By Della Domingo

Instead of rushing through more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space in just one day, attend the SEMA Show all four days of the event. The cost to attend is the same.

The 2018 SEMA Show, being held October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas, is right around the corner. There is still time for buyers to register to attend. The following are ways buyers can get the greatest value from their SEMA Show badge:

• Entry to the SEMA Show all four days of the event. Instead of rushing through more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space, attend the SEMA Show all four days of the event. The cost is the same and you won’t miss out on experiencing all the innovation the Show has to offer.
• Express Entry into the SEMA Show. Buyers from the United States and Canada who register before October 12 will have their badges mailed to them in advance. Having your badge in your hand will allow you to hit the floor running.
• Discounted early registration fee of just $40. The price increases after October 12, so save money by applying for credentials today.
• Admission to more than 100 educational seminars. Leaders on topics ranging from digital marketing and sponsorship to accounting and emissions share their expertise throughout the week. Rather than attending a separate conference or event later in the year, take advantage of the time to attend one or more of the seminars available to SEMA showgoers free of charge. 
• Discount rates on nearly 50 official SEMA Show hotels. The official SEMA Show housing partner OnPeak offers rooms at guaranteed discount rates, starting as low as $100. Many of the properties offer no resort fees and no cancellation penalties.
• Access to 2,400 exhibitors. The SEMA Show is the only place where the industry can meet face-to-face with more than 2,400 manufacturers of automotive parts and equipment. As a trade-only event, this is the place to connect with existing business partners and make new connections.
• Admission to the New Products Breakfast. Held on the first day of the SEMA Show before the Show officially opens, showgoers are invited to fuel up with a sit-down breakfast while awards for the Best New Products are announced. Because space is limited, tickets are required—but they are free.
• Admission to the official SEMA Show after-party, SEMA Ignited. After the SEMA Show closes, the industry heads over to SEMA Ignited, where thousands of consumers are able to get a first glimpse at the industry’s newest innovations and trends. While consumers purchase tickets to attend SEMA Ignited, your SEMA Show badge provides free admission.
• Access to hundreds of automotive celebrities, racecar drivers and television personalities. Hundreds of celebrities will be in attendance, including Ken Block, Chip Foose, Tanner Foust, John Force, Richard Petty, Dave Kindig, Emerson Fittipaldi and Jessi Combs. Check out the schedule and get a selfie with your favorites.  
• Entry to the AAPEX Show. The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), taking place at the Sands Expo, partners with the SEMA Show, so one badge provides entry to both shows. A free shuttle runs between the two shows throughout the event to make it easy to get from one venue to the other. 

Register for the 2018 SEMA Show today to get the greatest value.

By SEMA Editors

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) is responding to aftermarket families affected by hurricane Florence.

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has launched phase one of urgent response to aftermarket families affected by hurricane Florence. The New York Times reported that the storm has never been more dangerous. It has claimed 16 lives in North Carolina and South Carolina, and more than one million people were without power last Saturday.

“Applications for help increased 78% in the wake of last year’s unprecedented hurricane season, so we initiated crisis-response plans last week,” said AACF President Lynn Parker. “Thousands of aftermarket employees live and work in the impact areas. We will be working with our Awareness Partners, SEMA, the Auto Care Association, MEMA and others to try to reach aftermarket families in need as quickly as possible.”

More evacuations were issued in North Carolina last Sunday, with about 15,000 people in shelters as of Sunday afternoon.

Aftermarket families in need are asked to complete the simple application on the AACF website. Donations can be made online or by calling 772-286-5500.

By SEMA Editors

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) is responding to aftermarket families affected by hurricane Florence.

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has launched phase one of urgent response to aftermarket families affected by hurricane Florence. The New York Times reported that the storm has never been more dangerous. It has claimed 16 lives in North Carolina and South Carolina, and more than one million people were without power last Saturday.

“Applications for help increased 78% in the wake of last year’s unprecedented hurricane season, so we initiated crisis-response plans last week,” said AACF President Lynn Parker. “Thousands of aftermarket employees live and work in the impact areas. We will be working with our Awareness Partners, SEMA, the Auto Care Association, MEMA and others to try to reach aftermarket families in need as quickly as possible.”

More evacuations were issued in North Carolina last Sunday, with about 15,000 people in shelters as of Sunday afternoon.

Aftermarket families in need are asked to complete the simple application on the AACF website. Donations can be made online or by calling 772-286-5500.

By SEMA Editors

Alex Carmona has been named the artist of the 2018 SEMA Show.

The 2018 SEMA Show, taking place October 30–November 2 in Las Vegas, will have a new look this year featuring the artwork of Alex Carmona, who will become part of a tradition that was established by celebrated automotive artists Max Grundy and Ed Tillrock. Carmona’s art will be woven into marketing material and signage onsite and online to help heighten the energy of the SEMA Show experience by striking a chord with Showgoers at the exclusive event.

“Being named the artist of the 2018 SEMA Show is overwhelming and exciting. After seeing last year the impact that art has at the SEMA Show, I’m excited to take on this challenge,” said Carmona. “I’m looking forward to showcasing my art to the thousands of buyers and exhibitors who will be in attendance.”

Show officials feature a new artist every two to three years at the SEMA Show to help mirror industry trends and innovation for attendees. The annual four-day trade-only event makes it possible for manufacturers of auto parts and accessories to connect and do business with buyers from all over the world.

“Alex Carmona’s art will help the 2018 SEMA Show experience strike a chord in the heart and soul of our industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Events and Business Development Peter MacGillivray. “We work with elite artists from the industry to produce original and authentic artwork for the Show that will resonate with Showgoers.”

Carmona specializes in traditional printmaking and art, producing relief prints from wood or linoleum plates that he carves by hand. The 29-year-old has used this technique to produce many automotive prints during his career.

“I love to put action into my artwork and have it tell a story,” said Carmona. “I believe all good art will always be appreciated, but if I can tell a story with my art, rather than it just be a pretty car to look at, I will be able to attract more people and guide them to the different areas of the SEMA Show."

For more information about Carmona’s artwork, visit www.oldschoolalex.com or follow him on Instagram @TheRealOldSchoolAlex.

By SEMA Editors

Alex Carmona has been named the artist of the 2018 SEMA Show.

The 2018 SEMA Show, taking place October 30–November 2 in Las Vegas, will have a new look this year featuring the artwork of Alex Carmona, who will become part of a tradition that was established by celebrated automotive artists Max Grundy and Ed Tillrock. Carmona’s art will be woven into marketing material and signage onsite and online to help heighten the energy of the SEMA Show experience by striking a chord with Showgoers at the exclusive event.

“Being named the artist of the 2018 SEMA Show is overwhelming and exciting. After seeing last year the impact that art has at the SEMA Show, I’m excited to take on this challenge,” said Carmona. “I’m looking forward to showcasing my art to the thousands of buyers and exhibitors who will be in attendance.”

Show officials feature a new artist every two to three years at the SEMA Show to help mirror industry trends and innovation for attendees. The annual four-day trade-only event makes it possible for manufacturers of auto parts and accessories to connect and do business with buyers from all over the world.

“Alex Carmona’s art will help the 2018 SEMA Show experience strike a chord in the heart and soul of our industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Events and Business Development Peter MacGillivray. “We work with elite artists from the industry to produce original and authentic artwork for the Show that will resonate with Showgoers.”

Carmona specializes in traditional printmaking and art, producing relief prints from wood or linoleum plates that he carves by hand. The 29-year-old has used this technique to produce many automotive prints during his career.

“I love to put action into my artwork and have it tell a story,” said Carmona. “I believe all good art will always be appreciated, but if I can tell a story with my art, rather than it just be a pretty car to look at, I will be able to attract more people and guide them to the different areas of the SEMA Show."

For more information about Carmona’s artwork, visit www.oldschoolalex.com or follow him on Instagram @TheRealOldSchoolAlex.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

J.R. Todd went 3.972 seconds at 319.90 mph in his 10,000hp DHL Toyota Camry to defeat Tim Wilkerson’s 4.196 at 249.95 in the final round.

Todd, Torrence, Nobile and H. Arana Jr. Victorious at Dodge NHRA Nationals

J.R. Todd moved into the Funny Car points lead with his second straight victory of 2018 last Sunday at the 34th Dodge NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway. Steve Torrence (Top Fuel), Vincent Nobile (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle) were also winners in their respective categories at the first of six playoff events during the 2018 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship. Todd went 3.972 seconds at 319.90 mph in his 10,000hp DHL Toyota Camry to defeat Tim Wilkerson’s 4.196 at 249.95 in the final round. Todd now has a 23-point lead on defending world champion Robert Hight. In Top Fuel, Torrence maintained his points lead after going 3.819 at 325.45 to beat Tony Schumacher’s 4.196 at 234.82 and pick up his sixth victory in 2018 and 22nd of his career in his 10,000hp Capco Contractors dragster. Pro Stock’s Nobile grabbed his third victory of the season and 13th in his career in his Mountain View Tire Chevrolet Camaro after going 6.586 at 210.01 in the final round to defeat Drew Skillman’s 6.580 at 211.53. Nobile moved to second in the points standings. In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Arana Jr. earned a victory with a run of 6.842 at 197.74 on his Lucas Oil Racing TV EBR in his final-round matchup against No. 1 qualifier Matt Smith, who slowed to a 7.306 at 145.88. Arana Jr. jumped to second in points. The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series continues September 21–23, with the second race in the Countdown to the Championship—the AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest Nationals at Gateway Motorsports Park in Madison, Illinois.

James Deane and Piotr Wiecek go head to head in the final race of the Forumla Drift Auto Cup in Texas.

Piotr Wiecek Takes First 2018 Win and Toyota Clinches the Auto Cup at Formula Drift Texas

Qualifying first and third respectively for the Texas round of the Formula DRIFT Black Magic Pro Championship, teammates James Deane and Piotr Wiecek faced each other in the FD finals. With a bye round in the Top 32, Deane narrowly beat Kenshiro Gushi in the GPP Toyota Racing/Falken Tire Toyota 86 in the Sweet 16. He then faced Daijiro Yoshihara in the Turn 14 Distribution/Falken Tire Subaru BRZ in the Great 8. Yoshihara had previously competed against Aurimas “Odi” Bakchis in the Falken Tires/Maxxoil/Drifz Wheels Nissan S14 in the Sweet 16. The pair were inseparable, resulting in the judges requesting “One More Time.” The win went to Yoshihara, but he subsequently fell to Deane, who faced his arch-rival, Fredric Aasbo, in the Final Four. Despite two close runs, the judges gave the decision to Deane, who would face Wiecek in the Final. In the Final Four, Wiecek defeated Chelsea Denofa in the BC Racing/Nitto Tire/Ford Performance Mustang RTR. Deane’s Nissan S14 shut down in the first corner of the second run and gifted the win to Wiecek.

Travis Pastrana will compete in the inaugural NRX event against a host of top competitors.

Yokohama Named the Official Tire for the Nitro Rallycross at the Nitro World Games

Yokohama’s ADVAN A054 is the official tire for Nitro Rallycross (NRX), a new event at the third annual Nitro World Games, September 22–23, at Utah Motorsports Campus near Salt Lake City. NRX utilizes an all-new track layout that will feature some of the world’s best drivers battling for the top spot on a challenging, purpose-built track. Nitro Circus co-founder and action sports superstar Travis Pastrana will compete in the inaugural NRX event against a host of top competitors. Yokohama is an official sponsor of the Nitro World Games action sports competition, as well as a marketing partner of Nitro Circus. Yokohama is the exclusive tire of the 2018 Nitro Circus You Got This arena tour in the United States.

Champion Racing Oil Sponsors National Open at Williams Grove Speedway

The Champion Racing Oil National Open at Williams Grove Speedway for sprint cars sanctioned by the World of Outlaws Craftsman Series is paying out more than $50,000 to the winner, October 26–27.

The Firepunk Diesel team celebrates their third consecutive win at the 2018 Ultimate Callout Challenge in Indianapolis.

Hot Shot’s Secret Adds Full Firepunk Diesel Drag Racing Team to Roster   

Lubrication Specialties Inc., manufacturer of Hot Shot’s Secret Adrenaline Racing Oil and high-performance fuel and oil additives, has announced sponsorship of the full Firepunk Diesel Race Team. The team is one of the top race teams in diesel drag-racing competition, including the NHRDA Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Drag Racing Series and the Outlaw Diesel Super Series. Prior to August, Hot Shot’s Secret sponsored Lavon Miller of Firepunk Diesel, widely known for his three consecutive wins in the Ultimate Callout Challenge. Now, in addition to sponsoring Miller, Hot Shot’s Secret is sponsoring the entire Firepunk Diesel Race Team. Three of the team members won their classes at a recent Outlaw Diesel Super Series event, the Scheid Diesel Extravaganza, in E.T. Bracket and 7.70 Index (Landon Miller), 5.9 Index (Rick Fox) and Pro Mod (Larson Miller). Other racers sponsored by Hot Shot’s Secret who won include Art Maupin (6.70 Index) and Wade Moody (Pro Dragster).

NMRA, NMCA Release 2019 Events Schedules

The NMRA and NMCA have released their 2019 event schedules. The only major changes for NMRA were the addition of Gateway Motorsports Park in May, and the Ford Motorsport Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway has been moved to the end of the June. The other four locations and dates are consistent with the NMRA’s regular schedule. The NMCA Muscle Car Nationals saw the addition of Memphis International Raceway in the opening weekend of May with a consistent location/date for the other five events.

View the NMRA 2019 event schedule.

View the NMCA 2019 event schedule.

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

By SEMA Editors

More than 3,000 credentialed media attend the SEMA Show each year. One of the many ways exhibitors can get their news to editors and reporters is by holding a press conference at the SEMA Show.

The official press conference schedule has been released for the 2018 SEMA Show, taking place Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas.

Official 2018 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule

Monday, October 29, 2018

• 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.—SEMA: Media Preview Exclusive, Presented by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
  (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SEMA: Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Truck and Offroad Market Updates (Media Center, Rm.
  S229)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Texas Auto Media Association: Auto Judge Awards Presentation (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.—SEMA: Vehicle Reveal, Featuring the SEMA Award Press Conference (Outside the Grand Lobby Entrance)

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

• 7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.—SEMA: New Products Breakfast; breakfast will be served (Paradise Event Center, located in the Westgate Hotel)
• 9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—KIA Motors America Inc., Kia Motors America (Booth #10809)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—SHELL, Flat Twelve Gallery and SEMA “V06” Debut (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—Toyota Motor North America, Toyota Press Conference (Booth #24800)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—Ford Motor Co., Ford SEMA 2018 Press Conference (Booth #22200)
• 11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.—Magnaflow, Unveil of the Superformance GT40 Le Mans Tribute (Booth #23543)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—Ringbrothers, Ringbrothers Unveil ’72 K5 Blazer (Booth #23283)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:20 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Top 40 Finalists (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)
• 12:30 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SHELL, ’68 Bullitt Mustang SEMA Debut; Lunch will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—American Honda Motor Co. Inc., American Honda Motor Company (Booth #24887)
• 2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.—Automotive Racing Products Inc, TUX Street Machine of the Year 2018 (Booth #22613)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—Flowmaster, Hurst, B&M, Unveiling of Booth Show Cars (Booth #22351)
• 3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.—Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes, Sherwin-Williams—More than just a great finish! (Booth #11339)
• 3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.—Lund International, Lund International to Debut Ford Concept Vehicle by Dicus Designs (Booth #31017)
• 4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.—Polaris Slingshot, Slingshot Joyride Experience (Booth #80050, Westgate Lot)
• 4:26 p.m.–4:50 p.m.—FCA US/Mopar, FCA US: MOPAR Media Briefing (Booth #43141)
• 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.—SHELL, SHELL and Motorsports Alliances: The Business Behind the Sport; cocktails will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

• 8:30 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—SHELL, SHELL Rotella Unveils its Latest Product Innovation…for Gas-Powered Trucks; breakfast will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—Coker Tire, Coker Tire Does It Again! Revolutionary Radials! (Booth #22775)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—National Street Rod Association, NSRA 50th Street Rod Nationals Giveaway Cars (Booth #22575)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—Formula Drift Holdings LLC, What’s in Store for the 2019 Championship (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 11:10 a.m.–11:20 a.m.—Tire Industry Association (TIA), TIA's 2019 Outlook and Updates—Certified Training and Government Affairs (Booth #40066)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—APR, Unveiling of Booth Show Cars (Booth #22351)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.—SHELL, My Car Is Like Your Car SEMA Debut; lunch will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Top 12 Finalists (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Brembo North America Inc, Brembo Caliper Reveal (Booth #23261)
• 2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.—Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Goodguys Gold Awards Presentation (Booth #22975)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—Castel Technologies, Castel Technologies for ENICAR Connected (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.—NGK Spark Plugs, NGK is Launching New High-Ignitability Spark Plugs (Media Center, Rm. S229)   
• 3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.—AkzoNobel, AkzoNobel’s 10-Year Partnership with McLaren (Booth #25163)
• 4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.—Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners, 2018 Mothers Shine Award (Booth #22957)
• 4:30 p.m.–4:50 p.m.—SHELL, Shell and NS2 SERVES NEXT Jeep Project (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)

Thursday, November 1, 2018

• 8:30 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—TRI-ACE Tires, TRI-ACE Tires “Winning” Rubber Wars; breakfast will be served (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—ASA Automotive Systems, ASA Automotive Systems and Fog Software Group Continue their Expansion in the Automotive Vertical (Booth #41043)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—Arcimoto Inc., Future of Transportation: Making Electric Affordable + Fun (Booth #38026)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—J.W. Speaker Corp., New Revolutionary Technology for Off-Road (Booth #34229)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—Rust-Oleum Corp., New Innovations Debut: Factor 4 Wax & Turbo Spray System (Booth #13073)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.—Turtle Wax Inc., Marvel Mystery Oil; lunch will be served (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—OPTIMA Batteries, OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational Announcements (Booth #20323)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Kooks Headers & Exhaust, Kooks Headers, MOPAR vs. Chevy Unveiling (Booth #24849)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—A+E Networks, HISTORY Unveils Robust DRIVE Programming Block with A-List Auto Talent (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)

Friday, November 2, 2018

• 10:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 12 Finalists Judging (SEMA Cruise, South Hall)
• 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 4 Finalists Announced (SEMA Cruise, South Hall)
• 7:00 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Winner Announced (SEMA Ignited, Platinum Lot)

By SEMA Editors

More than 3,000 credentialed media attend the SEMA Show each year. One of the many ways exhibitors can get their news to editors and reporters is by holding a press conference at the SEMA Show.

The official press conference schedule has been released for the 2018 SEMA Show, taking place Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas.

Official 2018 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule

Monday, October 29, 2018

• 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.—SEMA: Media Preview Exclusive, Presented by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
  (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SEMA: Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Truck and Offroad Market Updates (Media Center, Rm.
  S229)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Texas Auto Media Association: Auto Judge Awards Presentation (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.—SEMA: Vehicle Reveal, Featuring the SEMA Award Press Conference (Outside the Grand Lobby Entrance)

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

• 7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.—SEMA: New Products Breakfast; breakfast will be served (Paradise Event Center, located in the Westgate Hotel)
• 9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—KIA Motors America Inc., Kia Motors America (Booth #10809)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—SHELL, Flat Twelve Gallery and SEMA “V06” Debut (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—Toyota Motor North America, Toyota Press Conference (Booth #24800)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—Ford Motor Co., Ford SEMA 2018 Press Conference (Booth #22200)
• 11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.—Magnaflow, Unveil of the Superformance GT40 Le Mans Tribute (Booth #23543)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—Ringbrothers, Ringbrothers Unveil ’72 K5 Blazer (Booth #23283)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:20 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Top 40 Finalists (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)
• 12:30 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SHELL, ’68 Bullitt Mustang SEMA Debut; Lunch will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—American Honda Motor Co. Inc., American Honda Motor Company (Booth #24887)
• 2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.—Automotive Racing Products Inc, TUX Street Machine of the Year 2018 (Booth #22613)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—Flowmaster, Hurst, B&M, Unveiling of Booth Show Cars (Booth #22351)
• 3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.—Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes, Sherwin-Williams—More than just a great finish! (Booth #11339)
• 3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.—Lund International, Lund International to Debut Ford Concept Vehicle by Dicus Designs (Booth #31017)
• 4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.—Polaris Slingshot, Slingshot Joyride Experience (Booth #80050, Westgate Lot)
• 4:26 p.m.–4:50 p.m.—FCA US/Mopar, FCA US: MOPAR Media Briefing (Booth #43141)
• 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.—SHELL, SHELL and Motorsports Alliances: The Business Behind the Sport; cocktails will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

• 8:30 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—SHELL, SHELL Rotella Unveils its Latest Product Innovation…for Gas-Powered Trucks; breakfast will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—Coker Tire, Coker Tire Does It Again! Revolutionary Radials! (Booth #22775)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—National Street Rod Association, NSRA 50th Street Rod Nationals Giveaway Cars (Booth #22575)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—Formula Drift Holdings LLC, What’s in Store for the 2019 Championship (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 11:10 a.m.–11:20 a.m.—Tire Industry Association (TIA), TIA's 2019 Outlook and Updates—Certified Training and Government Affairs (Booth #40066)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—APR, Unveiling of Booth Show Cars (Booth #22351)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.—SHELL, My Car Is Like Your Car SEMA Debut; lunch will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Top 12 Finalists (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Brembo North America Inc, Brembo Caliper Reveal (Booth #23261)
• 2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.—Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Goodguys Gold Awards Presentation (Booth #22975)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—Castel Technologies, Castel Technologies for ENICAR Connected (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.—NGK Spark Plugs, NGK is Launching New High-Ignitability Spark Plugs (Media Center, Rm. S229)   
• 3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.—AkzoNobel, AkzoNobel’s 10-Year Partnership with McLaren (Booth #25163)
• 4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.—Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners, 2018 Mothers Shine Award (Booth #22957)
• 4:30 p.m.–4:50 p.m.—SHELL, Shell and NS2 SERVES NEXT Jeep Project (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)

Thursday, November 1, 2018

• 8:30 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—TRI-ACE Tires, TRI-ACE Tires “Winning” Rubber Wars; breakfast will be served (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—ASA Automotive Systems, ASA Automotive Systems and Fog Software Group Continue their Expansion in the Automotive Vertical (Booth #41043)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—Arcimoto Inc., Future of Transportation: Making Electric Affordable + Fun (Booth #38026)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—J.W. Speaker Corp., New Revolutionary Technology for Off-Road (Booth #34229)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—Rust-Oleum Corp., New Innovations Debut: Factor 4 Wax & Turbo Spray System (Booth #13073)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.—Turtle Wax Inc., Marvel Mystery Oil; lunch will be served (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—OPTIMA Batteries, OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational Announcements (Booth #20323)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Kooks Headers & Exhaust, Kooks Headers, MOPAR vs. Chevy Unveiling (Booth #24849)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—A+E Networks, HISTORY Unveils Robust DRIVE Programming Block with A-List Auto Talent (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)

Friday, November 2, 2018

• 10:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 12 Finalists Judging (SEMA Cruise, South Hall)
• 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 4 Finalists Announced (SEMA Cruise, South Hall)
• 7:00 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Winner Announced (SEMA Ignited, Platinum Lot)

By SEMA Editors

More than 3,000 credentialed media attend the SEMA Show each year. One of the many ways exhibitors can get their news to editors and reporters is by holding a press conference at the SEMA Show.

The official press conference schedule has been released for the 2018 SEMA Show, taking place Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas.

Official 2018 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule

Monday, October 29, 2018

• 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.—SEMA: Media Preview Exclusive, Presented by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
  (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SEMA: Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Truck and Offroad Market Updates (Media Center, Rm.
  S229)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Texas Auto Media Association: Auto Judge Awards Presentation (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.—SEMA: Vehicle Reveal, Featuring the SEMA Award Press Conference (Outside the Grand Lobby Entrance)

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

• 7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.—SEMA: New Products Breakfast; breakfast will be served (Paradise Event Center, located in the Westgate Hotel)
• 9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—KIA Motors America Inc., Kia Motors America (Booth #10809)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—SHELL, Flat Twelve Gallery and SEMA “V06” Debut (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—Toyota Motor North America, Toyota Press Conference (Booth #24800)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—Ford Motor Co., Ford SEMA 2018 Press Conference (Booth #22200)
• 11:00 a.m.–11:20 a.m.—Magnaflow, Unveil of the Superformance GT40 Le Mans Tribute (Booth #23543)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—Ringbrothers, Ringbrothers Unveil ’72 K5 Blazer (Booth #23283)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:20 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Top 40 Finalists (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)
• 12:30 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SHELL, ’68 Bullitt Mustang SEMA Debut; Lunch will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—American Honda Motor Co. Inc., American Honda Motor Company (Booth #24887)
• 2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.—Automotive Racing Products Inc, TUX Street Machine of the Year 2018 (Booth #22613)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—Flowmaster, Hurst, B&M, Unveiling of Booth Show Cars (Booth #22351)
• 3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.—Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes, Sherwin-Williams—More than just a great finish! (Booth #11339)
• 3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.—Lund International, Lund International to Debut Ford Concept Vehicle by Dicus Designs (Booth #31017)
• 4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.—Polaris Slingshot, Slingshot Joyride Experience (Booth #80050, Westgate Lot)
• 4:26 p.m.–4:50 p.m.—FCA US/Mopar, FCA US: MOPAR Media Briefing (Booth #43141)
• 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.—SHELL, SHELL and Motorsports Alliances: The Business Behind the Sport; cocktails will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

• 8:30 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—SHELL, SHELL Rotella Unveils its Latest Product Innovation…for Gas-Powered Trucks; breakfast will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—Coker Tire, Coker Tire Does It Again! Revolutionary Radials! (Booth #22775)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—National Street Rod Association, NSRA 50th Street Rod Nationals Giveaway Cars (Booth #22575)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—Formula Drift Holdings LLC, What’s in Store for the 2019 Championship (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 11:10 a.m.–11:20 a.m.—Tire Industry Association (TIA), TIA's 2019 Outlook and Updates—Certified Training and Government Affairs (Booth #40066)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—APR, Unveiling of Booth Show Cars (Booth #22351)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.—SHELL, My Car Is Like Your Car SEMA Debut; lunch will be served (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Top 12 Finalists (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Brembo North America Inc, Brembo Caliper Reveal (Booth #23261)
• 2:00 p.m.–2:20 p.m.—Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Goodguys Gold Awards Presentation (Booth #22975)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—Castel Technologies, Castel Technologies for ENICAR Connected (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 3:00 p.m.–3:20 p.m.—NGK Spark Plugs, NGK is Launching New High-Ignitability Spark Plugs (Media Center, Rm. S229)   
• 3:30 p.m.–3:50 p.m.—AkzoNobel, AkzoNobel’s 10-Year Partnership with McLaren (Booth #25163)
• 4:00 p.m.–4:20 p.m.—Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners, 2018 Mothers Shine Award (Booth #22957)
• 4:30 p.m.–4:50 p.m.—SHELL, Shell and NS2 SERVES NEXT Jeep Project (Booth #60005, Silver Lot)

Thursday, November 1, 2018

• 8:30 a.m.–9:20 a.m.—TRI-ACE Tires, TRI-ACE Tires “Winning” Rubber Wars; breakfast will be served (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 9:30 a.m.–9:50 a.m.—ASA Automotive Systems, ASA Automotive Systems and Fog Software Group Continue their Expansion in the Automotive Vertical (Booth #41043)
• 10:00 a.m.–10:20 a.m.—Arcimoto Inc., Future of Transportation: Making Electric Affordable + Fun (Booth #38026)
• 10:30 a.m.–10:50 a.m.—J.W. Speaker Corp., New Revolutionary Technology for Off-Road (Booth #34229)
• 11:30 a.m.–11:50 a.m.—Rust-Oleum Corp., New Innovations Debut: Factor 4 Wax & Turbo Spray System (Booth #13073)
• 12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.—Turtle Wax Inc., Marvel Mystery Oil; lunch will be served (Media Center, Rm. S229)
• 1:00 p.m.–1:20 p.m.—OPTIMA Batteries, OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational Announcements (Booth #20323)
• 1:30 p.m.–1:50 p.m.—Kooks Headers & Exhaust, Kooks Headers, MOPAR vs. Chevy Unveiling (Booth #24849)
• 2:30 p.m.–2:50 p.m.—A+E Networks, HISTORY Unveils Robust DRIVE Programming Block with A-List Auto Talent (Grand Lobby, SEMA Central)

Friday, November 2, 2018

• 10:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 12 Finalists Judging (SEMA Cruise, South Hall)
• 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Top 4 Finalists Announced (SEMA Cruise, South Hall)
• 7:00 p.m.—SEMA: Battle of the Builders Winner Announced (SEMA Ignited, Platinum Lot)

Compiled by SEMA Editors

WELD Racing has picked up the class sponsorship for the Cobra/Terminator vs. GT500 Shootout.

Win a $4,000 Product Certificate From WELD Racing in Cobra vs. Shelby GT500 Shootout

The Cobra/Terminator vs. GT500 Shootout at the NMRA Nitto Tire All-Ford World Finals happens at Beech Bend Raceway, September 27–30, and this year, WELD Racing has picked up the class sponsorship. A product certificate for a set of Weld wheels has been added to the top prize—worth up to $4,000. The Cobra/Terminator vs. GT500 Shootout is open to any stock-appearing, VIN-verified ’96–’04 SVT Cobra or ’07–’14 Shelby GT500 with a 4.6L, 5.4L or 5.8L Modular engine. The OEM chassis must remain, but bolt-on modifications are permitted along with any street- or race-style rear tires.

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