By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Whether it's protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, combating vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice or protecting motorized access to federal government lands, there are many issues facing SEMA members in the nation's capital. With the 2024 presidential election heating up and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry!

Mark your calendars now to join fellow SEMA members in Washington, D.C., on May 8-9, for the 2024 SEMA Washington Rally.

During the Rally, you will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with your United States senators, representatives and key congressional aides to discuss the issues that matter most to your business and the industry.

Registration will officially open later this spring. There is never any cost to participate.

To register or for more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Maine voters have overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure requiring automakers to standardize vehicle onboard diagnostic systems and make them remotely accessible to owners and independent repair shops. The initiative, which will go into effect in 2024, requires automakers producing vehicles that include a telematics system to offer an owner-authorized access platform so that owners can access their vehicle's mechanical data through a mobile app. The measure also requires vehicle manufacturers to give vehicle owners and independent repair shops the same access to diagnostic tools that they provide to their authorized dealers and service centers.

The measure, which passed with support from 84% of voters, is part of a larger national movement to ensure that consumers and independent repair shops have the right to repair their vehicles. SEMA and our coalition partners are advocating for Congress to pass H.R. 906, the "Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act," a bipartisan bill that would ensure automotive enthusiasts, aftermarket parts manufacturers and repair shops have access to the information and tools needed to maintain and personalize vehicles as automotive technology evolves. The U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce recently passed the REPAIR Act, which is now eligible for consideration by the Energy & Commerce Committee. 

SEMA is advocating for the REPAIR Act to be expanded to ensure it protects the right to modify motor vehicles. More details can be found at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair. 

Click here to send a letter to your U.S. Representative asking them to support and expand the REPAIR Act to protect our right to modify vehicles. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org or visit sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Maine voters have overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure requiring automakers to standardize vehicle onboard diagnostic systems and make them remotely accessible to owners and independent repair shops. The initiative, which will go into effect in 2024, requires automakers producing vehicles that include a telematics system to offer an owner-authorized access platform so that owners can access their vehicle's mechanical data through a mobile app. The measure also requires vehicle manufacturers to give vehicle owners and independent repair shops the same access to diagnostic tools that they provide to their authorized dealers and service centers.

The measure, which passed with support from 84% of voters, is part of a larger national movement to ensure that consumers and independent repair shops have the right to repair their vehicles. SEMA and our coalition partners are advocating for Congress to pass H.R. 906, the "Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act," a bipartisan bill that would ensure automotive enthusiasts, aftermarket parts manufacturers and repair shops have access to the information and tools needed to maintain and personalize vehicles as automotive technology evolves. The U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce recently passed the REPAIR Act, which is now eligible for consideration by the Energy & Commerce Committee. 

SEMA is advocating for the REPAIR Act to be expanded to ensure it protects the right to modify motor vehicles. More details can be found at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair. 

Click here to send a letter to your U.S. Representative asking them to support and expand the REPAIR Act to protect our right to modify vehicles. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org or visit sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair. 

The following message is from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

Dear SEMA Member: 

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors. 

 The following seats are open for the 2024 election:

• Manufacturer (two open seats)
• Distributor/Retailer (two open seats)
• Service (one open seat)

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, please include brief information about the nominee's qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

EDITOR'S UPDATE: Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are now closed.

We urge you to take part in the nomination process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the nominating committee.

Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO  

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 Ashley Reyes

The automotive aftermarket industry has seen growth across many different vehicle segments over the past year, with pickups continuing to dominate sales and showcasing strong growth across the industry, according to the new "SEMA State of the Industry-Fall 2023 Report."

Out of the total number of manufacturers that sell to the pickup segment, more than three-quarters of them report stable or growing sales over the past 12 months. Strong sales are also highlighted among retailers and installers, with more than three-quarters of companies reporting that their sales have increased or stayed the same during the past year.  

"In addition to pickups, we also found that SUVs, classics and sports cars are strong drivers for the market," said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. "Over 50% of manufacturers and retailers/installers sell to those segments. Companies also see opportunity across a number of traditional and emerging sectors--including hot rodding, overlanding and muscle cars--moving forward."  

The data is from the new report's "Vehicle Segment Insights" chapter, which focuses on changes in vehicle segment sales over the past 12 months, as well as segments that the industry views as having the most opportunity, plus segments that manufacturers and retailers and installers currently sell to. 

"The report is a must-download for any aftermarket company that wants to understand the current state of the automotive specialty equipment industry," added Knapp. "No other report provides such detailed data on industry trends and metrics, challenges and opportunities, and gives an outlook for 2024 and beyond that is specifically designed to help aftermarket companies make better business decisions."

SEMA business members can download the full report for free and access additional chapters on product trends, manufacturer insights, vehicle sales trends and more at sema.org/research.

By SEMA News Editors

Nitrocross, the American rallycross racing series created by global icon Travis Pastrana, has introduced the Nitrocross NEXT EVO, the latest vehicle in the series' dynamic development ladder. With a sustainable design integrating components from existing NEXT series vehicles, the Nitrocross NEXT EVO serves as an ideal platform to nurture the next generation of champions.

Developed by First Corner, the NEXT EVO is based on the company's FC2 concept and upcycles components from existing NEXT cars. The vehicle also significantly reduces costs for teams by also offering teams the opportunity to gain a return on their investment via an investment reduction program, where redundant components are resold via a dedicated online portal, the first of its kind in motorsport.

This latest model combines the existing Nitrocross NEXT series' chassis, transmission and differentials with all-new state-of-the-art bodywork, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, enhanced suspension and chassis reinforcements, ensuring heightened performance and reduced operational expenses, all generated from First Corner's FC2-Kit approach.

"Through the refurbishment of existing cars, we are meeting all the targets set by the series at a fraction of the cost. These upcycled cars are set to become one of the most intriguing developments in this tier of motorsport, and I anticipate witnessing the next generation of talented drivers competing in these highly capable vehicles," said Chip Pankow, general manager of Nitrocross.

The new internal combustion engine generates 450 hp, which can be boosted up to 550 hp using Nitro Boost push-to-pass technology. Notably, it runs exclusively on 100% eco fuel, aligning with Nitrocross's commitment to sustainable practices. The fossil-free fuel emits 80% less CO₂ than conventional fuel and contains zero ethanol.

For more information, including steering and suspension upgrades, visit the Nitrocross announcement or visit nitrocrossracing.com.

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

By SEMA News Editors

Pit+Paddock has announced its latest endeavor comes to Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World, where it will host an unforgettable motorsports viewing experience in a freshly revamped viewing suite. Its guests will enjoy luxurious accommodations, dining and entertainment amidst the full-fledged racing action. The effort flexes the agency's ability to cement strategic partnerships, showcase its accrued industry access and create meaningful opportunities for patrons and guests to network during its multi-day activation. 

"The Las Vegas race experience helps reinforce Pit+Paddock's focus on delivering unique experiences that marry entertainment and motorsport at the highest level," said Daryl Sampson, vice president of business development and marketing at Pit+Paddock. "Being at the right place at the right time is important for any marketing agency, and I believe Pit+Paddock has excelled at recognizing these opportunities. We've found ways to make a big imprint on the industry within a very short time." 

Three years and nearly 100 activations, millions of impressions and one primary goal--redefining how a marketing agency approaches projects--have shaped Pit+Paddock's taste-making reputation. The agency has used its collective experience in print and digital publications, sales and creative production to create a valuable intersection between innovative storytelling, industry collaborations and memorable experiences.

For more information, visit pitpad.com.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Assemblymember Marie Waldron has presented a special resolution from the State Assembly honoring HOT ROD magazine's 75th anniversary during a special ceremony at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. The resolution recognizes the magazine's significant contributions to the automotive industry and the state of California.

(Left to right) California Assemblymember Marie Waldron and HOT ROD's Mike Galimi and Michael Essex.

Waldron is a longtime supporter of HOT ROD magazine and the automotive community. She is a regular at the SEMA Show and is a member of the SEMA-supported State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. During the 2022 SEMA Show, Waldron's '39 Ford pickup was prominently displayed at SEMA Central in the grand lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

In her presentation, Waldron praised HOT ROD magazine for its unwavering commitment to celebrating the spirit of speed and style.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Great news for Virginia industry members! Three of the four candidates that SEMA's Driving Force Action had supported in their independent expenditure efforts won their contests to be Virginia's next state senators. SEMA congratulates Virginia Senators-elect Emily Brewer, Danny Diggs and Tara Durant for their recent victories.

(left to right) Virginia Senators-elect Emily Brewer, Danny Diggs and Tara Durant were supported in their efforts by SEMA's Driving Force Action.

Throughout the campaign, Driving Force Action made significant gains in educating voters and consumers in the Commonwealth about the limits of our freedom to choose the cars we love and the choices that best suit our families' needs. This election is a significant step forward for future elections and our commitment to repealing the state's impending ban on internal combustion engines. 

As a result of this year's efforts, car enthusiasts emerged from this election stronger, more united and more determined than ever to protect our rights. SEMA Driving Force Action voices its hope that those elected will take notice of this issue and recognize the desire of Virginia consumers to have their freedom of vehicle choice protected. And that Virginians, not Californians, should make their own state laws.

SEMA knows the industry faces an uphill battle, but we will continue to fight for our freedom by educating lawmakers about this ill-conceived policy and that consumers stand by their freedom to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs.

This week's elections were only a first step in SEMA Driving Force Action's dedicated effort to repeal Virginia's law that bans ICE and ICE products. 

Driving Force Action, a project of SEMA, is dedicated to upholding the joy of driving and safeguarding the future for auto enthusiasts everywhere. If you're a devoted car lover, a gearhead, a car mechanic or even an auto business owner, Driving Force Action is your community. 

For more information, visit drivingforceaction.org.