By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Emma Sauve, creative director of Mobsteel/Detroit Steel Wheel Co., as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.  

Get to know Sauve in her interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Emma Sauve: Technically 17 because I grew up at the shop helping my dad with his large-scale metal sculptures that he fabbed at Mobsteel. I officially started in 2015 running the @detroitsteelwheelco social platforms while the Mobsteel History Channel show was running. Now, I'm a one-woman show handling all the content-generating, distribution, press releases, brand representation at shows and leading workshops on our marketing techniques. 

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?   

ES: I like to take a step back and remember in the world of social media, a lot of the time it should be judged on quality and not quantity. Sometimes the engagement numbers don't reflect the amount of time and effort put into creating content, but I always take a step back and assess if we are meeting our goals. 

SN: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job?   

ES: This is my first industry job, besides helping my dad with our Sauve Art Foundation. Art and Automotive go hand in hand, that's just a fact. What we create is regarded as art, which goes by any definition that invokes a feeling. Let's just put 17 years to appear wise beyond my now 29 years. 

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?   

ES: Work ethic, being good to people and never being afraid to learn something new. I'm self-taught for photography and videography/editing. I went to school for advertising and specialized in graphic design, work ethic and being good to people opened me up to lots of invitations and opportunities in school. Having conversations with like-minded individuals always leads to something positive and exciting! 

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?  

ES: Typically, men talk over me or don't take me seriously. Sometimes men think they can talk to me unprofessionally in my professional settings. Car shows and events that mix with booze don't help, but I'm not afraid to address a situation that makes me uncomfortable or back up my ideas for bettering our industry when they are disregarded. Like I said, being good to people and listening to what they have to say will take you way further than shutting someone down. 

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?  

ES: My boss Adam Genei for sure; he's always been supportive because he aims to create the highest value in our employees. The lovely ladies of MotorTrend who have supported me: Bogi, Cristy Lee, Amanda Busick, Alex Taylor, Karen Echavarria, Betsy Bennett. There are so many! Karen and Betsy host this incredible networking event during SEMA that is one of my favorite stops. Emily Reeves really set the pace for me in the realm of content creation, her and Aaron have built something special. And of course, Theresa Contreras and Sara Morosan, just trailblazers for women in automotive, and especially on the education side through SEMA. There's a reason why Sara was SEMA Person of the Year! I have to give a huge shout-out to my friend Solomon Lunger too, he is one of the hardest-working people I know and he's built his brands from the ground up. He's just a good person who also always looks for people to connect together to build something amazing, whether it's brands or builds. 

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?   

ES: Never tell someone to do something that you don't know how to do yourself. My boss Adam Genei told me that when I first started working at Mobsteel and Detroit Steel Wheel. I think that really established a level of respect immediately within our workflow, and applying that in my personal life gives me a level of authority without coming off as, well, a phony jerk. 

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?  

ES: I'd say I've always wanted to create and tell stories. My world opened up when I dove into automotive and aftermarket manufacturing. What keeps me here is there is always something going on, something new, something old that we are revisiting, so many people to meet and partner with, it's all never-ending. I also absolutely love covering shows and repping our brands! 

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals?  

ES: My dad; My whole life he's always pushed me to reach out and get involved in anything I was interested in. I'll admit, at times it was annoying, haha he knows that, but it was and is always needed. He's my number-one fan, and I'm his. 

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.   

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2024 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2024 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2024 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org or call 949-373-9210.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently caught new images of the Lamborghini Temerario, the plug-in hybrid set to succeed the Huracan. 

Spotted in Southern Italy, the front camouflage includes elements similar to the headlamps of the Gallardo, the Huracan’s predecessor. Additional lights are mounted on either side of the central air intake, and the car features a double-bubble roof and large vents behind the doors to channel air to the internal combustion engine located behind the seats.

At the rear, fake stickers make the taillights appear more prominent, and a multi-faceted diffuser attached to the bumper seems incomplete. The car also sports centrally mounted tailpipes housed within the new trim between the taillights. The wheels are big and wide, with visible components between the rear wheels that seem to be part of the passive aerodynamics.

While technical specifications are yet to be confirmed, insiders have reported that it will be powered by a twin-turbo V8 engine, a departure from the naturally aspirated V12 engine with electric motor assistance in the Revuelto, which replaced the Aventador. The power output of the Lamborghini Temerario is still unknown, but it is expected to feature one or more electric motors, sources said, likely with a charging port on the right quarter-panel opposite the fuel filler cap.

Lamborghini plans to unveil the Temerario at the end of 2024.

By Ashley Reyes

Customers often prefer a one-stop shop where they can get everything they need in a single purchase. When it comes to wheel, tire, suspension and brake products, selling compete solutions, as opposed to piecemealing products in a do-it-yourself style, not only provides convenience to the customer but helps them ensure that all vehicle components are compatible with each other.

SEMA members are invited to attend the Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) Coffee and Conversation online networking event on June 6 at 9:00 a.m. PST, to learn the benefits of selling complete solutions.

Attendees will hear from Mike Messina, general manager of the racking division at Brembo North America, and learn how companies are utilizing experts to recommend to the customer what products work together.

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations are monthly networking events that bring together industry professionals to discuss business opportunities in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake segments. During this session, participants will have an opportunity to engage with Messina, grow their professional network, and learn from others. 

Register today!

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA New York Rally, hosted in Albany on May 14, brought together businesses within the automotive aftermarket industry to amplify their voices and advocate for policies conducive to industry growth and protection of business interests.  

Attendees engaged with influential New York lawmakers, leveraging their collective voice to champion policies supporting industry growth, addressing tax policies beneficial to small businesses and navigating challenges posed by producer responsibility laws.  

Barry Alt of Motorhead Digital (left), Cora Jokinen of Torq-Masters Industries (middle), met with New York Senator Pam Helming (right) during the SEMA New York Rally to discuss policies supporting industry growth.

The specialty automotive aftermarket industry's significant contribution to New York's economy was highlighted, with more than $10 billion contributed, supporting 38,000 jobs, $3.72 billion in wages and benefits, and $1.52 billion in taxes paid. This underscores the industry's vital role in the state's economic landscape. 

At a luncheon during the event, Paul Zuber, executive vice president of the Business Council of New York State, delivered a compelling address highlighting the intersection of business interests and legislative initiatives impacting the automotive aftermarket in New York. 

Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, emphasized the importance of member engagement in events like the SEMA New York Rally. "Member participation is crucial in amplifying our collective voice and shaping policies that directly impact our industry," Robinson said. "Events like these provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, driving positive change and ensuring a vibrant future for the automotive aftermarket in New York." 

For more information, reach out to Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA New York Rally, hosted in Albany on May 14, brought together businesses within the automotive aftermarket industry to amplify their voices and advocate for policies conducive to industry growth and protection of business interests.  

Attendees engaged with influential New York lawmakers, leveraging their collective voice to champion policies supporting industry growth, addressing tax policies beneficial to small businesses and navigating challenges posed by producer responsibility laws.  

Barry Alt of Motorhead Digital (left), Cora Jokinen of Torq-Masters Industries (middle), met with New York Senator Pam Helming (right) during the SEMA New York Rally to discuss policies supporting industry growth.

The specialty automotive aftermarket industry's significant contribution to New York's economy was highlighted, with more than $10 billion contributed, supporting 38,000 jobs, $3.72 billion in wages and benefits, and $1.52 billion in taxes paid. This underscores the industry's vital role in the state's economic landscape. 

At a luncheon during the event, Paul Zuber, executive vice president of the Business Council of New York State, delivered a compelling address highlighting the intersection of business interests and legislative initiatives impacting the automotive aftermarket in New York. 

Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, emphasized the importance of member engagement in events like the SEMA New York Rally. "Member participation is crucial in amplifying our collective voice and shaping policies that directly impact our industry," Robinson said. "Events like these provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, driving positive change and ensuring a vibrant future for the automotive aftermarket in New York." 

For more information, reach out to Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Louisiana legislature approved SEMA-supported legislation (HB 515) to ensure consumers' choice of vehicle powerplants and fuel technology by preventing a state agency from limiting access to certain power sources.   

Having passed both chambers, the bill now awaits final approval or veto by Governor Jeff Landry. 

"HB 515 is a pro-consumer, pro-innovation and pro-business piece of legislation," said Colby Martin, SEMA’s director of state government affairs. "SEMA urges the governor to support this bill and allow the automotive industry to continue delivering the freedom and choice that Louisianans deserve." 

Louisiana is among several states seeking similar proposals. SEMA believes that Louisianans, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. This effort promotes consumer choice, fosters innovation and protects jobs. 

Use this link to send a letter to lawmakers supporting this pro-industry legislation. 

For more information, please contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Louisiana legislature approved SEMA-supported legislation (HB 515) to ensure consumers' choice of vehicle powerplants and fuel technology by preventing a state agency from limiting access to certain power sources.   

Having passed both chambers, the bill now awaits final approval or veto by Governor Jeff Landry. 

"HB 515 is a pro-consumer, pro-innovation and pro-business piece of legislation," said Colby Martin, SEMA’s director of state government affairs. "SEMA urges the governor to support this bill and allow the automotive industry to continue delivering the freedom and choice that Louisianans deserve." 

Louisiana is among several states seeking similar proposals. SEMA believes that Louisianans, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. This effort promotes consumer choice, fosters innovation and protects jobs. 

Use this link to send a letter to lawmakers supporting this pro-industry legislation. 

For more information, please contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has announced that the 2024 SEMA Show floorplan is now live and available at SEMAShow.com/floorplan. The team behind the premier automotive specialty-equipment trade show spent weeks plotting booths to ensure brands could showcase their new innovations across the Las Vegas Convention Center campus, November 5-8. 

Now that the floorplan is live, automotive professionals, decision-makers, buyers, media members and attendees can maximize their Show experience by utilizing the interactive map and exhibitor list at SEMAShow.com/floorplan.

The road to a successful 2024 SEMA Show begins with:

• Registration: Secure your badge to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends, and develop essential skills with education sessions. Register today at semashow.com/register.
• Booking Your Hotel: Hotel reservations are open online here. SEMA Show and partner onPeak offer Showgoers the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.
• Securing Discounted Airline Tickets: Show organizers have secured special airline fares and discounts for trips with Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. More details here.
• Planning Your SEMA Show: Visit the SEMA Show attendee website at semashow.com/attendee to begin your SEMA Show plan with key details on Show features, like the New Product Showcase, the SEMA Battle of the Builders, feature vehicle displays, SEMA FutureTech Studio, Optima Village, Overland Experience, Collision Repair & Refinish Stage plus the SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions, Product Development area. In addition, find out which events are returning in 2024, like the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Cruise, SEMA Awards Presentation, SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, SEMA Business General Membership Meeting and SEMA Fest (more details coming soon)!
• Reliving the SEMA Show: Can't wait for Vegas? Browse dozens of innovative automotive products featured in the 2023 SEMA New Product Showcase here.

Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of housing and travel discounts. Registration is only $40 for qualified attendees who register by June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show is already gearing up to once again serve as the industry homecoming, November 5-8 in Las Vegas. Exhibitors are strategizing their booth plans (read SEMA News' recent Racing & Performance preview and Hot Rod Alley/Restoration Marketplace preview), and this year's Exhibitor Service Manual is packed with new valuable resources and deadlines. The entire Exhibitor Service Manual is the official exhibitor's handbook for success, in addition to the relationships they form with their SEMA sales representative, the SEMA media team and the SEMA Show department. 

Below is a preview of the useful resources to get exhibitors on the road to a successful SEMA Show.

1. Feature Vehicles

Learn more about the rules, regulations and requirements for displaying a vehicle on the SEMA Show floor outside of a booth. Click here to read up on the Feature Vehicle guidelines or submit an application. 

2. New Product Showcase

Submit products to the New Product Showcase--the top destination for buyers and media at the SEMA Show--to build brand awareness and generate leads. The first product entry is free for exhibitors; find more information on submitting a product, packaging or merchandising display here and complete an application for a new or featured product here. 

3. Budget Checklist

This is an essential tool for all participating exhibitors, but especially first-timers. Calculate all confirmed and projected fees for everything from booth space; exhibit design and building; electrical; freight and material handling and related services; plus marketing and staff expenses.

4. Deadlines List

Discover key dates for exhibitors, including deadlines and rate increases.

5. Contact List

Contact the Show organizers to help you succeed with categories like booth vehicles, feature vehicles, banquet tickets, the New Product Showcase, meeting rooms and more.

6. Parking Information

This is especially helpful for exhibitors with trailers; discover where you can park leading up to and during the event.

7. Freeman Booth Services

This section addresses booth needs like power, carpet, fixtures, freight, A/V and computer rentals, cleaning, signs and graphics, and more.

8. Approved Vendors for Booth Services

Access the approved vendors for lead retrieval, catering, insurance, vehicle detailing, tent and canopy rental, internet and telephone, photography, and more.

9. Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships

This section provides successful marketing opportunities at the SEMA Show like advertising, press conferences, products for project-vehicle builders, PR opportunities, sponsorships, celebrity appearances and directory upgrades. In addition, the application for the New Product Showcase appears here.

10. Exhibitor Rules and Regulations

Discover essential information, including applications, fees, payments, safety requirements and more.

11. SEMA Exhibitor Summit (Complimentary event July 24-25)

Those who want to exhibit like professionals and go beyond the Exhibitor Service Manual should attend this year's SEMA Exhibitor Summit, which will feature new-for-2024, relevant, business-boosting information. Open to all current exhibitors, SEMA will cover hotel costs for up to two members of each exhibiting company and offer information on how to:

• Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
• Use proven strategies to attract professionals, media members, decision-makers and buyers to your booth.
• Save money and resources on necessary Show costs like material handling, electrical and related expenses.
• Work one-on-one with SEMA Show experts to maximize your ROI.
• Learn to plan and budget for your entire team to attend.
• Explore promotional opportunities to attract more exposure through complimentary and paid sponsorships and programs.
• Maximize your SEMA Show booth experience.

Don't delay; secure your spots for this year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, July 24-25, Las Vegas, West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit. 

Still have questions? No problem! Contact your SEMA Show sales representative at sales@sema.org, +1 909-396-0289 or semashow.com/contact. Still need booth space for the 2024 SEMA Show? Get started at SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show.