Thu, 05/24/2012 - 15:01
  collision repair
  The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the 2012 SEMA Show.

The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year.

With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show from Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, 2012, in Las Vegas. The headline session, “Game Changers – Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Other sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, as well as those that examine how new metals used in the construction of today's vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing an accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows, and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Register now!

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 15:01
  collision repair
  The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the 2012 SEMA Show.

The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year.

With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show from Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, 2012, in Las Vegas. The headline session, “Game Changers – Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Other sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, as well as those that examine how new metals used in the construction of today's vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing an accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows, and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Register now!

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 15:01
  collision repair
  The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the 2012 SEMA Show.

The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year.

With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show from Tuesday–Friday, October 30–November 2, 2012, in Las Vegas. The headline session, “Game Changers – Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Other sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, as well as those that examine how new metals used in the construction of today's vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing an accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows, and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Register now!

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:34
  aftermarket news, automotive aftermarket news
Nat Danas, founder and publisher of Auto Trim & Restyling News, passed away at the age of 89. 
 

Nat Danas, founder and publisher of Auto Trim & Restyling News passed away Monday, May 21. He was 89. Danas' knowledge and experience in the restyling industry spans more than 60 years, and he was known by many as a trendsetter, technical expert and teacher. 

He began his career in the restyling industry in his early 20s through a small trim shop that he owned and operated in New York City in the '40s and '50s. In 1952, Danas founded/published Auto Trim News magazine, which is recognized as the oldest publication serving the restyling, restoration and trim industries. 

Throughout his career, Danas was dedicated to education and training, and he served as a mentor to many restylers nationwide. He organized and produced a series of regional trade-only shows, was a frequent presenter and speaker for technical and business-management-related topics, founded the National Association for Auto Trim Shops, and created the Craftsman of the Year award that recognized restylers who practiced the concepts of adhering to best business practices and supported a voluntary code of ethics for work quality.

"Nat was more than someone who simply published a magazine for the trim and restyling industry. He was not only responsible for bringing the industry together and making it a significant force within the specialty automotive market, he was totally dedicated to sharing his knowledge and wisdom," said Ellen McKoy, owner of EMK Marketing. "Throughout his life, he mentored countless people throughout the industry. I was fortunate to have worked with Nat as his editor, and we remained close friends for more than 35 years. He was a shining light and an inspiration, and the impact he had on me personally and the restyling industry was profound."

A long-time SEMA member until his retirement, Danas not only was instrumental in Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) becoming a then-SEMA committee, but he also served multiple terms on the council's select committee and was the first person to receive the PRO Lifetime Achievement Award. A few years ago, in honor of Danas, PRO named one of its awards in his honor—the Nat Danas Person of the Year.

 

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:34
  aftermarket news, automotive aftermarket news
Nat Danas, founder and publisher of Auto Trim & Restyling News, passed away at the age of 89. 
 

Nat Danas, founder and publisher of Auto Trim & Restyling News passed away Monday, May 21. He was 89. Danas' knowledge and experience in the restyling industry spans more than 60 years, and he was known by many as a trendsetter, technical expert and teacher. 

He began his career in the restyling industry in his early 20s through a small trim shop that he owned and operated in New York City in the '40s and '50s. In 1952, Danas founded/published Auto Trim News magazine, which is recognized as the oldest publication serving the restyling, restoration and trim industries. 

Throughout his career, Danas was dedicated to education and training, and he served as a mentor to many restylers nationwide. He organized and produced a series of regional trade-only shows, was a frequent presenter and speaker for technical and business-management-related topics, founded the National Association for Auto Trim Shops, and created the Craftsman of the Year award that recognized restylers who practiced the concepts of adhering to best business practices and supported a voluntary code of ethics for work quality.

"Nat was more than someone who simply published a magazine for the trim and restyling industry. He was not only responsible for bringing the industry together and making it a significant force within the specialty automotive market, he was totally dedicated to sharing his knowledge and wisdom," said Ellen McKoy, owner of EMK Marketing. "Throughout his life, he mentored countless people throughout the industry. I was fortunate to have worked with Nat as his editor, and we remained close friends for more than 35 years. He was a shining light and an inspiration, and the impact he had on me personally and the restyling industry was profound."

A long-time SEMA member until his retirement, Danas not only was instrumental in Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) becoming a then-SEMA committee, but he also served multiple terms on the council's select committee and was the first person to receive the PRO Lifetime Achievement Award. A few years ago, in honor of Danas, PRO named one of its awards in his honor—the Nat Danas Person of the Year.

 

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:26

future vehicles, spy photos, car spy shots, Mercedes E-Class

The team at Brenda Priddy & Co. did not expect to see an update this early, but here are some of the latest shots of the freshened version of the Mercedes E-Class.

Interior changes and engine updates are not currently available, but the pictures highlight visible modifications to the exterior; Priddy points out the new headlights that will mimic the next-generation C-Class. A slightly modified grille, hood and bumper will complete the changes up front and new taillights and a freshened bumper around back.    

The team is expecting the updated Mercedes E-Class to officially debut within the next year.

future vehicles, spy photos, car spy shots, Mercedes E-Class

Brenda Priddy & Co.

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:26

future vehicles, spy photos, car spy shots, Mercedes E-Class

The team at Brenda Priddy & Co. did not expect to see an update this early, but here are some of the latest shots of the freshened version of the Mercedes E-Class.

Interior changes and engine updates are not currently available, but the pictures highlight visible modifications to the exterior; Priddy points out the new headlights that will mimic the next-generation C-Class. A slightly modified grille, hood and bumper will complete the changes up front and new taillights and a freshened bumper around back.    

The team is expecting the updated Mercedes E-Class to officially debut within the next year.

future vehicles, spy photos, car spy shots, Mercedes E-Class

Brenda Priddy & Co.

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:25
 

automobile trade show, auto show, automobile events, sema show
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on www.SEMAShow.com beginning Friday, May 25.

   
With five months to go before the opening of the 2012 SEMA Show, more than 1,800 exhibitors are selecting their spots for the world's premier specialty automotive trade Show through the Priority Space Selection process, beginning May 30.

A few days before the Priority Space Selection process, the floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on the SEMA Show website, www.SEMAShow.com, beginning Friday, May 25.

Compared to the same time period last year, exhibitors are committing to the Show earlier, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show's net square footage. Among the sections contributing to the growth include the Wheels & Accessories section with a 68% increase of exhibitors, the Tools & Equipment section with a 35% exhibitor increase, and the Racing & Performance section with a 16% increase.

"It's encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. "One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors."  

Other floor sections at the SEMA Show are Business Services, Collision Repair & Refinish, Global Tire Expo Powered by TIA, Hot Rod Alley, Mobile Electronics & Technology, Powersports & Utility Vehicles, Restoration Marketplace, Restyling & Car Care Accessories, and Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road.

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the "Buy A Booth" link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability.

The Priority Space Selection process runs from May 30 through June 22. Details about the 2012 SEMA Show, including information on how to attend and exhibit, are available at www.SEMAShow.com.
Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:25
 

automobile trade show, auto show, automobile events, sema show
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on www.SEMAShow.com beginning Friday, May 25.

   
With five months to go before the opening of the 2012 SEMA Show, more than 1,800 exhibitors are selecting their spots for the world's premier specialty automotive trade Show through the Priority Space Selection process, beginning May 30.

A few days before the Priority Space Selection process, the floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on the SEMA Show website, www.SEMAShow.com, beginning Friday, May 25.

Compared to the same time period last year, exhibitors are committing to the Show earlier, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show's net square footage. Among the sections contributing to the growth include the Wheels & Accessories section with a 68% increase of exhibitors, the Tools & Equipment section with a 35% exhibitor increase, and the Racing & Performance section with a 16% increase.

"It's encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. "One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors."  

Other floor sections at the SEMA Show are Business Services, Collision Repair & Refinish, Global Tire Expo Powered by TIA, Hot Rod Alley, Mobile Electronics & Technology, Powersports & Utility Vehicles, Restoration Marketplace, Restyling & Car Care Accessories, and Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road.

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the "Buy A Booth" link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability.

The Priority Space Selection process runs from May 30 through June 22. Details about the 2012 SEMA Show, including information on how to attend and exhibit, are available at www.SEMAShow.com.
Thu, 05/24/2012 - 14:08
The photo gallery located at www.semaphotos.com features thousands of pictures of products featured in the Show's New Products Showcase, vehicles on display and exhibiting companies from the 2011 SEMA Show. Each week in SEMA eNews, a new collection of vehicle photos is highlighted. In the spotlight this week are vehicles from Scion.

In addition to the vehicle photos, the product photos also include key details, such as product name, a brief description and exhibitor contact information.