News and updates from SEMA's councils and committees.

Platinum Equity announced that it has acquired a majority interest in Keystone Automotive Holdings Inc., the parent company of Keystone Automotive Operations Inc. ("Keystone"). Platinum reports that it will work with the company's management team on an operational plan to improve Keystone's ability to compete in the automotive specialty-equipment market.

Companies interested in developing a GM-based project vehicle are required to submit proposals no later than Wednesday, May 11, 2011. GM's strategy for the 2011 SEMA Show focuses on passenger-car performance accessories and some pickups with full accessory programs from the accessories market. 

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is a dynamic group of professional women, now numbering close to 300, whose mission is to encourage and assist in the professional development of women working in the specialty-equipment market. The committee offers many different opportunities for women to become involved, to build friendships, network and grow their career by serving as a mentor in the SBN-powered SEMA Mentoring Program, serving on the SBN Select Committee, or by participating in SEMA’s SBN Member Resource Pool.

News and updates from SEMA's councils and committees.

The light-truck industry was particularly hard hit by the recession that began about three years ago, but at last, the tide seems to be turning. The automakers are seeing definite and consistent sales increases, and while some sectors of the truck market remain tentative, fullsize pickups and crossover vehicles are clearly on the upswing. Of the 10 top-selling vehicles in January of 2011, according to Automotive News, the Ford F-Series pickup was number one (again), the Chevrolet Silverado was number two and the Honda CR-V was number six.

News and updates from SEMA's councils and committees.

Customer service has become a key difference-maker in an interconnected world. The growth of social media means a single customer can broadcast what he or she thinks of your company, good or bad. And others can give that message an exponential pop—making or breaking your company’s image. Where customers have multiple options for parts and service, business leaders agree that building customer loyalty based on service is imperative.

As part of our annual look at where automotive technology stands, we recently engaged in a wide-ranging conversation with John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology, delving further into the four advanced vehicle technology megatrends: driving green, driving connected, driving safe and driving cool.