By SEMA Editors

In June 2020, the second-gen BMW 4-Series debuted, with its distinctive grille becoming quite notorious. However, only a short while has passed, and the automaker is already planning a mid-lifecycle update for this model. 

Photographers have captured a camouflaged prototype of the four-door GranCoupe,  a mid-lifecycle update for this model.

This prototype sports the M Sport Package, which may indicate BMW will discontinue the standard body kit option and equip all trims with the M Sport bumpers. The front of the car retains the sporty bumper intakes and the familiar grille design, along with redesigned LED graphics in the headlights, resembling the boomerang-style DRLs seen in newer BMW models like the facelifted X5/X6.

The taillights are concealed at the back, but the M Sport rear bumper continues from the previous model.

By SEMA Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

AFCO Performance Group

Mechanical Design Engineer

Boonville, Indiana-based AFCO Performance Group is seeking a highly motivated, hands-on engineer who wants to make a tangible impact and be part of a company's success story.

Canepa

Motorsports Technician

Porsche Technician

Entry Level Auto Detailer/Polisher

Canepa in Scotts Valley, California, is seeking several positions, including a Motorsports Technician who needs a broad knowledge of all mechanical aspects of a vehicle from suspension and brakes to engine and transmission. Applicants must also have experience in IMSA Sports cars, GTP and GT, Trans-Am WEC or equivalent racing background. 

MGP Caliper Covers

Sales Representative

MGP Caliper Covers in Chula Vista, California, is seeking a professional to relentlessly "hunt and farm" and "go-get and nurture" profitable sales for MGP Caliper Covers "by whatever legal and ethical means necessary."

For more information, including how to apply for jobs or to post job listings, visit the SEMA Career Center here.

By SEMA Editors

The 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, is gearing up to have incredible industry support from several different industry segments from across the world. Beyond the enormous buying power set for the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show also delivers scores of qualified trade, mainstream and new media members alongside established and emerging influencers. These unique attendees help exhibitors expand their branding and product lineups well beyond their booths, making the SEMA Show a sound investment for the year to come. 

"This year's SEMA Show is shaping up to be one of the best events to date. The industry support is reminiscent of our highest attendance records, and participation is trending above pre-pandemic levels," said SEMA Show Director Andy Tompkins. "From key buyers, top media members and qualified industry influencers, the professionals you need to help grow your business will be in Las Vegas, October 31-November 3. We're ready for this industry homecoming!"

Be Part of the SEMA Show Global Business Ecosystem

A company's credibility improves when news outlets publish stories about their offerings and services, one of the best endorsements a brand can receive. With more than 3,000 media members registered each year, the SEMA Show is the single-largest gathering of automotive media professionals in one location.

In addition, the Show is attended by influencers of all types, including those working for exhibiting members, marketers, suppliers, athletes, celebrities and more. Social-media influencers can help your brand establish social proof and build awareness. An influencer snapping a photo of your booth can drive purchase decisions and increase sales--at no cost to your business.

Everyone walking around the SEMA Show is part of the global automotive business ecosystem, offering the opportunity for participating companies to create brand evangelists from every sector in the marketplace.

It's never too early to get started on your SEMA Show exhibit plan. In fact, records indicate that a majority of attendees decide to attend the SEMA Show six months in advance, providing ample opportunities for pre-event connections that maximize your time on-site.

There is still time to secure booth space for the 2023 SEMA Show. Visit SEMAShow.com to start creating your Show plan today! Exhibitor, attendee, media and students/educator registration is available at SEMAShow.com/register for just $60 through September 29 and $120 after that date.

By the SEMA D.C. office

Maine's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has published a SEMA-opposed regulation submitted by an environmental group that, if approved, would require the state to adopt California's latest motor vehicle emissions laws and outlaw the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars beginning in 2035. Maine has historically followed California's tailpipe laws.  

SEMA believes that Mainers, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. Furthermore, the automotive industry is embracing new technology to make cars cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, alternative fuels and improvements to the internal-combustion engine. Simply put, the government should allow the market to continue to innovate all forms of technology that significantly reduce vehicle emissions, not just electric vehicles.

Click here to submit comments to the DEP by August 28, 2023.

For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is accepting nominations until Friday, August 4, for its 2023 council and network awards honoring the unwavering passion, dedication and innovative spirit that drives the automotive aftermarket industry.

The awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of council and network members and honor leading companies and individuals who have significantly impacted their respective industry segments.

"Among the nine SEMA communities in the council and network program are members who volunteer their time and expertise to protect, promote and advance the automotive aftermarket," said Zane Clark, SEMA vice president of membership, education, research and councils. "Participating in the nomination process helps ensure that SEMA is aware of all of the remarkable contributions that drive our industry forward and that no company or individual who deserves to be recognized goes unnoticed."

Nominations are open in the following categories:   

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year. 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year. 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Vanguard Award, Professional of the Year Award. 
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award, Business of the Year, Design & Engineering Award, Evolution of Hot Rodding Award.   
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC): Hall of Fame (awarded at the Performance Racing Industry Show).  
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year, Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award.  
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Retailer of the Year, Jessi Combs Ambassador of the Year.  
• Wheel & Tire Council (WTC): Hall of Fame.  

Award winners will be announced at each council and network's respective SEMA Show reception, which brings together influential industry leaders and members within each segment of the automotive aftermarket. Nominate today!

By Marissa Guajardo

The deadline to be part of the official 2023 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule is only four days away, Friday, August 4. Exhibitors who will make breaking news announcements that will interest a large number of media at this year's SEMA Show are encouraged to submit a press conference application today.

Once an application is submitted, exhibitors will receive an automatic email confirming their application was received. Those who do not receive a confirmation email or experience a technical problem are encouraged to reach out to pr@sema.org for assistance.

Since media are not required to attend press conferences, many exhibitors also choose to reach out to media through an alternative means, such as submitting a press release through the Exhibitor Online Media Center.

The deadline to be part of the official 2023 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule is Friday, August 4. To learn more about press conferences, the online media center, or other PR resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors, contact pr@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program. Apply here.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list features SEMA Show exhibitor product offers and contact information for builders looking to collaborate.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly. With each project vehicle required to be supported by a current 2023 SEMA Show exhibitor, all product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2023 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form.

Builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2023 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. For verification purposes, the Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used 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 2023 SEMA Show.

By Ashley Reyes

Networking is not only about trading information; it's a necessary investment that can help industry professionals build their reputations and establish long-term business relationships with mutual benefits.

SEMA members will not want to miss the next Wheel Tire & Council (WTC) Coffee and Conversation networking event, where they will establish valuable business connections and discuss the state of the wheel and tire industry. 

Taking place on Thursday, August 3 at 9:00 a.m. PDT, the event will feature an open discussion among attendees about the latest trends, innovations and market dynamics happening in the wheel and tire aftermarket. Attendees will gain insight into opportunities and challenges that other businesses are experiencing, share their experiences, exchange ideas and build business relationships that can further their career or company goals.

Organizers will introduce a discussion topic to start the conversation, but attendees are encouraged to bring a talking point that impacts their business. Register now.

Questions can be directed to Nicole Bradle at nicoleb@sema.org.

By the SEMA D.C. office

Join SEMA and PRI Political Action Committees (PACs) on Sunday, August 13, for an unforgettable day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) in a private-suite gathering to witness the heart-pounding action of the NASCAR Verizon 200 at the Brickyard.

U.S. law restricts trade associations like SEMA and PRI from funding political candidates, but our voices still need to be heard. A PAC allows association members to pool resources to support the lawmakers and candidates who stand up for the racing and aftermarket industry and protect individual freedoms such as vehicle purchase choice, off-road access and the right to race.

Tickets are limited and include suite and garage access, full catering and an open bar. Interested in attending or have questions? Contact PAC Manager Alicia Steger at alicias@sema.org or 202-796-2252 for more information. Space is limited and requires a purchase to attend--RSVP today!

By Ashley Reyes

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will host an open meeting and social gathering at the Kentucky Expo Center, Room B101, on Wednesday, August 2, from 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. EDT.

Set for the evening before the official start of the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) Street Rod Nationals, the meeting will provide HRIA members an exclusive opportunity to network with industry friends and learn how to get more involved within the council. Attendees will meet the HRIA select committee, unite with fellow members at large and learn about benefits that can help their business thrive. Complimentary drinks and snacks will be provided.

To sign up for the meeting and view the schedule for the HRIA Education Days seminars taking place at the NSRA Street Rod Nationals, August 3-4, click here.