By SEMA Editors

The new K5 Blazer-E retains as much of the stock Blazer as possible and approximately 90% of the new parts installed for the eCrate package are factory components from the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

To convert the ’77 K5 Blazer, the team first removed the original 175-hp 400-cid V-8, three-speed automatic, fuel system and exhaust. Then, the team installed a Bolt EV electric motor, delivering 200 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a Chevrolet Performance electronically controlled four-speed automatic.

At SEMA360, Chevrolet showcased a ’77 K5 Blazer converted to all-electric propulsion. The K5 Blazer-E is a functional proof of concept of the upcoming Electric Connect and Cruise package Chevrolet Performance plans to sell in the second half of 2021.

During the virtual event, Chevrolet Performance is surveying SEMA members interested in building their own electric projects to help finalize Chevrolet’s initial eCrate offering.

“As GM introduces a new fleet of electric vehicles, it creates an exciting opportunity to bring EV technology to the aftermarket,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance and Motorsports. “Our vision is to offer a comprehensive line of Connect and Cruise systems from Chevrolet Performance, delivering a solution for every customer ranging from LSX V-8s to eCrate conversions.”

The new K5 Blazer-E retains as much of the stock Blazer as possible and approximately 90% of the new parts installed for the eCrate package are factory components from the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

To convert the ’77 K5 Blazer, the team first removed the original 175-hp 400-cid V-8, three-speed automatic, fuel system and exhaust. Then, the team installed a Bolt EV electric motor, delivering 200 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a Chevrolet Performance electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The rest of the Blazer drivetrain remains untouched, including the transfer case, driveshaft and axles.

Power is supplied by a 400-volt Bolt EV battery pack with 60 kilowatt-hours of usable energy installed in the cargo area. Using production controllers and wiring harnesses preserves many Bolt EV features, including shock protection, battery heating and cooling, battery-overcharge protection and even regenerative braking.

The aftermarket components include an electric power steering kit, an electric pump providing vacuum to the stock brake system and an electronic controller to drive inputs to the vintage Blazer gauges, such as displaying the battery’s state of charge on the original fuel gauge.

To prepare for the eCrate launch, Chevrolet Performance is certifying Electric Connect and Cruise installers. Participating Chevrolet dealers and aftermarket companies will receive the training, tools and equipment needed to work with high-voltage systems and charging stations to service customers’ vehicles.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering in Brighton, Michigan, will be the first company to pilot the training and certification program. This experience will help inform the certification process for future installers.

The 60-kWh Electric Connect and Cruise package, expected to be available in the second half of 2021, includes:

• 60-kWh battery pack
• DC-to-AC power inverter to drive the electric motor
• DC-to-DC power converter to power low-voltage systems
• Wiring harnesses, controllers and water pumps for battery heating and cooling

Chevrolet Performance is also evaluating additional eCrate packages with higher-performance options and new battery configurations to fit a wider range of aftermarket applications. Longer term, the team will work to integrate GM’s modular Ultium battery system technologies.

“Minutes after Chevrolet showed the E-10 concept, customers started calling to ask how soon they could build their EV project,” said Russ O’Blenes, Chevrolet director of engineering, Performance and Racing. “The K5 Blazer-E demonstrates what is possible for customers who want to convert their vintage truck to a daily driver with the instant torque and unique driving experience of an EV. For customers who want more extreme performance, the modular eCrate system will have virtually limitless applications.”

By SEMA Editors

The new K5 Blazer-E retains as much of the stock Blazer as possible and approximately 90% of the new parts installed for the eCrate package are factory components from the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

To convert the ’77 K5 Blazer, the team first removed the original 175-hp 400-cid V-8, three-speed automatic, fuel system and exhaust. Then, the team installed a Bolt EV electric motor, delivering 200 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a Chevrolet Performance electronically controlled four-speed automatic.

At SEMA360, Chevrolet showcased a ’77 K5 Blazer converted to all-electric propulsion. The K5 Blazer-E is a functional proof of concept of the upcoming Electric Connect and Cruise package Chevrolet Performance plans to sell in the second half of 2021.

During the virtual event, Chevrolet Performance is surveying SEMA members interested in building their own electric projects to help finalize Chevrolet’s initial eCrate offering.

“As GM introduces a new fleet of electric vehicles, it creates an exciting opportunity to bring EV technology to the aftermarket,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance and Motorsports. “Our vision is to offer a comprehensive line of Connect and Cruise systems from Chevrolet Performance, delivering a solution for every customer ranging from LSX V-8s to eCrate conversions.”

The new K5 Blazer-E retains as much of the stock Blazer as possible and approximately 90% of the new parts installed for the eCrate package are factory components from the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

To convert the ’77 K5 Blazer, the team first removed the original 175-hp 400-cid V-8, three-speed automatic, fuel system and exhaust. Then, the team installed a Bolt EV electric motor, delivering 200 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a Chevrolet Performance electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The rest of the Blazer drivetrain remains untouched, including the transfer case, driveshaft and axles.

Power is supplied by a 400-volt Bolt EV battery pack with 60 kilowatt-hours of usable energy installed in the cargo area. Using production controllers and wiring harnesses preserves many Bolt EV features, including shock protection, battery heating and cooling, battery-overcharge protection and even regenerative braking.

The aftermarket components include an electric power steering kit, an electric pump providing vacuum to the stock brake system and an electronic controller to drive inputs to the vintage Blazer gauges, such as displaying the battery’s state of charge on the original fuel gauge.

To prepare for the eCrate launch, Chevrolet Performance is certifying Electric Connect and Cruise installers. Participating Chevrolet dealers and aftermarket companies will receive the training, tools and equipment needed to work with high-voltage systems and charging stations to service customers’ vehicles.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering in Brighton, Michigan, will be the first company to pilot the training and certification program. This experience will help inform the certification process for future installers.

The 60-kWh Electric Connect and Cruise package, expected to be available in the second half of 2021, includes:

• 60-kWh battery pack
• DC-to-AC power inverter to drive the electric motor
• DC-to-DC power converter to power low-voltage systems
• Wiring harnesses, controllers and water pumps for battery heating and cooling

Chevrolet Performance is also evaluating additional eCrate packages with higher-performance options and new battery configurations to fit a wider range of aftermarket applications. Longer term, the team will work to integrate GM’s modular Ultium battery system technologies.

“Minutes after Chevrolet showed the E-10 concept, customers started calling to ask how soon they could build their EV project,” said Russ O’Blenes, Chevrolet director of engineering, Performance and Racing. “The K5 Blazer-E demonstrates what is possible for customers who want to convert their vintage truck to a daily driver with the instant torque and unique driving experience of an EV. For customers who want more extreme performance, the modular eCrate system will have virtually limitless applications.”

By Ashley Reyes

New video interviews of the 2020 YEN Vanguard Award winner and YEN Young Executive of the Year is available on the Young Executives Network’s (YEN) SEMA360 Showcase.

YEN Vanguard Award

Brian Reese, The Retrofit Source, is this year’s SEMA Vanguard Award winner—an honor given to an individual, business or organization that has positively impacted a young executive’s career within the automotive industry.  

As the CEO of a disruptive business in the aftermarket, Reese understands the importance of helping the next generation of leaders to grow, and fosters opportunities for mentorship in his day-to-day activities by dedicating time to share his knowledge and insights with younger employees and industry leaders. Throughout his career, he has helped advance business operations for notable aftermarket brands. Reese is a dedicated SEMA volunteer who often heads up strategic initiatives and allows and encourages his employees to volunteer in order to better themselves, the company and the industry at large.

YEN Young Executive of the Year Award

Thomas Harrell, AllPro Distributing, is this year’s YEN Young Executive of the Year winner.

Presented to an individual who has made a positive impact on the industry, SEMA YEN Young Executive of the Year is awarded to a YEN member who has demonstrated exceptional service, integrity, professional growth and business ethics.

In addition to successfully leading the integration of Weathers Auto Supply into AllPro distributing’s distribution network, Harrell has expanded into new markets and strengthened the company’s presence through joining the AAM group.

SEMA360 participants are invited to watch new video interviews of the award winners by visiting the SEMA360 YEN Showcase.

By Ashley Reyes

New video interviews of the 2020 YEN Vanguard Award winner and YEN Young Executive of the Year is available on the Young Executives Network’s (YEN) SEMA360 Showcase.

YEN Vanguard Award

Brian Reese, The Retrofit Source, is this year’s SEMA Vanguard Award winner—an honor given to an individual, business or organization that has positively impacted a young executive’s career within the automotive industry.  

As the CEO of a disruptive business in the aftermarket, Reese understands the importance of helping the next generation of leaders to grow, and fosters opportunities for mentorship in his day-to-day activities by dedicating time to share his knowledge and insights with younger employees and industry leaders. Throughout his career, he has helped advance business operations for notable aftermarket brands. Reese is a dedicated SEMA volunteer who often heads up strategic initiatives and allows and encourages his employees to volunteer in order to better themselves, the company and the industry at large.

YEN Young Executive of the Year Award

Thomas Harrell, AllPro Distributing, is this year’s YEN Young Executive of the Year winner.

Presented to an individual who has made a positive impact on the industry, SEMA YEN Young Executive of the Year is awarded to a YEN member who has demonstrated exceptional service, integrity, professional growth and business ethics.

In addition to successfully leading the integration of Weathers Auto Supply into AllPro distributing’s distribution network, Harrell has expanded into new markets and strengthened the company’s presence through joining the AAM group.

SEMA360 participants are invited to watch new video interviews of the award winners by visiting the SEMA360 YEN Showcase.

By Ashley Reyes

New video interviews of the 2020 YEN Vanguard Award winner and YEN Young Executive of the Year is available on the Young Executives Network’s (YEN) SEMA360 Showcase.

YEN Vanguard Award

Brian Reese, The Retrofit Source, is this year’s SEMA Vanguard Award winner—an honor given to an individual, business or organization that has positively impacted a young executive’s career within the automotive industry.  

As the CEO of a disruptive business in the aftermarket, Reese understands the importance of helping the next generation of leaders to grow, and fosters opportunities for mentorship in his day-to-day activities by dedicating time to share his knowledge and insights with younger employees and industry leaders. Throughout his career, he has helped advance business operations for notable aftermarket brands. Reese is a dedicated SEMA volunteer who often heads up strategic initiatives and allows and encourages his employees to volunteer in order to better themselves, the company and the industry at large.

YEN Young Executive of the Year Award

Thomas Harrell, AllPro Distributing, is this year’s YEN Young Executive of the Year winner.

Presented to an individual who has made a positive impact on the industry, SEMA YEN Young Executive of the Year is awarded to a YEN member who has demonstrated exceptional service, integrity, professional growth and business ethics.

In addition to successfully leading the integration of Weathers Auto Supply into AllPro distributing’s distribution network, Harrell has expanded into new markets and strengthened the company’s presence through joining the AAM group.

SEMA360 participants are invited to watch new video interviews of the award winners by visiting the SEMA360 YEN Showcase.

By Ashley Reyes

Jenna Jefferies	Sydney McQueary

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Jenna Jefferies is the 2020 SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year. The announcement was made through a new video that was just released on the SBN Showcase in SEMA360.

Jefferies, who is a former SBN Select Committee member, SEMA Cares Select Committee member and active SEMA volunteer, received the award, which recognizes women who positively impact the industry through leadership and active industry involvement. SEMA360 participants are invited to visit the SEMA360 SBN Showcase to watch a video of Jefferies sharing what inspires her as a woman in the industry, who helped her get here, and what her reaction is to winning the award. Attendees can connect with Jefferies via SBN’s Showcase page on Wednesday, November 4, from 11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (PST) via a Boardroom to hear about her journey in the industry.

Also on the SEMA360 SBN Showcase in an announcement of this year’s Jessi Combs Rising Star award—Sydney McQueary from the University of Tennessee. McQueary is a 2020 SEMA Scholarship winner and is being recognized as a young woman in the industry who is making significant strides in advancing her career. 

The SEMA360 SBN Showcase also includes industry resources and networking events tailored specifically to women in automotive.

By Ashley Reyes

Jenna Jefferies	Sydney McQueary

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Jenna Jefferies is the 2020 SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year. The announcement was made through a new video that was just released on the SBN Showcase in SEMA360.

Jefferies, who is a former SBN Select Committee member, SEMA Cares Select Committee member and active SEMA volunteer, received the award, which recognizes women who positively impact the industry through leadership and active industry involvement. SEMA360 participants are invited to visit the SEMA360 SBN Showcase to watch a video of Jefferies sharing what inspires her as a woman in the industry, who helped her get here, and what her reaction is to winning the award. Attendees can connect with Jefferies via SBN’s Showcase page on Wednesday, November 4, from 11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (PST) via a Boardroom to hear about her journey in the industry.

Also on the SEMA360 SBN Showcase in an announcement of this year’s Jessi Combs Rising Star award—Sydney McQueary from the University of Tennessee. McQueary is a 2020 SEMA Scholarship winner and is being recognized as a young woman in the industry who is making significant strides in advancing her career. 

The SEMA360 SBN Showcase also includes industry resources and networking events tailored specifically to women in automotive.

By Ashley Reyes

Jenna Jefferies	Sydney McQueary

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Jenna Jefferies is the 2020 SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year. The announcement was made through a new video that was just released on the SBN Showcase in SEMA360.

Jefferies, who is a former SBN Select Committee member, SEMA Cares Select Committee member and active SEMA volunteer, received the award, which recognizes women who positively impact the industry through leadership and active industry involvement. SEMA360 participants are invited to visit the SEMA360 SBN Showcase to watch a video of Jefferies sharing what inspires her as a woman in the industry, who helped her get here, and what her reaction is to winning the award. Attendees can connect with Jefferies via SBN’s Showcase page on Wednesday, November 4, from 11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (PST) via a Boardroom to hear about her journey in the industry.

Also on the SEMA360 SBN Showcase in an announcement of this year’s Jessi Combs Rising Star award—Sydney McQueary from the University of Tennessee. McQueary is a 2020 SEMA Scholarship winner and is being recognized as a young woman in the industry who is making significant strides in advancing her career. 

The SEMA360 SBN Showcase also includes industry resources and networking events tailored specifically to women in automotive.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) has announced the recipients for two of the council’s prestigious industry awards—The TORA Hall of Fame and TORA Retailer of the Year.

TORA Hall of Fame – Henry "Tyson" Leonard (Deceased 2020), Leonard Building and Truck Accessories

Established to recognize and honor an outstanding individual whose creativity and industriousness has significantly enhanced or contributed to the industry’s growth, Henry “Tyson” Leonard of Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories has been named the 2020 TORA Hall of Fame Award recipient.

Leonard, who passed away early this year, founded Leonard Aluminum Utility Buildings, a manufacturer of storage buildings, in 1963. Recognizing that the construction of truck covers was very similar to that of portable sheds, the company began selling pickup truck covers in 1969. The diversification helped the company grow even more, and by 1975, Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories was set up in 15 locations. Soon, he expanded the truck accessories line to rear sliding windows for pickups, white plastic toolboxes, aluminum running boards and step bumpers.

Today, the Leonard brand is synonymous with truck accessories in the Southeast and continues to flourish in 58 locations and counting. Beyond business, Leonard was continually focused on the success of his employees and was not only admired as a larger-than-life personality and salesman, but also as a mentor to all Leonard employees. In 2016, Tyson sold his business and transitioned to enjoy his last years on his farm with his wife and animals. In January 2020, Tyson passed away.

TORA Retailer of the Year – Dixie 4 Wheel Drive

Established to recognize an outstanding light-truck accessory retailer that has enhanced the stature and growth of the truck and off-road industry, this year’s TORA Retailer of the Year Award is presented to Dixie 4 Wheel Drive.

Dixie 4 Wheel Drive is a leading influencer of off-road culture in Utah. For more than 20 years, the company has built high-end vehicles that go to the extreme terrain of the Sand Hollow Recreation area and Dixie’s newest location in Moab, Utah. As one of the company’s original owners, Milt Thompson is known for helping build some of the most iconic trails at Sand Hollow State Park recreational area.

Today, Dixie 4 Wheel Drive continues to look for ways to expand education to their customers by focusing on in-person classes. It’s well-known for its “101” class, which introduces new consumers into the lifestyle of the off-road world. Their facilities also host local groups such as the Desert Roads and Trails Society and Utah Public Lands Alliance (UPLA), both focused on keeping recreational lands open. Dixie 4 Wheel Drive can also be found hosting some of the biggest vendor parties at its Moab location during the Easter Jeep Safari.

Hear from Dixie 4 Wheel Drive’s General Manager Tara Thompson as she shares the role her customers play in the success of the business, and what the company is doing to continuously educate their customers directly from their show floor by visiting the TORA Showcase in SEMA360.

You will also be able to hear from Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories’ long-time employee Tracy Goss, as he reflect on Leonard’s legacy and positive impact on the industry.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) has announced the recipients for two of the council’s prestigious industry awards—The TORA Hall of Fame and TORA Retailer of the Year.

TORA Hall of Fame – Henry "Tyson" Leonard (Deceased 2020), Leonard Building and Truck Accessories

Established to recognize and honor an outstanding individual whose creativity and industriousness has significantly enhanced or contributed to the industry’s growth, Henry “Tyson” Leonard of Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories has been named the 2020 TORA Hall of Fame Award recipient.

Leonard, who passed away early this year, founded Leonard Aluminum Utility Buildings, a manufacturer of storage buildings, in 1963. Recognizing that the construction of truck covers was very similar to that of portable sheds, the company began selling pickup truck covers in 1969. The diversification helped the company grow even more, and by 1975, Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories was set up in 15 locations. Soon, he expanded the truck accessories line to rear sliding windows for pickups, white plastic toolboxes, aluminum running boards and step bumpers.

Today, the Leonard brand is synonymous with truck accessories in the Southeast and continues to flourish in 58 locations and counting. Beyond business, Leonard was continually focused on the success of his employees and was not only admired as a larger-than-life personality and salesman, but also as a mentor to all Leonard employees. In 2016, Tyson sold his business and transitioned to enjoy his last years on his farm with his wife and animals. In January 2020, Tyson passed away.

TORA Retailer of the Year – Dixie 4 Wheel Drive

Established to recognize an outstanding light-truck accessory retailer that has enhanced the stature and growth of the truck and off-road industry, this year’s TORA Retailer of the Year Award is presented to Dixie 4 Wheel Drive.

Dixie 4 Wheel Drive is a leading influencer of off-road culture in Utah. For more than 20 years, the company has built high-end vehicles that go to the extreme terrain of the Sand Hollow Recreation area and Dixie’s newest location in Moab, Utah. As one of the company’s original owners, Milt Thompson is known for helping build some of the most iconic trails at Sand Hollow State Park recreational area.

Today, Dixie 4 Wheel Drive continues to look for ways to expand education to their customers by focusing on in-person classes. It’s well-known for its “101” class, which introduces new consumers into the lifestyle of the off-road world. Their facilities also host local groups such as the Desert Roads and Trails Society and Utah Public Lands Alliance (UPLA), both focused on keeping recreational lands open. Dixie 4 Wheel Drive can also be found hosting some of the biggest vendor parties at its Moab location during the Easter Jeep Safari.

Hear from Dixie 4 Wheel Drive’s General Manager Tara Thompson as she shares the role her customers play in the success of the business, and what the company is doing to continuously educate their customers directly from their show floor by visiting the TORA Showcase in SEMA360.

You will also be able to hear from Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories’ long-time employee Tracy Goss, as he reflect on Leonard’s legacy and positive impact on the industry.