By SEMA Editors

Turn 14 Distribution, the performance parts distributor based in Horsham, Pennsylvania, has announced that it will acquire Tucker Powersports, a 56-year-old powersports company based in Fort Worth, Texas. Founded by Ed Tucker, Tucker Powersports also operates in Florida, Pennsylvania, Illinois and California.

Turn 14 Distribution will acquire Tucker Powersports' inventory, intellectual property and private-label brands, which include marques like Kuryakyn, Answer Racing, Pro Taper and QuadBoss.

"The purchase of Tucker Powersports and our entry into the powersports market is an area of opportunity and growth. We look forward to applying many of the principles our company is founded on as we leverage our strengths in efficiency, focus and excellence in the powersports category," said Jon Pulli, CEO of Turn 14 Distribution. 

"The change in ownership is a huge injection of resources to better serve Tucker dealers around the country," said Marc McAllister, president and CEO of Tucker Powersports. "I am confident that Turn 14 Distribution will have a significant impact on the powersports industry with their approach to inventory and their high-quality customer service."

"As we form our powersports team, including sales, marketing and purchasing employees, Turn 14 Distribution will make every reasonable effort to retain and maintain the talent pool at Tucker Powersports," said Pulli.

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Penelope Moroso--marketing director at Moroso Performance Products Inc.--as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Moroso in her interview with SEMA News below.  

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

Penelope Moroso: Say yes! Especially at the beginning of your career, always say yes to things that challenge you. By saying yes and stepping outside your comfort zone, you open so many doors, whether it's meeting new people, trying a new experience or gaining a new skill. Saying yes early in my career has given me so many opportunities and helped me expand my network and meet some really talented individuals. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

PM: My family, both my immediate family and work family. So much care and hard work has gone into building Moroso and making it successful for 55 years. I want to make the people who have supported me and our company proud and excited for the future of Moroso. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

PM: I love going to try new restaurants and vineyards in my area. Living on the shoreline of Connecticut, we have some amazing seafood and really unique spots to try. And as much as I love trying new places, nothing beats going up to my parents' house on the lake for dinner. My parents grill, and we get to fish and kayak. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?  

PM: I gather and go over as many resources that I have available. I tried to be overprepared but am also conscious that someone else may have additional information or a different perspective I didn't consider. 

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

PM: I would like to go to lunch with Melanie Hellwig White. I had the opportunity to meet her a few months ago, but I would love to hear more about her experience in the industry and how she has taken her family's business to the next level. Taking on a leadership role for my business, I think she would have a lot of insight and wisdom. 

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 Editors 

As the world evolves and travel preferences shift, the exhilarating realm of overlanding is captivating hearts and minds, not just in remote corners of the world but increasingly across the United States. This year, the much-anticipated SEMA Overland Experience returns to the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, promising attendees and media a thrilling journey into the expanding universe of overlanding, complete with fresh opportunities and insights. And lucky for you, some exhibitors have agreed to give SEMA News readers a sneak peek at their displays (more details below).

Nestled in the Diamond Lot adjacent to the West Hall, this year's SEMA Overland Experience boasts a new outside location that sets the stage for an immersive and customized environment. Paired perfectly with the West Hall's showcase of trucks, SUVs, off-road vehicles, powersports and utility vehicles, this Show feature promises to be a haven for enthusiasts and industry players alike.

As experts can attest, one of the most intriguing aspects of overlanding is its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. While overlanding has traditionally thrived in remote parts of the world, its popularity is surging across the nation. The SEMA Overland Experience is a testament to this trend, offering attendees a firsthand look at the latest products and vehicles explicitly tailored for the overlanding experience.

Another highlight is the presence of industry experts within the SEMA Overland Experience, who will identify key opportunities and trends within the market that can potentially open new vital profit centers for businesses. With their insights, automotive professionals can gain a comprehensive understanding of how to position themselves effectively in this dynamic landscape.

Of course, the builds of the SEMA Overland Experience will be nothing short of awe-inspiring (see a sneak peek, below). A plethora of customized vehicles will encompass everything from pop-top-equipped trucks to sprinter vans to specialty trailers, as well as a variety of recreational and utility gear, including refrigerators, storage racks and units, makeshift kitchens, solar chargers and other electronics designed to make off-the-grid travel for work and play fun, productive and convenient.

"The Overland Experience spells lots of opportunity for aftermarket companies looking to diversify and grow their offerings," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "More than just a display, this area acts as both an educational tool and a promotion zone for the burgeoning overlanding market. It's a chance to delve deep into the lifestyle and gear associated with this adventure-driven niche."

For businesses seeking a stake in the overlanding market, the SEMA Overland Experience provides a unique avenue for exposure. Limited opportunities exist to place static vehicle displays and showcase vehicles and trailers, offering a chance to put your offerings in the worldwide spotlight. SEMA thanks the current Overland Experience sponsors (in alphabetical order) American Expedition Vehicles, KW Automotive, LinksWell Automotive, LiquidSpring, Mackin Industries, ORACLE Lighting, Powerbuilt and Caterpillar, Scosche Industries and first-time exhibitor Winnebago.

To further explore these Overland Experience opportunities, contact SEMA Industry Sales Director Alan Josse at alanj@sema.org.

Preview the Innovative Builds Set for the 2023 Overland Experience

Several exhibitors are excited to showcase their latest overlanding innovations to the tens of thousands of enthusiasts, buyers, influencers, media members and attendees in Las Vegas. Below is a sneak peek at the project vehicles for this year, but be sure to make plans to see these project vehicles up close and in person in the outdoor Overland Experience at the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3. 

KW Automotive

KW Automotive will display a project vehicle on a Mercedes Sprinter 170 WB, 3500 XD Super Single 4x2 converted to 4x4 by Igelhaut chassis. Main chassis features include: 

• 4x4 by Igelhaut with three mechanical lockers 
• Long range tank 
• Raised air intake 
• Skid plates for engine 
• Gearbox and differentials 
• Off-road tires and wheelwell extensions 
• Upgraded genuine leather Scheelmann seats  
• CAtuned front bumper 

In addition, the living habitat by Boxmanufaktur features: 

• FRP composite sandwich panel box with storage cab over 
• KCT windows and roof skylight 
• Panorama hatch 
• Elwell hydronic heating system with floor heating and convectors 
• 24v Victron electric system with Lithium battery pack 
• Inverter/charger, solar panels 
• Lightweight furniture with interior walls made of FRP sandwich panels 
• Vitrifrigo fridge 
• Lumicoin LED light fixtures 
• 2Tec2 and teak wood flooring 
• Aluminum storage compartments 

LiquidSpring Smart Suspension 

LiquidSpring Smart Suspension has created a custom-tailored suspension system for two trailblazers in the overland industry. After years of R&D, Supertramp Campers has teamed up with Elevation Off Grid to create one of the most badass turnkey expedition vehicles available: The Megatron. 

The Megatron is a turnkey overland vehicle with a seamlessly designed carbon-fiber reinforced shell, 800 watts of solar, 360-degree views through double-pane glass windows, a wet bath, a fully equipped kitchen and touchscreen management of all your systems. 

"Our active smart suspension enables higher CG vehicles to possess driving dynamics similar to a sedan while maintaining full factory tow and GVW ratings. This is accomplished through computer-controlled valving, compressible liquid and data from steering angle, brake input, roll, pitch and yaw," said a company release. 

ORACLE Lighting

ORACLE's SEMA Overland Experience project vehicle is a '98 Stewart & Stevenson M1079 Light Medium Tactical Vehicle (LMTV). An EMP-Proof 4x4 powered by a Caterpillar 6.6L turbo diesel will soon be converted to a Global Expedition Vehicle (featuring the latest adventure lighting). 

"Most people think of Humvees or the big 5-ton 6x6s when it comes to military vehicles," said ORACLE Lighting Founder Justin Hartenstien. "The LMTV flies under the radar a bit, but it is definitely a vehicle worth looking at for an overland build. Its workhorse nature makes it rugged, and we can build it exactly how we want."

Winnebago 

Ruggedly built yet light enough to be towed by many off-road SUVs, Winnebago's HIKE 100 FLX is designed for extended off-grid stays and provides a comfortable, well-designed base camp for any adventure. The factory-designed, factory-installed and factory-backed FLX package is an integrated system of four technologies that allow you to camp in comfort for up to five days without electrical and water hook-ups. Updated exterior styling--built to accommodate active outdoor lifestyles with flexible storage systems--takes the HIKE 100 FLX well beyond the expectations of every day.

LinksWell

Stay tuned for more details on LinksWell's rugged overland build set for this year's SEMA Overland Experience. 

By SEMA Editors

The Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act (S. 2462 and H.R. 2696), introduced into the Senate and House of Representatives, has gained additional support as stakeholders across the industry voice their backing of the bill.

The PRI-supported, bipartisan legislation would accelerate the time it takes for tracks to recover the cost of their long-term investments, such as facility upgrades and improvements. The Act would make permanent a seven-year cost recovery period for investments, an incentive currently set to expire at the end of 2025 (more details here).

Indianapolis Speedrome general manager Jonathan Byrd recently told Wish-TV Indianapolis, Indiana, about its recent upgrades, including new concession stands, lighting, scoreboard, grandstands and a beer garden. Byrd emphasized why the bill is essential, as at least six of his fellow track owners have been unable to reopen their gates this year.

PRI track ambassador Tom Deery echoed Byrd's sentiments to Wish-TV Indianapolis, stating that the tax break helps motorsports and entertainment facilities continually reinvent themselves to ensure the best customer experience.

"When people come, they want to make sure that they've got the best possible experience," Deery said to Wish-TV Indianapolis. "So tracks are now looking at improving things like improving seating and restrooms and walkways. In one way, this is kind of an encouragement for those facilities to make that step."

Watch the Wish-TV Indianapolis video below.

SEMA's dedicated Washington, D.C. office will continue to provide updates on the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act. For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.

Court Ruling Halts Racing at Bloomsburg Fairgrounds Raceway (PA)

Officials with Bloomsburg Fairgrounds Raceway--the 3/8-mile clay oval in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania--have announced that races are halted indefinitely following a county court ruling on noise ordinances. Bloomsburg Fairgrounds Raceway regularly races 602 crate modifieds, FWD 4-Cylinders, 305 PASS Sprints, All-Pro SpeedSTRs, Central PA Legends, wingless sprints, ARDC midgets and more.

The track's statement is below.

On July 27, 2023, a hearing was held at the Columbia County Courthouse on a petition for a Preliminary Injunction filed by the Town of Bloomsburg against the Bloomsburg Fair [where the raceway is located.] The petition sought to enjoin the Fair from conducting any further automotive races at the Fairgrounds until such time as the Fair can show that racing can be conducted within the confines of the 65-decibel level as established by the Town's amended noise ordinance. 

On July 31, 2023, the Judge granted the Town's Petition, and although we are disappointed with the Court's decision, racing will halt at this time in compliance with the Court's Order. 

The Fair is presently considering its appellate rights in relation to this Order, and will continue to pursue damages against the Town for its losses in relation to this temporary shutdown of racing operations. We ask you to be mindful of the fact that the injunction order issued today is only preliminary, and the Fair will continue to litigate this matter in the Courts and fight for justice in the face of the Town's odious and unfair treatment of one of our area's most cherished organizations.

For additional racing industry news, visit the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) website.

By SEMA Editors

Stellantis has announced the aftermarket parts brand "bproauto" as its new line of high-quality, competitively priced replacement parts.

Following decades of success in Europe and other international markets, including the Middle East and South America, the bproauto parts portfolio is available for most makes and models to help combat the "rapidly changing aftermarket and the long-term shift to electrification as vehicles and their components are becoming increasingly complex and digital," the company stated in a release.

"While Mopar will remain the global original-equipment parts and authentic accessories brand for Stellantis, bproauto will offer an alternative for nearly all brands and all cars--new, used, owned, rented or shared. With Mopar and bproauto, our dealerships offer a 360-degree, multi-brand, one-stop-shop solution for nearly all customers, all vehicles and all brands," said Mike Koval, head of Mopar North America.

In North America, 30 parts categories will be available, with additional product lines that will phase into the Stellantis dealership network.

The following parts are available now from bproauto:

• Air filters
• Batteries
• Brake pads
• Brake rotors
• Hub bearings
• Oil and oil filters
• Tire-pressure monitoring systems

Additional products coming from bproauto will include ABS sensors; A/C compressors; A/C condensers; A/C evaporators; alternators; ball joints; battery cables; brake calipers; brake hardware; bulbs; chemicals; control arms; cabin and transmission filtration; belts/tensionsers; fuel injectors; fuel pump modules; functional fluids; headlamps; ignition coils; lubricants; O2 sensors; radiators; shocks; spark plugs and spark plug wires; starters; struts; taillamps; thermostats; tie-rod ends; timing belts/tensioners; U-joints; water pumps; wiper blades.

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors and attendees preparing for the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, can now lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

Several available properties are connected to the Las Vegas Monorail, the quick and reliable transportation alternative for travelers on the Las Vegas Strip. Directly connected to the SEMA Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Monorail is the easiest, fastest and most convenient way to get from one end of the Strip to the other in just minutes.

Be prepared for the most convenient transportation option during SEMA Week with 24-hour to 7-day passes available, and let your mobile phone be your ticket to ride.

Trains are scheduled every few minutes, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Monday; 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday; and 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. Friday through Sunday, at each of the following sessions: 

• MGM Grand Station
• Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas Station
• Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station
• Harrah’s/The LINQ Station
• Boingo Station at Las Vegas Convention Center
• Westgate Las Vegas Station
• SAHARA Las Vegas Station

View the map of the Las Vegas Monorail.

Exclusive Las Vegas Monorail Mobile Ticket Discount for SEMA Showgoers

Be prepared for the most convenient transportation option during SEMA Week with 24-hour to 7-day passes available, and let your mobile phone be your ticket to ride. And, even better news: Las Vegas Monorail is offering SEMA Show attendees exclusive fare discounts for mobile ticketholders. Purchase your discounted passes at tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA23. Skip the line and scan your phone right at the gate.

Paper tickets are also available at ticket vending machines and customer service desks at the station for full price.

Take Advantage of Monorail discounts for the 2023 SEMA Show! Purchase your discounted tickets here for the best rates available.

By SEMA Editors

In partnership with Ford Motor Company, the SEMA Garage is excited to announce a measuring session for the newly designed '24 Ford Mustang.

The event will allow SEMA members to test-fit prototypes, 3-D scan, measure and have a close-up experience with this vehicle.

Taking place across both SEMA Garage locations: 

SEMA Garage Diamond Bar

(View on Google Maps)

September 11-14, 2023 

SEMA Garage Detroit  

(View on Google Maps)

September 25-28, 2023 

Featuring two different vehicle models:  

Mustang GT Coupe Premium 

• 5.0L TI-VCT V8: GT 480 hp 
• 6-Speed Manual Transmission 
• Magneride Damping System 
• Active Valve Exhaust 
• 19-in. Brembo Brakes 
• Ford Co-Pilot360 

Mustang Ecoboost Convertible Premium  

• 2.3L Ecoboost 315 hp 
• 10-Speed Automatic TRANS 
• Magneride Damping System 
• Active Valve Exhaust 
• 19-in. Brembo Brakes 
• Ford Co-Pilot360 

In addition, SEMA Garage Detroit will exclusively feature the following:

Mustang Mach-E GT AWD (Detroit only)

• 88 KWH Usable Extended Battery 
• Single-Speed Transmission 
• 20-in. Aluminum Wheel 
• 19-in. Brembo Brakes 
• Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 

RSVP links to these exclusive SEMA Garage sessions are coming soon. Interested participants are encouraged to contact measuringsessions@sema.org for additional information.

By SEMA Editors

Wiseco Performance Products, a prominent name in the Race Winning Brands (RWB) family and the provider of automotive and powersports forged pistons and performance products, has announced the launch of its all-new website at wiseco.com.

"Wiseco Performance Products is excited to unveil our all-new website, designed to cater to the needs of our valued customers and racing community," said Scott Highland, director of marketing at RWB.

Customers can now purchase automotive forged pistons and piston components, as well as a comprehensive range of proven powersports performance components, directly from Wiseco. An intuitive interface also incorporates model and engine-specific filtering capabilities.

The Wiseco website is also a valuable resource for automotive and powersports performance enthusiasts with technical content, including engine-building tips, how-to guides, frequently asked questions (FAQs) and more.

Visitors can also access Wiseco's custom piston order form, installation and operation manuals, racer support information, and various other helpful materials at wiseco.com.

ExoMod Introduces Chalkstorm, a '68 Charger Built Over a Modern Hellcat

ExoMod, the company known for taking brand-new Dodge Challenger Hellcats, stripping them down to their safety cages and completely rebodying them in carbon fiber as bespoke widebody '68 Dodge Chargers, has built a custom Porsche Chalk colored masterpiece with 885 horsepower and a hand-built custom carbon-fiber body.

"ChalkStorm" started out as a '22 Hellcat Challenger and was cloaked in a classic '68 custom carbon fiber body, with significant weight reduction and a powerful, modern drivetrain that still retains its OEM warranty.

By Marissa Guajardo

The deadline for submitting press conference applications has passed, and the development of the official 2023 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule has begun. All exhibitors who have submitted applications should receive an email this week.

Those who did not receive an email and believe they should be included may contact pr@sema.org.

Companies will be notified of their assigned date and time by August 24 and will be required to provide confirmation in order to be included on the final schedule that will be published in early September.

Exhibitors are also encouraged to post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees.

If you have questions regarding press conferences at the 2023 SEMA Show or the online media center, contact pr@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Having the right business insurance that fits the needs of a shop owner or builder is critical in the automotive aftermarket. It's equally important to be well-educated on what policies exist, which ones are necessary and what they cover. 

Trent Campbell of American National Insurance and Franco Ganino of RevPro/Alliant shared the different types of business insurance that builders need to have in the recent Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) webinar What Builders Need to Know About Insurance Needs. 

Watch a top highlight of the webinar below, moderated by Amy Fitzgerald of Cool Hand Customs, and watch the full session by logging into your SEMA.org account here. By logging in, you will also receive access to HRIA's Business Insurance Checklist, which provides an overview of insurance coverage types, questions to ask when meeting with an insurance agent and definitions to insurance terms that an agent may use when discussing a policy.

By watching the full webinar, you'll learn best practices for reviewing your shop's insurance policy, definitions of common insurance terms and questions to ask your insurance provider that can help save you money.