By SEMA News Editors

The specialty equipment aftermarket will converge in Las Vegas for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8. As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, here's a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, some of which are also detailed in this article below.

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

• July 26: Feature Vehicle Display application (vehicles displayed outside of booth).
• August 14: Show Directory listing information.
• August 14: Pocket Guide company listing.
• August 16: Press/Media Conference application.
• August 16: Pocket Guide ad placement reservations.
• August 23: Pocket Guide ad materials due.
• August 23: Show Directory ad space reservations.
• August 29: Show Directory ad materials due.

Placing Freeman orders before the Tuesday, October 1 discount deadline, which offers discounted prices off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show.

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists.

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

By SEMA News Editors

Radflo

Radflo 500R SPORT 2.0 Shock Line

The 500R Sport Series shock line uses race-proven technology to reduce body roll while increasing control and comfort, according to the manufacturer. The monotube shock utilizes a high-flow main piston and internal floating piston to ensure consistent performance and is bolt-on, ride-height adjustable and re-tunable.

radflo.com

Torklift

ApexAnchors Tie Down System

Torklift has introduced its new ApexAnchors Internal Frame-Mounted Payload Anchor system and new camper turnbuckle designs. The new system is designed to mount directly to the frame, the company said, and provide a secure, reliable connection designed to support heavy-duty applications and long-term use.

torkliftcentral.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By Kenny Wright

Attendee, buyer and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is 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. 

Of course, there are countless reasons to attend the world's premier automotive aftermarket trade show. However, for those still finalizing their plans for the year, check out this first-hand experience from SEMA team member Kenny Wright, who attended his first SEMA Show last year.

This year was my first time attending the SEMA Show since I've never considered myself a car expert. Prior to the 2023 event, I had only heard about "The Show" from friends who are auto enthusiasts or work in the industry. They shared how great it is and how "there's so much that you can't see it all." As I approached the event, I wondered if people were over-hyping the event and if it would live up to expectations. However, after spending nearly seven days in the Las Vegas Convention Center and attending as many exhibits, activations and displays as possible, I can confidently say that the SEMA Show is a massive achievement in event planning and execution and a true example of pure passion on display for the world.

If you ever get the chance, go to the SEMA Show… And if you've ever been, go again. Because no matter what you think you know about the SEMA Show, it's got surprises and something new for everyone; veterans and newcomers alike.

As a newcomer in the industry, I had the opportunity to truly immerse myself in the world of the automotive aftermarket… and I'll never be the same again. Hundreds of unique, customized vehicles teeming with specialty parts were carefully placed throughout the venue. Countless exhibitor booths filled the convention halls. This single event takes over the entire Las Vegas Convention Center, inside and out. It is one of the absolute most prominent and most occupied automotive events in the world. To see all that the Show had to offer, I walked over six miles (and would absolutely do it again!) It was pleasantly overwhelming. There is something for almost everyone at the SEMA Show.

I also had the privilege of working with the SEMA team during the months leading up to the Show. I got the opportunity to see what it takes to make such a significant event come to life. Everyone working on the Show was full of energy and focused on ensuring everything was taken care of, down to every single detail. It took months and months of planning, meetings, and conference calls, and in the end, the result was overwhelmingly successful. I was and am still impressed.

Every day at the Show, I noticed something: everyone on the Show floor was in positive spirits. Exhibitors were enthusiastic about being at the SEMA Show and having their products on display at the largest gathering for the automotive aftermarket. Attendees and buyers were grateful to be part of the action.

The energy of the automotive aftermarket crowd is remarkably positive for one of its size and scale. I was most pleasantly surprised by everyone's welcoming attitude--I felt like I belonged.

At the Show, there seemed to be two main attractions that grabbed the attention of true auto enthusiasts, car aficionados and industry pros: the Featured Vehicles and the New Products Showcase.

Many featured vehicles highlighted the purest forms of opulent style and detailed craftsmanship. Some of the most eye-catching builds were a "luxury" dune buggy complete with custom Louis Vuitton front-end grills; another was a lifted golf cart outfitted with speakers that could fill an entire convention center hall with clear audio and booming bass. Why? Well, why not, of course! These were just some of the unique--and awesome--vehicles on display at the Show.

The New Products Showcase, meanwhile, highlighted the groundbreaking and modernized products that are new to the market. Some products, like the EV Conversion kit by Scorpion EV, really caught the attention of buyers. New wheels were also a big hit. These weren't reinvented wheels, of course, but they were designed with modern style and touches of classic elegance.

Outdoor activations at the Show included the drifting experiences by Hoonigan, Optima Batteries and Shell. Skilled drivers tore up the courses, safely performing adrenaline-pumping driving stunts that would be unsafe for the average driver, leaving the area filled with tire smoke and rubber shreds. The word "cool" doesn't do this tire-slaying action enough justice, so we'll call it "hyper-cool."

At the same time, the SEMA Education sessions and learning experiences were also a huge feature of the SEMA Show, including keynote speeches from Tim Tebow, former racer and industry icon Willy T. Ribbs, the MotorTrend celebrity showcase, and many more. The education lineup was one of the aspects of the Show that appealed most to the business savvy and those who desire to grow their industry skillset.

Overall, it's clear to me now that if you qualify, you should be at the SEMA Show. The positive energy at the Show is undeniable even to newcomers like myself. Also, the business connections and networking opportunities available to you are invaluable. Moreover, it is important to note that the people make this industry and the SEMA Show as impressive as it is. I can honestly say that the SEMA Show feels like the heart of the automotive aftermarket industry.

It takes a great deal of effort from everyone involved to make the Show what it is. All of the attendees and exhibitors that make up the Show are the life that flows through the body of the automotive aftermarket. The life that gathers at the SEMA Show is the life force that powers the industry each year. After the 2023 event, I no longer consider myself a newcomer, and there's only one thing left for me to say: "I'll see you at the 2024 SEMA Show!"

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) has released the second episode of its "Hammer Down" podcast featuring guest speaker Dave Kindig, owner of Kindig-It Design--the custom car restoration and auto fabrication shop behind the MotorTrend TV series, "Bitchin' Rides."

Hosted by Kevin Oeste, owner of V8 Speed and Resto Shop, alongside Tim McCarthy, HRIA chair and owner of HushMat and ZyCoat, this episode is a must-listen for gearheads, entrepreneurs and anyone who loves a good underdog story.

Join Kindig as he:

• Shares the incredible journey from a "borrowed hammer" to a thriving 40-person team.
• Unveils stories from the shop's early days and the hurdles they have overcome.
• Dives deep into projects, including winning the prestigious Ridler Award.
• Offers insights into building and leading a successful team in the automotive world.

The HRIA "Hammer Down" podcast aims to deliver informative and entertaining discussions that celebrate the passion, ingenuity, and enduring legacy of the hot-rod community and how the SEMA HRIA helps hot-rod businesses succeed. Listen to the new episode now wherever you get your podcasts or at this link.

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. 

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.