telematics data will impact collision-repair business models.

Panelists will include:

  • Andreas Hecht, CCC Information Services
    SVP, general manager OEM   
  • Derik Reiser, Enterprise Holdings Inc.
    AVP, technology innovation
  • Charlene Wehman, Subaru of America Inc.
    cross-car line planning manager – telematics
  • James Levendusky, Verisk
    vice president, telematics

The panelists will share direct experience in their world of connectivity, and help the repair audience consider and understand the work being done to integrate point-of-impact data, telematics and connectivity between respective parties. Most importantly, attendees will gain visibility into what that connectivity means to repairers, the work they do on the shop floor and their relationship to the consumer and others in the process.

Register for all three sessions of the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The other session included in the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit includes:

9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
“The Rules—and Challenges—of Structural Repair on Modern Architecture”

In addition, registration is open for the SCRS’ IDEAS Collide Showcase, Friday, November 2, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Register now for the IDEAS Collide Showcase, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

“The IDEAS Collide Showcase was really to take an approach similar to TED Talks, but with the SCRS twist of being specific to the collision-repair industry,” shares SCRS Vice Chairman Brett Bailey. “We introduced it by calling for speakers that were willing to explore big ideas worthy of consideration, but capable of delivering those ideas in a condensed timeframe.”

The two-hour program will tackle topics that either highlight disruption or provide solution in the collision-repair industry. Ten speakers will deliver fast-paced presentations designed to stimulate thought, innovation and resolution of business challenges with brash, outspoken and thought-provoking concepts. The lineup includes:

  • Jeff Hendler     
    owner, JD Hendler/Associates
  • M. Scott Ulnick
    managing principal, Ducker Worldwide
  • Dan Langford
    innovation director, Nevada Center for Advanced Mobility
    Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development
  • Pete Tagliapietra
    president, NuGen IT
  • Kevin Dunn
    CEO, Decisely
  • Amir Hever
    CEO, UVeye
  • John Shoemaker
    business development manager, BASF Automotive Refinish North America
  • Matthew Doude
    associate director, Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems
    Mississippi State University
  • Jason Verlen
    SVP product management, strategy and marketing, CCC Information Services
  • John Ellis
    principal, Ellis & Associates
    Author, The Zero Dollar Car

The IDEAS Collide Showcase will be included in the Full Series Pass option available at www.scrs.com/rde, or as a stand-alone session that can be selected online.

For more information about SCRS, or to join as a member, visit www.scrs.com, call 877-841-0660 or email info@scrs.com.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:06

By SEMA Editors

SCRS

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit will be held Thursday, November 1, at the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Summit will feature three sessions, each designed to host discussion between companies and individuals who are able to highlight emerging trends that influence vehicle repairability and collision industry preparation.

The second session, entitled “The Evolution of OEM Networks and Expectations,” will take place November 1, from 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

In this 90-minute panel discussion, representatives from General Motors, Mercedes-Benz USA, Nissan Group of America and Volvo Cars USA will share details of their distinct program structures and elaborate on how the expectations have evolved to their present state.

As vehicle architecture and technology advance, so do the expectations of those performing repairs. Specialization and commitment to repair procedure adherence become increasingly more paramount, and many automakers have shifted their models of creating OEM collision-repair networks to ensure that consumers have vetted options if collision-repair services become necessary.

The session will be moderated by Aaron Clark, vice president, technical compliance for Assured Performance Network, and David Gruskos, president, Reliable Automotive Equipment Inc.

Panelists will include:

  • John Eck, General Motors Co.
    Collision Manager, Customer Care & Aftersales    
  • Kenneth Park, Volvo Cars USA
    Certified Collision Program Manager
  • Ben Cid, Mercedes-Benz USA
    Collision Business Manager
  • Mark Zoba, Nissan Group of America
    Manager, Collision Network Growth & Strategy

There has never been a better time to gain an understanding of what OEMs expect of the collision-repair community. To secure your spot to learn directly from General Motors, Volvo Cars USA, Mercedes-Benz USA and Nissan Group of America about their certified networks, visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The final afternoon session, to be held from 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., will explore “The Future Impact of Telematics, Technology, Transportation and the Collision Industry.” For this two-hour session, SCRS welcomes back TEDx speaker and author of “The Zero Dollar Car” John Ellis of Ellis & Associates. Ellis is an expert in big data and how it will change the business models of the world’s leading sectors. For this session, SCRS has brought together thought leaders with OEM, technology, claims and fleet backgrounds to explore how the future of automotive technology inside the vehicle will change external interactions in the event of a loss. Whether communicating with individuals or associated organizations, there is a great deal of development in the area where technology interfaces and telematics data will impact collision-repair business models.

Panelists will include:

  • Andreas Hecht, CCC Information Services
    SVP, general manager OEM   
  • Derik Reiser, Enterprise Holdings Inc.
    AVP, technology innovation
  • Charlene Wehman, Subaru of America Inc.
    cross-car line planning manager – telematics
  • James Levendusky, Verisk
    vice president, telematics

The panelists will share direct experience in their world of connectivity, and help the repair audience consider and understand the work being done to integrate point-of-impact data, telematics and connectivity between respective parties. Most importantly, attendees will gain visibility into what that connectivity means to repairers, the work they do on the shop floor and their relationship to the consumer and others in the process.

Register for all three sessions of the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The other session included in the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit includes:

9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
“The Rules—and Challenges—of Structural Repair on Modern Architecture”

In addition, registration is open for the SCRS’ IDEAS Collide Showcase, Friday, November 2, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Register now for the IDEAS Collide Showcase, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

“The IDEAS Collide Showcase was really to take an approach similar to TED Talks, but with the SCRS twist of being specific to the collision-repair industry,” shares SCRS Vice Chairman Brett Bailey. “We introduced it by calling for speakers that were willing to explore big ideas worthy of consideration, but capable of delivering those ideas in a condensed timeframe.”

The two-hour program will tackle topics that either highlight disruption or provide solution in the collision-repair industry. Ten speakers will deliver fast-paced presentations designed to stimulate thought, innovation and resolution of business challenges with brash, outspoken and thought-provoking concepts. The lineup includes:

  • Jeff Hendler     
    owner, JD Hendler/Associates
  • M. Scott Ulnick
    managing principal, Ducker Worldwide
  • Dan Langford
    innovation director, Nevada Center for Advanced Mobility
    Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development
  • Pete Tagliapietra
    president, NuGen IT
  • Kevin Dunn
    CEO, Decisely
  • Amir Hever
    CEO, UVeye
  • John Shoemaker
    business development manager, BASF Automotive Refinish North America
  • Matthew Doude
    associate director, Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems
    Mississippi State University
  • Jason Verlen
    SVP product management, strategy and marketing, CCC Information Services
  • John Ellis
    principal, Ellis & Associates
    Author, The Zero Dollar Car

The IDEAS Collide Showcase will be included in the Full Series Pass option available at www.scrs.com/rde, or as a stand-alone session that can be selected online.

For more information about SCRS, or to join as a member, visit www.scrs.com, call 877-841-0660 or email info@scrs.com.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 14:06

By SEMA Editors

SCRS

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit will be held Thursday, November 1, at the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Summit will feature three sessions, each designed to host discussion between companies and individuals who are able to highlight emerging trends that influence vehicle repairability and collision industry preparation.

The second session, entitled “The Evolution of OEM Networks and Expectations,” will take place November 1, from 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

In this 90-minute panel discussion, representatives from General Motors, Mercedes-Benz USA, Nissan Group of America and Volvo Cars USA will share details of their distinct program structures and elaborate on how the expectations have evolved to their present state.

As vehicle architecture and technology advance, so do the expectations of those performing repairs. Specialization and commitment to repair procedure adherence become increasingly more paramount, and many automakers have shifted their models of creating OEM collision-repair networks to ensure that consumers have vetted options if collision-repair services become necessary.

The session will be moderated by Aaron Clark, vice president, technical compliance for Assured Performance Network, and David Gruskos, president, Reliable Automotive Equipment Inc.

Panelists will include:

  • John Eck, General Motors Co.
    Collision Manager, Customer Care & Aftersales    
  • Kenneth Park, Volvo Cars USA
    Certified Collision Program Manager
  • Ben Cid, Mercedes-Benz USA
    Collision Business Manager
  • Mark Zoba, Nissan Group of America
    Manager, Collision Network Growth & Strategy

There has never been a better time to gain an understanding of what OEMs expect of the collision-repair community. To secure your spot to learn directly from General Motors, Volvo Cars USA, Mercedes-Benz USA and Nissan Group of America about their certified networks, visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The final afternoon session, to be held from 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., will explore “The Future Impact of Telematics, Technology, Transportation and the Collision Industry.” For this two-hour session, SCRS welcomes back TEDx speaker and author of “The Zero Dollar Car” John Ellis of Ellis & Associates. Ellis is an expert in big data and how it will change the business models of the world’s leading sectors. For this session, SCRS has brought together thought leaders with OEM, technology, claims and fleet backgrounds to explore how the future of automotive technology inside the vehicle will change external interactions in the event of a loss. Whether communicating with individuals or associated organizations, there is a great deal of development in the area where technology interfaces and telematics data will impact collision-repair business models.

Panelists will include:

  • Andreas Hecht, CCC Information Services
    SVP, general manager OEM   
  • Derik Reiser, Enterprise Holdings Inc.
    AVP, technology innovation
  • Charlene Wehman, Subaru of America Inc.
    cross-car line planning manager – telematics
  • James Levendusky, Verisk
    vice president, telematics

The panelists will share direct experience in their world of connectivity, and help the repair audience consider and understand the work being done to integrate point-of-impact data, telematics and connectivity between respective parties. Most importantly, attendees will gain visibility into what that connectivity means to repairers, the work they do on the shop floor and their relationship to the consumer and others in the process.

Register for all three sessions of the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

The other session included in the 2018 OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit includes:

9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
“The Rules—and Challenges—of Structural Repair on Modern Architecture”

In addition, registration is open for the SCRS’ IDEAS Collide Showcase, Friday, November 2, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Register now for the IDEAS Collide Showcase, or visit www.scrs.com/rde.

“The IDEAS Collide Showcase was really to take an approach similar to TED Talks, but with the SCRS twist of being specific to the collision-repair industry,” shares SCRS Vice Chairman Brett Bailey. “We introduced it by calling for speakers that were willing to explore big ideas worthy of consideration, but capable of delivering those ideas in a condensed timeframe.”

The two-hour program will tackle topics that either highlight disruption or provide solution in the collision-repair industry. Ten speakers will deliver fast-paced presentations designed to stimulate thought, innovation and resolution of business challenges with brash, outspoken and thought-provoking concepts. The lineup includes:

  • Jeff Hendler     
    owner, JD Hendler/Associates
  • M. Scott Ulnick
    managing principal, Ducker Worldwide
  • Dan Langford
    innovation director, Nevada Center for Advanced Mobility
    Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development
  • Pete Tagliapietra
    president, NuGen IT
  • Kevin Dunn
    CEO, Decisely
  • Amir Hever
    CEO, UVeye
  • John Shoemaker
    business development manager, BASF Automotive Refinish North America
  • Matthew Doude
    associate director, Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems
    Mississippi State University
  • Jason Verlen
    SVP product management, strategy and marketing, CCC Information Services
  • John Ellis
    principal, Ellis & Associates
    Author, The Zero Dollar Car

The IDEAS Collide Showcase will be included in the Full Series Pass option available at www.scrs.com/rde, or as a stand-alone session that can be selected online.

For more information about SCRS, or to join as a member, visit www.scrs.com, call 877-841-0660 or email info@scrs.com.

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 13:47

Compiled by SEMA Editors

NMRA
In 2019, the NMRA Ford Nationals will feature a lineup of all-Ford championship and shootout drag-racing classes, car shows and special events.

2019 NMRA Ford Nationals Event Schedule

The NMRA Ford Nationals has announced the 2019 national event schedule:

February 28–March 3, 2019
25th Annual NMRA Spring Break Shootout
Bradenton Motorsports Park
Bradenton, Florida

April 4–7, 2019
11th Annual NMRA/NMCA All-Star Nationals
Atlanta Dragway
Commerce, Georgia

May 16–19, 2019
Inaugural NMRA Gateway Rumble
Gateway Motorsports Park
Madison, Illinois

June 27–30, 2019
19th Annual NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals
Maple Grove Raceway
Mohnton, Pennsylvania

July 25–28, 2019
14th Annual NMRA/NMCA Super Bowl of Street-Legal Drag Racing
Route 66 Raceway
Joliet, Illinois

September 26–29, 2019
21st Annual NMRA All-Ford World Finals
Beech Bend Raceway
Bowling Green, Kentucky

NHRA
Top Fuel points leader Torrence has swept the first three races during Countdown to the Championship after his pass of 3.786-seconds at 325.92 mph in his Capco Contractors dragster defeated Terry McMillen’s 3.826 at 321.04 in the final round.

Torrence, Hight, Gray and Tonglet Victorious at AAA Texas NHRA Fallnationals

Steve Torrence piloted his dragster to the Top Fuel winners circle last Sunday afternoon to secure his first career victory at his hometown race, the AAA Texas NHRA Nationals at Texas Motorplex. Robert Hight (Funny Car), Tanner Gray (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle) were also winners in their respective categories at the third of six playoff events during the 2018 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship. Top Fuel points leader Torrence has swept the first three races during Countdown to the Championship after his pass of 3.786 seconds at 325.92 mph in his Capco Contractors dragster defeated Terry McMillen’s 3.826 at 321.04 in the final round. With the win, Torrence now has a 103-point lead over the category. Defending event and world champion Hight powered his Auto Club of Southern California Chevrolet Camaro SS to his second consecutive win with his pass of 3.955 at 325.69 to defeat J.R. Todd’s 3.984 at 319.52 in his DHL Toyota Camry. Hight has a 50-point lead over Todd after the win. Pro Stock’s Gray grabbed his second consecutive victory during the Countdown to the Championship with his pass of 6.622 at 207.62 in his Valvoline/Gray Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro to take down No. 1 qualifier Jeg Coughlin Jr. in the final round. In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Tonglet earned his fourth victory of 2018 and 20th of his career with his run of 6.892 at 194.80 to team owner Jerry Savoie’s 6.907 at 193.88. The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series continues October 12–14 with the fourth race in the Countdown to the Championship, the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Chris Forsberg
Formula DRIFT driver Chris Forsberg was inducted into the LA Sportswalk of Fame Monday, October 8.

Chris Forsberg Becomes First Formula DRIFT Driver Inducted Into LA Sportswalk of Fame

In a ceremony that took place Monday, October 8, in front of the Battleship Iowa in the Port of Los Angeles, Chris Forsberg was singled out for his success in the Formula DRIFT (FD) series over the past 15 years. The LA Sportswalk of Fame began in 1978 to honor the men and women who reach the top of their sports. For 2018, Forsberg was among 11 athletes selected for the award. He stood alongside NASCAR, IndyCar and off-road legend Robby Gordon, as well as 11-time Baja champion Johnny Campbell. Forseberg earned his place by virtue of being the most successful Formula DRIFT driver, with three championship titles earned in 2009, 2014 and 2016. He’s currently the second most successful in terms of round wins, with nine to his name, and has 36 podium places, which is more than any FD driver. He currently sits fourth in the 2018 FD Pro standings going into the final round this weekend.

Geoff Turk
At the wheel of his Holley EFI-powered Blackbird ’15 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak, Geoff Turk knocked off defending series champion Scott Libersher in the final round. 

Turk Clinches NMCA Holley EFI Factory Super Cars Championship With Another 7-Second Blast

Geoff Turk, who became the first member of the Holley EFI 7 Second Club with a historic 7.99 at the NMCA season opener, Muscle Car Mayhem, in Bradenton, Florida, ended 2018 with another seven-second charge at the World Street Finals in Indianapolis. He paced the field with a 7.98 and wrapped up the NMCA Holley EFI Factory Super Cars Championship with another victory. At the wheel of his Holley EFI-powered Blackbird ’15 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak, Turk led all qualifiers with the only seven-second pass of the weekend, then plowed through eliminations with times of 8.03, 8.10, 8.13, and 8.06, all at between 169 and 171 mph, to win going away. In the final round, Turk knocked off defending series champion Scott Libersher

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

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 13:47

Compiled by SEMA Editors

NMRA
In 2019, the NMRA Ford Nationals will feature a lineup of all-Ford championship and shootout drag-racing classes, car shows and special events.

2019 NMRA Ford Nationals Event Schedule

The NMRA Ford Nationals has announced the 2019 national event schedule:

February 28–March 3, 2019
25th Annual NMRA Spring Break Shootout
Bradenton Motorsports Park
Bradenton, Florida

April 4–7, 2019
11th Annual NMRA/NMCA All-Star Nationals
Atlanta Dragway
Commerce, Georgia

May 16–19, 2019
Inaugural NMRA Gateway Rumble
Gateway Motorsports Park
Madison, Illinois

June 27–30, 2019
19th Annual NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals
Maple Grove Raceway
Mohnton, Pennsylvania

July 25–28, 2019
14th Annual NMRA/NMCA Super Bowl of Street-Legal Drag Racing
Route 66 Raceway
Joliet, Illinois

September 26–29, 2019
21st Annual NMRA All-Ford World Finals
Beech Bend Raceway
Bowling Green, Kentucky

NHRA
Top Fuel points leader Torrence has swept the first three races during Countdown to the Championship after his pass of 3.786-seconds at 325.92 mph in his Capco Contractors dragster defeated Terry McMillen’s 3.826 at 321.04 in the final round.

Torrence, Hight, Gray and Tonglet Victorious at AAA Texas NHRA Fallnationals

Steve Torrence piloted his dragster to the Top Fuel winners circle last Sunday afternoon to secure his first career victory at his hometown race, the AAA Texas NHRA Nationals at Texas Motorplex. Robert Hight (Funny Car), Tanner Gray (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle) were also winners in their respective categories at the third of six playoff events during the 2018 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship. Top Fuel points leader Torrence has swept the first three races during Countdown to the Championship after his pass of 3.786 seconds at 325.92 mph in his Capco Contractors dragster defeated Terry McMillen’s 3.826 at 321.04 in the final round. With the win, Torrence now has a 103-point lead over the category. Defending event and world champion Hight powered his Auto Club of Southern California Chevrolet Camaro SS to his second consecutive win with his pass of 3.955 at 325.69 to defeat J.R. Todd’s 3.984 at 319.52 in his DHL Toyota Camry. Hight has a 50-point lead over Todd after the win. Pro Stock’s Gray grabbed his second consecutive victory during the Countdown to the Championship with his pass of 6.622 at 207.62 in his Valvoline/Gray Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro to take down No. 1 qualifier Jeg Coughlin Jr. in the final round. In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Tonglet earned his fourth victory of 2018 and 20th of his career with his run of 6.892 at 194.80 to team owner Jerry Savoie’s 6.907 at 193.88. The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series continues October 12–14 with the fourth race in the Countdown to the Championship, the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Chris Forsberg
Formula DRIFT driver Chris Forsberg was inducted into the LA Sportswalk of Fame Monday, October 8.

Chris Forsberg Becomes First Formula DRIFT Driver Inducted Into LA Sportswalk of Fame

In a ceremony that took place Monday, October 8, in front of the Battleship Iowa in the Port of Los Angeles, Chris Forsberg was singled out for his success in the Formula DRIFT (FD) series over the past 15 years. The LA Sportswalk of Fame began in 1978 to honor the men and women who reach the top of their sports. For 2018, Forsberg was among 11 athletes selected for the award. He stood alongside NASCAR, IndyCar and off-road legend Robby Gordon, as well as 11-time Baja champion Johnny Campbell. Forseberg earned his place by virtue of being the most successful Formula DRIFT driver, with three championship titles earned in 2009, 2014 and 2016. He’s currently the second most successful in terms of round wins, with nine to his name, and has 36 podium places, which is more than any FD driver. He currently sits fourth in the 2018 FD Pro standings going into the final round this weekend.

Geoff Turk
At the wheel of his Holley EFI-powered Blackbird ’15 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak, Geoff Turk knocked off defending series champion Scott Libersher in the final round. 

Turk Clinches NMCA Holley EFI Factory Super Cars Championship With Another 7-Second Blast

Geoff Turk, who became the first member of the Holley EFI 7 Second Club with a historic 7.99 at the NMCA season opener, Muscle Car Mayhem, in Bradenton, Florida, ended 2018 with another seven-second charge at the World Street Finals in Indianapolis. He paced the field with a 7.98 and wrapped up the NMCA Holley EFI Factory Super Cars Championship with another victory. At the wheel of his Holley EFI-powered Blackbird ’15 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak, Turk led all qualifiers with the only seven-second pass of the weekend, then plowed through eliminations with times of 8.03, 8.10, 8.13, and 8.06, all at between 169 and 171 mph, to win going away. In the final round, Turk knocked off defending series champion Scott Libersher

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

Thu, 10/11/2018 - 13:26

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Steve Turner
Steve Turner

Steve Turner Announced as New Editor of Fastest Street Car Magazine, Steve Baur Promoted to Digital Content Manager

ProMedia Events and Publishing has announced veteran journalist, book writer and photographer Steve Turner is joining the staff as editor of Fastest Street Car magazine, in addition to the promotion of Steve Baur to digital content editor. Turner becomes the fourth editor in Fastest Street Car’s 18-year history. Baur’s position is a new title to enhance the digital division that ProMedia formed last year. Turner is a veteran in the automotive enthusiast editorial segment for more than 25 years, rising to be the editor of 5.0 Mustang & Super Fords magazine, a title he presided over from 1999–2014. Following that position, Turner helped launch digital content products at two prominent web-based magazines. His first exposure to street-legal drag racing was in 1994 when he was on assignment to cover a Hot Rod magazine event in Memphis. Turner is also the recipient of the NMRA Decade Award in 2008 for outstanding contributions and commitment to the all-Ford motorsport event series. Baur most recently served as the editor of Fastest Street Car magazine, a position he held for four years. He’s celebrating 20 years in the editorial business as a journalist and photographer. Prior to joining the ProMedia team he was the editor of Modified Mustangs & Fords and held senior editorial positions at Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords, GM High-Tech Performance and High Performance Pontiac.

SEMA Data Co-op to Host Live Webinar for Brands and Manufacturers at the SEMA Show

Join the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), eBay and SEMA members SureDone and E-Motiven, October 16, at 2:00 p.m. (EDT), for a live webinar designed for specialty-equipment brands and manufacturers focusing on e-commerce marketplaces. Topics will include “How to Overcome Channel Conflict When Selling Direct to Consumer,” “Preparing Your Data for Use on e-commerce Marketplaces,” “Knowledge Gained by Brands and Manufacturers When Using SEMA Data Co-op for e-commerce Data,” “The eBay Motors Opportunity for Brands and Manufacturers,” and “What Brands and Manufacturers Should Think About When Going Direct to Consumers.” At the completion of the webinar there will be a live Q&A with all of the presenters. For more information and to sign up for the webinar visit https://try.suredone.com/sdc-webinar

Directed Introduces Directed Rewards

Directed has announced the launch of Directed Rewards—a new dealer incentive program—in advance of the upcoming remote start season. The Directed Rewards program was designed to motivate and reward Directed’s dealers and installers. At launch, the Directed Rewards program will be available for all Viper SmartStart, Directed SmartStart and Viper Powersports GPS products. From now until December 31, salespeople and installers can earn up to $20 for each eligible unit sold. Participants can log in to Directed Rewards, claim the reward by entering the eligible Air ID and then he or she will receive a cash gift card at the end of the month. The program is open to all Directed dealers in the United States and Canada. To register their sales and install personnel, retail storeowners or managers can opt-in to Directed Rewards by filling out a brief authorization form to receive a unique dealer registration code. Visit www.directedrewards.com to learn more. Directed will exhibit at the 2018 SEMA Show in the South Hall Upper, booth #37007.

Hypertherm
Hypertherm’s Barbara Couch (right) with New Hampshire Governor John Sununu, and representatives from Lebanon High School and Hypertherm.

New Hampshire Honors Hypertherm for Excellence in Work-Based Learning

Hypertherm received an award for excellence in work-based learning in the Overall Champion category. New Hampshire Governor John Sununu presented Hypertherm, and specifically Barbara Couch, president of the Hypertherm Owners’ Philanthropic Endeavors (HOPE) Foundation, the award during a ceremony in Concord, New Hampshire. The company was selected during an evaluation process that followed its nomination by Lebanon High School. Judges recognized Couch for her leadership in promoting work-based learning across New Hampshire, encouraging Hypertherm associates to volunteer, participating on numerous boards and sponsoring events through the HOPE foundation. Judges also called out Hypertherm’s STEM internship program for high school seniors and its SHAPE for STEM initiative, which includes the sponsorship of STEM camps for middle school students, and the sponsorship of STEM clubs for students beginning in elementary school.

imre Agency Acquires JMPR

imre, an independently owned, integrated marketing agency, has acquired JMPR, a Los Angeles-based public-relations agency specializing in the luxury, lifestyle and transportation industries. With this acquisition, imre adds JMPR’s full staff of public-relations professionals to its West Coast operation, doubling the size of imre’s Los Angeles office. Beyond this addition to its Los Angeles location, imre maintains offices in Baltimore and New York City and has also formally established the imre Health brand alongside its long-standing consumer practice.

VP Racing Fuels Launches New Mobile App

VP Racing Fuels Inc. has announced the launch of its new, fast-paced “FIND VP” mobile app, allowing consumers to find VP products available nearby. Consumers will now be able to locate and select from the products that VP offers, including race and performance fuels, lubricants, Madditives and branded gas stations. The new FIND VP app includes push notifications to stay up on the latest that VP offers, as well as brand and product updates. If the app user has a technical question or a special request, they can locate the local VP regional contact as well for help. VP will add more features and benefits to the new release over the year, including social login and sharing, user profiles and consumer feedback.

Lumileds
Lumileds’ new warehouse and distribution center in Tepotzotlán, Mexico. 

Lumileds Opens New Distribution Center in Tepotzotlán, Mexico; Names Chris McPhedran National Sales Manager for Canada

Lumileds has announced the opening of a new warehouse and distribution center in Tepotzotlán, Mexico. The new facility is designed to better accommodate Lumileds’ growing customer base in Mexico and meet the demand for Philips Automotive Lighting products. The new Tepotzotlán warehouse is located at Calle Libramiento Norte De Tepotzotlán  S/N Edificio 1, Colonia Barrio Tlacateco Tepotzotlán, Edo. De Mexico. C.P 54605. The facility currently inventories a portfolio of popular SKUs focused on the Mexican market.

In addition, Lumileds has appointed Chris McPhedran its national sales manager for Canada responsible for overseeing all aspects of sales for the Lumileds automotive aftermarket channel in Canada. McPhedran came to Lumileds with a decade of sales management experience in the Canadian market. He spent the last seven years with Horizon Global. From 2017–2018, he served as the director of sales and marketing for the North American RV and Marine channel. From 2011–2017, McPhedran was Horizon Global’s director of sales for Canada and the Northeastern United States.

TMG Performance Unveils a New Volant Performance

Volant Performance—a TMG Performance Products brand—has unveiled a new look, new marketing campaign and stronger brand promises. The company has invested in air-intake design language, improved lid designs, better packaging, improved instruction sheets, lifetime warranty protection, enhanced minimum advertised pricing (MAP) program and the “Volant for Life” air filtration program. Volant Performance’s new program and air-intake designs will be on display at the 2018 SEMA Show in booth #24929 and available November 1 in the marketplace.

National Auto Parts Warehouse Makes Seventh Acquisition for 2018

National Performance Warehouse Companies (NPW), has announced that it will acquire Performance Warehouse in the Pacific Northwest, again expanding the company’s presence on the West Coast. The transaction is expected to close October 15. NPW will add two warehouses to make the company’s warehouse total now 19 across the United States and Canada. The package includes the Hillsboro, Oregon, and Tacoma Washington, warehouses and four stores—three in California and one in Idaho. Performance Warehouse will continue to operate with JR Moore at the helm, and industry veteran Mark Noble will oversee the two warehouse operations and the four stores, while Bonnie Delaney will join the NPW marketing team. The Baxter Stores will continue to operate with Ken Moore, Jim Moore and Kim Cham.

AutoMeter Chrono Instruments Awarded Best New Performance Product at Custom Automotive Network Connect Conferences

AutoMeter Products Inc. has announced that its Chrono series gauges were recognized by industry peers as winner of the 2018 Best New Performance Product Award at the Custom Automotive Network (CAN) Connect Conferences held in Frisco, Texas. Judging and final selection for the award were conducted by conference attendees from amidst a hotly contested field of entries in the CAN Connect New Product Showcase.

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.