By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA California Rally, hosted in Sacramento on June 5, brought together businesses within the automotive specialty-equipment industry to amplify their voices and advocate for policies conducive to industry growth and innovation. 

Participants engaged with influential California lawmakers, leveraging their collective voice to champion policies supporting industry growth. Key legislative topics included supporting cutting-edge vehicle technologies, Proposition 65, emissions compliance and a SEMA-opposed proposal mandating speed limiters in new vehicles.  

Lance Hastings, president and CEO of CMTA, speaks at the SEMA California Rally luncheon.

The specialty automotive aftermarket industry's significant contribution to California's economy was highlighted, showcasing the industry's vital role in the state's economic landscape. California is home to more than 1,500 SEMA-member companies, and the industry supports more than $40 billion in economic output and nearly 150,000 jobs.  

The rally culminated with a reception featuring several prominent lawmakers, including Senator Bob Archuleta, Assemblymember Juan Carrillo, Assemblymember Mike Fong, Assemblymember Juan Alanis, Assemblymember Diane Dixon and Senator Anthony Portantino, underscoring the event's significance and the industry's influence. 

Assemblymember Mike Fong (left) and Todd Payne of Magnussen Products (right) discuss issues of importance to SEMA-member companies.

At a luncheon during the event, Lance Hastings, president and CEO of the California Manufacturing and Technology Association (CMTA), delivered a compelling address highlighting the intersection of business interests and legislative initiatives impacting the automotive aftermarket in California. 

Christian Robinson, SEMA’s senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, emphasized the importance of member engagement in events like the SEMA California Rally. "Member participation is crucial in amplifying our collective voice and shaping policies that directly impact our industry," Robinson said. "Events like these provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, driving positive change and ensuring a vibrant future for the automotive aftermarket in California." 

For more information, reach out to Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.  

By Juan Torres 

The SEMA Show Online Media Center is now available for exhibiting companies to upload SEMA Show-related press releases. Exhibitors can post Show-related press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness among attendees and media members and possibly be included in SEMA publications and promotions. 

With thousands of media covering the SEMA Show, the Online Media Center provides exhibiting companies opportunities to spotlight their products, make pre-Show announcements and direct media to their booths in the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 5-8.  

Here are a few press release submission tips:  

• Post early. Media run preview stories with deadlines beginning in July. 
• Use a strong, short headline that will catch the media's attention.  
• Keep the press release brief. Journalists want to know what the press release is about right from the beginning.  
• Include a photo; releases with photos are more likely to be used. Submit photos in a high-resolution (300-dpi) image format.
• When you upload a press release, make sure it's tagged correctly. Many editors use the site's search function to find relevant news. 
• Always include your booth number and contact information.  

To learn more about the Online Media Center, or other PR resources, like press conferences, available to SEMA Show exhibitors, contact pr@sema.org.  

Have other Show-related questions? 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.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals will provide visitors with the chance to participate in seven seminars led by top manufacturers in the hot-rod space. The seminars--scheduled for July 12-13 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio--will highlight important information regarding the manufacturers' 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

HRIA Education Days is a part of the council's mission to ensure the prosperity and longevity of the hot-rod industry. Seminars are free to all Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals attendees and pre-registration is not required. Descriptions of each seminar can be found at www.sema.org/hria-education-days.

By SEMA News Editors

Holley Performance Brands Names Charan Mann CIO

Holley Performance Brands, the performance solutions provider based in Bowling Green, Kentucky, has named Charan Mann as its new chief information officer (CIO).

Mann will oversee the direction of the Holley Performance Brands information technology (IT) strategy. She will develop and execute a technology roadmap to elevate the online experience for Holley's retailer and distributor network, and enthusiasts.

In her most recent role at OneAmerica, Mann led IT operations across all IT disciplines. Before OneAmerica, she held various leadership positions at Zeta Interactive, Selligent and Cummins.

For more information, visit holley.com.

Lucas Oil's Corydon Facility Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Recertification

The Lucas Oil production facility and laboratory in Corydon, Indiana, has met all the standards for recertification as ISO 9001:2015-Quality Management Systems.

The audit process of an ISO 9001:2015 certification consists of a detailed and thorough evaluation of an organization's entire quality management system in two stages. The first audit stage is a document review to examine a company's quality policies, scope statement, testing and evaluation processes and procedures and record keeping. The second audit stage evaluates how the quality management system is conducted by employees to verify it matches the process outlined in the document review. This is done through employee interviews, by observing employee activities and by reviewing sample records to ensure everything matches, the company said.

"The recertification of ISO 9001:2015 reflects the world-class facilities, technologies, teams and processes that deliver products that boost power, fuel efficiency and engine longevity for customers all around the globe with our proprietary science," said Matt Conrad, general manager of Lucas Oil. "We're proud to have been manufacturing the very best oils, additives and lubricants for more than 30 years, and this certification validates the hard work being done by our entire team. This globally recognized standard exemplifies excellence exhibited by the entire organization and our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction."

For more information, visit lucasoil.com.

I-CAR Launches New Early Career Technician Program, I-CAR Academy, Plus Unveils Updated Collision Careers Website

The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) has launched I-CAR Academy, a comprehensive educational program that includes a revolutionary entry-level collision-repair curriculum for both career and technical schools and collision-repair centers. Now in its 45th year, I-CAR provides educational programming, technical information and services, and talent crisis solutions for the industry and its related value chain. I-CAR Academy is the first industry-neutral, comprehensive early career program designed specifically to attract, train, and retain technicians, and recognize the schools and repair centers training new entrants.

I-CAR Academy is designed to kickstart a technician's education journey, providing an engaging, solid foundation to launch into I-CAR Professional level (ProLevel) curriculum and Platinum Technician certification, along with OEM and supplier certified programs. For shops, additional training and best practices for effective mentoring, which is key to technician development and progression, and culture best practices for shop leaders, which aids in retention, will be available.

Available to schools for the 2024-2025 academic year, I-CAR Academy will ultimately replace the existing education edition curriculum (PDP-EE). A similar curriculum will be available to shops in August, with additional tools tailored to improve shop culture and enhance the leadership and mentorship experiences. Schools and shops interested in the I-CAR Academy program can learn more at i-car.com/academy. 

For more information, visit i-car.com.

I-CAR has launched an enhanced version of CollisionCareers.com.

The updated website now includes career path details and downloadable resources for parents, educators and school advisors, as well as a new, engaging video to better serve the collision-repair industry in attracting and retaining skilled collision-repair technicians.

The website and new video feature real, working technicians and students who demonstrate that today's professionals work in a clean, safe, cutting-edge environment, the organization said. The website also houses information outlining career paths, descriptions for different roles within the industry, a search for accredited shops and schools and career guidance tools to illustrate the importance of a career in this field. Additionally, the website connects technician candidates with schools, industry partners and potential employers.

For more information, visit collisioncareers.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Rydeen Mobile Electronics

TESLAspec.com

Rydeen Mobile Electronics has unveiled a new line of Tesla-specific vehicle accessories under the new brand, "TESLAspec.com." In addition to the product line, which includes displays, lighting, powered accessories, steering wheels, carbon-fiber parts and more, the brand has launched the TESLAspec website that is tailored to the Tesla market. It features a user-friendly menu system, comprehensive information on products and more.

TESLAspec.com.

Zumbrota Drivetrain's New Performance Axle Line

zumbrotadrivetrain.com

The new Zumbrota Performance Axle (ZPA) line of performance axles is designed with a variety of aftermarket gear ratios tailored to the customer's needs. Bigger tires, lifts and a variety of driving variables were considered including off-road, street and track style driving. ZPA offers more than 160 applications that optimize the vehicle's performance according to driver preference. And, rear axles come standard with ZPA nodular iron performance rear differential covers for years of protection, according to the company.

zumbrotadrivetrain.com.

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

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently got a glimpse of an undisguised '25 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands.

While the changes aren't drastic, there are a few notable updates, including new headlights and a front bumper with an integrated skid plate. The presence of tow hooks indicates that this is likely the Badlands trim, as it's the only model in the lineup with that feature. A revised rear bumper also features an integrated skid plate.

In addition to the exterior updates, the mid-cycle refresh also features several interior revisions, including a larger infotainment screen and a 360-degree camera system. The powertrain options are expected to remain the same, with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), along with the premium 2.0L EcoBoost.

Expect an official debut in the coming months, insiders said.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) will host an online General Membership Meeting and panel discussion on Thursday, June 27, at 10:00 a.m. PDT. Register here.

During the meeting, the ARMO Select Committee will share important updates regarding the council’s member benefits, followed by a discussion on how to address and manage online business reviews. Led by Jeff Farina of JEGS, Barry Alt of Motorhead Digital, Bryan Stone of Classic Recreations and Jeremy Dominic of SMG Speed, the discussion will cover the importance of businesses having an online presence and tips for responding to positive and negative comments. 

"In today's digital age, customers can easily access information about a business's reputation with just a few clicks," said ARMO chair Randall Bates. "During this session, we'll cover best practices for evaluating comments left online and replying in a manner that encourages positive engagement and continued success."

Discussion topics will include an overview of the various online review platforms, what kind of controls businesses have on each platform, and how to take advantage of positive reviews and respond to negative ones.

ARMO membership is open to all companies serving the automotive restoration market, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, media, restorers or car clubs. Attending the meeting is a great way for current and prospective members to connect with other like-minded professionals and stay informed on important industry issues.

Register here to attend the live session or receive the recording. 

By Ashley Reyes

Motorsports parts manufacturers can develop strong connections with media who can help promote their brand by signing up now to exhibit at the 2025 SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference.

Taking place January 21-23, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, the event will bring together manufacturers of racing and performance parts together with media for 40-plus private, 30-minute meetings over a span of three days. The program is the most efficient way for motorsports manufacturers to share detailed information about their products, changes in their company or the latest industry trends with media representatives who can promote the news to mass audiences.

Unlike traditional trade shows that focus on meeting with buyers on the show floor, Media Trade Conference meetings are held in private suites, so there are no elaborate booths or setup costs. With media in attendance representing everything from print, online, video/television, radio, podcasts and social-media content creators, the event is the best place for motorsports manufacturers to expand their audience reach and develop new partnerships.

"I really enjoy the show and getting the one-on-one time with people I don't see often or people I would have never met otherwise," said Tom Longo of Derale Performance. "Every year we find something that makes a difference for our brand."

Relocating from Los Angeles, California, to Orlando, Florida for the first time since the program's inception in 1997, the 2025 conference is anticipated to attract new manufacturers and media participants from the East Coast. Networking breaks and a reception scheduled throughout the week will give participants multiple opportunities to further their connections.  

The MPMC Media Trade Conference is open to MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) manufacturing companies whose membership is active at the time of the conference. Manufacturer registration closes Monday, September 9, with early-bird pricing closing Sunday, August 4. Media registration will open in September. Learn more at sema.org/mtc.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is accepting nominations for its 2024 Council and Network awards that honor outstanding members who have made significant contributions to their respective industry segments over the past year. Nominations are due by Monday, August 12 at sema.org/cn-awards.

Unlike the SEMA Industry Awards that honor individuals and businesses who have made significant contributions to the specialty-equipment industry at-large, council and network awards recognize members of SEMA's nine specialized market communities. Winners represent outstanding council and network members who enhanced the stature of their market segment through their contributions, outstanding business practices and positive influence on others.  

"Within the nine communities in the SEMA council and network program are members who volunteer their time and expertise to protect, promote and advance the automotive aftermarket," said Zane Clark, SEMA vice president of membership, education, research and councils. "Engaging in the nomination process is crucial as it provides an entryway for members to be honored and celebrated."

Nomination categories include:

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year.
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year.
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Vanguard Award, Professional of the Year Award.
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award, Business of the Year (Design & Engineering Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award entries will open closer to the SEMA Show).  
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC): Hall of Fame (awarded at the Performance Racing Industry Show). 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year, Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award. 
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Retailer of the Year, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award.  
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Hall of Fame. 

"It felt very gratifying to see our efforts recognized by industry peers and customers," reflected 2023 TORA Retailer of the Year Dalanna Hanson of Truck Stuff Inc. "This has instilled a deep sense of pride in our accomplishments and motivates our staff to maintain high standards knowing they are part of a top-performing team. It is also one more symbol to our loyal customers that lets them know they can trust us, which means a lot to us."

Award winners will be announced and celebrated at each council and network's 2024 SEMA Show reception. Nominate today!

By Ashley Reyes

Building your organization's employee value proposition (EVP) is an important mechanism for attracting, engaging and retaining top talent. By building an EVP, companies can clearly communicate why their business is an attractive place to work and reduce turnover rates, setting up their organization for success.

SEMA members are invited to the Future Leaders Network (FLN) Lunch & Learn webinar "Retention and Your EVP, Building Your Organization's Employee Value Proposition, A Key to Retention" on July 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. PDT, to learn strategies for building their EVP. Led by Sandy Zannino, HR and DEI consultant at Innovative Auto HR LLC (IAHR), the virtual workshop will explore EVP as it relates to the current workforce, labor shortages and generations.

During this session, attendees will learn about the collective wants and needs of Gen Z and Millennials--who make up 64% of today's talent pool--and how to engage these generations to achieve their retention goals. Participants will walk away with a road map for building their EVP and how to utilize this powerful tool in their recruiting efforts.

The first 20 members to pre-register will receive a $20 Uber Eats Voucher for use the day of the webinar.

Secure your spot here!