By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

During his time in Congress, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) has proven himself to be a defender of motorsports. Rep. Hudson is the lead Republican co-sponsor of H.R. 3281, the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2021 (RPM Act), and is a passionate racing fan. As the hometown Congressman for the Charlotte Motor Speedway and much of the race parts industry, Rep. Hudson is the only member of Congress who prominently displays the hood of a racecar in his Washington, D.C., office.

Rep. Hudson is a leading voice on the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee for the RPM Act and has questioned the two past EPA administrators during public hearings about their position on the conversion of motor vehicles for racing.

Watch the video below to learn more about Rep. Hudson and then send a letter asking your legislator to support the RPM Act. Click here to see the current list of RPM Act co-sponsors.

This is what has been called the “Bronco Warthog,” that is until now, as a source close to the blue oval has confirmed that we’re actually looking at the Ford Bronco Raptor.

The vehicle looks fresh, as if it just finished being built, and now features the infamous FORD grille.

All the expected workings of a Raptor are present and accounted for, including a significantly higher ground clearance, wider wheel arches, and a wider, more aggressive stance. The significant amount of thick camouflage covers up the majority of the vehicle, but the camo can only do so much to disguise what are clearly wider flares.

The prototype rides on a set of BFGoodrich AT All Terrain T/A tires, though we can’t quite make out the size (it appears to be a 17-in. rim). It’s not clear what suspension upgrades are in place, but the Raptor is definitely expected to feature a more rugged and capable chassis.

The latest rumblings pin the Bronco Raptor as launching for the ’23 model year, where it will join the F-150 Raptor and Ranger Raptor.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

This is what has been called the “Bronco Warthog,” that is until now, as a source close to the blue oval has confirmed that we’re actually looking at the Ford Bronco Raptor.

The vehicle looks fresh, as if it just finished being built, and now features the infamous FORD grille.

All the expected workings of a Raptor are present and accounted for, including a significantly higher ground clearance, wider wheel arches, and a wider, more aggressive stance. The significant amount of thick camouflage covers up the majority of the vehicle, but the camo can only do so much to disguise what are clearly wider flares.

The prototype rides on a set of BFGoodrich AT All Terrain T/A tires, though we can’t quite make out the size (it appears to be a 17-in. rim). It’s not clear what suspension upgrades are in place, but the Raptor is definitely expected to feature a more rugged and capable chassis.

The latest rumblings pin the Bronco Raptor as launching for the ’23 model year, where it will join the F-150 Raptor and Ranger Raptor.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) named Cindy Smith as this week’s WTC spotlight volunteer. Smith is the marketing manager at RimTyme Custom Wheels, a rent-to-own wheel and tire concept that offers wheels and tires for trucks and Jeeps, as well as for custom wheels for passenger vehicles.

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

Cindy Smith: It just sort of happened, but I’m ecstatic it did!

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

CS: Through WTC events and meetings, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and innovators. This has helped me to expand my ideas and creativity to enhance our brand.

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

CS: The wheel and tire industry is exciting and is always evolving. My advice is to make sure you get involved in the many organizations and groups offered through SEMA. It will definitely keep you informed on the latest trends and technology happening throughout the industry.

SEMA: Where can we find you on a Saturday?

CS: I'm usually on some type of sports field cheering on my kids in their sporting events.

Fill out a WTC spotlight application to share how you or your company are contributing to the wheel and tire segment of the automotive aftermarket. Selected candidates have the opportunity to be featured on SEMA eNews, social media and WTC member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

Emerging entrepreneurs and inventors have until May 30 to submit their applications for the SEMA Launch Pad. Through the SEMA Launch Pad, those with a functioning automotive-related product or accessory will have the chance to win a prize package valued at $92,000 to help launch their product or service into the marketplace.  

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 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.

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 or concept or currently available for sale.

Apply now for SEMA Launch Pad.

By Ashley Reyes

Members in Southern California are invited to volunteer at the SEMA Cares Pinewood Build Day, Saturday, June 5, from 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at the Childhelp Village in Beaumont, California.

As one of the designated charities of SEMA Cares, Childhelp treats as many as 84 abused, neglected and at-risk children at its Southern California residential facility. SEMA Cares Pinewood Build Day is an opportunity for the industry to meet and connect with the children by helping them decorate and race pinewood race cars. For many of the children who have endured great hardship, the event is an entertaining activity that allows them to have fun and brings a smile to their faces. Each child will receive and decorate two pinewoods—one to keep and the other to donate. Donated cars will be available for purchase at the SEMA Installation & Gala, and all proceeds will benefit SEMA Cares charities.

The Pinewood Build Day is ideal for anyone who may have a few hours to help make a difference in the lives of children in need. SEMA members are encouraged to bring their families to this special day, as it is fun way to get the whole family involved in giving back and helping others.

Lunch will be included. Please RSVP to Lindsay Bianco at lindsayb@sema.org or 909-978-6692. 

By Juan Torres

Kyle Fickler of Driven Racing Oil has been elected chairman-elect and will help the SEMA Board of Directors lead the association over the next several years.

Fickler fills the position held for the past two years by James Lawrence (Power Automedia), who will begin his term as chairman in July, when Tim Martin (Aftermarket Advisors) concludes his term in that position.

Brian Reese (Driven Lighting Group), Larry Montante (Keystone Automotive Operations), and Lindsay Hubley (Lodestone Events) were also voted onto the SEMA Board of Directors, while Kim Pendergast (Magnuson Superchargers) and Steve Whipple (Jegs High Performance) were re-elected and will serve another term.

SEMA Board members are industry representatives who volunteer their time to lead and guide the association.

They are elected by SEMA-member companies and represent the key membership categories: manufacturers, manufacturers' representative, distributors/retailers, and services.

The entire 2021–2022 SEMA Board of Directors will be honored and recognized during the SEMA Installation & Gala on July 30 in Las Vegas. At the same time, outgoing SEMA Immediate Past Chair Wade Kawasaki (Legendary Companies) and board members Donnie Eatherly (P&E Distributors), Dan Kahn (Kahn Media), and Brian Lounsberry (One 6 Motorsports) will conclude their volunteer terms and be honored for their service and contributions.

The event also pays special tribute to 2021 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees Jessi Combs, Rick Love, Bob Moore, and Carl Schiefer.

The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala will feature cocktails, networking and dinner. Seating for the event is limited.

For more information and to register, visit www.sema.org/gala.

The SEMA Installation & Gala is a long-established tradition where individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry are honored and celebrated.

Join SEMA leadership, volunteers and industry icons at the SEMA Installation & Gala, Friday, July 30, in Las Vegas, to honor 2021's SEMA Hall of fame Inductees—Jessi Combs, Rick Love, Bob Moore and Carl Schiefer. The gala will take place in the new West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), the same venue where thousands of industry professionals will congregate for the 2021 SEMA Show in November.

Since its inception in 1976, the SEMA Installation & Gala has served as the formal gathering where new SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced, the incoming Board of Directors is sworn in, and outgoing Directors are thanked. SEMA council, network and industry leaders are also recognized during the event.

The evening will feature cocktails, networking and dinner. Seating is limited. For more information and to register, visit www.sema.org/gala.

The SEMA Data Excellence designation recognizes the companies that have worked with SEMA Data to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets.

Oracle Lighting
White Underbody Wheel Well Rock Light Kit

These new highly durable and intensely bright white LED rock lights easily install for applications on trucks, Jeeps, trailers, powersport vehicles and more.

Using quality Cree XQ-E chips and expertly engineered components, Oracle Lighting offers four intensely bright white rock lights in an easy-to-install kit for a fraction of what some other brands charge.

The kit includes everything needed for installation, including:

(4) white LED rock lights
(4) mounting gasket sets
(4) sets of mounting hardware
(1) 4-to-1 easy wiring hub  

www.oraclelights.com
PN: 5875-001

Tuffy Security Products
Universal Console Safes

Tuffy Security Products offers a choice of four Universal Center Console Safes from 6 1/2-in. wide to 12-in. wide to fit a wide variety of vehicle applications in several color ways to compliment the vehicles existing interior.

Tuffy’s exclusive Pry-Guard locking system has a ¼-in. steel latch which enables the lid to be closed without having to be locked.  The company’s patented anti-twist push button lock with 10 tumbler bitted security key features built-in weather seals. A marine grade vinyl padded exterior offers comfortable arm rest cushion and two oversized drink holders are located in the front. A removable tray and rubber floor mat are included. Grade 8 mounting hardware is provided.

This secure storage solution product is ideal for protecting stereo equipment, cell phones, important documents or other valuables.  

www.tuffyproducts.com
PN: 012

ZyBar
32 oz. Cast Finish

ZyBar 32 oz. Cast Finish high temperature heat dissipation coating is designed to reduce radiant heat, reduce under hood temperatures, offers outstanding corrosion resistance, provides lasting color stability under the most extreme engine conditions and extends the life of your components.

ZyBar is rated to internal temperatures well in excess of 2000 F. ZyBar is a single component, durable polymer coating that far outperforms ceramic paints, wraps and heat tapes. ZyBar is spray applied inside and outside the component. ZyBar treats manifolds, headers, turbo housings, exhaust, brakes and intakes. ZyBar is a thin .001-.0025 film coating that is either oven cured (2 hours @ 450 F) or air cured (120 hours).  

www.zycoat.com 
PN: 13032

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.

Metra Electronics
iBEAM Replacement Camera for Jeep Gladiator

iBEAM Vehicle Safety Systems by Metra Electronics released a new replacement camera designed for ’20-and-up Jeep Gladiator JT models. When replacing the radio on these vehicles, the factory LVDS backup camera presents a challenge for aftermarket screens and can be expensive to retain using an interface. iBEAM’s JP-JTKT camera replaces the factory camera to provide an affordable solution that allows the driver to see their backup video on a compatible aftermarket screen when in reverse.

The JP-JTKT has an RCA output for aftermarket radios or monitors with selectable parking lines and a 160-degree viewing angle. Two different types of camera mounting brackets are available to cover models equipped with either a standard backup camera or models equipped with surround or 360 systems. (Surround or 360 systems are not retained with this kit.)

www.metraonline.com

FiTech
CAN Gauges

The new FiTech CAN Gauges (PN: 880828, 880829, and 880890) are a plug-n-play instrumentation solution for drivers utilizing FiTech’s electronic fuel injection and transmission controller systems. Monitor the speedometer, tachometer, or water temperature, quickly and conveniently by utilizing the existing FiTech sensors already setup on the vehicle.

The FiTech CAN Gauges feature through-the-dial white LED lighting with a lit pointer and match all existing AutoMeter Sport-Comp II gauges for seamless integration of non-CAN instruments to complete your entire dash. There is no need to run redundant sensors or gauge programming as everything is ready to go right out of the box to hookup to your existing FiTech systems.

www.fitechefi.com

Red Line Synthetic Oil
SuperCool BoilGuard

Red Line Synthetic Oil announced the launch of its new powersports antifreeze/coolant, SuperCool BoilGuard Fortified with WaterWetter. Formulated to lower coolant temperatures by as much as 20° F, the product is made for all two-stroke and four-stroke engines found in motorcycles, side-by-sides, ATVs, UTVs and snowmobiles.

Red Line’s new SuperCool BoilGuard is a pre-diluted, ready-to-use formula, designed to maximize the performance of powersports’ cooling systems where freeze protection is required.

Additionally, the product maintains superior protection against cavitation, corrosion, and erosion. SuperCool BoilGuard protects the entire cooling system, keeping new components in perfect condition while also preventing further damage to older components.

www.redlineoil.com

Go Rhino
CEROS Low Profile Roof Rack for Toyota Tacoma

Go Rhino's EROS Low Profile Roof Rack for ’16–’21 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab offers an aerodynamic, low-profile design that is application-specific and features Go Rhino’s exclusive 4-CORE mounting system.

The CEROS Rack features exclusive 4-CORE crossbars braced by an aluminum frame. The 4-CORE is an extruded track system of slotted bars that can accept any 1/4-in.-20 hex bolt or quick-release clamp, which means almost any accessory can be bolted to the rack. This system offers unlimited mounting options for accessories, gear and tools, which can be used interchangeably with Go Rhino’s 4-CORE-based XRS Xtreme Overland and SRM Roof Rack series.

The CEROS Rack was designed with integrated lighting options in mind. The frontmost crossbar can be used to mount a light bar or multiple cube lights, and the dropped edge of the fairing allows a single row light bar to remain flush with the frame’s topline, maintaining a sleek, streamlined look. Two openings along each of the rack’s side panels will fit most 6-in. single-row lights, which can be mounted with or without Go Rhino’s signature hex-patterned mesh screens. Along the frame’s upper lip, strategic mounting slots allow zip ties to be inserted to secure and hide the wiring from your lights.

www.gorhino.com

Aeromotive
'82-'92 Camaro 200 & 340 LPH Fuel Pump & Hanger

Upgrading your third- or fourth-generation Camaro fuel pump has never been easier thanks to our new Direct Drop-In Module. These assemblies fit directly into the stock fuel tank and can support up to 1,000 hp. Every module is available with the option of a 200-lph fuel pump or Stealth 340 pump.

Aeromotive’s ’82–’92 Camaro 200 and 340-LPH Fuel Pump and Hanger makes upgrading third- or fourth-generation Camaro fuel pumps an easier process with assemblies that fit directly into there stock fuel tank and support up to 1,000 hp.

Every module is available with the option of a 200-LPH fuel pump or Stealth 340 pump.

www.aeromotiveinc.com

Raptor Series
Magnum

Magnum by Raptor Series has introduced the newest addition to the company's growing product line with the Magnum RT Gen 2 Steps. The new design features a new and improved, 30% larger step area with raised slots providing easier vehicle entry and exit.

The steps are constructed of heavy-duty 14-gauge steel and designed to bolt to factory mounting locations using vehicle-specific mounting brackets. Magnum RT Gen 2 Steps are also coated with a 3 stage durable black powder coat finish that resists corrosion against elements.

www.raptorseries.com