By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a significant development, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has withdrawn SEMA-opposed regulation that would have required the state to adopt California's strict motor-vehicle emissions laws and outlaw the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars beginning in 2035. 

The move to withdraw the regulation came after bipartisan opposition from state lawmakers, with the governor acknowledging that the proposal lacked sufficient support to pass the legislature's Regulation Review Committee. Unlike the Democratic-controlled legislature, the Committee is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. 

Governor Lamont, however, has not abandoned the pursuit of more stringent emissions standards, indicating that he will explore alternative avenues to address the issue, either by seeking legislative action in 2024 or potentially calling a special session in 2023.

"We are pleased that Governor Lamont has listened to the concerns of Connecticut residents and withdrawn this harmful proposal," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "SEMA believes that Connecticut residents, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. Data shows that a successful path to lowering emissions is an all-of-the-above approach to utilizing multiple technologies, not just simply banning one technology in favor of another." 

For more information, contact Robinson at christianr@sema.org.   

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a significant development, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has withdrawn SEMA-opposed regulation that would have required the state to adopt California's strict motor-vehicle emissions laws and outlaw the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars beginning in 2035. 

The move to withdraw the regulation came after bipartisan opposition from state lawmakers, with the governor acknowledging that the proposal lacked sufficient support to pass the legislature's Regulation Review Committee. Unlike the Democratic-controlled legislature, the Committee is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. 

Governor Lamont, however, has not abandoned the pursuit of more stringent emissions standards, indicating that he will explore alternative avenues to address the issue, either by seeking legislative action in 2024 or potentially calling a special session in 2023.

"We are pleased that Governor Lamont has listened to the concerns of Connecticut residents and withdrawn this harmful proposal," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "SEMA believes that Connecticut residents, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. Data shows that a successful path to lowering emissions is an all-of-the-above approach to utilizing multiple technologies, not just simply banning one technology in favor of another." 

For more information, contact Robinson at christianr@sema.org.   

By SEMA News Editors

A new crossover electric vehicle from Ford was spotted in Europe, according to SEMA News sources.

The yet-unnamed crossover is suspected to be built on a Volkswagen EV platform and is a part of an ongoing deal between Volkswagen and Ford that involves sharing platforms and making cars in the same factories. The spotted Ford crossover is expected to be one of seven upcoming EVs for the American brand, including four passenger cars and five commercial vehicles.

Spotted under camouflage in Europe, the Ford electric crossover is likely built on the Volkswagen MEB platform.

Based on the spy shots from SEMA sources, the camouflaged EV is bigger than the Mustang Mach-E and will have a size similar to the Volkswagen ID.6.

From a styling perspective, it will have a boxy shape, large LED headlights, an angular tailgate and some inspiration from the Explorer body, sources said. The interior is also allegedly set to be exclusive to Ford.

The vehicle is expected to be one of Ford's seven planned electric vehicles.

The Blue Oval has confirmed it will produce the new crossover, in addition to a medium-sized crossover, in Cologne, Germany. Both will be underpinned by the Volkswagen group’s MEB platform, according to Ford Europe Chair Stuart Rowley.

The European chief also pledged that the Cologne factory will account for 1.2 million units over its lifecycle.

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Melanie Henry, communications and traffic manager at Martin & Company Advertising, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.  

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

SEMA News: What do you enjoy most about working at your current company?    

Melanie Henry: What I enjoy most about working here is that my talents and creativity are appreciated, as well as the opportunities for growth. 

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

MH: The most challenging (and exciting) part of my job is taking a client's idea and making it come to life. 

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

MH: I have been in the automotive industry for 10 years. My start was holding car shows! 

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

MH: Three qualities that got me to where I am would be determination, passion, and exuberance. These qualities have benefited me by providing me with the energy and drive to follow what I am enthusiastic about. 

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

MH: The biggest challenge I have faced in this industry is to be taken seriously. For example, this year, I am celebrating 10 years of holding car shows. A man who had never been to one of my shows before was looking at the cars while judging was taking place. I was judging cars, and this man said to me "Do you even know enough about cars to be doing what you're doing?" I stuck my hand out to shake his and said, "Hi, I'm Melanie, and I run Mel's Car Shows." He went on to ask me how long I've been holding shows and commented about "utilizing the space better" for the event.  

My biggest accomplishments in this industry would be receiving the title of 2022 WTAJ's Remarkable Woman, earning the title of Ms. Motorama, and celebrating 10 years of holding car shows. To date, I have raised over $160,000 for nonprofits and charities in need. 

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

MH: My role models in the industry include Jessi Combs, Bogi, and my boss, Zan Martin.  

These women are leaders and trailblazers in this industry by following their beliefs while teaching and encouraging others along the way. 

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

MH: The best career advice I ever received was very simple advice; keep working hard. 

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

MH: I have always loved cars but never thought of working in the automotive industry until I got a job. Then I knew I had to stay in the automotive industry! What keeps me in the automotive industry is the constant opportunity to learn. 

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

MH: The most influential person in my career and goals would be my Dad. I grew up watching him work on cars, he was always willing to teach me and is my biggest supporter. 

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

With the aid of 200 robots, the facility has the capacity to produce 30,000 customizable electric vehicles annually.

Hyundai has launched a new manufacturing facility in Singapore operated partially by robots, robot dogs and artificial intelligence, the automaker announced.

With the aid of 200 robots, the facility, called the "Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore," has the capacity to produce 30,000 customizable electric vehicles (EVs) annually.

According to the manufacturer, robots handle 50% of all tasks at the facility, including assembly, inspection and production plus 60% of component processing, ordering and transport, allowing human workers to focus on more creative and strategic tasks.

The tech hub also provides flexible vehicle customization, test drives, VR factory tours and more.

Operational since early 2023, the facility produces the IONIQ 5 and will add the IONIQ 6 to its portfolio of models built on-site next year. It will also serve as a testing facility for future vehicle development.

For more information, visit the Hyundai Motor Group website.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA and PRI have published the Member Code of Conduct, posted in its entirety below. Learn more here or download the PDF here.

I. SCOPE.

Specialty Equipment Market Association & Performance Racing, Inc. ("SEMA/PRI" or "Association") has adopted this Code of Conduct ("Code"), which applies to all members of the Association as well as other guests who participate in or attend SEMA/PRI events and activities.

II. PURPOSE.

This Code is in support of the SEMA/PRI mission to help its members succeed and prosper. SEMA/PRI's membership consists of the producers and marketers of specialty-equipment products and services for the automotive aftermarket and motor sports industry. SEMA/PRI's programs support its mission and the Association's Directors and staff are guided by this purpose. The Association is proud of the values with which it conducts business. It has and will continue to uphold a high level of integrity in all of its actions and relationships. The Association promotes a professional and collegial environment that values respect and fairness and its policies for employees and others reflect that commitment.

III. APPROPRIATE CONDUCT AND AVOIDANCE OF CONFLICTS WITH THE ASSOCIATION.

Each member, and/or its representatives, as well as business guests invited to, participating in, or attending any SEMA/PRI activity, program, event conference or Show, as well as their interaction with the Association's members, directors, officers or staff, shall:

1. Abide by the Bylaws any and all policies adopted by the Association.
2. Conduct themselves in Association initiatives, events or activities in a legal, non-offensive manner, avoiding inappropriate or disruptive behavior, being responsive to any lawful requests of the Board of Directors, Committee Leadership or staff.
3. Avoid any business relationship or activity that is in conflict with and directly competes with the Association.
4. Not attempt to misappropriate confidential information relating to the operation of the Association and its business affairs. Confidential information includes but is not limited to all non-public information relating to the Association's strategies, business or contractual relationships, personnel records, financial affairs, legislative strategies, past or future member affiliations, or any other information relating to the Association's operations, business affairs or strategy.

No member of the Association will do any of the following:

1. Falsely represent having authority to speak for or act on behalf of the Association in any business matters, contracts, agreements or in any written, electronic or oral communications regarding the Association.
2. Use any SEMA/PRI trademark, service mark, name, logo or branding in an unauthorized or deceptive way that suggests a relationship or endorsement with the Association that does not exist.
3. Engage in threatening, demeaning or harassing behavior of any kind at Association events, initiatives or activities or in their interaction with the Association's directors, officers, members or employees.
4. Misappropriate the Association's property, financial resources, or services of the Association's personnel for personal benefit.

IV. REPORTING FOR COMPLIANCE.

It is the responsibility of members and/or its representatives and SEMA/PRI guests to comply with this Code of Conduct and they will report violations or suspected violations to the Chief Executive Officer or his/her designee for purposes of the operation of the policy. All reported violations will be reviewed, pursuant to Section V, and violations of this Code may lead to disciplinary action, which may include but is not limited to, conducting corrective actions as requested by the Association, reprimand, suspension, and/or revocation of membership.

V. DUE DILLIGENCE PROCEDURES.

1. Any complaint must be in writing, signed by the complaining party (the "Complainant"), shall state the matter complained of in detail, and be accompanied by materials the Complainant wishes to bring to the attention of the Association (collectively referred to as "Complaining Materials").

2. The Complaining Materials must be sent to Association headquarters within twelve (12) months of the occurrence of the conduct which is the subject matter of the complaining materials.

3. The Complaining Materials are reviewed by designated staff and counsel to determine if the conduct complained of involves a possible violation of this Code, or might otherwise constitute conduct detrimental to the Association.

4. If it is determined that the Complaining Materials do not involve a possible violation, the Complainant is informed and the matter is closed. If it is determined that the Complaining Materials may involve a possible violation, the Ethics Committee is informed and the Complaining Materials may be further investigated by staff/counsel to collect additional evidence.

5. Once the collection process is deemed sufficiently complete, a summary document will be created and will be sent to the alleged infringer with a request for a written response. The response must be in writing, signed, and shall be accompanied by all materials the alleged infringer wishes to bring to the attention of the Association in response to complaining materials ("Responding Materials").

6. The Complaining and Responding Materials are then reviewed by the Association's Ethics Committee to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant a disciplinary proceeding. In making their determination, the Ethics Committee may request additional information from either the Complainant or the alleged infringer. A copy of any such additional information provided by a party will, if the matter proceeds to a disciplinary hearing, be provided by the Association to the other party prior to the date of any disciplinary hearing.

7. If the Ethics Committee concludes that a disciplinary hearing is not warranted, both parties are informed in writing of such determination and the matter is closed.

8. If the Ethics Committee determines that a disciplinary hearing is warranted, then the Association shall send notice of the disciplinary hearing to the parties prior to the date of the disciplinary hearing. The notice of disciplinary hearing shall specify the date, time and place (including virtual) of the hearing.

9. Either party may submit such other written materials they wish to bring to the attention of the Ethics Committee ("Additional Materials"), provided such Additional Materials are received at Association's headquarters no later than twenty (20) days prior to the hearing date. A copy of Additional Materials submitted by a party must be sent by the submitting party to the other party by certified mail, return receipt requested, so that the same materials will be received by the other party no later than fifteen (15) days preceding the hearing date.

10. The Complainant shall be required to participate in the hearing in the manner described below. If the Complainant fails to participate in the hearing for any reason, the complaint will be dismissed as against the Complainant with prejudice to Complainant's right to file another complaint against the alleged infringer in connection with the subject matter that was set forth in the complaint. The Complainant and the alleged infringer shall participate in the hearing via video teleconferencing, telephone conference call, or other available electronic conferencing method. The Complainant and the alleged infringer shall each provide the Association with written notice, no later than ten (10) days prior to the hearing date, containing information as to whether they plan to participate in the hearing in person or via legal counsel, a telephone number where they may be reached on the date of the hearing, and a list of witnesses if applicable.

11. No recording or transcript of such hearing shall be made unless it is specifically requested and paid for in advance by the requesting party. The hearing process shall be treated confidentially by the participants.

12. After the hearing, the Ethics Committee shall meet to consider the proceedings that have occurred, the evidence presented, any prior precedential rulings, and determine any disciplinary action to be taken (including any applicable time frame). The recommendation(s) of the Ethics Committee shall be submitted to the SEMA/PRI Executive Committee for final disposition (which may include consideration by the Board of Directors).

13. Any disciplinary action shall be communicated to the alleged infringer in writing. The Complainant shall not be informed of the outcome.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Virginia legislators have introduced companion bills (H.B. 3 and S.B. 3) to repeal the Commonwealth's zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandates.

The legislation, filed by Delegate Tony Wilt and Senator Richard Stuart, follows SEMA's first-ever independent expenditure effort in Virginia's November elections around the state's attachment to California's emissions standards, including its impending zero-emissions vehicle mandates. The mandates would require that all sales of new cars and trucks be 100% zero emissions by 2035. However, earlier mandates start in 2026, with 35% of new vehicle sales required to be zero emissions.

If passed, the companion bills would repeal Virigina's zero-emissions vehicle mandates set to take effect by 2035.

SEMA's Driving Force Action targeted four senate races in November, educating voters about the Commonwealth's attachment to California's regulations. Three of the four senate candidates in those races won. One critical race that was influenced in this cycle was District 24, where candidate Sheriff Danny Diggs defeated the incumbent, Senator Monty Mason, a staunch supporter of the internal combustion engine (ICE) ban policy and the deciding vote to block the repeal of Virginia's ICE ban law earlier this year. Other notable shifts were in District 17, where Emily Brewer defeated Clinton Jenkins, and District 27, where Tara Durant upset Joel Griffin. The candidates who won committed to repealing the ZEV mandate. SEMA's Driving Force Action campaign was active in educating voters about the ZEV mandate in these districts. A complete post-election analysis of the Driving Force Action campaign can be downloaded here.

Polling conducted statewide in Virginia by SEMA in late 2022 showed that 81% of Virginia voters had heard little or nothing at all about the ban. The same poll showed that once voters learned of the ban, 62% opposed it. Driving Force Action conducted a short IVR poll in mid-October to test awareness of Virginia's attachment to California's ban on the sale of new gas-powered cars, following six weeks of education in the four senate district races the campaign targeted. There was a significant increase in awareness, with only 16% of Republican and 12% of Independent voters unaware of the issue. This poll also showed that a majority of Republican and Independent voters would support a candidate if they supported the repeal of Virginia's ICE-ban law.

Voters acknowledged that prioritizing the green agenda of California's unelected bureaucrats and a select few politicians over the jobs and livelihoods of millions who use cars every day was not something lawmakers should pursue.

SEMA calls on Virginia's newly elected legislators to support these two repeal bills.

By SEMA News Editors 

The PRI Show, December 7-9 in downtown Indianapolis, provides dozens of conferences, seminars, social gatherings and more events to help the industry share new ideas. Among the activities are networking opportunities and events from the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Future Leaders Network (FLN) and the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC). 

Women racing professionals are encouraged to register to share their expertise with students pursuing careers in the motorsports industry at the 2023 PRI Show. 

SBN Gear-Up Girl Lunch 

Female racing and aftermarket industry professionals will connect with female students pursuing careers in the motorsports industry at the Gear-Up Girl Lunch Powered by SBN on Friday, December 8, 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. EST in Room 208. Reserved only for women, this fun and dynamic event serves as a networking opportunity for professionals to give back and share advice with today's female youth. To RSVP for the Gear-Up Girl Lunch Powered by SBN, click here. 

FLN and MPMC Networking Reception 

On Friday, December 8, from 5:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. EST in the Wabash Ballroom, the FLN and MPMC networking reception will serve as an opportunity to close out day two of the PRI Show while networking with industry friends and colleagues in a relaxed setting. The event features complimentary hot hors d'oeuvres and drinks, and will include the induction of the next MPMC Hall of Fame member. Select committee members will be on-site to answer questions about council and network membership, and limited quantities of SEMA swag will be available too! To RSVP for the reception, click here. 

For more information on the 2023 PRI Show, including how to register, visit performanceracing.com/tradeshow. 

By SEMA News Editors

TechForce Foundation Appoints New Chief Growth Officer, Board Members

The TechForce Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the technician workforce, has appointed Jennifer Bergeron as its first chief growth officer. Additionally, Dave Smith, Bill Willetts and Matt Hartford have joined its Board of Directors.

Bergeron brings more than 20 years of experience in technical education and organizational management to TechForce and spent 13 years as the campus president of NASCAR Technical Institute in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Hartford is the president and CEO of Total Seal Piston Rings, and first joined Total Seal Piston Rings as Lead Engineer in 1998. Hartford also started a drag racing career in 1988 and currently races in the NHRA PRO STOCK category.

Willetts, vice president of Snap-on Industrial, has spent his career with the company since first joining as a sales rep in 1994. He also served as chairman of the board of NC SkillsUSA from 2010 through 2022.

Smith, principal at DGS Group, also joins the board, and previously served as senior vice president, supply chain strategy at Caliber Collision.

For more information, visit techforce.org.

Racing & Performance Holdings Announces Appointment of Mark Finnie as CEO

Racing & Performance Holdings (R&P Holdings) has announced the appointment of Mark Finnie, a seasoned automotive industry veteran, as its new CEO. R&P Holdings is a Taglich Private Equity portfolio business, and its brands include Vortech Superchargers, RaceTec Pistons, PROCAR Custom Seating, Air Flow Research and SCAT Crankshafts.

Finnie held various leadership positions within the automotive industry with notable roles, including the founder of Forge-Tec Wheels; vice president of WELD Racing; president and CEO of Pertronix; and division president for both Vance & Hines and Performance Machine.

"We look to further enhancing SCAT, AFR, Vortech Superchargers, RaceTec Pistons and PROCAR Seating leading positions in the market by leveraging the company's engineering expertise, coupled with our team's automotive aftermarket experience and network," said Finnie.

For more information, visit airflowresearch.com.

LKQ Corp. Announces Executive Leadership Succession Plan

LKQ Corp. has selected Justin Jude, the company's current senior vice president and president of its wholesale-North America segment, to succeed Dominick Zarcone as the president and CEO of the company. Zarcone announced his intent to retire from his role effective June 30, 2024.

Jude will serve as the company's executive vice president and COO from January 1, 2024, until he officially succeeds Zarcone as president and CEO on July 1, 2024.

An LKQ employee since 2004, Jude has held various leadership roles across the company's North American sales, supply chain and information systems departments. From June 2014 to July 2015, he served as president of the company's specialty segment, and as president of the wholesale-North America segment since July 2015.

For more information, visit lkqcorp.com.

RNR Tire Express Names Trish Deschenes as Director of Franchise Sales

RNR Tire Express (RNR), the Tampa, Florida-based tire and custom wheel retail franchise, has named Trish Deschenes as its new director of franchise sales.

In her new role, Deschenes will be responsible for educating prospective franchisees on RNR, elevating sales practices and capabilities and executing on the franchise's multi-unit ownership directive, the company said.

"Our team has some incredible milestones on the horizon, such as welcoming our 200th location in the new year," said Larry Sutton, founder and CEO of RNR. "Trish's introduction to the RNR family is meant to do so much more than help us get there, but to ensure it’s another milestone in a long line of those to come."

For more information, visit rnrtires.com.

The following message is from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola: 

Dear SEMA Member:  

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.  

 The following seats are open for the 2024 election:

• Manufacturer (two open seats) 
• Distributor/Retailer (two open seats) 
• Service (one open seat) 

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, please include brief information about the nominee's qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due on Friday, January 5, 2024. Please complete and submit your nomination form.  

We urge you to take part in the nomination process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the nominating committee. 

Thank you for your attention to this important request. 

Sincerely, 

Mike Spagnola 

SEMA President and CEO