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Dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows and activities have been announced. Details are: SEMA Webinar, "Business Efficiency 101: Using Product Information to Increase Sales, Boost Image and Reduce Costs," February 5, 2009, 10:00 a.m. (PST)

Toyota Motor Sales displayed a custom Yaris model in its booth at the 2008 SEMA Show. During the 2008 SEMA Show, automakers displayed increased attention to customized CUVs and small cars, demonstrating that despite the economic downturn and declines in SUV and light-truck sales, a healthy market of...

After witnessing the vast array of specialty-equipment products available to all vehicles at the 2008 SEMA Show, Jim Hitchcock, general sales manager for Auburn Honda, now realizes the value of pushing aftermarket sales.

SEMA Show New Product: Gibson Exhaust - 2009 Dodge Challenger Cat Back System

Rough Country Suspension Toyota Tundra Pickups finished off 2008 with 1,958,336 in total sales, declining 27% from 2007. Although gas prices during October–December recovered from the record-breaking highs of the summer, consumers are still shying away from big pickups.

Responses from SEMA’s latest enthusiast survey indicate their everyday vehicles, or “daily drivers,” are being held onto longer than expected; a claim made by 64% of the respondents. This, however, is likely to lead to an opportunity for SEMA members.

ProPledge™, the ground-breaking warranty assurance initiative designed to increase sales of specialty auto products through new-car dealers, has concluded its extensive testing phase and begins rolling out nationwide in January 2009.

SEMA’s grassroots efforts to prevent Congress from including a nationwide “Cash for Clunkers” program in the economic stimulus package has been successful—so far. At SEMA’s request, thousands of SEMA members and SEMA Action Network (SAN) enthusiasts contacted House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in opposition...