By Della Domingo

Mike Rowe will participate in a live keynote Q&A, Monday, November 2, at 8:00 a.m. (PST) on SEMA360.

Mike Rowe, best known as creator and host of the hit TV series “Dirty Jobs,” will participate in a live keynote Q&A with industry icon Tanner Foust at SEMA360, powered by OPTIMA Batteries, Monday, November 2, at 8:00 a.m. (PST).

Available only on SEMA360, Rowe and Foust will engage in a casual, insightful and candid conversation about the state of the automotive aftermarket and the need to inspire more people to get involved in the aftermarket trade. As CEO of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, Rowe is the country’s leading advocate for the skilled trades and has a unique perspective about skilled labor and the automotive aftermarket.

The presentation will air live exclusively on SEMA360, Monday, November 2, at 8:00 a.m. (PST), just prior to the official opening of the inaugural SEMA360. As a trade-only event open to automotive aftermarket buyers, including but not limited to retailers, resellers, distributors, restylers and installers, logins will be provided to all those who register and are approved to participate. Early registration is recommended to avoid delays in login information being sent.

Additional details about SEMA360 taking place entirely online November 2-6, are available at www.sema360.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Caleb Morgan of The Retrofit Source has been named the SEMA Young Executives Network’s (YEN) newest Spotlight member. Find out what he enjoys most about working for his company, and what his approach is for making sure his meetings are as proactive as possible in his Q&A with SEMA.

SEMA: What is the best advice you ever received?

Caleb Morgan: “Everything happens for a reason, kiddo. What you make of the situation is what will determine your success.” – Grandpa

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

CM: The constant new knowledge and opportunities that I get to experience through this job is amazing. I learn new things every week and get the chance to always try something new here at The Retrofit Source. The people here are enthusiasts at heart so we're all great friends, and the management makes for great role models to follow.

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

CM: Out on the river fishing my heart out, or out at car meets talking with fellow enthusiasts about their passions and their builds. On rainy days, a little Xbox with my friends never hurts.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

CM: I prepare by being ready to listen and take as much away from the meeting as possible. Learning new game plans and strategies is very engaging and I try to be as proactive in the discussions as possible so moving forward we are all on the same page.

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

CM: Carroll Shelby. The sheer will and passion for automotive performance from this man is seriously inspiring and I would love nothing more than to sit and listen to his favorite car stories from the man himself!

By Ashley Reyes

Caleb Morgan of The Retrofit Source has been named the SEMA Young Executives Network’s (YEN) newest Spotlight member. Find out what he enjoys most about working for his company, and what his approach is for making sure his meetings are as proactive as possible in his Q&A with SEMA.

SEMA: What is the best advice you ever received?

Caleb Morgan: “Everything happens for a reason, kiddo. What you make of the situation is what will determine your success.” – Grandpa

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

CM: The constant new knowledge and opportunities that I get to experience through this job is amazing. I learn new things every week and get the chance to always try something new here at The Retrofit Source. The people here are enthusiasts at heart so we're all great friends, and the management makes for great role models to follow.

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

CM: Out on the river fishing my heart out, or out at car meets talking with fellow enthusiasts about their passions and their builds. On rainy days, a little Xbox with my friends never hurts.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

CM: I prepare by being ready to listen and take as much away from the meeting as possible. Learning new game plans and strategies is very engaging and I try to be as proactive in the discussions as possible so moving forward we are all on the same page.

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

CM: Carroll Shelby. The sheer will and passion for automotive performance from this man is seriously inspiring and I would love nothing more than to sit and listen to his favorite car stories from the man himself!

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is the largest database of specialty market product information.

Manufacturers whose products are shown here have achieved data excellence status by providing the desired product descriptions, digital assets, vehicle fitment and other sales-related facts to make it easy for retailers, jobbers and WDs to create engaging and informative product listings, giving customers confidence in their buying decision.

Products from these and other brands with rich data will be featured in future SEMA eNews issues.

American Car Craft
Corvette Alternator Covers for C5, C6, Z06 and C7

• Corvette Alternator Covers for C5, C6, Z06 and C7
• Officially Licensed GM Product
• 100% Stainless Steel
• Easy "bolt-on" installation takes about 10 minutes.

Base SKU: 033084 ’97-’04 C5 Corvette Deluxe Alternator Cover with Crossed Flags Inlay
7 Vinyl Carbon Fiber Inlay Color Options

Base SKU: 043122 | ’05-’13 Corvette C6 Deluxe Alternator Cover with Crossed Flags Emblem
15 Vinyl Inlay Color Options

SKU: 043127 | ’06-’13 Z06 Corvette Z06 Deluxe Alternator Cover
Polished with brushed top plate, brushed inlaid emblem with red vinyl inlay/ etched “505 HP”

Base SKU: 053091 | ’14-’19 C7 Corvette Alternator Cover Crossed Flags Emblem
13 Vinyl Inlay Color Options

American Car Craft designs and manufactures top-quality, award-winning custom car accessories and custom car parts for enthusiasts of American muscle cars, truck and Jeeps.

Phone: 727-861-1500
www.americancarcraft.com

ARIES
AdvantEDGE Ford F-150 Bull Bar (#2163100)

The AdvantEDGE bull bar is an aggressive bull bar option for modern trucks, featuring a patented design, a highly corrosion-resistant construction and an easy, no-drill installation. For ultimate customization, it comes with two integrated LED lights.

The AdvantEDGE bull bar is unlike any other. Its octagonal tubing and angular, A-frame shape give it an aggressive aftermarket look, and it is constructed from extruded aluminum alloy, making it strong, lightweight and rust-free.

• This bull bar fits the Ford F-150, including the latest 2020 models.
• Unique, eight-sided tube profile to complement the style of modern trucks
• Extruded, all-aluminum construction to be strong, lightweight and rust-free
• Crossbar equipped with two 2-in. flush-mount LEDs with grade-A chips #1501250
• Each light offers 2,200-lumen flood beam pattern
• LEDs feature waterproof aluminum housing and IP68-standard breather stamped aluminum, octagonal grid cover plate for a distinct look
• Tough carbide black powder coat finish with textured black cover plate
• Made to complement AdvantEDGE side bars and headache rack
• Track mounting system for easy, secure installation
• No-drill, vehicle-specific application for a custom fit
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts)

BOLT

“Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology”, a series of locks that open with your vehicle ignition key. This eliminates the need to carry around all of those extra keys. The BOLT Cable Lock is great for locking up your travel accessories.

BOLT Locks are make specific, and are compatible with Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Toyota and Nissan. Simply insert your key, turn it once and the lock memorizes your key code.

The line of locks is waterproof to withstand harsh weather, made of automotive grade materials and come with a limited lifetime warranty.

You can find your BOLT Lock at www.boltock.com.

CURT
RockerBall Cushion Hitch Ball (#40247)

RockerBall is a world-first cushion hitch trailer ball that can be bolted onto an existing, traditional ball mount to increase comfort, confidence and control while towing.

Engineered with ShockDrop technology, RockerBall dynamically absorbs jerking and jarring from your trailer at the coupling point. This produces quieter towing, increased driver control over the trailer and reduced strain on the vehicle's brakes, towing system and suspension, compared to a conventional metal-on-metal towing connection.

• Dynamic trailer ball featuring ShockDrop technology
• Dampens jerking and jarring from bumps and potholes for smoother towing
• Cushioned isolators reduce rattling and vibration for a more comfortable ride
• Reduces shock loads to the vehicle during sudden braking or acceleration
• Minimizes stress on tow vehicle's suspension and brakes for extended longevity
• Retrofits onto most existing ball mounts to improve current towing experience
• Virtually maintenance-free with no airbag or bearings to service
• Grease zerk fitting provides easy lubrication
• Anti-swivel base fits 2-1/2-in. wide ball mount tongues with 1-in. diameter hole
• Forged steel construction for dependable towing power
• Durable carbide black powder coat finish on base and chrome plating on ball
• Standard trailer ball diameter fits 2-in. couplers
• Rated for 7,500 lbs. gross trailer weight
• Tested for safety to meet SAE J684 specifications
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

HushMat
’97-’03 Ford F-150-250-350 Sound Deadening and Thermal Insulation

F-Series Regular and Extended Cab Truck sound deadening and thermal insulation material is designed to make every part of your vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable to drive and enjoy!  HushMat is an easy to install, USA-made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface.

No tools, glues and or special equipment needed to install HushMat. Simply peel and stick. HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a year, make and model specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers.

HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed.   

Visit www.hushmat.com or call 913-599-2600.

LEED
Brake Pressure Gauge Kit

A Brake Pressure Gauge will make diagnosing brake issues simple. With a Brake Pressure Gauge Kit from LEED Brakes you’ll be able to determine if Master Cylinder bore size is correct; Master Cylinder and Power Booster are functioning properly; Mechanical vs Hydraulic issues; Faulty Proportioning Valve.

You can also test front to rear brake bias & much more.

LEED Brakes Brake Pressure Gauge Kits include a gauge, 5/16x24, 3/8x24, M7x1.0, M8x1.25, M10x1.0, and M10x1.5 adapters, as well as an instruction and solutions guide.

LUVERNE
SlimGrip 5-in. Running Boards for ’19-’20 Ram 1500 Crew Cab (#416088-4055117)

LUVERNE SlimGrip running boards combine rugged style and durable construction to be the perfect truck side steps. They feature powder-coated aluminum construction, expanded metal treads, a sleek profile and angular end caps. They are also equipped with the VersaTrac bracket system for easy, no-drill installation.

For maximum traction on the trail or on the jobsite, each SlimGrip running board is built with expanded metal treads. These non-skid treads offer fleet-approved safety when entering or exiting your truck, and their metal design makes them highly durable. The open treads also allow dirt and snow to pass through, keeping the inside of your vehicle clean.

• Sleek, rugged style and corrosion-resistant build for offroad or work trucks
• Expanded metal treads for maximum traction and safety
• Open treads knock dirt and snow off boots to help keep the truck cab clean
• Powder-coated aluminum construction to be strong, lightweight and rust-free
• Angular end caps eliminate sharp corners and add aggressive style
• VersaTrac mounting system for easy installation and vehicle customization
• No-drill, vehicle-specific application for a custom fit
• Powder-coated brackets use stainless steel fasteners for lasting strength
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts)
• Assembled in USA

UWS 69-in. Truck Tool Box with Low Profile
#TBS-69-LP-MB

This popular crossover truck tool box features a low profile, meaning the lid is built lower than standard UWS models. This provides a better view out the rear cab window and additional clearance for other items in the truck bed.

The lid also features our patented RigidCore foam-filled design. Layered between two sheets of aluminum, this core greatly increases structural integrity to prevent warping and ensure smooth opening and closing.

• Patented RigidCore foam-filled lid to maximize strength and prevent binding
• Built lower on the bed rail for a better view out the rear window
• 0.058-in. extra-thick, one-piece aluminum tub holds heavy tools and cargo
• Stainless steel lock handles for security and corrosion-resistant operation
• Connecting rod allows for convenient operation from driver or passenger side
• Interior rod enclosure helps prevent bending or jamming of lock system
• Widespread handles are easy to reach from either side of the truck
• MicroSeal gasket helps seal out moisture, dust and dirt
• Lid self-opens to 90 degrees for convenient operation and loading
• Tool trays and built-in screwdriver holders for easy organization
• Three-compartment sliding tray for convenient small item storage and retrieval
• Multiple box sizes available for a custom fit on each truck application
• Easy to install with pre-drilled mounting slots and included hardware
• Assembled in USA
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is the largest database of specialty market product information.

Manufacturers whose products are shown here have achieved data excellence status by providing the desired product descriptions, digital assets, vehicle fitment and other sales-related facts to make it easy for retailers, jobbers and WDs to create engaging and informative product listings, giving customers confidence in their buying decision.

Products from these and other brands with rich data will be featured in future SEMA eNews issues.

American Car Craft
Corvette Alternator Covers for C5, C6, Z06 and C7

• Corvette Alternator Covers for C5, C6, Z06 and C7
• Officially Licensed GM Product
• 100% Stainless Steel
• Easy "bolt-on" installation takes about 10 minutes.

Base SKU: 033084 ’97-’04 C5 Corvette Deluxe Alternator Cover with Crossed Flags Inlay
7 Vinyl Carbon Fiber Inlay Color Options

Base SKU: 043122 | ’05-’13 Corvette C6 Deluxe Alternator Cover with Crossed Flags Emblem
15 Vinyl Inlay Color Options

SKU: 043127 | ’06-’13 Z06 Corvette Z06 Deluxe Alternator Cover
Polished with brushed top plate, brushed inlaid emblem with red vinyl inlay/ etched “505 HP”

Base SKU: 053091 | ’14-’19 C7 Corvette Alternator Cover Crossed Flags Emblem
13 Vinyl Inlay Color Options

American Car Craft designs and manufactures top-quality, award-winning custom car accessories and custom car parts for enthusiasts of American muscle cars, truck and Jeeps.

Phone: 727-861-1500
www.americancarcraft.com

ARIES
AdvantEDGE Ford F-150 Bull Bar (#2163100)

The AdvantEDGE bull bar is an aggressive bull bar option for modern trucks, featuring a patented design, a highly corrosion-resistant construction and an easy, no-drill installation. For ultimate customization, it comes with two integrated LED lights.

The AdvantEDGE bull bar is unlike any other. Its octagonal tubing and angular, A-frame shape give it an aggressive aftermarket look, and it is constructed from extruded aluminum alloy, making it strong, lightweight and rust-free.

• This bull bar fits the Ford F-150, including the latest 2020 models.
• Unique, eight-sided tube profile to complement the style of modern trucks
• Extruded, all-aluminum construction to be strong, lightweight and rust-free
• Crossbar equipped with two 2-in. flush-mount LEDs with grade-A chips #1501250
• Each light offers 2,200-lumen flood beam pattern
• LEDs feature waterproof aluminum housing and IP68-standard breather stamped aluminum, octagonal grid cover plate for a distinct look
• Tough carbide black powder coat finish with textured black cover plate
• Made to complement AdvantEDGE side bars and headache rack
• Track mounting system for easy, secure installation
• No-drill, vehicle-specific application for a custom fit
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts)

BOLT

“Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology”, a series of locks that open with your vehicle ignition key. This eliminates the need to carry around all of those extra keys. The BOLT Cable Lock is great for locking up your travel accessories.

BOLT Locks are make specific, and are compatible with Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Toyota and Nissan. Simply insert your key, turn it once and the lock memorizes your key code.

The line of locks is waterproof to withstand harsh weather, made of automotive grade materials and come with a limited lifetime warranty.

You can find your BOLT Lock at www.boltock.com.

CURT
RockerBall Cushion Hitch Ball (#40247)

RockerBall is a world-first cushion hitch trailer ball that can be bolted onto an existing, traditional ball mount to increase comfort, confidence and control while towing.

Engineered with ShockDrop technology, RockerBall dynamically absorbs jerking and jarring from your trailer at the coupling point. This produces quieter towing, increased driver control over the trailer and reduced strain on the vehicle's brakes, towing system and suspension, compared to a conventional metal-on-metal towing connection.

• Dynamic trailer ball featuring ShockDrop technology
• Dampens jerking and jarring from bumps and potholes for smoother towing
• Cushioned isolators reduce rattling and vibration for a more comfortable ride
• Reduces shock loads to the vehicle during sudden braking or acceleration
• Minimizes stress on tow vehicle's suspension and brakes for extended longevity
• Retrofits onto most existing ball mounts to improve current towing experience
• Virtually maintenance-free with no airbag or bearings to service
• Grease zerk fitting provides easy lubrication
• Anti-swivel base fits 2-1/2-in. wide ball mount tongues with 1-in. diameter hole
• Forged steel construction for dependable towing power
• Durable carbide black powder coat finish on base and chrome plating on ball
• Standard trailer ball diameter fits 2-in. couplers
• Rated for 7,500 lbs. gross trailer weight
• Tested for safety to meet SAE J684 specifications
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

HushMat
’97-’03 Ford F-150-250-350 Sound Deadening and Thermal Insulation

F-Series Regular and Extended Cab Truck sound deadening and thermal insulation material is designed to make every part of your vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable to drive and enjoy!  HushMat is an easy to install, USA-made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface.

No tools, glues and or special equipment needed to install HushMat. Simply peel and stick. HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a year, make and model specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers.

HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed.   

Visit www.hushmat.com or call 913-599-2600.

LEED
Brake Pressure Gauge Kit

A Brake Pressure Gauge will make diagnosing brake issues simple. With a Brake Pressure Gauge Kit from LEED Brakes you’ll be able to determine if Master Cylinder bore size is correct; Master Cylinder and Power Booster are functioning properly; Mechanical vs Hydraulic issues; Faulty Proportioning Valve.

You can also test front to rear brake bias & much more.

LEED Brakes Brake Pressure Gauge Kits include a gauge, 5/16x24, 3/8x24, M7x1.0, M8x1.25, M10x1.0, and M10x1.5 adapters, as well as an instruction and solutions guide.

LUVERNE
SlimGrip 5-in. Running Boards for ’19-’20 Ram 1500 Crew Cab (#416088-4055117)

LUVERNE SlimGrip running boards combine rugged style and durable construction to be the perfect truck side steps. They feature powder-coated aluminum construction, expanded metal treads, a sleek profile and angular end caps. They are also equipped with the VersaTrac bracket system for easy, no-drill installation.

For maximum traction on the trail or on the jobsite, each SlimGrip running board is built with expanded metal treads. These non-skid treads offer fleet-approved safety when entering or exiting your truck, and their metal design makes them highly durable. The open treads also allow dirt and snow to pass through, keeping the inside of your vehicle clean.

• Sleek, rugged style and corrosion-resistant build for offroad or work trucks
• Expanded metal treads for maximum traction and safety
• Open treads knock dirt and snow off boots to help keep the truck cab clean
• Powder-coated aluminum construction to be strong, lightweight and rust-free
• Angular end caps eliminate sharp corners and add aggressive style
• VersaTrac mounting system for easy installation and vehicle customization
• No-drill, vehicle-specific application for a custom fit
• Powder-coated brackets use stainless steel fasteners for lasting strength
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts)
• Assembled in USA

UWS 69-in. Truck Tool Box with Low Profile
#TBS-69-LP-MB

This popular crossover truck tool box features a low profile, meaning the lid is built lower than standard UWS models. This provides a better view out the rear cab window and additional clearance for other items in the truck bed.

The lid also features our patented RigidCore foam-filled design. Layered between two sheets of aluminum, this core greatly increases structural integrity to prevent warping and ensure smooth opening and closing.

• Patented RigidCore foam-filled lid to maximize strength and prevent binding
• Built lower on the bed rail for a better view out the rear window
• 0.058-in. extra-thick, one-piece aluminum tub holds heavy tools and cargo
• Stainless steel lock handles for security and corrosion-resistant operation
• Connecting rod allows for convenient operation from driver or passenger side
• Interior rod enclosure helps prevent bending or jamming of lock system
• Widespread handles are easy to reach from either side of the truck
• MicroSeal gasket helps seal out moisture, dust and dirt
• Lid self-opens to 90 degrees for convenient operation and loading
• Tool trays and built-in screwdriver holders for easy organization
• Three-compartment sliding tray for convenient small item storage and retrieval
• Multiple box sizes available for a custom fit on each truck application
• Easy to install with pre-drilled mounting slots and included hardware
• Assembled in USA
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

By Ashley Reyes

Jay Ehret of Pickup Outfitters has been named the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) newest volunteer spotlight member. Ehret currently volunteers on the PRO Select Committee, and is the president of his company—an aftermarket truck top and accessory dealer. In his Q&A with SEMA, Ehret shares the one small move he made that had a huge impact on his bottom line and how volunteering for PRO has impacted his professional career.

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling/manufacturing?    

Jay Ehret: We bought the business as an investment.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO? How has it or will it impact you?    

JE: I decided to get involved with PRO after attending my first long-range planning meeting, which I attended so I could get a tour of Mcity and the American Center for Mobility. I was so impressed with the Select Committee members and their passion to help the industry. The PRO Council just seemed like a great way to get involved and help me learn the industry.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?    

JE: Get involved and never stop learning. The industry is constantly evolving, and if you stand on the sidelines you can get stagnant.

SEMA: What is your dream vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?    

JE: My dream vehicle is my ’04 Stoner Skiff bay boat. (Stoner is the brand name, by the way.) About once a month, you will find me in bays on the Texas coast catching reds and trout, mostly in the Port O Connor area.

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

JE: The best professional advice I’ve ever received is from a coach who told me to start charging for shop supplies. That one small move has had a huge impact to my bottom line. The best personal advice I’ve received is from Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

JE: It helps that it’s a profitable industry, but really I enjoy what we do to vehicles. I also enjoy going to PRO Council meetings, I look forward to the SEMA Show, and I am enriched by meeting other shop owners.

SEMA: On a Saturday, where can you be found?

JE: Either at the shop doing some paperwork, on the coast or out on the lake.

By Ashley Reyes

Jay Ehret of Pickup Outfitters has been named the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) newest volunteer spotlight member. Ehret currently volunteers on the PRO Select Committee, and is the president of his company—an aftermarket truck top and accessory dealer. In his Q&A with SEMA, Ehret shares the one small move he made that had a huge impact on his bottom line and how volunteering for PRO has impacted his professional career.

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling/manufacturing?    

Jay Ehret: We bought the business as an investment.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO? How has it or will it impact you?    

JE: I decided to get involved with PRO after attending my first long-range planning meeting, which I attended so I could get a tour of Mcity and the American Center for Mobility. I was so impressed with the Select Committee members and their passion to help the industry. The PRO Council just seemed like a great way to get involved and help me learn the industry.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?    

JE: Get involved and never stop learning. The industry is constantly evolving, and if you stand on the sidelines you can get stagnant.

SEMA: What is your dream vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?    

JE: My dream vehicle is my ’04 Stoner Skiff bay boat. (Stoner is the brand name, by the way.) About once a month, you will find me in bays on the Texas coast catching reds and trout, mostly in the Port O Connor area.

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

JE: The best professional advice I’ve ever received is from a coach who told me to start charging for shop supplies. That one small move has had a huge impact to my bottom line. The best personal advice I’ve received is from Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

JE: It helps that it’s a profitable industry, but really I enjoy what we do to vehicles. I also enjoy going to PRO Council meetings, I look forward to the SEMA Show, and I am enriched by meeting other shop owners.

SEMA: On a Saturday, where can you be found?

JE: Either at the shop doing some paperwork, on the coast or out on the lake.

By Kyle Cheng

New vehicle sales are up 7.6% in September and are just 3.1% below the levels seen in January.

Despite uncertainty over government stimulus and the virus, the overall economy continues its recovery and consumers continue to spend money. Consumer confidence improved in September, as individuals felt better about both today and the months ahead.

Other key insights from the latest “SEMA Industry Indicators Report”:

• New vehicle sales are up 7.6% in September and are just 3.1% below the levels seen in January.
• New truck and SUV sales in September were higher than January for the first time.
• Consumer spending on vehicles and parts in August 2020 was up 12.2% from August 2019—the third consecutive month that spending was above pre-pandemic levels.
• Manufacturing added 66,000 jobs in September and has now regained 52.5% of all jobs lost from the pandemic.

Want more information on the trends affecting the specialty-equipment industry? Download the October “SEMA Industry Indicators Report,” available for free at www.sema.org/research.

By Kyle Cheng

New vehicle sales are up 7.6% in September and are just 3.1% below the levels seen in January.

Despite uncertainty over government stimulus and the virus, the overall economy continues its recovery and consumers continue to spend money. Consumer confidence improved in September, as individuals felt better about both today and the months ahead.

Other key insights from the latest “SEMA Industry Indicators Report”:

• New vehicle sales are up 7.6% in September and are just 3.1% below the levels seen in January.
• New truck and SUV sales in September were higher than January for the first time.
• Consumer spending on vehicles and parts in August 2020 was up 12.2% from August 2019—the third consecutive month that spending was above pre-pandemic levels.
• Manufacturing added 66,000 jobs in September and has now regained 52.5% of all jobs lost from the pandemic.

Want more information on the trends affecting the specialty-equipment industry? Download the October “SEMA Industry Indicators Report,” available for free at www.sema.org/research.

By Richard Hail

Todd Budde’s entry into SEMA Battle of the Builders is a custom ’93 Mazda RX-7 featuring the front end of a ’70s Series 1 RX-3 grafted onto it.

Todd Budde is the owner/operater at FabFitters LLC, Located in La Vernia, Texas. For more than 10 years, his shop has been turning out custom and original designs. Budde’s father was a Supermodfied racer, so there was always a race car in the garage that he was getting to work on. His passion for unique cars expanded from there.

Budde’s entry into SEMA Battle of the Builders is a custom ’93 Mazda RX-7 featuring the front end of a ’70s Series 1 RX-3 grafted onto it. The grille was updated and modernized with LED projector headlights. The fenders and side panels are an alloy of RX-7, RX-3, BMW M3 and VW Beetle sheet metals.

The original rotary engine was swapped out for a high-performance block manufactured by Billet Pro out of Australia. Two Garrett G42-1200 turbos are bolted onto the Wankel for some added freeway passing capabilities. The transmission, normally snugged up right behind the engine, has been moved to the rear of the car. PTP Turbo Blankets 3D-scanned the entire exhaust system and came back with a custom set of blankets to keep the heat output to a minimum.

Budde’s love of carbon fiber is evident as you can see it adorning the mirrors, skirts, interior panels and more. EVO-R taillights have been fitted to the rear and features the same sequential turn signal pattern as a Lamborghini. Wilwood brakes are evident behind the 19-in. Vossen wheels, which are wrapped in wide, low-profile rubber.

“So not only is it an opportunity for the trade to put their products out there, it’s also an opportunity for us as car builders to do innovative things like this,” says Budde. He continues, “No other platform allows us to take member products, put them together many times in custom formats such as this, and then showcase them and then have the world see them.”

Visit the SEMA Show YouTube Channel for more videos and builder interviews, and be sure to subscribe so that you don’t miss future episodes. For more details about the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition, visit www.semabotb.com.

Qualified industry personnel interested in attending SEMA360, the exclusive trade-only online marketplace taking place November 2-6, 2020, are invited to register at www.sema360.com.