By SEMA News Editors

Meyer Distributing Opens New Location in Abbotsford, British Columbia

Meyer Distributing has opened a new Canadian location in Abbotsford, British Columbia.

The cross-dock will have a direct feed from Meyer's Hermiston, Oregon, distribution hub, which houses an inventory of crash and collision, 4x4 and off-road, RV and trailer parts and products.

"The Abbotsford, British Columbia, dock is an exciting expansion for Meyer," said Jeff Braun, CEO. "We are going to bring logistics to the table in British Columbia in a way that is going to save customers a lot of money. We will be covering Vancouver Island to Surrey to Kelowna, and this will help bring a lower landed cost and better competition to the British Columbia markets that haven't had an effective alternative for a long time."

For more information, visit meyerdistributing.com.

WernerCo Rebrands as ProDriven Global Brands

WernerCo, the parent company of WEATHER GUARD, KNAACK and other brands, has rebranded as ProDriven Global Brands.

"The name change represents a significant multi-year transformation in our company," said Gary Scott, CEO of ProDriven Global Brands. "This company began as a single safe access brand in North America. As we've continued to grow the Werner brand, we've also developed an expansive brand portfolio serving a variety of professionals and industries across the globe. The new name is representative of the company's focus, scope and global reach."

The change will have no impact on the company's brands, product offerings or business partnerships.

For more information, visit prodrivenbrands.com.

Vehlo Acquires Shop-Ware Shop Management Software

Vehlo, a provider of software and financial solutions for the automotive industry, has acquired Shop-Ware, a cloud-based shop management platform for independent repair shops.

Shop-Ware CEO Carolyn Coquillette founded Shop-Ware in 2013 out of her own repair shop in San Francisco. Coquillette will continue to lead Shop-Ware as part of Vehlo's aftermarket leadership team.

For more information, visit vehlo.com.

By SEMA News Editors

BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe Drops Heavy Camo in Germany

The next-generation BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe was recently spotted with less camouflage ahead of its expected reveal later this year.

The prototype maintains a sleek profile but with fewer sharp angles compared to the current model. Although interior photos haven’t surfaced yet, it’s likely to feature a curved display and a streamlined button layout, according to insiders.

The upcoming 2-Series Gran Coupe is expected to be built on an updated version of the UKL2 platform, and likely means the new model will offer front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on some versions. While the exact powertrain details are still unknown, the new model may offer some hybrid assistance, sources said. The current version includes options for turbocharged gasoline engines and turbo diesel engines.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 Spotted Ahead of Full Refresh

Hyundai is developing a mid-cycle update for the IONIQ 6, according to new images provided to SEMA News.

Hyundai is working to enhance the IONIQ 6, aiming to boost the sales of its second model based on the e-GMP platform. The facelift will introduce a range of new features.

Hyundai also plans to upgrade the powertrain, replacing the lithium-ion battery with a larger one, which is expected to increase the electric vehicle's range to around 425 miles, sources said. It will also continue to be available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.

Additionally, Hyundai is developing the IONIQ 6 N, a high-performance variant. Production is expected to begin in the first half of 2025.

Kia EV6 GT Spied Testing in Germany

SEMA News sources recently spotted a prototype of a facelifted Kia EV6 GT in Germany.

The current model features battery capacities of either 58 kWh or 77.4 kWh, which insiders expect to remain unchanged. The GT variant boasts two motors with a combined peak output of 585 hp and a top speed of 162 mph.

However, changes to the front and rear bumpers, as well as the graphics of the front and rear lights, are expected. Sources are also anticipating new wheel and color options and an updated interior.

By SEMA News Editors

Showgoers can claim exclusive airline discounts for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas. With these deals straight from exclusive SEMA Show partners--detailed at the bottom of this article--you can save big on your plane tickets for this year's event. 

In addition, hotel reservations for the 2024 SEMA Show are open online here with the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas, so early reservations are encouraged.

Available 2024 SEMA Show airline discounts:

Alaska Airlines

• Discount: 7% off published fares. 
• Valid Travel Dates: October 27-November 8, 2024.
• Online Reservations: Visit alaskaair.com and enter discount code ECMK491 
• Phone Reservations: Contact Group Desk at 1-800-445-4435. A $15 per person ticketing fee will be applied to phone reservations. 

Delta Air Lines 

• Discount: Special fares for SEMA Showgoers.
• Online Reservations: Visit the Delta Air Lines special link here.
• Phone Reservations: Contact Delta Meeting Network at 1-800-328-1111, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. EST, and refer to Meeting Event Code NM3PY. There is no service fee for reservations booked and ticketed through the 800 number.

United Airlines 

• Discount: 2% to 10% off based on origin location. 
• Valid Travel Dates: November 2-11, 2024. 
• Online Reservations: Click on discount code ZPKE658685 or visit the special link here. 
• Phone Reservations: Please note that a service fee will be collected per ticket when booking by phone. Contact United Meetings at 1-800-426-1122 and provide them with the following information: 
  • Z Code: ZPKE.
  • Agreement Code: 658685. 

Attendee, buyer and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show has been open at semashow.com/register. Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts (more details here) and Show badge discounts. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27. After, the price will increase to $120 per approved badge. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris made her highly anticipated selection of a running mate, tapping two-term Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Gov. Walz is a veteran and previously served six terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Here's what SEMA and PRI members should know about the pick, straight from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office: 

He led Minnesota in becoming a CARB state. Climate policy is a core issue for his administration. During his tenure as governor, Minnesota became a "CARB state," a state that has adopted California's vehicle emissions standards. This plan has been subject to litigation by the Minnesota Auto Dealers Association, which opposes Minnesota's clean cars plan and asserts that the state is not allowed to delegate its authority to CARB regulators in California. 

Walz knows cars. Walz, a former public school teacher, once delivered an impromptu lesson in auto repair while on the campaign trail, in the process going viral online for his folksy, clear explanation of the problem and fix. 

Walz is a Midwesterner. Walz was born in Nebraska and entered the public eye as representative of a significantly rural congressional district in southern Minnesota. His Midwestern appeal is seen by some as a counterweight to Harris's California roots--particularly as she attempts to win over rural and working-class voters who largely lean toward Donald Trump. 

The SEMA Public and Government Affairs team is advocating for policy issues that are core to SEMA's mission by ensuring policymakers hear a clear, strong and unified voice representing not only SEMA members, but also the specialty-equipment industry and auto enthusiasts. Get involved and contact the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at sema.org/advocacy.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris made her highly anticipated selection of a running mate, tapping two-term Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Gov. Walz is a veteran and previously served six terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Here's what SEMA and PRI members should know about the pick, straight from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office: 

He led Minnesota in becoming a CARB state. Climate policy is a core issue for his administration. During his tenure as governor, Minnesota became a "CARB state," a state that has adopted California's vehicle emissions standards. This plan has been subject to litigation by the Minnesota Auto Dealers Association, which opposes Minnesota's clean cars plan and asserts that the state is not allowed to delegate its authority to CARB regulators in California. 

Walz knows cars. Walz, a former public school teacher, once delivered an impromptu lesson in auto repair while on the campaign trail, in the process going viral online for his folksy, clear explanation of the problem and fix. 

Walz is a Midwesterner. Walz was born in Nebraska and entered the public eye as representative of a significantly rural congressional district in southern Minnesota. His Midwestern appeal is seen by some as a counterweight to Harris's California roots--particularly as she attempts to win over rural and working-class voters who largely lean toward Donald Trump. 

The SEMA Public and Government Affairs team is advocating for policy issues that are core to SEMA's mission by ensuring policymakers hear a clear, strong and unified voice representing not only SEMA members, but also the specialty-equipment industry and auto enthusiasts. Get involved and contact the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at sema.org/advocacy.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Denise Clumpner, show car director at Iola Old Car Show, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Clumpner in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there? 

Denise Clumpner: I was offered my position in November of 2019 as show car director. I enjoy the incredible teamwork in our organization and how we empower each other. I enjoy having the freedom to hunt for and invite vehicles to our show and seeing all the people smiling each year and sharing stories and experiences with their vehicles. At the Iola Car Show, we are a family! We have generations of families, including my own, that would never miss this event.

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

DC: I hold a position that was something I dreamed of as a young kid, watching this show evolve into the largest show in the Midwest. I grew up just down the road from Iola, and the people who started this show were friends and contemporaries of my father. We always had unique vehicles coming and going, and I loved them. A man named Ken Buttolph was the Iola Old Car Show's in-house expert, and he created our invitational Blue Ribbon Concours area. The day I received an invitation to display my '69 GTO on the concours was an incredible honor, and Ken was a dear friend until his passing. I work hard each day to honor his memory and the quality he put into this show. Although I am referred to here as "the car expert" my goal will always be to have half the knowledge Kenny had.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?  

DC: I have been a car nut my entire life, but my first job in the industry was at my family's business, the Ogdensburg Garage. We ran a Mobil station, auto repair shop and used car/truck dealership. I started out sweeping floors and cleaning the shop, and gradually took on more responsibilities as I learned the business. I worked full-time hours during the summer, and when I could during the school year. I earned enough money to buy my first car, a '69 GTO, and restore it in time to debut it at Iola '81 when I was eighteen. I still own and show the car today and have added several more vehicles to my collection.

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

DC: I am extremely determined, and I believe in my abilities. I want to achieve something, I work very hard to do that and don't allow myself to become distracted. I also find it helpful to know my limitations and when to ask for help. I also have an "I-can-do-it" attitude and enjoy empowering others.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

DC: Challenges: overcoming stereotypes of what women are "expected" to know about cars.

Accomplishments: Blowing all those stereotypes out of the water and helping bring about cultural change by empowering girls and women to get involved with great vehicles. I am honored when people come to me for help and guidance.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?   

DC: My family members (especially my dad and brother), all our local car buffs/collectors and everyone who put together and brought their cars to the Iola Old Car Show have always been my mentors. It is tough to choose though because there have been so many.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

DC: How hard you work and how you treat people determines the outcome of your efforts. Let others see and share your enthusiasm! They will want to be a part of it.

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here? 

DC: Yes, I have always wanted to work in the automotive industry but ended up being a teacher. I have been a lifelong car lover and have owned my GTO for 43 years. I am happy that after retiring, I have been able to make my passion into not only a position for the Iola Old Car Show, but also as my own business. I also appraise and pre-purchase inspect classic vehicles for customers and subcontract for classic vehicle dealerships. I love it!

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals? 

DC: My parents. They never said that I had a "role" to play because I was a female. They encouraged me to do my best and make good decisions for my future. My father started his own business at the age of 19, and at the age of 88 still works there today with my brother.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.  

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Emerging Trends & Network (ETTN) is offering two new webinars focusing on the role of hydrocarbon traps and fuel-injection sprays in product design and emissions compliance. 

Geared towards engineers, programmers and product developers, the webinars will be led by subject-matter experts who will share best practices for product design, execution and achieving peak engine performance.

Register now for:

Emissions Compliance: A Path Forward for Hydrocarbon Traps

Presenters: Peter Treydte, emissions compliance manager at SEMA; Shawn Abraham, certification engineer at SEMA; Erik Versen, global manager and USMCA commercial manager at Ingevity

August 27, 2024, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. PDT

Register here for Emissions Compliance.

If you manufacture aftermarket air-intake systems, then you are aware (or at least you should be) of the importance of hydrocarbon traps. During this session, attendees will learn what hydrocarbon traps are, what they do, how to incorporate them into your air-intake design and how to achieve emissions compliance. SEMA has worked on this issue for many years and has finally reached an agreement with California Air Resources Board (CARB) on a test method, which will be shared in this session.

Visualizing Fuel Injection Spray Characteristics That Impact Engine Efficiency, Emissions and Performance

Presenters: Paulius Puzinauskas and Josh Bittle, associate professors at the University of Alabama

September 10, 2024, 1 p.m. PDT – 2 p.m. PDT

Register here for Visualizing Fuel Injection Spray Characteristics.

Fuel-injection characteristics strongly impact emissions, efficiency and power for all types of engines. This is most pronounced in diesel engines since combustion is coupled with the spray, but it’s also significant in spark-ignited engines using liquid or gaseous fuels. In all cases, the most significant pathway to this impact is through fuel-air mixture effects.

This presentation will cover multiple optical techniques used at the University of Alabama to document and quantify liquid spray penetration, liquid-to-vapor evaporation and fuel vapor-air mixing, as well as ignition and sooting behavior of diesel sprays. By understanding these characteristics, you can gain insight into optimization efforts of injector design and placement, as well as injection operational parameters such as injection pressure and timing. The techniques described include high-speed imaging, color-schlieren imaging and OH Chemiluminescence, and two-color pyrometry.

The mission of the SEMA ETTN is to identify, communicate and provide automotive aftermarket engineers, programmers, and product developers with the knowledge of emerging vehicle trends and new technology to ensure continued success. To learn more about the network, how to join and other available resources, visit sema.org/ettn. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is hosting a networking mixer at the Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Club Invasion in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The event is scheduled for August 22, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (EDT) at the Residence Inn & Suites.

TORA members are invited to attend the mixer, where they will grow their professional network and learn about industry resources for truck and off-road automotive aftermarket businesses. Attendees will meet the TORA select committee, discover open volunteer opportunities and forge valuable relationships with leaders who represent different areas of the truck and off-road market. Light snacks and drinks will be served.

Prospective TORA members are invited to attend the mixer, as it's a great way to introduce yourself and learn what TORA membership has to offer. 

RSVP here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Education is offering three new webinars this summer that will help industry members learn about pivotal topics shaping the current landscape and future of the specialty-equipment industry.  

Taking place on August 14, August 21 and September 11, the live online sessions will feature subject matter experts from leading organizations sharing valuable insights and best practices that attendees can use to grow their careers, gain new perspectives and transform their business.     

Registration is free. Sign up now to learn about: 

How to Exceed Customer Satisfaction With Daily Management

Presenter: Mario Iannantuono, managing partner, Quantum Leap Partners

August 14, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. (PDT)

Register here.

Need a refresher on best practices for building a better team and improving your business? This session will offer practical and proven methods to ensure your team exceeds customer satisfaction each and every day. Learning objectives include:

• Practical tools for exceeding your customer’s expectations.
• Practical visual tools for monitoring the success of the team.
• Practical visual tools for monitoring the areas of opportunity of the team.
• Practical visual tools on ownership, accountability and development of the team.

Tips for Thinking Like a Futurist

Presenter: Jennifer Brace, chief futurist, Ford Motor Company

August 21, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. (PDT)

Register here.

Are you ready for the future? Many assume that tomorrow will look just like today, however, with the fast pace of change and the plethora of events outside of our control, the future is uncertain. During this session, attendees will gain tips for preparing for the uncertain future and thinking like a futurist. Key takeaways include:  

• Strategies to build a future of choice for your business and consumers.
• How you can own the way you prepare for the uncertain future through long-term thinking, planning and strategic development.
• Insightful tips and approach to plan and prepare for the future.

Reimagine Aftermarket Service: A Guide to Digitizing Your Operations for Success

Presenter: Manbir Singh, digital transformation leader, Kyndryl

September 11, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. (PDT)

Register here.

In today's competitive landscape, aftermarket service operations are no longer a mere afterthought; customers are demanding faster, more efficient, and personalized service experiences. This webinar will teach attendees how to digitize their aftermarket service operations. During this session, attendees will learn:  

• How digital tools can streamline communication, improve service transparency and personalize the customer journey.
• How automation, data-driven decision-making and real-time insights can optimize processes, reduce costs and improve first-time fix rates.
• How leveraging digital technologies can differentiate your brand and unlock new revenue streams in the aftermarket service space.

Participating in these webinars is an excellent way to ensure your business has the tools and insight needed to succeed in the present and the future. Register today!

By SEMA News Editors

Attendees of the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, in Las Vegas, have the exclusive opportunity to become electric-vehicle (EV) and EV-safety certified through the Show's comprehensive education program focused on professional and business advancement.

Presented by SEMA Education and Legacy EV, the "Electric Vehicles 101" and "High-Voltage Safety Certification Training" education sessions will help attendees boost their knowledge and understanding of EV powertrains and safety. Each of the sessions will be limited to 20 participants to ensure an intimate, hands-on setting where students will gain the skills needed to excel in the evolving and dynamic EV market.       

"What makes these courses unique is the hands-on experience students gain by working with EV equipment and wiring right in the classroom during the SEMA Show," said Mavrick Knoles, co-founder and president of Legacy EV. "Participants will not only walk away with valuable experience but can also credit the cost of both of these sessions towards a comprehensive Legacy EV Certified Technician course post-SEMA Show."

Registration is now open for:

• Electric Vehicles 101, Presented by Legacy EV - Wednesday, November 6, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.:

This course is divided into two sessions--"Understanding EV Anatomy and Electrical Theory" and "Applications with EV Specifications, EV Tooling, HV Safety"--and offers a brand-agnostic and hands-on training opportunity for automotive technicians to gain understanding of EV powertrains. During this class, students will work with real EV powertrains and tooling on Legacy EV training benches. Trainees who complete this course will receive an official "EV101 certification" from Legacy EV. The cost for this session is $599. To register for "Electric Vehicle 101, Presented by Legacy EV," click here. 

• High Voltage Safety Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV - Thursday, November 7, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.: 

New for 2024, this course is geared towards those who work with or sell high-voltage products; service high-voltage components or vehicles; build, manufacture or assemble high-voltage components or vehicles; and manage high-voltage vehicle technicians. Participants will learn about "Creating an Electrically Safe Work Condition" and "High-Voltage Batteries and Battery Management Systems." Trainees who complete this course will receive a Legacy EV Level 1 High-Voltage Safety certification, a Legacy EV Level 2 High-Voltage Safety certification and a digital badge and physical certificate. Two to four hours of online pre-course work is required before this eight-hour in-person session in Las Vegas. The cost for this session is $1,399. To register for "High Voltage Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV," click here.

In 2023, Richard Forstner, supervisor of damage appraisal at Element Fleet Management, participated in the EV 101 course at the SEMA Show.

"My employer manages every vehicle type including upfitted trucks, which in some cases, have aftermarket EV conversions, so taking this course helped strengthen my career as an EV subject matter expert," said Forstner. "The instruction by Legacy EV was first rate and I liked the structure and pace of the course." Forstner said the course aided him in problem solving some of the challenges that arise from outside vendors as well as analyzing crash damage.  

Monica Baeza, port senior equipment mechanic at Port of Oakland, also took the EV 101 course, noting that the biggest value of the training was the hands-on component. "It has given me the confidence and knowledge to navigate the transition and management of a growing EV fleet. I am more able to engage in the conversations in a knowledgeable way and add value to work that we are doing."

The Legacy EV sessions are part of a robust 2024 SEMA Show education program designed to help industry professionals enhance their leadership and business development, gain insight into emerging trends, and discover industry best practices from top experts in the aftermarket field.

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 2,400 exhibitors projected to display the latest products and services to thousands of attendees and media.

"The SEMA Show is a global platform to showcase the latest trends, innovations, and future of the automotive aftermarket. Education is a cornerstone of the Show designed to help our members address their most significant challenges," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "The 2024 program has been created to showcase takeaways and information that attendees can immediately utilize to improve and strengthen their businesses."

To register for "Electric Vehicle 101, Presented by Legacy EV," click here.

To register for "High Voltage Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV," click here.

Attendee, buyer and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show has been open at semashow.com/register. Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts (more details here) and Show badge discounts. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27. After, the price will increase to $120 per approved badge. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show.