By SEMA News Editors

Lucas Oil Announces Additions to Executive Team

Joel Feldman and Brandon Greene

Lucas Oil Products has announced two appointments to its executive and leadership teams, hiring Joel Feldman as vice president of product development and promoting Brandon Greene to vice president of customer solutions.

Feldman will lead the creation and development of new products, overseeing all phases from conception to manufacturing. His responsibilities include defining long-range strategies, enhancing product development processes and maintaining up-to-date industry knowledge to guide product engineering and manufacturing decisions.

Greene will lead efforts to improve order processing and fulfillment, implementing new technology to enhance customer interactions and expedite shipping. He will also use customer feedback to help drive new product development and expand product diversity.

For more information, visit lucasoil.com.

Wharton Automotive Group Launches FTI Performance Parts

Wharton Automotive Group, the parent company of McLeod Racing, FTI Converters and Silver Sport Transmissions, has launched a new brand, FTI Performance Parts.

The new company, based near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, will offer performance torque converter and automatic transmission parts. Greg Samuel, founder of FTI Converters, and Ken Kelly Jr. will manage operations.

Available components will include complete billet torque converter kits, billet stator assemblies, bolt-together and lock-up kits, as well as transmission components such as billet transbrake valve bodies, billet drums, billet shafts, complete aftermarket pump assemblies, SFI-approved cases and bell housings.

The company's website will launch on January 1, 2024.

Hoonigan Appoints New President

Hoonigan has appointed Vance Johnston as president and COO of the company. In his new role, Johnston will manage all aspects of Hoonigan's operations.

Johnston replaces co-founder and former CEO Randy White, who announced his retirement after almost 30 years with the company. White will continue to serve on the board of directors and be closely involved in the transition as an advisor, company representatives said.

Prior to joining Hoonigan, Johnston served in various executive roles leading strategic planning, finance and operations, most recently as CFO of Parts Authority, a national auto parts distributor.

For more information, visit hoonigan.com.

Standard Drivetrain Acquires Precision Industries

Standard Drivetrain has acquired Precision Industries, a torque converter supplier based in Whiteville, Tennessee.

Founded by Terry Hedrick, Precision Industries is recognized for developing a multi-clutch performance torque converter and a one-piece billet back cover, the company said, and offers a full lineup of driveline products.

Standard Drivetrain, incorporated in Wilmington, Delaware, is led by Rob Boninfante and Chris Miller, and is associated with Jase Composites, Pure Drivetrain Solutions, Chris Miller Racing Productions, Sterling Auto Group, Boninfante Friction, ProTorque, Ultra Lite Brakes, BMF Engineering and Kenny's Diesel and Pullin'.

For more information, visit standarddrivetrain.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is hosting an online General Membership Meeting on Thursday, December 14, 10:00 a.m. PST/1:00 p.m. EST. 

Open to aftermarket professionals aged 39 and under, the meeting will be the ideal time to hear about FLN's current priorities for members, which include upcoming events, member resources and its 2024 professional development program. Attendees will connect with the select committee, discover volunteer opportunities and learn about the network's events at the 2023 SEMA and PRI Shows.

All current and prospective members are encouraged to attend, as it's a great way to tap into resources to enhance one's career and business.

Register here. 

By SEMA News Editors

Lucid Group has announced that all Lucid vehicles built with the current Combined Charging System (CCS) will be able to charge at stations in the Tesla Supercharger network by using an adapter in 2025.

In addition, Lucid will integrate the North American Charging Standard (NACS) into future vehicles in 2025.

“Adopting NACS is an important next step to providing our customers with expanded access to reliable and convenient charging solutions for their Lucid vehicles,” said Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO at Lucid. “We believe that a unified charging standard, backed by the nationwide rollout of future-ready higher-voltage charging stations, will be a critical step in empowering American consumers to adopt electric vehicles.”

For more information, visit lucidmotors.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Chevrolet Performance Extends NMCA Sponsorship

A longtime supporter of the NMCA Muscle Car Nationals, Chevrolet Performance has confirmed its commitment to grassroots competition by signing a new three-year deal, continuing as a major sponsor with the national event series. 

In addition to its presenting sponsorship of NMCA through 2026, Chevrolet Performance continues as the presenting sponsor of several core classes, including LME Street King, Proform Rumble and the all-new Scoggin Dickey Street Warrior 10.10.

Chevrolet Performance also retains its position as title sponsor of the COPO Camaro Shootout in Norwalk, Ohio, the LSX Shootout in Madison, Illinois, and the presenting sponsor of the NMCA World Finals in Indianapolis. Additionally, Chevrolet continues as the "Official Truck" and "Official Tow Vehicle" of the NMCA Muscle Car Nationals.

For more information, visit NMCAdigital.com and Chevrolet.com/performance-parts.

FIA Selects Hoosier Tire for World Rallycross Championship

The FIA has named Hoosier Tire, based in Plymouth, Indiana, as its exclusive tire supplier for the FIA World and European Rallycross Championship.

Hoosier and the FIA have entered into a three-year agreement. The deal extends from 2024 to 2026.

"This is the right step forward for us to continue the growth of our brand internationally," said Joerg Burfien, president and CEO of Hoosier Racing Tire. "It is a great opportunity allowing us to showcase our product performance."

For more information, visit hoosiertire.com.

Tony Stewart to Drive in NHRA Top Fuel Category in 2024

Leah Pruett, driver of the Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Dodge NHRA Top Fuel dragster, is stepping aside from racing in 2024 to focus on starting a family with husband Tony Stewart.

Stewart will make his Top Fuel debut in 2024 on behalf of Pruett at TSR when the NHRA opens the year in March with the NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway.

Stewart, who has earned 13 championships across NASCAR, IndyCar and USAC, along with hundreds of victories on oval tracks, dirt tracks and road courses, finished second in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series sportsman ranks in 2023, earning four victories in his first full year of drag racing.

For more information, visit nhra.com.

Formula E Expands Girls on Track Initiative for 2024 

Formula E is expanding the FIA Girls on Track program at Formula E races in 2024.

The program for girls aged 12 to 18 will extend to all 11 race weekends in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in 2024, up from five race weekends in earlier seasons. More than 1,650 girls will take part in the program over the course of the season.

The program includes leading female figures from a range of professions across the Formula E paddock delivering inspirational and educational workshops.

Other highlights include immersive work experiences during race week, participation in the podium celebration and more.

For more information, visit FIAFormulaE.com.

For additional racing news, visit the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) website. 

SEMA News sources recently photographed a Rolls-Royce Cullinan prototype near BMW’s Munich, Germany, research and development center.

Plastic cladding obscured updates to the front fascia.

Five years after its official debut, the apparent prototype signals a mid-cycle facelift for the SUVs.

While the Cullinan prototype is hiding modifications to the front fascia, an undisguised new bumper with prominent exhaust tips is exposed at the rear. Although the changes underneath the gray plastic cladding remain unknown, the front bumper appears to have taller air intakes on both sides of the center section below the registration plate.

The prototype included an updated rear bumper with exposed exhaust tips.

Other features, like the side panels and greenhouse, remain unchanged, but insiders are predicting new upholstery, updated tech features and modifications to the engine and auto gearboxes.

Expect an official debut in 2024.

By SEMA News Editors

Audi and Porsche are sharing development of a new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, and one of the first Audi models to use the new underpinnings will be the Q6 e-Tron SUV and its Sportback variant. SEMA News sources recently photographed prototypes of both testing in Germany.

Confirmed for launch in 2024, the SUV and Sportback variants will sit between the Q4 e-Tron, which uses the VW Group's MEB platform, and the full-sized e-Tron flagship, which is based on a modified version of the MLB SUV architecture. Both Q6 e-Tron variants will be built in Ingolstadt, Germany, where Audi is also building a new battery production facility to serve its expanding EV lineup, according to industry sources.

The Q6 e-Tron will be one of the first Audi models built on the PPE platform developed with Porsche.

The Q6s will serve as sister cars to the expected electric version of the Porsche Macan, according to insiders, with the Porsche expected to arrive several months before the Audi Q6 e-Tron SUV.

The PPE architecture, based on the J1 platform used for the Taycan and e-Tron GT, is designed for full-sized luxury models, both in low-slung and SUV forms.

The prototypes suggest heavy influence from the full-sized e-Tron, with the Q6 SUV and Sportback adopting a cab-backward silhouette, a gently sloping roof line and bulky rear arches.

The Q6 will also be available as the e-Tron Sportback.

Both Q6 e-Tron will have a performance focus than the current combustion car, sources said. The most powerful variants, likely badged as RS models in line with Audi's plan to electrify its performance division, should send around 590 hp to both axles, a departure for the standard rear-mounted electric motor.

The PPE platform also has 800-volt charging functionality built in, which means the Macan EV and Q6 E-Trons will be able to charge at speeds of up to 350 kW. The expected range is in excess of 315 miles, those with information on the prototype said. The Q6 e-Tron is also expected to offer inbuilt torque-vectoring and rear-axle steering functionality on some models.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News highlights new products from industry companies when available. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

DSR Performance

GEN III Crate Engine Line

DSR Performance, the performance aftermarket division of Don Schumacher Racing, introduced its latest series of Schumacher Crate Engines.

The new line, unveiled at the PRI Show, includes the Schumacher SC, a supercharged 426ci GEN III crate engine, and the Schumacher LB, a 426ci GEN III long-block. The Schumacher SC is expected to produce between 1,200 and 1,300 hp, the company said.

For more information, visit dsrperformance.com.

Hot Shot’s Secret

Adrenaline Racing Top Lube

Hot Shot’s Secret recently announced the launch of its Adrenaline Racing Top Lube (RTL), the latest addition to its Adrenaline racing line.

The lubricating additive completely blends with all race fuels, according to the company, and reduces wear on valves and valve seats and provides protection for pistons, rings and cylinders.

For more information, visit hotshotsecret.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

The Wheel Group

International Sales Director (Remote)

The Wheel Group, a designer, manufacturer and distributor of branded automotive aftermarket products, is searching for a director of international sales to manage all aspects of international sales strategy and operations. The primary objective of this position is to expand the company's global market presence, drive profitable revenue growth and achieve sales and margin targets in international markets outside the United States and Canada.

The Edelbrock Group

Product Development Engineer in Olive Branch, Mississippi

The ideal candidate will be an experienced mechanical engineer with a demonstrated ability utilizing 3D CAD software. In this role, the product development engineer will design castings, machined parts, engine components and complex assemblies to meet performance and manufacturing requirements.

Whipple Superchargers

Sales and Support Specialist in Fresno, California

Whipple Superchargers is seeking a customer support specialist for its Fresno, California-based team. This role encompasses various responsibilities, with a focus on sales and customer service.

BluePrint Engines

Design Engineering Manager in Kearney, Nebraska

BluePrint and Origin Engines is looking for a design engineering manager to oversee its design engineering team. The selected candidate will lead work on engineering systems and processes, design reviews, new component designs and more.  

By SEMA News Editors

Velocity Capital Management Acquires Parella Motorsports Holdings

Velocity Capital Management, a New York-based private equity firm specializing in sports, media and entertainment, has acquired Parella Motorsports Holdings, the owner and operator of the SpeedTour event series.

The SpeedTour includes on-track action from the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association, the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli, Prototype Sprint Series Association presented by Hankook, Formula Regional Americas Championship and Formula 4 United States Championship. The organization is also launching the TA2 Club class, a feeder series for the Trans Am TA2 Series, and the Ligier JS F4 Series for first generation Ligier JS F4 chassis.

For more information, visit speedtour.net.

Goodyear Names Joe Burke Vice President of North America Commercial Business

The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company has named Joe Burke as vice president of its North America commercial business. He will report to Steve McClellan, president, Goodyear Americas.

Burke succeeds Dave Beasley, who will retire after nearly 40 years with Goodyear.

Burke joined Goodyear in 2015 and most recently served as the general manager of Goodyear’s global aviation business.

For more information, visit goodyear.com.

Hennessey Special Vehicles Hires David Donohue for Venom F5 Track Development

Hennessey Special Vehicles, the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer, has hired David Donohue for advanced track development of its Venom F5 hypercar.

Donohue is a 24 Hours of Le Mans champion, Rolex 24 at Daytona overall winner and Pikes Peak International Hill Climb record holder.

For more information, visit hennesseyspecialvehicles.com.

EnerSys Included on List of Most Responsible Companies

EnerSys, the parent company of ODYSSEY Battery, was named to Newsweek's 2024 list of America's Most Responsible Companies 2024. EnerSys was ranked 352 out of 500 companies on the list.

EnerSys, along with other esteemed recipients, underwent an evaluation of corporate responsibility by Newsweek, considering three areas: environmental, social and governance. Publicly available key performance indicators covering corporate social responsibility (CSR) topics were researched for the ranking and a public survey was conducted to gage companies’ CSR reputations, according to the publication.

For more information, visit enersys.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) has released a new video highlighting the product development process, specifically on prototyping tools and new technology.

The video features Heath Moore, managing director of Harrop Engineering, and includes an insightful discussion on new technologies that have enabled faster product development, including what tools are must-haves for the development of new products.

Watch now and gain insight into: 

• How to overcome product development obstacles. 
• What tools are being used for reverse engineering.
• New technologies that have changed the product development landscape.
• How metal 3D printing changes the industry.
• New software that was not available several years ago.

The information shared will help SEMA members learn about new technologies and methods to reduce cost and improve development time. After watching, go to the ETTN Facebook page and join the conversation in the video comments.