SEMA News—July 2020

NEW PRODUCTS

By Chad Simon

Restyling & Car Care Accessories

A Collection of Innovative Designs Found at the 2019 SEMA Show

The automotive car-care and restyling segments of the specialty-equipment industry have been benefiting from opportunities ranging from color-change vinyl wraps, instant-healing paint protection film, virtually clear IR tint, ceramic coatings, detail sprays and orbital polishing technology. However, companies have had to adapt to the new environment that includes social distancing, and requires adapting marketing and communications. Challenges include trying to reach new customers and evolving to meet car dealership processes in a digital form. The following pages highlight many of the new restyling and car-care products that were showcased at the 2019 SEMA Show.

“The car restyling industry has never been bigger or better. Customization is on top of every car enthusiast’s list of modifications. In our segment (vehicle wraps), we experience year-over-year growth within the industry and we don’t see it slowing anytime soon. Never before has it been easier and faster to change the look of your vehicle at a fraction of the cost of traditional paint.

Mutoh is still open for business supporting our customers and resellers, although 90% of our staff is working remotely from home practicing social distancing. The other 10% is our warehouse and shipping team members.

The biggest challenge we are facing is reaching new customers. Obviously a lot of businesses are slow right now, and making a large purchase is probably something many are hesitant to do. We are still shipping a lot of consumables to our customer base, and we are responding by keeping in contact with them, offering technical support, specials on equipment and parts and providing free webinar training.”—Ryan Arakaki, Product Marketing and Training Manager, Mutoh

“The automotive car care and restyling industry is growing faster than any other due to technological advancements within the automotive industry, ranging from color change vinyl wraps, instant-healing paint-protection film, virtually clear IR tint and ceramic coatings.

Vehicle modifications used to primarily consist of stereo upgrades and wheel changes. However, over the past five years, the appearance restyling industry is finding that vehicle owners are spending an exorbitant amount of money on these new services, which has led to massive market growth. With the power of social media, marketing and content creation, there is no telling where this industry could be headed over the next five years.” —Peter Diebitsch, CEO, Ceramic Pro

“We are in pivotal times, not just for manufacturers, but also for our restyling/wholesale/distributor partners. As car dealerships have been forced to evolve their selling patterns to accommodate the current situation, so have our customers. Pre COVID-19, restylers had much success in pre-loading for best presentation.

However, now that dealerships are relying heavily on their business development center to capture sales, our restyling customers now must adapt their processes to a very new ‘digital age’ of accessory presentation. It will be crucial for all businesses in the automotive industry to evaluate their business model to ensure it will survive this ‘new world’ that we now live in.”—Colby McLaughlin,  President, Trim Illusion Inc.

“The appearance chemical industry has never been more competitive. There are new, legitimate technologies being incorporated into products that have existed for many years. The integration of SiO2 chemistry into easy-to-use products, such as detail sprays, has had a profound effect by incorporating a protective element that extends the time between washes, while making the care of one’s paint easier and better. I also think this is a time of advancement in orbital polishing technology, where consumers are empowered to take control of their own advanced paint care, picking up a professional-grade tool and doing it themselves. Caring for your car is easier and safer than ever before.

During the COVID-19 situation, we have been able to remain open in both our Washington state and Indiana facilities. The majority of our office workers are remote, as are most companies.”—Nick Griot, Executive Vice President, Brand and Product Development, Griot’s Garage

View all of the Restyling & Care Car products featured in the 2019 SEMA Show New Products Showcase

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Air Cannon

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-AC-001

Adam’s Air Cannon is a new, dual-motor, forced-air dryer, ideal for drying an entire vehicle in a safe and efficient manner. This product cuts drying time significantly and allows for quieter operation. Adam’s Air Cannon delivers heated air in less than 30 seconds. The expanding and retracting hose takes up less space than with conventional air dryers.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Ceramic Black Trim Restorer

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-CBTR-1

Adam’s Ceramic Black Trim Restorer is a product designed to be a one-step process. With Adam’s Ceramic Black Trim Restorer, users are restoring and adding pigmentation back into faded, oxidized trim while adding ceramic-based protection in a single step.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Ceramic Glass Coating Windshield Kit

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-CGC-001

Adam’s Ceramic Glass Coating puts a professional-grade product in the hands of everyday consumers. It is a two-part ceramic coating system that is only for use on glass surfaces. This carefully applied system ensures the slickest finish and self-cleaning results when applied to contaminant-free, clean glass.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Ceramic Coating Wax

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-CCW

Adam’s Ceramic Coating Wax is packed with a ceramic coating in paste wax form. This new blend has a unique formulation of gloss agents and SiO2 content to allow for effective bonding and easy removal while leaving the finish with extremely hydrophobic results. Use this product as a standalone coating or top the current protection.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Cordless Swirl Killer 9mm Micro

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-SKM

Adam’s Polishes says that its Cordless Swirl Killer 9MM Micro is the perfect companion to its other polisher offerings while being specially designed to be economical and provide detailing freedom. This compact and wireless polishing tool allows a detailer to achieve a flawless finish without worrying about finding the nearest wall outlet or an extension cord.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Swirl Killer 15mm SK-Pro

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-SKP

Adam’s Swirl Killer SK-Pro is a new, fully engineered polishing machine developed from the ground up specifically for Adam’s and its customers. This new machine boasts a higher wattage, more rpm, and an LED light built into the polisher while remaining low vibration and with many ergonomic functions to keep it comfortable for use.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Ceramic Paint Coating With UV Glow Technology

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-CPC-UV

Adam’s Ceramic Paint Coating utilizes a patent-pending UV tracer technology to allow this newest formulation to glow under UV light. The UV tracer technology provides a
visibly stark contrast with the coated surface and demonstrates the coating’s whereabouts throughout application. The UV tracer is completely invisible until exposed to UV light.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Ceramic Trim & Headlight Coating Wipes

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-CTW-001

Adam’s Ceramic Trim & Headlight Coating Wipes are an innovative delivery method of applying ceramic protection to trim surfaces. This product is presaturated, providing a layer of ceramic protection over trim and headlight surfaces. Adam’s Polishes is now able to implement the effectiveness of a ceramic coating into the simplicity of a wipe.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Mega Foam

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-MF-16

Adam’s Mega Foam is a heavily concentrated formulation that provides the highest amount of suds and foam while avoiding water spots or sunspots. By creating maximum suds, it provides a thick pillow of wet lubrication that sits between the wash mitt and the paint. This ultra-slick foam significantly removes unwanted or left-behind dirt or grime.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Polish: Step 2

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-SP-16

Adam’s Polish: Step 2 is the second step in a new two-part polishing system. The water-based formulation features a diminishing blend of alumina oxides and polishing agents to cut light swirls and enhance the gloss in the finish. This formulation cycles down to a swirl- and mar-free finish with zero haze.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Compound: Step 1

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-SP-16

Adam’s Compound: Step 1 is part of a new two-step system and is an effective tool for removing heavy stains, swirl marks, buffer halos and heavy imperfections from a clearcoat. By spraying the product into the pad, the user is both priming the pad before polishing and using a minuscule amount instead of over-applying product to the pads.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Wheel & Tire Cleaner

866-965-0400
www.adamspolishes.com
PN: AP-WTC-16

Adam’s Wheel & Tire Cleaner effectively loosens contaminants on wheels and tires while leaving the surface completely bare and ready for dressing. This non-acid formula allows users to clean tire surfaces of old, caked-on tire dressings while being able to use the same product on wheel surfaces to clean off brake dust with ease.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Hybrid Polymer Spray Sealant

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: HSS367-01-002/16

Hybrid Polymer is a spray sealant that boasts an organic-inorganic composite polymer system. This highly versatile formulation applies carnauba wax emulsion along with silica film-forming resins and synthetic waxes—the best of both types of protection. Hybrid Polymer Spray Sealant can be applied in a variety of ways—wet or dry and spray or wipe.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Impressive Compound

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: UCP503-01-002/16

Impressive is a hyper cutting compound that finishes so expertly that it can be used as a one-step compound. This cost-effective formulation performs exceptionally on all types of pads using rotary or DA, correcting defects up to 1200 grit and finer. Impressive is body-shop safe, containing no traces of silicones, and is VOC- and REACH-compliant.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Convergent Three-in-One (Cut, Polish and Wax)

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: CNV367-01-002/16

Convergent is a modern silica-polish that compounds, polishes and waxes in a single step. Convergent contains a dual abrasive system that diminishes while polishing to rapidly remove scratches, swirls and other defects. This polish also contains silica film-forming resins and synthetic waxes to provide a durable layer of protection.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Jade Clear-Glass Coating Kit

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: JCC500-10-011

Jade Clear-Glass ceramic coating kit is a proprietary two-step glass coating system that applies semi-permanent ceramic coating protection to glass substrates. Application of this coating system garners highly hydrophobic and self-cleaning glass where water will repel at speeds as low as 30 mph. The coating applied will last a minimum of one year.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Jade Quartz 9H Ceramic Coating Sealed Wipe

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: JCC500-03-010

Jade Quartz 9H ceramic coating wipe is a premoistened, sealed towelette that allows for the application of a ceramic coating in a convenient, single-use wipe with no mess and no fuss. The premium wipes are available in a wide range of formulations, ranging from Jade Metal and Jade Trim & Headlight to Jade Ice or Ice Lite for paint and wheels.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
DA Correction Compound

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: DAC500-01-002/16

DA Correction is a compound that uses a dual abrasive technology to generate a very broad polishing action into a one-step system. This formulation was engineered for those who love to use a DA and boasts an optimized solvency for ideal lubrication and effortless wipe down. DA Correction is body-shop safe as well as VOC and REACH compliant.

Aero Detail Products
Aero Shield Flight Line

800-337-9274
www.aerodetailproducts.com

A recyclable aluminum pouch and bottle stand alongside a recyclable black box with a drawer opening to reveal a mirror-finish glass bottle, a matching applicator, Aero’s signature foam block with applicator towels, and a user guide—all with matching labels.

All-Fit Automotive
Lip Kit

619-500-3669
www.allfitautomotive.com
PN: LIPKIT

The All-Fit Lip Kit is a universal-fitting lip splitter known for its extreme durability and versatility. Built to withstand damage from curbs and scrapes while giving any vehicle a lowered, aggressive look, this product is not vehicle-specific and offers many years of scrape protection. Stand out while protecting an investment.

Adam’s Polishes—B&B Blending
Silica Waterless Wash and Wax Detailer

303-289-6320
www.bbblending.com
PN: SWW473-01-002/16

Silica Waterless Wash combines the effects of a rinse-free detailer and the durable protection of SiO2 technology. This formulation is a hybrid of a paint sealant and a waterless wash combined, yet it remains absolutely effortless to use. It is highly slick, incredibly glossy and extremely cost-effective. This product is a must-have in any arsenal.

Air Design
Jeep Front Bumper Guard

760-435-0095
www.airdesignusa.com
PN: JE05A31

Jeep bumper replacement dramatically reduces weight at the front. Manufactured with Air Design’s exclusive composite Aerospace-F1 Technology. No need to overhaul the suspension to compensate for extra weight. Synthetic reinforced construction never rusts. Superior aerodynamics and structural strength.

Aero Detail Products
Aero Shield Diamond Finish Line

800-337-9274
www.aerodetailproducts.com

A logoed low-profile black box with a drawer slides open to reveal a sleek, mirrored-glass bottle, a matching applicator, Aero’s signature foam block applicator with suede microfiber applicator towels, and a quad-fold user guide.

Aero Detail Products
Aero Shield Envy

800-337-9274
www.aerodetailproducts.com

A logoed low-profile black box with a drawer slides open to reveal a sleek, mirrored-glass bottle, a matching applicator, Aero’s signature foam block applicator with suede microfiber applicator towels, and a quad-fold user guide.

Air Design
Jeep High-Top Flat Fender Flares

760-435-0095
www.airdesignusa.com
PN: JE05A15

Made of the most advanced flexible heavy-duty engineering materials. UTV racing-inspired design. Significantly improves articulation and clearance with or without lift kits. SuperBolt technology. No-drill installation. Uses factory mounting points. Advanced, custom-designed inner fender liners come included with Air Design’s fender flares.

All-Fit Automotive
Rim Trim

619-500-3669
www.allfitautomotive.com
PN: RIMTRIM

All-Fit Rim Trim is an affordable way to make wheels pop. This patent-pending design serves as an initial defense layer for curb rash and can also help hide existing curb rash. Applies in minutes without removing the tires and does not damage the rim when removed.

AnzoUSA
‘18–’19 Ford F-150 LED Projector Headlight

909-590-8618
www.anzousa.com
PN: 111400

A ’18–’19 Ford F-150 full LED projector plank-style switchback headlight.

Biocide Systems
Auto Shocker ClO2 Odor Eliminator

877-792-4624
www.autoshocker.com
PN: 3213

ClO2 is a gas that can penetrate deeper and more effectively than other non-gas products. ClO2 molecules are attracted to negatively charged odor molecules like a magnet to iron, so it literally seeks them out and destroys them like a smart bomb. Guaranteed or money back.

All-Fit Automotive
Fender Flare Wedge Trim/Gasket

619-500-3669
www.allfitautomotive.com
PN: WEDGETRIM

This custom-designed and thinned-out T-version fender flare wedge trim is installed between an aftermarket fender flare and the fender itself to seal the flare. Made in the U.S.A. and includes preapplied 3M tape.

AutoMeter
2-in. Rollcage Gauge Mount

866-248-6356
www.autometer.com
PN: 48012

Limited space doesn’t have to mean limited visibility on what’s going on in a vehicle or a UTV. A 2-in. rollcage gauge mount is the perfect solution for those looking for a place to mount a 21/16-in. gauge in cramped, rollcage-equipped vehicles and UTVs.

Avery Dennison
Supreme Wrapping Film in New Colors

440-321-9825
www.graphics.averydennison.com

Reminiscent of natural coastal elements, the newest Avery Dennison Supreme Wrapping Film colors represent everything from a stunning sunset to a rocky shore. Introducing the 2019 Coastal Collection—a combination of satin, gloss and matte metallic finishes. The same great, reliable performance of Supreme Wrapping Film in five new colors.

Biocide Systems
RV Shocker ClO2 Odor Eliminator

877-792-4624
www.biocidesystems.com
PN: 3244

ClO2 is a gas that can penetrate deeper and more effectively than other non-gas products. ClO2 molecules are attracted to negatively charged odor molecules like a magnet to iron, so it literally seeks them out and destroys them like a smart bomb. Guaranteed or money back.

Amsoil Inc.
Upper Cylinder Lubricant

715-392-7101
www.amsoil.com
PN: UCLCN

Premium gasoline additive delivers more lubricity than the competition while battling ethanol-related corrosion. Designed for use with every tank of fuel.

Bishop Innovations
Hozeez Retail Display Box

781-264-5698
www.bishopinnovations.com

The Hozeez retail display box allows for convenient countertop or shelf display of three pairs of Hozeez. It has attractive and descriptive eye-catching point-of-sale advertising with application photos. The display box is included free in bulk cases of Hozeez. The retailer replenishes the display box from the bulk case inventory as product sells.

BuffPro
Polish & Protect Kit

800-699-4160
www.buffpro.com
PN: 80018006

BuffPro Polish & Protect kit polishes and protects a vehicle in one easy step. The kit includes one buffer axial/drum-style polisher, one polishing wool pad, and one 32-oz. bottle of all-in-one polishing compound with Nano Seal protection.

Car Mate USA/Razo
RA64 Carbon Dark Chrome 200G Weighted Shift Knob

310-533-1647
www.razo-usa.com
PN: RA64

This unique shift knob uses the genuine carbon fiber for superior durability. The product can be adjusted to 3 different heights for satisfying each individual’s driving preference and comfort to fit their driving style.

The Bracketeer
Universal Car Fire-Extinguisher Bracket

949-283-0738
www.thebracketeer.com
PN: UFEB1317/D

The Bracketeer universal car fire-extinguisher bracket provides a quick and secure solution to mount a fire extinguisher in most modern and classic pickups, vans and sport utilities. Compatible with Citroën, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Holden, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Ram, Renault, Toyota, Volkswagen and more. Installs in less than 15 min. without drilling.

California Dream/Restylers’ Choice
WrapGate

800-733-3316
www.restylerschoice.com
PN: RAZ-WG-150PRM

WrapGate covers the emblems, body lines and indented logos of the ’15–’20 F-150, providing a smooth, uninterrupted surface perfect for wrapping or lettering. WrapGate is available in a primed finish that can be painted to match or wrapped in any standard wrap film. The company can also prepaint in any factory color for a small up charge.

Car Mate USA/Razo
RA66 Carbon Dark Chrome 400G Weighted Shift Knob

310-533-1647
www.razo-usa.com
PN: RA66

This uniquely weighted shift knob uses genuine carbon fiber for superior durability. The product can be adjusted to three different heights for satisfying each individual’s driving preference and comfort to fit their driving style.

Braun Automotive
18-in. Power Woolie

800-645-4111
www.braunautomotive.brush.com
PN: PWRK18X

The wildly popular Power Woolie just got better with several new sizes, including a new 18-in. version. It’s sized to reach deep into wheel barrels and is said to be the most durable cleaning and polishing brush on the market. Can be used with anything from a fine polishing compound to caustic cleaning solutions. This brush is tough.

Car Mate USA/Razo
RA24 Aluminum Round 140G Weighted Shift Knob

310-533-1647
www.razo-usa.com
PN: RA24

This uniquely rounded shift knob provides comfort to the driver’s palm. This product is manufactured through the process of high-quality die casting.

CarCapsule USA
CF1 ShowCase

219-945-9493
www.carcapsule.com
PN: CF1

Carbon-fiber-look ShowCase. HD PVC 70mm, drive-in/drive-out access. High-power 190-cfm fan and washable charcoal filter keep dust, dirt and insects out while maintaining a pristine environment inside the Showcase for years to come. Customizable LED lights fastened by integrated Velcro strips. IntelliCharge battery backup system.

CFR Performance
Black Pearl Black-Chrome Edition Dress-Up Kit

909-947-7888
www.cfrperformance.com
PN: HZ-4399-BC-KIT

The new Black Pearl black-chrome edition is bringing back an old-school favorite. The richness of chrome and black together.

CarCapsule USA
Dual-Fan IntelliCharge

219-945-9493
www.carcapsule.com
PN: POWERDB2

Dual-bank battery charger with dual leads for use on outdoor CarCapsule products. Charges battery as well as a battery backup for the dual-fan panel used to inflate and circulate the air for the outdoor CarCapsule. IntelliCharge powers the fan panel up to 40 hours, depending on battery size. Automatic shut-off saves needed cranking power.

Chemical Guys
HydroSlick Ceramic Coating HyperWax

866-822-3670
www.chemicalguys.com
PN: WAC22916

HydroSlick is a true ceramic coating that provides unmatched protection, brilliant shine and optical clarity in an easy-to-apply ceramic gel. HydroSlick uses the latest in SiO2 gel-suspension technology to totally reengineer the makeup of a ceramic coating and reinvent it as an extremely user-friendly and durable coating that anyone can apply.

View all of the Restyling & Care Car products featured in the 2019 SEMA Show New Products Showcase

SEMA News—July 2020

REQUIRED READING

By Juan Torres

SEMA News—July 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 Plug-In Hybrid A curious C8 PHEV prototype was spotted with a rigged exhaust system that runs the exhaust through an exhaust flow analyzer tool. In addition, it has orange cabling sticking out from the front end along with a kill switch, and another kill switch is located on the rear quarter panel. (We’re told that the kill switches are there to stop power to the electric motors, which also signifies that the C8 PHEV should be AWD). The C8 PHEV is expected to be analogous to the current Stingray model, but with hybridized power. It’s currently unclear what the powertrain will look like, though we have been told to expect the electrified hardware to aid in performance rather than fuel economy. Expect a launch either in late 2020 or 2021.
’21 Ford Bronco Undisguised This prototype of the ’21 Ford Bronco Sport has a signature boxy design that features an upright front fascia with Bronco headlight clusters, with a round headlight joined by a horizontal element. The front fascia is clearly configured to maximize the approach angle, as clearly seen from the profile angle. The long and flat hood joins to blacked-out pillars. Meanwhile, the roof—complete with roof rails—has a slight step up behind the B-pillar area. There’s also that raised body line after the C-pillar, giving this baby Bronco a look reminiscent of older Land Rovers. Like the front, the rear end appears to be optimized for a capable departure angle. Gray 17-in. wheels with a double-spoke design round out the package.
Three-Row Grand Cherokee Jeep is set to get a number of three-row SUVs in the next few years, and the Grand Cherokee three-row seen here looks like it’ll be ready to join the truck-based Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. This model will likely be similar in size to the current Durango and compete head-on with the Highlander and Explorer. It’s unclear how off-road capability will be compromised by a longer rear overhang, but it’s expected that at least one variant will be “trail rated.” The new three-row will be based off the Alfa Giorgio platform and is set to receive both the current model’s 3.6L Pentastar V6 and a new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six hybrid. The Grand Cherokee will debut sometime in 2021.

SEMA News—July 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 Plug-In Hybrid A curious C8 PHEV prototype was spotted with a rigged exhaust system that runs the exhaust through an exhaust flow analyzer tool. In addition, it has orange cabling sticking out from the front end along with a kill switch, and another kill switch is located on the rear quarter panel. (We’re told that the kill switches are there to stop power to the electric motors, which also signifies that the C8 PHEV should be AWD). The C8 PHEV is expected to be analogous to the current Stingray model, but with hybridized power. It’s currently unclear what the powertrain will look like, though we have been told to expect the electrified hardware to aid in performance rather than fuel economy. Expect a launch either in late 2020 or 2021.
’21 Ford Bronco Undisguised This prototype of the ’21 Ford Bronco Sport has a signature boxy design that features an upright front fascia with Bronco headlight clusters, with a round headlight joined by a horizontal element. The front fascia is clearly configured to maximize the approach angle, as clearly seen from the profile angle. The long and flat hood joins to blacked-out pillars. Meanwhile, the roof—complete with roof rails—has a slight step up behind the B-pillar area. There’s also that raised body line after the C-pillar, giving this baby Bronco a look reminiscent of older Land Rovers. Like the front, the rear end appears to be optimized for a capable departure angle. Gray 17-in. wheels with a double-spoke design round out the package.
Three-Row Grand Cherokee Jeep is set to get a number of three-row SUVs in the next few years, and the Grand Cherokee three-row seen here looks like it’ll be ready to join the truck-based Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. This model will likely be similar in size to the current Durango and compete head-on with the Highlander and Explorer. It’s unclear how off-road capability will be compromised by a longer rear overhang, but it’s expected that at least one variant will be “trail rated.” The new three-row will be based off the Alfa Giorgio platform and is set to receive both the current model’s 3.6L Pentastar V6 and a new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six hybrid. The Grand Cherokee will debut sometime in 2021.

SEMA News—July 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 Plug-In Hybrid A curious C8 PHEV prototype was spotted with a rigged exhaust system that runs the exhaust through an exhaust flow analyzer tool. In addition, it has orange cabling sticking out from the front end along with a kill switch, and another kill switch is located on the rear quarter panel. (We’re told that the kill switches are there to stop power to the electric motors, which also signifies that the C8 PHEV should be AWD). The C8 PHEV is expected to be analogous to the current Stingray model, but with hybridized power. It’s currently unclear what the powertrain will look like, though we have been told to expect the electrified hardware to aid in performance rather than fuel economy. Expect a launch either in late 2020 or 2021.
’21 Ford Bronco Undisguised This prototype of the ’21 Ford Bronco Sport has a signature boxy design that features an upright front fascia with Bronco headlight clusters, with a round headlight joined by a horizontal element. The front fascia is clearly configured to maximize the approach angle, as clearly seen from the profile angle. The long and flat hood joins to blacked-out pillars. Meanwhile, the roof—complete with roof rails—has a slight step up behind the B-pillar area. There’s also that raised body line after the C-pillar, giving this baby Bronco a look reminiscent of older Land Rovers. Like the front, the rear end appears to be optimized for a capable departure angle. Gray 17-in. wheels with a double-spoke design round out the package.
Three-Row Grand Cherokee Jeep is set to get a number of three-row SUVs in the next few years, and the Grand Cherokee three-row seen here looks like it’ll be ready to join the truck-based Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. This model will likely be similar in size to the current Durango and compete head-on with the Highlander and Explorer. It’s unclear how off-road capability will be compromised by a longer rear overhang, but it’s expected that at least one variant will be “trail rated.” The new three-row will be based off the Alfa Giorgio platform and is set to receive both the current model’s 3.6L Pentastar V6 and a new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six hybrid. The Grand Cherokee will debut sometime in 2021.

SEMA News—July 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Photos courtesy SpiedBilde, Brian Williams. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

Corvette C8 Plug-In Hybrid A curious C8 PHEV prototype was spotted with a rigged exhaust system that runs the exhaust through an exhaust flow analyzer tool. In addition, it has orange cabling sticking out from the front end along with a kill switch, and another kill switch is located on the rear quarter panel. (We’re told that the kill switches are there to stop power to the electric motors, which also signifies that the C8 PHEV should be AWD). The C8 PHEV is expected to be analogous to the current Stingray model, but with hybridized power. It’s currently unclear what the powertrain will look like, though we have been told to expect the electrified hardware to aid in performance rather than fuel economy. Expect a launch either in late 2020 or 2021.
’21 Ford Bronco Undisguised This prototype of the ’21 Ford Bronco Sport has a signature boxy design that features an upright front fascia with Bronco headlight clusters, with a round headlight joined by a horizontal element. The front fascia is clearly configured to maximize the approach angle, as clearly seen from the profile angle. The long and flat hood joins to blacked-out pillars. Meanwhile, the roof—complete with roof rails—has a slight step up behind the B-pillar area. There’s also that raised body line after the C-pillar, giving this baby Bronco a look reminiscent of older Land Rovers. Like the front, the rear end appears to be optimized for a capable departure angle. Gray 17-in. wheels with a double-spoke design round out the package.
Three-Row Grand Cherokee Jeep is set to get a number of three-row SUVs in the next few years, and the Grand Cherokee three-row seen here looks like it’ll be ready to join the truck-based Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. This model will likely be similar in size to the current Durango and compete head-on with the Highlander and Explorer. It’s unclear how off-road capability will be compromised by a longer rear overhang, but it’s expected that at least one variant will be “trail rated.” The new three-row will be based off the Alfa Giorgio platform and is set to receive both the current model’s 3.6L Pentastar V6 and a new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six hybrid. The Grand Cherokee will debut sometime in 2021.

SEMA News—July 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

Brian Reese

The Retrofit Source (TRS) announced that Brian Reese joined the company as CEO. He succeeds Matt Kossoff, who will become TRS’s chief product officer and remain on the board of directors. Reese is a veteran automotive industry executive and former CEO of Race Winning Brands. He has more than 20 years of experience in fueling premium brands with products and serving customers with best-in-class support in the automotive aftermarket.

Edemitsu Lubricants America announced the appointment of Michael Park as senior director for aftermarket sales and operations for North America. Park has more than 30 years of experience and proven leadership in the automotive aftermarket, including sales, logistics/distribution, wholesale and retail parts.

The Aftermarket Performance Group (APG), a holding company of automotive performance aftermarket companies in the wholesale, retail, e-commerce and manufacturing segments, named Mike Sinoway as CEO. Prior to APG, Sinoway served as CEO at MaritzCX.

Nexen Tire America Inc. announced a new distribution center located at 2190 Creekside Pkwy., in Lockbourne, Ohio. The new Ohio distribution center marks the third addition to its list of U.S. distribution facilities, joining the existing two located in California and Georgia. Ohio was strategically chosen for its centralized location in the United States, allowing Nexen to increase efficiency. With three distribution centers triangulating most of the United States, customers can now expect shorter delivery times and lower costs, according to the company.

XS Power Batteries announced its acquisition of all of the assets of New York-based ultracapacitor manufacturer Ioxus Inc. Ioxus will continue to manufacture the same products through Systematic Power Manufacturing LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Systematic Power Solutions LLC, dba XS Power Batteries. Existing customer orders will continue to ship on schedule with no foreseeable delays in the manufacturing and delivery process.

Rob Kinnan

Accessible Technologies Inc., the parent company of ProCharger and Inovair, welcomed Rob Kinnan as the company’s new marketing director. Kinnan has nearly 31 years of experience in the automotive publishing world, most recently serving as the editor of Mustang Monthly. He also worked with Motor Trend Group, including a seven-year stint as the editor of Hot Rod. Kinnan was also a founding member of the National Mustang Racers Association, serving as editorial director for both Race Pages and Fastest Street Car.

Peterson Manufacturing announced that Al Anderson was named the company’s new vice president of sales and marketing. Most recently, Anderson was director of fleet business development for CIMC Intermodal Equipment. A longtime industry veteran, he served for six years as chair of the associates group of the American Trucking Association’s 2,300-member Technology & Maintenance Council.

H&S Autoshot announced a partnership with Steve Darnell of Welder Up (famous for “Vegas Rat Rods” on the Discovery Channel) for its welding and plasma-cutting products. This partnership confirms Darnell as H&S Autoshot’s official brand ambassador. Darnell is the creative mastermind behind the motorized works of art that emerge from the WelderUp shop.

Melling Engine Parts CEO Mark Melling announced the acquisition of Performance Springs UK Ltd. based in Blackpool, England. Performance Springs specializes in the design and manufacturing of springs for the automotive and industrial sectors. The new company will be renamed Melling Performance Springs Ltd., and all management and sales staff are staying with the company.

Transtar Industries Inc. named David Haynes its vice president of U.S. domestic distribution. Haynes is based in Cleveland and reports to Tim Bowes, president and CEO. Haynes brings a significant track record in leading corporate strategic growth initiatives, according to the company, and joins Transtar from Honeywell International, where he served as vice president of marketing for its Novar and Incom divisions.

Mast Motorsports announced the acquisition of Magnitude Performance. Jason Youd, founder of Magnitude Performance, will be named CEO of Mast Motor-sports. He will manage all aspects of Mast Motorsports and support Mast Powertrain as managing director. According to the company, Mast Motorsports and Magnitude Performance will continue advanced development for motorsports products and technologies as part of Mast Technologies group.

ReadyLift Suspensions acquired Zbroz Racing—an aftermarket performance parts manufacturer focused on UTV and snowmobile suspension components. ReadyLift is a division of Wheel Pros. Zbroz was founded in 1998 by the four Zollinger brothers after their successful snowmobile hill climbing career. Today the company provides suspension products for snowmobiles and
UTVs.

SEMA News—July 2020

BUSINESS

Powersports Market Trends

Remaining Tough and Agile Amid a Challenging Environment

By Mike Imlay

Over the last decade, UTV market gains have eclipsed motorcycles in the power-sports world. Highly versatile, upgradable, economical and most of all family-friendly, their appeal showed little sign of waning even amid market uncertainties introduced by the recent coronavirus pandemic.

In late January, all indicators pointed to another robust 2020 for the market. Then came the coronavirus. In response, major UTV manufacturers took decisive measures to safeguard employees and customers and weather the national shutdown initiated in April, and aftermarket manufacturers and retailers developed new ways of selling. More recently, as the summer powersports season moves into full swing, there is optimism that a significant rebound will be possible.

On the OEM side, manufacturers reacted quickly earlier this spring. Market leader Polaris announced temporary closures of its two home-state plants in Roseau and Monticello, Minnesota, and at about the same time, PowerSports Business reported that Yamaha, which had previously paused U.S. production in March, would soon add staff reductions and furloughs at several American plants. Honda likewise suspended powersports production at its South Carolina manufacturing facility as of March and implemented furloughs for the majority of its U.S. salaried employees and support associates in April.

A relative newcomer to the UTV market, Roxor also closed down its Michigan production facility in response to a shelter-at-home order from that state’s governor. However, Dan Proffer, the company’s off-road vehicles marketing manager, told Motorcycle & Powersports News, “We are actively looking for opportunities to switch our production over to manufacturing products that can help with the COVID-19 fight. We will continually monitor this situation, but as of now, it’s business as usual, and we look forward to restarting production as soon as it is possible [and safe for all concerned].”

Proffer’s comments seemed to reflect a general if guarded optimism among powersports industry leaders that COVID-19 would prove a short-term obstacle along the market’s overall upward trajectory. Although there was uncertainty how the pandemic might affect consumer buying going into spring, a traditionally busy season for powersports, there were also positive signs that demand for vehicles and accessories could hold steady.

SuperATV makes a broad range of UTV products, but its GDP Portal is among its most popular for mud riders. The lift and gearing it provides allows them to run significantly larger tires without power losses.

Amid the shutdowns, furloughs and economic disruptions, a number of powersports manufacturers and dealers loosened credit and financing terms to bolster new-vehicle buyers and existing customers. In fact, Wells Fargo Securities analyst Tim Conder told PowerSports Business that research suggested “we could see a meaningful bounce-back in [powersports] retail once visibility improves and stay-at-home orders are lifted,” as long as consumers were able to manage cash flow throughout the economic downturn.

Conder added that the industry’s retail momentum in March, coupled with other positive economic factors that preceded the pandemic, bodes well for an aggressive comeback into the 2021 calendar year. Meanwhile, mid-April analysis by Hedges & Company, a digital marketing agency serving the automotive and powersports aftermarkets, revealed a significant uptick in online sales of truck, off-road, performance and racing parts during the first weeks of the crisis.

But powersports retail has always followed a dealer-based model, and many U.S. dealerships were closed as each state issued its own set of directives for hunkering down in April. Those that were able to remain open as essential businesses often demonstrated a range of best practices to address health and safety guidelines, including sales by appointment, limiting showrooms to 10 people, enforcing social distancing, Zoom vehicle walk-arounds for potential buyers, online ordering, and direct vehicle shipments to customers. The question was whether such measures would prove enough to maintain profits as the nation reopened its economy under lesser but still stringent guidelines.

“I’ve been working with a lot of stores, which I call the innovators, that are selling powersports equipment without a person ever coming into the dealership,” said Rob Greenwald, president of The PowerSport Solution, a dealer consultant firm. “You’re showing them a motorcycle or whatever by FaceTime or Zoom and negotiating, then doing a complete deal and delivering the unit to the customer’s house and signing the paperwork in their driveway by setting up a small portable table [and wearing masks].”

Greenwald added that a quick anecdotal survey of several open dealerships he regularly works with showed significant drops in floor traffic but an even more significant rise in serious, qualified buyers.

“They’re selling at a much higher level to the people they’re getting,” he explained. “It’s a lot fewer shoppers and dreamers than buyers.”

Motorcycle & Powersports News editor-at-large Brendan Baker also predicted a burst of pent-up demand once closed dealerships reopen.

“This is the time of year when dealers are traditionally the busiest,” he said. “This is when everybody’s spring starts out and all the numbers are ramping up. All the people are getting their bikes out of storage and getting ready to ride.”

RCV Performance Products focuses on hard-core racing and performance products, with UTV product testing done in real-world racing environments. Prop shafts such as these for the Polaris XP Turbo and Turbo S are made to order and account for up to 10% of the company’s UTV parts sales.

Side-by-Sides

Along with their motorcycles, power-sports enthusiasts will also be prepping and riding UTVs—lots of them. Once used mainly for utilitarian tasks, the vehicles have morphed into an enthusiast recreational phenomenon. In the West, they prowl the deserts. In the South, they power through mud. They take hunters, campers and off-road enthusiasts to outdoor locations reliably and in comfort. In fact, their sales numbers have continued to climb in recent years while motorcycle sales have more or less plateaued.

“They’ve taken a little bit of a bite out of ATVs, but not as much as you’d think, because ATVs have a much lower price point, so it’s a different kind of customer,” Baker observed. “We estimate the side-by-side market at around 500,000 new units produced per year. Probably a little more.”

UTVs have become a hit with consumers because they’re economical, family-friendly, versatile and easy to upgrade. Base models can run from $8,000–$15,000, with high-performance versions available for under $40,000—although upgrades can push the price tag much higher.

Among manufacturers, Polaris currently reigns as market king with its RZR and Ranger models. Other popular brands include Can-Am with its Maverick line, which encompasses an X3 Rs Turbo version; Yamaha with its Wolverine X2 R-spec; Textron with its Prowler; Arctic Cat and its Wildcat; along with Honda and its Pioneer series, to name a few. However, the category is extremely diverse, and SEMA market research has identified three distinct vehicle types:

• Sport models, which are more commonly found in the Western United States and are typically the most accessorized UTVs. Owners of those vehicles tend toward social pursuits, often riding with passengers and in groups.
• Multipurpose vehicles, which comprise the largest segment of UTV sales, with the highest volume residing in the South. Owners seek ultimate versatility with their vehicles and their modifications.
• Utility models, whose sales are strongest in the South and Midwest. Owners perceive and use their UTVs as workhorses, focusing on practicality and durability. They are the least likely to upgrade their vehicles and are the most solitary, frequently driving their UTVs alone.

The rise of UTV motorsports, including several UTV classes in SCORE International Baja racing, has been a key market driver for enthusiast consumers. “Race on Sunday, sell on Monday” is very much alive in this powersports category. Photo courtesy: Joe Stokes/Get Some Photography

SEMA research has further found that about 82% of UTV owners take an interest in upgrading and accessorizing their vehicles. Moreover, accessory decisions are made early, with most purchases occurring within the first three months, often at dealerships or directly through the original equipment manufacturer.

Their modifications tend toward enhancing overall functionality and versatility, since many owners use their UTVs year-round for varied driving activities across diverse terrains. Personal sources such as dealers, friends and family have the greatest impact on buying decisions.

Not surprisingly, most UTV households own trucks (particularly pickups), leading to about 18% of owners purchasing accessories for their tow vehicles as a direct result of purchasing an UTV. Industry experts also note a high crossover into ATV and motorcycle ownership as well. It’s not unusual for a household to have a mix of powersports vehicles.

When accessorizing, UTV owners have traditionally focused on safety over speed, durability over performance, and practicality over excitement—but that may be changing, thanks to the growth of UTV motorsports.

RCV Performance Products, based in Loves Park, Illinois, manufactures an array of American-made UTV driveline parts aimed at the performance racing market.

“We pride ourselves on quality, and with that quality comes a price, so we focus primarily on the high-end side of racing,” said Ricky Berry, the company’s marketing director. “We’re in the winning cars of the Baja 1000, King of the Hammers, Dakar, even a lot of the rock bouncing on the East Coast and hill climbing. We work with a lot of racers on development, trying to find out what’s best, then we’ll work that into our product line for the general public.”

Berry said there is little doubt that the increasing popularity of UTV motorsports is influencing weekend-warrior consumers.

“Everybody wants to be like the best,” he said. “The guy who’s building in his garage is looking at magazines. He’s looking at websites with the best—the top driver, the top machine and whatever the latest technology is. That trickle-down effect is very real.”

While the company originally focused on Polaris applications, it widened its applications to include Can-Am and Yamaha as UTV motorsports grew. However, the company still finds desert racing to be the ultimate R&D platform.

“The desert world is the most abusive environment for an axle—the heat, the grease, the wear—so many technological advances have come from that desert-race world for us,” he said.

Still, UTVs are right at home in all sorts of environments when properly upgraded, including the muddy hills, pits and trails of the South.

“That’s a huge market for us, the mud guys,” said Tyler Greves, media manager for SuperATV, which is based in Madison, Indiana.

The company recently opened a warehouse-distribution facility in Shreveport, Louisiana, and makes aftermarket UTV parts ranging from axles to long-travel kits, including applications especially popular with mud riders. In fact, the ability to rapidly ship parts to mud-configured UTVs factored into the company’s decision to open a second location, which also features a showroom.

“Mud guys love going big,” Greves said. “That’s kind of where we got our name started. We were making lift kits and A-arms to allow you to get more ground clearance and put a bigger tire on the machine. When you talk to mud guys, they buy a new machine and the first question they ask is, ‘What size tire can I run without rubbing?’ It’s pretty crazy. We’re up to people running 60-in. tires on these UTVs that come from the factory with a 29 or a 30.”

Responding to that market, SuperATV produced what Greves called a “game-changing” GDP Portal, a portal gear lift utilizing a hub-mounted box to provide gear reduction as well as a lift kit.

“We have 4-, 6- and 8-in. boxes giving you the amount of lift,” he explained. “Then we have different gear-reduction options so that you’re able to put that big tire on. That helps turn the gears and give you back that power.”

Energy Suspension entered the UTV market with polyurethane bushings and other durable components for Polaris and Can-Am consumers desiring longer-lasting parts for the extreme environments in which their vehicles travel. The company is now eyeing other brands and applications in the category.

Family Style

Because UTVs are frequently family conveyances, with adults and children sharing rides and even taking turns driving, there is no end to the aftermarket goodies available.

“We offer pretty much anything and everything from a lug nut up to a turbo kit, the portals, and everything in between—windshields, roofs, doors, A-arms, axles, you name it,” Greves said. “That’s what has been really cool with the ATV scene. There’s so many different companies out there making different things in different styles. This is an industry growing like wildfire because you can go out and buy one and just have a blast. And if you want to, they’re more than capable to do more things than you could ever dream of.”

As of late April, COVID-19 hadn’t slowed consumer demand for SuperATV’s products, though Greves did note that smaller shops might have seen more of an impact, depending on state and local shutdown orders. However, SuperATV was doing enough business that it could adapt its windshield manufacturing capabilities to making personal shields and intubation hoods to aid hospitals and first responders during the crisis. Going forward, that exercise may open a potential crossover market to shield manufacturing for casinos, gas stations and other businesses seeking to protect workers and customers.

Walter Schnapp, heavy-duty/power-sports manager at Energy Suspension in San Clemente, California, also reported that the suspension-component company was successfully navigating the changing business climate.

“We’re still a completely U.S.-made product, so we haven’t been affected by supply-chain issues or anything like that, so we’re weathering this really well,” he said.

Long known for its polyurethane suspension replacement parts, the company has also found more recent success in the UTV space, notably for Polaris and Can-Am models. Schnapp said UTV consumers are universally looking for all types of vehicle components that are more durable and longer-lasting than factory originals.

“We were getting a lot of reports of longevity issues with UTV bushings,” he said. “I’ve heard instances where people are saying they get like 150 hours out of the OEM bushings. Replacing them with polyurethane, you’re seeing just a massive increase in longevity—three or four times longer. We try to use our material to make people’s lives easier. We’re trying to solve problems wherever we can.”

Schnapp said that the segment continues to grow, adding that even the U.S. military is now experimenting with UTVs for rapid combat operations.

“We eventually would like to be able to make components for those vehicles,” he said. “A lot of the tactical vehicles that are going to be deployed in the future are going to be very much based on the UTV, and that makes sense—light load and a lot of other things that are beneficial in a battlefield environment. We hope to be able to use our polyurethane to good effect in those kinds of areas. And then we’re talking to a lot of different outfits out there that are employing UTVs on the industrial side—mining, farming, you name it.”

Motorcycle Culture

While the UTV scene continues to expand, the motorcycle segment has continued rolling along at a more subdued pace as it grapples with changing consumer demographics.

“The Baby Boomers have represented a disproportionate size of the market for many, many years—decades, actually,” Baker explained. “As Baby Boomers grew up, they went bigger. They started with a smaller Harley or a Triumph or something like that and moved into bigger and bigger motorcycles to where Harley was only producing heavyweight bikes for the most part. I think the last recession around 2009 was when a lot of those people bought their last bikes. They’re just not into riding as much now. With [car drivers] phoning and texting, things got overly dangerous. It’s always been dangerous, but street riding has been on the decline for the most part.”

Baker said that off-roading has become the bigger segment for motorcycles.

“Right now, it’s between dirt bikes and dual-sport bikes, which kind of count as off-road/on-road,” he said. “Guys want to ride the big KTM adventure bikes, so the motorcycle market has taken a bit of a hit and a redirect. Harley, Indian and some other companies have said that they’re attempting to make more entry- and mid-level bikes that appeal to Millennials.”

And while electric bikes have grabbed headlines recently, Baker doesn’t expect them to make much headway in the market anytime soon.

“A lot of people looking at motorcycles still like the engine sound,” he said. “Maybe they drive a Tesla, but they still want a gas-powered motorcycle, especially if they’re going off-roading. There’s range anxiety, and those engines are so small. A lot of people think it’s a long way off before we see electric, although the technology is getting better and better.”

As with UTVs, aftermarket favorites for motorcyclists include wheels and tires, audio upgrades, GPS, hands-free communications, improved lighting, riding and safety gear, and lifestyle apparel. Like UTV treks, street and off-road motorcycle rides are often social and recreational activities, so there are lifestyle crossover opportunities with outdoor and
sporting pursuits.

All that said, what will the powersports market look like in the final half of 2020? As of press time, the situation was highly fluid, with a lot riding on factors such as how swiftly the U.S. economy could open, consumer cash flow and confidence, and manufacturer and dealer agility in rising to health and safety challenges—not to mention having the business resources to weather the downturn. Nonetheless, aftermarket businesses were still doing what they do best going into spring: innovating, problem solving, and continuing to build and sell the products that excite consumers.

Greenwald, for one, had little doubt that the industry would rebound quickly. He predicted that consumers will want to get out and re-experience the world once restrictions are lifted and money returns, and powersports will feature prominently in their adventuring.

“When you’re in the powersports industry, you’re selling fun,” he said. “We sell lifestyle.”