By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is hosting a networking mixer at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona. The event will take place on May 16, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (MST) in the Oasis Bar and Food Court.

FLN members are invited to attend the mixer, where they will grow their professional network and learn about career-building resources for young professionals in the automotive specialty-equipment market. Attendees will meet the FLN select committee, discover open volunteer opportunities and forge valuable relationships with peers and pros in the overlanding space. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be served.

Industry members aged 39 and under are invited to attend, as it's a great way to introduce yourself and learn what FLN membership has to offer. 

RSVP here.

By SEMA News Editors

Tuffy Security Products

Lockable Storage Solutions for '24 Jeep Wrangler

Tuffy Security Products has introduced multiple new lockable storage solutions for the '24 Jeep Wrangler, including a slip-in center console safe made of 16-gauge steel with a powdercoat finish; an in-floor locking cubby cover for four-door models; the Tuffy Tailgate Lockbox for tools, camping and other gear; tailgate storage with a Molle system for additional quick-access storage; and a rear deck-enclosure lid that works in conjunction with the Jeep's locking tailgate.

tuffyproducts.com

Wilwood Disc Brakes

Single Pedal Assemblies for Tandem Master Cylinders

Wilwood has engineered new pedal assembly bases to accommodate its Tandem Master Cylinder lineup for floor- and swing-mount applications. The foot pedal pad can change the horizontal position up to 1 in. for driver preference and a movable pad head has three positions to change the pedal ratio. All pedal arms are manufactured using high-strength, lightweight forged aluminum. 

wilwood.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Petersen Museum to Open Lowrider Exhibit

The Petersen Automotive Museum is set to open a new exhibit highlighting the artistry and craftsmanship of the lowrider and its contributions to automotive history.

Set to open on May 11, the exhibition includes iconic lowrider vehicles and those newer to the scene, all featuring customization in various aspects of the lowrider build, from paint and metal finishing to interiors and hydraulics, museum officials said. The development of these techniques and practices over time is explored, and award-winning vehicles are also featured.

For more information regarding the exhibit and the opening event, visit petersen.org.

THE SHOP Names New Account Executive

THE SHOP magazine has named Fletcher Allen as its new East Coast account executive.

Allen brings previous experience within Cahaba Media Group, the parent company of THE SHOP, as a sales development representative with Construction Business Owner magazine.

Allen will act as account executive to Eastern U.S. brands, while Krystal Franklin will continue to oversee West Coast accounts.

For more information, visit theshopmag.com.

NHRA Names New South Central Division Director

The National Hot Rod Association has named Jonathan Johnson as the division director for the South Central Division (Division 4).

Johnson will oversee NHRA member tracks in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi.

Prior to being named NHRA division director, Johnson was the president at JKJ Auto Parts and was most recently the south region parts and service manager with National Trailer Source, the NHRA said.

For more information, visit nhra.com. 

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

By SEMA News Editors

Toyota will prepare for assembly of an all-new, three-row battery-electric (BEV) SUV in the United States as part of a new $1.4 billion investment in its Princeton, Indiana, facility.

This investment will provide plant infrastructure to build the all-new BEV and add a new battery pack assembly line using lithium-ion batteries supplied by Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina, a $13.9-billion facility slated to begin production in 2025.

Since 2021, Toyota has announced new investments totaling $18.6 billion into its U.S. manufacturing operations to support electrification efforts.

The investment follows the announcement of an additional $1.3-billion investment in Toyota Kentucky for the production of a separate all-new, three-row battery-electric SUV.

For more information, visit toyota.com.

By SEMA News Editors

WIMNA and Parity Announce 'Women With Drive Miami' Event

Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) and Parity, the sports marketing and sponsorship platform dedicated to closing the gender income and opportunity gap in professional sports, are teaming up to host the Women with Drive Miami event ahead of the F1 Miami Grand Prix. 

The event will feature a reception and panel discussion to celebrate industry trailblazers on Friday, May 3, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The panel will focus on women as leaders and competitors in society and motorsports and feature 2023 Porsche Sprint Challenge Champion Ashley Freiberg, 2023 F1 Academy Champion Marta García, Chief Diversity Officer for Seminole Hard Rock Stephanie Piimuana, and motorsports legend Lyn St. James, with Parity CEO Leela Srinivasan moderating. The discussion will cover current issues and opportunities for a more diverse and inclusive motorsports industry.

For more information, visit womeninmotorsportsna.com. 

Jaguar Commits to Formula E GEN4 Era

Jaguar, the England-based vehicle manufacturer, has committed to the FIA's Formula E World Championship forthcoming GEN4 platform, solidifying its role in the series until 2030.

The new GEN4 platform will offer improvements to energy efficiency, race performance, and safety standards, according to Formula E, and will introduce new features such as regeneration capacity up to 700kW and a power output surge up to 600kW.

For more information, see the full announcement on fiaformulae.com.

Formula 1 Mulls Change to Championship Points, Launches U.S. Streaming Channel

The Formula 1 Commission has discussed changes to its championship points allocation system during its second 2024 meeting, according to the series, with a proposal for changes slated to be presented to the Commission later this year.

The group, led by FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, also discussed 2025 preseason testing dates and venues, as well as the introduction of rear-facing cameras. 

For the full wrap-up, click here.

Additionally, Formula 1 is launching a new, subscription-free streaming channel in the United States ahead of next month's Miami Grand Prix. 

Available on services including Samsung TV Plus, Amazon Freevee, and Pluto TV, Formula 1 Channel will show F1, F2, F3, and F1 Academy race replays and highlights, full reruns of classic Grands Prix, and racing documentaries. 

For more information, see the full announcement on formula1.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Volunteers are essential to SEMA and the industry throughout the year, assisting SEMA staff with many of the member benefits that the association offers. From planning and executing programs to developing solutions to market-specific challenges, volunteers work diligently to benefit the automotive aftermarket community.

In celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 21-27), SEMA is proud to honor its volunteers who give so much to the industry. It's through their time, passion and knowledge that SEMA, as a trade association, can fulfill its mission to help its business members succeed and prosper. 

"Many of the programs that SEMA offers would not exist without our volunteers," said Zane Clark, SEMA vice president of membership, education, research and councils. "We are extremely grateful for their contributions, whether that be through one of our nine council and network communities, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, our charity arm SEMA Cares or being involved in our legislative efforts."  

Key programs led by volunteers that have flourished in the past year include the Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program for aspiring aftermarket leaders held in partnership with Dale Carnegie Training, the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Cup Challenge competition at the SEMA Show for automotive restylers, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum and the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)/Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Career Fair for students pursuing careers in the automotive field. These events not only raised awareness of the various industry segments and career opportunities available but also helped industry members elevate their careers and businesses.   

SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) volunteers promoted the hot-rod and automotive restoration markets at consumer-driven events. HRIA volunteers organized the HRIA Education Days program that educates aftermarket consumers about hot-rod manufacturers' products through educational seminars at the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) Street Rod Nationals. ARMO volunteers hosted their ARMO Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle, raising awareness of 81 products from ARMO member companies in a high-traffic area of the event. Both of these programs allowed manufacturers the opportunity to gain exposure of their brand and educate the industry about their product offerings. 

Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) volunteers are expanding the diversity of East Coast media and manufacturers who attend the MPMC Media Trade Conference, announcing that the event is relocating from Los Angeles, California, to Orlando, Florida, in 2025. The conference is a staple program that makes it easy for motorsports manufacturers to share detailed information about their products with journalists, editors, writers, podcasters, content creators and social-media influencers.

Volunteers of the newly rebranded Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC)--previously the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC)--hosted monthly Coffee & Conversation events over the past year, offering industry members a convenient, online platform to discuss industry opportunities and expand their professional network. Volunteers led discussions on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), legislative changes, new vehicle technology and more. "The discussion is short and packed with nuggets to help most anyone connected in the business," said Kelly Austin of 9six9 Wheels. 

Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) volunteers showcased the diverse truck and off-road industry landscape through its TORA feature vehicle program at the 2023 SEMA Show. The program highlighted 10 vehicle builds from TORA member companies in a premier Show location, highlighting the unique ways that aftermarket products and technologies can be used.  

SEMA Cares volunteers continue to make a positive impact beyond the automotive community, raising $138,064.33 in 2023 to benefit its partnering children's charities: Austin Hatcher Foundation for pediatric cancer; Childhelp for the prevention and treatment of child abuse; and Victory Junction camp for children with serious medical conditions and illnesses. By incorporating the joy of automotive into fun activities and fundraising, SEMA Cares volunteers are able to give young minds a very important relief from hard circumstances, even if only for a brief moment.

During National Volunteer Appreciation Week, SEMA extends its gratitude to all volunteers who continue to make a difference in the industry and the lives of others. For information on how to volunteer for SEMA councils and networks, fill out the council inquiry form. To learn more about volunteering for SEMA Cares, visit sema.org/sema-cares. 

By SEMA News Editors

Hotel reservations are open online here for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. 

Stay at the Golden Nugget for an average of just $150 per night. Or, book rooms at several additional properties around Vegas offering SEMA Showgoers the best possible rates through onPeak.

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Booking a 2024 SEMA Show hotel provides unparalleled benefits, including the ability to:  

• Guaranteed Lowest Rates: Booking through the SEMA block guarantees our Showgoers the lowest rates in Las Vegas during the SEMA Show.
• Earn Hotel Rewards Points: We know how important and valuable your hotel rewards points can be and how quickly they can add up when you travel to events and trade shows. That's why your reservation at an official hotel counts towards your hotel loyalty program. Simply enter your rewards number when securing your reservation, and you're all set. The benefits are endless when you book in the SEMA Show block!
• Access Fully Flexible Booking: We know plans change, so that's why there are no change fees and no full pre-payment required at the time of booking, unlike most other booking channels. You can make changes or cancel your reservation without penalty until October 10, 2024. There's no downside to booking today!
• Access Easy Group Bookings: Book your entire group--large or small--in real-time with immediate confirmations. Nab the rooms you need now and log in later to assign specific guests. Rooms can be selected based on your team's specific nights and stay patterns, and you can manage payment for your whole block or guarantee each room with separate credit cards--it's that easy. 
• Source A Sustainable Hotel Stay: onPeak is available to help you feel confident about living a sustainable lifestyle. View Las Vegas hotel's sustainability plans on the onPeak website at onpeak.com/sustainability and read up on a few helpful travel tips at blog.onpeak.com. 

Securing housing is just one of the first steps on the road to the 2024 SEMA Show. Attendee and media registration opens on Monday, April 29, and the SEMA Show Exhibitor Services Manual and additional exhibitor resources will also go live on Monday, April 29.  

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show and SEMA Fest. 

By SEMA News Editors

Registration is open for this year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, July 24-25, Las Vegas, West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The valuable event is organized by SEMA Show management for exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas. Registration is available for up to two company representatives who want to take advantage of this complimentary program, and SEMA will provide housing and several meals during the event.

While undoubtedly valuable for first-time exhibitors, the Summit is also geared toward returning and long-time exhibitors of the SEMA Show. If you think you "know it all" about the Show, you'd be surprised by how much relevant business-boosting information is distributed during the program. Just take it from the industry staple Caliber Products, which manufactures precision-engineered trailer accessories and exhibits in the Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road category at the SEMA Show.

"Attending the SEMA Exhibitors Summit has been a game-changer for us. The networking opportunities are unmatched, allowing us to forge valuable partnerships and secure media coverage for our new products. The Summit's emphasis on showcasing innovation has helped our brand stand out, even leading to recognition with a prestigious SEMA New Product Award," said Zach Eyman of Caliber. "Plus, the educational sessions have empowered Caliber to navigate the industry landscape with confidence. If you're serious about launching new products and maximizing your brand's visibility, the SEMA Exhibitors Summit is a must-attend event."

Indeed, the road to the SEMA Show begins with the Exhibitor Summit, the education-packed program featuring everything a company needs to deliver the best ROI from its SEMA Show experience. 

This year's Summit, now in the Las Vegas Convention Center's West Hall, will feature new-for-2024 information straight from the people responsible for the industry-topping automotive specialty-equipment trade show.

The SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit is the best way to learn how to:

• Take advantage of SEMA value-added programs.
• Use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth.
• Save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses.
• Work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI.
• Learn to plan appropriately and budget expenses.
• Explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods.

Register for the 2024 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit here. For more information, visit semashow.com/exhibitor-summit. Note: You are officially registered once you receive a confirmation email from the SEMA Show staff.

2024 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit
(Complimentary for all 2024 exhibitors; hotel and several meals provided by SEMA.)
July 24-25, 2024
West Hall Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
Register here.

Exhibitors: Submit your ESRA application online today (more exhibitor resources here). And, hotel reservations for the 2024 SEMA Show are open online here. Attendee and media registration opens on Monday, April 29.

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

The Society for the Advancement of Material & Process Engineering (SAMPE) is offering SEMA members an exclusive 10% discount to attend the annual Expo and Conference, May 20-23, in Long Beach, California.

Join thousands of industry partners at SAMPE's premier event, where new and innovative materials and business solutions take center stage. Engage directly with domestic and international buyers, manufacturers and suppliers across diverse sectors such as aerospace/aircraft, automotive, marine, energy and more.

SAMPE's conference is the ultimate showroom for advanced materials and processes, bringing together gearheads, technicians, executives, engineers, scientists, students and professionals shaping the future of materials innovation. 

Why Attend SAMPE?

• Keynote Speaker: Stephen Heinz of Syensqo Composite Materials Division.
• Hydrogen Workshop: Co-sponsored with the Dept. of Energy, this workshop will inform attendees about using fiber-reinforced composites in hydrogen applications, including use in fuel-cell technologies, hydrogen storage tanks and much more.
• Additive Manufacturing Track: Buckle up for a full day of education sessions devoted to additive manufacturing.
• Technical Presentation Tracks: SEMA members will find many topics to fuel their thirst for knowledge.  

Interested? Go here to learn more and register. Take advantage of the 10% discount by using code "SEMA" when registering, and the discount will be applied to your payment.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Board of Directors Member and CEO of Quadratec Ted Wentz will join the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC) as a guest speaker for the council's upcoming Coffee and Conversation event on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. (PDT).

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations are monthly networking events held online that bring together industry professionals to discuss business opportunities in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake segments. During this session, participants will have an opportunity to engage with Wentz on his expertise on the council's four markets and the Board's strategic initiatives as they relate to the WTSB segment of the industry.

"As the CEO of a well-known off-road parts and accessory retailer and distributor, Wentz understands first-hand many of the issues that aftermarket companies face," said WTSBC Council Director Nicole Bradle. "The knowledge that he shares will be a great benefit to our members and we are excited to welcome him for what will be an engaging conversation."

While the discussion will focus on Wentz's expertise, attendees will still have an opportunity to converse with other members, making it the ideal time to grow one's professional network and exchange ideas for business growth. Join the conversation by registering here.