LAS VEGAS, NV (11.06.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show rolled as the largest automotive aftermarket trade event to date. The addition of The SEMA FEST activities, designed to excite and engage enthusiasts and thus further increasing car culture, was a catalyst. With a reported 2200 exhibitors the 2023 SEMA Show definitely drew attendees to all halls on the Las Vegas Convention Center and surrounding grounds and area.
The 12volt Central Studios and The 12voltBeat on the street, worked to showcase the mobile electronics segment of the automotive aftermarket industry at the 2023 SEMA Show.
On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews, the 12volt Central Studios staff, with the help of friends and industry members, made posts showcasing exhibitor activity and is continuing to make posts beyond the SEMA Show 2023 closing bell on Friday, November 3rd. These posts are designed to continue exhibitors’ visibility and encourage dealers, reps and distributors to do the same after returning to their home bases. See action from the SEMA Show floor on Instagram #12vnn_sema2023.
Instagram #12vnn_sema2023
The 12voltSTP Tool made it very easy for all to showcase their SEMA Show 2023 activities. With the smartphone everyone has in their pocket its easy to snap and txt an image to 318 469 2526. Dealers, reps and distributors can also utilize those images once back at their offices. Dealers can showcase SEMA news to their followers to drive store traffic. Reps and distributors can do the same to let customers in their respective territories know the latest from their brands from SEMA 2023.
Let’s all work to extend the SEMA 2023 ROI for all across the 12volt industry. The 12voltSTP Tool makes it easy. Snap and Txt an image to 318-469-2526. Presto your activities could be in the 12voltnews.com.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.25.23) – Officials with the SEMA Show are excited to introduce a top-of-the-line attendee resource, Bessie, the AI-powered chatbot designed to answer all your SEMA Show questions.
SEMA Show’s Bessie AI-powered chatbot will complement SEMAShow.com and the SEMA Show mobile app, plus all the on-site collateral, signage and related resources to help attendees maximize their time at the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, in Las Vegas.
Chatting with Bessie is easy: just download the SEMA Show mobile app, visit SEMAShow.com or look for signage around the SEMA Show campus for the direct text number to access pertinent information right at your fingertips, anytime, anywhere. QR codes will also be placed around the SEMA Show campus, providing convenient access.
“Providing relevant Show information to attendees, at the right time, in the right format, is a priority for SEMA. Bessie, our new chatbot resource, puts answers to many frequently asked Show questions right at your fingertips. And since it can be accessed via QR code, direct text, via SEMAShow.com and our official mobile app, it is a great new complement to existing Show tools and provides another resource to navigate the Show and maximize experiences.”
This new resource aims to:
Enhance attendee interactions, offer personalized assistance and enrich the premier, trade-only event for all participants.
Build a stronger, more engaged community by improving overall attendee satisfaction through timely Show information.
Offer SEMA Show attendees a new text-based/SMS solution and convenient means to deliver information to mobile devices.
Create a resource that offers year-round, instant (less than 3 seconds) answers and personalized responses to attendee questions.
SEMA has selected 42Chat as the exclusive chatbot provider for the SEMA Show. 42Chat’s advanced AI-powered bots have been an integral part of many successful events and festivals, providing value to communities with instant answers and building trust through a customer-first approach to increase event engagement.
42Chat’s unique technology combines chatbots, text and micro-apps to help solve business problems.
The proprietary conversation engine responds to millions of different ways attendees will ask questions (not just specific keywords) to provide the information the attendees need, when they need it.
And, Bessie the AI chatbot will learn as it develops, so have fun getting to know the SEMA Show a little better! And, if you happen to “stump” Bessie with a question, it will share the information as it learns what questions the global community is asking the most, elevating the SEMA Show experience for years to come.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.20.23) – The Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) PRO Cup Challenge is returning to the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, with six new automotive restyled builds that will push the limits of style and creativity.
Designed to spotlight the benefits of accessorizing new-model vehicles, the competition challenges automotive restylers to develop an accessory package that is both profitable and easy to replicate. The goal of the program is to attract a wide range of vehicle buyers to accessorize their vehicles, and show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of offering marketable packages. Six competitors will have their vehicle featured in PRO Cup Challenge Booth #50185 during the week of the SEMA Show and be entered to win one of two PRO Cup Challenge awards. This year’s PRO Cup Challenge companies and vehicles are:
Apex Customs: ’24 Ford Mustang GT
Auto Sunroof & Leather: ’24 Subaru Crosstrek Sport
RDMBUILDS: ’23 Jeep Gladiator Willys
Restylers Aftermarket Specialist: ’23 GMC Sierra 1500
Top Coverage LTD: ’23 Ford F-150 Regular Cab
VIP Distributing: ’23 GMC Yukon Denali XL
Visit the PRO Cup Challenge Booth (West Hall, Booth #50185) to witness the transformative vehicle packages that were built by PRO member companies, walk away with ideas to accessorize your own car and vote for your favorite build to win the PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award.
Judges will determine the PRO Cup Challenge winning vehicle, a separate award, based on how easy the vehicle is to replicate and its estimated profit to automotive restyling companies and dealerships.
Industry members are invited to attend the winner announcement of both awards during PRO’s Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. in the LVCC West Hall, Booth #50185.
To learn more about the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, visit here.
HOLLY HILL, FL (10.18.23) – Saddle Tramp® by Metra Electronics® is introducing new plug-n-play audio systems and speaker upgrade kits for select 2014-2022 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles along with universal chasing LED light strip kits at the SEMA show. The audio systems will be sold exclusively to brick-and-mortar dealers for in-store sales only. They pair Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifiers and Speakers from HARMAN with Saddle Tramp® DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment. These products will be displayed from October 31 to November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Metra’s main SEMA Show booth will be #10539 in the North Hall of the LVCC, and its off-roading and powersports products will be on display at booth #60031 in the West Hall.
Plug-n-Play Audio Systems
Metra will debut three new audio system integration kits for 2014-2022 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide and 2015-2022 Road Glide motorcycles and accessory lower fairing installation kits for twin-cooled and non-twin-cooled applications. These all-in-one audio systems include everything needed to install an impressive aftermarket audio system in one package; HARMAN’s Infinity speakers and 4-channel amplifiers, paired with an assortment of Saddle Tramp products that make installation easy. A Saddle Tramp DSP interface is included in each kit to reflash the OE radio, pre-tuned by HARMAN Acoustic Sound Engineers to provide best-in-class audio performance. These systems are truly plug-n-play and do not require the installer to cut any wires. They also come with step-by-step instructions to ensure results that installers can be proud of.
2-Speaker Plug-N-Play Audio System (INFKP2SPKSYS)
Fits motorcycles equipped with factory fairings
Includes two of HARMAN’s Kappa Perfect 6.5″ speakers, a 4-channel amplifier, and Saddle Tramp installation products
4-Speaker Plug-N-Play Audio System (INFKP4SPKSYS)
Fits motorcycles equipped with factory fairings and saddlebags
Includes two of HARMAN’s Kappa Perfect 6.5″ speakers, two 6″x9′ cut-in saddlebag speakers, a 4-channel amplifier, and Saddle Tramp installation products
6-Speaker Plug-N-Play Audio System (INFKP6SPKSYS)
Fits motorcycles equipped with factory fairings, Tour Pak, and saddle bags
Includes four of HARMAN’s Kappa Perfect 6.5″ speakers, two 6″x9′ cut-in saddlebag speakers, two 4-channel amplifiers, and Saddle Tramp installation products
Fits 2014-2022 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide and 2015-2022 Road Glide motorcycles with twin-cooled engines
Includes two of HARMAN’s Kappa Perfect 6.5″ speakers, a vehicle-specific Saddle Tramp wiring harness, and lower fairing enclosures with speaker grilles
Fits 2014-2022 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide and 2015-2022 Road Glide motorcycles with non-twin-cooled engines
Includes two of HARMAN’s Kappa Perfect 6.5″ speakers, a vehicle-specific Saddle Tramp wiring harness, and lower fairing ported speaker enclosures with grilles
Saddlebag Speaker Upgrade Kit (INFKP900XKIT)
Fits 2014-2022 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide and 2015-2022 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide with saddlebags, equipped with the 2-Speaker Plug-N-Play Audio System (INFKP2SPKSYS)
Includes two of HARMAN’s Infinity Kappa Perfect 900X 6″x9″ cut-in saddlebag speakers, a vehicle-specific Saddle Tramp backbone wiring harness, and installation accessories
HARMAN’s Infinity Kappa Perfect Speakers deliver the ultimate listening experience on two wheels. They feature a lightweight, premium design and factory look and are durably constructed to last for miles and miles. They combine water-resistant construction, patented Plus One™ basalt fiber woofer cones, and edge-driven polyphenylene sulfide dome tweeters, providing an amazing soundstage with great bass and silky-smooth highs. The brand’s high-performance amplifiers are engineered to meet the demands of compact installation locations and withstand extreme environments. They feature Molex connectors to attach the Saddle Tramp DSP and a small footprint to easily fit into tight fairings.
10-Piece Chasing LED Motorcycle Kit
SEMA attendees will see a new 10-piece chasing LED light strip kit, the BC-CHASE-K3. This kit is designed to add brilliant chasing LED lighting to any motorcycle. It includes ten lighting strips with addressable LEDs, extension cables, RF remote, hardware, and from Heise LED, the Heise Connect Controller. The IP67-rated strips are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring long-lasting performance and a brilliant glow for countless rides. Saddle Tramp has designed this kit to work cohesively with all Heise chasing LED lighting as part of the Heise Connect Universe (HCU). Lighting effects are controlled using the included RF remote or the Heise Connect app, available for download on smartphones and tablets. Users can choose from static color settings, 170+ color-changing patterns, DIY lighting patterns, music sync, and more. There is also a setting to turn all lights red when braking, allowing riders to be seen from a distance and raising awareness of the motorcycle’s presence on the road.
4-Piece Chasing LED Motorcycle Strip Light Expansion Pack
Another new kit debuting at SEMA, the BC-CHASE-4PC, is a convenient 4-piece expansion pack that expands the Saddle Tramp® chasing LED lighting kit on any motorcycle. Installers simply connect the included chasing LED strips to the existing chasing LED lighting kit and enjoy an expanded display with endless customization. These durable strips are IP67-rated and feature a 3M double-sided backing for easy installation. They work with an existing kit’s Heise Connect Chasing Controller so that the lights can be remotely controlled using the free downloadable Heise Connect mobile app for smartphones and tablets. The app allows users to choose from 170+ color-changing patterns, a turn signal and brake function, a DIY pattern function, a music sync function, and more.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.13.23) – Builders and engineers who are featuring a vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31–November 3 in Las Vegas, have until Wednesday, October 25, to submit their entries for the new SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year award. The award will honor and celebrate a build that demonstrates quality engineering throughout the entire vehicle or features an aspect that goes beyond just physical appearance.
The award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle’s design and engineering.
“While vehicle aesthetics have always played a crucial role in the automotive aftermarket, this award recognizes the intricate engineering that transforms a vehicle into a masterpiece of design and functionality,” said Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs. “It also sheds light on the technical brilliance behind the build and provides a platform for engineers to showcase their transformative innovations.”
To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video, description of the engineering content included in the build and the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show into their submission. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 25, at this link.
The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central (Booth #10001, Central Hall) on Thursday, November 2, at the SEMA Show.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.10.23) – SEMA Show exhibitors have voted on the top trend-setting vehicles in the automotive aftermarket. Voted by experts and innovators in the automotive specialty equipment industry, these leading vehicles represent the best business opportunities for aftermarket manufacturers and are vying for awards in six categories at this year’s Show.
The winning vehicle in each category will be announced prior to the SEMA Show Monday Reveal at 5 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Held the evening before the opening of the Show, the Monday Reveal gives media and exhibitors a sneak peek at a few of the more than 1,500 vehicles that will be on display during the week.
The 2023 SEMA Show is receiving tremendous support from the automotive aftermarket and is forecasted to return to historic levels as one of the most highly anticipated trade shows in the country.
Finalists for SEMA Awards (in alphabetical order):
SEMA Car of the Year Ford Mustang Toyota Supra
SEMA Mid-Size Truck of the Year Jeep Gladiator Toyota Tacoma
SEMA Full-Size Truck of the Year Ford F-Series Toyota Tundra
SEMA 4×4/SUV of the Year Ford Bronco Jeep Wrangler
SEMA Sport Compact Car of the Year Nissan Z Toyota GR86
SEMA Electric Vehicle of the Year Ford Lightning Lexus RZ
The SEMA Award finalists represent exhibiting automakers that support the aftermarket with accessory-friendly models based on their potential for customization. Exhibitors choose to develop products for new vehicles that have wide consumer appeal, and regularly collaborate with automakers through such programs as SEMA Measuring Sessions and Tech Transfer.
To learn more about the 2023 SEMA Show taking place Oct. 31–Nov. 3, in Las Vegas, Nev., visit www.semashow.com.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.28.23) – New economic data released shows the significant impact that the specialty equipment aftermarket for motor vehicles has on America’s economy–and just what it means for people across the country.
Amid the ongoing United Auto Workers strike at the Big Three car manufacturers, the report provides compelling data that the specialty automotive aftermarket is robust, despite the challenging economic environment.
SEMA commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates and based on 2023 U.S. economy data. SEMA represents more than 7,000 member businesses, the vast majority being small businesses, across the United States. The industry manufactures, sells and distributes aftermarket performance and accessory parts for passenger cars, trucks and 4-wheel off-road vehicles.
The “SEMA Economic Impact Report” shows the financial output and support to the U.S. economy of the specialty-equipment market.
There are several key findings in the report:
Nationwide, the specialty-equipment industry supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.
More than $104 billion worth of wages and benefits earned by American workers annually are supported by the industry.
The industry accounts for more than $40 billion in taxes, including $24 billion in federal taxes and $16 billion in state and local taxes), which support the development of critical national and local infrastructure.
The industry contributes more than $336 billion to the American economy annually.
These businesses employ more than twice the number of people as the U.S. aircraft industry and more people than the entire motion picture and video production industry. The aftermarket industry helps small businesses to grow, create new jobs and hire more workers, and builds partnerships that expand local economies across the United States.
This economic impact study complements the industry’s annual market report on consumer trends. Consumers spent $52 billion on specialty automotive aftermarket products in 2022.
SEMA has released an interactive map that provides users with state-by-state, congressional and state-house and senate data in addition to the national numbers.
“We’re extremely proud that our industry represents such a key part of America’s economy, affecting any motorist who has upgraded their vehicle for a host of needs,” said Mike Spagnola, SEMA’s president and CEO. “SEMA’s 7,000-plus members, which are primarily small businesses and the more than one million workers in the specialty aftermarket, are extraordinary contributors to making the United States and local economies stronger across the country. It’s an industry that, one way or another, everyone has a stake in. It provides people with good-paying jobs, and our local, state and federal coffers with taxes that grow our country’s economy. SEMA’s ecosystem is a powerhouse economic engine driving positive change, innovation and opportunity to America’s big cities and small towns, working families and small businesses. The specialty-equipment aftermarket has proven to be a vibrant industry that delivers economic support to all 50 states.”
Tickets are now available for SEMA Fest, the inaugural, two-day outdoor festival to be held Friday, November 3-Saturday, November 4, 12:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds in Las Vegas, that brings together automotive enthusiasts, the biggest names in music and the hottest automotive brands in a large-scale festival format. The prized SEMA Ignited event has evolved into a bigger and more exciting two-day event now known as SEMA Fest, which will give consumers a chance to participate in an automotive and music experience like none other! It’s a must-attend event that’s open to the public and features incredible automotive and motorsports activations the SEMA crowd is used to, like the following:
Nitro Circus, the provider of some of the biggest and raddest events in action sports. Formula DRIFT, the high-skilled, high-powered sport of drifting. Ride With Us, the not-for-profit organization that spreads the thrill of motorcycle riding to the community.
Not only that, SEMA Fest is also headlined by world-class musical acts Imagine Dragons, Incubus, Wiz Khalifa, AJR, Third Eye Blind, Bush, Walk the Moon, Ludacris, The Struts, Badflower, Chase Matthew, Meg Meyers, Ayron Jones, Rome & Duddy, renforshort, Starcrawler, Dead Sara, Bones UK, Brooke Alexx, Paper Idol, The Foxies, Good Boy Daisy and Hot Crazy.
SEMA Fest, open to all ages of the public, will unite automotive enthusiasts with the aftermarket industry “in a high-octane and immersive festival-like celebration of car culture.” The event will feature a full slate of automotive lifestyle events, including world-class drifting, motorsports competitions, freestyle motocross, off-road demonstrations, ride-and-drive activations, craft foods and a bustling consumer marketplace.
Whether you’re a diehard car enthusiast, a motorsports fan, a music lover or just like to have a good time, SEMA Fest is an event not to miss.
The inaugural SEMA Fest marks the conclusion of SEMA Week, which kicks off with the 2023 SEMA Show on October 31–November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
SEMA Fest: Ticketing and Admission Admissions to SEMA Fest can be purchased at five distinct levels:
2-Day General Admission (all ages): $179, which allows access to all General Admission areas, including the SEMA Fest Marketplace, motorsports activations, headlining talent on two stages, and food and beverages are available for purchase. 2-Day General Admission PLUS (all ages): $229, which includes access to all the features of 2-Day General Admissions as well as access to mobile phone charging stations, upgraded restroom facilities, and limited paid lockers to secure your personal belongings. SEMA Show Friday Festival Experience (ages 16+): $299, which includes access to all the features of 2-Day General Admission PLUS as well as access to the SEMA Show on Friday, November 3, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The Friday Festival Experience offers the ultimate bucket-list enthusiast experience like no other event on the planet. It’s the best place to see the newest automotive performance products and discover the latest product and vehicle trends before anyone else. SEMA Fest VIP (all ages): $349, which includes access to all the features of 2-Day General Admission PLUS admissions as well as exclusive access to a VIP viewing area with premium sightlines, VIP food and beverages for purchase and VIP washrooms. SEMA Fest VIP and SEMA Show Friday Package (ages 16+): $469, which includes access to all the features of SEMA VIP admissions as well as access to the SEMA Show floor on Friday, November 3, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Keep an eye out for more details on the SEMA Fest ticket rewards program. To purchase tickets and receive the latest SEMA Fest updates, visit semafest.com.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.22.23) – U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act (H.R. 1435) from Representative John Joyce (R-PA). The bill passed with bipartisan support (222 to 190), with eight Democrats joining their Republican colleagues to advance this legislation. The SEMA-supported legislation prohibits the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing a waiver to California for regulations that would ban the sale of new motor vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) in the state by 2035.
SEMA thanks Rep. Joyce for leading the fight to ensure Americans can choose the type of motor vehicle that best meets their needs. “The last thing my constituents want is another oppressive Biden Administration mandate that puts a radical environmental agenda and far-left special interests above their individual freedoms,” said Congressman Joyce. “There is nothing more quintessentially American than the freedom of the open road, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for supporting this important legislation protecting the freedom of all Americans to drive the vehicles of their choice.”
House Energy and Commerce (E&C) Committee Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) shepherded H.R. 1435 through the committee in July. As Chair of the E&C Committee, which has jurisdiction over automotive issues and the Clean Air Act, McMorris Rodgers has been a lead advocate for technology-neutral vehicle policies. “Seventeen other states have similar bans on internal combustion engines that would be triggered if EPA approves California’s request,” said Chairwoman McMorris Rodgers. “This affects 40% of the United States’ new vehicle market–and companies don’t customize cars for every state.”
To date, 14 out of 17 CARB states have begun adopting regulations to follow the California zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) mandate. The existing ZEV regulations are so onerous that Stellantis, a member of the Big Three, has stopped shipping gas-powered Jeeps to dealers in those states and customers wanting gas-powered vehicles must place a special order.
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), the co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, introduced S. 2090, a Senate companion bill to H.R. 1435 (includes the same bill text). The House and Senate versions of the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act now await consideration in the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.
Click here to send your U.S. Senators a letter asking them to support the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act by co-sponsoring S. 2090.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.19.23) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced a special new award that will recognize a featured vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show that showcases exceptional engineering. The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award will honor and celebrate a build that demonstrates quality engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance.
The award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty equipment industry and places a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle’s design and engineering.
“While vehicle aesthetics have always played a crucial role in the automotive aftermarket, this award recognizes the intricate engineering that transforms a vehicle into a masterpiece of design and functionality,” said Chris Standifer, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “It also sheds light on the technical brilliance behind the build and provides a platform for engineers to showcase their transformative innovations.”
To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video, description of the engineering content included in the build, and the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show into their submission. Entries are being accepted until October 25 at this link.
The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, Nov. 2, at the 2023 SEMA Show.
12VoltNews.com 