By SEMA Editors

An entry price increase is approaching for the SEMA Show New Products Showcase, the world's largest display of new automotive aftermarket products and one of the best ways for exhibitors to generate leads and convert sales at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3. This year, the Showcase is relocating to the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center for expanded visibility. Accessible exclusively to SEMA Showgoers, the New Products Showcase is the top buyer and media destination and serves as a one-stop shop to easily discover thousands of the hottest products in the industry.

All SEMA Show exhibitors qualify to submit one New Products Showcase entry at no cost. Additional products can be entered for $95 before Friday, October 6. After that date, the first product entry is still free, with additional entries $150 each. There is no limit to the number of products a company can submit and no official close date for New Product Showcase entries (learn more and get involved at semashow.com/newproducts).

Each new product in the Showcase has a dedicated QR code that attendees can scan and learn more about the part and where the exhibitor is located, so getting involved is a great way to attract buyers to your booth. All New Products Showcase entries receive the added benefit of being featured in SEMA News, listed in the SEMA Show app, and possibly winning a Best New Product award, which will be presented in 18 categories, including electric vehicle (EV) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), during the official SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast on Tuesday, October 31.

Attendees looking to get a jump start on their 2023 SEMA Show plan can download the SEMA Show app at semashow.com/app to view new products, find exhibitors and events, get an overview of the floorplan, and much more.

By the SEMA D.C. Office

In response to strong opposition from SEMA and industry groups, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has announced a significant delay in the vote on a proposed Indirect Source Rule (ISR) aiming to impose volume caps on port activities, thereby limiting the import and export of goods from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. 

Originally scheduled for consideration this year, the vote has now been postponed by a period of six months to the second quarter of 2024. The delay in the vote signifies a willingness on the part of SCAQMD to reevaluate the ISR in light of the concerns raised by impacted stakeholders. 

In a joint letter addressed to the Los Angeles and Long Beach mayors, SEMA and a coalition representing various industry and labor organizations expressed their vehement opposition to the ISR. If implemented, this rule will cause substantial damage to the local and national economy by hampering the delivery of crucial goods, including auto parts.  

For more information, please get in touch with Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.  

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Garage is excited to announce the addition of a new service, Electric Vehicle (EV) Range Testing! 

Available to all SEMA and PRI members, SEMA Garage facilities initially built emissions test cells equipped with AVL chassis dynamometers for California Air Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order testing and certification. Starting with SEMA Garage Detroit, that emissions test cell is now capable of expanding into the battery electric vehicle (BEV) business.

EV range testing is becoming an essential testing capability in the automotive industry. Clients range from OEMs and low-volume replica vehicle manufacturers to aftermarket makers of performance-enhancing products seeking validation for their innovations. The SEMA Garage Detroit test cell has been equipped with the following equipment in order to perform testing according to the SAE J1634 specifications:

• AVL 4-Wheel Drive, 48-inch Roll, Emissions Chassis Dynamometer.
• AVL X-Meter.
• Clipper Creek CS-100, Level-2 EV Charger, with 19.2 kW variable output.

In addition, both SEMA Garage facilities have been equipped with multiple Level-1 EV chargers for general charging needs when an EV is on-site and when they host Measuring Session events for EVs. SEMA Garage Installation Centers also plan to introduce high-voltage tools and equipment designed to enhance the safety around EV product development, which will be available to SEMA members.

Visit the SEMA Garage EV webpage for updates.

For more information, contact SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology Luis Morales at luism@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Competition can be fierce in the fast-paced automotive aftermarket, so motorsports parts manufacturers who create quality media partnerships often gain an edge in connecting with customers.

Taking place January 30-February 1, 2024, at the Embassy Suites-Anaheim South in Southern California, the 2024 Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference is the ideal event for members to meet with media who can promote their brand to mass audiences.  

By registering to exhibit, manufacturers of racing and performance parts can schedule more than 40 private, 30-minute meetings with media reps during a span of three days. The meetings are held in private suites and provide a convenient way for manufacturers to share detailed information about their products or developments in their company. Attending media represent a range of outlets, from print, online, and video/television to radio, podcasts and social-media content creators. 

"Tailoring your media outreach is a great way to instill trust in your customers and makes them more likely to choose your brand over competitors," said MPMC Council Liason Marcy Yanus. "We're excited to host this iconic program that helps our members generate interest and excitement that can drive their business growth." 

Registration is open until September 30, 2023. Manufacturers can sign up to exhibit here, or send their questions to MPMC Council Liason Marcy Yanus at marcy@sema.org. 

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Andrew Hodgson, executive vice president at Timbren Industries, as the network's newest spotlight member.  

Get to know Hodgson in his interview with SEMA News below.

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received?  

Andrew Hodgson: Take care of people and have the best product available. This has shaped how we treat our customers and team members. It has driven us to keep testing and developing until we create the best suspension products on the market. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

AH: My grandfather, Arnold Heron, started Timbren, so I've grown up around the business and have a strong sense of family legacy, which definitely keeps me around. But more than that, it's the people in this industry and the relationships I've made over the past 14 years that keep me coming back for more. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

AH: In the winter, you can find me on a snowboard somewhere. In the summer, it's all about mountain biking or being by the lake with family. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?  

AH: Do my homework, know who I'm talking to and the nature of the meeting, and show up ready to be an active contributor, not just a bump-on-a-log. I do this when meeting with direct reports as well as anyone I report too. My goal is to be a value-add, not an energy-suck. Showing up ready and prepped is all the difference. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?  

AH: I'd love to sit down with Henry Ford and talk about everything from leadership and vision to designing the first Model T. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By the SEMA Washington D.C. office

New economic data released shows the significant impact that the specialty equipment aftermarket for motor vehicles has on America's economy--and just what it means for people across the country.

Amid the ongoing United Auto Workers strike at the Big Three car manufacturers, the report provides compelling data that the specialty automotive aftermarket is robust, despite the challenging economic environment.

SEMA commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates and based on 2023 U.S. economy data. SEMA represents more than 7,000 member businesses, the vast majority being small businesses, across the United States. The industry manufactures, sells and distributes aftermarket performance and accessory parts for passenger cars, trucks and 4-wheel off-road vehicles.

The "SEMA Economic Impact Report" shows the financial output and support to the U.S. economy of the specialty-equipment market.

There are several key findings in the report:

• Nationwide, the specialty-equipment industry supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.
• More than $104 billion worth of wages and benefits earned by American workers annually are supported by the industry.
• The industry accounts for more than $40 billion in taxes, including $24 billion in federal taxes and $16 billion in state and local taxes), which support the development of critical national and local infrastructure.
• The industry contributes more than $336 billion to the American economy annually.

These businesses employ more than twice the number of people as the U.S. aircraft industry and more people than the entire motion picture and video production industry. The aftermarket industry helps small businesses to grow, create new jobs and hire more workers, and builds partnerships that expand local economies across the United States.

This economic impact study complements the industry's annual market report on consumer trends. Consumers spent $52 billion on specialty automotive aftermarket products in 2022.

SEMA has released an interactive map that provides users with state-by-state, congressional and state-house and senate data in addition to the national numbers.

"We're extremely proud that our industry represents such a key part of America's economy, affecting any motorist who has upgraded their vehicle for a host of needs," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA's president and CEO. "SEMA's 7,000-plus members, which are primarily small businesses and the more than one million workers in the specialty aftermarket, are extraordinary contributors to making the United States and local economies stronger across the country. It's an industry that, one way or another, everyone has a stake in. It provides people with good-paying jobs, and our local, state and federal coffers with taxes that grow our country's economy. SEMA's ecosystem is a powerhouse economic engine driving positive change, innovation and opportunity to America's big cities and small towns, working families and small businesses. The specialty-equipment aftermarket has proven to be a vibrant industry that delivers economic support to all 50 states."

By the SEMA Washington D.C. office

New economic data released shows the significant impact that the specialty equipment aftermarket for motor vehicles has on America's economy--and just what it means for people across the country.

Amid the ongoing United Auto Workers strike at the Big Three car manufacturers, the report provides compelling data that the specialty automotive aftermarket is robust, despite the challenging economic environment.

SEMA commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates and based on 2023 U.S. economy data. SEMA represents more than 7,000 member businesses, the vast majority being small businesses, across the United States. The industry manufactures, sells and distributes aftermarket performance and accessory parts for passenger cars, trucks and 4-wheel off-road vehicles.

The "SEMA Economic Impact Report" shows the financial output and support to the U.S. economy of the specialty-equipment market.

There are several key findings in the report:

• Nationwide, the specialty-equipment industry supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.
• More than $104 billion worth of wages and benefits earned by American workers annually are supported by the industry.
• The industry accounts for more than $40 billion in taxes, including $24 billion in federal taxes and $16 billion in state and local taxes), which support the development of critical national and local infrastructure.
• The industry contributes more than $336 billion to the American economy annually.

These businesses employ more than twice the number of people as the U.S. aircraft industry and more people than the entire motion picture and video production industry. The aftermarket industry helps small businesses to grow, create new jobs and hire more workers, and builds partnerships that expand local economies across the United States.

This economic impact study complements the industry's annual market report on consumer trends. Consumers spent $52 billion on specialty automotive aftermarket products in 2022.

SEMA has released an interactive map that provides users with state-by-state, congressional and state-house and senate data in addition to the national numbers.

"We're extremely proud that our industry represents such a key part of America's economy, affecting any motorist who has upgraded their vehicle for a host of needs," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA's president and CEO. "SEMA's 7,000-plus members, which are primarily small businesses and the more than one million workers in the specialty aftermarket, are extraordinary contributors to making the United States and local economies stronger across the country. It's an industry that, one way or another, everyone has a stake in. It provides people with good-paying jobs, and our local, state and federal coffers with taxes that grow our country's economy. SEMA's ecosystem is a powerhouse economic engine driving positive change, innovation and opportunity to America's big cities and small towns, working families and small businesses. The specialty-equipment aftermarket has proven to be a vibrant industry that delivers economic support to all 50 states."

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has selected six member companies to compete in its PRO Cup Challenge at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31 to November 3 in Las Vegas.

The '22 Toyota Rav4 XLE built by Automotion Customs won the 2022 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge with an accessory package that is easy to replicate and ideal for new-car dealers to add mass consumer appeal to their inventory.

The PRO Cup Challenge, now in its fourth year, is a competition that pits restyler against restyler to develop an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that is profitable and easy to replicate. The competition promotes the accessorization of new cars and trucks by having the automotive restyled builds featured in the PRO Booth during the week of the SEMA Show. This year's competing companies and vehicles are: 

• Apex Customs: '24 Ford Mustang GT
• Auto Sunroof & Leather: '24 Subaru Crosstrek Premium
• RDM Builds: '23 Jeep Gladiator Willys
• Restylers Aftermarket Specialist: '23 GMC Sierra 1500
• Top Coverage LTD: '23 Ford Ranger XLT
• VIP Distributing: '23 GMC Yukon Denali XL

Attendees of the SEMA Show are encouraged to visit the PRO Booth--located in West Hall, Booth #50185--to view the vehicles on display. Here, attendees will get to witness the eye-catching vehicle packages that were built by PRO member companies, walk away with ideas to accessorize their own vehicles and be able to vote for their favorite build to win the PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award. 

Judges will determine the PRO Cup Challenge winning vehicle, a separate award, based on how easy the vehicle is to replicate and its estimated profit to automotive restyling companies and dealerships. 

Industry members are invited to attend the winner announcement of both awards during PRO's Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. in the LVCC West Hall, Booth #50185.

Each vehicle will be highlighted on PRO's social media leading up to the Show. Follow PRO social media to see what's in store: 

• Follow PRO on Facebook
• Follow PRO on Instagram
• Follow PRO on LinkedIn

By SEMA Editors

Business members attending the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, can enhance their experience and enjoy a range of exclusive perks by visiting one of three SEMA Business Member Lounges strategically located throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The member lounges, situated in the North Hall (Room N251), West Hall (Booth #58051), and Upper South Hall (Booth #34000), are designed to provide SEMA Business Members with a go-to stop for convenience and connection during the bustling SEMA Show. 

Here's why the lounges are a must-visit for member attendees:

1. Networking Hub: SEMA Business Members can host important meetings with industry leaders and business partners in the comfort of these exclusive lounges. It's the ideal setting for meaningful connections and discussions.
2. Tech and Connectivity: Need to stay connected? The lounges offer internet and printer services, ensuring that you're always equipped with the tools to stay productive during the event.
3. Charging Stations: Don't let your devices run out of juice while capturing all of the jaw-dropping automotive moments at the show. Charging stations are available to keep your gadgets powered up.
4. Complimentary Coffee: Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee to recharge yourself while exploring the SEMA Show.
5. On-Site Grab 'N' Go: Say goodbye to hunger pit-stops. The lounges offer delicious food options for purchase, allowing you to refuel before hitting the Show floor again.

The member lounges are the perfect place to unwind, connect with industry peers, and make the most of your SEMA Show experience.

If you're interested in securing a meeting room within one of these lounges or want to learn more about SEMA membership benefits, don't hesitate to contact the dedicated Membership Team at 909-610-2030 or via email at members@sema.org.

*Non-exhibiting manufacturers and members otherwise eligible to exhibit are not permitted to use the meeting rooms.

By SEMA Editors

Registration is open for the Society of Collision Repair Specialists' (SCRS) Repairer Driven Education (RDE) sessions during the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. RDE sessions at the SEMA Show take place Monday, October 30, through Thursday, November 2, in the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). 

Take advantage of discounted SCRS session pricing options available for those who register online before Friday, September 29 at bit.ly/RDE2023. 

Attendees who have secured their SEMA badges (more details on that, below) can purchase the SCRS Full Series Pass, which is currently discounted at $375 and increases to $425 after Friday, September 29. 

The SCRS Full Series Pass (FSP) presents the best value in accessing SCRS education and the greatest flexibility to Show attendees. It acts as an "all access" pass to all of the SCRS educational offerings during the SEMA Show, including entry to the IDEAS Collide Showcase (Monday, October 30), one regular session in each available RDE time slot (Tuesday, October 31 and Wednesday, November 1), all three sessions of the OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit (Thursday, November 2) and one ticket to the SCRS Sky Villa afterparty (Thursday, November 2 evening).  

To register for a SCRS FSP, click here. Note that the FSP does not include access to other paid courses or events not offered by SCRS. 

To explore the Repairer Driven Education track in greater depth or add sessions to your Show Planner, visit SCRS: Repairer Driven Education on the SEMA Show Planner. 

The 2023 Repairer Driven Education series is made possible with support from BASF, AirPro Diagnostics, Car-O-Liner, CCC Intelligent Solutions, Enterprise, Reliable Automotive Equipment Inc., Toyota Certified Collision Centers, AASP, AkzoNobel, Celette, Repairify, Spanesi and SEMA. 

For more information about SCRS or to join as a member, visit scrs.com or contact 877-841-0660 or info@scrs.com.

Register for the 2023 SEMA Show

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as cost-effective as possible for all. Registration is $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date. 

Registering early allows attendees to take advantage of the best rates and receive all the necessary information for planning their SEMA Show experience. Early registration also ensures that attendees will receive their badges in the mail before this year's event. 

Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register! And, it’s never too early to start your SEMA Show plan. Create a customized schedule, view the floor plan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app.