The Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA will include "TPMS Best Practices: A Town Hall Meeting," an educational seminar that will provide a wealth of information on standard operating procedures that will help to ensure that tire-pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) will create profits for their dealership.

The Tire Industry Association (TIA) has announced the speaker lineup for its educational seminar, "TPMS Best Practices: A Town Hall Meeting," at the Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA during the 2012 SEMA Show. The seminar is scheduled for Tuesday, October 30, beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The seminar will provide attendees with a wealth of information on standard operating procedures, ensuring that tire-pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) will create profits for their dealership. This gathering of industry experts is designed to provide attendees with one voice on how to properly service and maintain these systems. Global Tire Expo (GTE) attendees will also hear from the OE side of TPMS and get a look into its future. All aspects of the TPMS industry are represented at this panel. They agree that the industry needs a unified voice, designed to offer standard recommendations, in order to make TPMS service less confusing. All of TIA’s speakers agree that no matter what products tire dealers utilize, the need for proper and consistent training is the key to being successful.

Mark Becker has been the senior manager and plant manager for 22 years at Pacific Manufacturing Ohio Inc. During his time with the company, he has acted as the TPMS liaison, and he has been responsible for sales, quality, production and engineering activities for its original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket in North America.

John Rice is the TPMS/Technologies marketing manager for 31 Incorporated. He has in-depth knowledge of tire-pressure monitoring systems and tools, and he has trained the sales and technical support staffs of numerous leading automotive aftermarket companies. Prior to joining 31 Inc., Rice held similar roles with Spectrum Composites Inc. and K-Tool International, leading national sales teams focused of the successful introduction/growth on the T.I.P.S. and KTip.s.t Tools for servicing direct-type TPMS.

Brian Rigney has 12 years of experience in TPMS working for Eaton Corp. and Dill Air Controls. Rigney is the president of Dill, a company that manufactures and distributes TPMS service kits, valve stems, replacement sensors and mechanical tools. He has been involved in TPMS from a design perspective as a product engineer, from a training perspective by managing customer accounts, and from an overall strategy perspective by working with customers to grow the product line and help educate employees and consumers on this important safety system.

Tony Davenport has gained extensive global OE, as well as TPMS experience, while working in production management, program management and sales roles within Schrader since 2001. He led the development of Schrader’s EZ-Sensor product line from concept to launch. Davenport’s experience in both the OE and aftermarket brings a wealth of TPMS knowledge to the team.

Jean-Christophe Deniau, Ph.D. has been working at Continental (formerly Siemens VDO) since 2000 as an OE system engineer, project manager and leading technical expert. There, he has been involved in tire-pressure monitoring sensor and systems definitions, developments, validations and implementations. His customers include Ford, Chrysler, GM, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mazda, Suzuki and VW. Dr. Deniau has also been involved with the aftermarket's tire-pressure monitoring system replacement parts category to support and later to design VDO REDI-Sensor.

Steve Landis joined the aftermarket segment of Continental (formerly Siemens VDO) in 2005 as a product manager. He is responsible for the development, coordination and overall program management of the tire-pressure monitoring system replacement parts category in NAFTA, including the industry VDO REDI-Sensor.

Joe Donehue has more than 30 years of automotive and tire retailing experience. He also acted as the past general manager of TPMS manufacturer/distributor Orange Electronic USA and TPMS program manager for Belle Tire Distributors Inc. In 2010, he established Tiremetrix and developed TPMS Manager information software for the tire retailing industry and product partnership with the Tire Industry Association. Donehue has extensive knowledge of mandated TPMS systems, TPMS manufacturers and suppliers.

Stuart Ferguson, vice president of business development from Alligator has more than 25 years of experience in the field of automotive electronics. He has worked in the field of TPMS for eight years with a technology startup to develop core technology for TPMS sensors targeted at all major automotive Tier 1 and OE suppliers worldwide. At Alligator, he used this background and knowledge during the past three years to help develop replacement market solutions which are focused on simplifying the process of servicing TPMS in the tire shop environment.

Carl Wacker has been in the automotive electronics industry for more than 25 years. He has experience in electronics design, manufacturing, quality engineering, logistics, as well as sales and marketing. Wacker joined Schrader Electronics at the infancy of the tire-pressure monitoring market and has established himself as one of the primary experts in this field. Prior to working for Schrader Electronics, Wacker held a variety of positions at General Motors for more than 10 years. He is currently the vice president of global sales and marketing for Schrader Electronics.

Scot Holloway, CEO of Bartec USA, is a leading authority in tire-pressure monitoring systems tools and solutions. With more than seven years of experience in this aftermarket category, Holloway offers insight and valuable information relative to TPMS technology, tools and solutions for both the original equipment and aftermarket sectors. Holloway holds a bachelor of business administration degree from Northwood University and is a TIA-Certified ATS Advanced Instructor. The Bartec Group of companies have long been leaders in TPMS with installations worldwide for all varieties of makes and models.

Ros Rodrigues, senior account manager for TRW Automotive - Parts and Service North America, is the lead commercial contact for the independent aftermarket for all issues related to TRW electronic products. Rodrigues works closely with the TRW OE TPMS engineering team and the aftermarket product team to ensure that service replacement parts are made available to the various channels of distribution. In a previous role, Rodrigues spent many years in the service industry providing technical training to service distributors.

Russ Fuller, president of Revolution Supply - Oro-Tek TPMS, Ermald Muca, the regional sales manager of ATEQ Corp., and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development with the Tire Industry Association, will also be in attendance to give their expert advice.

Beginning with TIA’s special events on October 29 at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, the Global Tire Expo at the 2012 SEMA Show runs from October 30–November 2, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For the latest Expo information updates, and how to register, visit the “Events” section of www.tireindustry.org.

	The Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA will include "TPMS Best Practices: A Town Hall Meeting," an educational seminar that will provide a wealth of information on standard operating procedures that will help to ensure that tire-pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) will create profits for their dealership.

The Tire Industry Association (TIA) has announced the speaker lineup for its educational seminar, "TPMS Best Practices: A Town Hall Meeting," at the Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA during the 2012 SEMA Show. The seminar is scheduled for Tuesday, October 30, beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The seminar will provide attendees with a wealth of information on standard operating procedures, ensuring that tire-pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) will create profits for their dealership. This gathering of industry experts is designed to provide attendees with one voice on how to properly service and maintain these systems. Global Tire Expo (GTE) attendees will also hear from the OE side of TPMS and get a look into its future. All aspects of the TPMS industry are represented at this panel. They agree that the industry needs a unified voice, designed to offer standard recommendations, in order to make TPMS service less confusing. All of TIA’s speakers agree that no matter what products tire dealers utilize, the need for proper and consistent training is the key to being successful.

Mark Becker has been the senior manager and plant manager for 22 years at Pacific Manufacturing Ohio Inc. During his time with the company, he has acted as the TPMS liaison, and he has been responsible for sales, quality, production and engineering activities for its original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket in North America.

John Rice is the TPMS/Technologies marketing manager for 31 Incorporated. He has in-depth knowledge of tire-pressure monitoring systems and tools, and he has trained the sales and technical support staffs of numerous leading automotive aftermarket companies. Prior to joining 31 Inc., Rice held similar roles with Spectrum Composites Inc. and K-Tool International, leading national sales teams focused of the successful introduction/growth on the T.I.P.S. and KTip.s.t Tools for servicing direct-type TPMS.

Brian Rigney has 12 years of experience in TPMS working for Eaton Corp. and Dill Air Controls. Rigney is the president of Dill, a company that manufactures and distributes TPMS service kits, valve stems, replacement sensors and mechanical tools. He has been involved in TPMS from a design perspective as a product engineer, from a training perspective by managing customer accounts, and from an overall strategy perspective by working with customers to grow the product line and help educate employees and consumers on this important safety system.

Tony Davenport has gained extensive global OE, as well as TPMS experience, while working in production management, program management and sales roles within Schrader since 2001. He led the development of Schrader’s EZ-Sensor product line from concept to launch. Davenport’s experience in both the OE and aftermarket brings a wealth of TPMS knowledge to the team.

Jean-Christophe Deniau, Ph.D. has been working at Continental (formerly Siemens VDO) since 2000 as an OE system engineer, project manager and leading technical expert. There, he has been involved in tire-pressure monitoring sensor and systems definitions, developments, validations and implementations. His customers include Ford, Chrysler, GM, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mazda, Suzuki and VW. Dr. Deniau has also been involved with the aftermarket's tire-pressure monitoring system replacement parts category to support and later to design VDO REDI-Sensor.

Steve Landis joined the aftermarket segment of Continental (formerly Siemens VDO) in 2005 as a product manager. He is responsible for the development, coordination and overall program management of the tire-pressure monitoring system replacement parts category in NAFTA, including the industry VDO REDI-Sensor.

Joe Donehue has more than 30 years of automotive and tire retailing experience. He also acted as the past general manager of TPMS manufacturer/distributor Orange Electronic USA and TPMS program manager for Belle Tire Distributors Inc. In 2010, he established Tiremetrix and developed TPMS Manager information software for the tire retailing industry and product partnership with the Tire Industry Association. Donehue has extensive knowledge of mandated TPMS systems, TPMS manufacturers and suppliers.

Stuart Ferguson, vice president of business development from Alligator has more than 25 years of experience in the field of automotive electronics. He has worked in the field of TPMS for eight years with a technology startup to develop core technology for TPMS sensors targeted at all major automotive Tier 1 and OE suppliers worldwide. At Alligator, he used this background and knowledge during the past three years to help develop replacement market solutions which are focused on simplifying the process of servicing TPMS in the tire shop environment.

Carl Wacker has been in the automotive electronics industry for more than 25 years. He has experience in electronics design, manufacturing, quality engineering, logistics, as well as sales and marketing. Wacker joined Schrader Electronics at the infancy of the tire-pressure monitoring market and has established himself as one of the primary experts in this field. Prior to working for Schrader Electronics, Wacker held a variety of positions at General Motors for more than 10 years. He is currently the vice president of global sales and marketing for Schrader Electronics.

Scot Holloway, CEO of Bartec USA, is a leading authority in tire-pressure monitoring systems tools and solutions. With more than seven years of experience in this aftermarket category, Holloway offers insight and valuable information relative to TPMS technology, tools and solutions for both the original equipment and aftermarket sectors. Holloway holds a bachelor of business administration degree from Northwood University and is a TIA-Certified ATS Advanced Instructor. The Bartec Group of companies have long been leaders in TPMS with installations worldwide for all varieties of makes and models.

Ros Rodrigues, senior account manager for TRW Automotive - Parts and Service North America, is the lead commercial contact for the independent aftermarket for all issues related to TRW electronic products. Rodrigues works closely with the TRW OE TPMS engineering team and the aftermarket product team to ensure that service replacement parts are made available to the various channels of distribution. In a previous role, Rodrigues spent many years in the service industry providing technical training to service distributors.

Russ Fuller, president of Revolution Supply - Oro-Tek TPMS, Ermald Muca, the regional sales manager of ATEQ Corp., and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development with the Tire Industry Association, will also be in attendance to give their expert advice.

Beginning with TIA’s special events on October 29 at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, the Global Tire Expo at the 2012 SEMA Show runs from October 30–November 2, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For the latest Expo information updates, and how to register, visit the “Events” section of www.tireindustry.org.

	Phil Burke of Considine Sales & Marketing recently announced his retirement after 40 years of working in the automotive market.

Considine Sales & Marketing's Phil Burke Announces Retirement
Phil Burke of Considine Sales & Marketing has announced his retirement after more than 40 years in the automotive industry. Considine reported that Burke spent his career servicing his accounts and manufacturers with integrity and a slightly warped sense of humor, character traits that the team at Considine had come to respect and love. Burke's immediate plans for his retirement are to travel and spend time with his family. 

Classic Instruments Receives Manufacturer of the Year Award at NSRA Street Rod Nationals
Classic Instruments received the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the National Street Rod Association's (NSRA) Street Rod Nationals show in Louisville, Kentucky. The award is given to a company that has made outstanding contributions to the advancement of the street-rodding sport. Classic Industries announced that the company is very pleased to be recognized for its efforts and involvement with the automotive community and looks forward to continuing to serve the industry for years to come. 

CargoGlide Adds National and International Distributors
CargoGlide announced that several national and international distributors have recently signed on to carry the company's line of bedslide solutions for pickups, vans and SUVs. Recently added distributors include USA's Nelson Truck Equipment, Titan Truck, TPM Distributing, Adanac Inc. (Montreal, Quebec) and Truck Tops UK.

From left to right: President of Galpin Motors, Bert Boeckmann, with sons and company vice presidents, Brad Boeckmann and Beau Boeckmann with the late Carroll Shelby in the Galpin Ford showroom. Photo Credit: Galpin Motors

Galpin Auto Sports Named Authorized Shelby Mod Shop
Galpin Auto Sports has signed an agreement with Shelby American to become the only authorized Shelby Mod Shop in the western United States. Galpin Auto Sports can now take any Shelby car, upgrade the performance and styling and the work is endorsed by Shelby American. Any modifications performed will be documented in the Shelby Registry that chronicles the entire life of a Shelby vehicle.

"We are honored to become a Shelby Mod Shop," said Beau Boeckmann, president of Galpin Auto Sports. "My father and Carroll's relationship goes back 50 years, when Galpin Ford became the first Shelby dealer in California. Carroll Shelby was a dear friend, and we miss him tremendously. He was always looking to the future, so, for us, this is a way we can continue his legacy by building amazing cars that honor him."

Meguiar's Announces "Like Your Car Clean Sweeps Giveaway"
Meguiar's is giving Facebook fans and auto enthusiasts  a chance to win a variety of the company's car care products through its online "Like Your Car Clean Sweeps Giveaway." Running through September 28, enthusiasts can enter the contest by "liking" Meguiar's Facebook fan page and completing the official entry form. According to the company, prize packages will be revealed as the contest continues and will increase in size and value with each new fan.

	Formula Drift Holdings President and Co-founder Jim Liaw, along with Kenji Sumino (GReddy Performance Products), Steve Hatanaka (Scion) and Ken Gushi (Formula Drift Pro Driver), recently talked about the importance of auto safety to the classmates of Liaw's daughter at her school in Huntington Beach, California.

Formula Drift Holdings President and Friends Teach Students the Importance of Vehicle Safety
Formula Drift Holdings President and Co-founder Jim Liaw, along with Kenji Sumino (GReddy Performance Products), Steve Hatanaka (Scion) and Ken Gushi (Formula Drift Pro Driver), recently talked to the classmates of Liaw's daughter at her school in Huntington Beach, California. Liaw and his friends also brought with them the all new Formula Drift pro competition spec 2013 Scion FR-S. The students were on hand to see Gushi drive up to the front of the school and get out in his full race suit. They learned about seat belts and how important it is for a race car driver, as well as the kids, to buckle up when in a car; how helmets protect race car drivers, bicyclists and skateboarders; the child car seats and how just like for a race car driver, the seat is made for safety; and overall safety and how to be safe wherever they go and whatever they do. The children were all invited to sit in the driver’s seat of the ’13 Scion FR-S to feel the race seat and belts. 

CORSA Performance Exhausts Sponsors Dyno Challenge at Lingenfelter Performance Nationals
CORSA Performance Exhausts will install its exhaust systems onsite at the inaugural Lingenfelter Performance Nationals event, September 21–23, at the Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. Lingenfelter Performance Nationals features drag racing, autocross, car show, speed stop challenge, countryside cruise and a manufacturer's midway. CORSA will perform installations on behalf of Lingenfelter and will also the sponsor of the CORSA Performance Exhaust Dyno Challenge, running 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., on Friday and Saturday, and 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. on Sunday in the pits on the Budweiser side of the track. 

	More than 300 motorsports professionals and fans paid tribute to Linda Vaughn at the Lucas Family Estate in Carmel, Indiana, Wednesday, August 29. Photo credit: Dean Weasner/Quarter Mile Foundation.

More Than 300 Attendees Pay Tribute to Linda Vaughn
The Sports Palace at the Lucas Family Estate in Carmel, Indiana, was filled to capacity Wednesday, August 29, with more than 300 attendees, who paid tribute to Linda Vaughn—the “Queen of Speed.” The overall tone of the roasters was one of respect, admiration and love for one of motorsports’ most beloved icons. There were funny stories, but many were tributes to Vaughn’s unwavering love of the motorsports and performance aftermarket communities.

Presented by the Quarter Mile Foundation and emceed by Bob Frey, the event was a fundraising effort for the Foundation and to assist Linda. The room was a mixture of figures from many motorsports disciplines—drag racing, open wheel, stock car, road racing and fans. The evening opened with a surprise, as Darrell Gwynn came into the room dressed in drag as Linda, complete with the Hurst shifter arching up from the back of his electric wheelchair.

Starting with Jack (“Doc”) Watson, the list of roasters who followed featured motorsports and performance aftermarket legends, including Paul Candies, Jeg Coughlin Jr., Bob Glidden, Lyn St. James, Corky Coker, John Force, Bob Bruegging, Chip Ganassi and John Menzler. Each related his or her personal stories of Vaughn, and how her connections helped influence their lives or those of friends.

	The ACAT Global Ferrari 575 recently broke the 200-mph mark at the Bonneville Salt Flats during Bonneville Speedweek in Utah, with an "official" speed of 200.206 mph. Photo credit: Vivien Killilea.

ACAT Global Ferrari Breaks 200 MPH at Utah Salt Flats During Bonneville Speedweek
The Advanced Clean Air Technologies (ACAT) Global Ferrari 575 recently broke the 200-mph mark at the Bonneville Salt Flats during Bonneville Speedweek in Utah, with an "official" speed of 200.206 mph. Designed in conjunction with Jim Busby's JBR Motorsports, the stock production Ferrari 575 was equipped with an ACAT Global catalytic converter.

Breaking the 200-mph mark within the Grand Touring class places the ACAT Ferrari 575 and driver Joe W. Moch in a qualifying position for the World Speed Finals, once again at the Bonneville Salt Flats, October 3–6.

Brembo Awards Montezemolo at 83° Italy Grand Prix
During the official qualifying day of the 83° edition of the Italy Grand Prix at Monza, Brembo Chairman Alberto Bombassei and Formula One Management Limited (FOM) Chairman Bernie  Ecclestone gave the 2012 Bernie Ecclestone Award to Ferrari’s Luca Cordero di Montezemolo.

Since 1975, Brembo has achieved 17 Drivers World Championships and 22 Constructors World Championships: 14 with Scuderia Ferrari, three with McLaren Honda, two with Benetton, two with Red Bull Racing and one with Brawn GP.

	More than 300 motorsports professionals and fans paid tribute to Linda Vaughn at the Lucas Family Estate in Carmel, Indiana, Wednesday, August 29. Photo credit: Dean Weasner/Quarter Mile Foundation.

More Than 300 Attendees Pay Tribute to Linda Vaughn
The Sports Palace at the Lucas Family Estate in Carmel, Indiana, was filled to capacity Wednesday, August 29, with more than 300 attendees, who paid tribute to Linda Vaughn—the “Queen of Speed.” The overall tone of the roasters was one of respect, admiration and love for one of motorsports’ most beloved icons. There were funny stories, but many were tributes to Vaughn’s unwavering love of the motorsports and performance aftermarket communities.

Presented by the Quarter Mile Foundation and emceed by Bob Frey, the event was a fundraising effort for the Foundation and to assist Linda. The room was a mixture of figures from many motorsports disciplines—drag racing, open wheel, stock car, road racing and fans. The evening opened with a surprise, as Darrell Gwynn came into the room dressed in drag as Linda, complete with the Hurst shifter arching up from the back of his electric wheelchair.

Starting with Jack (“Doc”) Watson, the list of roasters who followed featured motorsports and performance aftermarket legends, including Paul Candies, Jeg Coughlin Jr., Bob Glidden, Lyn St. James, Corky Coker, John Force, Bob Bruegging, Chip Ganassi and John Menzler. Each related his or her personal stories of Vaughn, and how her connections helped influence their lives or those of friends.

	The ACAT Global Ferrari 575 recently broke the 200-mph mark at the Bonneville Salt Flats during Bonneville Speedweek in Utah, with an "official" speed of 200.206 mph. Photo credit: Vivien Killilea.

ACAT Global Ferrari Breaks 200 MPH at Utah Salt Flats During Bonneville Speedweek
The Advanced Clean Air Technologies (ACAT) Global Ferrari 575 recently broke the 200-mph mark at the Bonneville Salt Flats during Bonneville Speedweek in Utah, with an "official" speed of 200.206 mph. Designed in conjunction with Jim Busby's JBR Motorsports, the stock production Ferrari 575 was equipped with an ACAT Global catalytic converter.

Breaking the 200-mph mark within the Grand Touring class places the ACAT Ferrari 575 and driver Joe W. Moch in a qualifying position for the World Speed Finals, once again at the Bonneville Salt Flats, October 3–6.

Brembo Awards Montezemolo at 83° Italy Grand Prix
During the official qualifying day of the 83° edition of the Italy Grand Prix at Monza, Brembo Chairman Alberto Bombassei and Formula One Management Limited (FOM) Chairman Bernie  Ecclestone gave the 2012 Bernie Ecclestone Award to Ferrari’s Luca Cordero di Montezemolo.

Since 1975, Brembo has achieved 17 Drivers World Championships and 22 Constructors World Championships: 14 with Scuderia Ferrari, three with McLaren Honda, two with Benetton, two with Red Bull Racing and one with Brawn GP.

	B Rod or Custom's Pinewood Builders Challenge entry this year resembled a Salt Flats race car.

Some of the nation’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders recently took part in the third-annual Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Pinewood Builders Challenge. Fifteen well-known builders created one-of-a-kind miniature hot rods in the style of Pinewood derby cars. The cars were raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California, with the car built by Derek White of Street Vizions winning the race. All of these cars will be on display at the annual SEMA Show and then placed on eBay for auction from October 30–November 8. All proceeds from the auction will go to support SEMA Cares and its two children’s charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction.

Larry Burchett, owner of B Rod or Custom was one hot-rod builder who participated in the Pinewood Builders Challenge. Meet Larry:

Describe the inspirations behind the design of your Pinewood car.

My son PJ and I feel very honored that B Rod or Custom Inc. was asked to be part of this worthy effort to raise money for two great charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction. It is not very often that I have the luxury to afford to donate to charity or be able to build and give away a car that is an extension of our artistic abilities. So when I was approached at last year's HRIA Awards banquet to build a Pinewood car, my son and I jumped at the opportunity to participate.

	Larry and PJ Burchett.

Describe some of the materials and resources you used to build your car.

I have been a fan of Salt Flats race cars for as long as I can remember, so when PJ and I started planning the Pinewood car, two criteria had to be met—it was going to be the fastest and the best-looking car. So with speed and style in mind, I naturally thought of the cool cars that are raced on the Salt Flats each year, thus the inspiration for the B Rod Flyer.

Why is it important for you to participate in the Pinewood Challenge?

My approach to all of the projects at B Rod is pre-planning and research. And the first thing that I always try to do is get Eric Brockmeyer to reindeer my ideas. We have worked together on several projects in the past and, amazingly, he has always captured my vision in his drawings. Once the look was decided on, the sculpting began. Naturally, part of the Pinewood kit was used, i.e., the wood, but since I am not a woodworker, I did my finish work using materials that I work with each day—body filler and plastic. Next, I asked a friend, who happens to be an engineering professor at the University of Tennessee and also races cars, to suggest the best size and design for maximum wheel performance and weight distribution. Bearings were a critical part of my wheel equation and, again, a friend who owns a bearing company stepped up. And finally, for the maximum visual excitement, the car was painted with Dupont Base/Clear, hand pinstriped and custom graphics were designed to acknowledge the contributors who graciously donated their times and materials.

	B Rod or Custom's Pinewood Builders Challenge entry this year resembled a Salt Flats race car.

Some of the nation’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders recently took part in the third-annual Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Pinewood Builders Challenge. Fifteen well-known builders created one-of-a-kind miniature hot rods in the style of Pinewood derby cars. The cars were raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California, with the car built by Derek White of Street Vizions winning the race. All of these cars will be on display at the annual SEMA Show and then placed on eBay for auction from October 30–November 8. All proceeds from the auction will go to support SEMA Cares and its two children’s charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction.

Larry Burchett, owner of B Rod or Custom was one hot-rod builder who participated in the Pinewood Builders Challenge. Meet Larry:

Describe the inspirations behind the design of your Pinewood car.

My son PJ and I feel very honored that B Rod or Custom Inc. was asked to be part of this worthy effort to raise money for two great charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction. It is not very often that I have the luxury to afford to donate to charity or be able to build and give away a car that is an extension of our artistic abilities. So when I was approached at last year's HRIA Awards banquet to build a Pinewood car, my son and I jumped at the opportunity to participate.

	Larry and PJ Burchett.

Describe some of the materials and resources you used to build your car.

I have been a fan of Salt Flats race cars for as long as I can remember, so when PJ and I started planning the Pinewood car, two criteria had to be met—it was going to be the fastest and the best-looking car. So with speed and style in mind, I naturally thought of the cool cars that are raced on the Salt Flats each year, thus the inspiration for the B Rod Flyer.

Why is it important for you to participate in the Pinewood Challenge?

My approach to all of the projects at B Rod is pre-planning and research. And the first thing that I always try to do is get Eric Brockmeyer to reindeer my ideas. We have worked together on several projects in the past and, amazingly, he has always captured my vision in his drawings. Once the look was decided on, the sculpting began. Naturally, part of the Pinewood kit was used, i.e., the wood, but since I am not a woodworker, I did my finish work using materials that I work with each day—body filler and plastic. Next, I asked a friend, who happens to be an engineering professor at the University of Tennessee and also races cars, to suggest the best size and design for maximum wheel performance and weight distribution. Bearings were a critical part of my wheel equation and, again, a friend who owns a bearing company stepped up. And finally, for the maximum visual excitement, the car was painted with Dupont Base/Clear, hand pinstriped and custom graphics were designed to acknowledge the contributors who graciously donated their times and materials.

	B Rod or Custom's Pinewood Builders Challenge entry this year resembled a Salt Flats race car.

Some of the nation’s best custom-car and hot-rod builders recently took part in the third-annual Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Pinewood Builders Challenge. Fifteen well-known builders created one-of-a-kind miniature hot rods in the style of Pinewood derby cars. The cars were raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California, with the car built by Derek White of Street Vizions winning the race. All of these cars will be on display at the annual SEMA Show and then placed on eBay for auction from October 30–November 8. All proceeds from the auction will go to support SEMA Cares and its two children’s charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction.

Larry Burchett, owner of B Rod or Custom was one hot-rod builder who participated in the Pinewood Builders Challenge. Meet Larry:

Describe the inspirations behind the design of your Pinewood car.

My son PJ and I feel very honored that B Rod or Custom Inc. was asked to be part of this worthy effort to raise money for two great charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction. It is not very often that I have the luxury to afford to donate to charity or be able to build and give away a car that is an extension of our artistic abilities. So when I was approached at last year's HRIA Awards banquet to build a Pinewood car, my son and I jumped at the opportunity to participate.

	Larry and PJ Burchett.

Describe some of the materials and resources you used to build your car.

I have been a fan of Salt Flats race cars for as long as I can remember, so when PJ and I started planning the Pinewood car, two criteria had to be met—it was going to be the fastest and the best-looking car. So with speed and style in mind, I naturally thought of the cool cars that are raced on the Salt Flats each year, thus the inspiration for the B Rod Flyer.

Why is it important for you to participate in the Pinewood Challenge?

My approach to all of the projects at B Rod is pre-planning and research. And the first thing that I always try to do is get Eric Brockmeyer to reindeer my ideas. We have worked together on several projects in the past and, amazingly, he has always captured my vision in his drawings. Once the look was decided on, the sculpting began. Naturally, part of the Pinewood kit was used, i.e., the wood, but since I am not a woodworker, I did my finish work using materials that I work with each day—body filler and plastic. Next, I asked a friend, who happens to be an engineering professor at the University of Tennessee and also races cars, to suggest the best size and design for maximum wheel performance and weight distribution. Bearings were a critical part of my wheel equation and, again, a friend who owns a bearing company stepped up. And finally, for the maximum visual excitement, the car was painted with Dupont Base/Clear, hand pinstriped and custom graphics were designed to acknowledge the contributors who graciously donated their times and materials.

SEMA News—August 2012

LEGISLATIVE AND TECHNICAL AFFAIRS

SEMA Members React to a Legacy of Legislative Successes

Some Legislative Proposals Follow Predictable Patterns

Among the greatest challenges of any business is the effort and skill required to stay current or even ahead of what is popular. Predicting trends and following their progress are key elements to success not only in business, but also in politics. Just as businesses are subject to consumer sentiments and economic fluctuations, timely legislative initiatives and popular regulatory proposals can be shaped by any number of national variables and are often broadly applicable. The following are several important legislative trends affecting the automotive specialty-equipment industry that continue to feature prominently in state and federal government agendas.

Clean Vehicle Incentives

In this election year, the price of gasoline has once again emerged as a national issue, topping the list of many voters’ concerns. In the name of emissions reduction and national security, the federal government has introduced initiatives to increase the fuel efficiency of new vehicles sold in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) program, instituted in 1975, is today being used as a tool to push new motor vehicles to be progressively more efficient, eventually reaching an average of 60 miles per gallon by 2025.

Incentive programs to reduce emissions and consumer dependency on petroleum are not unique to the federal government, however. Legislation to reduce the sale of gas guzzlers and remove older “gross polluters” was introduced in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. In New York, proposed legislation would create the Clean Vehicle Incentive Program, consisting of rebates and surcharges on the purchase of new motor vehicles based on their emissions.

Major auto manufacturers are not waiting for these proposals to become realities, however. As global oil production remains subject to unpredictable fluctuations, prices at the pump remain higher than ever. As the cost of operating a vehicle continues to require consumers to search for more fuel-efficient options, manufacturers respond to new market demands.

Large automakers are pouring resources into developing new technologies to increase efficiency while maintaining the performance and quality expected by American consumers. Most of these manufacturers are already pressing for production of vehicles that use traditional gasoline more efficiently while also introducing new and alternative fuel technologies. The push for increased fuel economy has already resulted in companies moving away from the traditional mantra of “no replacement for displacement” in favor of swap-ping V8s for turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines.

The trend of legislation and regulation pushing for increased fuel economy is one that will continue to shape the new-car market and production offerings of major manufacturers for the foreseeable future.

The Burden of Increased Government Regulation

Increased government regulation is a major point of contention in politics today. The accumulation of requirements that must be followed when providing goods or services to a consumer has become increasingly burdensome. Many states create excessive and often costly roadblocks that inhibit the timing and efficiency of a business.

In Maryland and New York, bills to further regulate and track the manufacture and use of tires by imposing additional identification numbers goes beyond the sufficient checks to insure quality and safety. In Michigan, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Georgia, legislatures considered bills that would require installers to inform consumers of the use of mechanical aftermarket parts in the repair of their vehicles.

The time and paperwork required by these proposed regulations burden the already complicated process of auto repair and place a negative stigma on many parts that are often designed to be safer and more affordable than original-manufacturer equipment.

Hobby Cars as Revenue Sources

It has been four years since the collapse of the global economy, and the fallout from the ensuing credit crunch is still reverberating across the country. As budget shortfalls become a perpetual concern, states and municipalities continue to search for ways to raise revenue.

As a result of the perceived luxury status of collector cars, registration exemptions and specialty-use provisions become easy targets. In Virginia and Washington, legislatures attempted this year to raise funds by modifying annual fees imposed on the registration of collector vehicles. Additionally, in Maryland, a bill was introduced to increase the age of vehicles that qualify for registration as historical motor vehicles, thus decreasing the number of vehicles eligible for a reduced rate.

As all levels of government across the nation continue to work to protect public services while operating on reduced budgets, the exemptions classic-car hobbyists and enthusiasts enjoy will continue to come under threat.

Read the complete story in the August issue of SEMA News.