By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members have until Friday, July 19, to submit their nominations for the prestigious SEMA Industry Awards at sema.org/awards.

Comprised of Person of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Channel Partner of the Year, Gen-III Innovator of the Year and Content Creator of the Year, the awards honor leading companies and individuals who have made significant contributions to the specialty-equipment industry.

Ian Lehn, founder of BOOSTane, was named 2023 SEMA Person of the Year for his outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry over a year-long-period.

Nominations are open for:

• Person of the Year: Established to honor a person for their outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment market.  
• Manufacturer of the Year: Honors a manufacturing company for its outstanding contributions and innovations.  
• Channel Partner of the Year: Honors a sales channel partner for its outstanding service to the sales, distribution, retail and/or e-commerce channel(s) of the industry. This includes maintaining proper inventories to service its respective channel and exceeding standards in providing suppliers with input and regular communication to help their products and programs succeed.  
• Gen-III Innovator of the Year: Honors a young, entrepreneurial individual, 40 years old or younger, who is creating innovative breakthroughs within the area(s) of industry opportunities, advancement, best business practices, technology and/or trends.  
• Content Creator of the Year: Honors a content creator for their outstanding contributions to the automotive culture and for creating a positive impact with automotive enthusiasts. 

In 2023, Ian Lehn of BOOSTane was named 2023 SEMA Person of the Year for having exhibited professionalism, service, integrity and ethics that propelled the industry forward; Lehn recently spoke with SEMA News to share his reflections of receiving the prestigious honor:

"Since the SEMA Show, I've felt a sense of responsibility to live up to what I believe it means to be our industry's Person of the Year, and hopefully make all the incredible people that have been bestowed the same honor, proud. So much of who I am is thanks to the people and experiences here at SEMA and the automotive aftermarket. I want to make sure that the next group of dreamers that want to make their way in our industry have one to go to."

If you are, or know of, a deserving candidate that has enhanced the automotive specialty-equipment in extraordinary ways over the past year, submit an award nomination today to ensure your entry is considered in the award selection process.

Winners will be announced and celebrated during SEMA Show week, November 5-8, 2024. The SEMA Show Kick-Off Breakfast, held on Tuesday, November 5, will award both Channel Partner of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year. On Thursday, November 7, the SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet will recognize Gen-III Innovator of the Year, Person of the Year and Content Creator of the Year. Entries for Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year--a SEMA Industry Award that recognizes exceptional quality of engineering on a vehicle build--will open in September. 

Visit sema.org/awards to submit your nomination before the July 19 deadline! Your participation is crucial in highlighting and celebrating the leaders and innovators who make a difference.

By SEMA News Editors

Mobile Solutions Announces MasterTech Advance Door Panel Fabrication Training

Mobile Solutions is hosting an Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training, August 9-12, at its headquarters in Tempe, Arizona.

During the event, attendees will utilize Mobile Solutions’ comprehensive training program that will include education on CAD design automation, 3D fabrication, upholstery and automotive finishes.

The MasterTech Advanced Door Panel Fabrication Training offers in-depth examples of three real-world design projects. Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from Bryan Schmitt and special guest, Tom Miller, automotive designer and fabricator.

For more information, visit mobilesolutions-usa.com/doorpanelclass.

Dragonfly Energy Empowers Youth With Actor Jeremy Renner and the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus

Dragonfly Energy, maker of Battle Born Batteries, spearheaded a recent collaboration that brought together innovation, music and youth to write, record and premiere an original song and music video.

Imagine: A Musical Collaboration with Jeremy Renner, is the result of two days of songwriting, recording, production, and filming and premiered at Artown, a 31-day celebration held annually in Reno, Nevada. The project was hosted by Dragonfly Energy, which supports the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus by providing Battle Born Batteries for the mobile recording studio.

Six talented children from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada joined the team from The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus and worked alongside actor and musician Jeremy Renner to complete the project.

To see the results of the project, click here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has rolled out two new benefits for business members, offering exclusive savings on global shipping and health insurance. These benefits, available through SEMA's partnership with the Gemini Shippers Association and USI Insurance Services, grant members access to cost-effective business solutions that are tailored to their individual needs. Claim these benefits now by logging into your SEMA member portal at www.sema.org.  

Gemini Shippers Association, known for its expertise in global shipping logistics, offers custom shipping solutions, competitive rates and reliable support for international shipping needs. By simplifying and enhancing the way SEMA members handle their international ocean shipping procurement, automotive manufacturers, suppliers and vendors can further expand their global reach and boost their competitiveness.

USI Insurance Services offers cost-effective insurance solutions for individual health plans and supplemental benefits, as well as group employee benefits like medical, ancillary and disability. Additionally, SEMA members have the option to enroll in an individual-term life insurance plan that guarantees coverage for $50,000, without any medical exams or questions. For those seeking higher coverage, a simplified issue option is available for up to $250,000.

Login to your SEMA Member Portal to claim these benefits.

Questions can be directed to your dedicated SEMA Membership Team at members@sema.org or (909) 610-2030.

By SEMA News Editors

New images of the rumored Ferrari F250 have emerged, according to SEMA News sources.

Following in the footsteps of the Enzo, which debuted in 2002, and the LaFerrari in 2013, Ferrari is developing another mid-engine marvel, which is believed to be the closest thing to a Le Mans car for the road, celebrating Ferrari's victory at the endurance race last June.

Details remain scarce, and according to insiders, even the F250 name is unconfirmed. However, it's believed that this will be the first in this line not to feature a V12 engine, instead utilizing the hybridized, 'hot-vee' V6 from the Ferrari 296 GTB. With the 296 GTB producing 932 hp and the hybrid V8 Ferrari SF90 delivering 1,000 hp, it's reasonable to expect the F250 to exceed these figures. A power output of around 1,300 hp, similar to the Gran Turismo concept, is highly likely.

The F250 will stand out from 'normal' Ferraris with its extensive aerodynamics, trusted sources said, and earlier spy shots of a test mule show a car with a massive rear wing, side air vents to feed the mid-mounted engine and a hood scoop reminiscent of the F50. However, it’s unclear from the images whether any of the aero components will be adjustable, although it's likely the F250 will utilize active aero technology similar to the systems on the 296 and SF90.

It is estimated that Ferrari will manufacture around 600 units, in addition to roughly 200 Aperta or Spider variants and a few dozen track-only models.

An official reveal is expected later this year or early 2025.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a huge win for industries impacted by federal overreach. In its decisions in Loper Bright v. Raimondo and Relentless v. Commerce, the high Court has provided increased regulatory certainty to small businesses around the country, including specialty automotive aftermarket companies, that have been adversely impacted by federal regulatory overreach. The Court's decisions overturned what is known as the Chevron Doctrine, which adopted the principle that judges should defer to federal executive branch agencies' interpretations of their powers when the laws that Congress has written are ambiguous or have gaps so long as those interpretations are reasonable. The Court's decision affirms that agencies cannot take actions that are inconsistent with, or not supported by, the language of the laws passed by Congress. 

These precedent-setting decisions will provide opportunities to revisit a wide array of regulations that affect so much of every day life--including issues that directly impact the specialty automotive aftermarket. For the last four decades, many energy, climate, health and safety regulations have been given deferential treatment in federal courts because of the Chevron Doctrine. During this time, federal agencies expanded the scope of regulations beyond congressional intent, which has adversely impacted small businesses that drive the U.S. economy.

This decision restores the checks and balances of our system of governance and rightly places authority back where it belongs: with the elected officials in Congress who are charged with drafting federal laws. The Supreme Court's decisions on these pivotal cases will help to reign in federal regulations where the executive branch has exceeded its statutory authority. 

Questions? Contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a huge win for industries impacted by federal overreach. In its decisions in Loper Bright v. Raimondo and Relentless v. Commerce, the high Court has provided increased regulatory certainty to small businesses around the country, including specialty automotive aftermarket companies, that have been adversely impacted by federal regulatory overreach. The Court's decisions overturned what is known as the Chevron Doctrine, which adopted the principle that judges should defer to federal executive branch agencies' interpretations of their powers when the laws that Congress has written are ambiguous or have gaps so long as those interpretations are reasonable. The Court's decision affirms that agencies cannot take actions that are inconsistent with, or not supported by, the language of the laws passed by Congress. 

These precedent-setting decisions will provide opportunities to revisit a wide array of regulations that affect so much of every day life--including issues that directly impact the specialty automotive aftermarket. For the last four decades, many energy, climate, health and safety regulations have been given deferential treatment in federal courts because of the Chevron Doctrine. During this time, federal agencies expanded the scope of regulations beyond congressional intent, which has adversely impacted small businesses that drive the U.S. economy.

This decision restores the checks and balances of our system of governance and rightly places authority back where it belongs: with the elected officials in Congress who are charged with drafting federal laws. The Supreme Court's decisions on these pivotal cases will help to reign in federal regulations where the executive branch has exceeded its statutory authority. 

Questions? Contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Come Showtime this year, the Las Vegas Convention Center will be filled with the latest products, innovations, technology, displays and services from specialty-equipment market brands during the SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas. Exhibitors can now maximize their impact on the Show floor by entering their products, packaging and merchandising displays into the SEMA Show New Product Showcase, the top destination for media members, buyers, decision-makers and automotive professionals to source the hottest products from the Show floor in one convenient location.

Submissions for the 2024 SEMA Show New Product Showcase are now open online at SEMAshow.com/newproducts. Show organizers recommend reading the complete rules and regulations online here.

Entering the SEMA Show New Product Showcase is a no-brainer: the first entry is always free of charge and can help build brand awareness, boost booth traffic and generate quality sales leads. And if you're looking to expand to markets beyond the United States, the SEMA Show provides a platform to launch products in 140 represented countries and territories, a reach that is amplified in the New Product Showcase.

All entries are considered and eligible for a New Products Showcase award (formerly Global Media Awards), providing even more brand exposure and recognition.

The SEMA New Product Showcase awards program recognizes the importance of automotive personalization and customization throughout the world. While the industry has strong roots in the United States, the appeal of making cars and trucks fit one's lifestyle is universal. Journalists from around the world attend the SEMA Show to identify new products likely to succeed in their home countries. The participating media represent some of the industry's top magazines and the editors are amongst the most respected in the world. Judges will select 10 products that they feel will most likely succeed in their home country. Exhibitors who have products that were selected will be recognized during a special ceremony at the SEMA Show.

Enter your company's products at SEMAshow.com/newproducts today!

Exhibitors: Learn key dates and find applications and submissions, such as the SEMA Show New Product Showcase, in this year's updated Exhibitor Service Manual. 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. 

Still have questions? No problem! Contact your SEMA Show sales representative at sales@sema.org, 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

Dennis Overholser, one of the co-founders of Painless Performance Products, has retained full ownership of the Fort Worth, Texas-based company. The company offers a diverse range of wiring harnesses, EFI solutions, switch panels and more.

Painless Performance's Dennis Overholser.

Established in 1990, Painless Performance Products has been one of the cornerstones in the automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries, renowned for its solutions that simplify wiring complexities. Overholser's ownership signals a new era of focused leadership and strategic growth for the company, according to a release.

Under Overholser's leadership, Painless Performance Products is poised to expand its product offerings, enhance operational efficiencies and strengthen its position as a market leader.

"We see a bright future ahead for Painless Performance Products," Overholser said. "Our focus remains on driving innovation and meeting the evolving needs of our customers. With ownership restored, we have the agility to respond swiftly to market demands and continue our tradition of excellence."

For more information, visit painlessperformance.com.

LSI Chemical Announces Appointment of Lorenda Stalnaker, Retirement of Julie Blankenship

LSI Chemical, a division of Mt. Gilead, Ohio-based oil and fuel additive manufacturer Lubrication Specialties, has named Lorenda Stalnaker as the company's new business development manager following the retirement of Julie Blankenship.

Lorenda Stalnaker brings more than 20 years of experience to LSI Chemical.

Stalnaker brings more than 20 years of marketing experience in marketing strategy, market development, product management, brand management, public relations and advertising.

Reporting directly to LSI Chemical's Vice President of Research and Development Kevin Adams, Stalnaker will develop the strategy for growing LSI Chemical’s global partnerships and product sales, creating support materials and will represent LSI Chemical at all trade events.

For more information, visit lsichemical.com.

Ben O'Connor Joins Total Seal as Director of New Business

Ben O'Connor, an executive with extensive experience in the high-performance automotive industry, has joined Total Seal, the Phoenix, Arizona-based manufacturer of piston rings, as its new director of new business.

Ben O'Connor of Total Seal.

O'Connor previously served in various roles at Klein Engines, Bear Brake Systems, and Impact Racing.

"O'Connor's skills, vast industry experience, and contacts will be instrumental in driving the company's success," said Matt Hartford, CEO of Total Seal.

Visit totalseal.com for more information.

Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Attendee, buyer and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show has been 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. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Set for November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2024 SEMA Show will once again reveal the future of the aftermarket as attendees connect with thousands of leading manufacturers showcasing the latest products, trends and technology in the industry.

Finding reasons to attend the 2024 SEMA Show is easy, including countless product innovations from new and iconic exhibitors, the latest custom vehicle trends and professional skill-enhancing education sessions led by top industry experts. Attendees can also partake in one-of-a-kind events and features, like the New Product Showcase, the No. 1 destination for discovering the hottest products in the automotive aftermarket industry, the dynamic Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish highlighting the techniques of influential builders, the world-class lineup of SEMA Education seminars and sessions, the newer Overland Experience showcasing customized vehicles in their intended environments and much more (more details can be found at semashow.com/attendee).

To assist professionals in demonstrating the Show's value to their employers, management offers a customizable sample letter to highlight specific benefits relevant to your business or market segment. This ensures that you can effectively communicate the potential impact on your day-to-day responsibilities and long-term business growth​​. View the SEMA Show sample letter to your boss as a PDF here.

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

By Ashley Reyes

Want to participate in educational sessions led by top manufacturers in the hot-rod space? Attend the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals, which will feature seven seminars--scheduled for July 12-13 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio--highlighting important information regarding manufacturers' trending product lines, as well as best practices for installing, working with and choosing certain products.

"We're excited to offer a lineup of seminars that will enrich the knowledge and confidence of the hot-rod community," said HRIA Council Director Marcy Yanus. "By attending the seminars, participants can engage directly with the manufacturers, gain clarification on processes and discover build tips that may be hard to find anywhere else."

Seminars include:

Friday, July 12:

• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Taking the Mystery Out of Tube Bending | Presenter: Trick Tools 
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: The Basics of Hot Rod and Musclecar Air Conditioning | Presenter: Vintage Air
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Instruments and Gauges: The Finishing Touch | Presenter: Classic Instruments

Saturday, July 13:

• 10:15 a.m.–11:00 a.m.: Brake System Basics | Presenter: Wilwood Disc Brakes
• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: An Introduction to Digital Gauge Systems | Presenter: Dakota Digital
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: Modern Suspension Technology for Your Classic Car | Presenter: Detroit Speed
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: So, You Want to Build a Hot Rod? | Presenter: Garret's Rod Shop

Seminars are free to all Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals attendees and pre-registration is not required. Descriptions of each seminar can be found at sema.org/hria-education-days.