SEMA congratulates U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) on being named the co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. Senator Mullin is a longtime advocate for the specialty automotive aftermarket, former competitive rock crawler and an automotive enthusiast with a vehicle collection that includes a ’67 Shelby Cobra, ’72 Chevy C-10 and a ’21 Shelby GT 500.
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) [left] with former SEMA Chairman of the Board Doug Evans.
“Senator Mullin is an incredible advocate for automotive enthusiasts, racers and more than 1 million men and women who work in the specialty automotive aftermarket,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA thanks Sen. Mullin for his leadership on legislation to protect aftermarket businesses and the millions of enthusiasts who make the industry possible. We look forward to working with him and the other co-chairs in the new Congress to protect the right to modify and repair vehicles, race and maintain motorized access to public lands.”
“As a lifelong automotive enthusiast, I am very proud to join Senator Tester in co-chairing the Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus,” said Senator Mullin. “Together, we’re pushing back against bureaucratic red tape and overregulation that aims to phase out the entire industry—one that serves as a centerpiece in the lives of millions of Americans.”
Senator Mullin with his ’72 Chevy C-10.
Senator Mullin joins U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and U.S. Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA) as the co-chairs of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, which features 14 Senators and 45 House members. SEMA thanks former U.S. Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), who served as the co-chair of the Caucus from 2010 until he retired earlier this year.
Sen. Mullin is anything but a traditional politician, which is one of the many reasons why he has been such an effective legislator. While a political career was never a part of his plans, Sen. Mullin ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District in 2012 in response to government overreach that threatened his business. During his five terms time in the House, Sen. Mullin advocated for simplifying regulations on small businesses and helped to lead the fight to provide certainty to racers and motorsports parts businesses surrounding the conversion of street vehicles into racecars. Sen. Mullin was also the lead sponsor of a 2015 law, the “Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act,” which created a simplified regulatory system for small automotive businesses that manufacture classically styled replica vehicles.
Senator Mullin with his ’67 Shelby Cobra.
About the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus
Formed in 1996 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the American automobile, the bipartisan Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the automobile and motorsports. The SEMA-supported Congressional Caucus pays tribute to the automotive performance and motorsports industry, which is an economic driver in communities across the country. The honorary caucus recognizes the important role that modifying vehicles and racing play in the lives of millions of Americans.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) issued the final draft of the state’s 2023 Colorado Electric Vehicle (EV) Plan, which it intends to adopt later in 2023. Despite being a CARB state, the proposal does not follow California by banning the sale of new internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicles.
SEMA believes Coloradans, not the government, should be allowed to choose the type of vehicle technology that best serves them and their families. Once adopted, the proposed rule will go into effect starting with model-year ’27. SEMA will encourage its members and enthusiasts to comment on the proposal once it is officially considered later this year.
Colorado is in the final stages of establishing its zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) regulation, which does not entail a mandate against internal combustion engines. The regulatory process in Colorado is slated to commence formally in July and conclude in October.
For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
The SEMA Show is driven by connections, and brings exhibitors, buyers and media from around the world together for the automotive aftermarket’s most valuable, in-person, transformative business experience.
The Las Vegas Convention Center is annually reshaped into the definitive gathering place of the world’s professional automotive community, where the industry’s sights and sounds combine to create an energy that fuels the imagination, sparks new trends, expands business relationships and drives the industry forward.
Exhibitors have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with buyers from all segments of the aftermarket, and can conduct multiple meetings each day to create new business, or reinforce existing customer relationships. Meeting face-to-face is the ideal way to build trust and to communicate ideas more clearly, and it helps avoid potential distractions or the technical difficulties that can disrupt online meetings.
Here are some additional advantages of meeting in person.
When you meet in person, you can read body language, see facial expressions, use context clues and better get to know someone’s personality.
The automotive aftermarket prefers to meet face-to-face, without potential distractions or technical difficulties.
It’s more effective to brainstorm, generate ideas and discuss what is working, and what is not, face-to-face.
Conducting business in person provides the opportunity to engage in purposeful small talk, deepening relationships, loyalty and trust.
Research shows face-to-face requests are 34 times more effective than those sent by email, and that a physical handshake promotes cooperation and influences negotiation outcomes for the better. (MIT’s Human Dynamics Lab)
According to a study by Forbes Insight, 85% of people say they build stronger, more meaningful business relationships during in-person meetings and conferences.
According to a study by the Harvard Review, 95% of people say face-to-face meetings are a key factor in successfully building and maintaining long-term business relationships.
The 2023 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, October 31–November 3. For more information about the 2023 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com. To exhibit, get started at www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.
Engaging the Next Generation of Women in Motorsports, Powered by SBN
Many may know the names of the four women speaking in this session, but few are aware of their stories. How did they get started in motorsports and why are they so dedicated to introducing more women into the sport? Their stories are moving and impactful, and will leave you inspired to join the movement.
Louise Ann Noeth (LandSpeed Productions): Referred to as “LandSpeed Louise,” the world’s historian of landspeed racing shares discoveries she made while researching her latest book about the women of Bonneville’s landspeed racing.
Dystany Spurlock (Dystany Spurlock Racing): Professional motorsport drag racer shares practical tips for women about how to get started in a sport dominated by men.
Beth Paretta (Paretta Autosport): The first female director of a performance brand and motorsports for an automotive company, Paretta made history in 2021 when she led the first team comprised primarily of women competing in the Indianapolis 500.
Michelle Della Penna (Della Penna Motorsports Next Gen Foundation): As the only child of a racecar driver/team owner, Della Penna was introduced to motorsports at an early age. Find out what led her to want to create programs designed to bring more females into the industry, and what she had planned for 2023 and 2024.
Proven Strategies to Recruit and Retain Top Talent
With unemployment at an all-time low, employers need to up their game to attract and retain top talent. Angelia Pelham of Real-Talk Executive Coaching & Mentoring shares trends that will help businesses think about how to recruit and retain talent in the future. You’ll learn new and innovative approaches and how best-in-class companies position themselves as compelling places to work.
Building connections with the right people at the right time could take your career or business to new levels.
To provide an atmosphere for companies in the wheel and tire market to network and address industry related issues, the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council will host an Ambassador Meeting at the SEMA Garage in Detroit on April 3.
By investing time to establish new connections and attend the event, attendees will:
Create valuable in-person connections with wheel and tire members of different backgrounds and expertise.
Openly share challenges that their company is experiencing, providing a chance to gain feedback and learn from others.
Discover new trends and business opportunities in the wheel and tire sector that they may be missing out on.
Share their input on how the WTC can help them further succeed in the marketplace.
Participants will also have an opportunity to be educated on aftermarket wheel and tire opportunities in the electric-vehicle space. A council reception will follow from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., giving attendees a chance to mix and mingle in a relaxed environment.
SEMA members are needed to serve as volunteer judges for the 2023 SEMA Scholarship Program.
With students from every segment of the industry applying, the SEMA Scholarship Program is seeking a diverse group of professionals to serve as volunteer judges who will review applications and assist with selecting winners. Flexibility is available and the task can be performed around the volunteer’s individual schedule, with opportunities for those who have very limited time to assist.
Judging begins April 3 and continues until May 15. Visit here to learn more and sign up.
To learn more about the SEMA Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness program, visit www.sema.org/scholarships.
More than 90% of companies in the automotive specialty-equipment industry report that supply-chain issues have impacted their business operations over the past year. Businesses both large and small can benefit from listening to industry experts discuss their challenges and hear what their solutions were.
During the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) General Membership Meeting & Panel Discussion, March 23, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT), SEMA members will hear from Rick Love (Vintage Air) and Darrin Dewey (National Parts Depot) as they share their insights on the recent supply-chain disruption.
Attendees will gain insight on:
The causes and effects of domestic and international supply-chain issues.
Tips for how to adapt and overcome in the areas of forecasting, pricing, labor and shipping.
How to remain successful by pleasing your customer and maintaining a profit.
Having experienced disruptions in the supply chain firsthand, the panelists have proven and practical advice on how to adjust to the challenges.
The SEMA Show is the ultimate automotive marketplace for finding innovative new products, staying atop the latest industry trends and forming long-lasting business partnerships. The 2022 Show drew more than 132,000 attendees, including more than 70,000 buyers and decision makers. Both first-timers and veteran SEMA Show exhibitors should consider participating to introduce their products to an entire global marketplace that consists of automotive professionals from more than 140 countries around the world.
“Exhibiting with us exposes the brand to a global audience,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “That differentiates us from some of the regional shows around the country. With unmatched media coverage and industry attendance, the SEMA Show has the ability to take new companies and transform their business just by participating in our event.”
The subsequent testimonials shed some light on how exhibiting at the Show changed the trajectory of each of the following businesses in recent years:
Lubrication Specialties Inc. hesitated to exhibit in previous years while its Hot Shot’s Secret brand was growing, so the primary goal in 2021 was to bring awareness to the brand and introduce new customers to its products. They also wanted to reach out to potential new dealers and product distributors.
“We were happy to exceed expectations with a heavily trafficked booth in the Racing & Performance section of the Central Hall and sign up multiple new partners,” said Kyle Fischer, director of branding and promotions, Lubrication Specialties Inc. “In hindsight, we should have started exhibiting at the SEMA Show many years ago. It turned out to be the perfect event to put our brand on the map and proved to be an excellent venue to further push the brand growth and recognition that we have been building upon.”
Headquartered in Calabasas, California, Harbor Freight Tools first exhibited at the 2019 SEMA Show with a 30x40-ft. booth. Last year, the tool manufacturer returned to the 2022 Show with a 30x90-ft. booth—more than double the size.
“We brought a large portion of our store,” said Alon Mahller, Harbor Freight Tools senior product marketing manager. “It gave people an opportunity to get their hands on our tools and to try them. Many people have been hesitant to try or use certain tools from us, and this was a good opportunity for us to put them in their hands and say, ‘Pull the trigger on this product and see how you like it. See how it stands up to the competition.’”
Hinckley Overlanding introduced its GOAT trailer at the 2021 SEMA Show. Supplying its products for feature-vehicle builds in different Show locations proved an effective way to lead dealers back to its booth. The company is now growing rapidly.
Exhibiting at the Show pays off for smaller companies, too. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Hinckley Overlanding supplies, installs and designs products for the state’s growing overlanding community.
“We had been to the Show [as attendees], and we knew that it was where we could get in front of buyers,” said Hinckley Overlanding Owner and Operator Matt McIntosh. “We had six individuals staffing our booth, and we were literally buried the whole time. We didn’t really get to see the rest of the Show because our exhibit was so well received. We were just piling into our rooms at the end of the day, and we weren’t going out to dinner. We were all hammered.”
In regards to the entire SEMA Show, McIntosh believes it to be the ideal place to showcase a product while discovering new trends.
“You’re always evolving as a company and as a builder,” he observed. “As things change over the next few years, we’ve got to stay ahead of the times. The Show allows us to go to market with all the other builders that are out there and get ideas on how we can make our product better. And you’re making connections you can’t make any other way. Honestly, we’re in the people business. We just happen to make, build and sell cool stuff. At the end of the day, it’s about the relationships that you build with buyers and customers.”
Bubba Rope first came to the 2010 SEMA Show with a simple 10x10-ft. booth and a unique story to tell. The recovery rope won a New Product Award for packaging, and the rest is history. The company used the 2022 Show to debut several new recovery gear sets.
Jim Flowers, president of Florida-based Bubba Rope, attributes much of his company’s growth over the past decade to the SEMA Show—so much so that the Show now figures prominently in Bubba Rope’s annual marketing plan.
During the recession in 2009, Bubba Rope was bringing an unusual product to market: surplus coated helicopter rope re-adapted and packaged as off-road recovery gear. But would the off-roading community embrace it? Someone in the automotive press suggested that Flowers try introducing it at the 2010 SEMA Show.
“It was just incredible,” he said. “The Show was a Mecca of off-road vehicles. It had so much energy with everything that was going on, so we put our 10x10-ft. booth together. People started coming in and filling it on day one. Rather than just hanging a bunch of rope around, we wanted to demonstrate how it worked, so we spent a lot of time in our booth showing people what the rope could do.”
For Jake Merrick Sr., owner of Merrick Tool in Hinton, Oklahoma, the biggest exposure from the Show came from a video shot by Koon Trucking at the Merrick Tool booth. When it appeared on YouTube, it called the CAMLOCK Socket the best product of the 2021 SEMA Show and featured interviews with Jake Merrick Jr., who is a partner in the business and a state senator from Oklahoma, as well as Jake Sr.
“It’s priceless. We could have paid 10 times more, and I’d still go back,” Merrick said. “We went away from there glassy-eyed with our mouths open and dead tired, but we were smiling.”
Horizon Brands in Costa Mesa, California, are industry veterans. They knew that for their spin-off Project X product to grow, they needed to be at the biggest event in automotive performance.
“We ended up leaving the Show with commitments from every person that was on our five-year plan,” said Chavez. “The biggest thing I can tell people going into the SEMA Show is you need to have a plan. If you go into SEMA and think you can stand there and it will sell, it won’t go well.”
CTEK North America is a global leader in vehicle battery care and maintenance, and the company is a long-time participant in the annual SEMA Show. Bobbie DuMelle, executive vice president for CTEK North America, called the SEMA Show “the perfect fit” for CTEK.
“Because SEMA is one of the leading automotive shows on the planet, it also means it’s the biggest market research opportunity we have,” DuMelle said. “Workshop owners, professionals, and builders are all there under one roof, and they’re all there because they enjoy cars.”
The 2023 SEMA Show is scheduled for Tuesday–Friday, October 31–November 3, in Las Vegas. For additional information about exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/exhibitor.
Honda Performance Development Unveils CR-V Hybrid Racer
While hybrid power units officially debut in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2024, race fans and car enthusiasts alike will get to preview the incoming technology with the debut of the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer at next month's season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
The CR-V Hybrid Racer was conceived and designed by the engineers at Honda Performance Development (HPD) in California and designers from the North America Auto Design Division (NAAD) of American Honda, then built at Honda Automotive Development Center (ADC) in Ohio by the Honda of America Racing Team (HART). It places a 2.2L twin-turbocharged, electrified Honda V6 INDYCAR power unit and transmission under ’23 Honda CR-V Hybrid bodywork to create the “rolling laboratory” for the continued development of electrified technology by Honda and HPD. The CR-V Hybrid Racer runs on Shell's 100% renewable race fuel and features Skeleton Supercapacitors and Empel MGU hybrid motor technology.
The Chromoly steel tube chassis of the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer is clothed in suitably hybrid bodywork designed by NAAD. From the beltline up, the Hybrid Racer utilized a standard production sixth-generation CR-V steel body, including the glass windshield, windows and even the sunroof. The lower half is of carbon-composite construction, incorporating a front splitter and louvered, flared fenders. An equally large rear wing and butterfly half-cut doors on either side for the driver and passenger complete the bodywork.
The finished Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer is wrapped by Lili Melikian, senior exterior designer.
“The graphics were inspired by the hybrid powertrain, radiating from Honda Hybrid Blue to Honda Racing Red to symbolize the duality of the drivetrain,” Melikian explained. “While the speed squirkles add a dynamic fun layer and showcase the playful side of Power of Dreams. Throughout the wrap, we have also sprinkled Easter eggs like ghosted outlines of Honda-sponsored tracks and an overhead view of the engine that powers the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer.”
Stertil-Koni Hires Steve Plomin as Director of National Accounts
Steve Plomin
Stertil-Koni has announced that Steve Plomin, a seasoned sales professional with extensive experience in the heavy-duty OEM and aftermarket parts industry, has joined the company as director of national accounts. Most recently, Plomin served as national account manager for Continental Battery Systems where he was responsible for sales strategy, program development, pricing and marketing for the commercial vehicle markets that included truck, bus, agricultural, waste and aftermarkets parts.
Hot Shot’s Secret Supports the Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Truck Convoy
Hot Shot’s Secret has announced its support for the Make-A-Wish chapter that serves Philadelphia, Delaware and Susquehanna Valley. Make-A-Wish grants life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. The Mother’s Day Truck Convoy financially supports 75% of wishes granted in communities located in the Susquehanna Valley. This year, the goal is to raise $700,000 through the fundraising efforts of individuals and teams through the Mother’s Day Truck Convoy and Carnival that takes place on the grounds of the Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction, held May 14.
Independent drivers and trucking companies also raise funds to help reach the goals set by this chapter with their Mother’s Day convoy. Last year, close to 500 drivers and companies participated and Hot Shot’s Secret came in second in the amount of money raised. This year, Hot Shot’s Secret is once again pledging $5,000 in matching funds to support this cause. Anyone interested in donating funds for the Hot Shot’s Secret driver and fundraising team, should visit here to donate.
BAJA FORGED Announces New Partnership
BAJA FORGED has announced a strategic partnership with Forged Authority.
“BAJA FORGED has been looking for someone as a one-stop shop, from helping with CAD designs, to a finished product that is kitted and ready to ship within the U.S.,” said Theresa Contreras (second, left), CEO/co-founder/designer, BAJA FORGED. Contreras has produced award-winning SEMA Show vehicles and made a name for the BAJA FORGED brand globally along with COO Jason Contreras.
“As we are still a boutique brand, we love having a niche that speaks to our customers,” Theresa said. “Our products are fully off-road-capable, but you’ll notice the ‘look first’ as our contoured lines and compound rolls and bends enhance the vehicle’s appearance as if it were a concept vehicle from the factory.”
The goal is to supply product to customers more efficiently and on a larger scale while remaining committed to quality. This newly announced joint venture with Wesley Poole (left), president/founder of Forged Authority and 2019 SEMA Launch Pad finalist, is more than fitting for the manufacturing veteran, according to Theresa.
Forged Authority is currently expanding its manufacturing capabilities to produce BAJA FORGED products and deliver them to the masses. Along with the announcement of BAJA FORGED and Forged Authority coming together, Ian Lehn (right), CEO/founder of BOOSTane and 2014 SEMA Launch Pad winner, will join the Forged Authority team as vice president. An engineer by trade but an entrepreneur at heart, Lehn will help facilitate the growth of this collaboration.
“Building businesses through innovation and great people is something near and dear to me. I am really excited to come on board at Forged Authority and help drive these brands to new heights,” Lehn said.
Stellantis Announces $155 Million Investment in Three Indiana Plants to Support North American Electrification Goals
Stellantis has announced that it will invest a total of $155 million in three Kokomo, Indiana, plants to produce new electric drive modules (EDM) that will help power future electric vehicles assembled in North America and to support the goal of 50% battery-electric sales in the U.S. by 2030.
With more than 25 battery-electric vehicle (BEV) launches planned in the United States between now and 2030, the Kokomo-built EDM will be integrated into vehicles designed on the STLA Large and STLA Frame platforms. Offering an all-in-one solution for electric-vehicle powertrains, the EDM consists of three main components—the electric motor, power electronics and transmission—that are combined into a single module to deliver improved performance and range at a competitive cost. The optimized efficiency of the new EDM will help each platform achieve driving range up to 500 miles (800 km).
“While we continue our successful transition to a decarbonized future in our European operations, we are now setting those same foundational elements for the North American market,” said Carlos Tavares, Stellantis CEO. “By combining the benefits of the EDM with our new BEV-centric platforms and innovative battery technologies, we will offer our customers a variety of electric vehicles with unparalleled performance and range at more affordable prices. And with our in-house manufacturing capabilities and expertise, we will do it with greater flexibility and efficiency.”
Investments will be made at the Indiana Transmission, Kokomo Transmission and Kokomo Casting plants. The gearbox cover will be cast at Kokomo Casting and machined at Kokomo Transmission. Gear machining and final assembly will be at the Indiana Transmission Plant. Production is expected to start in the third quarter of 2024, following retooling.
Since 2020, Stellantis has invested nearly $3.3 billion in Indiana to support its transition to electrification. This includes recent announcements of $643 million to produce a new engine for conventional and PHEV applications, a next-generation eight-speed transmission and a gigafactory joint venture with Samsung SDI. In total, these investments support Stellantis’ ambition to achieve net-zero carbon by 2038, as set out in its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan.
Piston Foundation Partners With Bring a Trailer to Benefit “Sponsor a Piston Scholar” Initiative
’73 Datsun 240Z
The Piston Foundation, whose mission is to bring more young people into the trades of the collector-car industry, in particular with its “Sponsor a Piston Scholar” initiative, is partnering with Bring a Trailer (BaT) to auction off a ’73 Datsun 240Z at www.bringatrailer.com.
Bidding on the Datsun, which commemorates BaT’s 100,000th listing, is now live and will end on March 7. One hundred percent of the proceeds, including the 5% BaT buyer’s fee, will be donated to the Piston Foundation.
One hundred percent of the donations to the “Sponsor a Piston Scholar” initiative at goes to fund scholarships. The Piston Foundation awarded 10 scholarships in its inaugural campaign in 2022. “Our goal is to reach 50 scholarships in 2023,” said Jeff Mason, president and COO of the Piston Foundation, “and every dollar we receive will help provide a scholarship for a deserving automotive student.”
The Datsun 240Z was first introduced in 1970 and continues to gain popularity among enthusiasts and collectors. This model was acquired by Bring a Trailer in 2018 and has since been used for cross-country road trips, BaT alumni gatherings, and rallies. The car has become well known among the enthusiast community and is part of the BaT brand.
Repainted in lime green, the 240Z has been modified with a Rebello Racing 2.7L straight-six engine, triple Weber carburetors and a five-speed manual transmission. Other features include a limited-slip differential, four-wheel disc brakes, a lowered suspension and 16-in. Panasport wheels with new Michelin tires.
Covercraft’s Molina Honored by The Manufacturing Institute
Justina Molina
The Manufacturing Institute (MI)—the workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers—announced that Covercraft General Manager Justina Molina has been recognized as a 2023 Women MAKE Awards Honoree. This annual national awards program honors women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory floor to the C-suite.
The Women MAKE Awards are part of the MI’s Women MAKE America initiative, which is the nation’s marquee program to close the gender gap in manufacturing. Women account for about half of the U.S. labor force but represent less than one-third of the manufacturing workforce. Women MAKE America aims to create a 21st-century manufacturing workforce by empowering and inspiring women in the industry.
The Women MAKE Awards honor exceptional women in manufacturing and motivate them to mentor the next generation through an annual awards gala and associated leadership training program. The stories of these women and the leadership they exemplify will help inspire the next generation of women leaders in manufacturing and support talent already within the industry.
On April 20, the MI will recognize 130 recipients of the Women MAKE Awards in Washington, D.C. The evening will highlight each Honoree and Emerging Leader’s story, including their leadership and accomplishments in manufacturing.
Fox Factory Enters Agreement to Acquire Custom Wheel House
Fox Factory has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Custom Wheel House from Thompson Street Capital Partners and other sellers. Subject to customary closing agreements, the transaction is valued at $131.6 million. Custom Wheel House—based out of Rancho Dominguez, California—designs, markets and distributes high-performance wheels, performance off-road tires and accessories. Its family of brands includes its flagship brand Method Race Wheels, along with Tensor Tire and GMZ Race Products. For more information, see the announcement here.
FordPass Rewards Points Now Redeemable Toward Online Accessories Purchases
FordPass Rewards members now can redeem their points toward accessories purchases online, making it easier for Ford owners to personalize their vehicles. Customers can visit accessories.ford.com to shop for a wide variety of accessories from roof tents and superchargers to trailer hitches, floor mats and pet harnesses. Members can visit the accessories.ford.com site to shop for interior, exterior, electronic, wheel accessories and more. Members can use their points, pay with a credit card or use a combination of both on the site. Accessories can be shipped to a customer’s home or to the dealer for installation. Also, returned purchases are credited back to the customer based on the original form of payment.
To become a FordPass Rewards member, Ford owners must download the FordPass App to their phone and accept terms and conditions. Members earn points for things they already do with Ford, including routine maintenance and service visits at dealerships or purchasing a new Ford vehicle. To learn more about FordPass Rewards, visit https://tinyurl.com/RewardsFordPass.
Autoblog Announces Launch of Autoblog Electric
Autoblog has announced the launch of Autoblog Electric, a hub dedicated to electric vehicle news and research. Powered by Autoblog, Autoblog Electric delivers the latest news from the EV world, shopping tools for owners to research their next electric vehicle and videos of the latest electric vehicles. Autoblog Electric is also home to a charging station finder, which allows users to search for EV chargers in their area by inputting their zip code into a mapping tool.
Autoblog Electric's editorial mission is to cover all-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, the charging network, sustainability issues, EV industry personalities and battery technology. Alfa Romeo is the launch sponsor of Autoblog Electric.
’23 Kia Telluride Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick
The ’23 Kia Telluride has been awarded the 2023 Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) rating. Previously a Top Safety Pick for 2022, 2021 and 2020 when equipped with specific headlights, the Telluride’s upgraded award comes following the IIHS’ enactment of strengthened requirements for its 2023 TSP and TSP+ awards, with tougher criteria for side crash protection, pedestrian crash prevention systems, and headlight ratings. Under the more stringent requirements, the Telluride earned ratings of “good” in all four 2023 IIHS crashworthiness evaluations.
The IIHS reports the biggest change to the criteria for both TSP and TSP+ awards is the replacement of the original IIHS side crash test with the updated evaluation launched in 2021, which involves 82% more energy than the original test. The TSP+ criteria includes another new evaluation, the nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention test. Advanced or superior performance is required in both the nighttime and daytime pedestrian tests for TSP+ designation. The roof strength, head restraint and vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention evaluations are no longer part of the award criteria.
The ’23 Telluride sports fresh design elements inside and out, along with an expanded list of technology. Two new trims, X-Line and X-Pro, have also been added to the lineup to promote more adventures for owners who enjoy the outdoors.
Arrow McLaren and Lucas Oil Announce Multi-Year Partnership Extension
McLaren Racing has announced a multi-year extension to its long-standing partnership with Lucas Oil, continuing as an official partner of the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Lucas Oil has been a partner of the Arrow McLaren team for nearly 20 years, starting its relationship with Sam Schmidt Motorsports in 2004. With the season opener, 2023 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, March 3–5, Lucas Oil branding will continue to be represented on all three Arrow McLaren Chevrolets, and on the driver suits of Pato O’Ward, Felix Rosenqvist and Alexander Rossi for the 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season and beyond.
BorgWarner Completes Acquisition of Hubei Surpass Sun Electric Charging Business
BorgWarner Inc. has announced it has completed its acquisition of Hubei Surpass Sun Electric's (SSE's) electric vehicle charging solution, smart grid and smart energy businesses. The acquisition is an important move for BorgWarner's electrification business in Asia and is expected to complement the company's existing charging footprint in Europe and North America.
Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA News. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.
Racing operators, promoters, officials, parts manufacturers and related professionals gathered at the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, West Virginia, to help educate legislators about the positive impact the industry makes on the local and state economy. Representatives included professionals from the entire spectrum of motorsports—dirt tracks, road courses, paved ovals, drag racing and more—along with PRI, SEMA, Summit Point Motorsports Park and GNCC Motocross.
Organized by the West Virginia Motorsports Committee, this second annual event also highlighted the PRI- and SEMA-supported “Motorsports Responsibility Act” (H.B. 2569/S.B. 236), designed to help racing facility operators and owners by defining areas of responsibility and assumed risks by participants. (Editor’s note: H.B. 2569 is currently pending in the House Judiciary Committee while S.B. 236 is in the Senate Judiciary Committee. To contact lawmakers in support of the Motorsport Responsibility Act, visit https://p2a.co/S9lLlWt).
Passage of this bill would likely reduce liability insurance premiums and allow the venues to invest the savings—such as to promote the venue—increasing tourism volume and possibly creating more jobs.
PRI track ambassador Tom Deery was on-hand to share information on PRI’s Race Track Promoter Helpline (202-794-8279 and racinghelp@performanceracing.com), which is monitored five days a week and helps provide motorsports facilities and sanctioning bodies with access to relevant legal resources, peer-to-peer discussions, grassroots campaigns, lawyer referrals and more support.
“PRI is represented at events around the nation, from NASCAR’s biggest race in Daytona to short tracks in the Midwest to important legislation gatherings. Yes, PRI is the three biggest days in the motorsports business [set for December 7–9 in Indianapolis], but we’re working hard year-round to support all levels of the industry,” Deery said. “What’s good about the WV Motorsports Day and the Motorsports Responsibility Act is that they provide a template for other state racing groups that might need to introduce similar legislation in their region. If passed, the bill would put motorsports venues in the same vein as ATV, equestrian, snow skiing, whitewater rafting and related protected recreational venues in the state of West Virginia.”
West Virginians can also celebrate the passing of February 24 as the official WV Motorsports Day at the Legislature. The resolution was sponsored by Senator Mark Maynard and, as a result of its passing, will ensure the gathering will continue to elevate motorsports tracks and businesses in the state for years to come.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) issued the final draft of the state’s 2023 Colorado Electric Vehicle (EV) Plan, which it intends to adopt later in 2023. Despite being a CARB state, the proposal does not follow California by banning the sale of new internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicles.
The SEMA Show is driven by connections, and brings exhibitors, buyers and media from around the world together for the automotive aftermarket’s most valuable, in-person, transformative business experience.
While hybrid power units officially debut in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2024, race fans and car enthusiasts alike will get to preview the incoming technology with the debut of the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer at next month's season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
BAJA FORGED has announced a strategic partnership with Forged Authority.
Stellantis has announced that it will invest a total of $155 million in three Kokomo, Indiana, plants to produce new electric drive modules (EDM) that will help power future electric vehicles assembled in North America and to support the goal of 50% battery-electric sales in the U.S. by 2030.
FordPass Rewards Points Now Redeemable Toward Online Accessories Purchases
The ’23 Kia Telluride has been awarded the 2023 Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) rating. Previously a Top Safety Pick for 2022, 2021 and 2020 when equipped with specific headlights, the Telluride’s upgraded award comes following the IIHS’ enactment of strengthened requirements for its 2023 TSP and TSP+ awards, with tougher criteria for side crash protection, pedestrian crash prevention systems, and headlight ratings. Under the more stringent requirements, the Telluride earned ratings of “good” in all four 2023 IIHS crashworthiness evaluations.
McLaren Racing has announced a multi-year extension to its long-standing partnership with Lucas Oil, continuing as an official partner of the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Lucas Oil has been a partner of the Arrow McLaren team for nearly 20 years, starting its relationship with Sam Schmidt Motorsports in 2004. With the season opener, 2023 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, March 3–5, Lucas Oil branding will continue to be represented on all three Arrow McLaren Chevrolets, and on the driver suits of Pato O’Ward, Felix Rosenqvist and Alexander Rossi for the 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season and beyond.
Racing operators, promoters, officials, parts manufacturers and related professionals gathered at the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, West Virginia, to help educate legislators about the positive impact the industry makes on the local and state economy. Representatives included professionals from the entire spectrum of motorsports—dirt tracks, road courses, paved ovals, drag racing and more—along with PRI, SEMA, Summit Point Motorsports Park and GNCC Motocross.