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 as part of SEMA's initiative to create a more robust career and professional-development program year-round. Each of the two EV certification sessions will be capped at 20 participants to ensure an intimate, hands-on setting for attendees to upskill themselves with a new understanding of EV powertrains and safety.

By popular demand, Legacy EV will once again offer the "Electric Vehicles 101, Presented by Legacy EV" program on Wednesday, November 6, from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. PST on the SEMA Show campus.

This full-day 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 techs to upskill themselves with a new understanding of EV powertrains. Trainees who complete this course will receive an official "EV101 certification" from Legacy EV. During the training, attendees will work with real EV powertrains and tooling on Legacy EV training benches.

The cost for the "Electric Vehicles 101, Presented by Legacy EV" session is $599. Trainees who complete this course will receive an EV101 certification from Legacy EV.

New for 2024, Legacy EV will also offer "High Voltage Safety Certification Training, Presented by Legacy EV" on Thursday, November 7, from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. PST at the SEMA Show. Attendees who will benefit from this course are those who work with or sell high-voltage retail and products; service high-voltage components or vehicles; build, manufacture or assemble high-voltage components or vehicles; and manage high-voltage vehicle technicians. Guests will complete two to four hours of online pre-course work before this eight-hour in-person session in Vegas. Topics include "Creating an Electrically Safe Work Condition" and "High-Voltage Batteries and Battery Management Systems."

Once successfully completed, attendees of this session 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.

Stay tuned for more details on the world-class SEMA Education program for 2024, including the announcement of partner education tracks and the overall keynote speaker program.

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. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show is still accepting applications for its Feature Vehicle Display but the deadline is quickly approaching. Exhibitors wishing to expand their show footprint must submit their application by Friday, July 26, to be considered.

Every year, the Las Vegas Convention Center is filled with hundreds of world-class vehicles and builds as part of the exclusive Feature Vehicle Display at the SEMA Show. The cars--which span all categories and applications of the aftermarket--are submitted by Show exhibitors looking to expand their footprint beyond their booth.

Applications for the 2024 SEMA Show Feature Vehicle Display are now open online here. Show organizers recommend reading the complete rules and regulations online here to improve your vehicle's acceptance chances.

The program is a gateway to success, directing industry professionals, decision-makers, buyers, media members and influencers to exhibitors' booths and providing invaluable pre-Show exposure. Each vehicle accepted into this program will be among the features in the SEMA Show app, showcasing its image, make, model, year, color, products used in the build, builder's name, and the name and booth number of the sponsoring exhibitor company.

Feature Vehicle Display applications are due Friday, July 26. For a complete list of SEMA Show deadlines, visit here. For more information on Feature Vehicle Display and the SEMA Battle of the Builders, contact Maurice O'Connell at mauriceo@sema.org.

The SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB), Presented by Mothers

Those who submit an application may request information on how to enter their vehicle for the SEMA Battle of the Builders. Industry experts judge the competition with awards presented to individuals with extreme talent, creativity and craftsmanship in modifying cars, trucks and SUVs.

For more information on SEMA Battle of the Builders, contact botb@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Vantrue, a company focused on dash cam creation, as the council's newest member spotlight company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with Shang Chun, Vantrue manager, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of Vantrue. How did the company start?  

Shan Chun: Established in 2015, Vantrue quickly became a pioneer in the field of smart life. Vantrue quickly became an advanced explorer in the field of intelligent technology. Our awareness of innovation, sensory enjoyment, and ease of use are our constant goals. 

SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about? 

SC: Recently, we released the industry's first N5 with four front-camera cameras, which is suitable for SUVs, school buses and multi-purpose vehicles, and solves the problem of rear-seat and trunk shooting.  

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket? 

SC: The aftermarket is big, and we need to have the passion and patience to create products that drivers prefer.

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

In the dynamic world of the specialty-equipment automotive aftermarket, maintaining top-notch data quality is not just important--it's essential. Rigorous data management ensures accurate product content across reseller platforms, minimizes purchasing errors, and empowers resellers to streamline their operations, delight customers, and boost sales.

Released in February 2024, the SEMA Data Scorecard v3 is a comprehensive tool designed to guide manufacturers in improving the quality of their product data. This new version introduces more stringent requirements for attaining the SEMA Data Excellence status. With each tier--Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum--comes the challenge of creating and cataloging additional fields of product information.

As we gear up for the 2024 SEMA Show this November, SEMA Data is getting ready to honor brands that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to data proficiency through its SEMA Data Excellence Awards. These awards, presented during the SEMA Data Users Group Meetup on Monday afternoon, commend those manufacturers who have met the stringent data requirements of the v3 Scorecard and industry data standards. For the Gold level, 100% coverage on designated fields is necessary. The Platinum level, however, goes beyond just data completeness, requiring adherence to qualitative standards. Those with data scoring Gold and Platinum status are distinguished as having achieved Data Excellence.

"The SEMA Data Excellence Awards incentivizes brands to provide the very best, accurate and comprehensive product and technical data for customers," said Gigi Ho, SEMA vice president of technology, data and strategic initiatives. "This enables resellers to receive complete and precise product data to power their systems, point of sale and eCommerce stores."

As of July 2024, the top contenders for the 2024 SEMA Data Excellence Awards are Advanced Clutch Technology, Inc., Borgeson Universal Company, and LEED Brakes--all of which hold a Platinum ranking.

"We find that the higher data quality we provide, the more interest we get from retailers, especially online retailers," said Jeff Grantmeyer, sales manager at Borgeson. "Boregson strives to create and maintain the highest-quality product data, and I take personal pride in this. When I first heard about the new scorecard changes at the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council Media Trade Conference, I believe my response was 'challenge accepted.'" Grantmeyer said he then made it his mission to rework the Borgeson product data to achieve the new Platinum status.

While manufacturers benefit from enhanced reseller partnerships, well-organized data makes it easier for customers to make informed decisions when shopping for automotive parts. Without it, customers may struggle to find the exact part they need or end up buying incorrect parts that do not fit or function properly. Accurate data ensures that customers can buy from brands they trust.

For resellers, being able to access the most current and comprehensive product data is invaluable. Not only is SEMA Data the largest industry product database with more than 650 brands and a collective inventory of more than 4.5 million parts, but their unique approach enables resellers to access data exports in exactly the right format for their systems, whether that be full PIES and ACES XML, or a custom spreadsheet format. To date, more than 4,750 resellers are signed up with SEMA Data, including all major warehouse distributors and retailers in the industry, and chain stores like AutoZone and O'Reilly. This underscores the critical importance for manufacturers to produce industry-leading product data sets.

In addition to receiving a trophy, SEMA Data Excellence Award recipients gain widespread recognition in SEMA News and SEMA social media. Honorees are also prominently featured in the SEMA Show Banquet program, as well as on carpet ads on the SEMA Show floor near their booth and in the Featured Products Showcase area, ensuring maximum visibility.

"Achieving data excellence is no small feat and requires diligence and commitment," said Ho. "We look forward to celebrating this great achievement made by our manufacturers and highlighting them for their dedication."

To learn more about the SEMA Data, including its benefits and discounts available to SEMA members, visit www.semadata.org.

The following brands have achieved a Gold status ranking. As they continue their work toward Platinum status, resellers can be assured that each product has 100% of the key fields of information, from descriptions and features and benefits to images, attributes and pricing.

• Bak Industries
• BD Diesel
• Belltech
• Boostline
• CamLocker
• CSF Cooling
• Extang
• Form Lighting
• FOX Offroad Shocks
• GATE KING
• IAG Performance
• KW
• MagnaFlow Exhaust Products    
• MBRP Exhaust
• Nolathane
• Oracle Lighting
• Pacbrake
• Raxiom
• Retrax
• Rugged Liner
• ST Suspensions
• TI Automotive
• Timbren SES
• Tonno Pro
• Truxedo
• Undercover

By SEMA News Editors

ENSO to Build $500 Million Carbon-Neutral Tire Factory in the United States

ENSO, an electric-vehicle (EV) tire manufacturer, has announced plans to build a $500 million, carbon-neutral tire factory in the United States.

The facility will be carbon-neutral without purchased offsets and will utilize carbon-neutral raw materials, building materials and 100% renewable energy. Backed by U.S.-based technology partners Rockwell and Arup, as well as investors 8090 Industries and Galway Sustainable Capital, the company aims to produce 5 million EV tires by 2027 and create 600 jobs at the new facility, then expand production to 20 million tires when fully built.

The company is considering locations in Colorado, Nevada, Texas and Georgia, among other states, according to the company.

For more information, visit ensotyres.com.

Northwood University Taps Industry Veteran for Inaugural Professor of Automotive Strategy Role

Northwood University in Midland, Michigan, has selected David Oventhal, an industry veteran with more than two decades of experience, as its first-ever Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy.

Oventhal's experience in the field involves teaching industry professionals at Royal Enfield Motors and Kawasaki Motors Corp. In recent years, he has served as a senior product planner for Super73, a contract facilitator for the Motorcycle Industry Council, group manager for product strategy for Royal Enfield Motors, senior manager for corporate research and product management at Kawasaki Motors Corp., and a technical call center manager at American Honda Motor Co. He is also the president and founder of NXT Mobility.

"The creation of this professorship broadens Northwood's role as the market leader for undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs for the North American automotive industry," said Matthew Bennett, vice president of strategic alliances and the Center for Automotive and Mobility Studies. "Dr. Oventhal brings a unique set of knowledge, skills, and experience to Northwood, and we look forward to what he will accomplish as he aims to excite, empower, and educate future industry professionals."

Northwood received a $500,000 gift from distributor Subaru of New England, an industry-leading organization and well-respected brand in the automotive sector, to fund a new automotive strategy professorship.

For more information, visit northwood.edu.

Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

EMPI, a provider of a variety of parts for Volkswagen and Porsche, recently hosted an open house at its Anaheim, California, facility.

According to the company, more than 4,500 enthusiasts and 400 Volkswagen and Porsches attended the event and corresponding car show, which also included the first-ever "Engine Battle" and a chassis dynamometer shootout.

The open house included tours of the EMPI shop and manufacturing space, a garage sale, supplier displays and a raffle, as well as additional entertainment, like a pop-up video and pinball arcade, food trucks and more.

The company is also planning another open house in 2026 to coincide with EMPI's 70th anniversary.

For more information, visit empius.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Automotive restylers have a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity and talents in front of thousands of SEMA Show attendees by applying for the 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge.

Organized by the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), the program invites automotive restylers to design an accessory package for a new-model car or truck that is marketable, easy to replicate and profitable to dealerships. Six competitors will be selected to display their build in the PRO booth in the West Hall of the SEMA Show, where it will be voted on by industry judges and SEMA Show attendees for the chance to win one of two coveted awards.

Below are five compelling reasons to apply for the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge:

1. Gain Industry Recognition: Participating companies gain exposure and recognition, both leading up to and during the SEMA Show, enhancing their credibility and reputation.
2. Participate in Networking Opportunities: The challenge provides a platform to connect with industry leaders and potential clients, fostering valuable relationships.
3. Receive Marketing and Promotional Support: Competitors receive marketing and promotional support through SEMA's channels, increasing their visibility and brand awareness.
4. Boost Skill Development: The competition encourages innovation and creativity, helping participants refine their skills and stay updated with industry trends and standards.
5. Enhance Business Growth: Winning or even participating in the challenge can attract new business opportunities, contributing to business growth.

In 2023, VIP Distributing Company won the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award for the company's accessory package for the '23 GMC Yukon Denali. The package featured a No More Chrome Premium Blackout Package, Llumar Window Tint (Front 2), Llumar Air 80 Windshield Tint, ERA Paints Paint Brake Calipers and Cardinal Paints Powder Coast Exhaust Tips.

VIP Distributing Company's '23 GMC Yukon Denali

Applications for the 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge are due August 9, 2024. Selected applicants will be required to submit a build sheet with the basic idea of their package by September 6, 2024. For full build criteria and to apply, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge.

Questions can be directed to PRO Council Director Denise Waddingham at deniselw@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola will join a distinguished panel of automotive and fuel industry executives on Thursday, August 15, at the Pebble Beach Classic Car Forum in Pebble Beach, California, to discuss the future of automotive propulsion technologies. Purchase tickets here.

Hosted by Richard Varner, chairman of the board of the Petersen Automotive Museum, "It's Not Politics, It's Innovation: The Future of Automotive Technology" will feature Spagnola; Ford CEO Jim Farley; President of the Yamaha Marine Group Ben Speciale; President of Americas Products - Chevron Andy Walz; and Senior Vice President of Product, BEV and Mobility Planning and Strategy for Toyota Motor North America Cooper Ericksen.

Curated by SEMA and the Petersen Automotive Museum, the panel will provide insight into the future of automotive fuel technologies and the challenges created by the current "rush to electrification." Attendees will learn more about the development and usage of new low and zero-emissions vehicle technologies in the pursuit to lower vehicle emissions, as well as efforts to protect the rights of American consumers to choose options that best suit their needs.

For more information or to purchase tickets for the Pebble Beach Classic Car Forum, visit theconcoursstore.com/collections/forums/products/ccf2024-future-of-automotive-technology. 

By Juan Torres 

The SEMA Show Online Media Center is now available for exhibiting companies to upload SEMA Show-related press releases. Exhibitors can post Show-related press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness among attendees and media members and possibly be included in SEMA publications and promotions. 

With thousands of media covering the SEMA Show, the Online Media Center provides exhibiting companies opportunities to spotlight their products, make pre-Show announcements and direct media to their booths in the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 5-8.  

Here are a few press release submission tips:  

• Post early. Media run preview stories with deadlines beginning in July. 
• Use a strong, short headline that will catch the media's attention.  
• Keep the press release brief. Journalists want to know what the press release is about right from the beginning.  
• Include a photo; releases with photos are more likely to be used. Submit photos in a high-resolution (300-dpi) image format.
• When you upload a press release, make sure it's tagged correctly. Many editors use the site's search function to find relevant news. 
• Always include your booth number and contact information.  

To learn more about the Online Media Center, or other PR resources, like press conferences, available to SEMA Show exhibitors, contact pr@sema.org.  

Have other Show-related questions? Contact your SEMA Show sales representative at sales@sema.org, +1 909-396-0289 or semashow.com/contact. Still need booth space for the 2024 SEMA Show? Get started at SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

By SEMA News Editors

Music and car culture have always shared a close connection. Ask any car enthusiast, and they'll probably list their favorite tracks for cruising. Since 2011, SEMA has been nurturing the relationship between the industry and the enthusiast audience, evolving from SEMA Show's coveted SEMA Cruise to SEMA Ignited in 2014 and, in 2021, the SEMA Show Friday Enthusiast Experience.

In 2023, 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.

What to expect for the 2024 SEMA Fest and the SEMA Show Friday Enthusiast Experience:

• SEMA Fest's live music element moves to the SEMA Show campus at the Las Vegas Convention Center, further fusing the passion for car culture with the community’s love for music.
• Get access to the SEMA Show exhibition halls and the opportunity to celebrate car culture with motorsports activations, thousands of show cars, and so much more with the SEMA Show Friday Enthusiast Experience.
• Rock out with top musical acts at the SEMA Fest Concert Stage on Friday, November 8, after the SEMA Show ends!

Headlining talent and ticket details are coming next week. When you sign up on semafest.com, you will also be eligible for the pre-sale event for this year's SEMA Fest concert tickets.

General questions? Contact info@semafest.com. Sponsorship and partnership questions? Contact partnership@semafest.com.