By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has proposed new rules that will affect businesses in the specialty-automotive market distribution chain, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers and out-of-state companies selling products in California.  

OEHHA has proposed new Proposition 65 rules in regard to short-form warnings, which would require all short-form warnings to include at least one chemical on the label. This is a significant change from the current regulations, which allow businesses to use a generic short-form warning that does not identify any specific chemicals. (See more details on Prop 65 and what the proposed rules mean for businesses below). 

The proposed rules also include several other changes, including:  

• Removing the size and shape restrictions for short-form warnings. 
• Allowing short-form warnings to be used on the internet and catalog sales. 
• Requiring businesses to sell through existing inventory with current short-form warnings for two years after the new rules go into effect. 

OEHHA is holding a public hearing on the proposed rules on December 13, 2023. The public comment deadline is December 20, 2023. (Visit here to submit comments in just a few clicks.) 

Proposal for New Motor Vehicle Parts Warnings 

OEHHA also proposes new Prop 65 warnings for passenger or off-highway motor vehicle parts sold at retail establishments, on the internet and through electronic or printed catalogs. The proposed regulations would allow businesses to use a tailored safe harbor warning that includes the following language: 

The tailored warning is designed to be more specific to the risks associated with passenger and off-highway motor vehicle parts. It also includes specific recommendations for how consumers can minimize their exposure to these risks. Note that the proposed definition of passenger or off-highway motor vehicle part does not include "packaged service chemicals, tires, parts containing asbestos, carpeting, upholstery including fillings and coverings, textiles or fabrics." 

Two chemicals are frequent Prop 65 targets for the specialty-automotive market: lead in brass parts and DEHP, the latter which is a phthalate used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plastics to make them softer, more flexible and durable. Phthalates are used in various products from pipes to plastic wraps, artificial leather, electrical wire insulation and adhesives. 

History of Proposition 65 

Proposition 65 was a ballot initiative enacted by California voters in 1986. The law requires warning labels on products containing chemicals listed as known to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. Today, there are more than 900 chemicals on the list. Prop 65 doesn't stop businesses from selling their products--it is simply a law that requires consumer warning labels under certain circumstances. 

Businesses with 10 employees or more that do business in California must comply with Prop 65. The warning requirement applies to any business in the distribution chain, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and out-of-state companies selling products in California. 

What the Proposed Prop 65 Rules Would Mean for Today's Businesses 

In regard to Prop 65, the California Attorney General or a district attorney can pursue enforcement. However, most suits are brought by private parties claiming to be "acting in the public interest," who will then receive a portion of the fine or settlement ultimately assessed on the alleged violator. Under the law, fines can run up to $2,500 per day per violation. 

In January 2021, OEHHA proposed significant revisions to Proposition 65's short-form warning, a proposal that SEMA opposed and officially submitted comments to OEHHA along with dozens of other companies and organizations. Following a review of public comments, OEHHA revised the proposal in December 2021 and again in April 2022. However, OEHHA did not complete the regulatory process for its proposed amendments within the allotted time and allowed the rulemaking to lapse.  

The business community worked with OEHHA for several years to develop the current regulations that took effect in 2018. Companies subsequently invested significant resources in updating stakeholders and product labels, websites and catalogs. Changes to the short-form warning would negate those efforts for many companies. 

For more information, contact SEMA's Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Autumn Schwalbe, Ford Performance Parts Planner and Specialist at Ford Motor Company, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. Get to know Schwalbe and how her passion for vehicles has boosted her career in the SEMA News interview below.  

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company, and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Ford Performance Parts Planner and Specialist Autumn Schwalbe: I've been with Ford full-time for three years, and I've also had three summer internships with them. I love working with great people and all the Ford Performance vehicles. 

SEMA News: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

AS: The most challenging part has been learning a whole new side of the automotive industry. I knew the basics about chassis, and now I'm working as a chassis parts specialist and planner. It has been a challenge to learn everything, but I also have a huge desire to learn new things. 

SN: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job?  

AS: Seven years--my first job was at the Ford Performance Info Center/Tech Line, answering phone calls to answer questions regarding Ford Performance vehicles and parts. I also attended events as a product specialist. 

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

AS: Passion, determination and work ethic, these qualities have helped me stand out from others my age. I have worked very hard to get to where I am, and my passion shines through when others don't have a passion for vehicles and racing. 

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?   

AS: Being a woman is very hard in a male-dominated industry, but it pushes me to step out of my comfort zone. Sometimes, I am questioned, but I bring a new and fresh perspective to my role. 

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?   

AS: My role models are Jeannee Kirkaldy with Ford Performance Motorsports, Natalie Simon with Ford Performance Parts and Nicole McElroy with RECARO; they have all guided me and gave me amazing advice. 

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

AS: Do what you love, and it will never feel like work. I continue to go on a path that isn't normal at Ford Motor Company. I follow my passion for motorsports and performance. 

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?  

AS: Yes, I knew I wanted to work in the industry. The amazing people and vehicles keep me here. My passion is automotive marketing and working events. I love the customers and showing girls and women that they can also work in the industry! 

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?  

AS: My best friend Amanda Sorenson. She has helped me and even helped me celebrate my career milestones and goals. 

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.   

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA's Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Terry Payne, CEO of RDMBUILDS, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Payne and his passion for restyling in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling? 

RDMBUILDS CEO Terry Payne: The endless possibilities of creation to the automotive world.  

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO? 

TP: I wanted to be with the best and learn.  

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket? 

TP: Dream; don't follow the others and be unique. 

SN: What is your dream vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend? 

TP: My dream vehicle is a Ford Cyclone GT. You would find me at a car show.   

SN: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

TP: From George Barris--dream your dream, not everybody else's. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

TP: My commitment to be the best at it. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

TP: Usually at a car event with my wife.  

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA's Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) has named Classic Recreations as the council's newest spotlight member. Get to know how this car builder rose to prominence in the industry with the SEMA News interview with Classic Recreations' Operations Manager Sean Swayer below.  

SEMA News: Tell us the story of your business. How did you start? 

Classic Recreations Operations Manager Sean Sawyer: Classic Recreations started 18 years ago in Oklahoma City. The current ownership purchased it in 2020, one week before COVID shut the world down. After purchase, the new owner relocated the company to Flower Mound, Texas, and centralized it into one large facility. 

The owners have spent the last three years dealing with COVID-related manufacturing delays while turning the company into a modern manufacturing business. 

SN: Tell us about your business now and the projects that you are working on. 

SS: We are known for our Shelby Licensed Carbon Fiber-bodied '67 and '68 Mustangs, many supercharged. We also build Ford Licensed Boss 429 and Mach 1 recreations, as well as '65 and '66 Shelby GT350CR models. 

SN: Tell us about a particular project, product or build you are proud of. 

SS: We are currently building the prototype for the 60th Anniversary Shelby Cobra on a full race chassis and Carbon fiber body. We plan to build 10 of them. 

SN: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive restoration segment? 

SS: In addition to learning your trade, get an education in business. This industry is populated by small businesses, and there are too many owners that have talent for the work but not talent for the business. 

Fill out an ARMO-member spotlight form to highlight how your company is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on ARMO's social media, SEMA News and future ARMO-member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources have spotted camouflaged performance versions of the Mercedes CLE Convertible and Mercedes CLE Coupe in Germany, believed to be the new AMG 53 and AMG 63 variants. Photographers captured the cars in action, sporting a few aggressive design elements you won't find on the standard CLE-Class that debuted earlier this year, which replaced the coupe and convertible versions of the C-Class and E-Class.

The camouflaged Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 seen here is expected to provide a more spirited driving experience than the entry-level versions.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is expected to provide a more spirited driving experience than the entry-level CLE 300 4Matic and CLE 450 4Matic. The 450 is already powered by a turbocharged inline-six, but it only produces 375hp.

Exterior-wise, the alleged Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 features blacked-out trim and the Panamericana grille, which is only bolted to the front of AMG-badged vehicles. The lesser CLE models are adorned with chrome trimmings for a more elegant appearance.

Rumors suggest the AMG 53 will be powered by a more powerful version of the 3.0L M 256 turbocharged mild-hybrid inline-six found in the CLE 450. It could produce the same 429hp as other models equipped with the 53 badge, a 54hp increase over the 450. The 53 also has a quad-exhaust setup with circular tips.

The camouflaged Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 seen here is expected to allow Mercedes-Benz to field a rival to the BMW M4 and Audi RS5.

The AMG 63 variant, on the other hand, will allow Mercedes-Benz to field a rival to the BMW M4 and Audi RS5. It also features the squared-off quad exhaust outlets seen on AMG 63 models and appears to have bigger brakes and a wider track compared with previously spied prototypes.

By SEMA News Editors

Ford Performance in Dearborn, Michigan, has unveiled the new Mustang for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series based on the Mustang Dark Horse.

Based on the seventh-generation Mustang, this Dark Horse version adds to the lineup of racing Mustangs, and means that starting in 2024, Mustang will be eligible to race on six continents.

"What a crazy year it has been revealing our new global Mustangs for racing. The positive response from our fans around the world has been amazing, and we’re confident that this Mustang Dark Horse Cup car will be no different and that NASCAR fans will be excited to cheer us on next year," said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “Our Ford Performance staff, together with our NASCAR race teams, have worked tirelessly in the wind tunnel developing this car, and I can’t wait to finally see it race on the track next season.”

Ford unveiled the all-new Mustang Dark Horse just over a year ago, marking the first new performance nameplate for Mustang since 2001. It is the most track-capable 5.0L V8 street-legal Mustang ever and has inspired the current roster of Mustang cars that started racing this year in the Repco Supercars Championship in Australia and Formula Drift series.

In the months ahead, Mustang Dark Horse racing variants will be eligible to compete in GT3 and GT4 classes globally and in addition, Dark Horse R will compete in the Mustang Challenge Series and many grassroots racing events.

The NASCAR Cup Series Mustang Dark Horse will debut on February 4, 2024, as part of the Clash at the Coliseum exhibition race inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

For more racing industry news, visit the PRI website at performanceracing.com/magazine/industry-news.

By SEMA News Editors

LTA Manufacturing has officially launched its new truck topper brand, Venturous Truck Tops, last week at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The first-of-its-kind truck cap solution incorporates the all-new, patent-pending PolyFuse™ Technology to produce a top that is designed to be lighter, stronger and sleeker than traditional truck tops. It is the first major advancement to truck top manufacturing in more than 50 years, the company stated.  

Current truck tops are manufactured with an open-mold system that uses fiberglass and resin mixed with fillers such as calcium carbonate, layered with a cardboard honeycomb in the center. To create an improved, more efficient solution, LTA Manufacturing invented PolyFuse Technology, which uses a closed-mold system in its injection molding process to produce a top that is lighter and stronger and has a higher weight capacity for truck top accessories and roof rack systems.

"This is truly a game-changing solution in a largely traditional market," said Matt Blais, vice president of sales, LTA Manufacturing. "For years, the manufacturing process for truck tops has been the same. The launch of Venturous Truck Tops marks the first time this innovative production technology is being used to create an entirely new type of top."

The PolyFuse technology enables a truck top to be 38% lighter and three-times stronger than other models on the market, as the Venturous top can withstand up to 1,500 lbs. of static weight and up to 750 lbs. dynamic. Additionally, the closed-mold PolyFuse process generates a truck top that is more uniform and more consistent in shape, eliminates air pockets, and reduces the risk of condensation.

Having been specifically designed with outdoor adventures and off-road durability in mind, Venturous Truck Tops are easily customizable to fit the needs of different lifestyles with options and add-ons ranging from increased storage space to increased security.

To learn more, visit venturoustrucktops.com. To find an LTA dealer near you, click here. 

Fisker Names David King Chief Technology Officer

Los Angeles-based Fisker, the company on a mission to create the world's most emotional and sustainable electric vehicles (EVs), has announced that David King has been promoted to chief technology officer. 

King will immediately assume his new role, replacing Dr. Burkhard Huhnke, who will leave the company for personal reasons.

King joined Fisker in 2021 after three decades in the auto industry. As Fisker's senior vice president of engineering, he previously headed up global body engineering, where he oversaw the development and launch of the Ocean body program in Graz, Austria, at Fisker's manufacturing facility. King also supervised UK operations and led Fisker Magic Works, the company's special vehicle division. In this position, he has been leading the development of the Fisker Ronin super GT convertible and the Force-E offroad package for the Fisker Ocean.

As CTO, King will report to Chairman and CEO Henrik Fisker and will lead Fisker's global engineering and software teams in the United States, Europe, India and China.

For more information, visit fiskerinc.com.

Full Race Takes Full Control of Distribution Channels With MidwayPlus

MidwayPlus has announced that Full Race has completed the modernization of its wholesale distribution channels using the MidwayPlus SaaS platform. A brand-new Full Race B2B Storefront on MidwayPlus is designed to deliver a better user experience for their resellers and offers a window into hundreds of new wholesale opportunities that exist in the MidwayPlus marketplace. 

Full Race's partnership with MidwayPlus empowers them to scale their wholesale efforts while maintaining a focus on product development and fulfillment. 

MidwayPlus centralizes all B2B orders through a single portal, controls discounts for all customers, ensures the latest product info is available and provides a marketing channel to customers through the MidwayPlus feed, checking all of the boxes that Full Race required for its B2B strategy without the need to scale their staff.

For more information, visit midwayplus.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), the fastest-growing professional group within SEMA, has announced that the charity auction of its '21 Ford Bronco Wildtrak, built exclusively by female automotive professionals and enthusiasts, had a final winning bid of $59,600. The collaborative effort was a hit at the 2023 SEMA Show, and the week-long bidding war raised awareness for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network and the SEMA Cares charity effort.

The '21 Ford Bronco Wildtrak garnered a lot of attention for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network and SEMA Cares during this year's 2023 SEMA Show.

A diverse group of female volunteers from various sectors of the automotive industry contributed to the project from its inception to its unveiling at the SEMA Show in 2022. Volunteers representing both U.S. coasts and Canada came from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and included veterans, students, multi-generational family duos, including mothers and granddaughters, automotive technicians, racecar drivers and accomplished car-building sisters.

A diverse group of women volunteers from across the continent and various automotive segments came together to build the '21 Ford Bronco Wildtrak to benefit charity.

"This build really highlighted the talent and growing involvement of women in the automotive industry," said Nicole Bradle, SBN council director. "The decision to use this build to give back to the community through SEMA Cares was an easy one, and the positive effect it had on the women who participated and the connections they made will last a lifetime."

SEMA Cares is an organization focused on channeling the dedication and expertise of SEMA association members toward making a positive impact beyond the automotive community. Since its establishment in 2007, SEMA Cares has provided much-needed support and care to children and others in need. By auctioning the all-female-built Bronco this year, it hopes to expand the level of care it can provide in the coming years.

For more information about the SEMA Businesswomen's Network, visit the SBN website.

By Ashley Reyes 

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named James Kovac, wholesale account manager at Diode Dynamics, as the network's newest spotlight member.   

Get to know Kovac in his interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received?    

James Kovac: Follow your passion when looking for a career. Growing up, I figured that working in this industry would be a pipe dream or simply unsustainable. After I graduated, I took a chance at (what was) a small company and have been growing with them ever since! 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

JK: My love of all things automotive. Secondly, being able to contribute product and process suggestions that have a tangible impact on my company's operations. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?    

JK: If I'm not attending an expo or show for work, you can find me working on an endless list of DIY projects for my old house or spending time with friends and family. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?   

JK: Step one, ensure that I am fully caffeinated! Then, I usually dedicate 10 minutes or so to mentally reviewing the subject and objectives of the meeting. I'll make a short list of talking points that need to be hit to ensure nothing is missed. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?    

JK: Lee Iacocca.

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates.   

By SEMA News Editors

The PRI Show, December 7-9 in downtown Indianapolis, provides dozens of conferences, seminars, social gatherings and more events to help the industry share new ideas. Among the activities are networking opportunities and events from the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) and the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC). 

SBN Gear-Up Girl Lunch

Women racing professionals are encouraged to register to share their expertise with students pursuing careers in the motorsports industry at the 2023 PRI Show.

Female racing and aftermarket industry professionals will connect with female students pursuing careers in the motorsports industry at the Gear-Up Girl Lunch powered by SBN on Friday, December 8, 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. EST in Room 208. Reserved only for women, this fun and dynamic event serves as a networking opportunity for professionals to give back and share advice with today's female youth. To RSVP for the Gear-Up Girl Lunch powered by SBN, click here.

FLN and MPMC Networking Reception

On Friday, December 8, from 5:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. EST in the Wabash Ballroom, the FLN and MPMC networking reception will serve as an opportunity to close out day two of the PRI Show while networking with industry friends and colleagues in a relaxed setting. The event features complimentary hot hors d'oeuvres and drinks, and will include the induction of the next MPMC Hall of Fame member. Select committee members will be on-site to answer questions about council and network membership, and limited quantities of SEMA swag will be available too! To RSVP for the reception, click here.

For more information on the 2023 PRI Show, including how to register, visit performanceracing.com/tradeshow.