By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show, November 5-8 this year in the Las Vegas Convention Center, offers an attendee experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members, but following are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here and at the bottom of this article) for this year's SEMA Show:

• Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends with approximately 2,400 brands across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo (tires) and Wheels & Wheel Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
• New Product Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan and download product photos and exhibitor information that will remain on your app long after the SEMA Show has ended.
• Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most important week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs exploring the industry's most significant challenges and offering immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
• Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built. Network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to see lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings, all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that will lead to real results and quality connections.
• Show Features: SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; the outdoors Optima Village; feature vehicle displays; SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions and Product Development; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the Overland Experience; and the SEMA Show Art Walk.
• Show Events: Unique events and activations such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the Industry Banquet and vehicle demonstrations will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
• And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and the second annual SEMA Fest, a celebration of motorsports, music and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to SEMA Fest. Visit SEMAFest.com to stay up-to-date and discover when tickets will be available.

Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of housing and travel discounts. Registration is only $40 for qualified attendees who register by June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

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

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2024 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2024 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors 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 2024 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org or call 949-373-9210.

By SEMA News Editors

Submissions for the 2024 SEMA Show Featured Vehicle Display are still open online here. Show exhibitors have until Friday, July 26, to submit their application to display their vehicles at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and organizers encourage them to view the full list of rules, regulations and application information here prior to applying. 

Showcasing a vehicle at the SEMA Show is an excellent marketing opportunity for companies to promote their brand's ingenuity to SEMA's thousands of attendees across all categories from lead industry decision-makers and professionals and buyers to social-media influencers with large followings. Accepted vehicles will also be promoted on the SEMA Show app. This promotion includes details such as its make, model, color, products used for the build, the name of the individual credited with the build and the booth number of the sponsoring company. 

But, not just any car can be showcased on the Show floor. To be considered for display, a vehicle must reflect some uniqueness to the automotive industry. These types of vehicles include race cars, prototypes, project builds, revived classics and antiques. These builds must be clean and undamaged, and any displayed logos and artwork on the car must be in good taste. 

Qualified exhibitors are guaranteed at least one display space, ensuring a fair opportunity for all. Organizers ask those with more than one Feature Vehicle submission to rank them by priority. Management will do its best to accommodate entries as space becomes available. However, we cannot guarantee all vehicles from the same applicant will be placed together, as we strive to maintain a diverse and engaging display for our attendees. 

For a complete list of 2024 SEMA Show deadlines, visit here. For more information on Feature Vehicle Display, contact Maurice O'Connell at mauriceo@sema.org.

SEMA's Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish 

Applicants can also request information on entering their vehicle in this year's Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish. Entries are judged by a panel of industry experts with awards for most unique and creative displays of craftsmanship across several categories at the Show.  

For more information on SEMA Battle of the Builders, contact botb@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

BMR Suspension

Polyurethane Motor Mount Kit for C7 Corvettes

The BMR Polyurethane Motor Mount Kit (PN MM570) decreases engine movement, according to the manufacturer, by replacing the soft rubber bushings with stiffer polyurethane bushings. Designed for street performance, drag racing and handling applications, the C7 Corvette Polyurethane Motor Mount Kit is a direct factory replacement and includes both upper and lower mounts to maintain factory engine height.

bmrsuspension.com.

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has released new seminar recordings from the 2023 SEMA Show Education Program that highlight the future of electrification and alternative fuels in the automotive aftermarket. 

The SEMA FutureTech Live sessions were part of the new SEMA FutureTech Studio--an exhibit within the Show that showcased what the future of vehicle propulsion may look like. The sessions offer valuable insights presented by experts in the electrification and alternative fuel space. Access the videos here.

Seminar recordings available include:  

The Future of Electrification and the Technology That Will Take Us There

Hear from a panel of global industry leaders, subject-matter experts and thought leaders as they discuss the application, benefits, integration and practical and scalable solutions that can accelerate decarbonization through alternative fuel technologies. Key talking points include the definition of alternative fuels and manufacturing processes; the application of alternative fuels in the automotive industry; emerging technologies and decarbonization targets; and the infrastructure and policies needed for mass adaptation. 

Moderator: Rob Ward (Legacy EV) | Speakers: Eddy Borysewicz (Revolt Systems), Chris Hazell (Fellten), Kirk Miller (Hypercraft USA), Lawson Sumner (Ampere EV)  

How Electrification Will Affect Your Business and What You Can Do About It 

This video offers insights into the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) and the opportunities that the segment provides. Topics include a brief overview of the current EV industry, consumer demand, training opportunities, and industry-driven policy and regulation. 

Speaker: Mavrick Knoles (Legacy EV) 

Fireside Chat with Electrification, The Next Generation of Hot Rodders 

This video offers insights into initiatives for training the next generation of hot rodders through the lens of electrification. Topics include accessibility into the EV space through education and vocational programming, and where the future of electrification is headed. 

Moderator: Rob Ward (Legacy EV) | Speakers: Apl.De.Ap. (Green Thumb Garage, Black Eyed Peas), Audie Vergara (Green Thumb Garage) 

The SEMA FutureTech Live sessions were part of a new SEMA initiative to create a robust career and professional development program for aftermarket professionals. The seminar recordings offer immediate knowledge and takeaways, highlighting new, fresh perspectives from top experts in the automotive community.  

Watch the recordings now and access additional seminar highlights from the 2023 SEMA Show at semashow.com/education-videos. 

By SEMA News Editors

The automotive specialty-equipment industry continues to see growth, strong demand, and less volatility this year, according to the new "SEMA State of the Industry--Spring 2024 Report," a biannual report focusing on the current business climate, key industry trends and metrics. The report is provided to SEMA members free of charge. 

A total of 48% of manufacturers reported an increase in company sales over the past year--an 8% increase compared to fall 2023. Distributors saw the largest sales shift, with 49% reporting an increase in sales, marking an 18% rise compared to last fall. Meanwhile, a majority of retailers (43%) reported that their sales remained steady. 

"Businesses across the board have continued to see improved sales growth, although rising costs remain a significant challenge across the industry," said SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp. "Our research suggests that despite the price increases, companies are optimistic about their future sales and the growth of the specialty-equipment market in the next three to five years." 

Key findings from the report include: 

• Sales Rising: More than half of manufacturers (57%), distributors (53%), and retailers (50%) expect their company sales to grow over the coming year. 
• Opportunity Segments: 38% of manufacturers view off-road as having high opportunity, while 36% of retailers see high opportunity in restoration and classic cars. 
• Help Wanted: A total of 84% of manufacturers and 80% of distributors expect to hire over the next year, particularly in sales, labor and engineering. 
• Prices Leveling Off: Many companies have increased their prices due to increased supplier and production costs, however, 43% of manufacturers, 34% of distributors and 34% of retailers/installers are expecting to hold prices steady over the next year. 
• Pickups a Segment Leader: Pickups remain the top vehicle segment for the aftermarket with the highest sales growth among manufacturers and retailers/installers over the past year. Still, companies see opportunities across a number of different segments. 
• New Car Prices Dropping: The average price for a new car is $47,244--a decrease of 2% vs. May 2023. 

Chapters within the report include industry performance, sales shifts by channel, vehicle segment insights, product and vehicle trends, manufacturer insights, and retailer and installer trends. 

SEMA business members can download the report for free as a benefit of membership at www.sema.org/research.   

By Ashley Reyes

Having motivated employees is crucial to the success of any organization as it leads to higher productivity, increased efficiency, and a healthier and positive workplace culture.

SEMA members are invited to attend the webinar "Motivating Employees, presented by the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)" on June 18 at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) to learn how to motivate team members to excel in the workplace. Attendees will hear from a panel of automotive aftermarket experts as they discuss strategies that participants may have not considered before and what has worked for them and their companies.

Join the webinar and hear from:

• Love Lontoc, content and events specialist at KW Automotive North America, Inc. (Moderator)
• Jaclyn Sunseri, CDMP, vice president of media at Hemmings (Speaker)
• Kevin Gillis, general manager at Integrity Customs (Speaker)
• Sean Sawyer, operations manager at Classic Recreations (Speaker)

This is your chance to discover new ways to inspire your employees to perform their best, setting up your team for success. 

Register today!

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Biden Administration recently announced tariff increases on Chinese products in response to China's unfair trade practices concerning technology transfer, intellectual property and innovation. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) increased tariffs on $18 billion of imports from China, including on electric vehicles (EVs), semiconductors, steel, aluminum, solar panels and medical equipment. 

The Administration has increased tariffs by nearly 400%--from 25% to 102.5%--on any imported Chinese EVs to aid American auto manufacturers in remaining competitive, protecting domestic jobs and national security. According to the findings of a four-year review of trade with China, the tax rate on imported Chinese EVs will rise to 102.5% this year, up from the total level of 27.5%. The review was undertaken under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, allowing the government to retaliate against unfair trade practices or violations of global standards. 

Under the 301 guidelines, the tariff rate on the following products will also increase: 

• Solar cell imports will double to 50% this year. 
• Chinese steel and aluminum products will climb from 0 to 7.5% to 25% this year. 
• Computer chip tariffs will double to 50% by 2025.  
• Lithium-ion EV batteries will increase from 7.5% to 25% this year, and tariffs for non-EV batteries will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2026.  
• Higher tariffs will also be applied to ship-to-shore cranes, critical minerals and medical products. 

The Administration's announcement of increased tariffs comes on the heels of the Department of Treasury finalizing a rule implementing the 30D Clean Vehicle Credit for electric vehicles from the Inflation Reduction Act. Critics on Capitol Hill have introduced a bipartisan Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval to overturn the rule that would allow the $3,750 EV battery minerals credit to continue to use the 50% roll-up of materials from Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) such as China as a transition rule until 2027. The CRA is led by Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Mike Braun (R-IN). Representatives Carol Miller (R-WV) and Jared Golden (D-ME) are introducing a companion resolution in the House of Representatives. 

SEMA has previously reported on findings that similar tariffs caused economic harm and will continue to monitor any changes that may arise. 

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

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Biden Administration recently announced tariff increases on Chinese products in response to China's unfair trade practices concerning technology transfer, intellectual property and innovation. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) increased tariffs on $18 billion of imports from China, including on electric vehicles (EVs), semiconductors, steel, aluminum, solar panels and medical equipment. 

The Administration has increased tariffs by nearly 400%--from 25% to 102.5%--on any imported Chinese EVs to aid American auto manufacturers in remaining competitive, protecting domestic jobs and national security. According to the findings of a four-year review of trade with China, the tax rate on imported Chinese EVs will rise to 102.5% this year, up from the total level of 27.5%. The review was undertaken under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, allowing the government to retaliate against unfair trade practices or violations of global standards. 

Under the 301 guidelines, the tariff rate on the following products will also increase: 

• Solar cell imports will double to 50% this year. 
• Chinese steel and aluminum products will climb from 0 to 7.5% to 25% this year. 
• Computer chip tariffs will double to 50% by 2025.  
• Lithium-ion EV batteries will increase from 7.5% to 25% this year, and tariffs for non-EV batteries will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2026.  
• Higher tariffs will also be applied to ship-to-shore cranes, critical minerals and medical products. 

The Administration's announcement of increased tariffs comes on the heels of the Department of Treasury finalizing a rule implementing the 30D Clean Vehicle Credit for electric vehicles from the Inflation Reduction Act. Critics on Capitol Hill have introduced a bipartisan Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval to overturn the rule that would allow the $3,750 EV battery minerals credit to continue to use the 50% roll-up of materials from Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) such as China as a transition rule until 2027. The CRA is led by Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Mike Braun (R-IN). Representatives Carol Miller (R-WV) and Jared Golden (D-ME) are introducing a companion resolution in the House of Representatives. 

SEMA has previously reported on findings that similar tariffs caused economic harm and will continue to monitor any changes that may arise. 

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

By SEMA News Editors

Alfa Romeo Announces the End of the Quadrifoglio in the U.S.

The '24 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Super Sport (left) and Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport (European spec) will be available in limited quantities in the fall of this year.

Alfa Romeo announced the sendoff of the four-leaf clover badge series--The Quadrifoglio--in the United States with the '24 Giulia and Stelvio Super Sport Limited Edition models.

"While we look forward to the future of the four-leaf clover with the amazing performance benefits of electrification, the twin-turbo V6 Super Sport is a fitting final chapter to the combustion engine Quadrifoglio in the U.S.," said Senior Vice President of Alfa Romeo North America Larry Dominique. 

The high-performance variants of the Giulia and the Stelvio are limited and set to hit American dealers in the fall of 2024 with no more than 124 units. MSRP for the sporty Giulia is set at $86,770 while the SUV-sized Stelvio is priced at $94,370. 

For more information on Alfa Romeo's 2024 Quadrifoglio, read the full press release here. 

Stellantis Announces Changes in Leadership Team

Stellantis announced the organizational changes, effective June 1, 2024.

Chris Feuell is appointed Ram brand CEO in addition to her current responsibility as Chrysler brand CEO, replacing Timothy Kuniskis who has decided to retire after nearly 32 years with the Company. Feuell will continue to lead the electric transformation of the Chrysler brand and take the leadership of the Ram brand.

Matt McAlear is appointed Dodge brand CEO, replacing Timothy Kuniskis. McAlear will become a member of the Top Executive Team. In his previous role, he led Dodge sales operations and has broad experience in the automotive industry as well as in the medical and digital sectors, providing him with the foundation to lead the Dodge brand.

"I want to take the opportunity to warmly thank Tim for his passion, commitment and contributions to Stellantis and in defining the vision of the future electrified Ram and Dodge brands. I wish him well in his retirement," said Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares. "I am confident that Chris will continue the work of Tim in leading the iconic Ram brand. Matt will bring a fresh perspective, while continuing to draw on the heritage of our iconic Dodge brand and leading the transition of the brand toward a sustainable future."

For more information, visit stellantis.com.

Autofleet Announces Nova, the AI-Powered Large Language Model for Fleet Management

Autofleet, the optimization platform for fleets and transportation providers, has announced the launch of Autofleet Nova, designed as the industry's first fleet-specific large language model (LLM) powered by advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to help fleet operators use plain language to gain comprehensive insights across their operations. 

Nova is a designed to be a game-changer for the fleet industry, leveraging AI and natural language processing to unlock data and insights that were previously out of reach to fleet users. With Nova, fleet professionals can access comprehensive answers to complex queries, eliminating the need for a team of analysts and developers.

"Nova will transform how fleet businesses operate by democratizing access to data, and by providing non-technical business and operational stakeholders with the tools to make data driven decisions," said Kobi Eisenberg, CEO and co-founder of Autofleet. "Nova's ability to integrate data from any source and generate new contextual insights bridges the gap between different roles within the business, and empowers fleet operators to make smarter, more informed decisions and take immediate actions."

Key features of Autofleet Nova include:

• Comprehensive: Integrated into any fleet data source across reservations, telematics, CRM, HR, and more, giving an unprecedented, unified view of operations.
• Context Aware: Combines previously siloed, disparate data sources to generate new fleet-specific insights while allowing users to ask follow-up questions contextually.
• Quick to Rollout: Out-of-the-box plugins enable rapid integration with most major databases, including Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Snowflake and MongoDB.
• Enterprise Grade: Supports data segregation for roles and permissions with industry-leading security and fast performance.

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