By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

On Sept, 24, 2013, the Massachusetts Joint Transportation Committee heard testimony on a bill that would ban the “use and sale of any exhaust pipe that increases the sound emission of any vehicle, including motorcycles.” The legislation supplies law enforcement with a clear standard to enforce for motorcycles, but does not provide a test standard or decibel level for modified exhaust systems installed on any other motor vehicle, including passenger cars and trucks. 

While the bill remains eligible for an executive session by the committee, no vote has yet been taken. It is not too late to voice your opposition. For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

On Sept, 24, 2013, the Massachusetts Joint Transportation Committee heard testimony on a bill that would ban the “use and sale of any exhaust pipe that increases the sound emission of any vehicle, including motorcycles.” The legislation supplies law enforcement with a clear standard to enforce for motorcycles, but does not provide a test standard or decibel level for modified exhaust systems installed on any other motor vehicle, including passenger cars and trucks. 

While the bill remains eligible for an executive session by the committee, no vote has yet been taken. It is not too late to voice your opposition. For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

On Sept, 24, 2013, the Massachusetts Joint Transportation Committee heard testimony on a bill that would ban the “use and sale of any exhaust pipe that increases the sound emission of any vehicle, including motorcycles.” The legislation supplies law enforcement with a clear standard to enforce for motorcycles, but does not provide a test standard or decibel level for modified exhaust systems installed on any other motor vehicle, including passenger cars and trucks. 

While the bill remains eligible for an executive session by the committee, no vote has yet been taken. It is not too late to voice your opposition. For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has included a recommendation in its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) that encourages manufacturers to equip new vehicles with a rearview video system. NCAP includes a five-star rating system for raising consumer awareness about crashworthiness and rollover safety information. The NCAP update is separate from NHTSA’s proposed rule to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111 (Rear View Mirrors) to require all new passenger cars be equipped with a rearview camera system. The equipment is intended to prevent accidents by alerting drivers when pedestrians are behind the vehicles.

Under a law passed in 2008, the NHTSA had until 2011 to issue the rule to be phased-in by 2014. While the law permitted sensors, mirrors or other devices to provide drivers with rearward information, the NHTSA determined that a camera and dashboard display screen system was the best solution. The automakers have generally objected to not being provided more flexibility in determining cost-effective ways to achieve the goal. A lawsuit has been filed in federal court to require the NHTSA to issue a final rule and make the cameras mandatory. As of 2012, about 44% of new cars included rear cameras as standard equipment and another 27% offered the equipment as an option. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has included a recommendation in its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) that encourages manufacturers to equip new vehicles with a rearview video system. NCAP includes a five-star rating system for raising consumer awareness about crashworthiness and rollover safety information. The NCAP update is separate from NHTSA’s proposed rule to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111 (Rear View Mirrors) to require all new passenger cars be equipped with a rearview camera system. The equipment is intended to prevent accidents by alerting drivers when pedestrians are behind the vehicles.

Under a law passed in 2008, the NHTSA had until 2011 to issue the rule to be phased-in by 2014. While the law permitted sensors, mirrors or other devices to provide drivers with rearward information, the NHTSA determined that a camera and dashboard display screen system was the best solution. The automakers have generally objected to not being provided more flexibility in determining cost-effective ways to achieve the goal. A lawsuit has been filed in federal court to require the NHTSA to issue a final rule and make the cameras mandatory. As of 2012, about 44% of new cars included rear cameras as standard equipment and another 27% offered the equipment as an option. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By Chad Simon

	Representatives from Discount Tire Co. attended the Measuring Session to check the specs for the ’14 Honda Odyssey minivan.
	The ’14 Acura RLX mid-luxury sedan is completely redesigned, featuring a 310-hp, direct-injected 3.5L V6 i-VTEC.
	SEMA-member manufacturers came to measure the ’14 Honda Goldwing F6B.
	The Measuring Session featured another first—the Pioneer SXS all-terrain vehicle.

For the first time ever, the SEMA Measuring Sessions program hosted a motorcyle and ATV OEM. Well-attended by SEMA-member manufacturers, the Honda/Acura Measuring Session was held last week at the SEMA Garage, and featured ’14 versions of the Honda Grom, CTX700 and Goldwing F6B motorcycles, the Pioneer SXS all-terrain vehicle and Odyssey minivan. The ’14 Acura MDX midsize SUV and RLX mid-luxury sedan were also available for members to explore.


SEMA Measuring Sessions provide an integration platform for different sectors of the aftermarket community. Members acquaint themselves with new vehicles before their release or immediately following their debut. Participants can question manufacturer representatives and offer their feedback regarding the new vehicles. SEMA acquires first-production or pre-production test vehicles for the sessions, allowing wheel companies, performance groups and cosmetic restyling businesses to shorten the lead-time for new products. SEMA often gathers two or more vehicles for each session, increasing the value of each event.

At the latest Measuring Session, an exhaust company measured the undercarriage of a vehicle while a wheel company inspected the latest braking system. Meanwhile, the second test vehicle was examined by seat-cover companies, a floor mat company and a second performance parts group. After inspecting the cars, SEMA members lingered and reconnected with industry friends, which provided valuable personal interaction not often facilitated by modern online social platforms.

"I find Measuring Sessions refresh my enthusiasm for the industry by allowing me the chance to get back to the basics of the aftermarket community," said Gavin Horlick of Voxx Products. "Instead of sitting behind a desk selling product, answering questions or reviewing data reports, I can interact with the latest vehicles, which allows me to stay informed of advances in the OEM industry. The accumulation of knowledge gained from the Measuring Session allows me to better serve consumers. The Measuring Sessions add value to my SEMA membership."


Measuring Sessions have also been a valuable part of SEMA’s Tech Transfer program, which grants SEMA manufacturing members access to vehicle CAD files provided directly from participating OEMs. The intent of the program is to help streamline production by minimizing or completely eliminating the necessity for reverse engineering. Chrysler, Ford, General Motors and Scion are currently participating in the program. SEMA Measuring Sessions and the Tech Transfer Program are functions of SEMA's OEM department.

"The SEMA Measuring Sessions are very helpful for us in developing product for new vehicles," said Mike Barland of MGP Caliper Covers. "In the case of the new Acura RLX, MGP was approached weeks earlier by a builder to provide caliper covers for his SEMA car. As soon as SEMA announced it would have the RLX for a Measuring Session, we made the appointment and took advantage of this service. The Measuring Session gives MGP the opportunity to fit up a car directly. We verify wheel clearance, rotor clearance and overall fit and function on the car. I prefer this type of hands-on method; it gives me confidence that MGP's product will fit correctly. With a functional fitment, we also take pictures of the product on the car to help customers troubleshoot if install issues arise."



In addition to access to upcoming vehicles, SEMA Measuring Session participants can also ask questions of the participating OEM staff to learn more about the vehicles, the automaker's marketing plans, the intended audience and more.



For additional information on Measuring Sessions, Tech Transfer and additional programs available through SEMA's OEM Relations department, visit www.sema.org/oem.

The ’14 Honda/Acura Measuring Session participants included:

• American Tire Distributors
• Carlisle Tire and Wheel
• Discount Tire Co.
• K&N Filters
• McGard
• MGP Caliper Covers
• Prestige Autotech Corp.
• Ultra Wheel
• Voxx Products
• Wet Okole
• Westin Automotive Products
• Wheel Consultants Inc.
• Wheel Pros

By Chad Simon

	Representatives from Discount Tire Co. attended the Measuring Session to check the specs for the ’14 Honda Odyssey minivan.
	The ’14 Acura RLX mid-luxury sedan is completely redesigned, featuring a 310-hp, direct-injected 3.5L V6 i-VTEC.
	SEMA-member manufacturers came to measure the ’14 Honda Goldwing F6B.
	The Measuring Session featured another first—the Pioneer SXS all-terrain vehicle.

For the first time ever, the SEMA Measuring Sessions program hosted a motorcyle and ATV OEM. Well-attended by SEMA-member manufacturers, the Honda/Acura Measuring Session was held last week at the SEMA Garage, and featured ’14 versions of the Honda Grom, CTX700 and Goldwing F6B motorcycles, the Pioneer SXS all-terrain vehicle and Odyssey minivan. The ’14 Acura MDX midsize SUV and RLX mid-luxury sedan were also available for members to explore.


SEMA Measuring Sessions provide an integration platform for different sectors of the aftermarket community. Members acquaint themselves with new vehicles before their release or immediately following their debut. Participants can question manufacturer representatives and offer their feedback regarding the new vehicles. SEMA acquires first-production or pre-production test vehicles for the sessions, allowing wheel companies, performance groups and cosmetic restyling businesses to shorten the lead-time for new products. SEMA often gathers two or more vehicles for each session, increasing the value of each event.

At the latest Measuring Session, an exhaust company measured the undercarriage of a vehicle while a wheel company inspected the latest braking system. Meanwhile, the second test vehicle was examined by seat-cover companies, a floor mat company and a second performance parts group. After inspecting the cars, SEMA members lingered and reconnected with industry friends, which provided valuable personal interaction not often facilitated by modern online social platforms.

"I find Measuring Sessions refresh my enthusiasm for the industry by allowing me the chance to get back to the basics of the aftermarket community," said Gavin Horlick of Voxx Products. "Instead of sitting behind a desk selling product, answering questions or reviewing data reports, I can interact with the latest vehicles, which allows me to stay informed of advances in the OEM industry. The accumulation of knowledge gained from the Measuring Session allows me to better serve consumers. The Measuring Sessions add value to my SEMA membership."


Measuring Sessions have also been a valuable part of SEMA’s Tech Transfer program, which grants SEMA manufacturing members access to vehicle CAD files provided directly from participating OEMs. The intent of the program is to help streamline production by minimizing or completely eliminating the necessity for reverse engineering. Chrysler, Ford, General Motors and Scion are currently participating in the program. SEMA Measuring Sessions and the Tech Transfer Program are functions of SEMA's OEM department.

"The SEMA Measuring Sessions are very helpful for us in developing product for new vehicles," said Mike Barland of MGP Caliper Covers. "In the case of the new Acura RLX, MGP was approached weeks earlier by a builder to provide caliper covers for his SEMA car. As soon as SEMA announced it would have the RLX for a Measuring Session, we made the appointment and took advantage of this service. The Measuring Session gives MGP the opportunity to fit up a car directly. We verify wheel clearance, rotor clearance and overall fit and function on the car. I prefer this type of hands-on method; it gives me confidence that MGP's product will fit correctly. With a functional fitment, we also take pictures of the product on the car to help customers troubleshoot if install issues arise."



In addition to access to upcoming vehicles, SEMA Measuring Session participants can also ask questions of the participating OEM staff to learn more about the vehicles, the automaker's marketing plans, the intended audience and more.



For additional information on Measuring Sessions, Tech Transfer and additional programs available through SEMA's OEM Relations department, visit www.sema.org/oem.

The ’14 Honda/Acura Measuring Session participants included:

• American Tire Distributors
• Carlisle Tire and Wheel
• Discount Tire Co.
• K&N Filters
• McGard
• MGP Caliper Covers
• Prestige Autotech Corp.
• Ultra Wheel
• Voxx Products
• Wet Okole
• Westin Automotive Products
• Wheel Consultants Inc.
• Wheel Pros