By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Education is launching "Powering Tomorrow: Unveiling the Future of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure, Presented by SkillFusion," a new three-part webinar series that addresses the state and opportunities of the electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) industry.

SkillFusion, an organization dedicated to solving electric vehicle (EV) charger infrastructure downtime, focuses on enhancing the EV-owner experience by increasing the number of certified labor technicians needed to maintain and repair EVSE technology. The first webinar, "The State of the EVSE Industry," will take place on June 25 at 10:00 a.m. PDT and provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the EVSE landscape.

Presented by Rue Phillips, SkillFusion co-founder and president, and Mark LaNeve, chairman of Franchise Equity Partners (FEP), the session will help participants understand key EVSE trends, challenges and opportunities.

Topics covered include:

• Industry Challenges: Learn about challenges faced by the EVSE sector, such as scalability and interoperability issues.
• Market Dynamics: Discover current market trends and dynamics shaping the EVSE industry landscape.
• Regulatory Landscape: Gain an understanding of the regulatory framework influencing the EVSE industry and its implications.
• Technological Advancements: Explore the latest hardware and software innovations in EVSE.

As the number of electric vehicles on the roads grows, charger reliability and uptime will play a significant role in owner experience. This webinar is your chance to stay ahead in the EVSE industry and engage directly with EVSE experts.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Chris Ierardi, national sales manager at Eastman Performance Films, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Ierardi in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling?  

Chris Ierardi: Honestly, by accident. I found myself working for LLumar right out of college in 2010 without any knowledge of the film or restyler industry. I can't say that it was my passion back then, but this industry is so unique and keeps me very engaged. No day or week is the same, and the industry is always changing and evolving. Supporting the growth of the restyler channel has always been a focus of ours as a company and for me as an individual. 

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?  

CI: My manager was a volunteer on the PRO select committee for the previous six years and invited me to the awards ceremony and reception as his guest a few times. It was great to meet so many restylers and learn more about what PRO is involved in; I couldn't help myself but to apply. Joining the select committee has allowed me the opportunity to learn so much more about the restylers and the other manufacturers that support them. The networking within the group has been incredible, I will have lifelong friends as a result of joining the committee. 

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?  

CI: I would first ask them, "Are you crazy?" I would also suggest that they be very flexible and dynamic before pursuing. If that is a struggle point for that individual, I would suggest going elsewhere. 

SN: What is your dream vehicle?  

CI: Any year of the Acura NSX, I have loved that car ever since Pulp Fiction. I live in Denver, Colorado, but I would prefer to drive this vehicle down the Pacific coastline. 

SN: What is the best advice you have ever received?  

CI: Work hard, stay humble. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

CI: The fact that no week is the same and that the industry is constantly evolving, and customers are always demanding more. A few years ago, the demand from customers was a higher-IR-blocking window film, but recently the latest demand has been colored PPF. As a manufacturer, we are always working on developing new products but also ways to improve our service offering to our customers. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

CI: I have two young daughters so likely at a dance studio, swimming pool or golf course. Even though I am not the player that I used to be, you can still find me playing men’s league ice hockey on weekend evenings. 

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.

Voting for the SEMA Board of Directors closes tonight, June 11, at 11:59 p.m. PDT. Don't miss your chance!

The following message is from SEMA Chairman of the Board Kyle Fickler:

As the SEMA Chairman of the Board, it is an honor and a privilege to serve YOU, the members of SEMA. Our industry's future direction depends on your participation during this Board of Directors election.

We realize your time is valuable, but we ask that you take a few minutes to read the candidates' bios at sema.org/2024-bod-candidates. This is your opportunity to have a voice and choose who will represent your company's best interests.

You should have recently received your election ballot for the 2024 SEMA Board of Directors. We urge you to open this email to cast your vote. If you have not received your ballot, request your voter log in via this link.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Together we will work to maintain our right to modify and enjoy our vehicles as we grow our already strong industry!

Sincerely,

Kyle Fickler
SEMA Chairman of the Board
Director of Business Development, ProCharger

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is hosting an online General Membership Meeting on Thursday, June 13, at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT.

Open to aftermarket professionals aged 39 and under, the meeting will be the ideal time to hear about FLN's current priorities for members, which include networking events and resources for career advancement. Attendees will connect with the select committee, discover volunteer opportunities, and walk away with new ideas to grow their professional network.

FLN membership is open to all SEMA business member employees aged 39 and under at no cost. The current membership roster represents some of the top technology, marketing and sales, operations, and executive minds in the automotive industry, and attending the meeting is a great way for current and prospective members to connect with up-and-coming like-minded individuals.

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show is already gearing up to once again serve as the industry homecoming in the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 5-8. 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. 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. 

2. 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. 

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

Mopar Reveals Limited-Production '24 Jeep Gladiator

Mopar is continuing its annual, limited-production, factory-vehicle customization program with a special-edition '24 Jeep Gladiator.

Limited to 250 units and built on the Rubicon trim, the Mopar '24 Gladiator features a black clear-coat exterior with topographical Rubicon trail graphics on the hood, bed sides and tailgate. The exterior graphics are accented with a red tracer and highlighted with the Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) logo on the hood and bed sides.  

Inside the cabin, custom two-tone Katzkin leather seats carry black and red surfaces with embossed Mopar logos in front. A matching red center console armrest and seat bolsters provide additional color contrast along with red accent stitching on the steering wheel, seats and instrument panel. A custom serialized Mopar '24 badge sits on the leading panel of the center console, just behind the shifter.     

Additional exterior content highlights include: 

• Mopar heavy-duty rock rails with step assist  
• Triple-hoop grille guard 
• Three-piece, body-color hardtop  
• Tri-fold hard tonneau cover  
• Spray-on bedliner 
• Front and rear grab handles
• Custom Mopar badge on tailgate 

Additional interior highlights include: 

• Mopar head liner 
• Black sill trim 
• All-weather floor mats 

The Mopar '24 Gladiator rides on standard 17-in. aluminum wheels with painted black pockets and mounted with Falken all-terrain tires. Power is delivered via a 285hp 3.6L Pentastar V6.   

For more information, visit mopar.com.

RealTruck Launches Eight-Figure Marketing Campaign

RealTruck, the Ann Arbor, Michigan-based aftermarket product manufacturer and retailer, has launched a multi-faceted, eight-figure marketing campaign.

Called "Bring Your Truck to Life," the program celebrates life's adventures through the lens of truck and off-road vehicle owners, featuring DIYers, families and mountain bikers who use their vehicles to pursue their interests.

"The 'Bring Your Truck to Life' campaign represents a milestone in RealTruck's evolution as a brand and business. It demonstrates our passion for building high-quality aftermarket accessories for truck, Jeep and Bronco owners around the globe," said Tony Ambroza, chief growth officer at RealTruck. "Every element in this campaign is designed to inspire enthusiasts and invite newcomers to customize their vehicles with RealTruck products in pursuit of life's adventures on four wheels." 

Developed in partnership with Croud, a full-service digital agency, the campaign will be featured on social-media platforms, YouTube, television, the RealTruck website and more. It also includes exposure across retail stores and will utilize real-life custom content from social-media influencers.

Additionally, the company will be working on multiple charity truck builds, culminating at the SEMA Show, November 5-8, 2024, in Las Vegas.

For more information, visit realtruck.com.

SAE International Partners with Pearson VUE to Deliver EV Supply Equipment Technician Certification

SAE International has selected Pearson VUE to deliver its new Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Technician Certification.

The partnership aims to address the shortage of qualified EV technicians to support the growing EV infrastructure in the US and around the world.

SAE developed the SAE EVSE Technician Certification to establish and verify skills and knowledge necessary for technicians to maintain, repair and operate EV charging stations. SAE EVSE Technician Certification will be granted to technicians who have fulfilled specific eligibility requirements and successfully passed the exam.

For more information, visit pearsonvue.com/sae.

By Ashley Reyes  

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Tara Demuth, administrative director of R&S Truck Caps and Truck Accessories, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Tara Demuth: That depends on the day. The beauty of advice (valuable advice from mentors or family) is that we gather it and can reference what we need when we need it. One of my favorites is: don’t be afraid to explore. In 2019, I took a crazy culinary adventure to Italy by myself. It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. The week before, I remember thinking how crazy I was not to speak Italian and go alone. But I did it! I learned so much about the food and culture, and also about myself and what I could accomplish. Don’t give yourself time to second-guess a decision to explore. Exploration could be a destination, but it could also be opening up to a new idea. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

TD: Since I work in my family’s business, the automotive industry has always been in my life in some shape or form. I enjoy exploring the variety of products available and the creativity in customizing vehicles to fit people’s lifestyles. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

TD: If I’m not in the barn hanging with my fainting goats and other small, feathered friends, you’ll find me with my husband out adventuring with our side-by-side and working on our LMTV overlanding project. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

TD: I prepare for a meeting by being as knowledgeable as I can about the meeting topic. Think ahead for possible questions to ask, or that could be asked of you. Always come to the meeting with notes but leave with more. 

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

TD: Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. A woman with such a platform possesses a wealth of knowledge. I’m certain she has her doctorate degree in overcoming obstacles and dealing with difficult people. That’s the kind of brain I would love to pick over lunch. 

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 Sources

SEMA News sources recently spotted the latest version of the '25 Yukon Denali Ultimate in Detroit, Michigan, ahead of its impending debut.

In front, the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate boasts a new blacked-out chrome grille, a feature exclusive to GMC's Denali Ultimate models. The redesigned C-shaped headlights flank the grille, presenting a new look teased in earlier previews. Additionally, an updated bumper incorporates new fog lights and blends dark and polished trim elements, according to the images.

The side profile features wheels with a technical design and a dark silver finish, body-colored door handles, Denali badging on the doors, and polished window trim.

At the rear, GMC has repositioned the Denali badge to a more central spot, ensuring it stands out. The C-shaped taillights keep their familiar design, while the refreshed bumper includes integrated exhaust tips and a black finish.

An official debut is expected in the coming weeks or months, according to insiders.

By SEMA News Editors

1963 Indianapolis 500 Winner Parnelli Jones, 90

Parnelli Jones, the 1963 Indianapolis 500 winner and accomplished racer across many disciplines, has passed away. He was 90.

Born Rufus Parnell Jones, he was the first driver to qualify for the Indianapolis 500 at an average speed faster than 150 mph, setting track records in 1962 and 1963. After retiring from racing, Jones fielded a team with longtime business partner Vel Miletich, winning the "500" in 1970 and 1971. The team also made ventures into Formula 1 and SCCA.

Additionally, Jones ran in the USAC Stock Car Championship for Bill Stroppe's Mercury team, and later teamed up with Stroppe to score five major off-road wins in the famed "Big Oly" Ford Bronco.

He is a member of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, the National Motorsports Hall of Fame and both the National Sprint Car and National Midget Halls of Fame.

To read more about Jones' life and career, visit indycar.com.

FIA Releases New Details of 2026 Formula 1 Regulations

The FIA, based in Paris, France, has released new details regarding the updated regulations for the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship.

Developed in partnership with the FIA Formula 1 Technical Working Groups and Formula 1 management, teams, power-unit manufacturers and others, the new regulations aim to produce smaller and lighter cars than the current generation and include all-new active aerodynamics systems.

The system, involving movable front and rear wings, will feature high-downforce and low-drag configurations used to improve corner and straight-line speeds.

For a detailed look at the new rules, visit fia.com. 

World of Outlaws Docu-Special to Air on CBS

A new one-hour special highlighting the World of Outlaws will air on CBS on Sunday, June 9 at 12:30 p.m. EDT.

The documentary-style show, World of Outlaws: The Dirt Road to Stardom, will highlight the World of Outlaws ladder system, ranging from dirt midgets to 410 sprint cars, with a focus on the NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series and the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series.

The special will showcase stars from both series, including 10-time World of Outlaws champion Donny Schatz, current points leader David Gravel, Buddy Kofoid, Cannon McIntosh, Ryan Timms and more.

CBS Sports Network will also broadcast a slate of World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car, World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Model and Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series races from throughout the 2024 season, presented in a half-hour special, beginning on Sunday, June 23, with the Late Model Dairyland Showdown.

For more information, visit worldofoutlaws.com.

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

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced this week that the Commonwealth would not adopt California's 2035 ban on selling new gas- and diesel-powered motor vehicles.  

"Seventeen states have attached themselves to California's emissions standards over the past 20-plus years. Nine states have passed laws or resolutions rejecting government deciding what technology American consumers must purchase and buy," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Virginia is now the first state in the nation to untangle itself from California's emissions standards and EV mandates. We applaud Governor Youngkin for this bold action that rejects the notion that California should determine policies for nearly half of American consumers. We urge other states to follow Virginia's lead." 

Virginia lawmakers passed a law in 2021 under Youngkin's predecessor, tying the state to California's emissions standards, which includes California's 100% EV mandate by 2035. Since then, SEMA-supported bills aiming to repeal the law have narrowly failed to pass the Democratically controlled legislature.  

Elected in 2021, Youngkin campaigned on repealing California's standards and pledged to follow through during his 2023 State of the Commonwealth address. 

"It defies common sense that in 2021, lawmakers decided that instead of writing our own electric vehicle laws, Virginia would simply do whatever California decided to do," said Governor Youngkin. "Because lawmakers outsourced their responsibilities and surrendered our values to California--Virginians face a mandate starting in 2024 that limits and eventually bans the buying of gas-powered cars or trucks. Unless we act, Virginia is hostage to the extreme policies of California. Common sense says that the law of Virginia should be written by elected leaders here--not outsourced to radical bureaucrats in California." 

In 2023, SEMA launched Driving Force Action, an independent expenditure campaign that supported candidates who pledged to repeal Virginia's internal combustion engine ban. Three of the four candidates backed by Driving Force Action won their races. Throughout the campaign, Driving Force Action made significant gains in educating voters and consumers in the Commonwealth about the limits of our freedom to choose the cars we love and the choices that best suit our families' needs. 

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