By Ashley Reyes

Time is running out for employees of SEMA member companies to increase their involvement and participation in the automotive specialty-equipment industry by volunteering for a SEMA council or network select committee leadership role. Submit your application by the Friday, April 19, deadline here.

Select committee volunteers are vital to the success of the association, bringing insight and knowledge to assist SEMA staff in providing the members of its niche specialized communities with essential resources for career and business growth. In-person networking events, educational webinars, market-specific programs, online membership meetings and leadership development programs are just a few examples of successful SEMA programs introduced by select committee volunteers.

By lending just a few hours a month, volunteers gain hands-on leadership experience, develop solutions to help strengthen the automotive aftermarket and can even help create industry awareness with legislative leaders. They also build valuable business connections and friendships in the process.

Applicants must be employed by a SEMA member company and be willing to serve a two-year term. Planning skills and aftermarket knowledge are helpful, but the most important trait is a passion for giving back to the industry. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to get more involved! Learn how you make can a difference and apply here. 

By SEMA News Editors

Prema Racing to Join NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2025

Prema Racing, the junior formula racing team based in Italy, will join the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2025 with two full-time entries.

The Prema Racing INDYCAR effort will operate out of a "state-of-the-art" facility located in Indiana. The team's two full-time entries will be powered by Chevrolet's 2.2L, twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid power units.

More details, including drivers, partners and sponsors, will be released at a later date.

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

World Racing Group Adds Fire and Rescue Team to ASCS National Tour Events

World Racing Group is expanding its safety efforts to the American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) with the addition of the ASCS Fire and Rescue Team.

Like the addition of a traveling safety team for the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series at the beginning of the season, the ASCS National Tour will also have its own safety crew at every event.

The team will be led by Billy Hurt, whose crew has been with the ASCS Warrior Region for several years, according to the series.

For more information, visit ascsracing.com.

USAC Reveals Hall of Fame Class of 2024

The United States Auto Club (USAC) has revealed the USAC Hall of Fame Class of 2024.

This year's class includes photographers Gene Crucean and John Mahoney; the Hoffman family of car owners; champion drivers Rickey Hood and Levi Jones; plus, promoter Tom Marchese and mechanic and car owner Jud Phillips.

The induction ceremony will take place at USAC headquarters in Speedway, Indiana, on September 27, 2024, during the Driven2SaveLives BC39 weekend for the USAC NOS Energy Drink National Championship at The Dirt Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

For more information, including a biography of each inductee, see the full announcement.

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

By SEMA News Editors

Hotel reservations for the 2024 SEMA Show--November 5-8, Las Vegas--are now open online here. Show organizers have negotiated the lowest possible nightly rates at the best hotels in the area, only available through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

"We're seeing increased interest in the SEMA Show; rooms are filling up more quickly than last year, and some hotels have limited inventories, so we advise exhibitors and attendees to book their hotels safely and securely through onPeak today," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "Last year, Showgoers saved an average of $200 or more on their trip to SEMA at several sought-after hotels."

Booking a 2024 SEMA Show hotel through onPeak allows attendees and exhibitors to claim hotel loyalty rewards points and book their entire group online with immediate confirmation--knowing they've secured the lowest rate without needing to browse the web for hours.

Booking your hotel 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 go live on Monday, April 29. 

In addition, organizers have announced exclusive airline discounts for attendees, media members, influencers and exhibitors securing their travel plans for the 2024 SEMA Show. With these deals straight from SEMA Show partners--detailed at the bottom of this article--you can save up to 10% on your airline costs for this year's event. 

Available 2024 SEMA Show airline discounts:

Alaska Airlines

• Discount: 7% off published fares. 
• Valid Travel Dates: October 27-November 8, 2024.
• Online Reservations: visit alaskaair.com and enter discount code ECMK491 
• Phone Reservations: Contact Group Desk at 1-800-445-4435. A $15 per person ticketing fee will be applied to phone reservations. 

Delta Air Lines 

• Discount: Special fares for SEMA Showgoers.
• Online Reservations: Visit the Delta Air Lines special link here.
• Phone Reservations: Contact Delta Meeting Network at 1-800-328-1111, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. EST, and refer to Meeting Event Code NM3PY. There is no service fee for reservations booked and ticketed through the 800 number.

United Airlines 

• Discount: 2% to 10% off based on origin location. 
• Valid Travel Dates: November 2-11, 2024. 
• Online Reservations: Click on discount code ZPKE658685 or visit the special link here. 
• Phone Reservations: Please note that a service fee will be collected per ticket when booking by phone. Contact United Meetings at 1-800-426-1122 and provide them with the following information: 
  • Z Code: ZPKE.
  • Agreement Code: 91765. 

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

Fresh off the release of its inaugural EV, the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai's N performance division is expanding its lineup with the N edition of the Ioniq 6 sedan. SEMA News sources recently caught a glimpse of the first test mule of the sedan at Hyundai's test center near the Nürburgring in Germany.

While official confirmation of an Ioniq 6 N is pending, a recent report from Australia suggests that the model could hit the market in 2025, potentially offering even greater performance than the Ioniq 5 N.

According to sources, the Ioniq 6 is expected to draw inspiration from Hyundai's RN22e 'rolling lab' prototype, which showcased many of the technologies now featured in the Ioniq 5 N.

The upcoming Hyundai EV is likely to share many components with the Ioniq 5 N, according to insiders, including the same 84-kWh battery pack and upgraded front and rear electric motors. These components combine to produce 641 hp in its performance mode or 601 hp in regular driving modes. It's probable that the Ioniq 6 N will also feature the same driver-focused modes as the Ioniq 5 N, possibly including the synthetic eight-speed dual-clutch transmission function and the N Active Sound mode, which can replicate the sound of the N division's current 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder models.

By SEMA News Editors

Real Deal Revolution Announces 'Women, Wheels & Wine' Fundraiser Event, Workshops in Temecula Valley, Saturday, April 13

Automotive specialty-equipment market professionals are invited to Doffo Winery, a premier winery in Temecula Valley, California, on Saturday, April 13. The "Women, Wheels & Wine" charity event is presented by Real Deal Revolution, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit co-founded by Jessi Combs and Theresa Contreras with a goal to revolutionize the perception of skilled trades and women's roles in them, and MotoDoffo, a division of the family-owned winery.

The event will include hands-on, women-led workshops in welding, pinstriping and leatherwork, award-winning wine, local food and vendors, vineyard views, vintage motorcycles, a silent auction, prizes and presentations. The event is open to the public for the suggested donation of $10 per ticket. Workshop participation is on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration may be completed on-site, but advanced tickets at the suggested donation of $10 per person are highly recommended via Eventbrite.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will go to motorcycle skilled-trade educational programs for women, including internship and apprenticeship opportunities, scholarships and partner sponsorships through Real Deal Revolution. 

For more information, visit realdealrevolution.org.

Jason Smith Appointed President of USAC

The United States Auto Club (USAC), the Speedway, Indiana-based sanctioning body, has appointed Jason Smith as president of the organization.

The newly formed president position of USAC Racing will report to USAC CEO Kevin Miller and work alongside the executive team reporting to the USAC Board of Directors.

In his new position, Smith will oversee the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of USAC Racing, working closely with stakeholders to ensure the continued success and growth of the organization, the sanctioning body said. His vision for USAC includes enhancing the fan experience, fostering innovation in racing technology and cultivating a diverse and inclusive racing community.

For more information, visit usacracing.com.

Holley Appoints Chet Baker SVP of Sales, Expands Sales Team

Holley Performance Brands, based in Bowling Green, Kentucky, has named Chet Baker as its new senior vice president of sales as part of an overall expansion of its sales team.

In his new role, Baker will lead the company’s sales team, developing and executing strategies to drive growth across Holley’s portfolio of brands, the company said, and will work closely with Holley’s business and marketing teams to cultivate relationships with key distribution partners.

In addition to Baker’s new role, Holley Performance Brands has named four new sales leaders who will be responsible for overseeing sales for the company’s target consumer vertical groupings:

• Dan Waters has joined the organization as senior sales director for safety and racing.
• Scott McLaughlin, previously director of sales, has been promoted to the role of senior sales director for domestic muscle. In this new position, he will have sales accountability for classic truck, classic muscle and modern muscle.
• Mae Salehi recently joined Holley Performance Brands as sales director for national retailers. She will also be responsible for sales in the modern truck and off-road, and Euro and import verticals.
• Brent Morgulec joined Holley in late 2023 as sales director for the OE and export business.

For more information, visit holley.com.

Total Seal Piston Rings Achieves ISO Certification

Total Seal Piston Rings, located in Phoenix, Arizona, has conformed to the Quality Management System Standard ISO 9001:2015 for design, machining, fabrication and assembly of piston rings.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification establishes credibility and trust among consumers, clients and other business partners, according to the organization, and validates that an organization adheres to global standards of quality assurance, manufacturing and business.

"Congratulations to the team at Total Seal for their hard work and dedication in achieving this significant ISO milestone," said Matt Hartford, CEO of Total Seal. "It is a testament to their skills and commitment to quality, and it reflects the high standards upheld by the employees, managers and workers at the company. This accomplishment will surely bring about continued success and growth for Total Seal in the future."

For more information, visit totalseal.com.

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

By Ashley Reyes

The first step to achieving your goals is knowing your purpose and your "why." Once your purpose and "why" are defined, you will be able to prioritize your life to accomplish your goals, get through obstacles and live a happier life.

SEMA members are invited to attend the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) webinar "Going Beyond Potential" on April 16, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. PDT, to learn how to turn their thoughts and goals into actionable plans. Moderated by educator, author and wellness specialist Jenna Sage, and featuring speaker Jackie Martin, chief purpose and inclusion officer at FOX Factory, the session will teach attendees strategies for seeking support and creating a roadmap for success.

Martin is a certified life and executive coach who has implemented multiple workshops focused on knowing your purpose. Her expertise in individual development planning and peer accountability measures will inspire attendees to overcome their unique challenges and go beyond their potential. Register today!

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is hosting a networking mixer at the MOORE Overlanding and Off-Road Expo on April 18, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m. CT. The event will take place in Booth 225.

SBN members are invited to attend the mixer, where they grow their professional network and learn about career-building resources for women in the automotive specialty-equipment market. Attendees will meet the SBN select committee, discover ways to get involved in the industry through volunteering and forge valuable connections with influential women who can propel their careers forward. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be served.

Prospective members are invited to attend, as it's a great way to introduce yourself and learn what SBN membership has to offer. 

RSVP here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Justin Coulter, director of sales at SuperSprings International, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Coulter in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry? 

Justin Coulter: I've been an enthusiast in this industry since 2010 when I bought my first Jeep. I was hooked! Getting deeper and deeper into the sport, I dreamed of aligning my passion with my career. It took some time to break into the industry, but when I found an opportunity with SuperSprings International, I knew I had to jump on it.  

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA?  

JC: I want to be a contributor to the industry that has given so much opportunity and enjoyment to me.  

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

JC: Never settle. My father taught me from a young age not to get complacent. If you are not living your dream, do something about it. Only you can make that change for yourself.  

SN: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle?  

JC: I'd like to think my dream off-road vehicle is sitting in my garage now. My one-ton stretched Jeep TJ was a dream come true. My daily driver is a '17 Ford F-350 SRW King Ranch with a 3.5-in. Carli Suspension lift, 37-in. BFG HD-Terrains wrapped around bronze Raceline wheels.  

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the SEMA-supported "Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act" (EXPLORE Act), H.R. 6492, by a voice vote.

The comprehensive public lands bill directs the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to create more motorized opportunities on public lands, addresses special recreation permits and fees that have been expensive and cumbersome for off-road groups to navigate on federal lands, attempts to improve visitor experiences, addresses the lack of affordable housing causing staffing shortages on public lands, and transforms outdoor recreation experiences for active-duty military members, veterans and Gold Star families. 

The EXPLORE Act, which has a broad range of support from more than 30 organizations, now advances to the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee. The strongly bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR), who drafted the bill in coordination with Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ). The EXPLORE Act expands on S. 873, the "America's Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023" (AORA), and includes key, SEMA-supported provisions from the bill. The Senate ENR Committee passed S. 873 in 2023.  

"SEMA thanks Chairman Westerman and Ranking Member Grijalva for their continued advocacy for the EXPLORE Act, which was critical in getting the House to pass the bill with such strong bipartisan support," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. "The EXPLORE Act is critical to the motorized recreation community. The bill would streamline the process and expenses associated with obtaining special recreation permits, require federal land management agencies to increase opportunities for motorized and non-motorized access on public lands, and direct the BLM and Forest Service to make maps available to the public depicting where vehicles are allowed to recreate." 

The EXPLORE Act is a comprehensive legislative effort that increases access to outdoor recreation opportunities to help grow the $1.1 trillion impact of the outdoor recreation industry. You can find more information about the major provisions of the legislation by reviewing the section-by-section outline. 

For more information on the EXPLORE Act, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the SEMA-supported "Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act" (EXPLORE Act), H.R. 6492, by a voice vote.

The comprehensive public lands bill directs the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to create more motorized opportunities on public lands, addresses special recreation permits and fees that have been expensive and cumbersome for off-road groups to navigate on federal lands, attempts to improve visitor experiences, addresses the lack of affordable housing causing staffing shortages on public lands, and transforms outdoor recreation experiences for active-duty military members, veterans and Gold Star families. 

The EXPLORE Act, which has a broad range of support from more than 30 organizations, now advances to the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee. The strongly bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR), who drafted the bill in coordination with Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ). The EXPLORE Act expands on S. 873, the "America's Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023" (AORA), and includes key, SEMA-supported provisions from the bill. The Senate ENR Committee passed S. 873 in 2023.  

"SEMA thanks Chairman Westerman and Ranking Member Grijalva for their continued advocacy for the EXPLORE Act, which was critical in getting the House to pass the bill with such strong bipartisan support," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. "The EXPLORE Act is critical to the motorized recreation community. The bill would streamline the process and expenses associated with obtaining special recreation permits, require federal land management agencies to increase opportunities for motorized and non-motorized access on public lands, and direct the BLM and Forest Service to make maps available to the public depicting where vehicles are allowed to recreate." 

The EXPLORE Act is a comprehensive legislative effort that increases access to outdoor recreation opportunities to help grow the $1.1 trillion impact of the outdoor recreation industry. You can find more information about the major provisions of the legislation by reviewing the section-by-section outline. 

For more information on the EXPLORE Act, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.