From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finalized corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards for passenger cars and light trucks for model-years '27–'31, which require automakers to meet a fleetwide average of 50.4 miles per gallon (mpg) in model year '31.

Under NHTSA's current standards for model years '24–'26, which were finalized in 2022, automakers are required to meet a fleetwide average of nearly 47 mpg in 2026. NHTSA's final CAFE rulemaking for model-years '27–'31 puts in place standards that are lower than the agency's 2023 proposed standards that would have required automakers to average 58 mpg in 2032. Below are key provisions in the final rulemaking: 

• NHTSA is requiring light trucks, a category that includes pickups, larger SUVs and minivans, to improve gas mileage by a total of 14% by 2031 (the agency's original proposal would have required a 24% improvement in gas mileage by 2032).  
• The rulemaking will increase light-truck fuel economy from 35.2 mpg in 2024 to 45 mpg by 2031. 
• NHTSA is requiring passenger cars and small SUVs to improve fuel efficiency by 10% (this is unchanged from the original proposal, but the final proposal now lasts until 2031 instead of 2032).  
• The rulemaking increases passenger cars and small SUV fuel economy from 48.7 mpg in 2024 to 65 mpg in 2031. 

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola submitted comments to NHTSA in October 2023 outlining concerns that the agency's proposed standards would force automakers to rapidly expand sales of electric vehicles and reduce sales of internal-combustion engine vehicles to avoid paying an estimated $14 billion in fines. Click here to read SEMA's official comment to NHTSA. 

You can read more about SEMA's efforts to protect vehicle choice by visiting sema.org/advocacy/ice-bans. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas Convention Center, are offering products, parts and services for builders working on vehicles set for display at the SEMA Show this year.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is updated frequently, and features product offers and contact information from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors looking to collaborate with builders. Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should connect with exhibitors directly using the provided contact information.

Note: All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder. Each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show must be supported by a current 2024 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show only. Exhibitors: to be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2024 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2024 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is now open 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.

Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts (more details here) and Show badge discounts. Registration is only $40 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

The SEMA Show offers an attendee experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members, but the following are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here) for this year's SEMA Show:

• Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends with approximately 2,400 brands across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo (tires) and Wheels & Wheel Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
• New Product Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan and download product photos and exhibitor information that will remain on your app long after the SEMA Show has ended.
• Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most important week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs exploring the industry's most significant challenges and offering immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
• Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built. Network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to see lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings, all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that will lead to real results and quality connections.
• Show Features: SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; the outdoors Optima Village; feature vehicle displays; SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions and Product Development; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the Overland Experience; and the SEMA Show Art Walk.
• Show Events: Unique events and activations such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the Industry Banquet and vehicle demonstrations will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
• And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and the second annual SEMA Fest, a celebration of music, motorsports and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to the concerts at SEMA Fest. Visit SEMAFest.com to stay up-to-date and discover when tickets will be available.

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. Inventory is selling quickly; secure your hotels today!

For more information about the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) recently announced that it plans to discontinue 265 exclusions from tariffs on Chinese-origin products that were first assessed in 2018 and 2019 pursuant to Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Below are some of the exclusions that USTR did not renew, which may impact industry businesses: 

• Wheel speed sensors for anti-lock motor vehicle braking systems, each valued not over $12 (described in statistical reporting number 8543.70.4500).
• Artificial graphite, in powder or flake form, for manufacturing into the lithium-ion anode component of batteries (described in statistical reporting number 3801.10.5000). 
• Hydraulic valve lifters of steel with rollers, suitable for use solely or principally with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines (other than for aircraft engines, marine propulsion engines or for vehicles of subheading 8701.20, or headings 8702, 8703 or 8704), each measuring 5 cm or more but not over 13 cm in length and 2.5 cm or more but not over 3.9 cm in diameter and weighing 135 g or more but not over 410 g (described in statistical reporting number 8409.91.9990).
• Solid valve lifters of steel, suitable for use solely or principally with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines (other than for aircraft engines, marine propulsion engines or for vehicles of subheading 8701.20, or headings 8702, 8703 or 8704), each measuring 19 mm or more but not over 114 mm in length and 6 mm or more but not over 26 mm in diameter and weighing 20 g or more but not over 250 g (described in statistical reporting number 8409.91.9990).
• Tire carrier attachments, roof racks, fender liners, side protective attachments, the foregoing of steel (described in statistical reporting number 8708.29.5060 prior to January 27, 2022; described in statistical reporting number 8708.29.5160 effective January 27, 2022).
• Flange forgings of Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) 1035 carbon steel (described in statistical reporting number 8708.40.7570).
• Hub forgings of SAE 1035 carbon steel (described in statistical reporting number8708.40.7570). 
• Front output shafts of SAE 1045 carbon steel suitable for use in automatic transmission systems for passenger motor vehicles (described in statistical reporting number 8708.99.6890).

Annex D contains an exhaustive list of items being removed from the exclusions list. Annex C contains all items being renewed through May 2025. You can access both lists here. 

USTR did not extend exclusions for some of the following reasons: "importers had no plans to shift sourcing out of China in 2024 (or at all)," and "commenters reported that they had taken few or no steps to shift sourcing out of China" after receiving temporary exclusions for over four years, there was availability to source products domestically or outside of China, and where commenters noted that products couldn’t be purchased cheaper from anywhere other than China.  

In addition to the exclusions that will expire on June 14, 2014 (Annex D), USTR also announced that it will extend 164 exclusions from China tariffs through May 31, 2025 (Annex C). The agency maintains that extending Annex C exclusions will "support efforts to shift sourcing out of China, or provide additional time where, despite efforts to source products from alternative sources, availability of the product outside of China remains limited."

The announcement comes on the heels of the USTR’s statutorily mandated "four-year review" of the Section 301 tariffs, which were first imposed in 2018 on a wide range of products manufactured in China. SEMA encouraged members in early 2023 to provide feedback to the agency if their business is affected by the Section 301 tariffs. 

If your business has been impacted by the Section 301 tariffs, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) recently announced that it plans to discontinue 265 exclusions from tariffs on Chinese-origin products that were first assessed in 2018 and 2019 pursuant to Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Below are some of the exclusions that USTR did not renew, which may impact industry businesses: 

• Wheel speed sensors for anti-lock motor vehicle braking systems, each valued not over $12 (described in statistical reporting number 8543.70.4500).
• Artificial graphite, in powder or flake form, for manufacturing into the lithium-ion anode component of batteries (described in statistical reporting number 3801.10.5000). 
• Hydraulic valve lifters of steel with rollers, suitable for use solely or principally with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines (other than for aircraft engines, marine propulsion engines or for vehicles of subheading 8701.20, or headings 8702, 8703 or 8704), each measuring 5 cm or more but not over 13 cm in length and 2.5 cm or more but not over 3.9 cm in diameter and weighing 135 g or more but not over 410 g (described in statistical reporting number 8409.91.9990).
• Solid valve lifters of steel, suitable for use solely or principally with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines (other than for aircraft engines, marine propulsion engines or for vehicles of subheading 8701.20, or headings 8702, 8703 or 8704), each measuring 19 mm or more but not over 114 mm in length and 6 mm or more but not over 26 mm in diameter and weighing 20 g or more but not over 250 g (described in statistical reporting number 8409.91.9990).
• Tire carrier attachments, roof racks, fender liners, side protective attachments, the foregoing of steel (described in statistical reporting number 8708.29.5060 prior to January 27, 2022; described in statistical reporting number 8708.29.5160 effective January 27, 2022).
• Flange forgings of Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) 1035 carbon steel (described in statistical reporting number 8708.40.7570).
• Hub forgings of SAE 1035 carbon steel (described in statistical reporting number8708.40.7570). 
• Front output shafts of SAE 1045 carbon steel suitable for use in automatic transmission systems for passenger motor vehicles (described in statistical reporting number 8708.99.6890).

Annex D contains an exhaustive list of items being removed from the exclusions list. Annex C contains all items being renewed through May 2025. You can access both lists here. 

USTR did not extend exclusions for some of the following reasons: "importers had no plans to shift sourcing out of China in 2024 (or at all)," and "commenters reported that they had taken few or no steps to shift sourcing out of China" after receiving temporary exclusions for over four years, there was availability to source products domestically or outside of China, and where commenters noted that products couldn’t be purchased cheaper from anywhere other than China.  

In addition to the exclusions that will expire on June 14, 2014 (Annex D), USTR also announced that it will extend 164 exclusions from China tariffs through May 31, 2025 (Annex C). The agency maintains that extending Annex C exclusions will "support efforts to shift sourcing out of China, or provide additional time where, despite efforts to source products from alternative sources, availability of the product outside of China remains limited."

The announcement comes on the heels of the USTR’s statutorily mandated "four-year review" of the Section 301 tariffs, which were first imposed in 2018 on a wide range of products manufactured in China. SEMA encouraged members in early 2023 to provide feedback to the agency if their business is affected by the Section 301 tariffs. 

If your business has been impacted by the Section 301 tariffs, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@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.

In addition, each product entry will have a dedicated QR code to help attendees learn more details and find the exhibitors' booth number, serving as a lead generation tool for participating exhibitors. The SEMA Show team also professionally photographs every product entry and highlights it in several promotions, including SEMA News, the official SEMA Show mobile app and the New Products Showcase gallery on SEMAShow.com. The gallery is promoted throughout the year as a resource for buyers and media to find the latest innovations even after Showtime. 

All entries are considered and eligible for a New Products Showcase award, providing even more brand exposure and recognition. 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

'25 Cadillac Escalade V Features IQ-Themed Upgrades

SEMA News sources recently spotted an undisguised '25 Cadillac Escalade V near the Milford Proving Grounds.

The Escalade V is receiving an upgrade aligning with the IQ-themed Cadillacs, according to insiders. At the front, the images indicate a blend of the IQ-themed front fascia with the traditional ICE Escalade's design, featuring its signature grille.

Power will still be derived from a supercharged 6.2L V8, which currently makes 682 hp. That's sent to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic.

An official debut is expected in the next month or so.

New '25 Ford Maverick XL Images Hint at Revisions for New Model Year

New images of the '25 Ford Maverick in its base XL trim have emerged providing hints at possible revisions for the new model year.

The prototype was painted in the brand-new Eruption Green color, hinting at new available colors for the '25 model year.

The base Maverick features modest steel wheels and is clearly marked as an XL trim, thanks to its uncovered fender vent. New headlights adorn the front end, while retaining some F-150-inspired shape, but feature a traditional halogen lighting instead of the LED signature. The grille design looks similar to previous Maverick models, though the finish might be slightly less upscale, according to the images.

The '25 Ford Maverick is expected to retain its two powertrain options: a 2.5L hybrid delivering 191 hp with a CVT, and a 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine producing 250 hp with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Insiders say to expect an official debut in the coming months, if not weeks.

By SEMA News Editors

Hedman Performance Group Relocates Hedman Husler Hedders Operations to California

Hedman Performance Group, a manufacturer of off-road and performance header applications, is relocating its Alpharetta, Georgia, Hedman Husler race header operations to the company's global headquarters and manufacturing facility in Whittier, California.

The consolidation aims to improve production efficiency for the Husler Hedders brand, the company said in a statement. Husler-branded products can still be ordered as normal through June 30, 2024.

For more information, visit hedman.com.

Joel Ayres Retires as Executive Director of AACF

Joel Ayres, the first-ever executive director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has retired, effective April 30.

Retiring after more than nine years of service, Ayres successfully led new initiatives like the Awareness Partner Program, with partner companies doubling in number during his time. 

He also served on the SEMA Board of Directors for many years and helped lead the SEMA Cares program, overseeing its charitable initiatives. Additionally, he chaired the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Committee, further solidifying his commitment to supporting the next generation of industry leaders.

"I was honored to have been chosen as the first Executive Director of AACF. I was blessed with a fantastic Board of Trustees to work with these past nine-plus years."  He added, "I am proud of the work we were able to accomplish, and I love the mission of the Foundation. Outside of the limelight, we help many individuals and families through kindness and support. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve and help my brothers and sisters in the Automotive Aftermarket."

For more information, visit aftermarketcharity.org.

Michelin Appoints New North American President & CEO

Michelin has named Matthew Cabe as president and CEO of Michelin North America, effective October 1, 2024. He succeeds Alexis Garcin, whose next position within Michelin will be announced at a later date. 

Cabe will be responsible for all key customer-facing functions of Michelin North America, including sales and marketing, services and solutions, quality and supply-chain units along with other corporate and business functions. He also joins the board of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA).

Since 2021, Cabe has served as senior vice president of the Michelin Group's automotive regional brands business line based in Budapest, Hungary. From 2017 to 2021 he served in a number of marketing leadership positions for the North American passenger car and light truck business.

For more information, visit michelinman.com.

P1 Groupe Acquires Operation of RacingEdge

P1 Groupe, a provider of various motorsports and vehicle services, has acquired RacingEdge and has taken over operations of its vehicle classifieds service.

The companies previously partnered during the launch of RacingEdge, according to the statement announcing the acquisition.

"P1 Groupe was one of the first in the industry to jump on board with RacingEdge.com to market the inventory of racecars we had available," said P1 Groupe President Eric Burch. "Getting more hands-on with the business itself is just a natural next step for us, and we're excited to push RacingEdge.com to new heights."

For more information, visit racingedge.com.

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

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Education is launching "Powering Tomorrow: Unveiling the Future of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure, Presented by SkillFusion," a new three-part webinar series that addresses the state and opportunities of the electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) industry.

SkillFusion, an organization dedicated to solving electric vehicle (EV) charger infrastructure downtime, focuses on enhancing the EV-owner experience by increasing the number of certified labor technicians needed to maintain and repair EVSE technology. The first webinar, "The State of the EVSE Industry," will take place on June 25 at 10:00 a.m. PDT and provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the EVSE landscape.

Presented by Rue Phillips, SkillFusion co-founder and president, and Mark LaNeve, chairman of Franchise Equity Partners (FEP), the session will help participants understand key EVSE trends, challenges and opportunities.

Topics covered include:

• Industry Challenges: Learn about challenges faced by the EVSE sector, such as scalability and interoperability issues.
• Market Dynamics: Discover current market trends and dynamics shaping the EVSE industry landscape.
• Regulatory Landscape: Gain an understanding of the regulatory framework influencing the EVSE industry and its implications.
• Technological Advancements: Explore the latest hardware and software innovations in EVSE.

As the number of electric vehicles on the roads grows, charger reliability and uptime will play a significant role in owner experience. This webinar is your chance to stay ahead in the EVSE industry and engage directly with EVSE experts.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Chris Ierardi, national sales manager at Eastman Performance Films, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Ierardi in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling?  

Chris Ierardi: Honestly, by accident. I found myself working for LLumar right out of college in 2010 without any knowledge of the film or restyler industry. I can't say that it was my passion back then, but this industry is so unique and keeps me very engaged. No day or week is the same, and the industry is always changing and evolving. Supporting the growth of the restyler channel has always been a focus of ours as a company and for me as an individual. 

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?  

CI: My manager was a volunteer on the PRO select committee for the previous six years and invited me to the awards ceremony and reception as his guest a few times. It was great to meet so many restylers and learn more about what PRO is involved in; I couldn't help myself but to apply. Joining the select committee has allowed me the opportunity to learn so much more about the restylers and the other manufacturers that support them. The networking within the group has been incredible, I will have lifelong friends as a result of joining the committee. 

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?  

CI: I would first ask them, "Are you crazy?" I would also suggest that they be very flexible and dynamic before pursuing. If that is a struggle point for that individual, I would suggest going elsewhere. 

SN: What is your dream vehicle?  

CI: Any year of the Acura NSX, I have loved that car ever since Pulp Fiction. I live in Denver, Colorado, but I would prefer to drive this vehicle down the Pacific coastline. 

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

CI: Work hard, stay humble. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

CI: The fact that no week is the same and that the industry is constantly evolving, and customers are always demanding more. A few years ago, the demand from customers was a higher-IR-blocking window film, but recently the latest demand has been colored PPF. As a manufacturer, we are always working on developing new products but also ways to improve our service offering to our customers. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

CI: I have two young daughters so likely at a dance studio, swimming pool or golf course. Even though I am not the player that I used to be, you can still find me playing men’s league ice hockey on weekend evenings. 

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.