Thu, 07/27/2023 - 10:56

By the SEMA D.C. office

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee approved legislation that would drastically reduce the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) budgets for FY 2024. If enacted into law, the bill would reduce DOI's budget by $677 million and EPA's budget by $4 billion when compared to FY 2023. The appropriations bill also includes SEMA-supportedICE amendments that prohibit the EPA from finalizing its proposed new federal emissions standards for motor vehicles model-years '27-'32, which are intended to dramatically subsidize sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and force the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to withdraw its proposed "Conservation and Landscape Health" rulemaking.

Representative Mike Simpson's (R-ID) amendment would prevent the EPA from finalizing its proposed emissions standards on light- and medium-duty vehicles, which the EPA estimates would lead to EVs making up two-thirds of all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States by 2032. Representative Dan Newhouse's (R-WA) amendment requires the BLM to withdraw its proposed "Conservation and Landscape Health" rule, which would allow the BLM to lease lands under new and vaguely defined conservation leases, incorporate new standards when evaluating traditional multiple-use decisions, expedite designations of new Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) and apply land health standards to all public lands. BLM's proposed rule undermines the Federal Land Policy and Management Act's multiple-use requirement for BLM lands as it would hinder access to public lands for recreation, forest management, energy and critical mineral development and grazing. SEMA has submitted comments opposing both the EPA and BLM rulemakings during the past month.

The House Appropriations Committee passed the bill by a margin of 33 to 27. The bill now awaits a vote on the floor of the House of Representatives. Congress must pass 13 appropriations bills for FY 2024 before September 30 or pass legislation to continue government funding at FY 2023 levels to avoid a government shutdown.

You can read more about SEMA's efforts to protect vehicle choice and motorized recreational access by visiting our advocacy page's ICE Bans and Motorized Recreation sections.

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

Thu, 07/27/2023 - 10:49

By the SEMA D.C. office

The SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC) hosted an extraordinary fundraisingPAC event that brought together more than 100 industry enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening of celebration and support. The event, held following the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala, was a resounding success, raising more than $40,000 in contributions.

Industry leaders and automotive aficionados united under one roof, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of the automotive aftermarket community. Attendees were treated to a delightful array of entertainment, networking opportunities and engaging conversations while supporting a cause close to their hearts.

Throughout the night, guests were inspired by Norris Marshall, PAC chair and founder and CEO of BluePrint Engines, as he shared how the SEMA PAC's advocacy efforts have made a direct and tangible impact on the industry. From preserving the right to modify vehicles to championing the freedom to access public lands for off-roading, SEMA's advocacy work highlights the significance of collective action.

The resounding success of this fundraiser was a testament to the power of industry unity and the dedication of those who believe in the importance of the SEMA PAC's mission. The $40,000 raised will fuel the PAC's advocacy efforts, enabling it to continue supporting candidates who champion the industry's unique interests and advocating for favorable legislation.

SEMA extends heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, donors and supporters whose generous contributions made this event a triumph. Together, we reaffirmed our commitment to shaping a vibrant future for the automotive aftermarket industry.

Thank you for being a part of this unforgettable journey. Here's to many more successful fundraisers ahead!

Thu, 07/27/2023 - 10:34

By Ashley Reyes

When it comes to business insurance, it's important for builders and shop owners to know what types of policies exist in order to choose the best coverage that fits their needs. Knowing how much coverage to get and what the insurance lingo means can help them better understand their policy and possible risks when in possession of a customer's vehicle.

During the recent SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) webinar, "What Builders Need to Know About Insurance Needs," Trent Campbell of American National Insurance and Franco Ganino of RevPro/Alliant shared common mistakes that shop owners make with their insurance coverage.

Watch highlights of the webinar below, moderated by Amy Fitzgerald of Cool Hand Customs, and watch the full session by logging into your SEMA.org account here.

You'll learn best practices for reviewing your shop's insurance policy, definitions of common insurance terms and questions to ask your insurance provider that can help save you money.

Thu, 07/27/2023 - 10:05

By Ashley Reyes

Electric-vehicle (EV) conversions are a growing opportunity in the automotiveEdu aftermarket. For shop owners, technicians and product developers who work on these builds, it's crucial to clearly understand the safety practices and various EV components involved, as they are critical parts of the process.

SEMA members are invited to the "Skateboard Platform for Electric Vehicles" webinar on Wednesday, August 9, at 11:00 a.m. PDT to learn about the complete process of an EV platform. Attendees will hear from Adam Roe, founder, CEO and product architect of Zero Labs Automotive, as he teaches the components associated with an electrified vehicle and EV conversion, as well as the component names, integration, hazards and diagnosis that are present when converting a gas-powered vehicle to electric. 

Participants will walk away with a thorough understanding of EV conversions from the ground up and engage with Roe as he addresses detailed questions from the audience. Register today!

Thu, 07/27/2023 - 09:53

By Ashley Reyes

Understanding the market, as well as who your customers are and how to connectReport with them, is imperative for driving business. Automotive aftermarket companies need reliable data and insights to make informed decisions as the industry evolves.

The "2023 SEMA Market Report" provides an overview of the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market in the United States to help SEMA members make better-informed decisions in the next year and beyond. Released in June 2023, the report includes findings on how much consumers spent, where they shopped for specialty-equipment parts and accessories in 2022, and automotive trends and economic factors influencing the market.  

"Understanding purchasing patterns and preferences can help businesses gain a competitive advantage," said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. "The report is the ultimate guide for businesses seeking to navigate the industry. With this report, they can refine their approach, identify new opportunities and carve out a distinctive plan for what they need their business to focus on." 

The report is free to SEMA members and includes sections on market sizing, consumer profiles, industry indicators and vehicle information. Learn what the data means and how it can help your business by downloading the report at sema.org/research

Thu, 07/27/2023 - 09:48
Tue, 07/25/2023 - 15:42

By Ashley Reyes

Networking is not only about trading information; it’s a necessary investment that can help industryWTC professionals build their reputation and establish long-term relationships with mutual benefits. 

SEMA members will want to attend the next Wheel Tire & Council (WTC) Coffee and Conversation networking event, where they will establish valuable business connections and discuss the state of the wheel and tire industry.

Taking place on Thursday, August 3, at 9:00 a.m. (PDT), the event will feature an open discussion about the latest trends, innovations and market dynamics happening in the wheel and tire aftermarket. Attendees will gain insight into opportunities and challenges that other businesses are experiencing, share their experiences, exchange ideas and build business relationships that can further their career or company goals.

Organizers will introduce a discussion topic to start the conversation, but attendees are encouraged to bring a talking point that impacts their business. Register now.

Questions can be directed to Nicole Bradle at nicoleb@sema.org.

Tue, 07/25/2023 - 15:21

By SEMA Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

CarTech 

Authors Wanted

CarTech, a leading automotive book publisher based in North Branch, Minnesota, is searching for additional writers to author books on a wide range of topics aimed at the automotive enthusiast. This is a freelance opportunity (work from home, on your schedule).

Derive Systems

Junior Customer Success Technician

Derive Systems--comprised of Bully Dog, SCT Performance and Derive VQ brands--seeks someone to provide solutions to customers to extract the maximum value from its products while ensuring customer loyalty and experience. This position can be based in Sanford, Florida (hybrid or fully remote) or Idaho (fully remote).

Canepa

Auto Salesperson

Scotts Valley, California-based Canepa is seeking a quality-minded, hardworking and dedicated individual who is highly professional and can work individually as well as part of a multifunctional team.

Yakima Products

Director-OEM

Yakima Products in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is looking to fill the position of director of OEM. The new hire will serve as the primary contact for Yakima's original equipment and genuine products development, planning and implementation efforts. The director of OEM will manage the cross-functional process of analyzing and evaluating new opportunities for the brand that align with the strategic short-, mid- and long-term growth goals.

For more information, including how to apply for jobs or to post job listings, visit the SEMA Career Center here.

Tue, 07/25/2023 - 15:18

By SEMA Editors

The 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas will provide attendees the unique opportunity to become electric-vehicle (EV) certified as part of a new SEMA Education initiative to create a more robust career- and professional-development program year-round.

On Monday, October 30, early arriving attendees and exhibitors can gain a new understanding of EV powertrains in an intimate, hands-on session capped at 20 participants during "Electric Vehicles 101 Presented by Legacy EV." Register here.

EV Headshots

Baily Soto of Legacy EV, Tom Santilli of Legacy EV and Greg Snowden of Revolt Systems.

"This course will provide a brand-agnostic and hands-on training opportunity for automotive techs to upskill themselves with a new understanding of EV powertrains. The one-day training will focus on the fundamental functions of electric powertrains and explore key high voltage safety practices," said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. "And, most notably, trainees who complete this course will receive an EV101 certification from Legacy EV."

Greg Snowden of Revolt Systems will join curriculum specialists Baily Soto and Tom Santilli of Legacy EV for the full-day program, detailed below.

Program Schedule:

9:00 a.m.-12:10 p.m. 

"Understanding EV Anatomy and Electrical Theory"

Learning how EVs work begins with understanding what is inside them and then the fundamentals of how they are powered. The topics will be covered during the first session, giving attendees an overview of the components that make up an EV, their functions and the electrical theory that gives them modern performance. Core ideas covered will include EV components and systems, Ohm's law, Watt's law and electric circuits using models, mathematics and computational thinking.

In this session, attendees will discover and understand:

  • What systems are needed to make a functional EV?
  • What are the functions and essential specifications of EV components?
  • How can we model the behavior of electricity in a wire with water and a hose?

12:10 p.m.-12:50 p.m.

Break 

12:50 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

"Applications With EV Specifications, EV Tooling, HV Safety"

Knowing how EV works is important, but being able to apply that knowledge is where the learning truly brings value. The second session will provide the fundamentals of high-voltage (HV) safety compliance and attendees will apply their knowledge from the morning session with safety best practices while working on real EV powertrains. Attendees will use EV tools and equipment, zero voltage verification, block diagrams and vehicle specifications.

In this session, attendees will discover and understand:

  • How can we use EV components specifications to determine and improve vehicle performance?
  • How do I use a digital multimeter to measure voltage, current, resistance and continuity in a HV circuit?
  • How might I arrange and wire EV components to fit an ICE vehicle and chassis?
  • How do I perform a certified HV disconnection procedure?
  • How do I verify that my system is de-energized or zero voltage verified (ZVV)?

The cost to attend "Electric Vehicles 101 presented by Legacy EV" is $600 per attendee. Legacy EV will allow participants to apply the session cost ($600) toward a full Legacy EV Certified Technician certification course. Register here.

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as cost-effective as possible for all. Register at SEMAShow.com/register for just $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

Tue, 07/25/2023 - 13:30

By SEMA Editors

Kahn Media--the full-service marketing agency based in Moorpark, California--recently added three exciting new clients to its roster: leading OEM Maserati North America, off-road racing series King of the Hammers and private motorsports club Circuit Florida. The new partnerships build upon the agency's growth and leadership in the automotive and luxury lifestyle industries as it enters the second half of 2023.

"It's exciting to work with innovative and ambitious brands, even more so as these three new clients are entering an era-defining chapter in their company histories," said Dan Kahn, founder and CEO of Kahn Media. 

Kahn Media will collaborate with Maserati North America to optimize its new-vehicle debuts and activations throughout Monterey Car Week, kicking off August 11 in Monterey, California, as well as curating earned-media placements with major automotive and business news outlets.

Kahn Media joins King of the Hammers as its official agency of record ahead of its 18th annual event in Johnson Valley, California, in the winter of 2024. Kahn Media will provide event support and coordinate a series of marketing and PR initiatives to further scale and extend its presence.

Scheduled to open in December of 2023, Kahn Media is working to drive awareness and member interest for Circuit Florida, a private motorsports club currently under construction in Auburndale, Florida. This unique real-estate development has a 1.7-mile road course designed by famed track designer Bob Barnard along with 75 luxury townhome-style condominiums, complete with air-conditioned garage spaces and easy track access.

DENSO Announces Independent Aftermarket Group Promotions

Long Beach, California-based DENSO Products and Services Americas--an affiliate of global mobility supplier DENSO Corp.--has announced promotions to its management team.

  • Michael Small has been promoted to the senior manager of national accounts sales & marketing. Small has been with DENSO for 11 years, most recently as manager of national accounts.
  • Kelly Dickens has been promoted to the manager of national accounts. Dickens has been with DENSO for six years, most recently as the senior account manager.
  • Lisa Jinn has been promoted to manager of category management. Jinn has been with DENSO for 16 years, most recently as the program manager of category management.
  • Otto Jun has been promoted to manager of heavy-duty OEM/OES. Jun has been with DENSO for 22 years, most recently as the senior account manager.
  • Andrew Shlatz has been promoted to manager of heavy-duty aftermarket sales. Shlatz has been with DENSO for seven years, most recently as the national sales manager.