By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Last month, SEMA and industry leaders testified at a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hearing in opposition to the agency granting the state of California a waiver to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, which seeks to ban the sale of medium- and heavy-duty internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Watch highlights of testimony from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola; Rick Albertini, CEO of Phenix Enterprises, Inc.; and Ben Winter, vice chair of Transfer Flow, below:

If the EPA grants this waiver, California will be able to mandate the types of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that companies must purchase, in addition to requiring many businesses to retire trucks that have only been in service for 13 years. The ACF would devalue companies' property, and businesses would pay higher prices to have their products delivered, with the costs of the new zero-emission trucks that the ACF regulation mandates being passed on to consumers and other businesses. 

Learn how SEMA is fighting for a technology-neutral automotive future by visiting sema.org/advocacy.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Last month, SEMA and industry leaders testified at a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hearing in opposition to the agency granting the state of California a waiver to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, which seeks to ban the sale of medium- and heavy-duty internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Watch highlights of testimony from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola; Rick Albertini, CEO of Phenix Enterprises, Inc.; and Ben Winter, vice chair of Transfer Flow, below:

If the EPA grants this waiver, California will be able to mandate the types of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that companies must purchase, in addition to requiring many businesses to retire trucks that have only been in service for 13 years. The ACF would devalue companies' property, and businesses would pay higher prices to have their products delivered, with the costs of the new zero-emission trucks that the ACF regulation mandates being passed on to consumers and other businesses. 

Learn how SEMA is fighting for a technology-neutral automotive future by visiting sema.org/advocacy.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Last month, SEMA and industry leaders testified at a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hearing in opposition to the agency granting the state of California a waiver to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, which seeks to ban the sale of medium- and heavy-duty internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Watch highlights of testimony from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola; Rick Albertini, CEO of Phenix Enterprises, Inc.; and Ben Winter, vice chair of Transfer Flow, below:

If the EPA grants this waiver, California will be able to mandate the types of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that companies must purchase, in addition to requiring many businesses to retire trucks that have only been in service for 13 years. The ACF would devalue companies' property, and businesses would pay higher prices to have their products delivered, with the costs of the new zero-emission trucks that the ACF regulation mandates being passed on to consumers and other businesses. 

Learn how SEMA is fighting for a technology-neutral automotive future by visiting sema.org/advocacy.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The California legislature passed SEMA-supported legislation (AB 52), introduced by Assembly Member Tim Grayson (D-Concord), which would provide businesses with a state tax credit equal to what they pay in local sales tax for qualified manufacturing equipment. The bill now goes to Governor Gavin Newsom for approval or veto.

SEMA members are encouraged to register for support for the bill here.

Manufacturing is a vital industry in California, accounting for more than 10% of the state’s GDP and employing nearly 8% of the state’s workforce. The automotive aftermarket alone employs nearly 150,000 people and contributes more than $40 billion to the state’s economy. Thirty-eight states already offer sales-tax exemptions on manufacturing equipment and R&D. By failing to do the same, California risks losing businesses to these states, which can provide a more attractive business environment. In addition, providing incentives for manufacturing and R&D can help the state attract new businesses and create jobs.

The bill’s progress to date shows the importance of SEMA’s champions in statehouses nationwide. Assembly Member Grayson is a SEMA State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus member and was the 2019 winner of SEMA’s Stephen B. McDonald Legislator of the Year award. In addition to being a lawmaker, Assembly Member Grayson, along with his wife Tammy, is also an enthusiast, with two classic Ford Mustangs in their collection.

For more information, please get in touch with Christian Robinson, SEMA’s senior director for state government affairs and grassroots, at christianr@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The California legislature passed SEMA-supported legislation (AB 52), introduced by Assembly Member Tim Grayson (D-Concord), which would provide businesses with a state tax credit equal to what they pay in local sales tax for qualified manufacturing equipment. The bill now goes to Governor Gavin Newsom for approval or veto.

SEMA members are encouraged to register for support for the bill here.

Manufacturing is a vital industry in California, accounting for more than 10% of the state’s GDP and employing nearly 8% of the state’s workforce. The automotive aftermarket alone employs nearly 150,000 people and contributes more than $40 billion to the state’s economy. Thirty-eight states already offer sales-tax exemptions on manufacturing equipment and R&D. By failing to do the same, California risks losing businesses to these states, which can provide a more attractive business environment. In addition, providing incentives for manufacturing and R&D can help the state attract new businesses and create jobs.

The bill’s progress to date shows the importance of SEMA’s champions in statehouses nationwide. Assembly Member Grayson is a SEMA State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus member and was the 2019 winner of SEMA’s Stephen B. McDonald Legislator of the Year award. In addition to being a lawmaker, Assembly Member Grayson, along with his wife Tammy, is also an enthusiast, with two classic Ford Mustangs in their collection.

For more information, please get in touch with Christian Robinson, SEMA’s senior director for state government affairs and grassroots, at christianr@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is hosting an online General Membership Meeting on Tuesday, September 24, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT.

Open to all women employed by a SEMA member company, the meeting will provide updates on SBN's current priorities for members, which include networking, education and recognition opportunities. Attendees will connect with the select committee, discover ways to get more involved, and hear the network's plans for its members at the 2024 SEMA Show.

The SBN's mission is to provide opportunities for professional women in the specialty-equipment industry which will enhance their careers and positively impact the growth of the automotive aftermarket. Both current and prospective members are encouraged to attend the meeting, as it's a great way to tap into valuable resources.

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

Third-Generation Audi Q5 Sportback Shows Off New Look

The third generation of the Audi Q5 will introduce significant design changes compared to the second-generation model, according to new images provided by SEMA News sources. While the overall proportions remain similar, the redesigned SUV features a more striking front and rear design. This applies to the Q5 Sportback as well, which was recently spotted in Germany for the first time.

The new Audi Q5 lineup will feature a shorter octagonal Singleframe grille, slimmer and more technical-looking headlights, a taller, lower air intake and side-air inlets. At the rear, the SUV is expected to have a more distinctive appearance with sleeker rear combination lamps that incorporate Audi's second-generation digital OLED technology, along with a full-width narrow LED light band.

The prototype of the next-generation Q5 Sportback, even through its swirly camouflage, reveals the Singleframe grille and vertical air intakes. Audi is testing the Sportback with its final exterior design, which includes production-ready headlights and taillights. The Sportback will also feature unique bumpers and wheels to differentiate it from the standard Q5.

Inside, Audi is aiming for a more streamlined design that reduces the number of physical controls. The front of the cabin is expected to include three screens: an 11.9-in. OLED Audi virtual cockpit, a 14.5-in. OLED MMI touch display and an optional 10.9-in. MMI passenger touch display. Additionally, sources said a new head-up display (HUD) is likely to be included.

Hyundai Ioniq 9 Spotted Fully Camouflaged

Insiders recently managed to snap new photos of Hyundai's upcoming all-electric seven-seat SUV, expected to be named the Ioniq 9.

The new flagship EV is set to carry over much of the design language from the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, while its technical specs are likely to be similar to those of the Kia EV9, sources said.

While Hyundai hasn't announced an exact date for the Ioniq 9's reveal, rumors suggest that the global debut could take place in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The upcoming electric SUV appears to feature a blunt front end, complete with vertical running lights integrated into the bumper and horizontal headlights above, which insiders expect to feature the pixel-style LED design.

The side profile of the Ioniq 9 features a steeply raked windshield and a roofline that slopes gently toward the rear. This sleeker design cues more from the Ioniq 6 sedan and could enhance aerodynamics and range, though it may compromise headroom for passengers in the third row.

Inside, the Ioniq 9 borrows heavily from the all-new Santa Fe's dashboard layout, sources said. It boasts a digital instrument cluster that flows into the infotainment display. The HVAC and infotainment system controls offer a blend of physical knobs and touch-sensitive buttons.

By SEMA News Editors

Attendees can make history at the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas, which will once again offer an attendee experience like no other trade event on the planet, with thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, the latest vehicle trends and dozens of education sessions led by top industry professionals. In addition, countless new products, emerging trends and innovative technology will be available to attendees on the Show floor (view the 2024 SEMA Show floorplan here), like these from SEMA Show exhibitors that highlight some of the best of the specialty-equipment market. (Still need to register for SEMA? Do so here for only $60 through Friday, September 27).

The SEMA Show serves as a mecca for the automotive aftermarket industry; bringing together leading innovation, world-class builds, and a shared passion for all things surrounding car and truck culture. Preview some of those innovations in this SEMA News exclusive.

To stay at the forefront of the automotive industry, you want to take advantage of the unique opportunity to see these innovations--in person on the SEMA Show floor--but you can also get a SEMA News exclusive sneak peek here and add these brands and booths to your SEMA Show planner:

AI-Powered Reporting Solution for Body Shops, Service Providers

1Source ADAS, one of the leading providers of innovative solutions for the collision-repair industry, shared it will be giving demos of its groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI)-powered ADAS calibration platform at the 2024 SEMA Show. The new platform is designed to leverage AI to streamline the calibration process, reduce errors and improve efficiency.

"ADAS technology is becoming increasingly complex, and accurate calibration solutions are essential for ensuring vehicle safety and functionality," said Tommy Ames, CEO of 1Source ADAS. "Our new platform... simplifies capturing the calibrations required for a specific repair, making it faster and easier for shops to obtain accurate, repair-specific ADAS service info and deliver high-quality repairs."

The 1Source ADAS platform offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to streamline the calibration workflow, including automated calibration identification, OEM-compliant procedures, and cloud-based reporting.

"We're confident that our new platform will revolutionize how shops approach ADAS calibration," said Kirk Carlisle, 1Source ADAS product manager. "By leveraging AI, we're able to deliver a solution to shops seeking ways to get the data needed to repair the vehicle correctly without spending hours looking for what they need to do it."

1Source ADAS will showcase its new AI-powered calibration reporting platform at Booth #36241 in the Collision Repair & Refinish section in the Upper South Hall. Visit its booth for a live demonstration and to learn more about how their platform can help transform your ADAS workflow.

Fuel2Electric: The 'Most Ambitious Vehicle Upcycling Project of All Time'

In a switch-up within the industry, Fuel2Electric (F2E) emerges as one of the most ambitious vehicle upcycling projects ever. Spearheaded by a visionary trio, they are redefining the EV space, filling the bland expanse of factory EVs with vintage automobiles baptized in electricity. For those embarking on the internal combustion engine (ICE) conversion journey, F2E offers a streamlined experience from concept to completion.

Fuel2Electric, which will exhibit at the 2024 SEMA Show, offers a directory with more than 70 vendors and auto shops specializing in EV conversion projects.

With more than 70 specialized vendors and auto shops in its directory, it's a veritable gold mine for anyone seeking conversion expertise. In addition, the F2E hub also doubles as a marketplace for necessary parts and a staging ground for projects waiting to be brought to life.

"Fuel2Electric was established to make EV conversions accessible to all automotive enthusiasts. We are thrilled to collaborate with precursors like EV West, TREMEC Electric GT, and top-notch converters like Moment Motors, Flashdrive and 70 others! Our platform will empower customers to confidently embark on their electrification journey, knowing they have access to top-tier products and services," said Laurent Frugier, co-founder of F2E.

Fuel2Electric isn't just about keeping cars out of museums or dusty garages; it's about setting them free on the highways, with the wind in their grilles and vigorous electric blood flowing through their veins under the hood. It's about the future—one where we don't discard the past, but infuse it with new, high-end technology instead. Visit the F2E Booth #24821 to learn more!

Viral Seat Cover Sensation Expands to Automotive Accessories B2B Marketplace

Seat Cover Solutions, Inc., an emerging leading manufacturer of luxury seat covers and other vehicle interior accessories will exhibit at the SEMA Show for the first time. Launched exclusively online, the Seat Cover Solutions line quickly became a viral sensation, amassing tens of millions of views across social-media platforms. Within just one year, Seat Cover Solutions emerged as the most searched and discovered seat cover brand on the internet, according to the company, and they are using that momentum to resonate with a broader audience and make a significant impact in the automotive accessories market.

Seat Cover Solutions' viral success brings them to the SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas, for the first time ever in 2024.

"Our viral success and substantial growth have positioned us perfectly to enter the B2B market," said Grant Pawlak, CEO and co-founder, Seat Cover Solutions. "We're excited to bring our unique, high-quality, easy-to-install seat covers to businesses and showcase our brand at SEMA."

You can see these viral sensations in person in Booth #11974 in North Hall's First Time & Featured Exhibitors section.

Let's be honest, all of the brands on the 2024 SEMA Show floor are essential stops for any attendee, buyer, professional or enthusiast serious about staying informed and competitive in the automotive industry. These booths at SEMA, November 5-8, offer unparalleled access to the latest products, technologies and talent, making them key highlights of the SEMA Show. We'll see you there!

Still need a badge? Attendee, buyer, and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open at semashow.com/register. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

By SEMA News Editors

Time is running out to submit nominations for SEMA's "Visionary 8" recognizing the future leaders of the automotive aftermarket industry. Nominations can be submitted until Friday, August 30, at this link.

SEMA has recognized the rising stars of the industry since 2012 through the "35 Under 35" program. "Visionary 8" will build upon that success by spotlighting eight recipients on track to become leaders in the industry. The recognition is one of the association's most coveted accolades, honoring the up-and-coming talent on track to drive innovation in the automotive aftermarket for future generations.

"'Visionary 8' will maintain the '35 Under 35' legacy while enhancing the quality of representation that is given to our industry's rising stars," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "The list is now more competitive than ever, and the selection process will be even more rigorous."

Nominees must be SEMA members, should have active industry involvement, and demonstrate the talent, innovation, integrity, success and leadership that is needed to become a future driver of the industry. The age criteria remains 35, and under.

"Visionary 8" recipients will serve as subjects of in-depth feature articles in an upcoming issue of SEMA magazine.

SEMA is currently accepting nominations for its inaugural "'Visionary 8'" honorees through August 30.

To submit a nomination or for more information, view the nomination form.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Annette Bauer, owner and CEO of Annette Bauer Creative LLC., as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

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

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there? 

Annette Bauer: I've been dabbling in my business since 2013, but finally made a commitment to focus on this passion in 2021. I absolutely love what I do. As an owner and one-woman show, it surely gets busy at times, but truthfully, I thrive in my craft. As a motorsports enthusiast, working with people in the automotive industry is my passion. 

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

AB: In the racing industry, owners and teams want to use every dollar to improve their program. That sounds all-encompassing, but it really isn't. Owners and teams often choose modifications to their vehicle (i.e., performance-based mods, aftermarket additions, etc.) over photography or marketing. 

As a racer and crew member, I completely understand this mentality. However, as a marketing professional, I know having quality imagery of your vehicle, team and driver are necessary assets and bring immense value when attracting sponsors. 

We'd all like to race on someone else's dime, right? I mean, do what you love and help support a business you align with. That is the ultimate goal for many. 

SN: What was your first industry job?  

AB: I was born into the industry. My father was a gearhead, and from a very young age, I was taught to wrench on cars and respect horsepower. So, without aging myself, we'll just say I've been here awhile! 

My first job was working with my dad at a gas station he managed. At the tender age of 13, I was helping to do little stuff around the shop. You know, sweep, clean windows, retrieve parts, etc. I didn't care what it was, as long as I got to learn and help my dad. 

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

AB: As I have gotten older, my ideals have, of course, changed. My experiences have altered the value of various qualities, but I'd have to say the three that have stuck with me are: 

1. Be true to myself.

2. Be good to your word.

3. Stay determined.

In my business, I have seen a lot of people change to accommodate their clients, to become what they thought the client wanted to earn or retain the business. I am who I am because of my experiences. I am not for everyone and that is okay. There are billions of people in the world, I am bound to rub on--or several--the wrong way. 

We used to be able to shake on an agreement and that was good enough, but in today's society, you need contracts for everything (it seems). I value being good to my word; if I say I will do something, I'm good for it. It may not be a simple handshake anymore, but the importance of this quality still remains that simple. 

Last but definitely not least, staying determined or hungry. There is always someone out there doing it differently. That's a fact. The question is--in my business--no one else is going to show up and do it for me. I spent a great deal of time building other people's empires, thinking I wasn't good enough. I am good enough; I just wasn't determined enough then. That is not who I am now. 

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

AB: As both a racer, crew and businesswoman in the industry, I've heard and seen it all. Some guys want to dismiss your experience or knowledge based on the fact that you have female anatomy. I don't necessarily believe that is sexist, I simply think those men lack experience with a female who knows her way around the industry (well at least most). If men based knowledge on anatomy, I hate to be the whistleblower, but I know men with the so-called "knowledgeable anatomy" that know way less than me, and I learn every day in this industry. 

I've been involved in racing for more than 20 years and the best example that comes to mind was as a driver. I had driven a short-wheelbase car for roughly two years and after one of my passes (drag racing), I advised the owner of a problem in the transmission. He retorted, "that's not the problem, you don't know. You don't have the experience."

I tried explaining why I felt there was an issue with the transmission with the same response, so I let it go (not my car). The car sat in the trailer over the off-season without the owner so much as pulling it out to check anything. He put a new driver in the seat at the start of the new season (mutual decision) and upon that new driver doing the very first burnout of the season, broke the transmission. There was no need for comment, I simply said, "get it fixed and get back out there."

The point of my story is that just because I am a woman does not mean I do not know. 

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

AB: I am a huge Stevie Fast Jackson fan. The man is incredibly knowledgeable and has a magnetic personality. I had the opportunity to meet him in Ferris, Texas, at Xtreme Raceway Park in 2020. To have a tenth of his knowledge would be a game-changer! 

As far as the person who has helped me the most, I'd say my husband. He has taught me a lot, shows patience (when I probably don't deserve it) and supports me in every facet of my passion. He is very knowledgeable and I'm literally just trying to figure out how to absorb that information through osmosis or mind transfer (while we sleep). It's a work in progress. 

I am of course a big fan of women in general in the automotive/motorsports industry. We have a place here and I support all women who want to get involved. 

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

AB: Best career advice was "do what scares you most, first." It sounds easy, but in truth, it's actually very hard. We are programmed to do what is safe. Get a degree, get a 9-5 job, work to live, etc. All those things are great and yes, they are perfect for most people. Just not me. I don't want to work to live, I want to enjoy this amazing and short life and share my passion with the industry that I am so incredibly passionate about. So that means I need to do what scares me most, first. It doesn't mean be careless or reckless. It just means have faith in what you keep coming back to--it's there for a reason. 

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

AB: Yes! Although I didn't as a profession, I have always been involved in the automotive/motorsports industry since I was young. My unyielding passion is what keeps me here. I love the people, the experiences, the hard work, the thrash, the wins and losses; you name it, I'm all in.  

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

AB: My husband. With him having faith in me and giving me the confidence that I am good enough, I can make a living doing what I love! He truly has been my rock and my number-one fan. 

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.