PRI Hosts Founding Members at DIRTcar Nationals

PRI Founding Members and Legacy Exhibitors were invited to attend the DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park near Barberville, Florida.

PRI Founding Members and Legacy Exhibitors were invited to attend the DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park near Barberville, Florida. PRI and its members were on-hand for the biggest event in DIRTcar racing as the World of Outlaws Late Model Series, All Star Circuit of Champions, Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds, Xtreme Outlaws Sprint Cars, DIRTcar Late Models, and DIRTcar UMP Modifieds took on the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile.”

The PRI Advisory Board was represented by PRI Track Ambassador Tom Deery, and representatives from E3 Spark Plugs, Taktical Solutions, Regis Communications, NASCAR, and MyRacePass were among those in attendance in the PRI Suite. Justin and Rebecca Starkey of VMP Performance in New Smyrna, Florida, were also on-hand.

Ernie Audino, the district director at the office of U.S. Congressman Mike Waltz (FL-6), served as a liaison for the congressman for the event, which was overseen by World Racing Group (WRG) CEO Brian Carter, WRG Executive Director of Events Jeff Hachmann, and Volusia Track Manager James Sawyer. Existing PRI members also received a $5 discount on ticket prices. 

Paul Lee Welcomes New Sponsors for the 2022 Winternationals

Photo credit: SR Driven Media

Paul Lee and his McLeod Racing funny car team will return to the Pomona Fairplex with Mainline Sales Inc., MSI International and BREEN Engineering to kick off the 2022 NHRA Camping World Series. Coming off a strong preseason test session, the Jim Oberhofer- and Dustin Heim-led team look forward to hitting the ground running for the funny car class. Lee, owner of the Wharton Automotive Group (McLeod Racing, FTI Performance, Silver Sport Transmissions) enters his 18th year of Funny Car competition. With the addition of Dustin Heim to the assistant crew chief position and several new crew members who have joined the team over the off-season, pre-season testing showed a glimpse into what the team is capable of for this year.

Extreme E Reveals First Hydrogen Off-Road Racing Championship

Extreme H is the first-of-its-kind series for hydrogen cars and will race on the exact dates and locations as the Extreme E series.

Extreme E, the maker of the all-electric off-road series, will launch an off-road hydrogen championship in 2024. Named Extreme H, the first-of-its-kind series will race on the exact dates and locations as the Extreme E series. The Extreme H car will retain the same powertrain and chassis used in Extreme E, but a hydrogen fuel cell will replace the battery as the principal energy source. Extreme H will feature two categories: full transition or combined racing. Officials plan to launch a prototype vehicle in early 2023. For more information, visit extreme-e.com.

Mercedes Launches New F1 Car

The W13 vehicle was built for the 2022 technical regulations and features narrow sidepods and a rearward-placed engine layout.

Mercedes has revealed the car that Lewis Hamilton and George Russell will drive in this season’s championship. The W13 vehicle was built for the 2022 technical regulations and features narrow sidepods and a rearward-placed engine layout. Mercedes has won the constructors’ title for eight successive seasons, but relinquished the drivers’ championship as Max Verstappen snatched the crown from Hamilton on the final lap of the 2021 season. The W13 will officially launch on March 18–20 for the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. For more information, visit formula1.com.

Grandview Speedway Names New Media Director

Grandview Speedway—the 1/3-mile clay track in Bechtelsville, Pennsylvania—has announced longtime track announcer Jeff Ahlum as its new public relations director. Ahlum replaces Ernie Saxton, who announced his retirement in 2021 following 55 years with the speedway. The track, owned and operated by the Rogers Family, opens its 60th anniversary season on Saturday, April 2, for the VP Racing Fuels Bruce Rogers Memorial Money Maker. For more information, visit grandviewspeedway.com.

Holley High Voltage Experience Returns to Sonoma

The Holley High Voltage Experience is designed for the electric vehicle (EV) community to gather and experience performance on and off track.

Holley has announced the second annual Holley High Voltage Experience will return to Sonoma Raceway July 9–10. The event is designed for the electric vehicle (EV) community to gather and experience performance on and off track. The Holley High Voltage Experience will feature autocross, drag racing, road course action, plus a car show, vendor midway, skidpad and more. Additional details and tickets will be available at a later date. For more information, visit the Facebook event page.

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

Hyundai’s Prophecy concept car will morph into the Ioniq 6 when it finally hits dealers in production form in 2023. As expected, spy shots now prove that the radical design of the Prophecy has been toned down considerably for the Ioniq 6. The interior will still be a stunning place to sit, but the exterior has undergone work and now becomes much more conservative.

The images clearly show that the suicide doors of the concept are certainly not making their way to production and that both the front and rear overhangs have increased in size, presumably because a production car needs more space for things like battery packs and trunk space. These changes likely mean it won't have the same svelte curves as the concept.

Other details we’ve gleaned from previous spy shots include the fact that the Ioniq 6 will feature flush door handles and possibly the retention of the concept’s rear wing, which may or may not house a third brake light. As for performance, there will be two power plants with both single- and dual-motor variants to be offered, the latter of which is likely to produce more than 300 hp.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Hyundai’s Prophecy concept car will morph into the Ioniq 6 when it finally hits dealers in production form in 2023. As expected, spy shots now prove that the radical design of the Prophecy has been toned down considerably for the Ioniq 6. The interior will still be a stunning place to sit, but the exterior has undergone work and now becomes much more conservative.

The images clearly show that the suicide doors of the concept are certainly not making their way to production and that both the front and rear overhangs have increased in size, presumably because a production car needs more space for things like battery packs and trunk space. These changes likely mean it won't have the same svelte curves as the concept.

Other details we’ve gleaned from previous spy shots include the fact that the Ioniq 6 will feature flush door handles and possibly the retention of the concept’s rear wing, which may or may not house a third brake light. As for performance, there will be two power plants with both single- and dual-motor variants to be offered, the latter of which is likely to produce more than 300 hp.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

By Ashley Reyes

Females in the industry are invited to take part in the first-ever SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Women’s Leadership Forum, where participants will acquire skills, develop a valuable support network and leave inspired to take on greater leadership roles in their personal and professional lives. Registration for the March 16–18 event taking place in Costa Mesa, California, is now available online.  

With presentations led by experts, several from the world-renown Dale Carnegie Training Program, the program includes individual tracks and breakout sessions. The conference is a one-of-a-kind event featuring top-quality content that will meet each participant’s unique needs. From learning about employee engagement and the art of executive presence to personal development and leading with a passion, topics addressed during the two-and-a-half day program are practical and proven to have an immediate impact. Participants will also create and build skill sets through education, mentorship and small group discussions.  

“Women in automotive face a variety of unique challenges,” said SBN Director Nicole Bradle. “This event is a safe environment for females to come together to express those challenges, as well as wins, knowing that the common goal is to advance all females. The varied activities and connections made will be unparallel to other industry events. Bonds will be created that will become a woman’s strongest allies throughout their career.”  

Online registration is open through March 15. SBN members can register at a reduced rate of $499, compared to non-SEMA members at $699. Participants must make their own travel arrangements.

View the full program and register here. 

By Ashley Reyes

EPA overreach. Electric vehicle mandates. The right to modify your vehicle. These are just a few examples of how automotive restoration rights are being threatened around the United States.

For the first-time ever, individuals can officially join and help win the fiercest battles for their right to enjoy their automotive passion.

Automotive restoration professionals are invited to learn about SEMA Individual Membership and why becoming a member is imperative for them to defend their automotive rights whenever they are under attack during the SEMA Automotive Restoration Organization (ARMO) general membership and panel discussion, March 11, at 10:00 a.m. (PST).

The discussion will cover the benefits of SEMA individual membership, laws currently impacting the restoration market and why it’s essential that automotive restorers have a voice in each of these fights.

Attendees will be able to ask questions and a brief report on the council’s current initiatives will also be discussed.

Register here.

By Jay Carpio, Fredy Ramirez and Carr Winn

SEMA News caught up to Shelby Hall standing next to a real-world, Bronco Raptor. Hall is literally one of the few civilians with any seat time in the new model. She could barely contain her excitement as she gave the video team a quick tour around the vehicle.

“Raptor is the apex of our off-road lineup and is now a full lineup with race proven content and design that you can’t get from anyone else,” said Jim Farley, chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company. “Only Ford could create a Bronco Raptor.”

“We had to build the Bronco Raptor—it’s our ultimate vehicle for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who demand something more,” said Carl Widmann, Ford Performance chief engineer. “Like the Ultra4 desert race trucks, the ‘Raptor of SUVs’ conquers desert dunes at highway speeds and is equipped with competition-level off-road technology and hardware.”

For more information about Shelby, connect on Instagram at shelbyhalloffroad. And for all things Bronco, visit www.thebronconation.com.

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) named Taylor Haney as this week’s #SheIsSEMA Spotlight Member. Haney is a digital marketing content specialist at The Retrofit Source/Driven Lighting Group—a designer, marketer, influencer and online retailer of aftermarket enthusiast automotive lighting products.

Get to know what drives Haney’s passion in her interview with SEMA below.

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

Taylor Haney: I have been with my current company for two months. I love working with this close-knit team of fellow car junkies!

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

TH: The most challenging part of my job is outdoing what we did last time. We’re always pushing limits and expanding just how far we can go, which is as much enjoyable as it is challenging. We’re always asking around here, “how can we market better?”

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

TH: My first industry position was a graphic designer at COMP Performance Group.

SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today? How have these qualities benefited you?

TH: I’ve always set my sights on something, and either met or exceeded where I thought I would be. The relationships with amazing people that I’ve made along the way have also shaped me into where I am today.

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

TH: I have always strived to be seen as an equal to my male counterparts and respected for my experience and opinion. I have been lucky to have been surrounded by industry members who support my message and the growing group of women around me in the industry and motorsports.

SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry? How have they helped you along the way?

TH: Over the years, I have had the privilege of providing media coverage for racing events, especially those centered around women coming into motorsports. I am constantly inspired by their determination to learn, not only to drive, but to turn wrenches on their own cars. They have inspired me to keep pushing in my hobbies and to continue to spread their message of inclusivity in motorsports.

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

TH: The best career advice I’ve had is to never stop improving. The world isn’t stagnant, and you have to move with the tides. This advice has led me to travel places, meet people and do things I never imagined.

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

TH: I am truly here to stay. I have been inspired by the automotive industry since I was little, from car magazines to going to drag races with my dad. The ever-evolving industry is something that inspires me every day. On weekends, you’ll even find me shooting racing with my camera. I live, sleep and breathe automotive.

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

TH: I had two art directors in my career who believed in me, along with amazing college professors who pushed me to aim high and focus on my goals. They encouraged me to always consider the bigger picture and what steps I can take every day to get there.

Do you know, or are you, a woman with a career in the automotive industry? 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 eNews and recognized on the www.sema.org/she-is-sema website.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) newest spotlight volunteer is Chelsea Allen, owner of Crush Customs.  

Allen is no stranger to the car business. She grew up in car dealerships and tagged along with her trailblazing parents as they serviced their many aftermarket clients. As owner of Crush Customs, Allen exceeds the industry standards in both craftsmanship and service for her customers.

Check out Allen’s video to learn about the ways she gives back to the automotive restyling market.  

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 eNews and future PRO-member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

Andrew Stacy is the SEMA Future Leaders Network’s (FLN) newest spotlight member. Stacy is a marketing manager at The AAM Group, a leading program distribution group and specialty marketing firm serving the automotive aftermarket.  

Get to know Stacy in his interview with SEMA below.

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

Andrew Stacy: The best advice I have probably ever received is just simply to have confidence. There are many times throughout my professional career where I’ve found myself questioning why or how I’m in the position I’m in. One of my previous mentors said to me a long time ago something that I still use to this day to alleviate that confidence issue. He said, “Walk into any meeting or situation and act like you own the place.” Now, when he said this, he didn’t mean to act like a jerk to everyone else and act like a know-it-all. He meant to act as though you belong, and through that, you’ll have more and more confidence in each professional situation.

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

AS: I’ve been a car guy basically my entire life. Working in this industry doesn’t feel like work! Working in this industry provides me with a bit more insight into the business side of things, rather than just the outside “enthusiast” aspect of it. I love that.

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

AS: You can find me driving through the mountains of North Carolina or Tennessee, or hiking up them.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

AS: I prepare an agenda, review notes and do any necessary research into the subject matter of the meeting.

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

AS: I would love to hang around Ken Block or any of the Hoonigans. They seem to love having a good time with anything car related.

If you are a current FLN member, fill out an FLN member spotlight form. Selected candidates may be featured on FLN’s social media, SEMA eNews and FLN member updates.

Jonathan Barber of Bob Cook Sales Earns CPMR Designation

Jonathan Barber of Bob Cook Sales has earned his Certified Professional Manufacturers Representative (CPMR) designation, the company announced. CPMR candidates invest one week annually for three years to gain knowledge and insight into operating a more progressive and efficient rep firm, the company said. In addition, they acquire an international network of colleagues from many industries. Graduates earn the right to use the designation and gain membership to MRERF’s Institute for Professional Advancement (IPA). Bob Cook Sales currently has six agents with their CPMR certification: Barber, Cathy Clark, Ryan Davenport, Mike Katz, Eddie Hamilton and Les Rudd. Barber currently serves on the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN), which focuses on cultivating young talent in the automotive aftermarket and covers the Southeast territory, including Louisiana and parts of Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.  

eTool Developers Celebrates Landmark Anniversary

Luanne Brown, president of eTool Developers, has announced the company recently celebrated a milestone anniversary: 20 years as a premier provider of Internet-based software solutions for the automotive aftermarket.

A recognized authority in her field, Brown—a former member of SEMA's Board of Directors—founded eTool Developers in 2001 after attending her first SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Over the course of two decades, the firm has amassed an impressive client roster, including Action Trucks, AMP Research, Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), Bushwacker, Husky Liners, Superlift Suspensions, Truck Hero and Westin Automotive.

In reflecting on the company’s longevity, Brown credited those who’ve contributed to eTool’s success. “Special thanks to our clients, our team and all who have helped me over the years.  I am extremely grateful to have discovered the automotive aftermarket and all the wonderful people who work in this industry. It has been an incredible 20 years, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Beyond serving on the SEMA Board, Brown previously chaired the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) and the SEMA Cares Committee. She is a recipient of SBN’s Athena Award and the Spirit of Leadership Award presented by the Women’s Automotive Association International. Brown currently sits on the board of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation.

BorgWarner to Acquire Santroll Automotive Components

BorgWarner has announced that it will acquire Santroll Automotive Components, a carve-out of Santroll Electric Auto and Santroll Automotive Components’ eMotor business. BorgWarner said that the acquisition is expected to strengthen its vertical integration, scale and portfolio breadth in light vehicle e-motors while allowing for increased speed to market. Closing is expected in the late first quarter of 2022 and is subject to closing conditions. Based in Tianjin, China, Santroll designs and manufactures hairpin and concentrated-winding technology eMotors for light vehicles and supplies its patented technology to the Chinese OEM market. For more information, visit borgwarner.com. 

IMS Museum Announces Key Promotions, New Hire

Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) Museum President Joe Hale has announced new senior leadership. Mandi Bender has been promoted to vice president of operations after joining as director of guest experience and events in March 2021. Bender will manage the day-to-day functioning of the Museum, including guest services, ticketing, events and visitor amenities. Additionally, Bender will supervise the museum's support services and maintenance and serve as a primary liaison with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Jason Vansickle has been promoted to vice president of curation and education. Vansickle has been with the museum since 2011, having served in numerous roles most recently as curator since 2018. Vansickle will oversee new exhibition creation and content development. He will continue to oversee the collection, restoration department, and work to develop the Museum's educational programming.

Kara Kovert Pray was hired as vice president of marketing and communications. Kovert Pray was most recently at Newfields as the director of marketing. Prior, she worked at the Indiana Sports Corp as the director of marketing and public relations. Kovert Pray will oversee all marketing and communication efforts for the museum, including press coverage, advertising, and overall marketing strategy. For more information, visit imsmuseum.org.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.