By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI members traveled to Washington, DC, to advocate for the interests of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries as part of the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally. Members and industry leaders held nearly 150 meetings with their elected officials and congressional staff, advocating for their lawmakers to support legislation to protect the future of the industry. The Washington Rally kicked off with a congressional dinner where TV presenter and car builder Ant Anstead hosted an engaging panel discussion with industry champions from the U.S. Representatives, including Reps. Marie Glusenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV), and included a lunch at the exclusive Capitol Hill Club with U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. 

The event also featured the "Cars at the Capitol" event, which showcased a curated offering of customized cars, trucks and SUVs that exemplify the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that drives the specialty automotive aftermarket. The car show put our industry on display just beyond the steps of the Capitol with a vehicle lineup that included everything from classic cars, including a '67 Chevrolet Chevelle and a '69 Ford Mustang Mach 1, to late-model vehicles such as a '15 Nissan GT-R, a '22 Gladiator 4xe and a Toyota Tundra. 

From left to right: Auto industry personality Ant Anstead and U.S. Representatives Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV).

Congressional meetings provided SEMA and PRI members with an opportunity to advocate for protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, stopping vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting motorized access to federal government lands, making permanent business tax incentives for race tracks and extending business tax incentives that will be expiring or be reduced in 2025. This year's Washington Rally marked the 17th time that SEMA and industry members have traveled to our nation's capital to advocate for the industry. The event plays a pivotal role in SEMA and PRI's advocacy efforts at the federal level, providing our members with an opportunity to develop and strengthen relationships with key members of Congress.

SEMA and PRI encourage those who weren't able to attend the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally--which included the "Cars at the Capitol" event seen here--to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry.

SEMA and PRI welcome our members who weren't able to attend the Rally to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry. We also encourage you to host your members of Congress at your business. Our government affairs team makes this easy by coordinating the logistics and participating in lawmaker visits to member companies. Click here to sign up to host your members of Congress.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Kris Kinsinger, wholesale account manager at Diode Dynamics--a manufacturer of automotive LED lighting products--as the network's newest spotlight member.  

Get to know Kinsinger in his interview with SEMA News below. 

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

Kris Kinsinger: Time is your most valuable resource and you can't get it back. Make sure to use it wisely. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

KK: A passion for all things automotive. The aftermarket side of things is cool to be part of because each enthusiast has their own touch that makes their vehicle unique to them. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

KK: You can find me camping with my family, out on the trails off-roading, spending time at the lake, riding my motorcycle or sitting around a campfire. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

KK: Go in with a knowledge of what is being discussed. Keep an open mind. Be a good listener. 

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

KK: Jay Leno. I've always been a big fan of "Jay Leno's Garage" and would love to see his car and motorcycle collection in person. 

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 Editors

INDYCAR Sets Date for Hybrid Debut

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES has confirmed the launch of its new hybrid power unit for later this year.

Developed by INDYCAR, Chevrolet and Honda, the hybrid unit will pair with the 2.2L, twin-turbocharged V6 engine used by the series and make its competitive debut at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course during the Honda Indy 200, July 5-7.

The hybrid system is made up of the low-voltage (48V) Motor Generator Unit (MGU) and Energy Storage System (ESS)--consisting of 20 ultracapacitors--both of which fit inside the bellhousing, located between the engine and gearbox. During regeneration, acting on the clutch shaft, the MGU builds power to be stored in the ESS. The additional horsepower is deployed through the same motor generator on driver demand.

In competition, options for automatic regeneration via braking or throttle position and manual regeneration via selected steering wheel paddles and buttons will be available. Deployment of stored energy will only be available manually through a latching button, similar to the existing Push to Pass system, according to INDYCAR.

While available to use in addition to the traditional Push-to-Pass system on road and street circuits, the two systems will come with different rules. Push-to-Pass will still have a restriction on the amount of time per use and total time used throughout a race. Rules for the hybrid power unit will limit the amount of energy deployed per lap and will be based on track length. Used in combination on road and street circuits, the added boost will provide an additional 120 hp for a total of 800-plus hp. Additional horsepower is expected in the coming years as hybrid unit development continues, the series said.

A full-field test of INDYCAR's power unit is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11, at the Milwaukee Mile to allow teams to finalize implementation ahead of the July debut.

For more information, visit indycar.com. 

NASCAR to Launch In-Season Tournament on TNT Sports in 2025; Prime Video to Feature Seeding Races

NASCAR has announced it will hold a first-of-its-kind in-season tournament for the NASCAR Cup Series in 2025. The seeding for the bracket-style, head-to-head event across TNT Sports' full five-race schedule will be set by results from the final three races that will air on Prime Video.

"The idea of an in-season tournament has been discussed within the NASCAR industry and as we started to focus on adding promotional elements that drive interest throughout the season, we were excited by the opportunity to leverage the marketing weight of Amazon and TNT Sports to bring this concept to life," said Brian Herbst, NASCAR SVP, Media and Productions. 

All drivers are eligible for the seeding races, which will take place during the final three races of Prime Video's coverage of the NASCAR Cup Series. The top 32 drivers based on the seeding events will become eligible for the in-season tournament competition. Bracket seeding will be established by the best finish in each race over the three races, with the tiebreakers determined by the next-best finish, followed by season points position.

The tournament kicks off with the first event in the TNT Sports portion of the NASCAR Cup Series season. Drivers will compete head-to-head with the higher finishing driver of each race advancing over five rounds. The winner of the tournament will receive a $1 million prize.

For the complete details, visit the NASCAR announcement here or visit nascar.com.

Acura Integra Type S Competes in One Lap of America

Two Acura engineers recently competed in the 2024 Tire Rack One Lap of America behind the wheel of the Acura Integra Type S, the first time the high-performance model has participated in the eight-day cross-country road rally that covers 3,500 miles and includes timed events on nine racetracks across the Midwest.

The Acura entry was driven by Justyn Bobinski, a brake and vehicle dynamics test engineer at the Honda North American Automotive Development Center, and Nick Amato, who performs brake verification testing at Honda's Marysville Auto Plant.

The Acura race team is part of the Honda of America Racing Team (HART), which consists of Honda associates across North America. The HART program provides associates with motorsports experience, while also transferring vehicle performance learnings into the development and manufacturing of next-generation Honda and Acura products. The HART One Lap of America team is supporting the Victory Center, an Ohio-based organization that provides programs and services to cancer patients, survivors and their families.

Bobinski and Amato used One Lap of America to further test the performance, handling, and durability of the Acura Integra Type S under extreme conditions. The Type S variant featured a turbocharged 320hp 2.0L engine, a six-speed manual transmission, a dual-axis front suspension design and four-piston Brembo front brakes. For the competition, the only modifications from stock were a racing seat and roll cage for safety, CarboTech brake pads, Red Line Oil, and a custom "careers.honda.com" livery.

Additionally, Acura engineers Tyler Chambers and Chad Gilsinger piloted the 600hp "one-and-a-half" Acura NSX Type S in the event, towing the rear half of another NSX custom fabricated into a trailer, which carried spare tires, tools and fluids. 

For more information, visit acura.com.

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

By SEMA News Editors

American Adventure Lab

Jeep JL Stainless Steel VersaTable

American Adventure Lab has introduced a new stainless-steel Jeep JL VersaTable. Also available in poplar and bamboo, the tailgate table features an LED light with push-button switch, no cable supports, a M.O.L.L.E. back plate with M.A.S.S. connector holes, a quick-latch for one-handed opening and closing, all-aluminum construction and more.

americanadventurelab.com.

BluePrint Engines

Gen III HEMI-Compatible Performance Crate Engines

BluePrint Engines' new comprehensive range of Gen III HEMI-compatible 426ci performance crate engines offer various options, from long-block configurations to fully assembled engines complete with ECUs, wiring harnesses and front drive accessories. Customers can also choose between naturally aspirated or supercharged. BluePrint Engines Gen III HEMI-compatible crate engines are designed to deliver 610 to 872 hp guaranteed power levels as dyno-tested in BluePrint's state-of-the-art facility in Kearney, Nebraska.

The Gen III's versatility and power make it ideal for older Mopar cars, trucks, or Jeeps, breathing new life into classic vehicles.

blueprintengines.com.

RIGID Industries

9-in. Light and RBGW Backlight Options for 360-Series Lineup

RIGID Industries has announced new additions to its 360-series round LED lighting lineup. One of the company's most popular offerings, the 360-Series, previously consisted of 4-in. and 6-in. circular LED pods. The updated product line adds a new 9-in. light with an RBGW backlighting option for those looking to customize the look of their vehicles. RBGW backlighting also expands to the smaller 4-in. and 6-in. models.

Featuring 32 individual LEDs, the 9-in. light nearly triples the LED count of the 6-in. model and produces up to 23,232 lumens. Each pod features an IP68-compliant dust and water ingress rating, a high-impact polycarbonate lens (available in clear or Amber Pro), and a pressure-equalizing vent to ensure durability and long-lasting clarity. Customers can choose between drive (PN 36421) or spot (PN 36522) optics to select the beam pattern that best fits their needs.

rigidindustries.com.

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

By SEMA News Editors

Ford Names Lawler Vice Chair, House Joins as Finance VP

Ford has named John Lawler, Ford CFO since October 2020, as its new vice chair, while initially continuing as CFO until early 2025.

Additionally, Sherry House, who most recently was CFO at electric vehicle maker Lucid Motors, is joining Ford as vice president, finance, as part of a plan to succeed Lawler as CFO in early 2025. In the meantime, she will oversee financial planning and analysis as well as the finance organizations for the company’s automotive businesses: Ford Blue, Ford Pro and Ford Model e.

Both assignments are effective in early June.

As vice chair, Lawler will focus on Ford’s strategic development, all current and future global partnerships, and engagement with global leaders, including in China, Southeast Asia and Europe, to advance industry-critical policy, the company said.

For more information, visit ford.com.

TechForce Foundation, SkillsUSA Announce Strategic Collaboration

TechForce Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to guiding students to careers as professional technicians, and SkillsUSA, an education and industry partnership program, have announced a new strategic collaboration.

Through the partnership, SkillsUSA will introduce TechForce Foundation’s career-building resources to its members, encouraging them to access the TechForce online career hub that helps students connect with year-round scholarships, events, apprenticeships and jobs. Additionally, TechForce will educate its network of students and instructors about SkillsUSA membership, which offers opportunities for student leadership, professional development, enhanced curriculum, industry networking, and partnerships and real-world experiences that reinforce lessons learned in the classroom.

"This non-profit-to-non-profit collaboration showcases what can happen when two organizations work together for a common purpose," said TechForce Foundation CEO Jennifer Maher. "Both organizations are committed to the outcome of a skilled, passionate workforce, so ensuring our communications channels cross-pollinate ensures our students, and industry, win. With TechForce having over $4 million in scholarships to award this year alone, and SkillsUSA being active in nearly 5,000 schools and over 21,000 classrooms nationwide, it’s a natural alliance that supercharges results for the next generation of skilled technicians." 

For more information, visit techforce.org or skillsusa.org.         

Cosmo Tires Hosts Annual Car and Truck Show at TGI Headquarters

Cosmo Tires, a private-label brand distributed by Tire Group International, hosted its 2nd annual Kool Kat Ambush car and truck show at its facility in Miami, Florida.

The event featured a variety of cars and trucks, including a '68 Shelby GT350 and a one-off custom '63 Lincoln Continental, a Ferrari LaFerrari, and a Porsche Carrera GT. More than 25 trophies and awards were given out to participants for various accomplishments, such as best in show, best sound systems, best exhaust and more. 

The company reported an attendance of more than 2,000.

"As we continue to grow, we never want to lose sight of our family-owned culture," said Tony Gonzalez, CEO. "Our clients and distributors are a key part of that growing family which is why it’s important to set some time aside each year to get together like we do at our annual Kool Kat Ambush car and truck show.”

For more information, visit cosmotires.com. 

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

By SEMA News Editors

The BMW iX is getting a refresh, and SEMA News sources recently caught new images that hint at some of the planned updates. 

In the new images, the iX sports the usual BMW camouflage, on both the front and rear, indicating changes to the bumpers, light clusters and grille.

According to insiders, the front bumper will have a more aggressive and pronounced shape, in addition to increased exterior personalization options, like new body colors and more wheel-rim designs. The M Sport package is also expected to be part of the standard equipment.

Sources also indicated that the updated iX will feature more powerful and efficient electric motors. With the goal of improving performance without compromising range, the iX will drive more than 375 miles on a single charge and will be available as a high-performance trim.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Education has launched a new virtual education series that addresses the state and opportunities of the electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) industry. Titled "Powering Tomorrow: Unveiling the Future of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure, Presented by SkillFusion," the three-part curriculum will feature three individual sessions on June 25, July 9 and July 16. 

As the number of electric vehicles on the roads grows, charger reliability and uptime will play a significant role in owner experience, increasing the need for certified labor to maintain and repair this technology. This webinar series will feature industry experts and executives from SkillFusion, an organization dedicated to solving EV Charger Infrastructure downtime, presenting attendees with a holistic understanding of the EVSE infrastructure and workforce opportunities available.

"The industry is grappling with the unreliability of charger availability due to excessive downtime for maintenance--an issue that is becoming increasingly more important as the federal government instills a mandated 97% uptime requirement for the equipment," said Rue Phillips, SkillFusion Co-founder and President. "By the conclusion of this series, students will have acquired a comprehensive set of transferrable skills, enhancing their understanding and capabilities across the EVSE industry domain."  

Sessions include: 

The State of the EVSE Industry - June 25 at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) 

Presenters: Rue Phillips, SkillFusion Co-founder and President, and Mark LaNeve, Chairman - Franchise Equity Partners (FEP)

In this session, participants will delve into a comprehensive exploration of the state of the EVSE industry, gaining valuable insights into its current landscape. Attendees will develop a foundational comprehension of industry trends, challenges and opportunities, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of electric vehicle service equipment. Register here. 

EVSE Workforce and Career Opportunities and Available Resources - July 9 at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) 

Presenters: Elaina Farnsworth, SkillFusion Co-founder and CEO, and Enid Joffe, SkillFusion Electrification Specialist 

In this session, attendees will gain insights into the diverse career paths within the electric-vehicle service-equipment (EVSE) industry. Attendees will receive valuable resources, educational pathways and skill development opportunities, empowering them to navigate and excel in the dynamic EVSE workforce landscape. Register here. 

EVSE Infrastructure - July 16 at 10:00 a.m. (PDT)

Presenters: Dave Packard, SkillFusion Chief Strategy Officer, and Enid Joffe, SkillFusion Electrification Specialist 

In this session, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of EVSE infrastructure, covering hardware, software and the intricacies of installation, operation and maintenance. Topics will provide participants with a holistic view of the infrastructure that supports electric vehicle charging. Register here. 

This is your chance to stay ahead of the curve of the EVSE industry and engage directly with experts of this technology. Register for sessions now to secure your spot.  

By SEMA News Editors

Ryan Stutzman is joining SEMA as its new chief financial officer (CFO), effective May 22. Stutzman will be based at SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. 

Stutzman replaces current Vice President and Chief Financial Officer George Afremow, who will retire in June after 12 years with the association.

Stutzman is a strategic and results-driven executive with over a decade of experience leading financial teams and enhancing company performance in both public and private sectors. His expertise spans a wide range of financial operations, including mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems integration, which he has managed across various industries.

"In our search for a new CFO, we sought a leader not only with robust financial acumen but one with strong integrity, who is committed to protecting and furthering the cause of the automotive aftermarket industry," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "We are delighted to have found a great fit in Ryan."

In his new role, Stutzman will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day finance, investment relations and accounting activities for the association, including PRI. Stutzman will also play a pivotal role in the selection and implementation of company-wide systems, which will enhance SEMA's business relationship with its members.

Stutzman joins SEMA from Cherokee Chemical Co., Inc., where he significantly enhanced the company's financial performance and market position. He led the successful reorganization of the finance department and managed over a dozen strategic mergers and acquisitions, driving substantial growth and profitability. His initiatives in optimizing financial frameworks contributed decisively to Cherokee's industry leadership.

"I'm excited to join the association at such an important time for the automotive aftermarket," said Stutzman. "SEMA members are on the forefront of change and driving innovation, and I'm looking forward to supporting them as we shape the future of the industry."

A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Stutzman received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Cedarville University and an MBA from Azusa Pacific University. Outside of work, Stutzman is passionately engaged with the great outdoors, frequently found road cycling, hiking or snowboarding. A dedicated coffee connoisseur, he has spent the past decade mastering the art of roasting and blending his own coffee, a testament to his meticulous attention to detail. Stutzman and his wife, Bethany, have two children.

By SEMA News Editors

Hotel reservations are open online here for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, with the best value rates now available through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. Booking through the SEMA block guarantees Showgoers the lowest rates in Las Vegas during the SEMA Show. 

And, onPeak also offers reduced resort fees at more than 40 properties, detailed below. Take advantage of these rates and book your rooms today!

Registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open online here for qualified attendees. SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all, so registration fees are only $40 through Friday, June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) has announced the winners of its 2024 ARMO Hot Products Showcase Best New Product Awards.  

More than 80 products from 30 ARMO member companies were displayed in the ARMO Hot Products Showcase at the Spring Carlisle Show in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, in April. The showcase enabled manufacturers to highlight their best and newest innovations in a dedicated, high-traffic area of the event for free.

The following products were voted on by Carlisle attendees as best new products in their respective categories:

Categories (2): People's Choice and Engine 

Company: BluePrint Engines

Product Name: PS426CTF

Category: Interior

Company: Distinctive Industries

Product Name: Custom CTX Buddy Bench Seat Vertical Inserts with Cupholders

Category: Exterior

Company: Precision Replacement Parts

Product Name: '73-'87 (91) GM Truck Complete Vent Assembly

Category: Accessory Item

Company: Retro Manufacturing

Product Name: SUB1800

Category: Drivetrain/Brakes/Suspension

Company: Flaming River Industries

Product Name: C1500 Rack Cradle Kit

"Each of these manufacturers has created a cutting-edge product that not only exemplifies innovation but excites consumers in the automotive restoration industry," said ARMO Council Director Marcy Yanus. "We're thrilled to award this year's winners for their commitment to manufacturing compelling products." 

The winners will be recognized at the 2024 SEMA Show ARMO Reception. To learn more about the ARMO Hot Products Showcase, visit sema.org/armo-hot-products-showcase.