NHRA: Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Heads to Atlanta
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:40

NEWS NUGGETS

nhra summit

WE’RE HEADED TO HOT-LANTA: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to Georgia for the seventh race of the season—the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. Defending winners are Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle). The NHRA is offering a limited number of NHRA Nitro Generation Fan Packs for the event, featuring a great day of fun and racing action for a family of four, including two adult and two child seats, preferred parking, four hot dogs, four small Coca-Colas and an event program. The NHRA Nitro Generation Fan Packs are available in limited quantities for each day of the event, with Friday priced at $82 and Saturday or Sunday at $114. The NHRA Nitro Generation Fan Packs must be purchased in advance. As always, fans will have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers as they’re granted an exclusive pit pass for the event. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.

force

BERNSTEIN AND FORCE TO BE INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME: The International Motorsports Hall of Fame announced that two NHRA greats, Kenny Bernstein and John Force, and NASCAR legend Richard Childress will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, Thursday, May 3, at Talladega Motor Speedway. Both NHRA legends will be inducted due to their success on the track and their contributions on and off the racetrack to the motorsports community.

FULL THROTTLE ENERGY DRINK JOINS FORCES WITH THE USO TO RECOGNIZE AMERICA’S TROOPS AND THEIR FAMILIES: Full Throttle Energy Drink and the USO share a common ground in helping hardworking families, which has led the organizations to join in an impactful partnership aimed to celebrate and honor the efforts of our country’s military heroes. The new collaboration will include custom USO-centric Full Throttle packaging and point-of-sale materials, co-branded traditional and digital media and USO integration and experiential interactivity at Full Throttle’s NHRA event footprint. To help inaugurate the project, Full Throttle will make a $250,000 contribution to the USO in a check presentation during the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals on May 5 in Commerce, Georgia. Fittingly, “the Sarge,” as U.S. Army Top Fuel driver and seven-time world champion Tony Schumacher is affectionately known, will be on hand to help make the announcement.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA SOUTHERN NATIONALS, ATLANTA DRAGWAY, May 4–6: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to Georgia for the seventh race of the season—one of NHRA’s long-established events. Defending winners are Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and LE Tonglet (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com. For media credentials, contact Senior Communications Manager Scott Smith at ssmith@nhra.com.

DOLLAR GENERAL NHRA SUMMERNATIONALS, HEARTLAND PARK TOPEKA, May 18–20: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its eighth stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. Defending winners are Spencer Massey (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Shane Gray (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com. For media credentials, contact Director of Media Relations Anthony Vestal at avestal@nhra.com.

TOYOTA NHRA SUPERNATIONALS, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RACEWAY PARK, May 31–June 3: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its ninth stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points in the battles for the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. Defending winners are Spencer Massey (Top Fuel), Mike Neff (Funny Car), Allen Johnson (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 732-446-7800 or log on to RacewayPark.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Alex Baca at abaca@nhra.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID     INSIDE THE NUMBERS
nhra     nhra
SOMETIMES YOU NEED A LITTLE LUCK: Brandon Bernstein knows what it’s like to win races, but he hasn’t had that feeling since October 2009, and he wants it back for him and his MavTV team. As the NHRA heads to Atlanta Dragway, where Bernstein won in 2007, he is ready to have things start falling his way. “These guys know how to win. If I can drive the way I know how to drive, the way I’ve been driving my whole career, eventually things will fall into place for us. We should have more round-wins than we’ve earned so far, and we’ve come up on the wrong end of the races that are decided by thousandths of a second, but that will swing back our way. I have the feeling that once we break through, the win lights will come in bunches. We’re sure hoping that starts this weekend. We’re ready.”
   
6: JOHN FORCE RACING PERFECT SIX-FOR-SIX: John Force won the season-opener in Pomona, California, Mike Neff won last weekend in Houston and Robert Hight won the four races between, giving JFR a perfect score so far this season. Atlanta Dragway, the NHRA’s next stop, happens to be a track that has been extremely friendly to JFR; the team has collected 10 wins there in the past 19 seasons.

DID YOU KNOW…

nhra

PLAY BALL: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series drivers Ron Capps and Alexis DeJoria will be on center stage as part of pre-game ceremonies at Turner Field May 3, when the Atlanta Braves take on the Philadelphia Phillies. Capps, driver of the NAPA Auto Parts Dodge Charger, will be a guest of primary sponsor NAPA Auto Parts and throw out the ceremonial first pitch. DeJoria, driver of the Patron Tequila Funny Car, will then make the announcement to the players to take the field and join Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez at home plate for the presentation of the evening’s starting lineup.

SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala, Pinewood Drag Races to Benefit Children's Charities
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:38
gala
During the Installation Banquet's sit-down dinner, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in.
pinewood
2011 SEMA Person of the Year John Menzler officiated last year's Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors.
Hundreds of leaders and professionals from the specialty-equipment industry will gather to honor noteworthy icons and volunteers during the 2012 SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. The annual event serves as the industry's premier celebration where the newly elected Board of Directors are sworn in and SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced for the first time.

"While the products and customizing trends take center stage at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the SEMA Installation Banquet is a time to shine the light on the people and volunteers who make this industry a success," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "This is truly a unique event where we honor and thank our industry’s leaders.”

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. During the sit-down dinner that follows, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced, and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in. Both the new Hall of Fame members and new Board members will be announced in the near future.

Tickets and information are available at www.sema.org/galatix, or from Michelle Harris at michelleh@sema.org, 909/978-6684. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit two children's charities: Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp. Childhelp assists abused and neglected children by providing counseling and programs in a safe and secure living environment. Victory Junction Camp provides the camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses who otherwise would not be able to go to camp.

Also benefitting Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp is the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors. Taking place at 12:00 p.m. that same day, the event includes four categories. In addition to three levels in which individuals may build and submit pinewood cars, there is also a “Build It for Me” category where individuals may sponsor a car that was built by a child. Register online.
SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala, Pinewood Drag Races to Benefit Children's Charities
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:38
gala
During the Installation Banquet's sit-down dinner, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in.
pinewood
2011 SEMA Person of the Year John Menzler officiated last year's Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors.
Hundreds of leaders and professionals from the specialty-equipment industry will gather to honor noteworthy icons and volunteers during the 2012 SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. The annual event serves as the industry's premier celebration where the newly elected Board of Directors are sworn in and SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced for the first time.

"While the products and customizing trends take center stage at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the SEMA Installation Banquet is a time to shine the light on the people and volunteers who make this industry a success," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "This is truly a unique event where we honor and thank our industry’s leaders.”

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. During the sit-down dinner that follows, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced, and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in. Both the new Hall of Fame members and new Board members will be announced in the near future.

Tickets and information are available at www.sema.org/galatix, or from Michelle Harris at michelleh@sema.org, 909/978-6684. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit two children's charities: Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp. Childhelp assists abused and neglected children by providing counseling and programs in a safe and secure living environment. Victory Junction Camp provides the camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses who otherwise would not be able to go to camp.

Also benefitting Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp is the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors. Taking place at 12:00 p.m. that same day, the event includes four categories. In addition to three levels in which individuals may build and submit pinewood cars, there is also a “Build It for Me” category where individuals may sponsor a car that was built by a child. Register online.
SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala, Pinewood Drag Races to Benefit Children's Charities
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:38
gala
During the Installation Banquet's sit-down dinner, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in.
pinewood
2011 SEMA Person of the Year John Menzler officiated last year's Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors.
Hundreds of leaders and professionals from the specialty-equipment industry will gather to honor noteworthy icons and volunteers during the 2012 SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. The annual event serves as the industry's premier celebration where the newly elected Board of Directors are sworn in and SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced for the first time.

"While the products and customizing trends take center stage at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the SEMA Installation Banquet is a time to shine the light on the people and volunteers who make this industry a success," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "This is truly a unique event where we honor and thank our industry’s leaders.”

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. During the sit-down dinner that follows, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced, and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in. Both the new Hall of Fame members and new Board members will be announced in the near future.

Tickets and information are available at www.sema.org/galatix, or from Michelle Harris at michelleh@sema.org, 909/978-6684. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit two children's charities: Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp. Childhelp assists abused and neglected children by providing counseling and programs in a safe and secure living environment. Victory Junction Camp provides the camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses who otherwise would not be able to go to camp.

Also benefitting Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp is the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors. Taking place at 12:00 p.m. that same day, the event includes four categories. In addition to three levels in which individuals may build and submit pinewood cars, there is also a “Build It for Me” category where individuals may sponsor a car that was built by a child. Register online.
SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala, Pinewood Drag Races to Benefit Children's Charities
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:38
gala
During the Installation Banquet's sit-down dinner, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in.
pinewood
2011 SEMA Person of the Year John Menzler officiated last year's Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors.
Hundreds of leaders and professionals from the specialty-equipment industry will gather to honor noteworthy icons and volunteers during the 2012 SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. The annual event serves as the industry's premier celebration where the newly elected Board of Directors are sworn in and SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced for the first time.

"While the products and customizing trends take center stage at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the SEMA Installation Banquet is a time to shine the light on the people and volunteers who make this industry a success," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "This is truly a unique event where we honor and thank our industry’s leaders.”

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. During the sit-down dinner that follows, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced, and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in. Both the new Hall of Fame members and new Board members will be announced in the near future.

Tickets and information are available at www.sema.org/galatix, or from Michelle Harris at michelleh@sema.org, 909/978-6684. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit two children's charities: Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp. Childhelp assists abused and neglected children by providing counseling and programs in a safe and secure living environment. Victory Junction Camp provides the camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses who otherwise would not be able to go to camp.

Also benefitting Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp is the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors. Taking place at 12:00 p.m. that same day, the event includes four categories. In addition to three levels in which individuals may build and submit pinewood cars, there is also a “Build It for Me” category where individuals may sponsor a car that was built by a child. Register online.
SEMA Heritage: Dean Jeffries
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:29

SEMA News—May 2012

HERITAGE
By Drew Hardin
Photo Courtesy of the Petersen Archives

Unsung

It was in 1963 that Jeffries hand-fashioned the Mantaray, a sleek, asymmetrical, bubble-topped styling statement that did, indeed, catapult him into the big leagues of car building.
In May 1963, Petersen Publishing Company’s Dick Day shot an entire roll of film as Dean Jeffries crawled around—and over—a horseless carriage, pinstriping brush in hand. As far as we know, none of these photos ever made it into any of Petersen’s magazines, but they captured the prolific Jeffries at a pivotal point in his career.

By the early 1960s, Jeffries had made a name for himself as a custom painter and pinstriper. He learned the delicate art of striping by observing Ken “Von Dutch” Howard, and he shared shop space for a number of years with George “King of the Kustomizers” Barris, where his handiwork was applied to a number of famous hot rods, including Barris’ Ala Kart roadster pickup and the blue ’32 Ford that appeared on the cover of the Beach Boys’ “Little Deuce Coupe” album. It was Jeffries who painted the numbers and “Little Bastard” name on James Dean’s ill-fated Porsche 550 Spyder. Jeffries also helped Carroll Shelby promote his first Cobra by painting—and repainting—the prototype car in different colors to make it seem like Shelby had several of the hot sports cars.

Jeffries’ artistic talents weren’t limited to California hot rods and sports cars. A longtime fan of the Indianapolis 500, he striped and painted Indy roadsters prior to the race for years. At one point in the early ‘60s, Jeffries said that he painted 21 of the 33 cars on the Indy grid, and his race-car paint work garnered national attention when he appeared on the cover of the June 1961 issue of Hot Rod magazine lettering A.J. Foyt’s roadster.

But right around the time of Dick Day’s photo session, Jeffries was laying the groundwork for a career change. He was eager to do more than just paint a car; he wanted to create one, a groundbreaking custom car that would elevate him to the stature of Barris and other well-known builders.

It was in 1963 that Jeffries hand-fashioned the Mantaray, a sleek, asymmetrical, bubble-topped styling statement that did, indeed, catapult him into the big leagues of car building. Movie and TV studios took notice, and Jeffries would go on to build the Monkeemobile, the Green Hornet’s Black Beauty and many, many more.

Jeffries was never the public-relations master that Barris was, never blew his own horn about his work, even when others took credit for it. So back then, and even now to some degree, he’s something of an unsung hero among the influential painters and customizers of the ‘60s, despite appearing on magazine covers and in photoshoots like Day’s.

SEMA Heritage: Dean Jeffries
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:29

SEMA News—May 2012

HERITAGE
By Drew Hardin
Photo Courtesy of the Petersen Archives

Unsung

It was in 1963 that Jeffries hand-fashioned the Mantaray, a sleek, asymmetrical, bubble-topped styling statement that did, indeed, catapult him into the big leagues of car building.
In May 1963, Petersen Publishing Company’s Dick Day shot an entire roll of film as Dean Jeffries crawled around—and over—a horseless carriage, pinstriping brush in hand. As far as we know, none of these photos ever made it into any of Petersen’s magazines, but they captured the prolific Jeffries at a pivotal point in his career.

By the early 1960s, Jeffries had made a name for himself as a custom painter and pinstriper. He learned the delicate art of striping by observing Ken “Von Dutch” Howard, and he shared shop space for a number of years with George “King of the Kustomizers” Barris, where his handiwork was applied to a number of famous hot rods, including Barris’ Ala Kart roadster pickup and the blue ’32 Ford that appeared on the cover of the Beach Boys’ “Little Deuce Coupe” album. It was Jeffries who painted the numbers and “Little Bastard” name on James Dean’s ill-fated Porsche 550 Spyder. Jeffries also helped Carroll Shelby promote his first Cobra by painting—and repainting—the prototype car in different colors to make it seem like Shelby had several of the hot sports cars.

Jeffries’ artistic talents weren’t limited to California hot rods and sports cars. A longtime fan of the Indianapolis 500, he striped and painted Indy roadsters prior to the race for years. At one point in the early ‘60s, Jeffries said that he painted 21 of the 33 cars on the Indy grid, and his race-car paint work garnered national attention when he appeared on the cover of the June 1961 issue of Hot Rod magazine lettering A.J. Foyt’s roadster.

But right around the time of Dick Day’s photo session, Jeffries was laying the groundwork for a career change. He was eager to do more than just paint a car; he wanted to create one, a groundbreaking custom car that would elevate him to the stature of Barris and other well-known builders.

It was in 1963 that Jeffries hand-fashioned the Mantaray, a sleek, asymmetrical, bubble-topped styling statement that did, indeed, catapult him into the big leagues of car building. Movie and TV studios took notice, and Jeffries would go on to build the Monkeemobile, the Green Hornet’s Black Beauty and many, many more.

Jeffries was never the public-relations master that Barris was, never blew his own horn about his work, even when others took credit for it. So back then, and even now to some degree, he’s something of an unsung hero among the influential painters and customizers of the ‘60s, despite appearing on magazine covers and in photoshoots like Day’s.

Specialty-Equipment Opportunities: Jeep Sales Rise in China and Russia
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:16

SEMA News—May 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Alysha Web

Global Jeep Appeal in Two Big Emerging Markets

Opportunity for U.S. Specialty-Equipment Manufacturers in China and Russia

Aftermarket Business, Aftermarket Research, Automotive Accessories Research, Automotive Industry Research, Offroad Business, Offroad Industry
Off roading is currently quite popular in China with many Jeep owners among the avid enthusiasts. Photo Courtesy of To Jeep Racing
Chrysler’s Jeep brand has seen a resurgence in recent years, winning awards that range from the Grand Cherokee’s 2011 Urban Truck of the Year to the Wrangler’s 2012 Four Wheeler of the Year. Its popularity has also blossomed in emerging markets. According to Chrysler Group LLC, sales of Jeep-brand vehicles in China in 2011 rose 64% compared to the previous year, climbing to 38,373 units. Sales also exploded in Russia, rising 85% to 2,327 units. Here’s a look at some of the particulars in those markets.

China

“Chinese consumers practically worship prestigious brand names, and Jeep still carries a certain swagger in the People’s Republic of China,” wrote Mike Dunne, president of the Dunne & Co. consultancy, in Automotive News.

Chrysler currently sells the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass and Patriot models in China. All are imported, which boosts the price considerably because of an import tax. The Compass was the best-selling model in 2011.

In 2012, Chrysler plans to add the Grand Cherokee Spring Special, Wrangler Arctic and a Wrangler special to China. Designed in the U.S., the special will be unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show in April.

“We have a robust plan to keep expanding Jeep’s portfolio in China,” said a spokesperson for Jeep in China.

That portfolio will likely soon include locally produced models. Chrysler owner Fiat SpA formed a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. in 2009. The joint venture is currently building a plant in Changsha, located in central China’s Hunan province. The plant, which should be operational in a few months, will have a capacity of 500,000 units, according to Chrysler sources.

Local production of the Compass small SUV and Grand Cherokee is being discussed, according to Chrysler sources, but no decisions have been reached. One problem, the sources said, is that Fiat also wants to produce Fiat models in the Changsha plant. And another problem is that China’s central government recently made it more difficult for new foreign automakers to get permission to produce in China. Mike Manley, CEO of the Jeep brand, has said that Jeep may start local production in China in 2013 or 2014.

Chrysler aggressively markets the Jeep brand in China. The campaign includes hosting an “Ultimate Journey” road trip to Burma in 2011 and “Camp Jeep” events in rugged areas of China. Jeep dealers in China also organized the on- and off-line Jeep Experience Center, where Jeep fans can meet and organize events. Hundreds of Jeep owners participate annually in those events, Chrysler said.

The Jeep brand probably has the highest customization rate among SUVs in China, according to Yale Zhang, a Grand Cherokee owner and president of the Shanghai-based consultancy Automotive Foresight. Popular customization includes lighting, bumpers, roof racks and radios, said Zhang, who noted that typical Jeep owners in China are male and dream of off-road adventures more than purchasers of other brands of SUVs.

Russia

Aftermarket Business, Aftermarket Research, Automotive Accessories Research, Automotive Industry Research, Offroad Business, Offroad Industry
Currently, Chrysler sells the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass, and Patriot models in China, and plans to add the Grand Cherokee Spring Special, Wrangler Arctic, and a Wrangler special to the lineup later this year. While all of these models are imported, Mike Manley, CEO of the Jeep brand, has said Jeep may start local production in China in 2013 or 2014. Photo Courtesy of To Jeep Racing
Prestige is a big selling point for the Jeep brand in Russia, as is its ability to navigate rough and snowy roads, said Tatiana Hristova, a Moscow-based senior analyst at IHS Automotive.

“Jeep is one of the image brands in Russia,” she said. “Jeep stands for safe vehicles that are appropriate for Russian roads and have an attractive design.”

The Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Wrangler and Compass are currently sold in Russia. All are imports.

In late February of this year, Fiat signed a letter of intent with Russia’s Sberbank to provide financing for and take a minority equity stake in a joint venture to produce Jeeps in Russia. Initial capacity will be 120,000 units, according to a Fiat press release. There was no news on what models will be produced.

Binding agreements will be finalized in the first half of 2012, said Fiat. That won’t be a moment too soon. According to Hristova, competition in the SUV segment is heating up in Russia.

A typical Russian Jeep owner is a successful male businessman between the ages of 30 and 50, said Hristova. But he is probably not dreaming of off-road adventures so much as of finding a parking spot in Moscow. “I have a Jeep; I park where I want,” is a typical joke among Jeep drivers, she said. The Jeep brand is also popular among Russia’s wealthy “gilded youth” because of its solid look, she added.

Jeep owners in Russia tend to buy the most premium accessory package, according to Hristova. A journalist at Maxi Tuning Russia told SEMA that wheels are often customized, and Hristova said that four-wheel drive is especially important for Jeep in Russia.

“Without it, only the image will be the key selling point,” she said.

Specialty-Equipment Opportunities: Jeep Sales Rise in China and Russia
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:16

SEMA News—May 2012

INTERNATIONAL
By Alysha Web

Global Jeep Appeal in Two Big Emerging Markets

Opportunity for U.S. Specialty-Equipment Manufacturers in China and Russia

Aftermarket Business, Aftermarket Research, Automotive Accessories Research, Automotive Industry Research, Offroad Business, Offroad Industry
Off roading is currently quite popular in China with many Jeep owners among the avid enthusiasts. Photo Courtesy of To Jeep Racing
Chrysler’s Jeep brand has seen a resurgence in recent years, winning awards that range from the Grand Cherokee’s 2011 Urban Truck of the Year to the Wrangler’s 2012 Four Wheeler of the Year. Its popularity has also blossomed in emerging markets. According to Chrysler Group LLC, sales of Jeep-brand vehicles in China in 2011 rose 64% compared to the previous year, climbing to 38,373 units. Sales also exploded in Russia, rising 85% to 2,327 units. Here’s a look at some of the particulars in those markets.

China

“Chinese consumers practically worship prestigious brand names, and Jeep still carries a certain swagger in the People’s Republic of China,” wrote Mike Dunne, president of the Dunne & Co. consultancy, in Automotive News.

Chrysler currently sells the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass and Patriot models in China. All are imported, which boosts the price considerably because of an import tax. The Compass was the best-selling model in 2011.

In 2012, Chrysler plans to add the Grand Cherokee Spring Special, Wrangler Arctic and a Wrangler special to China. Designed in the U.S., the special will be unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show in April.

“We have a robust plan to keep expanding Jeep’s portfolio in China,” said a spokesperson for Jeep in China.

That portfolio will likely soon include locally produced models. Chrysler owner Fiat SpA formed a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. in 2009. The joint venture is currently building a plant in Changsha, located in central China’s Hunan province. The plant, which should be operational in a few months, will have a capacity of 500,000 units, according to Chrysler sources.

Local production of the Compass small SUV and Grand Cherokee is being discussed, according to Chrysler sources, but no decisions have been reached. One problem, the sources said, is that Fiat also wants to produce Fiat models in the Changsha plant. And another problem is that China’s central government recently made it more difficult for new foreign automakers to get permission to produce in China. Mike Manley, CEO of the Jeep brand, has said that Jeep may start local production in China in 2013 or 2014.

Chrysler aggressively markets the Jeep brand in China. The campaign includes hosting an “Ultimate Journey” road trip to Burma in 2011 and “Camp Jeep” events in rugged areas of China. Jeep dealers in China also organized the on- and off-line Jeep Experience Center, where Jeep fans can meet and organize events. Hundreds of Jeep owners participate annually in those events, Chrysler said.

The Jeep brand probably has the highest customization rate among SUVs in China, according to Yale Zhang, a Grand Cherokee owner and president of the Shanghai-based consultancy Automotive Foresight. Popular customization includes lighting, bumpers, roof racks and radios, said Zhang, who noted that typical Jeep owners in China are male and dream of off-road adventures more than purchasers of other brands of SUVs.

Russia

Aftermarket Business, Aftermarket Research, Automotive Accessories Research, Automotive Industry Research, Offroad Business, Offroad Industry
Currently, Chrysler sells the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass, and Patriot models in China, and plans to add the Grand Cherokee Spring Special, Wrangler Arctic, and a Wrangler special to the lineup later this year. While all of these models are imported, Mike Manley, CEO of the Jeep brand, has said Jeep may start local production in China in 2013 or 2014. Photo Courtesy of To Jeep Racing
Prestige is a big selling point for the Jeep brand in Russia, as is its ability to navigate rough and snowy roads, said Tatiana Hristova, a Moscow-based senior analyst at IHS Automotive.

“Jeep is one of the image brands in Russia,” she said. “Jeep stands for safe vehicles that are appropriate for Russian roads and have an attractive design.”

The Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Wrangler and Compass are currently sold in Russia. All are imports.

In late February of this year, Fiat signed a letter of intent with Russia’s Sberbank to provide financing for and take a minority equity stake in a joint venture to produce Jeeps in Russia. Initial capacity will be 120,000 units, according to a Fiat press release. There was no news on what models will be produced.

Binding agreements will be finalized in the first half of 2012, said Fiat. That won’t be a moment too soon. According to Hristova, competition in the SUV segment is heating up in Russia.

A typical Russian Jeep owner is a successful male businessman between the ages of 30 and 50, said Hristova. But he is probably not dreaming of off-road adventures so much as of finding a parking spot in Moscow. “I have a Jeep; I park where I want,” is a typical joke among Jeep drivers, she said. The Jeep brand is also popular among Russia’s wealthy “gilded youth” because of its solid look, she added.

Jeep owners in Russia tend to buy the most premium accessory package, according to Hristova. A journalist at Maxi Tuning Russia told SEMA that wheels are often customized, and Hristova said that four-wheel drive is especially important for Jeep in Russia.

“Without it, only the image will be the key selling point,” she said.

YEN Member Insight: Matt D’Andria on Futurism in the Automotive Aftermarket
Thu, 05/03/2012 - 14:05
  dandria
  Matt D’Andria

If you have spent any significant time at a SEMA event or media gathering, chances are you have either met Matt D’Andria or seen his work. The 36-year-old Phoenix, Arizona, native moved to Southern California years ago to be closer to the automotive aftermarket and has been involved in dozens of digital media projects, from helping top automakers develop a digital footprint, to co-hosting Adam Carolla’s popular “CarCast” podcast and launching his latest venture as CEO of a unique online automotive community called Motorator.com.

D’Andria was inducted into the gearhead lifestyle early, helping his father restore a Fiat Spider when he was just five years old. He “helped” his dad by hitting the freshly restored sports car with a toy hammer. At 15, Matt restored a ’65 Mustang with his brother, buying parts with money earned from a job at the local auto parts store. Eventually, D’Andria was able to combine his mutual love of technology and cars in college, where he and a friend created a tech firm and worked on a variety of high-profile automotive projects.

Today, D’Andria continues to push the boundaries of content marketing in the automotive space, connecting enthusiasts with manufacturers through digital media. We sat down with D’Andria to learn more about how automotive aftermarket companies can best take advantage of emerging technologies.

When/how did you decide to merge your experience in the dot-com world with your passion for the aftermarket?

In 1995, at 19 years old, I raised some money, quit school and started a web development company with my childhood friend, Adam Pisoni. Yahoo, at the time, was still just a directory at Stanford University and Netscape was making waves as the first web browser to support images. We learned how to work with the web—which was new at the time —and built technology solutions for Honda, Nissan, Toyota, Kia, and Clarion Car Audio. We also built websites for video games and dot-coms, including Resident Evil, Street Fighter, The Simpsons, eToys.com and Stamps.com. I wanted to start a new company and I spent all my money on cars, so I decided to build something that would allow me to work with my friends in the technology and automotive industries. I started writing a car blog in 2007 as a hobby and things grew from there.

How do you feel digital media is changing our industry?

Digital media is a powerful medium that our industry is just starting to embrace. We can attract, inform and entertain customers like never before. We can create and control our own content, and we can get in front of customers in so many ways. Installation videos and downloadable manuals on smart phones can help customers install parts. Blogs, photos and online product reviews help consumers decide which products to buy. In fact, 80% of all online purchases of $500 or more are influenced by consumers’ reviews. Don’t discount the entertainment factor, either. You may be a manufacturer, but all people, even car guys, love to browse the web for cool ideas, products, etc. Create some fun, entertaining online media and it will lead to new sales.

What is CarCast and how did you get involved with Adam Carolla?

"CarCast" is a podcast and Internet video show hosted by comedian Adam Carolla ("The Adam Carolla Show," "The Car Show," "Loveline," "The Man Show"). "CarCast" is like talk radio, but on the Internet. It’s just two guys chatting about all aspects of the industry, but with Adam’s edgy sense of humor. There’s no script and it’s uncensored, which certainly allows us to have some fun. The videos are great, too and add a dynamic that traditional radio can’t. "CarCast" regularly features automotive industry guests, such as Jay Leno, Vic Edelbrock, Chip Foose, John Hotchkis, Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top, Michael Anthony from Van Halen and more. Adam and Sandy Ganz created "CarCast" about three years ago. Sandy is an incredible engineer I met working at a comparison-shopping website and he brought me in to help produce the show. I became Adam’s co-host in 2011, and it’s been a lot of fun. Adam is a talent and a true car guy. He has a great collection of about 25 cars, including three of Paul Newman’s race cars.

What roles do social media and content marketing play in the aftermarket?

More than 90% of people online in the U.S. use social media and nearly 25% of their time is spent on social networks. Furthermore, social media users are the best consumers to target. They are extremely influential to others and they are the biggest online spenders. So, for every social media user that you convert to a customer, they potentially become a powerful marketer for you as well. This is the strategy behind Motorator—build a community of like-minded enthusiasts and give them the tools to socially market to each other. Every manufacturer and vendor in our industry should have a social media person in-house or hire a firm to represent their company full-time. Small business owners who can’t afford to hire someone should learn how to utilize social media on their own. At Motorator, I personally manage all our social media.

Tell us more about Motorator.com—what are your short- and long-term goals?

Motorator.com is a community dedicated to automotive performance enthusiasts. Our short-term goal was to create a hub where anyone can share their favorite automotive videos, seek and offer tech help and research the latest aftermarket parts. Our blog, for example, is a virtual showcase of more than 600 of the coolest new products to hit the market in the past couple of years. For the long-term, we’re developing the first community-driven shopping destination for performance enthusiasts. As a guy who loves tweaking my own cars, I grew frustrated knowing that there was no easy way for me to buy aftermarket products online while seeking advice from like-minded individuals on which parts best match my project.

Motorator’s approach to solving this problem is to combine online social networking with a comparison-shopping marketplace. Think of us as Facebook meets Amazon for gearheads. As a social destination, enthusiasts will be able to research the best products, get tech help, watch installation or product videos and chat with others who may already own the product. This community will be integrated into our marketplace where enthusiasts can find, compare, recommend and buy any part. We’re going to change the way enthusiasts find and purchase aftermarket products.

Motorator is designed to support manufacturers, vendors and enthusiasts. Any vendor will be able to list their products on our site and compete on the same level as everyone else. You don’t even need a website of your own. We’ll provide our shopping cart technology. When an enthusiast finds a product they want, they will see a list of vendors who sell it, can choose based on price or rating and add it to their cart. They can continue shopping from other vendors or checkout at any time.

What is your opinion on the youth market—are young people still interested in cars? How do companies connect with them?

What the aftermarket needs to worry about is not teens’ lack of interest in cars, but competition for their money from the tech sector and the fact that social media is reducing their reliance on transportation in general. Teens communicate and are entertained online and through mobile devices, and this significantly diminishes the need to physically meet. Furthermore, the gadgets of today are expensive. When I was 16, I would have never considered spending $400 on an iPad or $200 on a phone, but today those items are a necessity. This is the key issue for the aftermarket to overcome. Our goal should be making vehicles a part of teens’ social lives again. We can’t just market speed parts to teens and tell them they’re cool; we need to market cars as a social networking tool and a cool way to spend their time/money.

For someone who hasn’t been in the aftermarket long, you seem to know everybody. How did you make so many connections?

“This is the kid, he calls me 59 days in a row, wants to be a player. There ought to be a picture of you in the dictionary under persistence.” – Gordon Gekko in Wall Street

That quote from the movie Wall Street always makes me laugh, but it’s largely how I do things. When I came up with the idea for Motorator, I found SEMA and became a member. A month later, I was at the SEMA Show. I walked up to everyone I could find and said, “Hi, I’m Matt and I’m going to change this industry with my new company.” One guy I met was Dr. Jamie Meyer from GM Performance Parts. He had no idea who I was and had no reason to talk to me, but he just welcomed me to the industry and maybe spent 20 minutes answering all my questions. Unfortunately for him, I now have his cell phone number and bug him all the time. Sorry Doc. That said, to me this is a critical component to networking and new business success—don’t be shy. Talk to everyone, be outgoing and actually listen when people offer advice. Those connections will serve you well long-term.

You’ve been involved in several startups. What advice would you give someone chasing a new idea?

Don’t do it; get a real job! I’m kidding, of course. I love starting companies and I wouldn’t discourage anyone from chasing their dream. I typically take a very analytical approach to starting a business. First, identify the problem you plan to solve with your new venture. Do your research and develop your solution for that problem. If you think it’s never been done before, you’re wrong. Figure out how you are going to make your idea different and better. Then surround yourself with people who are smarter than you are. I’ve always hired to my own weaknesses. Then market the new idea as much as possible. Pitch it to everyone and anyone who will listen. If you make it past the first year, the chances of surviving grow exponentially.