By SEMA News Editors

New images of the rumored Ferrari F250 have emerged, according to SEMA News sources.

Following in the footsteps of the Enzo, which debuted in 2002, and the LaFerrari in 2013, Ferrari is developing another mid-engine marvel, which is believed to be the closest thing to a Le Mans car for the road, celebrating Ferrari's victory at the endurance race last June.

Details remain scarce, and according to insiders, even the F250 name is unconfirmed. However, it's believed that this will be the first in this line not to feature a V12 engine, instead utilizing the hybridized, 'hot-vee' V6 from the Ferrari 296 GTB. With the 296 GTB producing 932 hp and the hybrid V8 Ferrari SF90 delivering 1,000 hp, it's reasonable to expect the F250 to exceed these figures. A power output of around 1,300 hp, similar to the Gran Turismo concept, is highly likely.

The F250 will stand out from 'normal' Ferraris with its extensive aerodynamics, trusted sources said, and earlier spy shots of a test mule show a car with a massive rear wing, side air vents to feed the mid-mounted engine and a hood scoop reminiscent of the F50. However, it’s unclear from the images whether any of the aero components will be adjustable, although it's likely the F250 will utilize active aero technology similar to the systems on the 296 and SF90.

It is estimated that Ferrari will manufacture around 600 units, in addition to roughly 200 Aperta or Spider variants and a few dozen track-only models.

An official reveal is expected later this year or early 2025.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a huge win for industries impacted by federal overreach. In its decisions in Loper Bright v. Raimondo and Relentless v. Commerce, the high Court has provided increased regulatory certainty to small businesses around the country, including specialty automotive aftermarket companies, that have been adversely impacted by federal regulatory overreach. The Court's decisions overturned what is known as the Chevron Doctrine, which adopted the principle that judges should defer to federal executive branch agencies' interpretations of their powers when the laws that Congress has written are ambiguous or have gaps so long as those interpretations are reasonable. The Court's decision affirms that agencies cannot take actions that are inconsistent with, or not supported by, the language of the laws passed by Congress. 

These precedent-setting decisions will provide opportunities to revisit a wide array of regulations that affect so much of every day life--including issues that directly impact the specialty automotive aftermarket. For the last four decades, many energy, climate, health and safety regulations have been given deferential treatment in federal courts because of the Chevron Doctrine. During this time, federal agencies expanded the scope of regulations beyond congressional intent, which has adversely impacted small businesses that drive the U.S. economy.

This decision restores the checks and balances of our system of governance and rightly places authority back where it belongs: with the elected officials in Congress who are charged with drafting federal laws. The Supreme Court's decisions on these pivotal cases will help to reign in federal regulations where the executive branch has exceeded its statutory authority. 

Questions? Contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a huge win for industries impacted by federal overreach. In its decisions in Loper Bright v. Raimondo and Relentless v. Commerce, the high Court has provided increased regulatory certainty to small businesses around the country, including specialty automotive aftermarket companies, that have been adversely impacted by federal regulatory overreach. The Court's decisions overturned what is known as the Chevron Doctrine, which adopted the principle that judges should defer to federal executive branch agencies' interpretations of their powers when the laws that Congress has written are ambiguous or have gaps so long as those interpretations are reasonable. The Court's decision affirms that agencies cannot take actions that are inconsistent with, or not supported by, the language of the laws passed by Congress. 

These precedent-setting decisions will provide opportunities to revisit a wide array of regulations that affect so much of every day life--including issues that directly impact the specialty automotive aftermarket. For the last four decades, many energy, climate, health and safety regulations have been given deferential treatment in federal courts because of the Chevron Doctrine. During this time, federal agencies expanded the scope of regulations beyond congressional intent, which has adversely impacted small businesses that drive the U.S. economy.

This decision restores the checks and balances of our system of governance and rightly places authority back where it belongs: with the elected officials in Congress who are charged with drafting federal laws. The Supreme Court's decisions on these pivotal cases will help to reign in federal regulations where the executive branch has exceeded its statutory authority. 

Questions? Contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Come Showtime this year, the Las Vegas Convention Center will be filled with the latest products, innovations, technology, displays and services from specialty-equipment market brands during the SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas. Exhibitors can now maximize their impact on the Show floor by entering their products, packaging and merchandising displays into the SEMA Show 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 now open online at SEMAshow.com/newproducts. Show organizers recommend reading the complete rules and regulations online here.

Entering the SEMA Show New Product Showcase is a no-brainer: the first entry is always free of charge and can help build brand awareness, boost booth traffic and generate quality sales leads. And if you're looking to expand to markets beyond the United States, the SEMA Show provides a platform to launch products in 140 represented countries and territories, a reach that is amplified in the New Product Showcase.

All entries are considered and eligible for a New Products Showcase award (formerly Global Media Awards), providing even more brand exposure and recognition.

The SEMA New Product Showcase awards program recognizes the importance of automotive personalization and customization throughout the world. While the industry has strong roots in the United States, the appeal of making cars and trucks fit one's lifestyle is universal. Journalists from around the world attend the SEMA Show to identify new products likely to succeed in their home countries. The participating media represent some of the industry's top magazines and the editors are amongst the most respected in the world. Judges will select 10 products that they feel will most likely succeed in their home country. Exhibitors who have products that were selected will be recognized during a special ceremony at the SEMA Show.

Enter your company's products at SEMAshow.com/newproducts today!

Exhibitors: Learn key dates and find applications and submissions, such as the SEMA Show New Product Showcase, in this year's updated Exhibitor Service Manual. The entire Exhibitor Service Manual is the official exhibitor's handbook for success, in addition to the relationships they form with their SEMA sales representative, the SEMA media team and the SEMA Show department. 

Still have questions? No problem! Contact your SEMA Show sales representative at sales@sema.org, 909-396-0289 or semashow.com/contact. Still need booth space for the 2024 SEMA Show? Get started at SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

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

By SEMA News Editors

Dennis Overholser, one of the co-founders of Painless Performance Products, has retained full ownership of the Fort Worth, Texas-based company. The company offers a diverse range of wiring harnesses, EFI solutions, switch panels and more.

Painless Performance's Dennis Overholser.

Established in 1990, Painless Performance Products has been one of the cornerstones in the automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries, renowned for its solutions that simplify wiring complexities. Overholser's ownership signals a new era of focused leadership and strategic growth for the company, according to a release.

Under Overholser's leadership, Painless Performance Products is poised to expand its product offerings, enhance operational efficiencies and strengthen its position as a market leader.

"We see a bright future ahead for Painless Performance Products," Overholser said. "Our focus remains on driving innovation and meeting the evolving needs of our customers. With ownership restored, we have the agility to respond swiftly to market demands and continue our tradition of excellence."

For more information, visit painlessperformance.com.

LSI Chemical Announces Appointment of Lorenda Stalnaker, Retirement of Julie Blankenship

LSI Chemical, a division of Mt. Gilead, Ohio-based oil and fuel additive manufacturer Lubrication Specialties, has named Lorenda Stalnaker as the company's new business development manager following the retirement of Julie Blankenship.

Lorenda Stalnaker brings more than 20 years of experience to LSI Chemical.

Stalnaker brings more than 20 years of marketing experience in marketing strategy, market development, product management, brand management, public relations and advertising.

Reporting directly to LSI Chemical's Vice President of Research and Development Kevin Adams, Stalnaker will develop the strategy for growing LSI Chemical’s global partnerships and product sales, creating support materials and will represent LSI Chemical at all trade events.

For more information, visit lsichemical.com.

Ben O'Connor Joins Total Seal as Director of New Business

Ben O'Connor, an executive with extensive experience in the high-performance automotive industry, has joined Total Seal, the Phoenix, Arizona-based manufacturer of piston rings, as its new director of new business.

Ben O'Connor of Total Seal.

O'Connor previously served in various roles at Klein Engines, Bear Brake Systems, and Impact Racing.

"O'Connor's skills, vast industry experience, and contacts will be instrumental in driving the company's success," said Matt Hartford, CEO of Total Seal.

Visit totalseal.com for more information.

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

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. 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 Ashley Reyes

Want to participate in educational sessions led by top manufacturers in the hot-rod space? Attend the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals, which will feature seven seminars--scheduled for July 12-13 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio--highlighting important information regarding manufacturers' trending product lines, as well as best practices for installing, working with and choosing certain products.

"We're excited to offer a lineup of seminars that will enrich the knowledge and confidence of the hot-rod community," said HRIA Council Director Marcy Yanus. "By attending the seminars, participants can engage directly with the manufacturers, gain clarification on processes and discover build tips that may be hard to find anywhere else."

Seminars include:

Friday, July 12:

• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Taking the Mystery Out of Tube Bending | Presenter: Trick Tools 
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: The Basics of Hot Rod and Musclecar Air Conditioning | Presenter: Vintage Air
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Instruments and Gauges: The Finishing Touch | Presenter: Classic Instruments

Saturday, July 13:

• 10:15 a.m.–11:00 a.m.: Brake System Basics | Presenter: Wilwood Disc Brakes
• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: An Introduction to Digital Gauge Systems | Presenter: Dakota Digital
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: Modern Suspension Technology for Your Classic Car | Presenter: Detroit Speed
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: So, You Want to Build a Hot Rod? | Presenter: Garret's Rod Shop

Seminars are free to all Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals attendees and pre-registration is not required. Descriptions of each seminar can be found at sema.org/hria-education-days.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Lee Riser, vice president of marketing at RealTruck, Inc., as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Riser was nominated for a spotlight feature by her colleague, Deb Truax. Get to know Riser through Truax's interview with SEMA News below.

SEMA News: How has Lee contributed to the company?

Deb Truax: Lee has been instrumental in coordinating marketing efforts for the RealTruck Accessories division and, most recently, the Jeep and Off-Road division.

SN: How has Lee shown leadership in the industry or business?

DT: Lee has been a very active member of SEMA for almost 20 years. She was a Memorial Scholarship winner in 2005, 2010 and 2013; Young Executives Network (YEN)--now the Future Leaders Network (FLN)--member of the Year in 2009; SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Woman of the Year in 2010; SEMA 35 Under 35 recipient in 2013; and the Light Truck Accessories Alliance (LTAA)--now the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)-- Chairman from 2015-2017.

SN: Tell us a success story that you can share about Lee.

DT: During setup on Sunday for the recent SEMA Show, we suddenly needed to bring more vehicles into the booth. Within 30 minutes, Lee had contacted builders and was able to secure four vehicles into our booth! Anyone who has had to set up a show knows the kind of miracle this took to achieve, and she did it all with a smile and the most positive attitude!

SN: How many years has Lee been in the industry?

DT: 10-plus years.

SN: What quality do you admire most about Lee and why?

DT: She has the most positive "can-do" attitude I've ever seen and is a pleasure to work with in every situation!

SN: Why do you think Lee is a role model in the industry?

DT: She's very active in all aspects of the business--from the office to outside organizations to recreational activities. She actively networks with people from all aspects of the aftermarket and is able to lean on those contacts to facilitate other relationships.

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

SEMA Education is offering a new webinar to help current and upcoming automotive aftermarket professionals understand the infrastructure surrounding the electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) industry. Secure your spot for the webinar here!

Presented by SkillFusion, the webinar "EVSE Infrastructure" on Friday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m. PDT will explore EVSE hardware, software and the intricacies of installation, operation and maintenance. Attendees will hear from Dave Packard, SkillFusion chief strategy officer; Enid Joffe, SkillFusion electrification specialist; and Britta Gross, Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) director of transportation, as they dive into the following topics aimed at providing participants with a holistic view of the infrastructure that supports EV charging:

• Technical Components of EVSE Systems: Learn about the hardware elements that constitute EVSE, from charging stations to power distribution units.
• Software Integration: Grow your understanding of the role of software in EVSE infrastructure, including charging station management, data analytics and user interfaces.
• Installation Best Practices: Discover guidelines and best practices for the effective and safe installation of EVSE systems, considering factors such as location, power requirements and accessibility.
• Operational Considerations: Examine the day-to-day operations of EVSE infrastructure, including user interaction, payment systems and data monitoring.
• Maintenance Protocols: Gain insight into maintenance procedures for ensuring the reliability and longevity of EVSE systems, covering routine checks, troubleshooting and repairs.

As charger reliability and uptime play a significant role in the electric vehicle (EV) owner experience, participating in the webinar presents an excellent opportunity to engage with qualified EVSE experts and stay ahead of emerging opportunities. Secure your spot for the webinar here!

By Ashley Reyes

Excitement is building as the automotive specialty-equipment industry prepares to reunite at the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Among the many highlights at SEMA is the presentation of the prestigious SEMA Council & Network Awards, which honor members who have made significant contributions to their market segments over the past year. Winners will be announced and celebrated at each council and network's reception during the Show, highlighting the recipients' positive impact on the industry, outstanding accomplishments or exceptional business practices.

Visit sema.org/cn-awards to view the criteria for each award and to submit a nomination by the Friday, August 2 deadline.

Nominations are being accepted now for awards in the following categories:

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year.
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year.
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Vanguard Award, Professional of the Year Award.
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award, Business of the Year (Design & Engineering Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award entries will open closer to the SEMA Show).  
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year, Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award. 
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN): #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year.
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Retailer of the Year, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award.  
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Hall of Fame. 

In 2023, Emily Miller, the founder of Rebelle Rally, received the FLN Vanguard Award and TORA Jessi Combs Ambassador of the Year Award for her positive impact on young professionals' careers and her support and awareness of the truck and off-road market. 

Emily Miller (middle), the founder of Rebelle Rally, received both the FLN Vanguard Award and TORA Jessi Combs Ambassador Award for her positive impact on young professionals' careers and the truck and off-road market.

"In the industry, we don't know what we do for awards, but being recognized is really special," said Miller. "When the awards were announced, it prompted some people to reach out and share with me how encouragement and mentorship had helped them in ways I had not imagined."

Miller said the positive results and outcomes of spending time, mentoring, and challenging people are what keeps her focused on what matters most.

Nominees must be members of the council or network for which they are being nominated. Visit sema.org/cn-awards to view the criteria for each award and to submit a nomination by the Friday, August 2 deadline.