By SEMA Editors

BMW released the third generation of the X1 in June last year and its next-generation X2, codenamed U10, is expected to follow suit with production of the '24 model slated for November 2023. SEMA News partner sources have captured images of the M35i variant leaving the company's testing facility near Nürburgring, Germany, and shots show the next-generation X2 will follow a completely different formula with a less hatchlike and smaller body, similar to the sportier BMW X4.

As has been the case with the outgoing vehicle, the newcomer will share its front-wheel-drive-based architecture with a host of compact BMW models.

Unlike Mercedes-Benz, which builds separate EV and internal combustion engine (ICE) models with dedicated platforms, BMW prefers a common architecture with many shared design traits. As such, the '24 X2 and the iX2 will both ride on the FAAR scalable platform.

It's expected that the new X2 will borrow the full engine list of the '23 X1, which means ICE versions will again be topped by the X2 M35i, whose 2.0L turbo-four should deliver 300 hp or more. This will fall in the xDrive (AWD) part of the range.

For the electrification, the iX1 will spawn an iX2, with BMW presumingly maintaining the two power levels, namely the single-motor eDrive20 (FWD) and the dual-motor xDrive30 (AWD). The iX2 should become BMW's first all-electric crossover coupe.

By SEMA Editors

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Extreme E have signed an agreement setting out a framework to create the first-ever hydrogen off-road racing world championship named Extreme H.

The series will become classified as an FIA championship beginning in 2025 and an FIA world championship in 2026, based on unspecified details of the agreement.

Extreme H will join the company of just seven other official FIA World Championships, which include the FIA Formula One World Championship, FIA World Rally Championship, FIA World Rallycross Championship, FIA World Endurance Championship, FIA Karting World Championship, FIA World Rally-Raid Championship and ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. 

In addition, the pathway outlines that Extreme E, currently classified as an FIA international series, would be recognized as an FIA championship in 2024. Extreme E is the international off-road racing series that uses spec silhouette electric SUVs to race in remote parts of the world, and has been pivotal in the launch of Extreme H.

In related news, the Extreme H prototype is expected to launch later this year, ahead of the first season in 2025.

For more information, visit Extreme-E.com.

King Engine Bearings Adds Stacey Stone as Technical Sales Specialist

King Engine Bearings, the global manufacturer of high-quality engine bearings, has announced the addition of Stacey Stone as a technical sales specialist. 

He will handle sales support, customer training and business development.

With more than two decades of involvement in the automotive aftermarket, including nearly 20 years of experience in piston technical sales, Stone brings experience in the powertrain industry with a focus on engine parts.

"We are thrilled to welcome Stacey Stone as a key member of our sales team," said Limor Karpatkin, vice president of sales at King Engine Bearings. "Stacey's extensive background in internal engine parts aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering innovative and reliable solutions to our customers."

Stone will provide support to customers, deliver training programs and foster strategic business partnerships.

For more information, visit kingbearings.com.

For additional racing news, visit performanceracing.com/industry-news.

By SEMA Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

Livernois Motorsports and Engineering

Sales Associate in Dearborn Heights, Michigan

Livernois Motorsports and Engineering is seeking a sales associate with top-notch customer service skills to be professional and courteous when handling customers over the phone, in person and on social media, among additional duties.

LIQUI MOLY, USA

Regional Sales Manager in Jacksonville, Florida

Regional Sales Manager in Southwest Houston, Texas

LIQUI MOLY USA's new sales managers will be responsible for developing sales strategies and increasing the company's overall sales, building new and maintaining existing business relationships and related duties.

AFCO Performance Group

Racing Shock Absorber Designer in Boonville, Indiana

Among additional duties, AFCO Performance Group's new racing shock absorber designer will develop cutting-edge shock absorbers for various motorsports applications and collaborate with a team of talented engineers and technicians.

For more information, including how to apply for jobs or to post job listings, visit the SEMA Career Center.

By SEMA Editors

There are eight weeks until the aftermarket industry converges in Las Vegas for the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3. As exhibitors gear up to connect with a projected 160,000 buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, here's a list of key deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of all of the deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, which are also detailed below.

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Placing Freeman orders before the Thursday, September 28 discount deadline, which offers prices up to 40% off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show. Our partners at Freeman are here to help answer any questions about preparing for the SEMA Show and maximizing savings. Email sema@freeman.com or call 888-508-5054 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PDT) to connect directly.

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists. 

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

• September 8: Celebrity Appearances Notification (to be included in printed Show material).
• September 8: Booth Vehicle Display Application due (for vehicles displayed in the booth).
• September 15: Sponsorship Artwork/Materials due to Freeman.
• September 18: Lead retrieval rental (advanced rate)--CompuSystems.
• September 26: Freight-Freeman Warehouse--first day to accept advance freight.
• September 28: Freeman Discount Deadline--Various Freeman services, including audio-visual and computers; carpet and booth cleaning order; credit card authorization/method of payment; electrical; accessories (advanced rate); furnishings (advanced rate); first-time exhibitor booth package; labor for hanging signage/banner; labor for installation/dismantle; payment authorization form; rental exhibit order (advanced rate); third party payment authorization; utilities; internet/telephone.
• September 29: Exhibitor registration is due for domestic guests (to receive badges in the mail) at semashow.com/register.
• October 6: New Products Entry (advanced rate).
• October 6: Products for Product-Vehicle Builders.
• October 6: Exhibitor Booth Insurance (if purchased from Risk-strategies/Buttine).
• October 6: EAC/Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor Application Form.
• October 6: EAC/Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor Proof of Insurance Deadline.
• October 13: Shipping of Carpet to Advance Warehouse--CARPET/PAD only. 
• October 13: After-Hours Events.
• October 13: After-Hours Event--Proof of Security (Required if having an after-hours event). 
• October 13: Meeting/Function space reservation.
• October 16: Booth Catering Order Service--CENTERPLATE.
• October 18: Tents/Canopies--Full Circle Events.
• October 18: Freight--Last day freight will be accepted at the warehouse without penalty.
• October 19: Hanging sign/banner shipments to advance Freeman Warehouse.
• October 19: New Product Showcase advance shipments to Freeman Warehouse.

By SEMA Editors

In partnership with Ford Motor Company, SEMA Garage is excited to announce a measuring session for the newly designed '24 Ford Mustang. The event will allow SEMA members to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have a close-up experience with select models of this vehicle. 

Featured vehicle models: 

• Mustang GT Coupe Premium 
• Mustang Ecoboost Convertible Premium  
• Mustang Mach-E GT AWD 

 SEMA Garage Detroit  

(View on Google Maps)

September 25-28, 2023

RSVP for SEMA Garage Detroit here.

 Contact measuringsessions@sema.org for additional information.*

*Due to high demand, all submissions will be subject to approval by Ford.

For SEMA members located closer to Southern California, there is an alternative opportunity:

SEMA Garage Diamond Bar

(View on Google Maps)

September 11-14, 2023 

RSVP for SEMA Garage Diamond Bar here.

By Juan Torres

The 2023 SEMA Show New Products Showcase, the world's largest display of new automotive aftermarket products, is relocating to the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Accessible exclusively to SEMA Showgoers during the October 31-November 3 trade show, the New Products Showcase is the top buyer and media destination and serves as a one-stop shop to easily discover thousands of the hottest products in the industry.

"The New Products Showcase is the most comprehensive collection of what is coming next in the automotive industry, providing attendees a virtual glimpse into the future of the market," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "It is where SEMA Show attendees can also envision how to utilize the latest products and services in their own businesses by learning details about the products, including the exhibitor's booth number, so they connect directly with the manufacturer on the Show floor. Exhibitors can maximize their ROI by participating in the New Products Showcase, which results in increased brand exposure and more visitors to their booths."

All SEMA Show exhibitors qualify to submit one New Products Showcase entry at no cost, and they can enter additional products at a cost of $95 before October 6 and $150 after. There is no limit to the number of entries a company can submit (learn more and get involved at semashow.com/newproducts).

All New Products Showcase entries receive the added benefit of being featured in SEMA News, listed in the SEMA Show app and possibly winning multiple Best New Product awards, which are presented in 18 categories, including electric vehicle (EV) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), during the official SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast on Tuesday, October 31.

"The New Products Showcase provides exhibitors a great opportunity to generate leads and exposure for very little cost, especially if they take advantage of early deadlines," added SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "Having access to thousands of products in one location makes trend-spotting easy for buyers and media. Plus, our mobile app allows attendees to 'favorite' products so they can maximize their time at the Show and use the app as a year-round resource. It is like putting the future in your pocket."

Register for the SEMA Show

The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry. It is the place where professionals come to connect with product experts from the exhibiting companies for quality one-on-one discussions, demos, and presentations.

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as cost-effective as possible for all. Registration is $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date. 

Registering early allows attendees to take advantage of the best rates and receive all the necessary information for planning their SEMA Show experience. Early registration also ensures that attendees will receive their badges in the mail before this year's event. 

Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!

To learn more or to register to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. 

By SEMA Editors

Tickets are now available for SEMA Fest, the inaugural, two-day outdoor festival to be held Friday, November 3-Saturday, November 4, 12:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds in Las Vegas, and SEMA has officially opened sponsorship opportunities for industry members to get involved and connect with consumers like never before.  

Companies can now secure their part of the exclusive SEMA Fest Marketplace--which is expected to provide access to more than 30,000 music and motorsports enthusiasts (and potential new customers)--across two days in a one-of-a-kind festival setting. Industry businesses wishing to participate in the SEMA Fest Marketplace can submit an Exhibit Space Application here.

In addition, organizers are also providing several types of sponsorship activations. But hurry, space is limited for these unique programs! If you're interested in SEMA Fest sponsorship opportunities, contact our dedicated representative at partnership@semafest.com.

How to Display Your Vehicle at SEMA Fest

Displaying your vehicle at SEMA Fest is another effective way to interact with enthusiasts of various levels and genres. Simply select "Display My Vehicle" in the ticketing options. All vehicles entered will be placed on a waitlist until the car is reviewed and approved. Vehicle displays do not require exhibitor sponsorship and include one (1) general admission ticket to the festival.

Additional key points regarding show vehicles include:  

• Approved vehicle owners will be advised by September 22 when their vehicle will need to arrive for check-in on either Wednesday, November 1, or Thursday, November 2, for placement at SEMA Fest. 
• SEMA Fest Management will provide a schedule for when vehicles may depart the Festival Grounds after the event, Saturday night or Sunday morning, November 5. 
• Vehicles that arrive late for check-in will not be placed. 
• No refunds will be issued to vehicles that arrive late or cancel 
• Vehicles displayed at SEMA Fest will not be eligible to compete in Battle of the Builders. 
• Vehicles displayed at the SEMA Show will not be able to display at SEMA Fest. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit semafest.com.   

By SEMA Editors

Temecula, California-based EngineLabs, a resource for high-performance engine technology, has announced its 2023 Engine Build Giveaway, which will include a special SEMA Show feature event leading up to the PRI Show, December 7-9, in downtown Indianapolis. 

The giveaway engine is a Whipple supercharged 426ci Gen III Hemi, slated to make 1,200 hp. The engine will be built in real-time at the PRI Show by renowned builders Late Model Engines with support from presenting sponsor Summit Racing Equipment. 

"We are extremely excited to be working with Late Model Engines and Summit Racing once again to build an engine on the PRI Show floor," said Greg Acosta, editor of EngineLabs. "While we're sticking with our friends (LME) for the build, we're shaking things up this year by building a Gen-III Hemi with a Whipple twin-screw supercharger. That's three totally different engine combinations with three totally different power adders in three years, for anyone keeping score."

Once live, entries for the giveaway will be accepted online at enginelabsgiveaway.com. In addition, each initial entry received at the trade shows will earn participants $5 Summit Bucks for use online at SummitRacing.com.

"Summit Racing Equipment is pleased to once again partner with Power Automedia in this engine giveaway. The iconic Hemi is the perfect powerplant for this big horsepower build, and we look forward to watching it all come together live at PRI," explained Al Noe, Summit Racing Equipment's chief marketing officer. "Summit Racing Equipment carries a full range of parts and accessories for the Gen 3 Hemi, which includes our Summit Racing Pro Hemi performance parts. We look forward to meeting the winner and being a trusted source for parts, installation tools and anything else needed to maintain the engine for years to come." 

The winner will be announced in April 2024. To stay up-to-date with the giveaway, follow along at EngineLabs.com and the Power + Performance YouTube channel for content on the build, dyno test and giveaway.  

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program. Apply here.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list features SEMA Show exhibitor product offers and contact information for builders looking to collaborate.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly. With each project vehicle required to be supported by a current 2023 SEMA Show exhibitor, all product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2023 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form.

Builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2023 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. For verification purposes, the Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2023 SEMA Show.

By the SEMA D.C. office

In a joint letter to the Los Angeles and Long Beach mayors, SEMA and a coalition of industry and labor organizations have strongly opposed the South Coast Air Quality Management District's (SCAQMD) proposed Indirect Source Rule (ISR). The proposed ISR aims to impose volume caps on port activities, thereby limiting the import and export of goods from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. This rule would cause substantial damage to the local and national economy by hampering the delivery of crucial goods, like auto parts.  

The ISR, if implemented, would also have significant repercussions on various fronts, including jobs, supply chains, the economy, emissions reduction efforts, and the competitiveness of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. 

Click here to read a copy of the letter from SEMA to the Los Angeles and Long Beach mayors. 

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Director, State Government Affairs & Grassroots Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.