SEMA’s Consumer Demand Index (CDI) experienced yet another increase in April, going from 45 to 48. Representing a 7% increase, the CDI again matches closely with the Consumer Confidence Index which experienced an 11% increase from March to April. The April increase experienced by the CDI follows the ten-point increase from the month before and marks an 85% increase from April 2009. This could signal an indication that consumers are willing to purchase more products in the next few months—much needed good news for the specialty-equipment market.

Slightly more than 44% of manufacturers experienced growth in November last year, compared to the same period in 2008. Fewer distributors and retailers, however, said they experienced the same.

SEMA-commissioned forecasts from the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) feature exclusive insights on changes in vehicle technology, OEM direction/strategy, government regulatory trends and consumer mindset.

Other than powertrain components that have to coexist with vehicle on-board computers, mobile electronics components can often be the most complex specialty-equipment accessories added to a vehicle. The key to success in this market is the ability to convince enthusiasts and consumers alike that they have to have these cool products on their vehicle.

The racing and performance component of the specialty-equipment market is comprised of three market niches: street performance, racing and compact performance. Combined, these three niches represent 32% of the total retail sales of the specialty-equipment market.

In 2008, the overall market contracted to $31 billion from $38 billion in retail sales. But the racing and performance market experienced growth. In fact, total retail sales for the three niches combined grew 4%, from just under $10 billion to $10.3 billion.

Read the latest SEMA research on the market that is at the core of the specialty-equipment industry.

Consumer intentions to buy specialty-equipment products rose in September, up three points from the August reading of the SEMA Consumer Demand Index.

The SEMA Consumer Demand Index has risen for the third consecutive month and is at its highest point since early 2008, signaling great news for the specialty-equipment market.