By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA New York Rally, hosted in Albany on May 14, brought together businesses within the automotive aftermarket industry to amplify their voices and advocate for policies conducive to industry growth and protection of business interests.  

Attendees engaged with influential New York lawmakers, leveraging their collective voice to champion policies supporting industry growth, addressing tax policies beneficial to small businesses and navigating challenges posed by producer responsibility laws.  

Barry Alt of Motorhead Digital (left), Cora Jokinen of Torq-Masters Industries (middle), met with New York Senator Pam Helming (right) during the SEMA New York Rally to discuss policies supporting industry growth.

The specialty automotive aftermarket industry's significant contribution to New York's economy was highlighted, with more than $10 billion contributed, supporting 38,000 jobs, $3.72 billion in wages and benefits, and $1.52 billion in taxes paid. This underscores the industry's vital role in the state's economic landscape. 

At a luncheon during the event, Paul Zuber, executive vice president of the Business Council of New York State, delivered a compelling address highlighting the intersection of business interests and legislative initiatives impacting the automotive aftermarket in New York. 

Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, emphasized the importance of member engagement in events like the SEMA New York Rally. "Member participation is crucial in amplifying our collective voice and shaping policies that directly impact our industry," Robinson said. "Events like these provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, driving positive change and ensuring a vibrant future for the automotive aftermarket in New York." 

For more information, reach out to Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Louisiana legislature approved SEMA-supported legislation (HB 515) to ensure consumers' choice of vehicle powerplants and fuel technology by preventing a state agency from limiting access to certain power sources.   

Having passed both chambers, the bill now awaits final approval or veto by Governor Jeff Landry. 

"HB 515 is a pro-consumer, pro-innovation and pro-business piece of legislation," said Colby Martin, SEMA’s director of state government affairs. "SEMA urges the governor to support this bill and allow the automotive industry to continue delivering the freedom and choice that Louisianans deserve." 

Louisiana is among several states seeking similar proposals. SEMA believes that Louisianans, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. This effort promotes consumer choice, fosters innovation and protects jobs. 

Use this link to send a letter to lawmakers supporting this pro-industry legislation. 

For more information, please contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Louisiana legislature approved SEMA-supported legislation (HB 515) to ensure consumers' choice of vehicle powerplants and fuel technology by preventing a state agency from limiting access to certain power sources.   

Having passed both chambers, the bill now awaits final approval or veto by Governor Jeff Landry. 

"HB 515 is a pro-consumer, pro-innovation and pro-business piece of legislation," said Colby Martin, SEMA’s director of state government affairs. "SEMA urges the governor to support this bill and allow the automotive industry to continue delivering the freedom and choice that Louisianans deserve." 

Louisiana is among several states seeking similar proposals. SEMA believes that Louisianans, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. This effort promotes consumer choice, fosters innovation and protects jobs. 

Use this link to send a letter to lawmakers supporting this pro-industry legislation. 

For more information, please contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has announced that the 2024 SEMA Show floorplan is now live and available at SEMAShow.com/floorplan. The team behind the premier automotive specialty-equipment trade show spent weeks plotting booths to ensure brands could showcase their new innovations across the Las Vegas Convention Center campus, November 5-8. 

Now that the floorplan is live, automotive professionals, decision-makers, buyers, media members and attendees can maximize their Show experience by utilizing the interactive map and exhibitor list at SEMAShow.com/floorplan.

The road to a successful 2024 SEMA Show begins with:

• Registration: Secure your badge to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends, and develop essential skills with education sessions. Register today at semashow.com/register.
• Booking Your Hotel: Hotel reservations are open online here. SEMA Show and partner onPeak offer Showgoers the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.
• Securing Discounted Airline Tickets: Show organizers have secured special airline fares and discounts for trips with Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. More details here.
• Planning Your SEMA Show: Visit the SEMA Show attendee website at semashow.com/attendee to begin your SEMA Show plan with key details on Show features, like the New Product Showcase, the SEMA Battle of the Builders, feature vehicle displays, SEMA FutureTech Studio, Optima Village, Overland Experience, Collision Repair & Refinish Stage plus the SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions, Product Development area. In addition, find out which events are returning in 2024, like the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Cruise, SEMA Awards Presentation, SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, SEMA Business General Membership Meeting and SEMA Fest (more details coming soon)!
• Reliving the SEMA Show: Can't wait for Vegas? Browse dozens of innovative automotive products featured in the 2023 SEMA New Product Showcase here.

Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of housing and travel discounts. Registration is only $40 for qualified attendees who register by June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 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.

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

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show is already gearing up to once again serve as the industry homecoming, November 5-8 in Las Vegas. Exhibitors are strategizing their booth plans (read SEMA News' recent Racing & Performance preview and Hot Rod Alley/Restoration Marketplace preview), and this year's Exhibitor Service Manual is packed with new valuable resources and deadlines. 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. 

Below is a preview of the useful resources to get exhibitors on the road to a successful SEMA Show.

1. Feature Vehicles

Learn more about the rules, regulations and requirements for displaying a vehicle on the SEMA Show floor outside of a booth. Click here to read up on the Feature Vehicle guidelines or submit an application. 

2. New Product Showcase

Submit products to the New Product Showcase--the top destination for buyers and media at the SEMA Show--to build brand awareness and generate leads. The first product entry is free for exhibitors; find more information on submitting a product, packaging or merchandising display here and complete an application for a new or featured product here. 

3. Budget Checklist

This is an essential tool for all participating exhibitors, but especially first-timers. Calculate all confirmed and projected fees for everything from booth space; exhibit design and building; electrical; freight and material handling and related services; plus marketing and staff expenses.

4. Deadlines List

Discover key dates for exhibitors, including deadlines and rate increases.

5. Contact List

Contact the Show organizers to help you succeed with categories like booth vehicles, feature vehicles, banquet tickets, the New Product Showcase, meeting rooms and more.

6. Parking Information

This is especially helpful for exhibitors with trailers; discover where you can park leading up to and during the event.

7. Freeman Booth Services

This section addresses booth needs like power, carpet, fixtures, freight, A/V and computer rentals, cleaning, signs and graphics, and more.

8. Approved Vendors for Booth Services

Access the approved vendors for lead retrieval, catering, insurance, vehicle detailing, tent and canopy rental, internet and telephone, photography, and more.

9. Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships

This section provides successful marketing opportunities at the SEMA Show like advertising, press conferences, products for project-vehicle builders, PR opportunities, sponsorships, celebrity appearances and directory upgrades. In addition, the application for the New Product Showcase appears here.

10. Exhibitor Rules and Regulations

Discover essential information, including applications, fees, payments, safety requirements and more.

11. SEMA Exhibitor Summit (Complimentary event July 24-25)

Those who want to exhibit like professionals and go beyond the Exhibitor Service Manual should attend this year's SEMA Exhibitor Summit, which will feature new-for-2024, relevant, business-boosting information. Open to all current exhibitors, SEMA will cover hotel costs for up to two members of each exhibiting company and offer information on how to:

• Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
• Use proven strategies to attract professionals, media members, decision-makers and buyers to your booth.
• Save money and resources on necessary Show costs like material handling, electrical and related expenses.
• Work one-on-one with SEMA Show experts to maximize your ROI.
• Learn to plan and budget for your entire team to attend.
• Explore promotional opportunities to attract more exposure through complimentary and paid sponsorships and programs.
• Maximize your SEMA Show booth experience.

Don't delay; secure your spots for this year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, July 24-25, Las Vegas, West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit. 

Still have questions? No problem! 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.

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

The 2024 SEMA Show is already gearing up to once again serve as the industry homecoming, November 5-8 in Las Vegas. Exhibitors are strategizing their booth plans (read SEMA News' recent Racing & Performance preview and Hot Rod Alley/Restoration Marketplace preview), and this year's Exhibitor Service Manual is packed with new valuable resources and deadlines. 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. 

Below is a preview of the useful resources to get exhibitors on the road to a successful SEMA Show.

1. Feature Vehicles

Learn more about the rules, regulations and requirements for displaying a vehicle on the SEMA Show floor outside of a booth. Click here to read up on the Feature Vehicle guidelines or submit an application. 

2. New Product Showcase

Submit products to the New Product Showcase--the top destination for buyers and media at the SEMA Show--to build brand awareness and generate leads. The first product entry is free for exhibitors; find more information on submitting a product, packaging or merchandising display here and complete an application for a new or featured product here. 

3. Budget Checklist

This is an essential tool for all participating exhibitors, but especially first-timers. Calculate all confirmed and projected fees for everything from booth space; exhibit design and building; electrical; freight and material handling and related services; plus marketing and staff expenses.

4. Deadlines List

Discover key dates for exhibitors, including deadlines and rate increases.

5. Contact List

Contact the Show organizers to help you succeed with categories like booth vehicles, feature vehicles, banquet tickets, the New Product Showcase, meeting rooms and more.

6. Parking Information

This is especially helpful for exhibitors with trailers; discover where you can park leading up to and during the event.

7. Freeman Booth Services

This section addresses booth needs like power, carpet, fixtures, freight, A/V and computer rentals, cleaning, signs and graphics, and more.

8. Approved Vendors for Booth Services

Access the approved vendors for lead retrieval, catering, insurance, vehicle detailing, tent and canopy rental, internet and telephone, photography, and more.

9. Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships

This section provides successful marketing opportunities at the SEMA Show like advertising, press conferences, products for project-vehicle builders, PR opportunities, sponsorships, celebrity appearances and directory upgrades. In addition, the application for the New Product Showcase appears here.

10. Exhibitor Rules and Regulations

Discover essential information, including applications, fees, payments, safety requirements and more.

11. SEMA Exhibitor Summit (Complimentary event July 24-25)

Those who want to exhibit like professionals and go beyond the Exhibitor Service Manual should attend this year's SEMA Exhibitor Summit, which will feature new-for-2024, relevant, business-boosting information. Open to all current exhibitors, SEMA will cover hotel costs for up to two members of each exhibiting company and offer information on how to:

• Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
• Use proven strategies to attract professionals, media members, decision-makers and buyers to your booth.
• Save money and resources on necessary Show costs like material handling, electrical and related expenses.
• Work one-on-one with SEMA Show experts to maximize your ROI.
• Learn to plan and budget for your entire team to attend.
• Explore promotional opportunities to attract more exposure through complimentary and paid sponsorships and programs.
• Maximize your SEMA Show booth experience.

Don't delay; secure your spots for this year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, July 24-25, Las Vegas, West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit. 

Still have questions? No problem! 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.

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

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI members traveled to Washington, DC, to advocate for the interests of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries as part of the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally. Members and industry leaders held nearly 150 meetings with their elected officials and congressional staff, advocating for their lawmakers to support legislation to protect the future of the industry. The Washington Rally kicked off with a congressional dinner where TV presenter and car builder Ant Anstead hosted an engaging panel discussion with industry champions from the U.S. Representatives, including Reps. Marie Glusenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV), and included a lunch at the exclusive Capitol Hill Club with U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. 

The event also featured the "Cars at the Capitol" event, which showcased a curated offering of customized cars, trucks and SUVs that exemplify the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that drives the specialty automotive aftermarket. The car show put our industry on display just beyond the steps of the Capitol with a vehicle lineup that included everything from classic cars, including a '67 Chevrolet Chevelle and a '69 Ford Mustang Mach 1, to late-model vehicles such as a '15 Nissan GT-R, a '22 Gladiator 4xe and a Toyota Tundra. 

From left to right: Auto industry personality Ant Anstead and U.S. Representatives Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV).

Congressional meetings provided SEMA and PRI members with an opportunity to advocate for protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, stopping vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting motorized access to federal government lands, making permanent business tax incentives for race tracks and extending business tax incentives that will be expiring or be reduced in 2025. This year's Washington Rally marked the 17th time that SEMA and industry members have traveled to our nation's capital to advocate for the industry. The event plays a pivotal role in SEMA and PRI's advocacy efforts at the federal level, providing our members with an opportunity to develop and strengthen relationships with key members of Congress.

SEMA and PRI encourage those who weren't able to attend the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally--which included the "Cars at the Capitol" event seen here--to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry.

SEMA and PRI welcome our members who weren't able to attend the Rally to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry. We also encourage you to host your members of Congress at your business. Our government affairs team makes this easy by coordinating the logistics and participating in lawmaker visits to member companies. Click here to sign up to host your members of Congress.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI members traveled to Washington, DC, to advocate for the interests of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries as part of the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally. Members and industry leaders held nearly 150 meetings with their elected officials and congressional staff, advocating for their lawmakers to support legislation to protect the future of the industry. The Washington Rally kicked off with a congressional dinner where TV presenter and car builder Ant Anstead hosted an engaging panel discussion with industry champions from the U.S. Representatives, including Reps. Marie Glusenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV), and included a lunch at the exclusive Capitol Hill Club with U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. 

The event also featured the "Cars at the Capitol" event, which showcased a curated offering of customized cars, trucks and SUVs that exemplify the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that drives the specialty automotive aftermarket. The car show put our industry on display just beyond the steps of the Capitol with a vehicle lineup that included everything from classic cars, including a '67 Chevrolet Chevelle and a '69 Ford Mustang Mach 1, to late-model vehicles such as a '15 Nissan GT-R, a '22 Gladiator 4xe and a Toyota Tundra. 

From left to right: Auto industry personality Ant Anstead and U.S. Representatives Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV).

Congressional meetings provided SEMA and PRI members with an opportunity to advocate for protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, stopping vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting motorized access to federal government lands, making permanent business tax incentives for race tracks and extending business tax incentives that will be expiring or be reduced in 2025. This year's Washington Rally marked the 17th time that SEMA and industry members have traveled to our nation's capital to advocate for the industry. The event plays a pivotal role in SEMA and PRI's advocacy efforts at the federal level, providing our members with an opportunity to develop and strengthen relationships with key members of Congress.

SEMA and PRI encourage those who weren't able to attend the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally--which included the "Cars at the Capitol" event seen here--to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry.

SEMA and PRI welcome our members who weren't able to attend the Rally to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry. We also encourage you to host your members of Congress at your business. Our government affairs team makes this easy by coordinating the logistics and participating in lawmaker visits to member companies. Click here to sign up to host your members of Congress.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Kris Kinsinger, wholesale account manager at Diode Dynamics--a manufacturer of automotive LED lighting products--as the network's newest spotlight member.  

Get to know Kinsinger in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Kris Kinsinger: Time is your most valuable resource and you can't get it back. Make sure to use it wisely. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

KK: A passion for all things automotive. The aftermarket side of things is cool to be part of because each enthusiast has their own touch that makes their vehicle unique to them. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

KK: You can find me camping with my family, out on the trails off-roading, spending time at the lake, riding my motorcycle or sitting around a campfire. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

KK: Go in with a knowledge of what is being discussed. Keep an open mind. Be a good listener. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

KK: Jay Leno. I've always been a big fan of "Jay Leno's Garage" and would love to see his car and motorcycle collection in person. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

INDYCAR Sets Date for Hybrid Debut

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES has confirmed the launch of its new hybrid power unit for later this year.

Developed by INDYCAR, Chevrolet and Honda, the hybrid unit will pair with the 2.2L, twin-turbocharged V6 engine used by the series and make its competitive debut at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course during the Honda Indy 200, July 5-7.

The hybrid system is made up of the low-voltage (48V) Motor Generator Unit (MGU) and Energy Storage System (ESS)--consisting of 20 ultracapacitors--both of which fit inside the bellhousing, located between the engine and gearbox. During regeneration, acting on the clutch shaft, the MGU builds power to be stored in the ESS. The additional horsepower is deployed through the same motor generator on driver demand.

In competition, options for automatic regeneration via braking or throttle position and manual regeneration via selected steering wheel paddles and buttons will be available. Deployment of stored energy will only be available manually through a latching button, similar to the existing Push to Pass system, according to INDYCAR.

While available to use in addition to the traditional Push-to-Pass system on road and street circuits, the two systems will come with different rules. Push-to-Pass will still have a restriction on the amount of time per use and total time used throughout a race. Rules for the hybrid power unit will limit the amount of energy deployed per lap and will be based on track length. Used in combination on road and street circuits, the added boost will provide an additional 120 hp for a total of 800-plus hp. Additional horsepower is expected in the coming years as hybrid unit development continues, the series said.

A full-field test of INDYCAR's power unit is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11, at the Milwaukee Mile to allow teams to finalize implementation ahead of the July debut.

For more information, visit indycar.com. 

NASCAR to Launch In-Season Tournament on TNT Sports in 2025; Prime Video to Feature Seeding Races

NASCAR has announced it will hold a first-of-its-kind in-season tournament for the NASCAR Cup Series in 2025. The seeding for the bracket-style, head-to-head event across TNT Sports' full five-race schedule will be set by results from the final three races that will air on Prime Video.

"The idea of an in-season tournament has been discussed within the NASCAR industry and as we started to focus on adding promotional elements that drive interest throughout the season, we were excited by the opportunity to leverage the marketing weight of Amazon and TNT Sports to bring this concept to life," said Brian Herbst, NASCAR SVP, Media and Productions. 

All drivers are eligible for the seeding races, which will take place during the final three races of Prime Video's coverage of the NASCAR Cup Series. The top 32 drivers based on the seeding events will become eligible for the in-season tournament competition. Bracket seeding will be established by the best finish in each race over the three races, with the tiebreakers determined by the next-best finish, followed by season points position.

The tournament kicks off with the first event in the TNT Sports portion of the NASCAR Cup Series season. Drivers will compete head-to-head with the higher finishing driver of each race advancing over five rounds. The winner of the tournament will receive a $1 million prize.

For the complete details, visit the NASCAR announcement here or visit nascar.com.

Acura Integra Type S Competes in One Lap of America

Two Acura engineers recently competed in the 2024 Tire Rack One Lap of America behind the wheel of the Acura Integra Type S, the first time the high-performance model has participated in the eight-day cross-country road rally that covers 3,500 miles and includes timed events on nine racetracks across the Midwest.

The Acura entry was driven by Justyn Bobinski, a brake and vehicle dynamics test engineer at the Honda North American Automotive Development Center, and Nick Amato, who performs brake verification testing at Honda's Marysville Auto Plant.

The Acura race team is part of the Honda of America Racing Team (HART), which consists of Honda associates across North America. The HART program provides associates with motorsports experience, while also transferring vehicle performance learnings into the development and manufacturing of next-generation Honda and Acura products. The HART One Lap of America team is supporting the Victory Center, an Ohio-based organization that provides programs and services to cancer patients, survivors and their families.

Bobinski and Amato used One Lap of America to further test the performance, handling, and durability of the Acura Integra Type S under extreme conditions. The Type S variant featured a turbocharged 320hp 2.0L engine, a six-speed manual transmission, a dual-axis front suspension design and four-piston Brembo front brakes. For the competition, the only modifications from stock were a racing seat and roll cage for safety, CarboTech brake pads, Red Line Oil, and a custom "careers.honda.com" livery.

Additionally, Acura engineers Tyler Chambers and Chad Gilsinger piloted the 600hp "one-and-a-half" Acura NSX Type S in the event, towing the rear half of another NSX custom fabricated into a trailer, which carried spare tires, tools and fluids. 

For more information, visit acura.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com.