By Ashley Reyes

The automotive specialty-equipment industry saw roughly even consumer sales through online and in-person channels in 2023, according to the "2024 SEMA Market Report." 

Available at www.sema.org/research, the report offers insights into the size and scope of the $52.3 billion specialty-automotive industry, including information on where consumers shopped for parts and accessories last year.  

"Our research found that auto parts chains with a physical location and online specialty retailers accounted for an equal percentage (13%) of aftermarket parts sales in 2023," said Matt Byun, SEMA market research manager. "Many consumers, especially young people, are also now embracing mixed-mode shopping with the rise of buy online and pickup-in-store options." 

Individual product types vary greatly in their retail sales, however, various factors such as cost, complexity, size, ease of installation and local availability also impact where a given product type is likely to be bought. For example:  

• Engine products are more likely to be sourced from specialized retailers, while more commoditized products like batteries and chemicals see sales mainly through traditional auto-parts chains.  
• Restoring a classic car requires more specific parts not readily available at a local store, leading to searching for parts online.  
• Less expensive, easier-to-install parts are more likely to be bought online, while complex or big-ticket products typically entail in-person advice or professional installation. 

The "2024 SEMA Market Report" is free to SEMA members as a benefit of membership. SEMA members can download the report, along with a range of additional reports designed to help members make more informed decisions for their business, at www.sema.org/research.  

Questions regarding SEMA Market Research can be directed to Byun at mattb@sema.org.  

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Joe Gregory, project engineer at LKQ Specialty Products Group-TrailFX, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Joe Gregory: Growing up, my dad was a mechanic who operated his own shop and I always wanted to be a mechanic like him. My dad always told me to go to school and get an education to mess with cars to swing me on a different trajectory than him. After going to school for engineering and now wrapping up my MBA, I am still messing with cars and trucks. This has helped me immensely personally and professionally by offering me an outlet to combine the time I spend developing my livelihood with the things I have passion for.

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

JG: The thing that keeps me in the industry is being at the forefront of aftermarket automotive product development and being able to see a cradle-to-grave project in full, from concept/prototype to production launch. This industry is the perfect blend of professionalism, fun and personal passion tied up into one. This industry provides a space to have a career being yourself and hone in on an area that suits your strengths and interests the best.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

JG: On a Saturday I can be found at home with my family enjoying the outdoors, spending time in my shop at home or taking care of farm animals. I also love to build things and spend a lot of time on home projects.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

JG: I prepare for an important meeting by refreshing myself on the status of the subject project, the deliverables I am responsible for and their respective statuses, and any relevant information that I need to relay forward.

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

JG: If I could go to lunch with one industry leader it would be Jay Leno, hands down. Jay seems like the most genuine person considering how large of a personality he is. Aside from his insanely impressive automotive collection, he also has a ton of passion for keeping the industry alive and expanding. I think that is important because it all starts as kids playing with cars. I know it did for me.

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

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Toyota, the SEMA Garage has announced a measuring session for the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner ahead of the vehicle's public release.

Benefits for participants:

• 3D Scan and Measure

• Develop Products

• Test-Fit Prototypes

• Exclusive Close-Up Experience

November 19-20, 2024

SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, CA

1577 Valley Vista Dr

Diamond Bar, CA 91765

Click here to RSVP!

For more information, contact productdevelopment@sema.org

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution (H.J. Res. 136), invalidating the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) tailpipe emissions regulation. Under the leadership of the lead sponsor, Rep. John James (R-MI), the bill passed with bipartisan support (215 – 191), with 8 Democrats joining [TC1] their Republican colleagues in voting for the SEMA-supported resolution. The CRA pushes back against the EPA's strictest motor-vehicle emissions standards ever enacted, which requires up to 83% of new vehicles sold by 2032 to be forms of electric vehicles (EVs) in order for automakers to comply.

The resolution now moves to the U.S. Senate [ES2], where Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE) has introduced a companion resolution (S.J. Res. 75), which has garnered bipartisan support from 48 cosponsors. Both H.J. Res. 136 and S.J. Res. 75 now await consideration in the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. If enacted into law, the resolution would require the EPA to start over on its tailpipe emissions rulemaking, providing an opportunity for SEMA and other organizations to advocate for a technology-neutral rulemaking without EV mandates. The Senate has until September 30 to take action on the resolution.   

We need the Senate to consider the CRA before they adjourn on September 30 for recess before the 2024 election. Click here to ask your U.S. senators to support S.J. Res. 75 and ensure that Americans can continue deciding on the best vehicle technology for their families and protect the interests of the specialty automotive aftermarket industry.

SEMA thanks Rep. James for advocating that the EPA embrace technology-neutral policies in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions in transportation, ensuring fairness across all vehicle technologies. The specialty-equipment industry has a forward-looking vision that embraces new technology to make vehicles cleaner and more efficient, including hydrogen, electric and alternative fuels, and continues to improve the internal-combustion engine (ICE).

SEMA supports Americans' ability to choose the technology that powers their motor vehicles, which is critical to thousands of small specialty automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide. The specialty-equipment industry supports more than 1.3 million U.S. automotive jobs and contributes $337 billion annually to the American economy. Notably, one-third of consumer spending on performance and accessory products is allocated to upgrading ICE vehicles and drive trains, while 25% of SEMA manufacturers produce ICE-related components.

TAKE ACTION

For more information, contact SEMA Manager of Federal Government Affairs Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution (H.J. Res. 136), invalidating the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) tailpipe emissions regulation. Under the leadership of the lead sponsor, Rep. John James (R-MI), the bill passed with bipartisan support (215 – 191), with 8 Democrats joining [TC1] their Republican colleagues in voting for the SEMA-supported resolution. The CRA pushes back against the EPA's strictest motor-vehicle emissions standards ever enacted, which requires up to 83% of new vehicles sold by 2032 to be forms of electric vehicles (EVs) in order for automakers to comply.

The resolution now moves to the U.S. Senate [ES2], where Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE) has introduced a companion resolution (S.J. Res. 75), which has garnered bipartisan support from 48 cosponsors. Both H.J. Res. 136 and S.J. Res. 75 now await consideration in the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. If enacted into law, the resolution would require the EPA to start over on its tailpipe emissions rulemaking, providing an opportunity for SEMA and other organizations to advocate for a technology-neutral rulemaking without EV mandates. The Senate has until September 30 to take action on the resolution.   

We need the Senate to consider the CRA before they adjourn on September 30 for recess before the 2024 election. Click here to ask your U.S. senators to support S.J. Res. 75 and ensure that Americans can continue deciding on the best vehicle technology for their families and protect the interests of the specialty automotive aftermarket industry.

SEMA thanks Rep. James for advocating that the EPA embrace technology-neutral policies in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions in transportation, ensuring fairness across all vehicle technologies. The specialty-equipment industry has a forward-looking vision that embraces new technology to make vehicles cleaner and more efficient, including hydrogen, electric and alternative fuels, and continues to improve the internal-combustion engine (ICE).

SEMA supports Americans' ability to choose the technology that powers their motor vehicles, which is critical to thousands of small specialty automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide. The specialty-equipment industry supports more than 1.3 million U.S. automotive jobs and contributes $337 billion annually to the American economy. Notably, one-third of consumer spending on performance and accessory products is allocated to upgrading ICE vehicles and drive trains, while 25% of SEMA manufacturers produce ICE-related components.

TAKE ACTION

For more information, contact SEMA Manager of Federal Government Affairs Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

The automotive aftermarket will converge in Las Vegas for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8. As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, SEMA Show organizers have compiled a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget (more details at the bottom of the article).

One of the deadlines surrounds the popular New Products Showcase featuring the latest products, innovations, technology, displays and services from exhibitors. Companies can now maximize their impact on the Show floor by entering their products, packaging and merchandising displays into the New Product Showcase, the top destination for media members, buyers, decision-makers and automotive professionals to source the hottest products from the Show floor in one convenient location.

Submissions for the 2024 SEMA Show New Product Showcase are open online at SEMAshow.com/newproducts. Show organizers recommend reading the complete rules and regulations online here. All products are considered and eligible for a New Products Showcase Award (formerly Global Media Awards), providing even more brand exposure and recognition.

The first SEMA Show New Product Showcase entry is always free of charge, with each additional product entry costing $95 through Friday, October 4. After that deadline, the price will be $175 per entry.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, some of which are also detailed in this article below. 

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form. But note, placing Freeman orders before the Tuesday, October 1 discount deadline, which offers discounted prices off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

• Friday, September 27: Exhibitor Registration Due for domestic exhibitors (to receive badges in the mail).
• Tuesday, October 1: Freight – Freeman Warehouse – First day to accept advance freight.
• Tuesday, October 1: Internet/Telephone Order (advance rate) – Cox Business.
• Thursday, October 3: Additional Freeman deadlines, including AV and computers; carpet and booth cleaning; credit card authorization; electrical order; exhibit accessories and furnishings; first-time exhibitor booth package; graphics including fabric, foamcore and PVC; hanging sign/banner labor; exhibit installation and dismantle labor; payment authorization form; rental exhibit order (advance rate); rigging equipment labor order; special signs and graphics (advance rate); third party payment authorization; and air/water/drain order utilities (advance rate).
• Friday, October 4: New Products Showcase entry advance rate deadline. (The first product is always free; save $80 on each additional entry by submitting before this deadline).
• Friday, October 4: Products for Project-Vehicle Builders. Add your brand's products to the listing and learn more here.
• Sunday, October 13: Exhibitor booth insurance (if purchased from Risk-Strategies/Buttine)
• Sunday, October 13: Sponsorship artwork graphics - Freeman

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists.

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals at the 2024 SEMA Show, it's important to stay up-to-date on upcoming deadlines. Click here for a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget. In addition, exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees. 

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show returns November 5-8, 2024, with a renewed focus on innovation to meet the needs of an evolving automotive aftermarket industry. As the landscape of attendees shifts toward a younger, more dynamic demographic, the Show continues to transform its offerings to deliver engaging, experiential elements that go beyond traditional trade show norms. 

This year's Show will feature a wide range of activations, live demonstrations, and immersive experiences designed to serve an international community seeking more than a walk through the convention center aisles. Attendees will experience the latest trends and advancements in an interactive format that encourages participation and discovery. 

"The 2024 SEMA Show is the result of a journey we started almost 20 years ago," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "Today's attendees want to engage with products, brands, and each other in different ways, and our goal is to provide an environment where they can explore, connect, and experience innovation in real time. This year's event is designed with that in mind, offering more opportunities for interaction, networking, and engagement." 

The SEMA Show is one of the largest trade shows in the world, powered by a passionate and innovative community. The 2024 Show is receiving more industry support than it has seen in years, with more than 2,400 exhibitors--including 500 first-time exhibitors--projected to display their latest products and services to thousands of attendees and media.  

New and Evolved Experiences 

The SEMA Show continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in the industry, not just for the scale of its event, but for its ability to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of the automotive aftermarket industry. With a focus on creating meaningful experiences, the Show is primed to attract a new wave of attendees who are eager for more dynamic, participatory interactions, and support exhibitors who are looking for ways to connect directly with both industry professionals and consumers. 

Among the Show's headlining innovations are two events designed to bookend the SEMA Week experience. Show attendees will kick off the Week with Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, an exclusive party for the entire industry community on the Las Vegas Convention Center campus. Show attendees will unite to forge relationships that will drive the industry forward as they enjoy chart-topping music from the Goo Goo Dolls, O.A.R., and Reignwolf and get ready for a week of discovery and innovation.  Attendees can learn more and purchase tickets at SEMAShow.com.

Closing the week is SEMA Fest, now relocated to the SEMA Show campus. SEMA Fest will welcome the enthusiast public and the industry community with live music featuring Sublime, Cage The Elephant, Fitz And The Tantrums, and Petey, as well as high-octane motorsports activations.   

Attendees can learn more and purchase tickets at SEMAFest.com. 

"The SEMA Show is an environment for the entire community to gather," said Gattuso. "We're unique because we have the global marketplace represented in one place, from manufacturing to service providers to distribution to end users. When you have that, great things are bound to happen."  

Introducing SEMA Live 

For 2024, SEMA Show planners are also thinking beyond the convention center walls. For the first time ever, SEMA will introduce SEMA Live, a livestream of the Show, opening its digital doors to a worldwide audience. Enthusiasts, industry members, and the simply car-curious will be able to tune in to 31 hours of real-time coverage across key events, exhibitor showcases, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. This digital experience will allow remote attendees to engage with the Show from anywhere in the world, offering live product demos, expert interviews, and panel discussions. The livestream brings an added layer of accessibility, ensuring that anyone can experience the innovation and excitement of the Show, even if they can't attend in person. 

Exhibitors Leading the Charge 

This year's exhibitors are also stepping up with innovative products to meet the needs of the marketplace. With over 2,400 exhibitors, including 500 new participants, the event promises to be one of the most comprehensive to date.  

Attendees can explore innovations from leading manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers, ranging from such categories as Racing & Performance, Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road, and Collision Repair & Refinish to Business Services and emerging technologies in the FutureTech Studio. This diverse representation underscores the industry's dynamic growth and the SEMA Show's position as a vital platform for networking, collaboration, and future-looking solutions. 

The SEMA Show will also spill outside the buildings and into the parking lots with multiple outdoor activations, including Battle of the Builders, Overland Experience, Shell "Performance Unbound" Experience, Optima, onX Builder Challenge, Motorcycle Industry Council's Ride With Us Experience, and hundreds of unique and innovative car builds, transforming the Las Vegas Convention Center grounds into a completely immersive and sensory automotive experience. 

To learn more about the 2024 SEMA Show or to register, visit SEMAShow.com. Registration is $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27.  

By SEMA News Editors

Jumpstart your 2024 SEMA Week at the Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, an exclusive celebration of car culture, community and collaboration featuring tire-smoking drift demos from OPTIMA and live performances of chart-topping music from The Goo Goo Dolls, as well as O.A.R. and Reignwolf.

Scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. (PST), 2024 Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls will provide Showgoers with yet another opportunity to come together, celebrate the aftermarket and forge relationships that will drive the industry forward, all following a successful first day of the 2024 SEMA Show.

Open to all SEMA Showgoers and located on the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) campus, Industry Night @ SEMA will bring the aftermarket's many communities together in one place as the association sets the stage for the biggest week of the year, adding to the SEMA Show's already unparalleled slate of opportunities to connect with fellow industry members.

General admission tickets for the event start at $39 (plus taxes and fees), while VIP tickets start at $89 (plus taxes and fees). Tickets are available on SEMAShow.com. Don't wait to secure your tickets--prices will increase as the Show approaches. Note: Industry Night @ SEMA tickets do not include access to the Las Vegas Convention Center SEMA Show exhibit halls.

Click HERE to purchase general admission tickets.

Click HERE to purchase VIP tickets.

For more information on Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, visit SEMAShow.com.

You can keep the celebrations going following the conclusion of the SEMA Show on Friday, November 8, as SEMA Fest returns to the same stage at the LVCC to bookend your SEMA Week experience. Open to the public, SEMA Fest features live music--highlighted by performances from Cage The Elephant, Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey--and heart-pounding OPTIMA motorsports activations, wrapping up the 2024 SEMA Show in style.

Tickets for SEMA Fest are already on sale. Visit SEMAFest.com for more information or to buy your tickets today.

Follow SEMA social media channels to stay up-to-date on 2024 Industry Night @ SEMA and SEMA Fest announcements.

By SEMA News Editors

Jumpstart your 2024 SEMA Week at the Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, an exclusive celebration of car culture, community and collaboration featuring tire-smoking drift demos from OPTIMA and live performances of chart-topping music from The Goo Goo Dolls, as well as O.A.R. and Reignwolf.

Scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. (PST), 2024 Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls will provide Showgoers with yet another opportunity to come together, celebrate the aftermarket and forge relationships that will drive the industry forward, all following a successful first day of the 2024 SEMA Show.

Open to all SEMA Showgoers and located on the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) campus, Industry Night @ SEMA will bring the aftermarket's many communities together in one place as the association sets the stage for the biggest week of the year, adding to the SEMA Show's already unparalleled slate of opportunities to connect with fellow industry members.

General admission tickets for the event start at $39 (plus taxes and fees), while VIP tickets start at $89 (plus taxes and fees). Tickets are available on SEMAShow.com. Don't wait to secure your tickets--prices will increase as the Show approaches. Note: Industry Night @ SEMA tickets do not include access to the Las Vegas Convention Center SEMA Show exhibit halls.

Click HERE to purchase general admission tickets.

Click HERE to purchase VIP tickets.

For more information on Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, visit SEMAShow.com.

You can keep the celebrations going following the conclusion of the SEMA Show on Friday, November 8, as SEMA Fest returns to the same stage at the LVCC to bookend your SEMA Week experience. Open to the public, SEMA Fest features live music--highlighted by performances from Cage The Elephant, Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey--and heart-pounding OPTIMA motorsports activations, wrapping up the 2024 SEMA Show in style.

Tickets for SEMA Fest are already on sale. Visit SEMAFest.com for more information or to buy your tickets today.

Follow SEMA social media channels to stay up-to-date on 2024 Industry Night @ SEMA and SEMA Fest announcements.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has opened submissions for its 2024 Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award at this link.

Now in its second year, the award honors a featured vehicle at the 2024 SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. It also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering. 

"Engineers are continuously pushing the envelope to come up with new innovations that benefit our industry," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "We look forward to seeing the outstanding creations and technical brilliance that this year's builders will bring."  

In 2023, Scorpion EV won the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award for its '23 Cobra Venom. The build was an electric vehicle (EV) conversion car designed to demonstrate the ease with which internal-combustion engine vehicles can be converted to electric power. The car showcased Scorpion EV's Venom EV conversion kit, which solves the challenges related to EV conversions by providing the DIY builder with a complete, turnkey solution. 

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the engineering content included in the build, as well as the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted until October 30, 2024, at this link.

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, November 7, at the 2024 SEMA Show.