Thu, 04/01/2021 - 10:56

SEMA News—April 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

Sophia PolsinelliMarx Buscemi Eisbrenner Group (MBE Group) hired Sophia Polsinelli as its newest account coordinator. Polsinelli joined MBE Group as a communications intern in late September 2020 as part of the company’s recently launched internship program. During her time with MBE Group, Polsinelli supported the company’s in-house marketing initiatives in addition to various client projects. As an account coordinator, Polsinelli will support client account teams with writing, media relations, social media, integrated branding campaigns, and digital marketing activities. Prior to joining MBE Group, she served as a marketing and sales intern for Bosch Battery Systems in Orion, Michigan.

Cometic Gasket announced the acquisition of Klotz Synthetic Lubricants, according to published reports. The company specializes in racing, high-
performance and traditional lubricants, and its markets include automotive, karting, marine, motorcycle and RC categories. As part of the acquisition, Brad Kruckenberg was appointed the new president for Klotz Synthetic Lubrication. At the same time, company founder John C. Klotz will continue in a leadership role as chairman emeritus. The business will continue to engineer, formulate and package its lubricants out of its headquarters in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

HaigHaig Partners LLC announced that Pete Thiel joined the team as managing director. Prior to joining Haig Partners, Thiel was vice president at AutoNation. He has been involved in the purchase or sale of more than 130 dealerships for a value of $2 billion, as well as the evaluation of more than 1,000 acquisition opportunities.

Jim Hairston retired from his full-time position at PerTronix Performance Brands and moved into a consulting role. Hairston has been a critical part of PerTronix for more than two decades and previously served as vice president of sales and marketing and, most recently, as director of key accounts/business development. In his new role, he will help the company with market research, competitive analysis, price points and new-product ideas. Russell Stephens, vice president of sales and marketing, will assume Hairston’s previous day-to-day responsibilities.

DensoDenso Products and Services Americas Inc., an affiliate of Denso Corp., named Joseph Wright its new director of Americas operations. Wright is responsible for overseeing all Denso shipping and receiving operations across North America, including Denso’s warehouse and distribution centers in California and Indiana. Wright brings more than 20 years of experience in warehousing, transportation, global logistics, procurement and production to
the position.

LSI Chemical announced NanoTech Petroleum as its new international distributor. Located in South Africa, NanoTech Petroleum is now authorized to distribute the entire line of LSI Chemical fuel and oil additives and the full line of Hot Shot’s Secret consumer products in South Africa. NanoTech Petroleum will now market and sell the LSI Chemical line of products as well as the entire line of Hot Shot’s Secret products.

AACFThe Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) announced the retirement of Lynn Parker and the selection of Larry Magee (pictured) as president of the board of trustees. Magee has been involved with the foundation for more than 25 years and currently serves on the foundation’s executive committee, recipient review committee, strategic planning committee, and golf committee. Parker served on the AACF board for more than 20 years and as AACF board president the last three years. During his career in the aftermarket, Magee held CEO/president positions with several companies, including Bridgestone/Firestone and Magnolia Enterprise Group.

The FordDirect board also announced the promotion of Mike Gingell to COO. Gingell joined FordDirect as senior vice president for product, marketing and dealer engagement in 2019. His promotion was effective February 1. Prior to joining FordDirect in 2019, Gingell spent more than 20 years in the automotive information industry and led teams that have focused on delivering data and technology solutions for automotive OEMs, automotive retailers, the automotive aftermarket, the commercial truck industry and the finance and insurance markets.

HopkinsHopkins Manufacturing Corp. announced the addition of Vince Callaghan as vice president of information technology. Callaghan will be responsible for all company information tools, communication systems, computer systems and networks, and he will ensure the proper security of the company’s information assets. He will take on the challenge of planning the information technology future to support the next levels of growth for Hopkins, be an advocate for the implementation of new tools and technologies to advance the company, and increase efficiency while also continuing to support current operations.

Chevrolet named Laura Wontrop Klauser its newly created sports-car racing program manager as the manufacturer continues its shift toward an engineering-based approach throughout its motorsports programs. In her new position, Klauser will oversee the engineering and technical aspects of Corvette Racing on behalf of Chevrolet. Klauser, who resides in Detroit, currently manages the Cadillac DPi-V.R and Camaro GT4.R programs in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

FordDirect, a joint venture between Ford Motor Co. and its franchise dealers, announced that Matt VanDyke was appointed CEO, effective February 1. VanDyke, who for more than 12 years led and transformed Ford and Lincoln brand positioning in roles around the world, now takes charge of a team responsible for delivering marketing and advertising solutions to Ford and Lincoln dealers throughout the United States. VanDyke was most recently director of marketing for Ford Motor Co.

Joe Didato joined the Digital Throttle sales team as its new sales director. Based in Detroit, Didato will be responsible for expanding Digital Throttle’s digital advertising services across several automotive markets. He has more than 30 years of industry experience, having worked as national account director for Motor Trend, representing brands such as Motor Trend, Hot Rod, Four Wheeler, Truckin’, Car Craft and Super Street, among others.

Automotive component manufacturer Hero Motors Co. secured a strategic stake in the United Kingdom’s Hewland Engineering Ltd. for an undisclosed sum. The move will enable Hewland to further strengthen its product and service portfolio—particularly transmissions for electrified passenger cars—and pursue opportunities among global OEMs and tier-one suppliers.

Air Lift Co. announced that it acquired air tank manufacturer Flo Airride Mfg. Under the terms of the acquisition, all business operations will move from Flo Airride’s Oklahoma facility to Air Lift’s headquarters based in Lansing, Michigan. In addition to acquiring Flo Airride, Air Lift Co. will gain the rights to Slam’d Magazine, a publication created to build a community of engaged automotive enthusiasts around the world. Air Lift Co. will also welcome former Flo Airride owner Mike Alexander to the Air Lift Performance team as the Air Lift performance brand manager.

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 10:44

By Ashely Reyes

Cathy SkulaThe SEMA Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) named Cathy Skula as this week’s WTC spotlight volunteer. Skula is the executive vice president of RimTyme Custom Wheels—a rent-to-own wheel and tire concept that offers wheels and tires for trucks and Jeeps, as well as custom wheels for passenger vehicles.

SEMA: What led you to obtaining a career in the wheel and tire industry?

Cathy Skula: I spent my entire life in retail operations and got involved in the wheel and tire industry when I took a position overseeing our company’s franchise brands, including RimTyme, which provides access to custom wheels and tires to all segments of customers without the need for credit.

SEMA: How has being a WTC volunteer or member impacted your professional career?

CS: The networking opportunities have been phenomenal and have led to several new business dealings that I would not have had otherwise.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the wheel and tire segment?

CS: My advice is that it's okay not to be an expert in every possible aspect of wheels and tires. The amount of information out there can be overwhelming, so give it time and you will become more and more confident.

 

SEMA: Where can we find you on a Saturday?

CS: Gardening in my yard and tending to my cactus plants. I have over 50 of them!

Fill out a WTC spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the wheel and tire segment of the automotive aftermarket. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on WTC’s social media, SEMA eNews and future WTC member updates.

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 10:28

SEMA News—April 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

SEMA Show
The 2021 SEMA Show is scheduled for November 2–5 at the
Las Vegas Convention Center. SEMA is currently accepting
applications for booth spaces.

Reconnect at the 2021 SEMA Show

Plans for the in-person 2021 SEMA Show, to be held Tuesday–Friday, November 2–5, in Las Vegas, are moving forward as scheduled. Exhibiting companies can now make preparations for the world’s premier aftermarket trade show by completing a space rental agreement and reserving a booth space.

For exhibitors, the SEMA Show delivers quality buyers with the power to make or influence buying decisions. They come every year to see exhibiting companies and the new products and resources at the premier event in the automotive aftermarket industry.

Once exhibitors have reserved their booths, they can register staffs. The earlier that exhibitors register their staffs, the sooner they can start to make their SEMA Show plans successfully come to life. If exhibitors register staff before the October 2021 badge-mailing deadline, they won’t have to pick up badges on site. One less thing to do is a good thing.

For additional information about exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/exhibitor.

Edelbrock
Edelbrock will move its corporate headquarters from Torrance,
California, to Olive Branch, Mississippi, and expand
its foundry and casting facility in San Jacinto, California.

Edelbrock Relocates Corporate Headquarters to Mississippi and Announces Facility Expansion in California

Aftermarket parts supplier Edelbrock is closing its headquarters and manufacturing plant in Torrance, California, and shifting its operations to separate facilities in that state and across the country.

Edelbrock’s administrative offices will be moved to a 300,000-sq.-ft. facility in Olive Branch, Mississippi, while most manufacturing processes will be transferred to the company’s plant in San Jacinto, California, located about 95 mi. east of Torrance.

The company also announced the expansion of its facility in San Jacinto, which currently houses foundry and casting processes for its aluminum products. Plans are also underway to open a new technical center in Cerritos, California, which is set to be fully operational by the time the Torrance facility officially shuts down on March 31. The Edelbrock Southern California Tech Center will house approximately 15 engineering and compliance employees to oversee some development and testing efforts.

SAN
The new SEMA Action Network digital lobbying tool can place
members in touch with legislators, enabling them to
lobby lawmakers directly.

SEMA Launches New Digital Lobbying Guide

The SEMA Action Network (SAN) is pleased to offer a new digital lobbying guide to assist enthusiasts in navigating the political process. This mobile-friendly multimedia advocacy tool features a series of quick and simple tips that break down common misconceptions about influencing public policy.

Many fresh faces have taken office on the heels of an historic U.S. election. With a new session of Congress having convened, it’s a good time to establish lines of communication with new and veteran legislators. Not sure where to begin or how to initiate the conversation with your local elected representatives? The SAN’s new digital lobbying guide has everything you need to put you on the road to success.

Companies can refine their lobbying skills by taking advantage of this new resource free of charge, so be sure to share it with others. Visit the SAN website for full details. While there, sign up to stay informed on issues in your region by subscribing to www.semasan.com/join.

Stan Goldstein
Stan Goldstein enjoyed a career in the automotive industry as
an executive, a creative director and an SCCA champion race
driver.

Aftermarket Veteran Stan Goldstein Passes Away

Longtime automotive aftermarket marketing and advertising professional Stan Goldstein passed away on Tuesday, January 19, after a year-long battle with health issues.

During his life, Goldstein represented many iconic brands, including Hooker Headers, where he created the famous Hooker heart logo and tag line, “I Love My Hooker Headers.”

While senior vice president and creative director at J.R Powers Associates, Goldstein managed the WR Grace Automotive Division brands, including Mr. Gasket, Hurst, Sig Erson, Weld Wheels, Hurst/Airheart, Airheart Brakes, and Keystone Industries. His company, Stan Goldstein Advertising, continued to flourish, representing Alston Race Car Engineering, ARP, Power Slot Brakes and countless others.

Goldstein was an active SEMA member for more than 30 years and was one of the original group that met at a restaurant in Downey, California, to create the Speed Equipment Manufacturers Association—the original name of what has since become the Specialty Equipment Market Association. As general manager of the Spirit Equipment Company, he was a major participant at the first SEMA Show held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 10:26

By Ashley Reyes

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

Mark your calendar 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.

Thursday, April 8 – Vehicle Landscape: Which Cars and Trucks are Hot?
Track: Trends & Research
Series: SEMA Industry Insight Series  

Learn about the current vehicle landscape and emerging trends and opportunities in the automotive aftermarket industry as the SEMA Market Research team provides an overview of what vehicles are currently on the road, shifts in new vehicle sales and trends, and the hottest car and truck models for customization in the industry—followed by a live Q&A with the webinar speakers.

Register here.

Wednesday, April 14 - Facebook Live Chat featuring Chris Blair, presented by SEMA YEN
Track: Industry Talks

Tune in to a Facebook Live Chat featuring Chris Blair, executive vice president and general manager of World Wide Technology Raceway. Since joining WWTR in 2012, Blair has overseen the growth and development of the once-shuttered St. Louis track from a 150-acre, racing-only complex to a multi-purpose entertainment venue in excess of 600 acres. As host of the Facebook Live, Blair will discuss steps racetracks have taken to overcome the state lockdowns and their plans moving forward.

Location: SEMA Facebook page

Wednesday, April 21 - Tire Knowledge 301: Common Causes of Balancing Process Errors and How to Avoid Them
Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks
Series: Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, Powered by WTC

Understanding causes for vehicle vibration and the mechanics of balanced vs. unbalanced tires is critical for helping tire professionals ensure their customers have a smooth ride, even tire wear and proper tire weight distribution around their vehicle. Learn about the common causes of balancing process errors, how to avoid them, and best practices to minimize customer vibration complaints.

Register here.

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 10:20

By SEMA Editors

SEMA ShowWith more than five weeks to go before the SEMA Show space agreement deadline, Show management reports that more than 1,000 exhibitors have already been confirmed for the 2021 event. The news is significant, and underscores the work that Las Vegas and its businesses are doing to welcome back large-venue events like the SEMA Show.

The Las Vegas Convention Center's newly constructed West Hall, a 1.4-million square feet facility, was completed in January, and will house exhibitors from the Restyling & Car Care Accessories, Powersports & Utility Vehicles, and Truck, SUV & Off-Road sections.

As the city continues to ramp back up to host events, the buzz among exhibitors anticipating the return of the in-person SEMA Show for 2021 has increased significantly.

“People are eager to get back to the SEMA Show and reestablish their in-person connections with colleagues and customers,” said Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “The groundswell of excitement among exhibitors increases each day, and the Show is the ‘Main Event’ that the industry is looking forward to in 2021.”

The 2021 SEMA Show is a little more than seven months away, and Show management continues to work closely with the convention center authorities and the state of Nevada to help deliver the best SEMA Show ever.

SEMA Show Dates to Remember
  • The Exhibitor Services Manual (ESM) will be live in May. The ESM contains all of the forms and applications required to prepare for the Show: feature vehicles, new products, booth vehicles, celebrity appearances, etc.
  • Deadline to submit Exhibit Space Rental Application and deposit is May 7.
  • SEMA Show Space Selection: June 7, 2021-June 23, 2021.

Reserve booth space for the 2021 SEMA Show at www.SEMAshow.com/exhibitor.

For complete information about the 2021 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 09:48

By Ashley Reyes

EducationSEMA’s On-Demand Virtual Education library includes comprehensive presentations, insightful discussions and short videos that teach, inform, inspire and entertain automotive specialty-equipment professionals.

The library is filled with recordings of previous live sessions, which are now available on-demand for SEMA members to access at their convenience. Below are some of the most popular sessions. For a complete list of sessions and registration information, visit www.sema.org/virtual-education.

SEMA Industry Insight Series

Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, powered by WTC

Legislative & Regulatory

Marketing & Sales

Perfecting Your Job Search Series, powered by SBN

Sharpen Your Soft Skills, powered by SBN

Team Management Series, powered by SBN

Vehicle Technology

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 09:34

Compiled by SEMA Editors

NASCAR
Martinsville Speedway and Richmond Raceway have announced that
they will host a limited amount of fans in the grandstands when
NASCAR visits in 2021.

Limited Fans for NASCAR Races at Martinsville, Richmond

A pair of speedways in Virginia have announced that they will host a limited amount of fans in the grandstands when NASCAR visits in 2021. Martinsville Speedway will allow a reduced number of fans throughout its first-ever three-race weekend of night races, April 8–10. The half-mile short track is set to host the Virginia is for Racing Lovers 200 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race on Thursday, April 8, followed by the Cook Out 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series Dash 4 Cash race on Friday, April 9, and the Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 500 NASCAR Cup Series race on Saturday, April 10.

Richmond Raceway, celebrating its 75th anniversary, will also host a reduced number of fans for the Toyota Spring Race Weekend, April 17-18. The short track will host the ToyotaCare 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series on Saturday, April 17, followed by the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, April 18. It will be the first time the track has hosted fans in 18 months. For more information, visit martinsvillespeedway.com and richmondraceway.com.

Formula Americas Announces Two Key Members

Formula Americas Super GP has added two key hires. Ian Brown has been appointed as the chief engineer, while C.M. Land will serve as technical director/crew chief for the championship series. The Formula Americas Super GP Championship presented by Pirelli is a professional, arrive and drive, open-wheel competition with visits to Palm Beach International Raceway, Homestead-Miami Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway and Road America.

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

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 09:15

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Eva Pitts
Eva Pitts

Permatex Promotes Eva Pitts to Director of Sales for Traditional and International Business

Permatex has promoted Eva Pitts to director of sales. In her new role, Pitts will manage Permatex’s traditional and international businesses, driving continued growth through strong sales programs, new product initiatives, and customer partnerships. Pitts joined Permatex’s parent company, ITW, in 2015 as brand manager for Rain-X wiper blades and appearance products with the car care division in Houston. She was promoted to group brand manager in 2017 and oversaw the launch of Rain-X Silicone AdvantEdge wipers blades. In 2019, Pitts transitioned into operations with the engine repair division, where she served as quality and EHS manager at Permatex’s Solon, Ohio, facility. Prior to joining ITW, Pitts worked in brand management at The Boston Beer Company.

Yamaha Delivers Essential Support to Public Lands for Outdoor Recreation

Yamaha Motor Corp. USA has announced the completion of the 2020 Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) grant cycle with funding decisions for the fourth quarter. In total, Yamaha granted more than $350,000 in 2020 while supplying essential support to public lands providing vital access to outdoor recreation across the country. The Yamaha OAI program continues to lead the powersports industry in providing direct monetary support to grassroots efforts helping to protect, expand and improve entry to public spaces off-road for motorized recreation.

“The pressure on public lands during the pandemic has been enormous due to people finding solace outdoors. Their adventures gave off-road enthusiasts a much-needed breather from the stress we’ve all experienced over the past year,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager. “Public land belongs to everyone and we all have a responsibility to take care of it. Yamaha is proud to continue supporting our riders’ favorite outdoor activities, including OHV riding, hunting, camping and fishing, through the Outdoor Access Initiative.”

The fourth quarter 2020 Yamaha OAI grants totaling more than $90,000 were awarded to the following organizations:

  • Blue Ribbon Coalition – Pocatello, Idaho
  • East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV Club – Medway, Maine
  • Idaho Single Track Alliance – Idaho Falls, Idaho
  • Reno Area Dirtriders – Reno, Nevada
  • Swampsiders Snowmobile Club – Bigfork, Minnesota

For more than 12 years, Yamaha has issued quarterly grants to non-profit organizations supporting the needs of riding groups, outdoor enthusiasts, land stewardship organizations and public land managers to improve access to public land for outdoor recreation. Since inception, Yamaha contributed over $4.5 million in aid to more than 380 projects across the nation.

The deadline for submission to the second quarter 2021 funding cycle for the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is June 30, 2021, and applications must be postmarked by then. Submission guidelines and applications are available at YamahaOAI.com. Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad.

Hurco
The Hurco Field Service Apprenticeship (FSA) is a two-year program,
beginning with a 12-week industry training that merges hands-on
training and repair of CNC machines with classroom materials.

Hurco North America Announces New Apprenticeship Program

Hurco North America has announced the launch of a new apprenticeship program. The Field Service Apprenticeship (FSA) is a two-year program, beginning with a 12-week industry training that merges hands-on training and repair of CNC machines with classroom materials. While candidates with a degree or working toward one are encouraged to apply, candidates who are mechanically inclined with no industry or engineering experience are also encouraged to apply for the FSA.

Field service engineers will ultimately be ambassadors for Hurco Companies, Inc.—working to provide technical support, training and service of state-of-the-art CNC machines at customers’ facilities across the country. Continuous training on emerging technologies in CNC controls, robot integration, 5-axis machine, and multi-spindle lathe installation, repair, and applications will also be provided after completion of the apprenticeship. The FSA program will take place at Hurco’s headquarters in Indianapolis. For more information, visit hurco.com/apprentice.

QA1 Acquires Gerst Tubular Suspensions

QA1 has announced the expansion of its classic Mopar suspension line with the acquisition of Gerst Tubular Suspension, a manufacturer of coil-over systems for classic Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler platforms. Gerst has produced classic Mopar coil-over systems, including Mopar A, B & E body systems, and D-100 truck systems, for nearly a decade. The acquisition pairs Gerst’s Mopar products with the manufacturing capability and distribution of QA1, the provider of suspension solutions for American musclecars. QA1’s facility in Lakeville, Minnesota, enables expanded and efficient production.

DPI Off-Road Brands Acquires J.T.’s Parts & Accessories Inc.

DPI Off-Road Brands has announced the acquisition of J.T.’s Parts & Accessories Inc.—the manufacturer of the Nitro Gear & Axle brand. J.T.’s Parts & Accessories and Nitro Gear & Axle will operate as a division of DPI Off-Road Brands. Nitro Gear & Axle offers ring-and-pinion sets, semi- and full-float rear axles, C-Clip rear axles, front axles, full and mini spools, pinion yokes and more. The brand was one of the first to offer one-part-number front and rear gear packages and has won three SEMA Global Media Awards in 2016 for its UAZ 5.14 ratio gears. DPI Off-Road Brands includes Daystar Products International, Performance Accessories, Tuff Country, Leveling Solutions, Revtek, VooDoo Offroad, MCE Fenders, and HCT.

Yokohama
Jeff Barna

Yokohama Tire Corp. Announces Organizational Changes

Yokohama Tire Corp. (YTC) has announced several organizational changes, including Jeff Barna’s promotion to president and CEO. Barna, a managing officer of Yokohama Rubber  (YRC), joined YTC as COO in 2017, and was named president of YTC in 2018. This latest promotion will allow Barna greater oversight of YTC’s U.S.-based operations, including the Yokohama Development Center America (YDCA) in Cornelius, North Carolina.

Shinichi Takimoto, the senior managing officer of YRC and current CEO of YTC, will retain his role as chairman of YTC, as well as president and CEO of Yokohama Corporation of North America (YCNA), chairman of Yokohama Tire Canada (YTV), and chairman of Yokohama Tire Mexico (YTMX).

Additional organizational changes include the following:

Takehisa Morimoto is the new chairman and president of Yokohama Tire Manufacturing Mississippi (YTMM). Morimoto, who formerly held a role at Yokohama’s consumer tire plant in Salem, Virginia, and is currently president of Yokohama Tire Manufacturing Thailand (YTMT), replaces Hikomitsu Noji, who will return to YRC as a senior advisor.

Tom Kenny, currently the senior director of research and development at YDCA, has been promoted to vice president of YDCA. Kenny will now report directly to Barna.

Jeremy Kahrs has been promoted from the director of technical services at YDCA to senior director of technical services. Kahrs will continue to report to Kenny.

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.

Thu, 04/01/2021 - 08:57

By SEMA Editors

PRI
Proposal submissions are now being accepted that reflect current
trends, ideas and discoveries within the automotive aftermarket and
performance racing industries.

SEMA and PRI provide an unparalleled platform for innovative thinkers to share their ideas, technologies and industry expertise. Education proposal submissions are now being accepted that reflect current trends, ideas and discoveries within the automotive aftermarket and performance racing industries.

Program Audiences (but not limited to): Automotive small business owners, racing businesses, team owners, managers and employees.

Topics of Interest (but not limited to): Business Management, Sales & Marketing, Advanced Vehicle Technology, Trends & Research, Sponsorship, Building Brands/Branding, Digital Marketing and Industry Segment Specific Topics.

2021 SEMA-PRI Year-Round Virtual Education

Program Details: In an effort to provide further value to members, SEMA and PRI are building a robust virtual education program that members can take advantage of year-round. If selected, SEMA will schedule your session according to availability.

2021 SEMA Show Education (Submission Deadline: February 4, 2021)

  • Show Details: November 1-5, 2021, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas

2021 PRI Show Education (Submission Deadline: April 4, 2021)

  • Show Details: December 9-11, 2021, Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis

To be considered for an education seminar, submit your proposal by selecting “Create Proposal” below.

To resume a proposal, enter your login details below under “Manage Existing Proposal” to pick up where you left off.

For more information on the selection process, how to navigate through the submission process or frequently asked questions click here to view the Speaker FAQ sheet. (opens new window)

If you have an idea for a topic that would benefit the industry, we’d like to hear from you!

Click here to submit a topic suggestion.

For more information, visit the SEMA-PRI Call for Speakers website.

Wed, 03/31/2021 - 15:35

By SEMA Editors

SEMA eNews highlights new products from industry companies each week. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

Edge Products
L5P Duramax Pulsar V3
L5P Duramax Pulsar V3

The all-new, redesigned, L5P Duramax Pulsar V3 now supports up to the ’21 model year, building on the potential of the original Pulsar for L5P, and features an entirely redesigned performance strategy.

Pulsar now adjusts four major components to build power safely: injection pulse width, injection timing, fuel rail pressure, and airflow. We’ve also revamped our shift strategy for improved shifting across the board. The new V3 performance strategy adds 50% more power as compared to the original with up to 135 hp and 293 TQ to the tires.

Website: www.edgeproducts.com

Dana
SPL 140SFX
SPL 140SFX

Dana Incorporated has added new SPL 140SFX service-free u-joints for medium-duty applications to its complete portfolio of Spicer Life Series service-free u-joints for commercial vehicles.

The new Spicer SPL140SFX eliminates the zerk hole lube drill and tap, and includes a tube of Spicer ultra-premium synthetic grease that is compatible with all NLGI-2 greases and professional-grade quality, even at high temperatures. Once the grease is applied, the SPL140SFX is lubricated for the life of the u-joint, resulting in less maintenance, reduced downtime, and lower overall operational costs over time.

Website: www.spicerparts.com

DENSO
PowerEdge DPFs and DOCs for 2007-Newer Class 8 Trucks
DENSO

DENSO Products and Services Americas Inc. (DPAM), an affiliate of leading global mobility supplier DENSO Corp., has expanded its PowerEdge brand of diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and diesel oxidation catalysts (DOCs) to cover nearly all ’07 and newer Class 8 trucks on the road today. Premium PowerEdge diesel aftertreatment products increase fuel efficiency while cutting emissions by trapping soot, a byproduct of diesel engines.

The expanded PowerEdge Diesel Aftertreatment line now features 70 DPFs offering more than 98% coverage of the market and 92 DOCs with more than 80% coverage for a total of 162 part numbers, nearly double the 2020 program. DPFs capture 85% of particulates from truck exhaust, and the capture rate is even higher when DPFs are used in combination with DOCs.

All PowerEdge DPFs and DOCs for the heavy-duty market are backed by a three-year/unlimited mileage warranty. All units come with the gaskets, clamps or hardware required for true plug-and-play installation. DENSO covers the shipping costs when four or more units are shipped together.

Website: www.poweredgeproducts.com

Boostline
Rods For GM Duramax and Cummins Diesels
Rods For GM Duramax and Cummins Diesels

Owners of ’02-’12 Chevy/GM pickups equipped with the 6.6L Duramax engine, as well as those with ’89-’12 Dodge/Ram pickups with 5.9 or 6.7L Cummins engines, can turn to Boostline’s new diesel connecting rods to handle serious increases in power and boost.

Forged from ultra-strong 4340 steel alloy, these rods feature Boostline’s patented 3-pocket design that provides a 60% improvement in bending strength and a 20% stress reduction compared to conventional H-beam designs. The rods are fitted with 12mm ARP2000 fasteners that are rated at 220,000 psi tensile strength, and the larger diameter contributes to a 23% greater clamping force than with 7/16-in. ARP2000 bolts.

Extensively dyno-tested with sustained loads in excess of 2,000 lb.-ft. torque, these new Boostline connecting rods are proven reliable in high boost applications. Manufactured to exceptionally close tolerances, the rods are QC checked for consistency by means of a 25-point CMM inspection.

Website: www.boostlineproducts.com

CTEK
All-In-One POWERSPORT Kit
All-In-One POWERSPORT Kit

Whether you’re hitting the open road on a motorcycle, heading off-road on an ATV, or hitting the wave on a jet ski, CTEK’s new POWERSPORT Kit makes sure your battery is charged and ready to go.

The new CTEK POWERSPORT Kit contains a CT5 POWERSPORT battery charger and maintainer, a CTEK Comfort Connect 8.2-ft. quick-connect extension cable, and a CTEK-branded neck gaiter.

CTEK’s CT5 POWERSPORT is specifically designed for powersport vehicles. The CT5 POWERSPORT is a 12-volt, 2.3-amp battery charger and maintainer.  With dedicated programs for lead-acid and lithium (12V LiFePO4) batteries, you can get the best performance out of your powersport vehicle whether you’re on land, water, snow or ice.

The charger is splash and dustproof, designed to protect vehicle electronics and non-sparking, reverse polarity protected and short-circuit proof.

In addition, the CTEK Comfort Connect 8.2-ft. cable included in the POWERSPORT Kit extends the reach of your charger meaning you can still charge your powersport vehicle even if it’s tucked away at the back of your garage or shop.

The CTEK neck gaiter is a POWERSPORT Kit exclusive and unavailable for purchase elsewhere. The neck gaiter can help protect your face and neck from the elements while riding.

Website: www.smartercharger.com