By Della Domingo

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will join the second annual Deuce’s Wild Competition Car Show at the Atlantic City Convention Center in New Jersey, March 11–13, 2021. In addition to hosting an HRIA networking reception and sponsoring a Hot Rod Alley in the event’s new manufacturer’s midway, SEMA and HRIA will also present the new $7,500 “Build of the Show” award.

“HRIA is excited to join Deuce’s Wild and make a formal appearance on the East Coast, where the hot-rod market is strong,” said HRIA Chairman Jeff Major of Bed Wood & Parts. “There are hundreds of companies and builders who we never get the chance to meet with, and who may not be familiar with SEMA or the HRIA. We are excited to share with them how the association and council helps the hot-rod industry.”

Joining SEMA with a booth in Hot Rod Alley will be 10 HRIA member manufacturers. Each manufacturer will contribute $500 toward the “Build of the Show” award, and SEMA/HRIA will contribute $2,500 for a total award of $7,500.

“We had a great turn out at our inaugural Deuce’s Wild Car Show early this year, and with SEMA and HRIA supporting the 2021 event, we anticipate that it will be even better,” said Deuce’s Wild organizer and award-wining hot-rod builder Ed Denkenberger. “The hot-rod market in this northeast area has been longing for a SEMA presence for many, many years, and I am so proud that Deuce’s Wild and GPK Auctions have a hand in making it happen.”

GPK Auctions holds one of the longest-running classic-car auctions on the east coast, and provides the venue for the Deuce’s Wild event.

HRIA volunteers are currently reaching out to member manufacturers to confirm companies for the 10 available booths in Hot Rod Alley. HRIA manufacturers who are interested in participating may also reach out to HRIA SEMA staff liaison Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

A cool project vehicle will make the cover of magazines and even go viral on social media, but the builders are often the unsung heroes. Get to know and hear from some of the industry’s top vehicle builders by taking part in a SEMA360 Education Seminar.  

Taking place 100% online, November 2–6, SEMA360 is the new trade-only event for the automotive specialty-equipment industry that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, education and manufacturer/buyer connections. Over the course of five days, the Education Seminar program will include more than 30 sessions all available at no additional cost to those who are already signed up for SEMA360.

Below are four must-attend seminars featuring builders as they share how they started in the industry, the challenges they’ve faced and what they see for the future. These sessions will help inspire other builders, while providing others in the industry with insight and knowledge as well. All sessions and registration for SEMA360 can be found at www.sema360.com.  

Tuesday, November 3  
9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m. (Pacific) – Brew Talks: Builders Edition  
Moderator: Kyle Tucker, Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.
Speakers: Sabra Johnson (City Classic Cars), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers)

Tuesday, November 3
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Off Road Builders Panel—Powered by TORA
Moderator: Sean Holman, MotorTrend Group
Speakers: Doug DeBerti (Deberti Design), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers), Sara “Bogi” Lateiner (Bogi’s Garage)

Thursday, November 5
8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Hot-Rod Builders Panel—Powered by HRIA
Moderator: Rick Love (Vintage Air Inc.)
Speakers: Bobby Alloway (Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop), Brian Brennan (In The Garage Media), Kyle Tucker (Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.)

Friday, November 6
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Automotive Restoration Builders Panel—Powered by ARMO
Moderator: Sabra Johnson (City Classic Cars)
Speakers: Steve Cook (Steve Cook Creations), Art Morrison (Art Morrison Enterprises), Dan Short (FantomWorks)

Sign up for seminars when registering for SEMA360 at www.sema360.com. Those who are already signed up for SEMA360 can access their accounts to add these seminars by visiting www.sema360.com.

View the full SEMA360 seminar schedule.  

By Ashley Reyes

A cool project vehicle will make the cover of magazines and even go viral on social media, but the builders are often the unsung heroes. Get to know and hear from some of the industry’s top vehicle builders by taking part in a SEMA360 Education Seminar.  

Taking place 100% online, November 2–6, SEMA360 is the new trade-only event for the automotive specialty-equipment industry that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, education and manufacturer/buyer connections. Over the course of five days, the Education Seminar program will include more than 30 sessions all available at no additional cost to those who are already signed up for SEMA360.

Below are four must-attend seminars featuring builders as they share how they started in the industry, the challenges they’ve faced and what they see for the future. These sessions will help inspire other builders, while providing others in the industry with insight and knowledge as well. All sessions and registration for SEMA360 can be found at www.sema360.com.  

Tuesday, November 3  
9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m. (Pacific) – Brew Talks: Builders Edition  
Moderator: Kyle Tucker, Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.
Speakers: Sabra Johnson (City Classic Cars), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers)

Tuesday, November 3
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Off Road Builders Panel—Powered by TORA
Moderator: Sean Holman, MotorTrend Group
Speakers: Doug DeBerti (Deberti Design), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers), Sara “Bogi” Lateiner (Bogi’s Garage)

Thursday, November 5
8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Hot-Rod Builders Panel—Powered by HRIA
Moderator: Rick Love (Vintage Air Inc.)
Speakers: Bobby Alloway (Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop), Brian Brennan (In The Garage Media), Kyle Tucker (Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.)

Friday, November 6
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Automotive Restoration Builders Panel—Powered by ARMO
Moderator: Sabra Johnson (City Classic Cars)
Speakers: Steve Cook (Steve Cook Creations), Art Morrison (Art Morrison Enterprises), Dan Short (FantomWorks)

Sign up for seminars when registering for SEMA360 at www.sema360.com. Those who are already signed up for SEMA360 can access their accounts to add these seminars by visiting www.sema360.com.

View the full SEMA360 seminar schedule.  

By Ashley Reyes

A cool project vehicle will make the cover of magazines and even go viral on social media, but the builders are often the unsung heroes. Get to know and hear from some of the industry’s top vehicle builders by taking part in a SEMA360 Education Seminar.  

Taking place 100% online, November 2–6, SEMA360 is the new trade-only event for the automotive specialty-equipment industry that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, education and manufacturer/buyer connections. Over the course of five days, the Education Seminar program will include more than 30 sessions all available at no additional cost to those who are already signed up for SEMA360.

Below are four must-attend seminars featuring builders as they share how they started in the industry, the challenges they’ve faced and what they see for the future. These sessions will help inspire other builders, while providing others in the industry with insight and knowledge as well. All sessions and registration for SEMA360 can be found at www.sema360.com.  

Tuesday, November 3  
9:00 a.m.–9:20 a.m. (Pacific) – Brew Talks: Builders Edition  
Moderator: Kyle Tucker, Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.
Speakers: Sabra Johnson (City Classic Cars), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers)

Tuesday, November 3
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Off Road Builders Panel—Powered by TORA
Moderator: Sean Holman, MotorTrend Group
Speakers: Doug DeBerti (Deberti Design), Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers), Sara “Bogi” Lateiner (Bogi’s Garage)

Thursday, November 5
8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Hot-Rod Builders Panel—Powered by HRIA
Moderator: Rick Love (Vintage Air Inc.)
Speakers: Bobby Alloway (Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop), Brian Brennan (In The Garage Media), Kyle Tucker (Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.)

Friday, November 6
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (Pacific) – Automotive Restoration Builders Panel—Powered by ARMO
Moderator: Sabra Johnson (City Classic Cars)
Speakers: Steve Cook (Steve Cook Creations), Art Morrison (Art Morrison Enterprises), Dan Short (FantomWorks)

Sign up for seminars when registering for SEMA360 at www.sema360.com. Those who are already signed up for SEMA360 can access their accounts to add these seminars by visiting www.sema360.com.

View the full SEMA360 seminar schedule.  

By Ashley Reyes

Wendy Miles is  a sales manager for THE SHOP and a proud owner of a well-modified Nissan Xterra.

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance’s (TORA) newest Volunteer Spotlight member is Wendy Miles of THE SHOP magazine. Miles is a current TORA Select Committee volunteer, a sales manager for THE SHOP and a proud owner of a well-modified Nissan Xterra. Check out her Q&A with SEMA to learn more about her experience volunteering for TORA and what her advice is for maintaining integrity and treating everyone in a respectful manner.

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?    

Wendy Miles: I had been working for a magazine in the RV industry when a position opened at THE SHOP. Having never owned an RV, but having had an off-road and sports car (I still hope to finish and race), I was eager to make the move.

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

WM: We only get one life and it is up to us to make a positive impact on the world while we can. For that reason, I enjoy volunteering in various areas. Some are community-service-based and others are leadership roles.   

I have met so many wonderful people through TORA, who all share a passion for this segment of the industry and life itself. Everyone I have met has been fun and eager to help others.

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

WM: While the industry is large, just about everyone is connected in some way or another. Therefore, the standard life advice of maintaining integrity and treating everyone in a respectful manner is even more important. If you don’t, it will find its way around. You may not like everyone you meet, but it’s important to recognize the value they provide. Also, network, network, network.

SEMA: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?    

WM: I'm not one to buy a vehicle strictly based on its practicality. I currently have a well-modified Nissan Xterra that I enjoy taking off-road (and occasionally breaking) on the trails of Colorado and Utah. I am also eager to see the capabilities of the Rivian R1S. Will the “Crazy Redhead” ever go full electric? We shall see, but I’m going to need to modify it and make it my own.

By Ashley Reyes

Wendy Miles is  a sales manager for THE SHOP and a proud owner of a well-modified Nissan Xterra.

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance’s (TORA) newest Volunteer Spotlight member is Wendy Miles of THE SHOP magazine. Miles is a current TORA Select Committee volunteer, a sales manager for THE SHOP and a proud owner of a well-modified Nissan Xterra. Check out her Q&A with SEMA to learn more about her experience volunteering for TORA and what her advice is for maintaining integrity and treating everyone in a respectful manner.

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?    

Wendy Miles: I had been working for a magazine in the RV industry when a position opened at THE SHOP. Having never owned an RV, but having had an off-road and sports car (I still hope to finish and race), I was eager to make the move.

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

WM: We only get one life and it is up to us to make a positive impact on the world while we can. For that reason, I enjoy volunteering in various areas. Some are community-service-based and others are leadership roles.   

I have met so many wonderful people through TORA, who all share a passion for this segment of the industry and life itself. Everyone I have met has been fun and eager to help others.

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

WM: While the industry is large, just about everyone is connected in some way or another. Therefore, the standard life advice of maintaining integrity and treating everyone in a respectful manner is even more important. If you don’t, it will find its way around. You may not like everyone you meet, but it’s important to recognize the value they provide. Also, network, network, network.

SEMA: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?    

WM: I'm not one to buy a vehicle strictly based on its practicality. I currently have a well-modified Nissan Xterra that I enjoy taking off-road (and occasionally breaking) on the trails of Colorado and Utah. I am also eager to see the capabilities of the Rivian R1S. Will the “Crazy Redhead” ever go full electric? We shall see, but I’m going to need to modify it and make it my own.

By Della Domingo

Last week’s SEMA eNews featured several specials and details on what some manufacturers will showcase in SEMA360, November 2–6, at www.sema360.com.

Below, are details from more manufacturers and what attendees can expect to see during the online event.

• EMM Specialties/COLAD is launching the Colad UV Fast Curing System, an easy-to-use, lightweight system with a powerful UV light and a suite of associated products, such as body filler putties and PPE (gloves, goggles, etc). EMM will live-stream demos of the product from a booth that has been purpose-built for SEMA360 in an open studio space next to their offices.
• 4WP Factory is introducing its new line of 4WP Factory Xtreme R/T tires, featuring a robust tread design and a three-ply sidewall intended to give the vehicle a rugged look while the firm side lugs protect from any sharp objects.
• Challenger Lifts/Snap-on Total Shop Solution is showcasing its all-new VLE10 Versymmetric Car Lift. Featuring the popular economy-grade 10,000-lb. two-post lift, the VLE10 incorporates the Versymmetric Technology, which safely accommodates vehicles with either a symmetric or an asymmetric center of gravity using heavy-duty columns and arms. 
• Eagle Abrasives is promoting new Tolecut products, and new starter kits that make it easy to test-drive Eagle’s total dry hi-tech sanding system from sandpaper to interface pads. The company is offering a free box of Hi-Tech Sanding Discs to those who purchase a Proma-X Sander from any jobber, and offering additional giveaways through its Instagram account.
• XCLUTCH is showcasing its new 9.5-in. single-disc performance street and motorsport upgrades to suit VW Golf GTI MK-5, 6 and 7. The kits are designed and engineered to offer the ultimate balance between performance and drivability, and have been designed around XClutch’s race-inspired alloy pressure plate that offers low pedal effort, increased clamping force and low rotational inertia. Also on display will be a range of 9.0-in. twin-disc upgrades for even higher torque capacity.
• Morimoto Lighting is featuring LED headlights for the ’09–’20 Nissan Frontier, updated LED headlights for the ’18–’20 Ford F-150, LED taillights for the ’10–’14 Ford Mustang and LED headlights for the ’20-plus Ford F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty.
• Intellitronix is featuring four new products: Ford Truck Super Duty ’11–’16 F-250, F-350 Off-Road Lights FSL001, Chevy Truck ’67–’72 Analog Gauge Panel AP6003, 6-Gauge Analog Universal Color Needles AP30002, and the 6-Gauge Analog Universal 3D Panel AP10002.
• Vortech Superchargers is introducing a new system for the ’20 Ford Mustang GT. Utilizing the venerable V-3 JT-Trim supercharger and an air-to-air charge cooler, the complete system can boost a stock 5.0 GT to 692HP and 584 LB/FT Torque with 7.5 to 8.5 PSI using CA 91 Octane fuel. They will also feature its supercharging system for the Dodge Hemi and its Big Block Chevy V-30 Bracket.
• Pareto Point Industries is offering special low prices for its TopDog-V Parallel-Flow Advanced Oil Filtration System, as well as adding a second premium advanced filter and six magnets with caps for additional capture of ferrous debris. The filtration system offers enthusiasts, off-roaders, racers and working vehicle owners/operators improved engine performance, increased mileage and provides environmental benefits.
• T.V.K. Industries Inc. is featuring the new sensor system for SURESHIFTER and SUREMATIC illuminated gear selection shift knobs and levers. The system receives the gear selection input signal from a Dakota Digital GSS-3000 sensor device, which is then transmitted to the SURESHIFTER/SUREMATIC illuminated gear selection display in the shift knob or shift lever. A similar sensor device can now be retrofitted to multiple transfer case shifters for activating the RangeFindrPro LED illuminated gear selection shift knobs in off-road 4WD applications.
• Metra Electronics Corporation is offering new dash kits for the ’16–’20 Mazda CX-3 and the ’19–’20 Toyota Yaris. The kits fit radios with an “L”-shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen, like the Alpine iLX-207. The kit is also compatible with Pioneer’s 6.8-in. modular radios and has special brackets included for installation of the Pioneer DMH-C2550NEX and MNH-C2500NEX touchscreen in-dash receivers.

View more special discounts and details.

As a 100% online event created to fill the void of the in-person SEMA Show not taking place in Las Vegas, SEMA360 provides the industry with a trade-only platform that provides manufacturers and resellers an opportunity to connect and focus on new products, vehicles, education and doing business. Attendance is not open to the general public, but is available to industry buyers, installers, restylers, distributors and Learn more by visiting www.sema360.com.  

Manufacturers who have special SEMA360 discounts, or who would like to promote their SEMA360 plans and be included on the list above, should email Kelly Clancy at kellyc@sema.org.

By Della Domingo

Last week’s SEMA eNews featured several specials and details on what some manufacturers will showcase in SEMA360, November 2–6, at www.sema360.com.

Below, are details from more manufacturers and what attendees can expect to see during the online event.

• EMM Specialties/COLAD is launching the Colad UV Fast Curing System, an easy-to-use, lightweight system with a powerful UV light and a suite of associated products, such as body filler putties and PPE (gloves, goggles, etc). EMM will live-stream demos of the product from a booth that has been purpose-built for SEMA360 in an open studio space next to their offices.
• 4WP Factory is introducing its new line of 4WP Factory Xtreme R/T tires, featuring a robust tread design and a three-ply sidewall intended to give the vehicle a rugged look while the firm side lugs protect from any sharp objects.
• Challenger Lifts/Snap-on Total Shop Solution is showcasing its all-new VLE10 Versymmetric Car Lift. Featuring the popular economy-grade 10,000-lb. two-post lift, the VLE10 incorporates the Versymmetric Technology, which safely accommodates vehicles with either a symmetric or an asymmetric center of gravity using heavy-duty columns and arms. 
• Eagle Abrasives is promoting new Tolecut products, and new starter kits that make it easy to test-drive Eagle’s total dry hi-tech sanding system from sandpaper to interface pads. The company is offering a free box of Hi-Tech Sanding Discs to those who purchase a Proma-X Sander from any jobber, and offering additional giveaways through its Instagram account.
• XCLUTCH is showcasing its new 9.5-in. single-disc performance street and motorsport upgrades to suit VW Golf GTI MK-5, 6 and 7. The kits are designed and engineered to offer the ultimate balance between performance and drivability, and have been designed around XClutch’s race-inspired alloy pressure plate that offers low pedal effort, increased clamping force and low rotational inertia. Also on display will be a range of 9.0-in. twin-disc upgrades for even higher torque capacity.
• Morimoto Lighting is featuring LED headlights for the ’09–’20 Nissan Frontier, updated LED headlights for the ’18–’20 Ford F-150, LED taillights for the ’10–’14 Ford Mustang and LED headlights for the ’20-plus Ford F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty.
• Intellitronix is featuring four new products: Ford Truck Super Duty ’11–’16 F-250, F-350 Off-Road Lights FSL001, Chevy Truck ’67–’72 Analog Gauge Panel AP6003, 6-Gauge Analog Universal Color Needles AP30002, and the 6-Gauge Analog Universal 3D Panel AP10002.
• Vortech Superchargers is introducing a new system for the ’20 Ford Mustang GT. Utilizing the venerable V-3 JT-Trim supercharger and an air-to-air charge cooler, the complete system can boost a stock 5.0 GT to 692HP and 584 LB/FT Torque with 7.5 to 8.5 PSI using CA 91 Octane fuel. They will also feature its supercharging system for the Dodge Hemi and its Big Block Chevy V-30 Bracket.
• Pareto Point Industries is offering special low prices for its TopDog-V Parallel-Flow Advanced Oil Filtration System, as well as adding a second premium advanced filter and six magnets with caps for additional capture of ferrous debris. The filtration system offers enthusiasts, off-roaders, racers and working vehicle owners/operators improved engine performance, increased mileage and provides environmental benefits.
• T.V.K. Industries Inc. is featuring the new sensor system for SURESHIFTER and SUREMATIC illuminated gear selection shift knobs and levers. The system receives the gear selection input signal from a Dakota Digital GSS-3000 sensor device, which is then transmitted to the SURESHIFTER/SUREMATIC illuminated gear selection display in the shift knob or shift lever. A similar sensor device can now be retrofitted to multiple transfer case shifters for activating the RangeFindrPro LED illuminated gear selection shift knobs in off-road 4WD applications.
• Metra Electronics Corporation is offering new dash kits for the ’16–’20 Mazda CX-3 and the ’19–’20 Toyota Yaris. The kits fit radios with an “L”-shaped chassis design with the radio chassis at the bottom of the screen, like the Alpine iLX-207. The kit is also compatible with Pioneer’s 6.8-in. modular radios and has special brackets included for installation of the Pioneer DMH-C2550NEX and MNH-C2500NEX touchscreen in-dash receivers.

View more special discounts and details.

As a 100% online event created to fill the void of the in-person SEMA Show not taking place in Las Vegas, SEMA360 provides the industry with a trade-only platform that provides manufacturers and resellers an opportunity to connect and focus on new products, vehicles, education and doing business. Attendance is not open to the general public, but is available to industry buyers, installers, restylers, distributors and Learn more by visiting www.sema360.com.  

Manufacturers who have special SEMA360 discounts, or who would like to promote their SEMA360 plans and be included on the list above, should email Kelly Clancy at kellyc@sema.org.

By Kyle Cheng

Findings from the “SEMA State of the Consumer Report—Fall 2020” reveal that consumers are getting back on the road, feeling confident about their financial position, and spending at retailers again.

The last few months have been disruptive to many people, but new research shows that American consumers are adapting and moving past the crisis. Findings from the “SEMA State of the Consumer Report—Fall 2020” reveal that consumers are getting back on the road, feeling confident about their financial position, and spending at retailers again. Among the specific findings are:

• Retail spending in the U.S. hit a two-decade high of $482 billion in August, rebounding from the lows seen in March and April.
• Spending at auto parts and motor vehicle dealers hit a high of $110 billion.
• Approximately 1.34 million cars were sold in September 2020, a 6% jump from September 2019.
• About 74% of consumers report that their current financial status is better or at least the same as it was last year.
• 63% report saving at least a little of their money, compared to only 13% who are drawing on savings or running into debt.

When it comes to parts sales within the specialty-equipment industry specifically, SEMA expects sales to drop in 2020 but quickly bounce back over the next few years as consumers (and enthusiasts especially) continue to buy aftermarket parts and accessories. Vehicle sales are also bouncing back as travel restrictions ease up and consumers turn to their personal cars as a safe form of getting around.

Want to learn more about the current state of American consumers? Download the new “SEMA State of the Consumer Report—Fall 2020” for free at  www.sema.org/research.

By Kyle Cheng

Findings from the “SEMA State of the Consumer Report—Fall 2020” reveal that consumers are getting back on the road, feeling confident about their financial position, and spending at retailers again.

The last few months have been disruptive to many people, but new research shows that American consumers are adapting and moving past the crisis. Findings from the “SEMA State of the Consumer Report—Fall 2020” reveal that consumers are getting back on the road, feeling confident about their financial position, and spending at retailers again. Among the specific findings are:

• Retail spending in the U.S. hit a two-decade high of $482 billion in August, rebounding from the lows seen in March and April.
• Spending at auto parts and motor vehicle dealers hit a high of $110 billion.
• Approximately 1.34 million cars were sold in September 2020, a 6% jump from September 2019.
• About 74% of consumers report that their current financial status is better or at least the same as it was last year.
• 63% report saving at least a little of their money, compared to only 13% who are drawing on savings or running into debt.

When it comes to parts sales within the specialty-equipment industry specifically, SEMA expects sales to drop in 2020 but quickly bounce back over the next few years as consumers (and enthusiasts especially) continue to buy aftermarket parts and accessories. Vehicle sales are also bouncing back as travel restrictions ease up and consumers turn to their personal cars as a safe form of getting around.

Want to learn more about the current state of American consumers? Download the new “SEMA State of the Consumer Report—Fall 2020” for free at  www.sema.org/research.