By SEMA News Editors

Sumitomo Rubber North America Promotes Wayne Horne to Strategic Account Manager

Sumitomo Rubber North America (SRNA), the parent company of Falken Tires located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, has promoted Wayne Horne to strategic account manager.

Horne has been at SRNA for nearly eight years and held various roles throughout his tenure. Starting in customer service, Horne worked his way up to account manager, where he oversaw all direct passenger-car and light-truck business in the western region, then took on the role of sales strategist for 16 months before being promoted to strategic account manager.

For more information, visit falkentire.com.

Trans Am Names New TA2 Technical Director

The Trans Am Series has named Doug Nagy as its new technical director for the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series, replacing Ricky Brooks.

In his new role, Nagy will lead the technical inspection process, manage the class's rulebook, and serve as a liaison to TA2 teams, chassis manufacturers, vendors, and suppliers.

Nagy comes to Trans Am as an FIA-licensed technical inspector and currently serves as the technical director for the American Rally Association and the chief of tech for King of the Hammers. He previously held positions at Saleen, Bell Motorsports, and Mosler Automotive.

Brooks has served in the role since 2016 and departs the series after being named the general manager of Cordele Motor Speedway.

For more information, visit gotransam.com.

I-CAR Launches RTS Mobile App for Collision Repair Technicians

I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, is introducing a new Repairability Technical Support (RTS) app for mobile devices.

The move expands RTS's former online-exclusive presence to a more accessible platform for industry professionals and will serve as a comprehensive information hub that includes OEM partial part replacement, OEM calibration requirements, technical news and industry best practices.

Through RTS, I-CAR aims to connect with the entire collision repair industry to help close knowledge gaps, access technical best practices, provide clarifications on repair procedures, get the latest updates on emerging technologies, access OEM technical information and respond to the growing technical needs of the industry, organization representatives said.

The RTS app is now available for download on both iPhone and Android devices.

For more information, visit RTS.i-car.com.

Motion Appoints New President

Genuine Parts Company, a distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has appointed James F. Howe as president of Motion, the company's industrial business.

Most recently, Howe served as the executive vice president and chief commercial and technology officer, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the corporate trajectory of Motion. His leadership in overseeing eCommerce, strategic pricing, sales excellence, corporate accounts and human resources has been instrumental in driving the company's success, the announcement said.

In his new capacity, Howe will continue to report to Randy Breaux, Group President, GPC North America.

For more information, visit genpt.com.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is quickly approaching. The government affairs team looks forward to hosting industry advocates in Washington, D.C., on May 8-9. The Washington Rally allows SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. Click here to register for the event (registration closes on April 15). 

By attending the Washington Rally, you will have the opportunity to meet with your members of Congress and their staff, discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation will help ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 

Whether it's combating vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, or protecting motorized access to federal government lands, there are many issues facing SEMA members in the nation's capital. With the 2024 presidential election heating up and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for our members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry! 

SEMA and PRI have a limited number of rooms available at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill for $409 per night, plus tax. The deadline to receive the event rate is April 15, 2024. 

Book your room today! 

Our government affairs team will offer a virtual webinar on April 25 to prepare Washington Rally attendees to lobby their lawmakers. The webinar will highlight key issues and the finer points of meeting with members of Congress. Webinar details will be emailed to registered attendees. If you cannot attend the webinar, we will email the recording to you.

Below is a list of 2024 Washington Rally events (all times ET): 

Wednesday, May 8, 2024  

• 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. -- SEMA-PRI PAC Reception* -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace -- Penthouse level 

*A PAC contribution is required to attend in the suggested amount of $250 per individual. If you have already contributed to the SEMA and PRI PAC in 2024, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC Membership Benefits. Please contact PAC Manager Alicia Steger at alicias@sema.org if you have any questions. 

• 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. -- Washington Rally Congressional Dinner -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 

Thursday, May 9, 2024  

• 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. -- Breakfast and Welcome Briefing -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 
• 9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House & Senate Office Buildings 
• 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. -- Cars at the Capitol Event -- Southwest side of the U.S. Capitol on Maryland Avenue (across from the Botanical Garden) 
• 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. -- Congressional Luncheon -- Capitol Hill Club, Eisenhower Room 
• 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House and Senate Office Buildings 

For more information on the Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is quickly approaching. The government affairs team looks forward to hosting industry advocates in Washington, D.C., on May 8-9. The Washington Rally allows SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. Click here to register for the event (registration closes on April 15). 

By attending the Washington Rally, you will have the opportunity to meet with your members of Congress and their staff, discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation will help ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 

Whether it's combating vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, or protecting motorized access to federal government lands, there are many issues facing SEMA members in the nation's capital. With the 2024 presidential election heating up and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for our members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry! 

SEMA and PRI have a limited number of rooms available at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill for $409 per night, plus tax. The deadline to receive the event rate is April 15, 2024. 

Book your room today! 

Our government affairs team will offer a virtual webinar on April 25 to prepare Washington Rally attendees to lobby their lawmakers. The webinar will highlight key issues and the finer points of meeting with members of Congress. Webinar details will be emailed to registered attendees. If you cannot attend the webinar, we will email the recording to you.

Below is a list of 2024 Washington Rally events (all times ET): 

Wednesday, May 8, 2024  

• 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. -- SEMA-PRI PAC Reception* -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace -- Penthouse level 

*A PAC contribution is required to attend in the suggested amount of $250 per individual. If you have already contributed to the SEMA and PRI PAC in 2024, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC Membership Benefits. Please contact PAC Manager Alicia Steger at alicias@sema.org if you have any questions. 

• 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. -- Washington Rally Congressional Dinner -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 

Thursday, May 9, 2024  

• 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. -- Breakfast and Welcome Briefing -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 
• 9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House & Senate Office Buildings 
• 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. -- Cars at the Capitol Event -- Southwest side of the U.S. Capitol on Maryland Avenue (across from the Botanical Garden) 
• 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. -- Congressional Luncheon -- Capitol Hill Club, Eisenhower Room 
• 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House and Senate Office Buildings 

For more information on the Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.  

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently caught new images of the next-generation Hyundai Palisade testing in northern Sweden, and with seemingly close-to-production bodywork. The images show styling based on the Ioniq line of cars and reportedly will be offered with a hybrid powertrain option. 

While there's plenty of coverings, the front end looks as though it takes a lot from the new Kona and the Hyundai Seven concept, the latter of which previews an upcoming Ioniq electric SUV. It has a tall nose that gently curves over to the hood and large lower headlights that are likely augmented by a thin, full-width light bar.

Other notable features include blacked-out A- and C-pillars that provide a wraparound window appearance, suggesting that the roof will have a floating look like on the new Santa Fe. The back end looks more upright than the current model, according to the images, but still has vertical taillights. 

According to Korean news outlet ETNews, the SUV will be built on a new platform and will offer both a hybrid 2.5-L four-cylinder and a non-hybrid turbocharged 3.5-L V6. ETNews also reported that the new Palisade will be revealed early next year, with production coming the same year. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Kentucky legislature's Senate Bill (S.B. 215), which restricts the state from adopting California's stricter emissions standards for new vehicles, has become law without Governor Andy Beshear's signature. 

The SEMA-supported law prohibits the state from setting or enforcing regulations on emissions that align with California's plan to phase out the sale of new gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035. 

While not signing the bill, Governor Beshear allowed it to pass into law without his veto. 

"SEMA applauds Governor Beshear's decision to allow SB 215 to become law. This legislation empowers Kentuckians to make informed choices about the vehicles they use for work, transportation and recreation. Kentuckians know their needs best, and this law ensures they have the freedom to select vehicles that fit their budget and lifestyle," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. 

SEMA believes Kentuckians, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families.   

For more information, contact Kiley Chapley at kileyc@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Kentucky legislature's Senate Bill (S.B. 215), which restricts the state from adopting California's stricter emissions standards for new vehicles, has become law without Governor Andy Beshear's signature. 

The SEMA-supported law prohibits the state from setting or enforcing regulations on emissions that align with California's plan to phase out the sale of new gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035. 

While not signing the bill, Governor Beshear allowed it to pass into law without his veto. 

"SEMA applauds Governor Beshear's decision to allow SB 215 to become law. This legislation empowers Kentuckians to make informed choices about the vehicles they use for work, transportation and recreation. Kentuckians know their needs best, and this law ensures they have the freedom to select vehicles that fit their budget and lifestyle," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. 

SEMA believes Kentuckians, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families.   

For more information, contact Kiley Chapley at kileyc@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed the legislature's House Bill (H.B.) 2783 into law, which ensures consumers' choice of vehicle power plants and fuel technologies. 

The SEMA-supported law officially prohibits a state agency, city or county from restricting the sale or use of motor vehicles based on the energy source. Kansas lawmakers passed a similar, non-binding resolution during last year's legislative session, but this year's bill now makes it a law in the state.   

"SEMA thanks Kansas' lawmakers and Governor Kelly for the enactment of H.B. 2783," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "History has shown that consumer choice and innovation are the cornerstones of a thriving automotive industry, and this bill aligns perfectly with these principles. In fact, seven states have now passed these SEMA-led 'ban the ban' laws over the past two years." 

SEMA has continued to support an "all of the above" approach to vehicle technology policy, advocating that the innovators, consumers and the marketplace should decide the direction of vehicle propulsion technology and that the government should remain technology neutral. With this new law, Kansas residents will continue to decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. 

For more information, contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed the legislature's House Bill (H.B.) 2783 into law, which ensures consumers' choice of vehicle power plants and fuel technologies. 

The SEMA-supported law officially prohibits a state agency, city or county from restricting the sale or use of motor vehicles based on the energy source. Kansas lawmakers passed a similar, non-binding resolution during last year's legislative session, but this year's bill now makes it a law in the state.   

"SEMA thanks Kansas' lawmakers and Governor Kelly for the enactment of H.B. 2783," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "History has shown that consumer choice and innovation are the cornerstones of a thriving automotive industry, and this bill aligns perfectly with these principles. In fact, seven states have now passed these SEMA-led 'ban the ban' laws over the past two years." 

SEMA has continued to support an "all of the above" approach to vehicle technology policy, advocating that the innovators, consumers and the marketplace should decide the direction of vehicle propulsion technology and that the government should remain technology neutral. With this new law, Kansas residents will continue to decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. 

For more information, contact Colby Martin at SAN@sema.org. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Keri Porter, owner of Discover 4x4 Adventures, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Porter in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What do you enjoy most about working at your current company?  

Keri Porter: I really enjoy helping others experience adventure and grow in knowledge. 

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

KP: Finding time to wear all the "hats," as many small-business owners know. My husband and I work together well as a team trying to tackle all the things that need to be done. 

SN: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job?  

KP: Off-roading started as a hobby 20 years ago and became a full-time passion about seven years ago when we helped create a strong presence in the local community. 

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

KP: One: willingness to put in the work. I'm a firm believer that anything can be accomplished with determination and the willingness to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Two: willingness to learn. I love to learn new things, but I am a hands-on learner. I may make a couple [of] mistakes getting there, but I'll figure it out! Three: being flexible and a good problem solver. Very rarely does anything play out the way we expect it to. 

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

KP: My biggest challenge is myself. Like many other women, I struggle with imposter syndrome. I am a people-pleaser by nature and sometimes that causes me to lack confidence and doubt myself. My biggest accomplishment is running a successful business. We try to offer products that are affordable to everyone and still be able to make a living. 

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?  

KP: My first role model in the industry was Jessi Combs. I'm from a generation where women didn't get in the garage and pick up tools. When I saw her doing it, it made the connection for me. I then started getting out into the garage with my husband wrenching and welding together. Now, we host together events geared towards women who want to learn to wrench on their vehicles and work with tools. 

Emily Miller, professional racecar driver and creator of the Rebelle Rally, is another role model. Emily exuberates confidence, knowledge, gumption and kindness. Her event, the Rebelle Rally is a top-class production. When I participated, I learned some of my strengths and weaknesses all the while inadvertently building my confidence. 

There are so many women within the SBN that I also look up to. Last year, I met many of them while working on the SBN Bronco Build. They are the reason I joined SBN. I am looking forward to connecting more with them. 

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

KP: If you don't ask, the answer is already "no." Opportunity will present itself a great deal more if you are willing to ask the questions. 

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?  

KP: No. I grew up wanting to be a mom, but what people don't tell you is that your kids grow up and there is life after they move out. I started looking for full-time work in the industry a year before I started my business. Off-roading had become my passion, and I knew I wanted [to do] something off-road related but [I] couldn't find much available in our area. I love what I do now. I can't believe I get to call this work! 

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals? 

KP: My husband. He's always been very supportive. When I doubt myself, he does not. He contributes to our business just as much as I do. We make a great team! 

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.  

 By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Ford Motor Company, SEMA Garage has debuted SEMA Garage TechTalks, and a new measuring session featuring the Ford Mustang Dark Horse and Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally.

RSVP NOW.

The new SEMA Garage TechTalk events provide a forum where OEMs and SEMA-member aftermarket manufacturers come together to discuss future accessory opportunities, integration, trends, technology, marketing and business opportunities.

This Mustang event will combine two different vehicle teams representing the Ford Mustang Dark Horse and Ford Mustang Mach-E platforms. This combination will provide attendees with a great opportunity to learn and engage with subject-matter experts (SMEs) from battery electric to high-performance internal combustion powertrains. Each vehicle team will be accompanied by a group of vehicle representatives, including the chief program engineer, vehicle integration, marketing and branding, and engineering.

In addition, this event will feature an exclusive measuring session opportunity alongside of the vehicle SMEs, where attendees will have the opportunity to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have a close-up experience with both vehicles, which feature two different trim levels each.   

Event Details:

Date: Monday, April 8, 2024
Location: SEMA Garage Detroit
14655 Jib St. Plymouth, MI 48170

Agenda: 

• 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. EST: 

Moderated Panel Discussion.

Subject Presentation & Open Discussion.

• 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. EST:

Networking Lunch.

• 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. EST:

 Vehicle Measuring Session Opportunity.

RSVP NOW.