By SEMA Editors

Part of the SEMA Show planning process is securing a hotel that will fit your needs. Location, low price, amenities and ratings are all factors in determining the right place to stay for November.

To make the process quick and affordable, the SEMA Show Block website lists all the hotels available, the prices, distance from Show and more. Hotels booked in the Block are backed by a low-price guarantee. To ensure that your price remains the lowest, SEMA will price-match lower advertised rates, even after your reservations are set.

There are more than 30 properties to choose from in the Show Block. As an added benefit, SEMA provides shuttle service to and from the Show for hotels that are not within walking distance to the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The 2023 SEMA Show takes place October 31–November 3, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Exhibitors that would like to be part of the 2023 SEMA Show can get started at www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

Registration for the Show is available www.SEMAShow.com/register.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is planning its 2023 education program and has issued a call for speakers for its annual SEMA Show—taking place in Las Vegas, October 31–November 3—and its year-round virtual education program. Dynamic and entertaining presenters now have until February 10 to apply to share new skills and ideas targeted to the automotive aftermarket at www.sema.org/speakers.

Organizers are seeking experts who can facilitate thought-provoking, forward-thinking seminars that will help industry members take their businesses and careers to the next level.

SEMA’s year-round virtual program provides relevant, engaging and inspiring information on the industry’s complex issues and topics through online events and informational webinars. Likewise, the educational seminars make up one of the key pillars of the SEMA Show, where thousands of industry professionals come to learn new business strategies.

Topics of focus for 2023 include:

• Aftermarket updates and future trends
• Diversity, equity and inclusion
• Electric vehicles
• Emerging and executive leadership
• Legal and regulatory
• Sales and marketing
• Small-business strategy
• Vehicle technology
• Specific industry segments

Speaker proposals for the 2023 SEMA Show must be submitted by February 10. Virtual education proposals can be submitted at any time throughout the year. Submit proposals at www.sema.org/speakers.

For more details, contact Gary Vigil, senior manager of professional development, at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest jobs posted to the website.

Latest Jobs Added to SEMA Career Center

Regional Sales Manager
LIQUI MOLY USA

LIQUI MOLY USA is hiring a regional sales manager to develop sales strategies and increase the overall sales of LIQUI MOLY products; build new business relationships with business owners in the automotive aftermarket through distributors, service dealers and fleets; manage current customer partnerships with all channel levels; and conduct trainings that teach customers how to sell and use LIQUI MOLY products. Candidates must have a minimum of five years’ experience in field sales management (preferably in lubricant products or the automotive aftermarket).

Videographer
Power Automedia

Power Automedia is hiring a videographer to manage the Power + Performance YouTube page and its social-media channels. The YouTube page currently has more than 100,000 subscribers but we are looking to push it to the next level, leveraging its nine existing magazine brands as well as creating unique content for the channel. This position will have a front-row seat for project builds, testing new products, the hottest events, new-car launches and industry trade shows—pointing the camera and collaborating with the magazine staff.

Vehicle Fabricator
Brandmotion

Brandmotion is hiring a vehicle fabricator to build-up prototype autonomous vehicles as well as prototype installations on factory vehicles. An individual in this position will work closely with product development. The successful candidate for this role has a self-starting mentality, fully developed fabrication skills to influence both engineers and technicians and enjoys working hands-on with prototype vehicles.

By SEMA Editors

Dates and locations have been scheduled for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, measuring sessions and activities.

  By Ashley Reyes

Five of SEMA’s leading groups—the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), Wheel & Tire Council (WTC), SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) and Future Leaders Network (FLN)—will host a cross-council mixer for its members at the 2023 Keystone BIG Show.  

Taking place Friday, February 10, from 3:15 p.m.–4:15 p.m. (MST) at the Ski Village inside the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora, Colorado, the event is the ideal place for members to expand their professional network by making new connections. Attendees also will learn about SEMA’s resources and programs, plans for the year and enjoy complimentary snacks and cold drinks.

Registration is requested so that event coordinators can plan accordingly.

RSVP for the mixer now.

 By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members are invited to connect with Vin Anatra of Hoonigan during the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Facebook and Instagram live chat, Wednesday, February 15, at 12:00 p.m. (PST).  

An inexperienced kid from New York with a passion for cars, Anatra helped build one of the most notable and influential brands in the automotive apparel and media space—Hoonigan. He will now go live to share his expertise on the importance of content creation in the automotive aftermarket’s marketing mix and how to turn content into tangible and sellable assets.

Anatra moved to Los Angeles in 2015 to work for the brand as an entry-level marketing coordinator. At 34 years old, he is senior vice president of partnerships and has put together more than $20 million in brand deals with automakers, 10 of the top Fortune 100 companies and a majority of the endemic aftermarket.  

SEMA members will have the opportunity to ask Anatra questions as he discusses the importance of content creation in our industry, and how he’s pivoted and evolved with the ever-changing digital landscape with authenticity as his north star.

This story was originally published on February 7, 2023. For more industry news, visit SEMANews.com and subscribe to SEMA News at the bottom of the webpage to get the latest updates straight to your inbox, twice a week.

Ford Returns to Formula 1; Strategic Partner to Oracle Red Bull Racing for 2026 Season and Beyond

After more than two decades, Ford is returning to Formula 1. The automaker and Red Bull Powertrains are entering into a long-term strategic technical partnership for the development of a next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onward. Red Bull Ford will provide the power units for both the Oracle Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri teams from 2026 to at least 2030.

Starting from 2023, Ford and Red Bull Powertrains will work to develop the power unit that will be part of the new technical regulations, including a 350 kW electric motor and a new combustion engine able to accept fully sustainable fuels, ready for the 2026 season. Ford will provide technical expertise in all areas where it can add value to the front-running world championship team. Areas to be explored together are in the combustion engine development and key developments like battery cell and electric motor technology, power unit control software and analytics.

Ford is investing $50 billion to lead the EV revolution around the world. Ford is working to meet increased consumer demand and deliver an annual run rate of 600,000 electric vehicles globally by the end of this year and 2 million globally by the end of 2026 as part of its Ford+ plan.

In 2026, Ford will compete in racing disciplines from grassroots motorsports to Formula 1 comprising WEC and IMSA, including Le Mans 24 Hours with Mustang GT3, WRC with the M-Sport Ford Puma Hybrid Rally1, Baja 1000 with Ranger Raptor and Bronco, and NASCAR, NHRA and Supercars with Mustang.

Ford Performance and Bronco to Defend King of the Hammers Stock Racing Class Crown

Ford Performance and Bronco has returned to the King of the Hammers Ultra4 off-road races in Johnson Valley, California, to defend last year’s 1-2-3 podium sweep in the Every Man Challenge 4600 stock class and go for the win in the 4400 Unlimited class.

Billed as the toughest one-day off-road racing series in America, the 17th annual King of the Hammers, held February 2–11, presents the utmost challenge to showcase state-of-the-art off-road technologies and the Built Wild mental fortitude of drivers across a myriad of diverse terrain. The event also serves as the start to the Ultra4 Off-Road Racing season.

King of the Hammers consists of 90-mile courses across high-speed desert sands and rock crawling across tricky terrain. It is one of the most extreme off-road competitions in the world. Each year, a pop-up city of 80,000 spectators converges on the barren Johnson Valley to watch the race, with millions more viewing online.

The Every Man Challenge features Bronco 4600s, which start their lives as stock production Bronco SUVs at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant before being modified to align to race class specifications. Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Loren Healy, Bailey Cole and Jason Scherer, and defending race winners Brad and Roger Lovell all return as driver/co-driver highlights to the entry list.

Scherer and Healy (both three-time overall Hammers champs) as well as Gittin Jr. (2021 Ultra4 4400 champ) are driving double-duty during the event, also competing in the Race of the Kings in Bronco 4400s, the original unlimited class that helped launch King of the Hammers many years ago.

The 4400 vehicles are all-out custom-built marauders, featuring tubular chassis, powerful engines and massive tires. However, production vehicle innovations also come into play, with the Bronco 4400s utilizing Fox’s live valve shock technology also found on the Bronco Raptor.

Several Ford Performance hero vehicles are on display at the event for fans to see up close, including the ’19 Bronco R race prototype, ’22 Baja 1000-winning Ranger Raptor, three-in-a-row Rebelle Rally-winning Bronco Sport, as well as Bronco DR. Fans can also venture over to the Bronco Nation Basecamp, located right in Hammertown, to visit with fellow Bronco enthusiasts. To learn more about the Bronco two-door, four-door and Bronco Sport models, please visit Ford.com/Bronco.

For more racing news, visit Performance Racing Industry’s (PRI) website.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D-Burbank) has introduced Senate Bill 301—a bill sponsored by SEMA to create a financial rebate program for converting gas- and diesel-powered motor vehicles into zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs). The legislation will allow California to support small businesses and maintain its rich car culture, while assisting consumers who want to convert their vehicles to cleaner engines.

SEMA is sponsoring the legislation, embracing the innovation of the auto industry as it works to make ZEV ownership more accessible following a similar bill introduced last year that passed in the Assembly with zero opposition.

“The aftermarket is a leader in innovation, and that includes in zero-emissions technologies,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “SB 301 creates opportunities for our California-based small businesses, their employees and consumers to build and have access to affordable ZEVs.”

California has multiple programs, including the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP) and the Clean Cars for All Program, to promote the purchase of new ZEVs. However, none of these programs assist with ZEV conversions of gas-powered vehicles that started their life with an internal-combustion engine. SB 301 addresses consumers’ desire for clean transportation options by funding a creative alternative way to make ZEV ownership more accessible and affordable.

SB 301 also preserves California’s diverse and deep-rooted car culture, while helping the state meet its ambitious climate goals. Classic cars are a core part of American history and many communities across the state. By converting their vehicles to ZEVs, classic-car owners and enthusiasts can retain a piece of California’s history and contribute to a lower-emissions future.

SB 301 will additionally benefit automotive workers and small automotive repair and ZEV conversion businesses. ZEV conversions are a rapidly growing market. Encouraging and assisting in ZEV conversions puts money back into the hands of the small, independently owned businesses to support and create sustainable, good-paying jobs.

The bill will offer eligible Californians a rebate of up to $2,000 to convert their gas-powered vehicle into a ZEV.

“It is essential that we continue to look for new methods and ideas to meet our strong climate goals,” said Senator Portantino. “SB 301 will make it much easier for many Californians who have the desire to go green but lack the financial capacity to do so. It will aid conversion by providing a financial rebate for Californians who choose to convert their gas-powered car into an electric vehicle but can’t afford to do so. Cutting-edge energy efficiency should not be reserved only for those wealthy enough to afford it.”

SEMA encourages its members and enthusiasts in California to contact their lawmakers in support of SB 301.

More information about SB 301 can be found here.

Featured speakers at this year’s California Tire Dealers Association’s CTDA/1-800 EveryRim New Year Luncheon—held January 26 in Santa Fe Springs, California—included Dick Gust, CEO of the Tire Industry Association (TIA), and Carlstar Group’s Steve Swanson, representing SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC), both of whom outlined their organization’s various offerings.

(L–R): SEMA WTC’s Steve Swanson, TIA CEO Dick Gust, CTDA President Chris Barry, Host Billy Eordekian of 1-800EveryRim OEM Wheels, and diamond sponsor Jon Slania of Federated Insurance.

During the festivities, Ken Kevorkian was inducted into the CTDA Hall of Fame. Kevorkian, now retired, was one of the first CTDA members, serving as its president in 1993 and 1994. He also served as a director of the National Tire Dealers and Retreaders Association. In the ’50s, after fighting in the Korean War, he began his career at United Vulcanizing with his father. In addition, Kevorkian chaired the California Transportation Commission after being appointed by Governor George Deukmejian.

As president of the California-Nevada Super Speed Train Commission and as a director for the California State Assistance Fund for Enterprise, Business and Industrial Development, Kevorkian also found time to volunteer as board of trustees chair for the United Armenian Congregational Church in Los Angeles.

“We thank our sponsors without whom this event would not be possible. We were at capacity this year, and we are looking forward to having everyone back, plus more, on January 18, 2024,” said CTDA President Chris Barry of the Independent Tire Dealer Group (ITDG).

CTDA Hall of Fame inductee Ken Kevorkian.

Sponsors of this year’s luncheon were event host 1-800 EveryRim OEM Wheels, diamond sponsor Federated Insurance, gold sponsors Yokohama Tire Corp., Advanced Auto Parts, Mighty Auto Parts, RoboTire, TireTutor and Wholesale Tire Distributors. Silver sponsors were Penn Tires, Optimize Digital Marketing, NetDriven, ShopMonkey, Conceptual Minds and Atturo Tire Corp.

Keystone Automotive Operations announced it will open the 2023 BIG Show Presented by Weather Guard—its annual customer event—with a live demonstration showcasing the 2022 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition finalists and winners. The annual customer-only, business-to-business networking event, to be held for the first time in Colorado at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, February 10–11, will feature receptions, an array of automotive aftermarket exhibitor displays, new products, show vehicles and education, along with substantial show-only sales and promotions.

Led by Emmy Award-winning host, Chris Jacobs, best known for his work on “Overhaulin’” and Mecum Auctions as well as a number of Discovery live specials, the interactive 2023 Battle of the Builders Panel will provide an exclusive, insiders perspective into what it takes to compete and win on the world’s largest automotive stage.

Longtime automotive aftermarket industry veteran, SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera—a former Battle of the Builders judge for many years—will be introduced to provide his insight along with the history and background of the competition as it has evolved over the years.

“The SEMA Show and The BIG Show are about building meaningful connections; connecting jobbers and shops with the suppliers and manufacturers whose products they install on customers vehicles every day,” said de Vera. “SEMA is proud that this competition creates an opportunity for all builders at every level from multiple aspects of the business to be recognized for their creativity, skill and dedication. While this panel represents some of the industry's elite builders, their efforts in overcoming challenges on the path to accomplishing their goals will resonate with each attendee.”

Joining Jacobs and de Vera will be two-time Battle of the Builders champions Mike and Jim Ring of Ringbrothers, who captured the title at the 2022 SEMA Show with their one-of-a-kind ’48 Chevy Loadmaster Truck. Having also taken the overall prize in 2019, Ringbrothers also took top honors in the Off-Road and Truck category at last year’s Show with their custom K5 Blazer.

Representing the future of customization on the stage will be 2022 Battle of the Builders Young Guns winner and overall finalist Josh Michels. At just 22 years old, Michels rescued a ’66 Corvette from a field in Wisconsin and transformed the classic into a modern supercar to take top honors in his class in 2022. Rounding out the panel will be Russell Built Fabrications’ TJ Russell, who parlayed his expertise in vehicle development and customization along with his passion for off-road racing to take the class win in the Sport Compact, Luxury and Exotics division last year with his ’91 Porsche “Baja” 911.

“The SEMA Battle of the Builders is the greatest custom vehicle competition on the world’s largest automotive aftermarket stage,” said Keystone Automotive Operations Vice President Category Management & Marketing and a member of the SEMA Board of Directors Larry Montante. “Each of the individuals on this panel, representing multiple facets of vehicle building and customization has a unique story to share. We are looking forward to hearing their perspective on their motivation, how they approach their business and sharing with attendees how entering and winning a competition like Battle of the Builders can help attract customers by showcasing their talents with these high-profile builds.”

The SEMA Battle of the Builders Panel will be held on February 10, at 4:30 p.m., at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in the Aurora Ballroom for registered BIG Show attendees only. Show attendees will also have a chance to visit with the panelists throughout the event while viewing the Ringbrothers’ 2022 winning vehicles along with Greg Ward’s ’71 Toyota FJ40 Landcruiser—a Top 4 finalist in the 4-Wheel Drive & Off-Road category.

For more information about SEMA Battle of the Builders, visit www.semashow.com/botb. For more information about the Keystone BIG Show, click here.