While GMC has already introduced the Hummer EV pickup, we have yet to see the 4 Wheel Steer in action on public roads, and also have had a limited look at accessories.

These shots show the Hummer EV pickup making a left-hand turn into GM’s Milford proving grounds while utilizing the 4 Wheel Steer system, which was only teased in a dimly lit video. We also get our first look at the Hummer EV pickup wearing a roof rack along with a bed rack, which both appear to be beefier than the Rivian R1T.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

While GMC has already introduced the Hummer EV pickup, we have yet to see the 4 Wheel Steer in action on public roads, and also have had a limited look at accessories.

These shots show the Hummer EV pickup making a left-hand turn into GM’s Milford proving grounds while utilizing the 4 Wheel Steer system, which was only teased in a dimly lit video. We also get our first look at the Hummer EV pickup wearing a roof rack along with a bed rack, which both appear to be beefier than the Rivian R1T.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

By Ashley Reyes

Truck and off-road vehicle builders are invited to apply to showcase their vehicle in a premium spot at the 2021 SEMA Show through the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle program.

Designed to generate awareness and give exposure to builders and the manufacturers whose parts are installed on each vehicle, the program is now accepting applications from builds in the areas of Jeep/Bronco, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland and off-road.

Six vehicles will be selected to participate this year, with one vehicle featured in the TORA booth, and the other five displayed in a premier locations outside of the new Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall.

Learn more and submit an application today.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) named Natalie Simon the latest #SheIsSEMA Spotlight member. Simon is an SBN select committee volunteer and a marketing manager at Ford Motor Co.

Having been with the company for seven years, Simon enjoys working with a diverse team of people on exciting and cutting-edge products. Each day presents its challenges that enable her to think outside the box and non-traditionally.

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

NS: I’m currently in a new role as marketing manager. As I sink my teeth into this new position, I’m learning more and more about what I don’t know and how much I have to still learn. Every day presents its challenges, but as I continue to navigate this role, I’m impressed with that I was able to utilize from the day before and build upon.

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

NS: I’ve been in the auto industry since 2006. I’ve bounced around many jobs —mostly agency, and now with Ford. My first job in the industry was working for an agency of record for General Motors as the purchasing coordinator for GM Events. I was able to move into an event-planning role shortly thereafter. Events have always been my first love.

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

NS: One: The willingness to learn from those around me. Surround yourself with people who you’re able to learn from every single day. Listen to them and take as much as you can from their experiences. The good, bad and ugly. Two: The ability to take changes. You’ll never realize how far you can get when you take a chance and step a little outside of center. Get a little uncomfortable! Three: Humility. It’s incredibly important to be humble. Know when you’re rocking it, and understand when you need help. Being humble means reaching out for assistance, even if you don't want to. Sometimes it’s a hard pill to swallow, but the benefits you get when you are able to ask for help will pay off big time.

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

NS: My first boss when I was working for the agency for GM was my first “real boss” and gave me the confidence to go outside of my comfort zone. She allowed me to ask a lot of questions. (Sometimes even what I thought were “dumb” questions!) She taught me that even the silliest of questions could be the same ones that other people could be thinking about. In short, don’t be shy.

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

NS: Instead of saying something about one person, I’d have to say that the women I surround myself with are influential and teach me something every single day. My girls bring me up each day because I get to work with them and take what I’ve learned from them into life and the workplace.

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

SEMA is seeking entrepreneurs and inventors who have the next big automotive-related product or accessory. Through the SEMA Launch Pad, those with a functioning automotive-related product that will hit or has recently hit the market are invited to submit their 2021 SEMA Launch Pad applications for a chance to win a prize package valued at up to $92,000.

Since 2013, the program has helped entrepreneurs launch their products into the marketplace, providing them with cash prizes, next-level marketing opportunities, access to business tools and resources and more.

Originally created to support emerging entrepreneurs under the age of 40, this year’s program does not have an age cap and is open to qualified individuals 18 and over. The prizes have also increased to include a grand-prize package valued up to $92,000, cash awarded to the top three finalists and featured video interviews promoting dozens of applicants on SEMA’s social media networks.

Fifteen semi-finalists will also be selected to attend the 2021 SEMA Show in November, where the top five will pitch their products to a panel of industry judges and be recognized at the industry’s premier celebration—the SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet.

”Before going through the Launch Pad program, I wasn”t even a blip on the industry's radar,” recalls Jonathan Mill, who won the first-ever SEMA Launch Pad competition for this product the E-Stopp Emergency Brake. “After winning it, my product, career and network skyrocketed. All because I chose to get involved with SEMA.”

Past products included have been selected from segments such as vehicle technology, restyling, truck and off-road and more, although the program is not limited to any product that has the potential to positively impact the future of the aftermarket industry.

To qualify, applicants must be a business owner, company-leading executive (president, CEO, CFO, COO) or vice president of a company, and must offer a product or service that is a functioning prototype, functioning concept or currently for sale. The deadline to apply is May 30, 2021.

Apply now for SEMA Launch Pad.

By Ashley Reyes

Following SEMA’s recent market research on the changing vehicle landscape, SEMA released a research report dedicated solely to the light-truck market. The 99-page study includes in-depth sales information for pickups, SUVs, CUVs and vans, as well as aftermarket parts for these vehicles.

The new Light-Truck Market Snapshot from SEMA Market Research shows that in 2020 more than 90% of U.S. Ford, GM and Stellantis (formerly FCA) vehicles sold were light trucks. Pickups remain a large part of the specialty automotive aftermarket and accounted for more than 30% of specialty-equipment part sales in 2019.

CUVs have not been fully embraced by specialty-equipment consumers and businesses, but remain a big part of the overall light-truck market. They have become the fastest-selling vehicle segment in the United States, and also a very fragmented one with more than 170 CUV models projected to be sold from 2021–2028.

The report helps businesses understand the overall truck market and includes a snapshot of trends for the light-truck, off-road, overland, outdoor recreation, powertrain and technology segments.

“Light trucks are used for a wide variety of activities and continue to be shaped by trends in vehicle sales, technology and consumer behavior,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “We anticipate this growth to continue over the next decade as vehicle manufacturers prioritize their light-truck models.”

Trends in powertrains and vehicle technology are also shaping the light-truck market:

• Engines are getting smaller overall: 52% of pre-’90 light trucks have a 5L or larger engine, compared with 22% of 2010 and newer trucks.
• Forced induction is becoming more common, especially on smaller engines. Less than 1% of pre-’90 light trucks have a turbocharger or supercharger but 22% of 2010 and newer trucks come with some sort of forced induction.
• Alternative fuels, such as hybrid or electric powertrains, have been slower to catch on with trucks than with cars, but they are coming—several electric trucks have been announced in recent years, including an all-electric Jeep Wrangler and several electric pickups.
• New-vehicle technologies, such as ADAS, are also becoming more common, and may affect how specialty truck parts are designed, produced and installed.

To learn more about the evolving diversity of the light truck market and find insights that can help your business succeed, download the “SEMA Light-Truck Market Snapshot” for free today at www.sema.org/research.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Next Gen Cars Unveiled for 2022 Cup Series

The Next Gen models for NASCAR Cup Series competition in 2022 have been unveiled at The Park Expo in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Ford Mustang and Toyota TRD Camry were debuted to the public as part of what NASCAR calls a “new era of the rebirth of stock.” All three OEMs worked with competition officials to design the new models with bigger wheels, a musclecar coupe-style appearance and the potential for the transition to hybrid power in the future. The Next Gen vehicles are also highlighted by a symmetrical body, which removes the skew and tail offset from the centerline that is used to create a right-side side force. This will help decrease aerodynamic dependence and “increase the emphasis on car setup in the hands of teams and drivers,” NASCAR said.

Officials anticipate two different rules packages for 2022—a low-downforce, low-drag, high-horsepower one for short tracks and road courses, along with a high-downforce, lower horsepower package for intermediate-sized tracks (1.5 miles) and longer. Target horsepower figures for the rules packages are still being determined. The unveiling comes after NASCAR had previously pushed the planned 2021 debut of the Next Gen car to 2022. The NASCAR Next Gen cars will make their competition debut on February 20, 2022, at Daytona International Speedway for the 64th annual Daytona 500. For more information and specifications, visit here or nascar.com.

New Technical Director Announced for F4 US, FR Americas

Parella Motorsports Holdings, in conjunction with SCCA Pro Racing, has appointed Aaron Coalwell as the new technical director for the Formula 4 United States Championship powered by Honda and the Formula Regional Americas Championship powered by Honda. Buddy Fey, who has served in the position for the two junior formula series for three full seasons, had previously announced his retirement earlier this year. Coalwell has supported Fey in the decision-making process for the last month and will officially assume the position full-time after the combined Brainerd International Raceway event, July 16–18. Coalwell has officiated in the SCCA since the late ’90s, serving in several technical leadership positions, including operating as the World Challenge technical manager for six seasons (2002–2008). He has also served as a tech official for two F4 U.S. events in 2017 before taking on his full-time role as the technical series director for the Trans Am Series. He will continue his responsibilities with Trans Am. F4 U.S. and FR Americas return to action for a tripleheader weekend at Road America, May 14–17, joining the Road America Vintage Racing Festival.

CRC Industries, Pocono Raceway Announce Camping World Truck Series Entitlement Partnership

CRC Industries has announced its entitlement partnership with Pocono Raceway, as the track will host the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series for the CRC Brakleen 150. The partnership will come together for the Pocono Raceway Doubleheader Weekend, featuring five NASCAR and ARCA races over three days. The green flag will wave for the CRC Brakleen 150 at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, June 26. Operating at full capacity, Pocono Raceway’s Doubleheader Weekend schedule will include an ARCA Menards Series race on Friday, June 25, the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series CRC Brakleen 150 and a NASCAR Cup Series race on Saturday, June 26, followed by the NASCAR XFINITY Series and the second of two NASCAR Cup Series races on Sunday, June 27. For tickets, visit www.poconoraceway.com.

New Scholarship Available for Female Minorities in Motorsports

The STEAM Sports Foundation has launched a new scholarship for minority women seeking careers in the automotive industry with an emphasis on engineering, alternative energy, or autonomous vehicle development. The $5,000 scholarship, applicable for the 2021–2022 academic year, is designed to spur greater involvement by women in the auto and motorsports industries. Eligible students include high school seniors, university and technical college students who have at least one year remaining before graduation. The application deadline is June 15. Interested students can apply here. For more information, visit www.dickinsonpg.com/scholarship-instructions.

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

By Ashley Reyes

Learn about the current state of high-performance electric vehicle conversions and where the market is heading by tuning in to the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Facebook Live Chat featuring founder of EV West Michael Bream.

With more than 1.4 million plug-in vehicles on the road in the United States, customers and the aftermarket will start to provide alternative options to the new-car dealer for maintenance and customization. During this live chat, Bream will share his insight on how EVs and hybrids differ when it comes to repairs and customization, if current dealers and aftermarket customizers are up-to-speed on the new and ever-changing technologies in EVs, and how members can gain the technical knowledge to become a customizer or repairer of these new vehicles.

Bream graduated with a degree in computer engineering and biochemistry before founding EV West in 2009. Using automotive knowledge learned from his father, he blended it with modern engineering to create the perfect performance-based EV solutions. Participants will be able communicate him live, tap into his expertise, and get their questions answered in real-time

Date: Tuesday, May 18
Time: 12:00 p.m. (PDT)
Location: ETTN Facebook page

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Virtual Education remains committed to empowering industry professionals by sharing innovative strategies, information and learnings through new and engaging webinars.

Mark your calendars for the following upcoming webinars and stay tuned to SEMA eNews as additional sessions are announced throughout the year. For a comprehensive library of upcoming and on-demand sessions that members can access anytime, visit www.sema.org/virtual-education.

Wednesday, May 19 – Preparing for National Tire Safety Week
Series: Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, Powered by WTC  
Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) National Tire Safety Week will take place, June 28–July 4. Join two-wheel and tire technical experts as they share important information that companies can use to educate their staff and consumers on proper tire care and maintenance. Topics include but are not limited to TIA highlights for tire safety, the importance of air pressure, the RIM (Read, Inspect, Mount) Safety Program and more.

Register here.

Tuesday, May 18 – Facebook Live Chat featuring Michael Bream, Presented by ETTN
Track: Industry Talks

With more than 1.4 million plug-in vehicles on the road in the United States, customers and the aftermarket will start to provide alternative options to the new-car dealer for maintenance and customization. During this live chat featuring founder of EV West Michael Bream, attendees will hear about the current state of high-performance electric vehicle conversions and where the market is heading.

Location: ETTN Facebook page

Thursday, May 20 – More Than Just Jeeping: Other Ways People Go Off-Road
Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Learn how to capitalize on the growing interest in the outdoor and backcountry lifestyle by taking part in this webinar, presented by the SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA). Participants will learn about the evolving landscape of the off-road market, the different ways people are going off-road and related products that businesses may want to consider to increase sales.

Register here.

Tuesday, May 25 – Securing Education and Skills Training for Current and Future Positions
Series: Soften Your Soft Skills Series, Powered by the SBN
Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Securing education and skills training is imperative to ensure one’s success, relevancy and advancement in their job or future career. During this webinar geared toward entry- to mid-level professionals, attendees will learn how to identify the training and education opportunities that best suits their needs, and how to request skills training from an employer to earn proper wages and secure advancements.

Register here.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a report to Congress that is highly critical of anti-competitive repair restrictions employed by manufacturers that limit consumer choice. The U.S. Congress directed the FTC to prepare the report, which the agency based on research gathered at its “Nixing the Fix: A Workshop on Repair Restrictions” (July 16, 2019). The FTC considered a wide-range of products, from printers to computers, with a focus on automobiles and mobile phones. The report includes recommendations on how to best address these problems.

The FTC notes that the report is timely since consumer products are becoming harder to fix, and repairs often require specialized tools, difficult-to-obtain parts, and access to proprietary diagnostic software. Repair options decrease as a result, placing an increased financial burden on lower income and underserved populations.

The FTC observed “scant evidence” to support manufacturers’ justifications for repair restrictions. Manufacturer explanations for the restrictions were divided into six categories: protection of intellectual property, safety, cybersecurity, liability and reputational harm, consumer design choices, and quality of service. The report provides examples of how manufacturer restrictions can block repairs such as the use of access control technologies (ex: software locks or technological protection measures).

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA) seeks to protect aftermarket competition by making it illegal for a manufacturer to void a warranty or deny coverage if a customer has a repair or maintenance performed by an independent repair shop or using a third-party replacement part (unless the original manufacturer provides the service or part for free). In fact, the MMWA’s anti-tying provision is not limited to service and repair issues. It also applies to specialty parts and modifications. For example, it is illegal for an auto dealership to void a warranty based on the mere presence of a specialty part. If there is a malfunction, the dealership must show that the aftermarket part caused the problem.

The FTC expressed concern over whether the MMWA’s anti-tying provision is keeping pace with technological challenges that have the potential effect of tying a repair to the OEM or their authorized dealers using OEM parts. Examples provided include: unavailability of parts and repair information, statements that steer consumers to manufacturer repair networks, application of patent rights and enforcement of trademarks, or disparagement of non-OEM parts and independent repair.

The report identified industry self-regulation as potentially beneficial while noting that only the auto industry has created and implemented this. In 2014, trade groups representing the automakers and independent repair shops and aftermarket replacement parts manufacturers entered into a Memorandum of Understanding after Massachusetts passed a motor vehicle “right to repair” law. Manufacturers agreed to sell the diagnostic and repair information made available to their dealers to car owners and independent repair shops.

In 2020, Massachusetts voters approved a new ballot initiative to essentially expand the existing right to repair law to telematics. Starting with model-year ’22, “manufacturers of motor vehicles sold in Massachusetts to equip any such vehicles that use telematics systems … with a standardized open access data platform,” that would enable vehicle owners to authorize independent repair facilities and dealerships “to retrieve mechanical data from and send commands to, the vehicle for repair maintenance, and diagnostic testing.” The ballot initiative is currently subject to a court lawsuit.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.