DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.15.23) – SEMA members who would like to stay informed on emerging engine technology can watch three new videos by the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) that will delve into electric vehicle (EV) technology, alternative fuels and the changing landscape of the automotive aftermarket.  

The first video, set to be released on August 30, features a conversation on “Electric Vehicles and The Changing Landscape of the Automotive Aftermarket” by Bob Morreale of The Tuning School and Karen Salvaggio of Scorpion EV. The discussion will help industry members understand how OEMs are moving forward with electrification via hybrids or battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and how this has sparked an entirely new industry of electric aftermarket vehicles and products.   

Viewers will gain insight into current and anticipated legislation adoption that will develop over the next 10 years, as well as the pros and cons of EVs and aftermarket opportunities.

With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposing new federal emissions standards intended to dramatically increase sales of EVs, ETTN’s video “How Companies Are Navigating Regulation and Pivoting to Hybrid and EV” on September 13 will effectively dive into the various fuel innovation technologies that are often ignored on the road to zero emissions. Viewers will gain a better understanding of BEVs, biofuels and hydrogen technologies and the regulations, opportunities and challenges that come with each. This insightful video is led by Rob Simons of Automotive Consulting Services, and Tobi Tubiak of Ricardo.

During “Biofuels – Continuing the Conversation” on September 27, viewers will learn how biofuels have progressed since ETTN’s first live chat on the topic published in 2021. (Watch the first installment here).

As the industry continues to look for fuel alternatives, biofuels may become the in-between that automobile manufacturers can use for performance ICE vehicles alongside their EV fleet. Tune in to hear from Ian Lehn, founder of BOOSTane, and Bjorn Noack, director at Bosch, as they explore where the aftermarket and internal combustion engines (ICE) will be in the next 15 years. Other topics addressed are legislation that supports and hinders biofuel development, companies that are currently investing in this technology and whether or not the average enthusiast has access to biofuels.

Each video will go live on the ETTN Facebook page at 12:00 p.m. PDT on the day of its release. Industry members are invited to tune in at that time and join the conversation with one another in the comments.  

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.09.23) – The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will celebrate the talents and craftsmanship of automotive restylers at the 2023 SEMA Show through its PRO Cup Challenge.

Now in its fourth year, the challenge promotes the accessorization of new cars and trucks by having six automotive restylers feature an accessory package for a new-model vehicle in the PRO Booth during the week of the SEMA Show. Restylers benefit from gaining exposure for their company and skills by developing a build that is profitable and easy to replicate. The essence of the program is to inspire and motivate others–including consumers, dealers and restylers–to customize their vehicles.

“The PRO Cup Challenge is the ultimate competition where restylers get to showcase the art of what they do every day and have it displayed in a high-profile location at the industry’s premier aftermarket trade show,” said SEMA Council Director and PRO Liaison Denise Waddingham. “Competing is a great way for restylers to get their name and business out there and share their unique take on how a new-model vehicle can be transformed.”   

Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge-winning vehicle based on mass appeal, ease to replicate and potential profitability. SEMA Showgoers will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite accessory package and recognize it with the People’s Choice Award.

Applications are due Friday, August 11. To view the build criteria and submit your application, visit the PRO Cup Challenge website.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.09.23) – The SEMA Show Online Media Center is now available for exhibiting companies to submit SEMA Show-related press releases to be included on the SEMA Show website. 

Exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees. 

With thousands of media in attendance, exhibiting companies will benefit by spotlighting their newest and most innovative products to direct media to their booths. The Online Media Center is designed specifically for journalists to find Show-related news and announcements.

Below are a couple of announcements you will find in the Online Media Center: 

• Metra to Display Infinity G37 Turbotactile™ Dash Kit at SEMA 
• Southfield Classics Ltd. to Premier New Electric Hot Rod in the Ampere EV Booth in the Electrified Section Featuring Amperes Atom Drive System With Cascadia Motion Motor
• Trulers Unveils Revolutionary Stainless Steel Ruler Set at SEMA Show 2023

 Here are a few press release tips: 

• Use a strong, short headline that catches the attention of the reader. 
• Keep the press release brief. Readers want to know what the press release is about right from the beginning. 
• Include a photo when you can. Many editors use only releases that have photos. Submit photos in a high-resolution (300 dpi) image format. 
• Always include your booth number and contact information. 

To learn more about press conferences, the online media center, or other PR resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors, contact pr@sema.org.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.08.23) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has issued a total of $245,000 in scholarship and loan forgiveness awards through its SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund to help 104 individuals pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket industry. The winners include 87 students who received scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 and 17 employees of SEMA-member companies who received loan forgiveness awards to help pay off student loans.

“SEMA receives a large number of scholarship applications each year, and the quality of this year’s applicants was truly inspiring and impressive,” said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Chris Standifer. “Their passion and innovative mindset were evident in their applications, and it gives us great hope that they will continue to advance the aftermarket industry and make a lasting impact.”

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Program was established in 1984 to help support the future of the automotive aftermarket industry. Since its inception, more than $3 million has been awarded to deserving students. One of the primary criteria for scholarship recipients is that the winner must have clearly demonstrated a passion for the automotive industry.

The online application for next year’s program will open in January 2024 at www.sema.org/scholarships.