By SEMA News Editors

Yakima, a manufacturer of cargo and gear management solutions, has unveiled its new spring 2024 products.

MOD Drawer System

Engineered specifically to fit a wide range of vehicles, the MOD Drawer System is available in three different sizes and designed to maximize internal storage space. This modular system allows for more than 30 custom configurations when mix-and-matched with MOD Topper drawers, three different types of totes, MOD WorkSpace, fridge sliding mount, Stretch Net and more.

RuggedLine HD Collection

This exterior, roof-mounted storage is a heavy-duty platform-to-vehicle mounting system with models made specifically to work with the Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner and RAV4; Jeep Grand Cherokee; and RAM 1500. Also new is the RuggedLine HD Track Mount for use on vehicles with Yakima HD and Classic Tracks, as well as some factory racks.

OverHaul MOLLE Panel

Built to increase the utility of the OverHaul HD by providing a versatile surface to mount shovels, recovery gear, RotopaX, soft packs and more, this new offering is available in two size options and fully off-road certified for up to 54 lbs. (short) and 80 lbs. (mid) of gear.

OnRamp LX

This two-bike carrier fits a wide variety of bike shapes, lengths and weights, and an integrated ramp allows users to easily roll bikes into place. Stadium seating prevents bike-to-bike interference, the company said, while accommodating up to a 54-in. max wheelbase and up to 29-in. rims (and 5-in. wide tires).

HighRoad and HighSpeed Rooftop Bike Carriers

Updates include aesthetic changes, added features and a higher off-road rating. Both are set to accommodate a longer wheelbase.

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently spotted a prototype of the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS, which is set to undergo a facelift in 2025. Captured in Stuttgart, Germany, the images reveal updates to the front end, including the bumper, grille and headlights.

According to the images, the revised model will feature inner graphics in the taillights that incorporate Mercedes' three-pointed star, similar to the upcoming all-electric CLA. While the prototype's taillights remain unchanged, the rear might see a new bumper and updates to the LED strip connecting the lamp units. 

The most significant changes, however, will be in the technology under the hood, sources said. Rumors suggest that Mercedes-Benz will upgrade its EQE and EQS electric models from a 400-volt system to an 800-volt electrical system in 2025 to enable higher charging capacities.

Mercedes will replace the current electric motors from Valeo with its eATS 2.0 drive, designed to operate with an 800-volt on-board electrical system. The move to an 800-volt system also eliminates the current 200 kW charging limit, allowing for faster charging with larger batteries, according to experts.

By SEMA News Editors

NHRA Youth Program to Host 15 Live Events, 2 Pilot Programs in 2024

The NHRA Youth and Education Services (YES) Program will host 15 live events and six virtual programs during the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

The NHRA YES Program will also hold two "Pilot Program" events during the 2024 season at a pair of NHRA Member Tracks: April 15 at Kansas International Dragway in Wichita, Kansas, and May 17 at Toronto Motorsports Park, in Cayuga, Ontario, Canada. The pilot program events will allow the two NHRA Member Tracks to host YES Programs for local schools in the community.

The YES Program invites students to NHRA national events to observe career chances within the motorsports field, while the pilot programs offer those same opportunities at tracks without a national event.

In 2023, the YES Program hosted more than 31,000 students at tracks across the country.

For more information, visit nhra.com/yes.

African American Automotive Association Unveils Reyana Lobban Memorial Scholarship Fund

The African American Automotive Association (AAAA) has established the Reyana Lobban Memorial Scholarship Fund, an initiative designed to propel high school seniors toward success in the automotive industry.

Established in memory of Reyana Lobban, the scholarship is dedicated to students interested in automotive-related fields, encompassing a wide array of disciplines, such as marketing, design, journalism and photography, within the realms of trade schools, colleges and universities.

For more information, visit aaaassoc.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The exhibitor space rental agreement for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas, is now open online.

The deadline to submit booth agreements (and deposits) and be included in the priority booth space selection is Friday, March 29.

The SEMA Show team will begin the booth plotting process from April 29 through May 15. Companies that submit their agreements and deposits by the March 29 deadline will be eligible for early space selection, where exhibitors select their booth location at the Show based on exhibitor seniority.

"After a successful SEMA Show in 2023, we are seeing an increase in demand for exhibit space across all categories, so we advise you to submit booth agreements early to ensure your brand is represented at the 2024 SEMA Show," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director.

For more information on exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit semashow.com/exhibitor. For more information, visit semashow.com.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA business members can access a wealth of business-building benefits tailored to their needs by logging into their SEMA Member Portal. Available at sema.org, the portal is the ultimate hub for SEMA business members and their employees to take advantage of the many industry programs, discounts and education opportunities available to them. 

Here's how the portal can boost your business:  

Connect with market-specific industry communities.  

Whether your business is in hot rods, restoration, racing, restyling, trucks, wheels or suspension, there's a SEMA council that's right for your company. Join a SEMA council to gain access to exclusive programs and resources targeted specifically to your market segment.  

Likewise, you can join a SEMA network for additional career and networking opportunities. SEMA networks are available to individuals within your company who share common industry interests and characteristics.  

Joining a SEMA council or network offers a host of benefits, including exclusive invitations to networking events throughout the year, volunteer and leadership opportunities and access to a community of professionals and friends who share your same passion.

Save money when bringing products to market.  

The SEMA Garages in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan, offer the tools, technology and services that business members need to get their innovations to market--as well as the space necessary to work efficiently and accurately. Claim your SEMA Garage member benefit to enjoy member-exclusive pricing on services like 3D scanning and printing, ADAS testing, vehicle measuring sessions, emissions testing, and access to state-of-the-art installation and training centers.

Streamline your business with comprehensive product data.  

By claiming the SEMA Data member benefit, manufacturers can receive discounted, complete and flexible product data management, along with the tools and services to empower them to get going fast. Likewise, resellers can access the largest source of product data in the automotive specialty-equipment industry, along with tools and services to get them up and running.

Download SEMA Market Research Reports for FREE  

Claim your SEMA Market Research benefit to access an arsenal of reports filled with data and insights on consumer behavior, purchasing habits, industry trends and sales figures--all specific to the automotive specialty-equipment market. The reports are available to SEMA business members for free (a $2,000 savings off the non-member price) and include detailed insights to help readers make more informed decisions for their business.

Don't wait; access your SEMA member benefits by logging into your SEMA Member Portal at sema.org. If you need help accessing your exclusive portal, send us an email at members@SEMA.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA and PRI Coordinating Editor Jack Haworth recently attended the NASCAR Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum, and he's giving SEMA News readers an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek into what it was like to cover the non-points exhibition race at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum won by Denny Hamlin earlier this month. 

Haworth was on assignment for SEMA Magazine, covering a feature story on Gen Z's interest in motorsports. At the event, Haworth connected with Pete Jung, NASCAR chief marketing officer, to discuss different strategies NASCAR is using to appeal to younger generations and how that's been having some success.

"This story will cover Gen Z's interest in motorsports--exploring what motorsports disciplines Gen Z are interested in, why 'authenticity' is so important to the younger generations, how to capture their attention and what this suggests about Gen Z's willingness to spend money in the aftermarket automotive industry," said Haworth to SEMA News.

See Haworth's first-hand insights below, and be sure to catch the full story in SEMA magazine's May issue.

Seeing the NASCAR Cup Series race within the tight confines of the LA Coliseum was a unique experience. It reminded me of the tight quarter-mile bullrings that many of those drivers grew up racing on, but instead taking place inside a world-famous venue.

However, the racing was competitive and the crowd was into the action. I can think of two memorable scenes from the actual race: the first was the crowd all standing, cheering and filming the start of the race on their phones. It seemed like there were certainly lots of first-time fans there, and it was cool to see everyone's excitement once the race got underway. Another memorable sight was the white-hot glowing rotors from the Cup cars; the tight track required heavy braking, and those brakes were pushed to the limits. 

Also, the NASCAR Mexico Series raced after the Cup race and put on a great show. The Mexico Series competes in a completely different race car, more similar to a late-model stock car, but those cars slid around more and were better suited for the tight track. Finally, the race was moved from Sunday to Saturday due to a large incoming storm, so watching the teams scramble and prepare to go racing was equal parts interesting and impressive.

While I've gone to several NASCAR races as a fan, this was my first race covering a Cup Series race as a reporter. With 38 races a year, I've heard industry folks describe NASCAR as a "traveling circus." But to see the garage area up close was a fascinating experience and helped me understand the circus analogy.

With nearly 40 cars in the field, it was exciting to watch the teams work on their cars, get them through tech inspection and prepare their equipment for that night's race. It's a giant undertaking, but the teams are all true professionals and handled their business with relative ease. Also, being the first race of the year, albeit an exhibition race, seeing the "NASCAR family" reunite in the garage and swap stories about the off-season was great. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Gideon Williams, business development manager at RevolutionParts, as its newest spotlight member.  

Get to know Williams in his interview with SEMA News below. 

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

Gideon Williams: Listen more and never give up! 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

GW: From the time I was introduced to parts eCommerce at a [warehouse distributor], I fell in love with our industry. I look forward to the next 30 years.  

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

GW: Playing golf. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?  

GW: Visualize the meeting and ensure I am answering the prospect's questions and concerns. I want the focus to always be [on] the customer.  

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

GW: Henry Ford. I want to hear his stories from the start and understand his thoughts on where Ford is today. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are a few of the latest postings. 

Sanders Streetrods 

Auto Body and Paint Technician in Enumclaw, Washington

Sanders Streetrods is searching for an individual with experience in the auto body industry. The selected applicant's role would include body panel straightening and dent repair, body panel filler work and block sanding, body panel alignment, painting and more. A minimum of two years of experience is required.

Canepa

Auto Body Prepper in Scotts Valley, California

Canepa is searching for an experienced auto body prepper with a knowledge of restoration style bodywork, anti-corrosion treatments, surface preparation and other relevant areas, in addition to four years of auto body experience.

RANDYS Worldwide

Brand Manager in Everett, Washington

The selected candidate will spearhead the planning and execution of initiatives, including product launches, branding strategies, promotional endeavors and event support. In collaboration with the sales team and channel partners, this role will be responsible for the brand's representation across diverse channels and ensuring the success of promotional efforts and advertising strategies.

By SEMA News Editors

McCoy Receives Promoter of the Year Award at RPM@Daytona

John McCoy, promoter at Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, Iowa, received the Auto-Racing Promoter of the Year Award at the 51st annual RPM@Daytona Workshops in Daytona, Beach, Florida.

Additionally, Susan Deery, manager of Rockford Speedway in Rockford, Illinois, was presented with the Jody Deery Award--named after her late mother--for leading the track during its final season.

John McCoy and wife (left); Susan Deery and family (right).

Other awards presented during the workshop include the RPM Outstanding Event of the Year, which was awarded to the Gerald Haers Memorial at Land of Legends Raceway in Canandaigua, New York, and the organization's Regional Promoter of the Year awards.

See the full list of regional winners below:

• Region One: Brett Deyo from Utica-Rome, Fonda in New York, and Georgetown Speedway in Georgetown, Delaware.
• Region Two: Wendall Durrance from All-Tech Speedway in Lake City, Florida.
• Region Three: Kevin Gundaker from Tri-City Speedway in Granite City, Illinois.
• Region Four: Doug Johnson, Huset's Speedway in Brandon, South Dakota.
• Region Five: John McCoy, Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, Iowa.
• Region Six: Michelle Lackey-Maynor, Alaska Raceway Park in Palmer, Alaska.

For more information, visit promotersnewsletter.com.

Extreme E Selects Symbio as Hydrogen Fuel Cell Supplier

Extreme E has announced Symbio as its official hydrogen fuel cell provider ahead of the championship’s transition to Extreme H in 2025. Symbio is co-owned by Forvia, Michelin and Stellantis.

Symbio will supply the series with a 75kW hydrogen fuel cell, replacing the battery as the principal energy source. Green hydrogen sources will be used to power the Extreme H fuel cells, created using a combination of solar and water.

For more information, visit extreme-e.com.

Featherlite Trailers Announces Newest Authorized Transporter Service Center

Featherlite Trailers, based in Cresco, Iowa, has announced Superior Trailer Solutions as its newest authorized transporter service center.

As part of the partnership, Superior Trailer Solutions will be stationed alongside Featherlite's NASCAR service transporter at the Daytona 500 and will support Featherlite's trackside service for specialty transporters.

For more information, visit fthr.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Porsche is working on updating the current 911 lineup and SEMA News sources recently captured images of a Targa model prototype on the roads in northern Sweden.

The recent sighting was the first of the uncovered 911 Targa, revealing its updated design without camouflage, except for the decal covers on the headlights and the Porsche and Targa logos on the rear and B-pillar.

The refresh introduces a new front bumper design featuring vertical slats in its air intakes. This alteration was necessary to accommodate the integration of vertical and active slats, differing from the design of the current model, sources said. The rear bumper will also undergo some modifications, particularly in its lower section, as will the rear air outlets of the engine cover.

According to anonymous company insiders, the base variant of the 911 (which isn't the model seen here) is rumored to revert to naturally aspirated engines. Speculation suggests that the base model might adopt an engine derived from the 4.0L unit but with a smaller displacement.