By SEMA News Editors

WIMNA and Parity Announce 'Women With Drive Miami' Event

Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) and Parity, the sports marketing and sponsorship platform dedicated to closing the gender income and opportunity gap in professional sports, are teaming up to host the Women with Drive Miami event ahead of the F1 Miami Grand Prix. 

The event will feature a reception and panel discussion to celebrate industry trailblazers on Friday, May 3, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The panel will focus on women as leaders and competitors in society and motorsports and feature 2023 Porsche Sprint Challenge Champion Ashley Freiberg, 2023 F1 Academy Champion Marta García, Chief Diversity Officer for Seminole Hard Rock Stephanie Piimuana, and motorsports legend Lyn St. James, with Parity CEO Leela Srinivasan moderating. The discussion will cover current issues and opportunities for a more diverse and inclusive motorsports industry.

For more information, visit womeninmotorsportsna.com. 

Jaguar Commits to Formula E GEN4 Era

Jaguar, the England-based vehicle manufacturer, has committed to the FIA's Formula E World Championship forthcoming GEN4 platform, solidifying its role in the series until 2030.

The new GEN4 platform will offer improvements to energy efficiency, race performance, and safety standards, according to Formula E, and will introduce new features such as regeneration capacity up to 700kW and a power output surge up to 600kW.

For more information, see the full announcement on fiaformulae.com.

Formula 1 Mulls Change to Championship Points, Launches U.S. Streaming Channel

The Formula 1 Commission has discussed changes to its championship points allocation system during its second 2024 meeting, according to the series, with a proposal for changes slated to be presented to the Commission later this year.

The group, led by FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, also discussed 2025 preseason testing dates and venues, as well as the introduction of rear-facing cameras. 

For the full wrap-up, click here.

Additionally, Formula 1 is launching a new, subscription-free streaming channel in the United States ahead of next month's Miami Grand Prix. 

Available on services including Samsung TV Plus, Amazon Freevee, and Pluto TV, Formula 1 Channel will show F1, F2, F3, and F1 Academy race replays and highlights, full reruns of classic Grands Prix, and racing documentaries. 

For more information, see the full announcement on formula1.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Volunteers are essential to SEMA and the industry throughout the year, assisting SEMA staff with many of the member benefits that the association offers. From planning and executing programs to developing solutions to market-specific challenges, volunteers work diligently to benefit the automotive aftermarket community.

In celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 21-27), SEMA is proud to honor its volunteers who give so much to the industry. It's through their time, passion and knowledge that SEMA, as a trade association, can fulfill its mission to help its business members succeed and prosper. 

"Many of the programs that SEMA offers would not exist without our volunteers," said Zane Clark, SEMA vice president of membership, education, research and councils. "We are extremely grateful for their contributions, whether that be through one of our nine council and network communities, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, our charity arm SEMA Cares or being involved in our legislative efforts."  

Key programs led by volunteers that have flourished in the past year include the Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program for aspiring aftermarket leaders held in partnership with Dale Carnegie Training, the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Cup Challenge competition at the SEMA Show for automotive restylers, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum and the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)/Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Career Fair for students pursuing careers in the automotive field. These events not only raised awareness of the various industry segments and career opportunities available but also helped industry members elevate their careers and businesses.   

SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) volunteers promoted the hot-rod and automotive restoration markets at consumer-driven events. HRIA volunteers organized the HRIA Education Days program that educates aftermarket consumers about hot-rod manufacturers' products through educational seminars at the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) Street Rod Nationals. ARMO volunteers hosted their ARMO Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle, raising awareness of 81 products from ARMO member companies in a high-traffic area of the event. Both of these programs allowed manufacturers the opportunity to gain exposure of their brand and educate the industry about their product offerings. 

Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) volunteers are expanding the diversity of East Coast media and manufacturers who attend the MPMC Media Trade Conference, announcing that the event is relocating from Los Angeles, California, to Orlando, Florida, in 2025. The conference is a staple program that makes it easy for motorsports manufacturers to share detailed information about their products with journalists, editors, writers, podcasters, content creators and social-media influencers.

Volunteers of the newly rebranded Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC)--previously the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC)--hosted monthly Coffee & Conversation events over the past year, offering industry members a convenient, online platform to discuss industry opportunities and expand their professional network. Volunteers led discussions on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), legislative changes, new vehicle technology and more. "The discussion is short and packed with nuggets to help most anyone connected in the business," said Kelly Austin of 9six9 Wheels. 

Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) volunteers showcased the diverse truck and off-road industry landscape through its TORA feature vehicle program at the 2023 SEMA Show. The program highlighted 10 vehicle builds from TORA member companies in a premier Show location, highlighting the unique ways that aftermarket products and technologies can be used.  

SEMA Cares volunteers continue to make a positive impact beyond the automotive community, raising $138,064.33 in 2023 to benefit its partnering children's charities: Austin Hatcher Foundation for pediatric cancer; Childhelp for the prevention and treatment of child abuse; and Victory Junction camp for children with serious medical conditions and illnesses. By incorporating the joy of automotive into fun activities and fundraising, SEMA Cares volunteers are able to give young minds a very important relief from hard circumstances, even if only for a brief moment.

During National Volunteer Appreciation Week, SEMA extends its gratitude to all volunteers who continue to make a difference in the industry and the lives of others. For information on how to volunteer for SEMA councils and networks, fill out the council inquiry form. To learn more about volunteering for SEMA Cares, visit sema.org/sema-cares. 

By SEMA News Editors

Hotel reservations are open online here for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. 

Stay at the Golden Nugget for an average of just $150 per night. Or, book rooms at several additional properties around Vegas offering SEMA Showgoers the best possible rates through onPeak.

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Booking a 2024 SEMA Show hotel provides unparalleled benefits, including the ability to:  

• Guaranteed Lowest Rates: Booking through the SEMA block guarantees our Showgoers the lowest rates in Las Vegas during the SEMA Show.
• Earn Hotel Rewards Points: We know how important and valuable your hotel rewards points can be and how quickly they can add up when you travel to events and trade shows. That's why your reservation at an official hotel counts towards your hotel loyalty program. Simply enter your rewards number when securing your reservation, and you're all set. The benefits are endless when you book in the SEMA Show block!
• Access Fully Flexible Booking: We know plans change, so that's why there are no change fees and no full pre-payment required at the time of booking, unlike most other booking channels. You can make changes or cancel your reservation without penalty until October 10, 2024. There's no downside to booking today!
• Access Easy Group Bookings: Book your entire group--large or small--in real-time with immediate confirmations. Nab the rooms you need now and log in later to assign specific guests. Rooms can be selected based on your team's specific nights and stay patterns, and you can manage payment for your whole block or guarantee each room with separate credit cards--it's that easy. 
• Source A Sustainable Hotel Stay: onPeak is available to help you feel confident about living a sustainable lifestyle. View Las Vegas hotel's sustainability plans on the onPeak website at onpeak.com/sustainability and read up on a few helpful travel tips at blog.onpeak.com. 

Securing housing is just one of the first steps on the road to the 2024 SEMA Show. Attendee and media registration opens on Monday, April 29, and the SEMA Show Exhibitor Services Manual and additional exhibitor resources will also go live on Monday, April 29.  

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show and SEMA Fest. 

By SEMA News Editors

Registration is open for this year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, July 24-25, Las Vegas, West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The valuable event is organized by SEMA Show management for exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas. Registration is available for up to two company representatives who want to take advantage of this complimentary program, and SEMA will provide housing and several meals during the event.

While undoubtedly valuable for first-time exhibitors, the Summit is also geared toward returning and long-time exhibitors of the SEMA Show. If you think you "know it all" about the Show, you'd be surprised by how much relevant business-boosting information is distributed during the program. Just take it from the industry staple Caliber Products, which manufactures precision-engineered trailer accessories and exhibits in the Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road category at the SEMA Show.

"Attending the SEMA Exhibitors Summit has been a game-changer for us. The networking opportunities are unmatched, allowing us to forge valuable partnerships and secure media coverage for our new products. The Summit's emphasis on showcasing innovation has helped our brand stand out, even leading to recognition with a prestigious SEMA New Product Award," said Zach Eyman of Caliber. "Plus, the educational sessions have empowered Caliber to navigate the industry landscape with confidence. If you're serious about launching new products and maximizing your brand's visibility, the SEMA Exhibitors Summit is a must-attend event."

Indeed, the road to the SEMA Show begins with the Exhibitor Summit, the education-packed program featuring everything a company needs to deliver the best ROI from its SEMA Show experience. 

This year's Summit, now in the Las Vegas Convention Center's West Hall, will feature new-for-2024 information straight from the people responsible for the industry-topping automotive specialty-equipment trade show.

The SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit is the best way to learn how to:

• Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
• Use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth.
• Save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses.
• Work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI.
• Learn to plan appropriately and budget expenses.
• Explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods.

Register for the 2024 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit here. For more information, visit semashow.com/exhibitor-summit. Note: You are officially registered once you receive a confirmation email from the SEMA Show staff.

2024 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit
(Complimentary for all 2024 exhibitors; hotel and several meals provided by SEMA.)
July 24-25, 2024
West Hall Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
Register here.

Exhibitors: Submit your ESRA application online today (more exhibitor resources here). And, hotel reservations for the 2024 SEMA Show are open online here. Attendee and media registration opens on Monday, April 29.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show.

By SEMA News Editors

The Society for the Advancement of Material & Process Engineering (SAMPE) is offering SEMA members an exclusive 10% discount to attend the annual Expo and Conference, May 20-23, in Long Beach, California.

Join thousands of industry partners at SAMPE's premier event, where new and innovative materials and business solutions take center stage. Engage directly with domestic and international buyers, manufacturers and suppliers across diverse sectors such as aerospace/aircraft, automotive, marine, energy and more.

SAMPE's conference is the ultimate showroom for advanced materials and processes, bringing together gearheads, technicians, executives, engineers, scientists, students and professionals shaping the future of materials innovation. 

Why Attend SAMPE?

• Keynote Speaker: Stephen Heinz of Syensqo Composite Materials Division.
• Hydrogen Workshop: Co-sponsored with the Dept. of Energy, this workshop will inform attendees about using fiber-reinforced composites in hydrogen applications, including use in fuel-cell technologies, hydrogen storage tanks and much more.
• Additive Manufacturing Track: Buckle up for a full day of education sessions devoted to additive manufacturing.
• Technical Presentation Tracks: SEMA members will find many topics to fuel their thirst for knowledge.  

Interested? Go here to learn more and register. Take advantage of the 10% discount by using code "SEMA" when registering, and the discount will be applied to your payment.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Board of Directors Member and CEO of Quadratec Ted Wentz will join the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC) as a guest speaker for the council's upcoming Coffee and Conversation event on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. (PDT).

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations are monthly networking events held online that bring together industry professionals to discuss business opportunities in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake segments. During this session, participants will have an opportunity to engage with Wentz on his expertise on the council's four markets and the Board's strategic initiatives as they relate to the WTSB segment of the industry.

"As the CEO of a well-known off-road parts and accessory retailer and distributor, Wentz understands first-hand many of the issues that aftermarket companies face," said WTSBC Council Director Nicole Bradle. "The knowledge that he shares will be a great benefit to our members and we are excited to welcome him for what will be an engaging conversation."

While the discussion will focus on Wentz's expertise, attendees will still have an opportunity to converse with other members, making it the ideal time to grow one's professional network and exchange ideas for business growth. Join the conversation by registering here. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2024 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2024 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 2024 SEMA Show. For more information, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org or call 949-373-9210. 

By SEMA News Editors

Goodyear Names Ryan Waldron Americas Business President

The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company announced that Ryan Waldron has been named president of the company's Americas business unit, reporting to CEO and President Mark Stewart. He succeeds Steven R. McClellan, who retired on April 1.

Waldron joined Goodyear in 2003 and served in leadership roles in finance and supply chain for multiple North America business areas. In 2012, he was named vice president, supply chain, logistics and procurement, then served as vice president, sales operations and strategy; vice president, business and process integration; and vice president, global off-highway businesses and chemical operations. Most recently, Waldron served as president of Goodyear's North America consumer business.

For more information, visit goodyear.com.

Tim Erdmann Named NHRA Vice President of Finance

The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) has named Tim Erdmann as its new vice president of finance.

Erdmann is based out of NHRA's San Dimas, California, office and has been the NHRA senior director of finance since 2020. He was hired by NHRA in 2019, first serving as an NHRA business manager.

As NHRA’s vice president of finance, Erdmann will oversee the organization's payroll, accounting, and finance departments.

For more information, visit nhra.com.

Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

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

EGR USA

Product Development Manager in Ontario, California.

EGR USA is looking for a product development manager to join its global product development department to lead the U.S. team. This role will have responsibility for project managing new products from conception to production, working with product development team members across our global locations, and overseeing the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to production and sustained launch.

Oracle Lighting

Brand Strategist in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The aftermarket lighting manufacturer is seeking a brand manager/brand strategist to manage its social-media networks. The duties include creating and updating social-media schedules, replying to comments from subscribers or liking tagged photos and collaborating with other team members to determine how to market the brand and products by using social-media platforms. The brand strategist will also manage the ambassador and sponsorship program.

ARB

Northwest Sales Manager in Seattle, Washington, or Remote.

The northwest sales manager will play a key role in the success of ARB's North American business development strategy. This position is responsible for identifying, pursuing and securing new sales opportunities within the Northwest territory and advancing the annual sales goals of established dealer accounts. This position is eligible for remote work in either Washington or Oregon and will manage sales in Washington, Oregon, Alaska and Western Canada.

By SEMA News Editors

IROC Plans Return at Lime Rock Park

IROC Holdings, the rights holder to the International Race of Champions (IROC) brand, will hold the first IROC event in nearly 20 years as part of the SpeedTour All-Star Race weekend at Lime Rock Park on July 19-20.

IROC (International Race of Champions) is a series that held races from 1973 to 2006, which brought together drivers from all forms of motorsport to race identical cars on historic tracks. NASCAR Hall-of-Famer Ray Evernham and former NASCAR Cup Series team owner and venture capitalist Rob Kauffman founded IROC Holdings and acquired the rights to the IROC brand earlier this year.

The IROC event at Lime Rock Park will feature original IROC race cars on track and on display throughout the weekend, including nearly every generation of IROC race cars, with many being driven by former IROC drivers. The IROC paddock will feature appearances by some of the original IROC racers, Q&A sessions, and IROC-branded merchandise.

IROC has also opened entry applications for anyone who owns IROC race cars and would like to display or drive in the event.

For more information, visit iroc-racing.com.

NASCAR Sets Format for All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway

NASCAR and Speedway Motorsports have announced details for the 2024 NASCAR All-Star Race to be held on Sunday, May 19, at the newly paved North Wilkesboro Speedway.

The event will include two heat races to set the All-Star Race starting lineup, a 100-lap All-Star Open, and a 200-lap main event, which will debut several new features including a tire strategy element, a new Qualifying/Pit Crew Challenge format and pitting requirements.

The primary new element in the format centers around tire type and allotment. Potentially, three different tires will be utilized throughout the event weekend: a "prime tire" (the baseline tire), an "option tire" (slick tires, but made with the same rubber as the wet weather tire, making it a softer tire with more grip and faster wear) and "wet weather" (the wet weather tire only used if the track is wet). The 'Goodyear Eagle' lettering will be yellow on the prime tires, red on the option tires, and white on the wet-weather tires.

For more details, read the full announcement here.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com.