Jody Perewitz, the first woman to ever jockey an American V-Twin powered motorcycle into the record books at more than 200 mph, will join SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) members for a Facebook and Instagram live chat on February 2, at 12:00 p.m. (PST).
Perewitz has become one of the most recognizable women in the motorcycle industry today and holds 16 land-speed records, one of which is a world record. During this chat, SBN members will have the exclusive opportunity to ask about her career accomplishments, her viewpoint on being a successful woman in a male-dominated industry and challenges she’s overcome.
Perewitz’s additional career achievements include being one of only three women to complete all the miles in the Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Race, completing all the miles from the upper peninsula of Michigan to Key West, Florida, in the 2019 Motorcycle Chase, taking home a win at New Smyrna Speedway in 2018 and being the youngest member to be inducted into the 2020 Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Daniel Ciganovich is the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) newest spotlight volunteer.
Ciganovich is the president of Innovative Dealer Alliance. In his Q&A with SEMA, Ciganovich shares how he was introduced to the restyling industry, and what led him to starting his own company in the same market segment.
SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling/manufacturing?
Daniel Ciganovich: I have always been interested in automotive from an early age, from the time I built my first custom Cal-Bug in High School. I eventually started working for a regional tire and wheel retailer when an opportunity presented itself to work for a well-known restyler who operated in 11 western states. The position I took was to sell and install aftermarket accessories as a dealership in-house accessory manager. I never felt so motivated and happy selling cool accessory upgrades in the dealership environment, for me it was the perfect match!
SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO? How has it or will it impact you?
DC: After 13 years managing one of the largest restyling businesses that spanned both the United States and Canada, I felt it was time for a change. I started my own company to help other restylers grow their businesses, and joined PRO to share my experience with other like-minded business owners, as well expand my knowledge from others.
SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?
DC: Work is work, and you are going to have to work hard to be successful. There will be great days and bad days no matter what industry you are in, so you might as well be a part of something you are passionate about.
SEMA: What is your dream vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?
DC: A Porsche 911 carving the canyons here in Southern California. For now, I am happy cruising PCH in my ’67 Bug, or heading out to the desert to watch King of the Hammers or The Baja 1000 in my lifted F-150.
SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?
DC: Don’t confuse effort with results.
SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?
DC: I love all aspects of the automotive industry, and for now, my company keeps me well connected to the restyling business. At this stage of my life, I just can’t ever see a time when I will not be a part of this exciting and dynamic industry.
Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO’s social media, SEMA eNews and future PRO-member updates.
This is the upcoming ’24 Ford Mustang GT undergoing testing, providing some key details about the S650-generation pony.
The prototype is draped in heavy camo, and even wears some fake padding above the rear window. Even so, we can still make out a few key items about this model, including the fact that the pony will keep the same general dimensions, long hood, short trunk and stout nose aesthetic of the current model.
The black wheels are very similar to a set of units offered by the current Mustang GT, and the rear end features a set of quad exhaust tips. However, since this model is wearing EPA exhaust tips, the quad exhaust tips are collected into a dual-exhaust setup for the sake of testing.
The interior is draped in camo, but we can clearly see the steering wheel from the current S550 model with the Bullitt logo. Like the exterior wheels, this steering wheel is likely a parts bin item that is used for testing purposes until the production-intent wheel is ready.
The S650 Mustang is set for a ’24 model-year launch, one model year later than originally anticipated, and is expected to be an evolution of the current S550 model.
This is the upcoming ’24 Ford Mustang GT undergoing testing, providing some key details about the S650-generation pony.
The prototype is draped in heavy camo, and even wears some fake padding above the rear window. Even so, we can still make out a few key items about this model, including the fact that the pony will keep the same general dimensions, long hood, short trunk and stout nose aesthetic of the current model.
The black wheels are very similar to a set of units offered by the current Mustang GT, and the rear end features a set of quad exhaust tips. However, since this model is wearing EPA exhaust tips, the quad exhaust tips are collected into a dual-exhaust setup for the sake of testing.
The interior is draped in camo, but we can clearly see the steering wheel from the current S550 model with the Bullitt logo. Like the exterior wheels, this steering wheel is likely a parts bin item that is used for testing purposes until the production-intent wheel is ready.
The S650 Mustang is set for a ’24 model-year launch, one model year later than originally anticipated, and is expected to be an evolution of the current S550 model.
As industry requirements for emissions compliance evolve, manufacturers will need to prepare and adapt to new testing procedures. Stephen Ruiz, ACS, Automotive Consulting Services, will share firsthand experience on emissions calibration and compliance during a webinar on Tuesday, February 15, at 1:00 p.m. (PST).
Participants will learn practical experience about how to go through the process of emissions calibration and compliance as they learn from Ruiz’s extensive experience with powertrain calibration for internal combustion engines and transmissions to meet specific engineering requirements.
Register here to join the webinar, “A Practical Approach to Emissions Calibration and Compliance.”
Members of the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) and SEMA Businesswoman’s Network (SBN) are invited to a cross-council mixer on Thursday, February 3, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. at King of the Hammers.
Participants will get updated on resources and volunteer opportunities available in the industry, watch the short-course race and learn about land use and stewardship from the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA).
The event is located inside the VIP tent and will provide the ideal opportunity for attendees to meet new contacts and strengthen existing connections. Participants will get updated on resources and volunteer opportunities available in the industry, watch the short-course race and learn about land use and stewardship from the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA).
King of the Hammers attendees who are not current TORA, ETTN or SBN members but are interested in getting more involved are invited to attend, as it is a great way to introduce yourself and learn about what SEMA Councils and Networks have to offer.
Registration is required if not already attending King of the Hammers and are attending the mixer only. Drinks and light refreshments will be provided.
The 2022 SEMA Scholarship application period for students preparing for careers in the automotive or performance parts industries is now open and will run through March 1, 2022.
What does winning a SEMA Scholarship mean? Watch the video below to hear firsthand from recent recipients Jennifer Allen, Almon Evans, Zach Griggs and Stephen Redlack.
The SEMA Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness program represents more than just financial aid; it is amongst the best opportunities for students who have a passion for automobiles and are pursuing careers in the automotive industry.
Scholarship winners have access to resources through SEMA Education and the SEMA Career Center, and in-person networking opportunities at the SEMA Show. Industry professionals who have children, friends or know someone who may qualify are encouraged to share this opportunity with them.
Interested applicants can review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/scholarships.
Influencer Sana Dadabhoy (@Ladyzla_) was invited to join Toyota at the SEMA Garage for a ’22 GR86 measuring session. With complete access to the new GR86 in both standard and premium trim levels, Dadabhoy joined members as they explored this exciting new platform. SEMA Mechanical Engineer Luis Morales also provided a hands-on demonstration of how SEMA members can utilize Garage services to get a jumpstart on R&D.
According to the OEM, “With two grades and a choice of manual or automatic transmission, the ’22 GR86 is ready to thrill at every turn.” In support of that claim, Toyota boasts that the powerplant on the GR86 boasts 228hp, up from 205 and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, up from 156 and peak torque arrives far earlier in the powerband at 3,700 RPM, versus 6,600 RPM.
To learn more about the Toyota GR86, visit www.toyota.com/gr86. If you have questions about the recent measuring session, or want to join fellow SEMA members for the next event visit www.semagarage.com.
SEMA Wheel and Tire Council (WC) members are invited to join the council’s first-ever Virtual Happy Hour on Wednesday, February 2, at 4:00 p.m. (PST).
The event will connect wheel and tire professionals from throughout the United States and offer them a chance to learn how one key player in modern marketing advanced bringing custom wheels to the aftermarket. Participants will hear from special guest Brad Fanshaw, who revolutionized the go-to marketing strategy for custom wheels as the president and COO of Boyds Wheels and Hot Rods by Boyd, as he discusses:
The role of cross promotion and endorsements in growing a wheel brand.
Tips on staying relevant in a changing marketplace.
Integrating media with your core business.
Getting started in wheels after coming from a completely different industry (action sports).
Innovating field marketing for aftermarket wheels while running Boyds.
Attendees will then compete in a fun trivia challenge for a chance to win bragging rights and prizes!
PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer Among Inaugural Drag Illustrated Awards Nominees
Drag Illustrated, the drag-racing magazine and content producer, has announced the nominees for the inaugural Drag Illustrated Awards. PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer has been nominated in the “Special Award for Ambassadors to the Sport of Drag Racing” category for PRI’s advocacy and membership efforts to support the sport of drag racing. He appears alongside Brian Lohnes, Clay Millican, Ron Capps and Jim Hughes.
Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings champion Ryan Martin, NHRA Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson, PDRA Pro Boost driver and tuner Todd Tutterow, NHRA Top Fuel world champion Steve Torrence, and NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion Matt Smith were nominated for the Racer of the Year.
“Our editorial team spent a lot of time narrowing down these categories and choosing the most deserving nominees,” said Wes Buck, founder, and editorial director, Drag Illustrated. “We tried to cover as many bases as possible by highlighting the people, places, and experiences that made 2021 such an incredible year for the sport of drag racing.”
A selection committee will determine the winners, which will be announced during Drag Illustrated’s DI Awards Show live streamed on Thursday, February 3, at 6:30 p.m. (CST) on its Facebook and YouTube pages. The winners will also be featured in the new Racer of the Year Issue launching in early February. For more information, visit dragillustrated.com.
BOOST Products USA Announces Pricing Updates for 2022
BOOST Products USA has experienced many changes throughout its supply chain, most notably, an increase in the cost of raw materials and shipping and logistics. Despite these changes, the company has been able to keep its prices the same, or at worst, up to 15%. All price updates are effective January 1, and have been updated throughout the SEMA Data channels. The company has also implemented steps to ensure even higher-quality product data available through SEMA Data, including more robust descriptions and product images. For more information, contact Tim Trampedach at tim@boostproductsusa.com.
Horizon Brands’ ‘PROJECT X’ Off-Road Solutions Organization Announces New Leadership
PROJECT X, a new innovator in the off-road lighting solutions space, has announced the promotion of Jared Chavez to director of brand development and the addition of two industry veterans, Matt Moghaddam and Shawn Bell, to the marketing and sales leadership teams.
Jared Chavez
Chavez, a 16-year industry veteran, spent the last two years leading the charge on developing the TYPE S brand (a division of Horizon Brands) through events, sponsorships, product development and relationship building. Chavez’s new role signifies Horizon’s investment in the future of the off-road industry.
Matt Moghaddam
Moghaddam brings years of industry marketing experience, working for brands including MagnaFlow, Nitto Driving Line and Automotive Performance Group (APG) Offroad. His expertise in content development, event activation and marketing strategy will be crucial to the high-growth expectations of the PROJECT X brand.
Shawn Bell
Leading the sales charge for PROJECT X is Bell, who has spent more than a decade in the aftermarket automotive industry, as both a salesman and an enthusiast. His wealth of experience, relationships and enthusiasm for the off-road industry help round out the 2022 Q1 PROJECT X leadership team.
The Jessi Combs Foundation Announces 2022 Partnership With Warn Industries
The Jessi Combs Foundation (JCF) has announced its first corporate partnership with Warn Industries—one of Combs’ longest running partners. Warn, in addition to making a direct financial commitment to help grow the JCF Scholarship program, is also contributing significant logistical and in-kind resources to The Jessi Combs Foundation for 2022. In total, $70,000 worth of scholarships have been awarded to 14 women since the foundation’s inception in 2019, and with Warn’s support, the JCF hopes to make greater contributions in 2022.
Warn, in addition to making a direct financial commitment to help grow the JCF Scholarship program, is also contributing significant logistical and in-kind resources to The Jessi Combs Foundation for 2022.
“To have Warn commit to support the JCF is an absolute win for all and we know Jessi is smiling down, giddy with joy” said Kelly Combs, Jessi’s brother and JCF Board member. “Warn was one of Jessi’s biggest and longest-running partners, and as they did with her, they have quietly stood behind us since day one. We’re thrilled to have them on board as our first official corporate sponsor!”
“The Warn team is proud to support the Jessi Combs Foundation. Working closely with Jessi for a number of years, she had a profound effect on many members of our team. We believe in the work the foundation is doing and are honored to be part of it” said Jake Petersen, Warn’s vice president of product and marketing.
The mission of The Jessi Combs Foundation is to Educate, Inspire and Empower the next generation of trailblazing and stereotype-breaking women. A guiding principle to this mission is a simple question “What Would Jessi Do?”
Eric Ammerman
Quadratec Appoints Director of Content to Lead New Creative Department
Quadratec Inc. promoted Eric Ammerman to director of creative content, effective immediately. Ammerman will oversee Quadratec’s print catalog, as well as its digital product pages, YouTube channel and Torque editorial section.
Ammerman recently celebrated his 10-year anniversary at Quadratec and formerly helmed the company’s video department and YouTube channel. Additionally, he headed Quadratec’s YJL project vehicle build that was a ‘Battle of the Builders’ nominee at the 2021 SEMA show. He will be responsible for designing, framing and driving Quadratec’s creative efforts to ensure a consistent end-to-end brand experience on the company’s digital and print platforms.
BorgWarner Invests in Battery Management Software Company
BorgWarner has announced its investment in Qnovo, a privately held, Silicon Valley-based software and controls company.
“With Qnovo’s focus on battery health measurement and fast charging, the investment deepens BorgWarner’s capacity to further its battery solutions portfolio,” a company release said.
“BorgWarner sees a great opportunity with our strategic investment to collaborate with Qnovo, allowing us to leverage its advanced battery management software in our electrification portfolio,” said Harry Husted, chief technology officer of BorgWarner. “We look forward to partnering with Qnovo as they enter the automotive industry to provide battery solutions to the electric vehicle market.”
BorgWarner is the lead investor for Qnovo’s multi-million-dollar, Series-C capital raise.
ProMedia Launches Three New Websites for NMRA, NMCA and Race Pages
ProMedia Events & Publishing has introduced three new websites for the NMRA Ford Nationals (www.NMRAdigital.com), NMCA Muscle Car Nationals (www.NMCAdigital.com), and its drag racing/street performance media property, Race Pages Magazine (www.RacePagesDigital.com). ProMedia worked with renowned website and advertising agency Admark to develop the new websites.
“We’re constantly working on improving the customer experience with all of our brands from our live events to their experiences in the digital space. By upgrading our websites we’re focusing on bringing NMRA and NMCA events to an even higher level of exposure, making it easier for racers and fans to find information and relevant news about our events, and give our sponsors and advertisers the best digital package,” said Steve Wolcott, ProMedia’s founder and CEO. “For more than 20 years, our company’s digital strategy has always included strong websites featuring compelling content and valuable event information. We think you’ll you be impressed as we continue to push harder into the latest design, improving the customer experience even more.”
The three brands—NMRAdigital, NMCAdigital and Race Pages—reach hundreds of thousands of unique visitors yearly through exclusive content including news, features, videos and the latest racing/performance technology. The NMRAdigital and NMCAdigital sites serve as the official landing pages for national events and include all information a racer or fan needs from special features to daily schedules, rules, payouts/contingency, directions and ticketing information. The event coverage includes daily news from each stop on tour, photo galleries and complete qualifying and elimination results.
Bonnier Corp. Hires Olsewski to Fuel Motorsports Media
Bonnier Corp. has hired Steven Olsewski as the editorial lead for its motorsports brands. Olsewski, who has a long history of content creation within the market, will oversee editorial-content creation as Bonnier expands its offerings within key motorsports segments. He previously served as editor of Power Automedia’s leading brands, Off Road Xtreme and Diesel Army, and more recently was the driving force behind Off-Road Assassin.
Beginning with Off-Road Expo and Sand Sports Super Show, Olsewski will develop the editorial plans for motorsports content, work to develop content partnerships with key stakeholders, build out new editorial offerings, and leverage Bonnier’s market-leading events as year-round content engines.
Lamborghini Appoints Maurizio Reggiani as Vice President of Motorsports
Maurizio Reggiani. Photo courtesy: Lamborghini
Lamborghini has announced Maurizio Reggiani as vice president of motorsports. Reggiani will be responsible for the strategic direction of Lamborghini’s entire motorsports division, which secured victories in GT championships in recent years. Lamborghini has also appointed Rouven Mohr as the chief technical officer.
SRX Announces Don Hawk as CEO
Longtime Speedway Motorsports executive Don Hawk has been announced as the new CEO for the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX), the racing series launched by three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart and fellow NASCAR Hall of Famer Ray Evernham in 2021. In his new role, Hawk will be responsible for the strategy, operations and business development, including media, sales and marketing, personnel, track relationships, rules, safety, international expansion and more, as reported by AP News. Hawk began his tenure with Speedway Motorsports in 2007 and held positions including chief racing development officer and vice president of business affairs. Prior, he served as a consultant and director of regional racing development for NASCAR.
SRX hosted six events televised on CBS in 2021 and included visits to Stafford Motor Speedway (Stafford, Connecticut), Knoxville Raceway (Knoxville, Iowa), Eldora Speedway (Rossburg, Ohio), Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park (Brownsburg, Indiana), Slinger Speedway (Slinger, Wisconsin), and Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (Nashville, Tennessee). The 2022 SRX schedule has yet to be announced. For more information, visit srxracing.com.
NPW Miami Acquires Jim’s Auto Parts of Ft. Lauderdale
NPW continues to expand with their acquisition of Jim’s Auto Parts. Jim’s, owned by Jim Arpin has been in business since 1962 and is the last of the Broward Group of stores that is now under NPW management. The Broward Group was the largest independent group of auto parts stores in South Florida. Jim’s Auto will continue to fly the Bumper to Bumper banner.
Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.
Jody Perewitz, the first woman to ever jockey an American V-Twin powered motorcycle into the record books at more than 200 mph, will join SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) members for a Facebook and Instagram live chat on February 2, at 12:00 p.m. (PST). 
As industry requirements for emissions compliance evolve, manufacturers will need to prepare and adapt to new testing procedures. Stephen Ruiz, ACS, Automotive Consulting Services, will share firsthand experience on emissions calibration and compliance during a webinar on Tuesday, February 15, at 1:00 p.m. (PST).
PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer Among Inaugural Drag Illustrated Awards Nominees
BOOST Products USA Announces Pricing Updates for 2022
