By SEMA Editors

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

By Ashley Reyes

To keep businesses in the restylers/accessory market up-to-date on programs and events available to their companies, the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting a virtual general membership meeting, Tuesday, February 24, at 9:00 a.m. (PST).

General membership meetings are the ideal time to learn about what the council has planned for the year and get updated on programs available to help automotive restylers succeed in the marketplace. Participants will join members at large, connect with the select committee and tap into resources that address common challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket.

This is a can’t-miss event for those who want to expand their footprint in the restyling industry, as you’ll get to network, ask questions and learn how to maximize your PRO membership.

Click here for all the details and to RSVP so you don’t miss out.

  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.

Meyer Shank Racing’s Tom Blomqvist drove the pole-winning No. 60 Acura ARX-06 to a 4.190-second victory to win the Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) class win in the first race with hybrid-powered prototypes. It was the second consecutive and third overall Rolex 24 victory for the Meyer Shank team, which led a race-best 365 of the 783 laps, crossing the stripe 4.190 seconds ahead of Filipe Albuquerque in the No. 10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-06 from Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Autosport.

The Cadillac Racing Cadillac V-LMDh cars from Chip Ganassi Racing finished third (with driver Renger van der Zande in the No. 01) and fourth (Earl Bamber in the No. 02). The top four cars were separated by 11.176 seconds after 24 hours of racing on the 3.56-mile Daytona International Speedway road course.

Blomqvist shared the car in the race with Colin Braun, Helio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud, the latter duo also part of last year’s Rolex 24 triumph. Last weekend’s victory is Castroneves’ third straight in the iconic race, tying the late Peter Gregg for most consecutive overall victories in sports car racing’s renowned season opener.

The MSR No. 60 Acura led the final 97 laps despite having to repair the gearbox midrace and worrying whether it would indeed make it to the end. It marks the third straight Rolex 24 overall victory for Acura, which also won with the WTRAndretti team in 2021.

Nine hybrid prototypes made the debut of the GTP class in the race. All but one were still running at the finish, including the top six overall finishers, an impressive outing for a car making its first competitive showing in one of the longest, most grueling events on the schedule.

For complete results, click here.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Virginia House of Delegates approved SEMA-supported legislation (H.B. 1378) to repeal the law tying the state to California’s motor-vehicle emissions standards. Under current law, sales of new gas- and diesel-powered vehicles will be banned starting in 2035. The bill now awaits consideration in the Virginia State Senate.

SEMA does not believe that the government—Virginia’s or California’s—should be choosing winners and losers in the automotive market. Virginians should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families.

Click here to tell Virginia lawmakers to repeal the internal combustion engine ban.

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

By Ashley Reyes 

The automotive aftermarket continues to be impacted by shifts in the industry and overall economy. To stay competitive, businesses need to know where the market is headed.  

The new “SEMA Future Trends 2023” report, available now at www.sema.org/research, provides a detailed analysis of the industry’s most important issues and trends in 2023 and beyond. Designed to help aftermarket companies make informed business decisions, the report includes four main parts:  

Specialty-Equipment Industry Outlook

• Sales for specialty-equipment parts are projected to have slowed in 2022, growing only 2% to $51.75 billion. Barring any significant economic disruption, industry sales growth should normalize in 2023 and return to the 3%–4% growth seen during typical years.  

Vehicle Trends Outlook

• New-vehicle sales finished at 13.7 million units in 2022, roughly 1.2 million units below 2021 levels. Due to supply shortages, high prices and rising interest rates, it will likely take until 2025 before things return to pre-pandemic levels.
• The prices of new vehicles are exceptionally high, hitting a record $49,507 in December 2022. Prices should soften over the next year, as supply-chain issues ease and sales soften.

U.S. Economic Outlook

• Inflation hit record levels in 2022, but has peaked and is starting to lower. SEMA estimates that inflation will continue to go down in 2023. By the end of 2023, it should normalize back to around 2% per year. Similarly, costs for producers are expected to go down in 2023.  
• Unemployment in Q4 2022 hit 3.6%—its lowest level since the late ’60s. As the economy slows down in 2023, there will likely be an uptick in unemployment. It should improve again in 2024.

Supply-Chain Disruption

• Ninety percent of industry companies say they were moderately or severely impacted by supply-chain issues over the last year.  
• The chip shortage is ongoing, but lead times are improving. As of October 2022, the lead delivery time for a chip was 25.5 weeks—down from its peak. However, supplies of chips for automobiles remain tight and constrained.

The complete “SEMA Future Trends 2023” report is available to download for free at www.sema.org/research.

The report is the subject of the webinar “SEMA Future Trends: Outlook for 2023 and Beyond,” taking place February 2, at 11:00 a.m. (PST). Register for the webinar here.

MotorTrend Celebrates 75 Years of HOT ROD With Five-City Power Tour Event

MotorTrend Group has announced the 2023 HOT ROD Power Tour in celebration of HOT ROD’s 75th anniversary. The HOT ROD Power Tour Driven By Continental Tire will be heading south to Georgia, the Carolinas and Tennessee visiting five cities over five days in June. As America’s largest traveling car show, more than 6,000 cars and trucks of all years, makes and models will be on display for tens of thousands of automotive enthusiasts. The tour will feature more than 1,000 miles of driving, with high-octane events, such as drag racing, autocross and live entertainment.

2023 HOT ROD Power Tour Locations:

• Day 1: Monday, June 12 – Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton, Georgia
• Day 2: Tuesday, June 13 – South Carolina State Fairgrounds, Columbia, South Carolina
• Day 3: Wednesday, June 14 – Rockingham Speedway, Rockingham, North Carolina
• Day 4:  Thursday, June 15 – zMAX Dragway, Concord, North Carolina
• Day 5:  Friday, June 16 – Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, Tennessee

For information or to register for the 2023 HOT ROD Power Tour, visit hotrodpowertour.us.

RNR Tire Express Ranks 170th in Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500” 

RNR Tire Express was recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500.” The 2023 Franchise 500 ranks RNR at 170 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability and brand power.  

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchise industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur Editor-in-Chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”  

To view RNR Tire Express in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2023 issue of Entrepreneur, now available on newsstands. 

Meyer Distributing Announces Hurricane, Utah Location

Meyer Distributing Inc. has announced the addition of its Hurricane, Utah, crossdock. The cross-dock will have a direct feed from Meyer’s Kingman, Arizona, distribution hub, which houses one of the largest inventories of automotive accessories, crash parts, and RV parts in the region.  

“We are always looking at where we can improve delivery times and consistency,” said Alex Blackgrove, director of crossdock operations at Meyer. “The Hurricane dock will allow us to deliver daily to the fast-growing region of St. George as well as capture some additional rural markets in Utah.” 

Ford Brings All-New Mustang GT to Barrett-Jackson Auction Block

To aid the fight against diabetes, Ford is bringing the most powerful Mustang GT ever to Barrett-Jackson’s annual auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The all-new, seventh-generation ’24 Mustang GT with VIN 001 will be auctioned off on January 28, at 7:30 p.m. (MST). All sales proceeds will benefit JDRF—a leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization whose mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications.

“Ford has a long tradition of supporting charities through the Barrett-Jackson auction, and we’re proud to offer the all-new Mustang GT to support worthy causes like juvenile diabetes research,” said Mustang Marketing Manager Jim Owens. “This seventh generation is our most powerful Mustang GT yet, and the winning bidder will not only support a good cause but also become the owner of the first Mustang GT.”

This marks three generations of VIN 001 Mustang vehicles to be auctioned for charity at Barrett-Jackson, also joining the ranks of recent prized ponies like the Mustang Shelby GT500, Mustang Mach 1 and Mustang Bullitt.

The all-new ’24 Mustang GT features its most powerful 5.0L Coyote V8 ever—an engine that delivers up to 486 hp and 418 lb.-ft. of torque. It can be connected to a rev-matching six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic.

The winning bidder can choose from any standard Ford Mustang GT fastback option, including two transmission types, 11 exterior colors, an all-new lineup of alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 20 in. and Brembo brake calipers. They can also choose from available interior packages and the above-mentioned Performance Pack. For more information, visit the Barrett-Jackson website.

NASCAR Names New Senior Vice President of Competition, Promotions

NASCAR has announced Elton Sawyer has been named its senior vice president of Competition. Sawyer joined NASCAR in February 2015 as managing director of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Most recently, he held the role of NASCAR vice president, technical inspection and officiating, a role he assumed in 2016. Sawyer replaces Scott Miller, who will assume the newly formed role of competition strategist within the NASCAR Competition team after a more than 40-year career in motorsports.

NASCAR has also announced the promotions of several individuals to key positions within its competition leadership team: John Probst has been promoted to NASCAR chief racing development officer; Dr. Eric Jacuzzi has been promoted to NASCAR vice president, vehicle performance; Dr. John Patalak has been promoted to NASCAR vice president, safety engineering; and Brandon Thomas has been promoted to NASCAR vice president, vehicle design.

Ford F-150 Lightning Named Best of the Best in Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2023

Edmunds has named the Ford F-150 Lightning as the Best of the Best in Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2023. This follows the announcement last week that the Ford F-150 had won the Edmunds Top Rated Truck and the F-150 Lightning the Edmunds Top Rated Electric Truck awards.

Best of the Best is a new flagship award from Edmunds that recognizes the stand-out vehicle on sale today. Informed by Edmunds’ testing process, this award is given at the Edmunds editors’ discretion and considers the vehicle’s impact, innovation and relevance to car shoppers.

“[F-150 Lightning] embraces the advantages of electric technology to create a better truck for truckers,” said Edmunds Editor-in-Chief Alistair Weaver. “This isn’t a lifestyle toy; it’s a working tool in the best tradition of the F-150. The heart of America is in robust health.”

For more information on the F-150 Lightning please visit the Ford website.

WyoTech Announces Hall of Fame Program

WyoTech has announced the unveiling of its inaugural Hall of Fame program. This special recognition program will honor the most accomplished graduates of WyoTech, showcasing their achievements and contributions to the automotive industry. Hall of Fame inductees will be honored at a ceremony at the WyoTech Laramie campus on June 2, and will continue into June 3 in conjunction with the school’s annual car show.

The WyoTech Hall of Fame will feature inductees who have significantly impacted their fields, including successful business owners, industry innovators and standout technicians. These individuals will be chosen for their dedication to their craft and commitment to excellence, representing the best and brightest of WyoTech's alumni.

To be eligible for the WyoTech Hall of Fame, nominees must be a graduate of any WyoTech campus and be established in their career, with at least five years of work post-graduation. A total of six members will be inducted into the first Hall of Fame class, whose names will be announced in April 2023. Candidates can be nominated here.

Sunnen Acquires German Dealer Hommel Präzision

Sunnen Products Co. has acquired German distribution partner Hommel Präzision. The entire Hommel sales and technical team is now part of Sunnen and will continue to support its German customers with the current communication channels, including contact persons, remaining the same.

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.

By Ashley Reyes

Students preparing for careers in the automotive industry may qualify to receive up to $5,000 toward their college tuition through the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund.

A SEMA Scholarship can help you:

Jumpstart your career.

The SEMA Scholarship is unique in that it helps students who are pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. As a scholarship recipient, you will have the opportunity to attend the SEMA Show, where you can meet and network with professionals in the industry. The contacts you make during the Show are helpful as you continue to pursue a career in the industry.

Focus on your education.   

When you don’t have to worry about high tuition fees, you have more time to focus on your studies and furthering your education. Doing so will make your education and career goals easier to obtain.

Demonstrate accomplishments.

Scholarship winners can promote the accolade on their résumés. The SEMA name recognition helps your résumé stand out, giving you a tremendous advantage against other potential hires.

Reduce college expenses.

As with any scholarship, SEMA’s program reduces financial burden that often comes with higher education. Recipients receive anywhere from a $1,000–$5,000 awards, which can be applied to tuition, fees, books and supplies required for course work.

The application is now open and will run through March 1. Review the eligibility criteria and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/scholarships.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) named Garret’s Rod Shop as this week’s member spotlight company. Get to know their story in SEMA’s interview with company owner Garret Kitchen below.

SEMA: Tell us the story of your company.

Garret Kitchen: I founded Garret’s Rod Shop (GRS) in the late ’90s, but have been building hot rods since the age of 14. As a long-time skilled mechanic and fabricator, I turned my passion for creating works of art into a full-fledged business. With the support of my wife Vikki and family, Garret’s Rods Shop has now been building amazing cars for more than 25 years.

Currently, GRS employs a staff of 10 talented members; it takes a team to make it all happen. Our 20,000-sq.-ft. facility sits on our eight-acre campus, which means there is room to grow. The future looks grand for me and my crew.  

SEMA: What was your breakthrough moment?

GK: Garret’s Rod Shop prides on our ability to be flexible and diverse. We build everything from street rods to musclecars. There’s a passion to take the unusual and make it stand out in the crowd. One of our goals is to make each project timeless—a work of mechanical art that will last a lifetime.

SEMA: Tell us about your business now and the projects you are working on.

GK: Currently, we’re focused on several builds that are expected to be completed within the next couple of years. In addition to our build and repair departments, we are increasing our dyno tuning faculty in efforts to create a one-stop installation and tuning service center for hot rods and performance vehicles. EV is in our scope as well.  

SEMA: Tell us about a build you are proud of.

GK: We are very proud of our P33 Venom. It has been an example of the full GRS team working together to make, create and finish the project. With so many innovative parts and processes we used, it’s one car we can stand back and feel such a sense of accomplishment 

SEMA: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket?

GK: Find a skill in this trade that you see yourself doing everyday. Whether it’s mechanic or painting, eat, sleep and breathe it. One other word of advice is if you have a tough day, are tired or feel overwhelmed, and the next day you wake up and feel like doing it all over again, then you’ve have found what it is you love to do.  

Fill out an HRIA-member spotlight form to highlight how your company is contributing to the hot-rod industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on HRIA’s social media, SEMA News and future HRIA-member updates.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) members are invited to a virtual general membership meeting on March 2, at 10:00 a.m. (PST).

Open to employees of SEMA-member companies aged 39 and under, the meeting is the ideal time to get updated on events and resources provided by the network. Participants will connect with the select committee, meet other members from around the United States, and discover the benefits of applying to the FLN Professional Development Program (PDP), taking place May 11–12, at the SEMA Garage in Detroit.

The PDP is led by the renown Dale Carnegie Institute and is being offered to a limited number of FLN members at a significant discount. Find out how the program helps participants take their careers to the next level and why members of the first inaugural class say it’s just what they needed to develop themselves as professional leaders in the automotive aftermarket.

RSVP for the meeting now.