By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members can learn how product sales are trending in the automotive aftermarket by reading the "SEMA State of the Industry--Fall 2023" report, available for download at sema.org/market-research.

The report, which helps SEMA members gain a better understanding of how the industry is performing in the current business climate, includes new data on how product sales have evolved in different categories over the past year.

"Understanding how industry sales are faring can help businesses discover new market trends and identify changes in consumer preferences," said SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp. "Readers will gain detailed insight into what products are in demand, helping them make more strategic business decisions."

The latest edition of the biannual report finds that retailers were especially likely to see growth in handling products (suspension, brakes and steering), as well as intake, fuel and exhaust products. Positive sales growth also continues across most performance categories.

Additional data revealed in the report includes forecast and sales expectations for the next year, industry insights from manufacturers, retailers and installers, sales shifts by channel and vehicle sales trends.

The "SEMA State of the Industry--Fall 2023" report is available for free download to all SEMA members at sema.org/market-research.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a significant victory for consumer freedom, the Ohio General Assembly has passed SEMA-supported legislation ensuring Ohioans, not the government, decide which vehicles best suit their needs. The bill, H.B. 201, prohibits any state or local government entity from restricting the use or sale of motor vehicles based on their power source, including internal combustion engines (ICE).

Following its passage through the legislature, H.B. 201 now awaits the crucial decision of Governor Mike DeWine, who can sign it into law or issue a veto. This bill represents a significant step forward for proponents of consumer choice, who believe individuals should have the right to select the vehicle that best fits their lifestyle and budget, regardless of its fuel type. Click here to send a letter to Governor DeWine requesting his support for the bill.

"SEMA strongly applauds the Ohio General Assembly for taking a stand for consumer choice in the automotive marketplace," said Christian Robinson, SEMA senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Consumers deserve the freedom to choose the vehicle that meets their individual needs, and H.B. 201 ensures just that."

The bill's passage comes at a pivotal time in the automotive industry, with rapid advancements in alternative fuel technologies alongside ongoing concerns about affordability and infrastructure readiness. H.B. 201 safeguards the diversity of options available to Ohioans, allowing them to choose vehicles that align with their budget, driving habits and personal preferences.

For more information, contact Kiley Chapley at kileyc@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Spotted by SEMA News sources in Germany, the electric Mercedes C-Class, scheduled to hit dealerships in 2025, boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design that features distinctive LED lighting elements, a sculpted front grille and a futuristic silhouette, signaling a departure from conventional combustion engine designs.

The all-new C Class EV will have a sleek and aerodynamic design.

The electric powertrain will offer instant torque, enabling rapid acceleration and a silent driving experience. The '25 C-Class will be equipped with a state-of-the-art battery system designed to provide an extended range on a single charge.

The all-electric vehicle's interior is expected to incorporate wood accents, recycled textiles and other eco-friendly materials.

The electric C-Class is also expected to incorporate eco-friendly materials in its interior design, according to insiders. The cabin features responsibly sourced wood accents, recycled textiles and environmentally-conscious materials.

Upon release, the C-Class EV will also be equipped with the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, which features a large touchscreen interface, voice controls and smartphone integration. Other features include autonomous driving capabilities, fast-charging capabilities and more.

By SEMA News Editors

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

Sawtooth

Expandable Tonneau Cover for Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon

Sawtooth has added to its product lineup with a new Sawtooth Expandable Tonneau Cover for the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Made from a composite textile, the water-resistant cover stretches and expands around objects extending above the pickup truck bed walls.

sawtootht.com

By SEMA News Editors

USAC Releases 2024 National Event Schedule

The United States Auto Club (USAC) has revealed its national event schedule for 2024.

Featuring races in 15 different states, the 2024 schedule consists of 98 total events for its Silver Crown, sprint car and midget series. The slate includes 54 sprint car, 30 midget and 14 USAC Silver Crown National Championship races.

For the full schedule, visit usacracing.com.

Atlanta Motorsports Park Wins Outstanding Facility Award

Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP) received the 2023 Outstanding Facility Award, presented by SPEED SPORT, at the Race Track Owner's Conference held in conjunction with the PRI Show.

The accolade recognizes AMP's commitment to excellence and innovation in the high-performance driving and racing industry, setting a high benchmark for facilities worldwide, AMP representatives said.

For more information, visit atlantamotorsportspark.com.

MAVTV Adds Dakar Rally, Trans Am Coverage for 2024

MAVTV, the automotive media platform, is adding coverage of the Dakar Rally and Trans Am Series to its programming lineup for 2024.

Beginning January 5, MAVTV will broadcast same-day, one-hour highlight shows from the 2024 Dakar Rally until the final stage on January 19. The network has secured the broadcast rights for the annual off-road race through 2026.

Additionally, MAVTV will have expanded coverage of the Trans Am Series and its TA and TA2 events throughout 2024.

For more information, visit MAVTV.com.

For additional racing news, visit the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) website. 

By SEMA News Editors

Circle D Specialties Acquires Reid Racing

Circle D Specialties, a manufacturer of high-performance torque converters and driveline components, has acquired Reid Racing.

Reid Racing offers a lineup of performance transmission cases and heavy-duty axle components for off-road vehicles.

With the acquisition of Reid Racing, Circle D Specialties now offers a comprehensive range of drivetrain and undercarriage performance products, the company said, providing enthusiasts and racers with a single source for performance transmission needs.

Circle D will consolidate Reid Racing's Concord, California, operations into Circle D's existing facility in Houston, Texas.

For more information, visit circledspecialties.com.

Radford Racing School Names Chuck Sundstrom General Manager

Radford Racing School has named motorsports veteran and professional drag racing instructor Chuck Sundstrom as its new general manager.

Beginning January 1, Sundstrom will manage the Radford Racing School team and operations and will be tasked with optimizing the automotive experience for students and guests of all levels, school representatives said.

For more information, visit radfordracingschool.com.

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 some of the latest postings.

Texas Speed and Performance

Research and Development Engineer in Georgetown, Texas

Texas Speed and Performance is hiring a research and development engineer as it adds Ford and Mopar products to its lineup. The selected candidate will perform engineering and design analysis for new product development, execute performance, durability and fitment testing and more.

Goolsby Customs

Paint and Body Team Member in Hueytown, Alabama

The Hueytown, Alabama-based hot rod shop is seeking new members for its paint and body team. Applicants must be experienced in the industry.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently caught a glimpse of the new Audi A7 wagon prototype road testing in Ingolstadt, Germany.

According to industry insiders, the A7 will be powered by a hybrid powertrain, potentially as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), utilizing a four-cylinder combustion engine and be available as both a sedan and a wagon. Performance-focused S and RS models are rumored to be a plug-in hybrid paired with a six-cylinder engine. 

The hybrid Audi A7 is expected to be available as both a sedan and a wagon.

Consistent with Audi's electrification plans, the A7 will likely share features with the Audi A6 e-Tron, sources said, including interior features and wider cockpit screen with variable layouts that only display relevant content. 

The new model is not expected to debut before the end of 2024.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is accepting registrations for its Women’s Leadership Forum (WLF), taking place March 5-7, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Themed "Evolve: Advancing the Future of Women in Leadership," the forum will empower women employed in the automotive aftermarket to reach new levels of career success by honing their personal development and leadership skills. 

Participants will receive career advice, build their professional network of women and take part in group discussions.

"The SBN forum provides a place for women in the industry to come together to learn how to navigate the challenges of leadership and communicate their value in the traditionally male-dominated automotive aftermarket industry," said SEMA Council Director Nicole Bradle, MA, CMP, CAE. "The lessons learned, along with the relationships built, will leave attendees ready and inspired to overcome their unique leadership challenges and build the confidence needed to elevate their impact in their organizations."

Now in its third consecutive year, the SBN Women's Leadership Forum will feature programs, workshops and resources designed to help women thrive in the workplace. Participants will receive career advice from experienced leaders, build a strong professional network of women that understand their market and take part in discussions where they can address their challenges and wins. 

Program highlights include: 

• A keynote session highlighting mindset shifts for an intentional life.
• Breakout sessions focused on defining your roadmap, qualities of women who lead, unleashing your potential and financial planning.
• A human resources and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) panel discussion on increasing representation of women in an organization.
• Action planning session to help attendees define specific actions needed to achieve their goals.
• Networking happy hour to connect with like-minded professionals.
• Morning sunrise activities.
• Complimentary headshots.

"The Women's Leadership Forum impacted me both personally and professionally in so many ways," said previous participant Aliceje Keyburn of Yamaha Motor Corp. "Not only am I a leader in my organization, but I also lead a family and a friend group. The skills that I learned were applicable to many aspects of my life."

For more information on the SBN Women's Leadership Forum and registration details, visit www.sema.org/sbn-wlf or contact Nicole Bradle at Nicoleb@sema.org.  

By Ashley Reyes

Building a high-performance team is important to an organization's success. It helps build employee engagement, increases productivity and leads to a better company culture.

SEMA members in supervisor or managerial positions are invited to attend the upcoming session, "Building a High-Performance Team, presented by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)," on January 23, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. PST/3:00 p.m. EST to hear from industry experts as they share their top tips for improved performance.

Attendees will learn:

• How to build a high-performance team.
• How to recognize if your plan is working as designed.
• The importance of aligning the team's values and vision with a common goal.
• Benefits of a having a system that works for your team.
• How a high-performance team can improve communication, cooperation and culture experience.

The session will be moderated by Melissa Parker-Boudreaux (ORACLE Lighting) and feature panelists Matt Beenen (BuiltRight Industries), Colby McLaughlin (Trim Illusion) and Joanna Shere (Steele Rubber Products). Time will be allocated at the end of the session for a Q&A. Don’t miss out. Secure your seat!