By SEMA Editors

I-CAR has announced the official launch of CollisionCareers.com, an online experience dedicated to connecting individuals to rewarding opportunities in collision repair.

Collision Careers provides a neutral brand and platform for industry partners to collaborate while amplifying efforts to solve a talent crisis that, because of a combination of unfilled roles and expected retirements over the next five years, is estimated to leave the segment 100,000 skilled technicians short.

With the aim of building a bridge between job seekers or students exploring a career path and the collision repair industry, CollisionCareers.com and its associated social-media channels offer an authentic, comprehensive resource for students and career changers as well as the parents and school counselors who often influence their decisions.

Key features and benefits of CollisionCareers.com include: 

• Educational Resources: Powered by I-CAR, a neutral, not-for-profit education organization, the site empowers visitors with articles, tutorials and curriculum to build a foundation for collision-repair-knowledge and skills.
• Community: CollisionCareers.com fosters a vibrant community where professionals, industry experts and enthusiasts can connect, engage and garner valuable insights.
• Extensive School and Shop Search: Users can input their information to stay connected with Collision Careers as they consider the industry and peruse listings of local Gold Class shops and career technical education (CTE) schools by state for career or education opportunities.

"It is no secret that there are increasingly more available jobs in collision repair than there are people to fill them, and while there are many successful programs in the industry, individually, we each lack the scale necessary to address this nationwide, generational issue," said I-CAR CEO and President John Van Alstyne. "I-CAR will use our unique position as an organization of collaboration to unite and align efforts for the good of the broader industry."

For more information, visit CollisionCareers.com.

By SEMA Editors

Sources have captured the GT500 prototype near Ford's Dearborn Proving Grounds (DPG).

The prototype features strategically placed camo on the decklid and the rear window, which both hide a modified rear spoiler and conceal a full rollcage.

The all-new GT500 is expected around 2025, so it's uncertain if Ford is working on a special edition GT500 or instead testing components for the next-gen GT500.

'24 Ford Explorer Timberline Spotted in Dearborn

Also captured near the DPG was the '24 Ford Explorer Timberline. 

Although Ford has already introduced an electric version in the European market, the United States market is focusing on a refresh for the internal combustion engine (ICE) Explorers.

The '24 Timberline will be primarily a carryover compared to the other '24 Explorer trims. 

While no significant powertrain changes are expected for the '24 model, there might be slight improvements to the performance of the 2.3L EcoBoost engine and the 3.3L hybrid engine. These changes could result in a slight bump in power and fuel economy.

By the SEMA D.C. office

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has passed H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, and H.R. 4468, the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act. These SEMA-supported bills seek to preserve vehicle choice for consumers and prevent the federal government and the State of California from choosing only one form of technology (such as electric vehicles) (EVs) over the many others to achieve their emission reduction goals. 

SEMA has strongly supported H.R. 1435, the "Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act," a bill prohibiting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing a waiver to California for regulations that would ban the sale or use of new motor vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) in the state by 2035. Rep. John Joyce's (R-PA) legislation is essential to stopping California's plan to ban new ICE vehicles, which requires the EPA to waive provisions in the Clean Air Act for the mandate to go into effect. U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), the co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, recently introduced S. 2090, a Senate companion bill to H.R. 1435. Click here to send a letter to your Congress members asking them to support the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act by co-sponsoring the bill.

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) introduced H.R. 4468 in response to the EPA's proposed federal emissions standards for motor vehicles model years '27 to '32, which is designed to result in EVs making up 67% of all new vehicles sales by 2032. The SEMA-supported CARS Act would prevent the EPA from finalizing the proposed emissions standards on light- and medium-duty vehicles.

The EPA's proposal intends to lower carbon emissions in a way that essentially forces battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to become the only option for automakers to produce. Given the subsidies in place for EV purchases and production, EVs become the de facto choice to achieve the rulemaking's climate goals, as other options, such as hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, and multiple renewables, do not enjoy a level playing field of subsidies.

SEMA and more than 100 stakeholder organizations recently sent President Biden a letter expressing concerns about the EPA's Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards. The letter stated, "EPA's proposals inhibit the marketplace from identifying the most efficient, lowest-cost opportunities to reduce GHG [greenhouse gas] emissions from vehicles and greatly restrict consumer choice." SEMA will continue to engage in any proposed regulatory action that may lead to ICE bans. You can read the joint letter here.

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola provided official comments to the EPA in opposition to the agency's proposed new federal emissions standards for motor vehicles model-years '27-'32. In addition, SEMA's grassroots efforts have generated more than 7,700 comments by our member companies and enthusiasts from around the country.

For more information on these efforts, visit sema.org/advocacy/ice-bans.

By the SEMA D.C. office

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has passed H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, and H.R. 4468, the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act. These SEMA-supported bills seek to preserve vehicle choice for consumers and prevent the federal government and the State of California from choosing only one form of technology (such as electric vehicles) (EVs) over the many others to achieve their emission reduction goals. 

SEMA has strongly supported H.R. 1435, the "Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act," a bill prohibiting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing a waiver to California for regulations that would ban the sale or use of new motor vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) in the state by 2035. Rep. John Joyce's (R-PA) legislation is essential to stopping California's plan to ban new ICE vehicles, which requires the EPA to waive provisions in the Clean Air Act for the mandate to go into effect. U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), the co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, recently introduced S. 2090, a Senate companion bill to H.R. 1435. Click here to send a letter to your Congress members asking them to support the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act by co-sponsoring the bill.

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) introduced H.R. 4468 in response to the EPA's proposed federal emissions standards for motor vehicles model years '27 to '32, which is designed to result in EVs making up 67% of all new vehicles sales by 2032. The SEMA-supported CARS Act would prevent the EPA from finalizing the proposed emissions standards on light- and medium-duty vehicles.

The EPA's proposal intends to lower carbon emissions in a way that essentially forces battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to become the only option for automakers to produce. Given the subsidies in place for EV purchases and production, EVs become the de facto choice to achieve the rulemaking's climate goals, as other options, such as hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, and multiple renewables, do not enjoy a level playing field of subsidies.

SEMA and more than 100 stakeholder organizations recently sent President Biden a letter expressing concerns about the EPA's Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards. The letter stated, "EPA's proposals inhibit the marketplace from identifying the most efficient, lowest-cost opportunities to reduce GHG [greenhouse gas] emissions from vehicles and greatly restrict consumer choice." SEMA will continue to engage in any proposed regulatory action that may lead to ICE bans. You can read the joint letter here.

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola provided official comments to the EPA in opposition to the agency's proposed new federal emissions standards for motor vehicles model-years '27-'32. In addition, SEMA's grassroots efforts have generated more than 7,700 comments by our member companies and enthusiasts from around the country.

For more information on these efforts, visit sema.org/advocacy/ice-bans.

By SEMA Editors

Torqued Distribution, the creators of the Warehouse as a Service (WaaS) technology and the No-Cost 3PL program (NC3PL), has added AWE to its line card.

"AWE's technology-focused culture fits right in with what we're doing at Torqued," said Lou Lobsinger, head of sales and marketing for Torqued Distribution. "AWE's innovative team of engineers consistently brings to market some of the hottest exhaust products for the hottest applications. As of today, they have approximately 800 SKUs with coverage for modern muscle, Jeep, Euro, exotic, sport compact and truck."

By SEMA Editors

Each year, the SEMA Show displays hundreds of vehicles throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center as part of the unique Feature Vehicle Display program. The cars come from various categories and applications, allowing manufacturers to expand their footprint at the SEMA Show well beyond their booth.

Each vehicle accepted will also be featured in the SEMA Show app displaying the vehicle's image, make, model, year, color, products used as part of the build, builder's name, and the name and booth number of the sponsoring exhibitor company.

Applications are now open for the 2023 SEMA Show Feature Vehicle Display program here. For the complete rules, visit here.

When completing the Feature Vehicle application, you can request information on how you may enter your vehicle for the SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB). The competition is judged by industry experts, with awards presented to individuals who have demonstrated extreme talent, creativity and craftsmanship in modifying cars, trucks, SUVs, sport compacts and luxury and exotic builds.

Submit your Feature Vehicle Display application by Friday, July 28. Additional vehicles will be considered on a space-available basis. Exhibiting companies with multiple vehicle application submissions will be asked to rank vehicles based on priority.

For a complete list of SEMA Show deadlines, visit here.

For more information on the Feature Vehicle application, contact Maurice O'Connell at mauriceo@sema.org.

By the SEMA D.C. office

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee approved legislation that would drastically reduce the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) budgets for FY 2024. If enacted into law, the bill would reduce DOI's budget by $677 million and EPA's budget by $4 billion when compared to FY 2023. The appropriations bill also includes SEMA-supported amendments that prohibit the EPA from finalizing its proposed new federal emissions standards for motor vehicles model-years '27-'32, which are intended to dramatically subsidize sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and force the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to withdraw its proposed "Conservation and Landscape Health" rulemaking.

Representative Mike Simpson's (R-ID) amendment would prevent the EPA from finalizing its proposed emissions standards on light- and medium-duty vehicles, which the EPA estimates would lead to EVs making up two-thirds of all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States by 2032. Representative Dan Newhouse's (R-WA) amendment requires the BLM to withdraw its proposed "Conservation and Landscape Health" rule, which would allow the BLM to lease lands under new and vaguely defined conservation leases, incorporate new standards when evaluating traditional multiple-use decisions, expedite designations of new Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) and apply land health standards to all public lands. BLM's proposed rule undermines the Federal Land Policy and Management Act's multiple-use requirement for BLM lands as it would hinder access to public lands for recreation, forest management, energy and critical mineral development and grazing. SEMA has submitted comments opposing both the EPA and BLM rulemakings during the past month.

The House Appropriations Committee passed the bill by a margin of 33 to 27. The bill now awaits a vote on the floor of the House of Representatives. Congress must pass 13 appropriations bills for FY 2024 before September 30 or pass legislation to continue government funding at FY 2023 levels to avoid a government shutdown.

You can read more about SEMA's efforts to protect vehicle choice and motorized recreational access by visiting our advocacy page's ICE Bans and Motorized Recreation sections.

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

By the SEMA D.C. office

The SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC) hosted an extraordinary fundraising event that brought together more than 100 industry enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening of celebration and support. The event, held following the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala, was a resounding success, raising more than $40,000 in contributions.

Industry leaders and automotive aficionados united under one roof, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of the automotive aftermarket community. Attendees were treated to a delightful array of entertainment, networking opportunities and engaging conversations while supporting a cause close to their hearts.

Throughout the night, guests were inspired by Norris Marshall, PAC chair and founder and CEO of BluePrint Engines, as he shared how the SEMA PAC's advocacy efforts have made a direct and tangible impact on the industry. From preserving the right to modify vehicles to championing the freedom to access public lands for off-roading, SEMA's advocacy work highlights the significance of collective action.

The resounding success of this fundraiser was a testament to the power of industry unity and the dedication of those who believe in the importance of the SEMA PAC's mission. The $40,000 raised will fuel the PAC's advocacy efforts, enabling it to continue supporting candidates who champion the industry's unique interests and advocating for favorable legislation.

SEMA extends heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, donors and supporters whose generous contributions made this event a triumph. Together, we reaffirmed our commitment to shaping a vibrant future for the automotive aftermarket industry.

Thank you for being a part of this unforgettable journey. Here's to many more successful fundraisers ahead!

By Ashley Reyes

When it comes to business insurance, it's important for builders and shop owners to know what types of policies exist in order to choose the best coverage that fits their needs. Knowing how much coverage to get and what the insurance lingo means can help them better understand their policy and possible risks when in possession of a customer's vehicle.

During the recent SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) webinar, "What Builders Need to Know About Insurance Needs," Trent Campbell of American National Insurance and Franco Ganino of RevPro/Alliant shared common mistakes that shop owners make with their insurance coverage.

Watch highlights 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.

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.

By Ashley Reyes

Electric-vehicle (EV) conversions are a growing opportunity in the automotive aftermarket. For shop owners, technicians and product developers who work on these builds, it's crucial to clearly understand the safety practices and various EV components involved, as they are critical parts of the process.

SEMA members are invited to the "Skateboard Platform for Electric Vehicles" webinar on Wednesday, August 9, at 11:00 a.m. PDT to learn about the complete process of an EV platform. Attendees will hear from Adam Roe, founder, CEO and product architect of Zero Labs Automotive, as he teaches the components associated with an electrified vehicle and EV conversion, as well as the component names, integration, hazards and diagnosis that are present when converting a gas-powered vehicle to electric. 

Participants will walk away with a thorough understanding of EV conversions from the ground up and engage with Roe as he addresses detailed questions from the audience. Register today!