The following message is from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

SEMA appreciates the difficult task facing the Democratic Party as it begins its process of identifying a new nominee for president and vice president of the United States. While many issues will be weighed and considered with regard to the pool of emerging candidates, SEMA asks that the party identify and unite around nominees whose values are in line with those of SEMA's members--the 7,000 companies that create, buy, sell and use specialty-automotive parts--as well as the consumers whose support of these businesses help create jobs and fuel a nearly $337 billion in annual economic impact to the U.S. economy.  

SEMA seeks candidates who will: 

• Remain technology-neutral in pursuit of decarbonizing motor vehicles in their environmental policy, including consideration for the many options on the road to zero emissions. Such a candidate will understand the pivotal role of American-grown biofuels, synthetic fuels, hydrogen, carbon capture and innovations in engine systems and fuels for achieving our shared goal of reducing carbon in the atmosphere. 
• Prioritize small business in their economic policy, including support for independent businesses by enabling them to thrive by fostering their ability to reach, support and engage with their customers to the betterment of the marketplace. Such a candidate will champion consumers' rights to decide where and with what parts they can use to repair and maintain their vehicles, as well as policies that ensure independent repair shops, aftermarket businesses and automotive enthusiasts have access to the tools and information necessary to repair and service motor vehicles. 
• Preserve America's recreational use of public lands in their conservation policy, including land-use policies that provide reasonable motorized recreational access to public lands so that off-road enthusiasts can responsibly enjoy their passion. Such a candidate will oppose usage policies that unnecessarily limit access, such as wilderness and national monument designations that are larger than needed to protect unique natural resources. 

When Americans will have their say on Election Day in November, SEMA will highlight candidates on the ballot who share the values that make our nation great: a commitment to the free market, to pragmatic, innovative solutions and to the people who deliver such solutions and bolster the world's strongest economy each and every day. 

The following message is from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

SEMA appreciates the difficult task facing the Democratic Party as it begins its process of identifying a new nominee for president and vice president of the United States. While many issues will be weighed and considered with regard to the pool of emerging candidates, SEMA asks that the party identify and unite around nominees whose values are in line with those of SEMA's members--the 7,000 companies that create, buy, sell and use specialty-automotive parts--as well as the consumers whose support of these businesses help create jobs and fuel a nearly $337 billion in annual economic impact to the U.S. economy.  

SEMA seeks candidates who will: 

• Remain technology-neutral in pursuit of decarbonizing motor vehicles in their environmental policy, including consideration for the many options on the road to zero emissions. Such a candidate will understand the pivotal role of American-grown biofuels, synthetic fuels, hydrogen, carbon capture and innovations in engine systems and fuels for achieving our shared goal of reducing carbon in the atmosphere. 
• Prioritize small business in their economic policy, including support for independent businesses by enabling them to thrive by fostering their ability to reach, support and engage with their customers to the betterment of the marketplace. Such a candidate will champion consumers' rights to decide where and with what parts they can use to repair and maintain their vehicles, as well as policies that ensure independent repair shops, aftermarket businesses and automotive enthusiasts have access to the tools and information necessary to repair and service motor vehicles. 
• Preserve America's recreational use of public lands in their conservation policy, including land-use policies that provide reasonable motorized recreational access to public lands so that off-road enthusiasts can responsibly enjoy their passion. Such a candidate will oppose usage policies that unnecessarily limit access, such as wilderness and national monument designations that are larger than needed to protect unique natural resources. 

When Americans will have their say on Election Day in November, SEMA will highlight candidates on the ballot who share the values that make our nation great: a commitment to the free market, to pragmatic, innovative solutions and to the people who deliver such solutions and bolster the world's strongest economy each and every day. 

By Ashley Reyes

The new "2024 SEMA Market Report" is helping industry members make more informed business decisions by spotlighting new insights into the size and scope of the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Produced by SEMA Market Research, the report is filled with detailed market sizing, information on where consumers shopped for aftermarket parts and accessories in 2023 and key industry trends that are currently impacting the market.             

Here are three ways that SEMA members can leverage the report to help their businesses grow:

1. Strategic Planning

Developing an effective business plan can be cumbersome without the data needed to make informed decisions. The "SEMA Market Report" addresses this challenge by highlighting which products and segments are thriving, and which are falling short, empowering companies to set goals based on data rather than speculation.

For example:

• Pickups have some of the highest accessorization rates of all vehicles, and sales for pickup parts topped $16 billion in 2023.
• The light-truck sector continues to drive the specialty-equipment industry, with pickups (32%), CUVs (15%), and SUVs (12%) accounting for more than half of accessory and performance parts sales.
• Crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) represented 46% of all new vehicles sold in 2023 and have grown to become the largest vehicle segment in the United States.
• Traditional cars (sedans and coupes) have been declining in sales; this drop in cars on the road is reflected in the segment's falling share of specialty part sales as well.

2. Marketing Strategy

Knowing your customers and how to connect with them is imperative for building a successful marketing strategy. The "consumer profile" section of the market report highlights spending patterns based on consumer age, including where consumers are researching and shopping for parts and what type of parts are being bought. This information can help your company better align your messaging, improve your online presence and boost sales and brand awareness.

For example:

• The percentage of accessorizers that look for parts information on search engines and review websites is 51%.
• YouTube remains the top social-media source to find more information on new products.
• Young people continue to drive the market, with half of accessorizers under the age of 40. Younger accessorizers are also likely to do more extensive builds, such as suspension and engine performance mods.

3. Business Expansion

Before expanding business, companies must first evaluate the market's landscape and the needs and preferences of its consumers. The "SEMA Market Report" offers insight into how various segments are doing so that companies can use that information to identify untapped market opportunities, whether that be offering a new product or expanding into new sales channels.    

For example:

• Many people, particularly younger shoppers, are turning to purchase online, pick up in-store options that have become available. These options combine the benefits of shopping from home, while also giving customers the immediacy of store pickup and the option to have a part professionally installed.
• Drivers are accessorizing their alternative power vehicles, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, which brought in $2.5 billion in sales in 2023.
• While EV sales have climbed year-over-year, consumers aren't flocking to this technology as some have predicted and many automakers are adjusting their transition plans. SEMA has lowered its forecast for EV sales, with the expectation that internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will make up the majority of sales over the next decade.
• More than half of accessorizers (56%) own a powersports product, such as a trailer, UTV or motorcycle, which can offer opportunities for cross-selling and promotions.

Overall, automotive specialty-equipment market sales grew to $52.3 billion in 2023, an increase of about 1% over 2022. Over 90% of specialty-equipment businesses surveyed also expect their 2024 sales to equal or exceed 2023. This is positive news as the industry prepares for the SEMA Show later this year, where more than 2,400 brands are set to exhibit and reveal their products and services to thousands of qualified buyers.  

SEMA business members can download the new "2024 SEMA Market Report" for free at www.sema.org/research. To learn more about SEMA membership, visit www.sema.org/membership.

By SEMA News Editors

Competition Clutch Completes ACES and PIES Data, Now Available Through SEMA Data

Competition Clutch ACES and PIES data is now available direct and through the SEMA Data Co-Op.

As part of The Wharton Automotive Group, Competition Clutch now provides the data necessary for its wholesale customers to populate their web sites and ERP systems so they can easily and accurately sell Competition Clutch products, the company said.

"ACES and PIES is a digital tool that allows our customers to populate their websites and their back-end systems with information the customer needs to buy the right Competition Clutch products for their build," said Bob Scheid, vice president of the Wharton Automotive Group.

For more information, visit competitionclutch.com.

I-CAR Announces 2024 Board of Directors Election Results

I-CAR, a provider of educational programming, technical information and related services for the automotive collision repair industry, has announced the results of its 2024 Board of Directors election.

From left to right: Dan Tessadri, Patrick Brunett, Jennifer Goforth and Barry Dorn.

The following candidates were elected to the organization's Board of Directors:

• Dan Tessadri, senior manager, APD process, CSAA Insurance Group; representing Insurance Segment
• Patrick Burnett, vice president, claims operations, USAA; representing Insurance Segment
• Jennifer Goforth, executive director, North America sales, service and marketing, General Motors; representing OEM Segment
• Barry Dorn, vice president, Dorn's Body & Paint, Inc.; representing Collision Repair Segment

For more information, visit i-car.com.

BMW M2 Wins MotorTrend's 2024 Performance Vehicle of the Year

MotorTrend has named the BMW M2 as its 2024 Performance Vehicle of the Year.

The sports car was selected after being evaluated against the following criteria by a group of judges: advancement in design, engineering excellence, performance of intended function, value, efficiency, and driver confidence and engagement. 

"Ultimately, the 2024 BMW M2 is everything enthusiasts say they want," the outlet said. "Small, well-balanced, engaging, and just plain fun whether you're at Road America or on America's roads. It's a serious performance car yet one that requires little to no compromises."

Click here to read the full announcement.

Harbor Freight Tools to Open Chino Hills, California, Store

Tool and shop equipment retailer Harbor Freight Tools will open a new store in Chino Hills, California, on August 3.

The store will stock a full selection of tools and accessories in the automotive, air and power tools, storage, outdoor power equipment, generators, welding supplies, shop equipment, hand tools and other categories.

The Chino Hills location will be the 141st Harbor Freight Tools store in California, the company said, and will employ 25-30.

For more information, visit harborfreight.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is accepting applications from TORA member builders and TORA member exhibiting manufacturers for its feature vehicle program at the 2024 SEMA Show. 

The 2023 TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award went to Custom FN Customs' '72 Chevrolet Blazer.

Through the TORA Feature Vehicle Program, up to 10 unique truck and off-road builds will be displayed as part of the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail located on the outside walkway between North and West Hall at the 2024 SEMA Show. For builders, having a vehicle featured in the program puts their name and talents in front of thousands of SEMA Showgoers who pass through the area during the week of the Show, while exhibiting manufacturers benefit from expanding their footprint and brand beyond their SEMA Show booth.

Submissions are being accepted in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road and CUV crossover. Selected participants will have their build voted on by Showgoers for the chance to win the TORA Best in Show award, which will be announced during a TORA SEMA Show event.

The cost to participate is $1,500, with $500 of that benefiting SEMA Cares, the fundraising arm of the association that supports a variety of children's charities. Get your name out there as a builder; submit your application today. Not a TORA member? Apply here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is accepting applications from TORA member builders and TORA member exhibiting manufacturers for its feature vehicle program at the 2024 SEMA Show. 

The 2023 TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award went to Custom FN Customs' '72 Chevrolet Blazer.

Through the TORA Feature Vehicle Program, up to 10 unique truck and off-road builds will be displayed as part of the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail located on the outside walkway between North and West Hall at the 2024 SEMA Show. For builders, having a vehicle featured in the program puts their name and talents in front of thousands of SEMA Showgoers who pass through the area during the week of the Show, while exhibiting manufacturers benefit from expanding their footprint and brand beyond their SEMA Show booth.

Submissions are being accepted in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road and CUV crossover. Selected participants will have their build voted on by Showgoers for the chance to win the TORA Best in Show award, which will be announced during a TORA SEMA Show event.

The cost to participate is $1,500, with $500 of that benefiting SEMA Cares, the fundraising arm of the association that supports a variety of children's charities. Get your name out there as a builder; submit your application today. Not a TORA member? Apply here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is offering a new webinar to help industry professionals discover the value of implementing an ally program in their business.  

During "Motivating My Company to Have an Ally Mentality and the Value it Brings" on August 20 at 12:00 p.m. PST, attendees will hear from a panel of industry leaders as they share success stories of ally initiatives that they have implemented and how motivating their team members to become an ally has enriched their business.

The session will be moderated by Rachel Speir of RS Marqueting, and feature speakers Melanie White of Hellwig Products, Dawson Druesedow of 4 Wheel Performance and Myles Kovacs of TIS Wheels and Dropstars Wheels. With the speakers representing different company sizes, structures and backgrounds, participants will learn how to build an ally program that is tailored to their team and business model, including methods for measuring success.  

"Women who work in traditionally male-dominated industries are more likely to thrive in environments where they feel supported and valued," said SBN Council Director Nicole Bradle. "This webinar is ideal for companies unfamiliar with the concept of allyship or those looking to start a program but unsure where to begin."

Interested in learning how an ally program can bring value to your organization? Secure your spot for the live webinar, here.

By SEMA News Editors

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. 

Set for November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2024 SEMA Show will once again reveal the future of the aftermarket as attendees connect with thousands of leading manufacturers showcasing the latest products, trends and technology in the industry.

Finding reasons to attend the 2024 SEMA Show is easy, including countless product innovations from new and iconic exhibitors, the latest custom vehicle trends and professional skill-enhancing education sessions led by top industry experts. Attendees can also partake in one-of-a-kind events and features, like the New Product Showcase, the No. 1 destination for discovering the hottest products in the automotive aftermarket industry, the dynamic Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish highlighting the techniques of influential builders, the world-class lineup of SEMA Education seminars and sessions, the newer Overland Experience showcasing customized vehicles in their intended environments and much more (more details can be found at semashow.com/attendee).

To assist professionals in demonstrating the Show's value to their employers, management offers a customizable sample letter to highlight specific benefits relevant to your business or market segment. This ensures that you can effectively communicate the potential impact on your day-to-day responsibilities and long-term business growth. View the SEMA Show sample letter to your boss as a PDF here.

For more information about the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

New images provided to SEMA News show that Audi is making strides on the development of its next-generation performance executive car, transitioning from the RS6 to the RS7.

A testing mule was spotted earlier in the year, according to sources, using modified A6 sedan bodies with wide wheel arches and large twin exhaust pipes integrated into the rear bumper.

The name change is part of Audi's overhaul of its model nomenclature. Audi has confirmed that future even-numbered models will be electric, while odd-numbered ones will continue to feature engines for the foreseeable future.

Details about the powertrain remain scarce. Insiders have indicated that it will be a plug-in hybrid, but it's unclear whether the new RS7 will retain a V8 engine or downsize.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready to wrap up the SEMA Show in style with a night of heart-pounding live music at the SEMA Fest concert featuring live performances by Cage the Elephant, Sublime, Fitz and the Tantrums and Petey! Tickets to the 2024 SEMA Fest go on sale tomorrow, Friday, July 19, at SEMAFEST.com.

Last year, we introduced SEMA Fest, a one-of-a-kind festival that seamlessly blended motorsports, music and car culture. Now, in 2024, we're taking it up a notch by merging SEMA Fest's musical vibes with the automotive attractions of the SEMA Show, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience for car and music lovers alike on Friday, November 8, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

2024 SEMA Fest ticket options include:

• SEMA Fest Concert General Admission (GA): Entry to all SEMA Fest concert GA viewing areas; does not include access to the Las Vegas Convention Center SEMA Show exhibit halls.
• SEMA Fest Concert VIP Access: Exclusive access to the VIP viewing area with premium sightlines; VIP bars and washrooms; separate entrance for VIP pass holders at the entrance; device charging stations; does not include access to the Las Vegas Convention Center SEMA Show Exhibit Halls.

In addition, exclusive tickets are available for the "SEMA Show Friday Enthusiast Experience" for those who do not qualify to attend the SEMA Show. For more details and to secure tickets to SEMA Fest, visit SEMAFEST.com!

Still need to register for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, in the Las Vegas Convention Center? Visit the SEMA Show registration form here. 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. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register.