By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

As of February 8, 2020, imported bumper stampings for motor vehicles (HTSUS 8708.10.30) will now be subject to the 25% steel tariffs and 10% aluminum tariffs. The tariffs are above any duties already being collected. Several countries are exempted from the tariffs: Argentina, Australia, Canada and Mexico for the aluminum tariffs, and Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and South Korea for the steel tariffs.

When the additional tariffs were announced, they would have also applied to body stampings for motor vehicles. However, the body stamping tariffs were later limited to tractors for agricultural use (8708.29.21). 

The U.S. government first began imposing the metal tariffs in March 2018 based on a finding that a global over-supply had depressed prices and posed a national security threat to U.S. domestic production. Until now, the tariffs only applied to processed raw materials (steel/aluminum plate, sheets, bars, etc.), not finished products (e.g., wheels, exhausts, etc.). Over the past two years, however, the Trump Administration has documented a dramatic increase in the volume of certain finished products that could be construed as circumventing the tariffs. Products identified include bumper and body stampings along with nails, staples, electrical wire and several other products. The Administration’s goal is to maintain domestic steel production at or above 80% capacity levels and to stabilize aluminum production.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Show website has been updated to improve ease of navigation for a more user-friendly experience. Now, upon landing on the homepage, users can choose between “exhibitor,” “attendee” and “media” buttons, which open up to a unique page specific to the needs of each type of Show participant.

The newly designed www.SEMAShow.com website’s landing page offers navigation options for exhibitors, attendees and media.

For instance, the exhibitor page provides information that includes links to the Exhibitor Services Manual, booth rates and sponsorships. It also features step-by-step instructions that guide exhibitors through the entire process, from reserving their booths to getting to the Las Vegas Convention Center. The attendee page offers reasons to attend the Show, a SEMA Education schedule, links to the New Products Showcase and resources for international visitors. Users can choose from seven different languages. The media page helps media attendees to prepare for the Show by providing information about the Media Center, how to submit press releases and links to celebrity appearances.

Each page, regardless of whether you’re an exhibitor, attendee or member of the media, features a map of the floorplan, information about transportation to and from the Show, and travel and lodging through OnPeak—the SEMA Show's official housing partner. OnPeak is the only hotel provider endorsed by SEMA. Showgoers are encouraged to book through OnPeak early for the best selection and price. Check out the latest rates available at www.SEMAShow.com.

5 Benefits of Booking Your Hotel Through www.SEMAShow.com:

• Deep Discounts – Buy-in-bulk rates available, with the savings passed on to you.
• Best Rate Pledge – We comparison shop to ensure that our rates remain the lowest.
• Easy Booking – Intuitive software makes booking fast, simple and secure.
• Hotel Reward Points – Get credit for your hotel loyalty program.
• Group Bookings – Fully manage your group booking, large or small, with robust tools.

The 2020 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6. For complete information about the 2020 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Show website has been updated to improve ease of navigation for a more user-friendly experience. Now, upon landing on the homepage, users can choose between “exhibitor,” “attendee” and “media” buttons, which open up to a unique page specific to the needs of each type of Show participant.

The newly designed www.SEMAShow.com website’s landing page offers navigation options for exhibitors, attendees and media.

For instance, the exhibitor page provides information that includes links to the Exhibitor Services Manual, booth rates and sponsorships. It also features step-by-step instructions that guide exhibitors through the entire process, from reserving their booths to getting to the Las Vegas Convention Center. The attendee page offers reasons to attend the Show, a SEMA Education schedule, links to the New Products Showcase and resources for international visitors. Users can choose from seven different languages. The media page helps media attendees to prepare for the Show by providing information about the Media Center, how to submit press releases and links to celebrity appearances.

Each page, regardless of whether you’re an exhibitor, attendee or member of the media, features a map of the floorplan, information about transportation to and from the Show, and travel and lodging through OnPeak—the SEMA Show's official housing partner. OnPeak is the only hotel provider endorsed by SEMA. Showgoers are encouraged to book through OnPeak early for the best selection and price. Check out the latest rates available at www.SEMAShow.com.

5 Benefits of Booking Your Hotel Through www.SEMAShow.com:

• Deep Discounts – Buy-in-bulk rates available, with the savings passed on to you.
• Best Rate Pledge – We comparison shop to ensure that our rates remain the lowest.
• Easy Booking – Intuitive software makes booking fast, simple and secure.
• Hotel Reward Points – Get credit for your hotel loyalty program.
• Group Bookings – Fully manage your group booking, large or small, with robust tools.

The 2020 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6. For complete information about the 2020 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By Richard Hail

	The “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special re-airs Thursday, February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST) on A+E Networks’ FYI.

The “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special re-airs Thursday, February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST) on A+E Networks’ FYI. If you don’t want to wait that long, you can also experience it on the HISTORY Channel app or through HISTORY On Demand.

Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Tanner Foust host as top vehicle builders showcase their talents at the annual Battle of the Builders competition. Across four categories—Hot Rod, Truck/Off-Road, Sport Compact and Young Guns—these builders face off to find out who will be crowned Builder of the Year.

For more details about SEMA Battle of the Builders and the TV special re-airing February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST), visit HISTORY On Demand, A+E Networks’ FYI or download the HISTORY App for your iOS or Android device.

For more information about the Battle of the Builders program, point your browser to www.semabotb.com.

By Richard Hail

	The “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special re-airs Thursday, February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST) on A+E Networks’ FYI.

The “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special re-airs Thursday, February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST) on A+E Networks’ FYI. If you don’t want to wait that long, you can also experience it on the HISTORY Channel app or through HISTORY On Demand.

Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Tanner Foust host as top vehicle builders showcase their talents at the annual Battle of the Builders competition. Across four categories—Hot Rod, Truck/Off-Road, Sport Compact and Young Guns—these builders face off to find out who will be crowned Builder of the Year.

For more details about SEMA Battle of the Builders and the TV special re-airing February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST), visit HISTORY On Demand, A+E Networks’ FYI or download the HISTORY App for your iOS or Android device.

For more information about the Battle of the Builders program, point your browser to www.semabotb.com.

By Richard Hail

	The “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special re-airs Thursday, February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST) on A+E Networks’ FYI.

The “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special re-airs Thursday, February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST) on A+E Networks’ FYI. If you don’t want to wait that long, you can also experience it on the HISTORY Channel app or through HISTORY On Demand.

Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Tanner Foust host as top vehicle builders showcase their talents at the annual Battle of the Builders competition. Across four categories—Hot Rod, Truck/Off-Road, Sport Compact and Young Guns—these builders face off to find out who will be crowned Builder of the Year.

For more details about SEMA Battle of the Builders and the TV special re-airing February 13, at 10:00 p.m. (EST), visit HISTORY On Demand, A+E Networks’ FYI or download the HISTORY App for your iOS or Android device.

For more information about the Battle of the Builders program, point your browser to www.semabotb.com.

By Fredy Ramirez

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is “data central” for hundreds of specialty parts brands, representing millions of part numbers and tens of millions of vehicle applications. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository, complete with a comprehensive set of online data management tools.

The product releases below are from SEMA members who are also part of the SDC at the the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

SDC members are invited to submit new-product press releases for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Radium Fuel Rail Plumbing Kit Radium announces the release of its fuel rail plumbing kit for the Nissan GTR R35. Stainless-steel mounts are provided for the kit. Low profile 90-degree SAE adapters with PTFE fuel hoses connect the OEM hard fuel lines to the fuel rails. PTFE fuel lines run from the rails to the rear fuel rail ports. Two Radium fuel pulse dampers and a pressure gauge are included, as well as all necessary adapter fittings. 971-990-1141 www.radiumauto.com PN: 20-0556-PK
Mishimoto Radiator Hoses Mishimoto introduces a radiator hose kit for the Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8. The kits are manufactured with high-grade silicone and four layers of heat-resistant embedded fibers designed to provide increased pressure and temperature tolerance. The Mishimoto radiator hose kit is engineered for use on both stock and modified trucks for any environment or terrain. 877-466-4744 www.mishimoto.com PN: MMHOSE-WK2-11
Oracle Lighting ORACLE Lighting has released its new Jeep Wrangler JL Cargo LED Light Module. The modules are designed for ’18–’20 Jeep Wrangler JL models. The Cargo LED Light Module can be turned on and off with the flush switches located on the panel. The dual white LED Cargo light function provides illumination and the added feature of the emergency flasher. 800-407-5776 www.oraclelights.com PN: 5858-023

By Fredy Ramirez

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is “data central” for hundreds of specialty parts brands, representing millions of part numbers and tens of millions of vehicle applications. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository, complete with a comprehensive set of online data management tools.

The product releases below are from SEMA members who are also part of the SDC at the the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

SDC members are invited to submit new-product press releases for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Radium Fuel Rail Plumbing Kit Radium announces the release of its fuel rail plumbing kit for the Nissan GTR R35. Stainless-steel mounts are provided for the kit. Low profile 90-degree SAE adapters with PTFE fuel hoses connect the OEM hard fuel lines to the fuel rails. PTFE fuel lines run from the rails to the rear fuel rail ports. Two Radium fuel pulse dampers and a pressure gauge are included, as well as all necessary adapter fittings. 971-990-1141 www.radiumauto.com PN: 20-0556-PK
Mishimoto Radiator Hoses Mishimoto introduces a radiator hose kit for the Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8. The kits are manufactured with high-grade silicone and four layers of heat-resistant embedded fibers designed to provide increased pressure and temperature tolerance. The Mishimoto radiator hose kit is engineered for use on both stock and modified trucks for any environment or terrain. 877-466-4744 www.mishimoto.com PN: MMHOSE-WK2-11
Oracle Lighting ORACLE Lighting has released its new Jeep Wrangler JL Cargo LED Light Module. The modules are designed for ’18–’20 Jeep Wrangler JL models. The Cargo LED Light Module can be turned on and off with the flush switches located on the panel. The dual white LED Cargo light function provides illumination and the added feature of the emergency flasher. 800-407-5776 www.oraclelights.com PN: 5858-023

By SEMA Editors

John Waraniak, SAE Fellow 2019

John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology, has been elected an SAE Fellow for his significant technical achievements and industry contributions in both automotive and aerospace. In his role as SEMA’s chief technology officer since May 2006, Waraniak has assisted performance aftermarket companies to integrate their products with the latest advanced vehicle technologies and capitalize on new business and product-development opportunities. He has also helped them to customize with confidence by connecting SEMA manufacturers with engineering resources, capabilities and tools to manage disruptive vehicle technologies and ensure compliance with the latest industry standards and best practices.

The highest grade of SAE International membership, this distinctive honor recognizes long-term members who have made a significant impact on society’s mobility technology through leadership, research and innovation. Electing Waraniak as an SAE Fellow acknowledges the role the performance aftermarket plays in the auto industry. It also helps drive new opportunities for SEMA members to grow and prosper through automaker collaboration and representation on SAE industry initiatives and task forces developing emerging standards for connected, automated and electrified vehicles.

Waraniak will be inducted into the Class of 2019 at the SAE Awards Ceremony, held at WCX World Congress Experience in Detroit, April 20. His nomination was led by his long-time mentor and good friend Dr. David Cole, chairman emeritus of the Center for Automotive Research, as well as documented support from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting and industry colleagues, including Mark Reuss, president, General Motors; Paul Mascarenas, 2019 SAE president; Roy Link, chairman and CEO at Link Engineering; and Mircea Gradu, senior vice president of product and quality at Velodyne Lidar.

“I have known and worked with John for 14 years. His accomplishments and contributions have helped automotive aftermarket companies understand the latest advanced vehicle technologies and develop solutions to capitalize on new product and business opportunities. He is most worthy of recognition as an SAE Fellow,” said Kersting.

Waraniak has been involved in the aerospace, automotive, racing and performance industries for more than 25 years with wide-ranging systems engineering experience, innovative technology insights and frontline experience for competing and winning in today’s Automotive 4.0 transformation. His leadership and contributions to vehicle dynamics testing, functional and regulatory safety compliance in the United States were instrumental in helping the Australian government and Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association with new legislation and Australian design rules and national standards for electronic stability control performance of aftermarket-modified vehicles.  

This is Henry Ford’s 1905 SAE application. The highest grade of SAE International membership, this distinctive honor recognizes long-term members who have made a significant impact on society’s mobility technology through leadership, research and innovation.

Waraniak has held executive management positions at General Motors, Hughes Aircraft, Northrop and No Fear. While at General Motors and Hughes Aircraft, he led the corporate-wide transfer of technology and best practices from Hughes to GM to deliver results for improved safety, performance, electronics and winning motorsports programs. He was one the founding members of the GM sports medicine and science program, where he helped lead the development of many of today’s race safety innovations, including the industry’s first crash event data recorders, the critically important HANS device and the first racing heads-up display adapted from military jet-fighter technology.

He was also the lead engineer for structural integrity, durability and damage tolerance design on the USAF B-2 stealth bomber program and Aircraft Structural Integrity Program with a top-secret NSA security clearance while at Northrop. He successfully predicted fatigue and fracture results and compliance with Military Standard MIL-STD-1530D and Air Force Policy Directive 63-10 for aircraft structural integrity of classified mission-critical military fighter and bomber aircraft systems.

Waraniak is a devoted advocate for professional development of engineers, next-generation talent pipelines and the digital hot-rod movement connecting generative design with additive manufacturing and spatial web platforms. He recently presented “The SEMA Engineering Story” with Ed “Isky” Iskenderian at an SAE Event in the SEMA Garage and is currently a director of the Carroll A. Campbell Jr., Graduate Engineering Center External Advisory Board at Clemson University, member of the Vision Zero Automotive Network Advisory Board and an advisor to the Indy Autonomous Challenge.

As one of the initial members of the CU-ICAR Deep Orange Program since its inception in 2008, Waraniak’s leadership has supported all 12 generations of the innovative Deep Orange vehicle prototyping program and more than 300 graduate engineers. His CU-ICAR contributions continue to help educate future automotive engineering leaders who are developing sustainable mobility solutions by balancing performance, environmental, social and economic aspects, as well as helping ensure that Clemson maintains highly competitive research and educational programs in automotive engineering and innovative strategic initiatives.

Born and raised in the Motor City of Detroit, Waraniak is an avid auto industry and motocross enthusiast. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan, the University of Illinois and Caltech’s executive engineering management program.

By Luis Morales

Diran 410MF07—a nylon-based thermoplastic—is a tough material that is resistant to hydrocarbon-based chemicals.

SEMA members and non-members are invited to learn about a new material and applications in 3-D printing during a free online seminar hosted by Stratasys and SEMA Garage staff, Friday, January 31, from 10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. (PST).

The webinar will introduce a new Stratasys material known as Diran 410MF07—a nylon-based thermoplastic. The hosts will demonstrate the material’s toughness, impact strength and resistance to hydrocarbon-based chemicals. Diran applications can range from tooling to fixtures, which will be covered in detail.

Learn more and sign up for the free seminar.

Agenda:

10:00 a.m.–10:05 a.m. – Introductions and overview of the SEMA Garage facility and services it provides.
Presenters: Stratasys and SEMA Garage staff member

10:05 a.m.–10:30 a.m. – Stratasys overview of Diran 410MF07 and applications in the automotive industry.
Presenter: Stratasys staff member

10:30 a.m.–10:45 a.m. – Q&A through Webex Chat
Presenters: Stratasys and SEMA Garage staff member