Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (2024)

Academy of Country Music and Lucas Oil Announce Next Artists For “ACM Garage Talk” Video Series

The recently launched video series rounded out last year with Chase Matthew and Danielle Bradbery; In 2024, Mitchell Tenpenny and Tenille Townes are sharing personal stories of vehicles that marked important life moments
ACM Garage Talk is available on YouTube and multiple social media platforms, as well as prominent motorsports TV network, MAVTV
The 59th ACM Awards will take place on May 16 live from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX, and will stream live on Prime Video globally and exclusively. Tickets are available for purchase at ACMawards.com
Lucas Oil Live at WinStar World Casino and Resort in Oklahoma is also nominated for “Theater of the Year – Casino” at the ACM Awards

INDIANAPOLIS (April 17, 2024) – Lucas Oil, the world leader and distributor of high-performance automotive additives and lubricants, and the Academy of Country Music are announcing the next ACM Garage Talk artists into 2024. On the heels of the series’ recent launch, Mitchell Tenpenny and Tenille Townes join Chase Matthew and Danielle Bradbery in sharing their own personal stories surrounding vehicles that have marked some of the most nostalgic or pivotal moments in their lives.

Chase Matthew picked up the series, detailing his love affair with his 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 truck, affectionately referred to as “Kraken.” With over 900 million global career streams – including more than 275 million from his first RIAA Platinum-certified smash, “County Line” – Matthew has seen both independent streaming success and a chart-rising Top 30 single on Country radio (with debut “Love You Again”), all while tastemakers call out his next-up status.
Danielle Bradbery – who first broke into the scene by winning The Voice at age 16 in 2013, followed by prominent releases to include “Sway” and “The Heart of Dixie” – rocked into the lineup with her own truck tales. The two-time ACM Award nominee’s more recent releases include "A Special Place" and Gold-certified “Stop Draggin’ Your Boots,” which has amassed more than 125 million streams to date. Bradbery's episode can be viewed here.
Mitchell Tenpenny joined the lineup, sharing the story behind how his F150 played a pivotal role in the making of his No.1 hit, “At the End of a Bar,” while also diving into the family ties that led to his passion for hitting the open road. The Platinum selling artist hits the road this year to tour with Jordan Davis and Luke Combs – and readies a new album for release later this year. Watch his episode here.
Tenille Townes rounded out the series alongside her Toyota Tacoma, the trusty truck that not only facilitated her 47-hour move from Alberta, Canada, to Nashville, TN, but also inspired her latest song, “Thing That Brought Me Here (Truck Song).” In her words: “I wrote this song with Ben Rector about my truck that’s become a symbol of the dream for me and a piece of home,” Townes reminisces. “I want the story of ‘Thing That Brought Me Here’ to live on through a song and I want it to be a reminder to anyone listening that our ambitions are worth holding on to and fighting for.” Her episode can be viewed here.

In addition to YouTube and various social media platforms, ACM Garage Talk episodes will also be aired on prominent motorsports TV network, MAVTV, nationally and globally. The series is set to expand with a host of new artists – soon to be announced for 2024.

Fans can catch the biggest stars in Country Music on the ACM Awards stage on May 16, live from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX, streaming live on Prime Video globally and exclusively. Tickets for the ACM Awards are available for purchase at ACMawards.com.

At the show, the brand will also attend as an active participant with its Lucas Oil Live venue at WinStar World Casino and Resort in Oklahoma nominated in the ACM Awards’ “Casino of the Year – Theater” category.

For more information about the ACM Garage Talk Series, or to schedule an interview with Lucas Oil and ACM leadership, please contact LucasOil@GoDriven360.com.

About the Academy of Country Music

Founded in Southern California in 1964 as a regional trade organization, the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC (ACM) has grown in the almost-60 years since into a leading association for the Country Music industry. Now headquartered in Nashville, TN and boasting record-high membership of more than 5,000 worldwide, the Academy serves as a powerhouse advocate for Country fans, artists, and all facets of the business, as well as a supporter of philanthropic work through charitable partner ACM LIFTING LIVES, dedicated to improving lives through the power of music and providing aid in times of need, with a focus on health initiatives. 2023 was another monumental year for the Academy, with the 58th ACM Awards, hosted by global superstars Dolly Parton and Garth Brooks, ranking as one of the most-watched awards shows of the year. 2024 will see the ACM Awards return in May to the world headquarters of the Dallas Cowboys in Texas for a second consecutive year and stream live for a global audience on Prime Video. The Academy also remains relentlessly committed to creating a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups in Country Music, from the boardroom to the stage, and proudly presents both ACM LEVel Up, a two-year professional development and enrichment curriculum for rising leaders, and OnRamp, a guaranteed income program for Black members of the Nashville music community, in partnership with the Black Music Action Coalition. For more information, visit ACMcountry.com or ACMLiftingLives.org.

About Lucas Oil

For more than 35 years, Lucas has set the world standard in superior engine oils, additives, appearance and lubricant products – powering lifestyles across the automotive, trucking, marine, outdoor, motorsports, industrial and home product worlds. The hard-charging American brand’s commitment to bring the ultimate in performance solutions impacts every customer and partner equally – from jointly-engineered oil for racing teams like Richard Childress Racing (RCR), Monster Jam®, sports teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts, to additives that deliver unrivaled fuel economy, power and extended engine life to an everyday driver.

Based in Indianapolis, the company’s rapidly expanding global footprint is highlighted by cutting-edge research and development operations, evolving retail channels and high-tech manufacturing. More than 300 premium products make up the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries and big-name retailers that include Amazon, Walmart, AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, Carquest and more. For more information, visit www.LucasOil.com and follow #TeamLucasOil on Facebook, Twitter, X, Instagram and TikTok.

Lucas Oil Named Primary Sponsor of RCR’s No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet for Three Races in 2024 – Partnership Highlights On-Track Success, Longstanding Partnership

Kyle Busch Heads to Three Iconic NASCAR Tracks with Similar Race-Winning Paint Scheme He Took to Victory Lane in 2023

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WELCOME, N.C. (April 2, 2024) – Lucas Oil, a long-time partner of both Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines, continues the expansion of its partnership as the primary sponsor of the No. 8 Chevrolet driven by two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch for multiple races in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season. Fans will see the familiar race-winning Lucas Oil paint scheme for the first time April 7 at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia, kicking off a multi-race primary partnership.

“After reaching victory lane with Kyle’s No. 8 Chevrolet in 2023, we are very excited to announce that we’ve expanded our primary sponsorship to include multiple races in 2024 at some of NASCAR’s most legendary tracks,” said Brandon Bernstein, director of partnership marketing for Lucas Oil. “In addition to being one of the winningest organizations in NASCAR and all of motorsports, RCR and ECR Engines continues to be an amazing partner both on and off the track. We are very proud to again have Kyle represent the Lucas Oil shield as he competes for his third Cup championship.”

Lucas Oil has served as the official lubricant of RCR and ECR Engines since 2014 and is the official motor oil of ECR Engines. ECR Engines and Lucas Oil have recorded a total of 133 wins between 2014 and 2023, with another four victories already in 2024.

“Over the past 10 years, Lucas Oil has been an amazing partner to RCR and ECR Engines and we are thrilled to have them back as the primary sponsor of the No. 8 Chevrolet,” said Torry Galida, President of RCR. “The technical support they provide to our race teams and ECR has resulted in numerous victories, which is why it is so special to highlight this partnership on the No. 8 Chevrolet. We have no doubt Kyle will be competing for wins this year while representing the Lucas Oil brand.”

In addition to the NASCAR Cup Series races, Lucas Oil is also the Official Oil of Kyle and Brexton Busch. Kyle is competing in 20-25 Micro Sprint events in 2024 with a Lucas Oil full-car wrap and racing suit. Lucas Oil is also a proud associate sponsor for all of Brexton's racing disciplines. Brexton is a third-generation racer, beginning his racing career at age five. He earned his first win just one month into his racing career, and now Lucas Oil is at the heart of this father/son racing legacy.

Since 2014, expert scientists and technicians at Lucas Oil have worked closely with RCR and ECR to refine the perfect blend of engine oil capable of drawing out every competitive advantage possible. The teams test engines in simulators and real-world racing scenarios capturing hundreds of data points to measure and find areas of improvement.

For more information and all that is going on at RCR, visit rcrracing.com.

About Lucas Oil:

For more than 35 years, Lucas has set the world standard in superior engine oils, additives, appearance and lubricant products – powering lifestyles across the automotive, trucking, marine, outdoor, motorsports, industrial and home product worlds. The hard-charging American brand’s commitment to bring the ultimate in performance solutions impacts every customer and partner equally – from jointly-engineered oil for racing teams like Richard Childress Racing (RCR), Monster Jam®, sports teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts, to additives that deliver unrivaled fuel economy, power and extended engine life to an everyday driver.

Based in Indianapolis, the company’s rapidly expanding global footprint is highlighted by cutting-edge research and development operations, evolving retail channels and high-tech manufacturing. More than 300 premium products make up the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries and big-name retailers that include Amazon, Walmart, AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, Carquest and more. For more information, visit www.LucasOil.com and follow #TeamLucasOil on Facebook, Twitter, X, Instagram and TikTok.

About Richard Childress Racing:
Richard Childress Racing www.rcrracing.com is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2024 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Jesse Love (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

March 30 , 2024
MINNESOTA BROADCASTERS NEW CAR AND TRUCK AWARDS
ANNOUNCED AT 51ST TWIN CITIES AUTO SHOW

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Minneapolis (March 30, 2024) --- The 51st Annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip opened its nine-day run today at the Minneapolis Convention Center. For the second year, a dozen vehicles from EVs to SUVs were honored with a Minnesota Broadcasters New Car and Truck Award.

Members of the Minnesota Broadcasters Association reviewed and judged the hundreds of vehicles at the 2024 Twin Cities Auto Show earlier today. Winners were announced this afternoon at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Featured speakers and presenters included: Scott Lambert, President of the GMADA; Wendy Paulson, President of the Minnesota Broadcasters Association; Mary Velline, Twin Cities Auto Show Director; and Paul Douglas, Meteorologist and Twin Cities Auto Show EV Spokesperson.

Here are the winners in each category:

Best Electric Vehicle Ford F-150 Lightning

Best Hybrid Electric Vehicle Toyota Prius Prime

Best Subcompact & Compact Car Mazda MX-5

Best Mid-Size & Large Car Audi A4

Best Luxury Car Aston Martin DB12

Best Luxury SUV Bentley Bentayga

Best Full-Size Pick-up Truck Ram 2500 Heavy Duty

Best Compact / Mid-Size Pickup Ford Ranger

Best Large SUV Volvo EX90

Best Mid-Size SUV Volkswagen Atlas

Best Minivan & Van Kia Carnival

Best in Show Hyundai IONIQ 6

The 51st Annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip takes place at the Minneapolis Convention Center through Sunday, April 7. The Twin Cities Auto Show is a production of the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Dealers Association (GMADA). GMADA is an organization consisting of new car and truck franchised dealers in the Greater Minneapolis and St. Paul area.

The Minnesota Broadcasters Association (MBA) is a united voice that promotes and advocates for broadcasting by representing the radio and television industry and their related platforms. We provide member stations with a wide variety of services, including advocacy at the state and federal levels, providing legal counsel, and coordinating professional development seminars.

For more information, visit TwinCitiesAutoShow.com.

CONTACT: Molly Mulvehill Steinke, Nemer Fieger, molly@nemerfieger.com, 612-309-1677

Mike Haberman, Nemer Fieger, mhaberman@nemerfieger.com, 612-432-9898

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Molly Mulvehill Steinke / Director of Media Relations

C: 612-309-1677 / molly@nemerfieger.com

March 30 – Apri, 2024 at the Minneapolis Convention Center

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The 51st Annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip will roll into the Minneapolis Convention Center for nine days, March 30 – April 7, 2024. The event, the largest consumer show in the Upper Midwest, is produced by the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Association of Minnesota, Inc. (GMADA).

The Twin Cities Auto Show is the place to compare hundreds of new vehicles in every category - sedans, compacts, SUVs, trucks, EVs, luxury cars - from domestic and imported brands all under one roof without driving to dealerships around town, including new makes and models that can’t be found on dealer lots. The Twin Cities Auto Show is a non-selling show.

What’s New in 2024:

Celebrity Appearance: Meet Constance Nunes of Netflix’s “Car Master: Rust to Riches”
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Saturday, March 30 (11 a.m. and 2 p.m.) and Sunday, March 31 (12 p.m. and 3 p.m.) in the Custom Garage

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Constance Nunes – “A Glam Girl Wrenching in a Boy’s World” - has over 19 years of experience in the automotive industry. She is the CEO and lead mechanic, designer, and builder at CARS By Constance in Southern California.

Constance stars as the lead mechanic on the Netflix original series, “Car Master: Rust to Riches,” where she has helped the team at Gotham Garage build unique specialty cars for five seasons with a sixth currently in production.

The Twin Cities Auto Show is thrilled to welcome one of the more famous cars built at Gotham Garage during the filming of “Car Master: Rust to Riches” – The Splittin’ Image, designed by Ire Gilford, is a life-size working car modeled after a Hot Wheels toy. This custom Splittin’ Image is built on a 1986 Corvette with the original engine and transmission. It was built and customized in 2015 by Gotham Garage owner Mark Towle with Constance as the lead engine mechanic on the project.

Cars Against Crime™ Display of Movie and TV Cars

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Cars Against Crime™ is a nonprofit that raises funds to provide grants to service organizations benefitting police, fire fighters, and first responders.

Cars Against Crime utilizes a world class collection of movie cars and television cars. These crime fighting vehicles serve as tools to enhance events, create memories, and bring joy to the community.

Organizations supported in 2024 include Wills for Heroes, Metro Critical Incident Stress Management, Crimestoppers, and Frontline Foundation.

The Twin Cities Auto Show is hosting this fantastic display to encourage donations to Cars Against Crime in support of our brave public safety professionals.

Adrenaline Avenue
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Introducing Adrenaline Avenue presented by DRIVEIFY.

This display is your license to dream, your invitation to step into the driver’s seat and feel luxury at its finest.

Immerse yourself in the power, style, and exhilaration that define some of the world’s most coveted vehicles.

Get Your Auto Show Tickets at Kwik Trip

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Kwik Trip will sell Twin Cities Auto Show tickets at select stores around the Twin Cities.

Tickets sold at Kwik Trip stores will be $6 off the at-the-door price of $17. Kwik Rewards members may have the chance for additional perks.

Plus, attendees will be able to register onsite every day of the show to win FREE fuel for a year, compliments of Kwik Trip. No purchase necessary.

Show Highlights

Twice as big as years past, the 2024 Electric Vehicle Neighborhood and the Electric Garage powered by Xcel Energy will be charged up with experts, the latest in electric vehicle technology, and information to help potential EV buyers make their decision to
plug in.

The life-size Xcel Energy Garage allows you to see how low-impact and convenient electric vehicle ownership can be, especially when you can charge your vehicle right in your own garage. We look forward to sharing this demonstration with attendees and helping them make an informed decision about electric mobility.

Sign up to test drive one or more EVs in which a professional driver will acquaint attendees with the vehicle and ride along on your test drive. Routes have been pre-determined to make it a convenient and comfortable experience. Manufacturers offering test drives include Ford (Mustang and Lightning), Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Polestar.

Attendees can also register to win a fresh-and-foldable Honda Motocompacto, the new ultra-compact e-scooter which becomes its own lightweight, compact, and stackable carrying case.

Legendary Meteorologist Paul Douglas is back as the Electric Vehicle spokesperson for the Twin Cities Auto Show. An EV owner himself, Paul offers intelligent insight into the EV products available.

The 2024 Car of the Show is the Honda Pilot. The Pilot is the largest and most powerful SUV in Honda history and will be on display at the show entrance, in the Convention Center concourse, and within the Honda display.

Luxury Lane is bigger than ever this year! The display has established itself as a must-see for both automotive enthusiasts as well as casual car fans. Discover some of Minnesota’s finest and most lavish vehicles.

Subaru will be hosting dog adoptions as a part of their Subaru Loves Pets Campaign. The dogs will be from Midwest Animal Rescues and Services, a local organization committed to the awareness and support of homeless dogs and cats.

At the Custom Garage sponsored by Automotive Concepts, attendees can find ways to make cars as unique as possible. Whether they dream of sleek luxury, rugged off-road capability, or cutting-edge technology, we’re here to help customize new vehicles to perfectly suit any lifestyle.

The Unique Classic Cars room is sponsored by Unique Classic Cars of Mankato. Step back in time and explore a fantastic collection of classic cars. Immerse into automotive history as attendees wander among meticulously restored vintage vehicles, each with its own story to tell.

Minnesota State Patrol Troopers will be on hand to talk about their mission to keep people safe on the roads. The troopers will have some of their squad cars on view, including a 1954 Ford and 1979 Dodge St. Regis.

Special Events

Minnesota Broadcasters Association New Car & Truck Awards: Saturday, March 30

Join us at noon on Opening Day to learn which vehicles will be honored with an MBA’s New Car & Truck Award.

The 12 award categories include: Electric Vehicle, Hybrid Electric Vehicle, Subcompact & Compact Car, Midsize & Large Car, Luxury Car, Luxury SUV, Full Size Pick-up Truck, Compact/Mid-Size Pickup, Large SUV, Mid-Size SUV, Mini Van & Van, and Best in Show.

This event will be held in the Electric Vehicle Neighborhood and hosted by Paul Douglas.

Military Appreciation Night: Tuesday, April 2

On this 10th annual Military Appreciation Night, all active military and veterans will receive FREE entry to the Twin Cities Auto Show courtesy of Toyota. Guests and family members accompanying military professionals will receive $7 off admission.

A ceremony will be held at 7 p.m., in the Toyota display, complete with color guard and the singing of “The National Anthem.” On behalf of the GMADA, the Twin Cities Auto Show will present donations to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of Minnesota and the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MAC-V).

Career in Cars Day: Wednesday, April 3 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Minnesota Auto Dealers Association (MADA) is once again hosting a day dedicated to showcasing the careers available in the retail auto industry for young adults and job seekers. Anyone interested in attending can sign up on the Auto Show website.

Those who register in advance will receive a special credential, free admission to the Twin Cities Auto Show, and a complimentary Auto Show t-shirt (while supplies last).

“Survivor” Casting Call: Thursday, April 4 from 4 – 9 p.m.

Join WCCO and the Twin Cities Auto Show for an open casting call. This is Minnesota’s to apply for the adventure of a lifetime.

Auto Show After Dark: Friday, April 5 beginning at 6 p.m.

On this evening, we turn down the show lights and illuminate the show floor with headlights, running lights, interior lights – all to produce a brilliant nighttime atmosphere.

The 51st Annual Twin Cities Auto Show

LOCATION: Minneapolis Convention Center

1301 Second Ave. South, Minneapolis

DATES: Saturday, March 30 through April 7, 2024

HOURS: Fridays, Saturdays, Wednesday, Thursday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Monday and Tuesday 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

TICKETS: Adults (16+) $13 online ($17 onsite)

Teens (11 – 15) $6

Children 10 and under FREE

Military Appreciation - Tuesday, April 2 FREE for Vets and Current Military

$7 off for Family and Friends

Half-Price Wednesday (April 3) $8.50

$3 off coupons are available at GMADA metro member auto dealerships.

WEBSITE: TwinCitiesAutoShow.com

SOCIAL: Facebook and Snapchat: TCAutoShow

Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok: @tcautoshow

PRODUCER: The Twin Cities Auto Show is a production of the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Dealers Association (GMADA). GMADA is an organization consisting of new car and truck franchised dealers in the Greater Minneapolis and St. Paul area.

The 2024 GMADA Chair is Tim Carter of Richfield Bloomington Honda. GMADA President is Scott Lambert. Twin Cities Auto Show Director is Mary Velline.

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KWIK TRIP EXTENDS PRESENTING SPONSORSHIP
WITH TWIN CITIES AUTO SHOW

Three-Year Partnership Means Convenience, Discounted Tickets, and a Chance at Free Fuel for a Year

The 51st Annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip returns to the Minneapolis Convention Center, March 30 – April 7, 2024

Minneapolis (January 12, 2024) --- In 2023, Kwik Trip came on board as presenting sponsor of the Twin Cities Auto Show. After a successful test drive, the Twin Cities Auto Show announces Kwik Trip has extended its presenting sponsorship status for the next three years, 2024 through 2026.

New this year - Kwik Trip will sell Twin Cities Auto Show tickets starting February 1st at select stores around the Twin Cities. Tickets sold at Kwik Trip stores will be $6 off the at-the-door price of $17. Kwik Rewards members may have the chance for additional perks.

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Another great benefit of the partnership: the chance to win FREE fuel for a year.

Attendees will be able to register onsite every day of the show to win FREE fuel for a year, compliments of Kwik Trip. No purchase necessary. One entry per email address.

“Kwik Trip is excited to announce the partnership with the Twin Cities Auto Show to be the main sponsor for this event for the next three years,” says Ben Leibl, public relations specialist for Kwik Trip. “This is a premier event to highlight new vehicles coming to the market and we are thrilled to be a part of it.”

“This is a great partnership,” stated GMADA President Scott Lambert. “It combines the premiere fueling and shopping stores in the Twin Cities with one of the top showcases in the country for new cars and trucks.”

The 51st Annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip will return to the Minneapolis Convention Center, March 30 – April 7, 2024. Since 1973, the Twin Cities Auto Show has been the place to check out the latest in automotive innovation. Attendees can compare hundreds of new vehicles in every category - sedans, compacts, SUVs, trucks, EVs, luxury cars - from domestic and imported brands all under one roof without driving to dealerships around town.

The Twin Cities Auto Show is a production of the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Dealers Association (GMADA). GMADA is an organization consisting of more than 130 new car and truck franchised

dealers in the Greater Minneapolis and St. Paul area. For more information, visit TwinCitiesAutoShow.com.

Kwik Trip is a family-owned company that serves customers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, and South Dakota with 865 convenient, clean retail convenience stores. In 2023, Kwik Trip was recognized by USA Today as the best gas station in the country for the fourth consecutive year. Visit kwiktrip.com to learn more.

CONTACT: Molly Mulvehill Steinke, Nemer Fieger, molly@nemerfieger.com, 612-309-1677

Lucas Oil Products Expands Relationship with Richard Childress Racing and Kyle Busch in 2024

Partnership includes support of Kyle Busch Micro Sprint races and Brexton Busch schedule.

WELCOME, N.C. (Dec. 18, 2023) – Lucas Oil Products, a long-time partner of both Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines, will expand their partnership with Richard Childress Racing and Kyle Busch in 2024, the companies announced today. The Indianapolis, Ind., based company will partner with RCR and Busch for multiple NASCAR Cup Series races and also continue as the official motor oil of ECR engines.

Lucas Oil will also serve as primary sponsor for both Kyle and Brexton Busch. Kyle will feature the Lucas Oil colors when he competes in the Micro Sprint car series. Kyle will debut the Lucas Oil colors on December 26 in The Tulsa Shootout. Brexton will also have Lucas on board in his 2024 racing program.

“RCR and ECR share our passion for motorsports, from the grassroots to the highest levels of the sport,” said Brandon Bernstein, director of partnership marketing for Lucas Oil Products. “We share Kyle’s passion for short track racing and are excited to help Brexton take the next step in his career. We’ve seen first-hand the benefits of our partnership, especially as it relates to technology transfer over to short track racers and everyday consumers. We’re proud to continue to commit our resources in R&D and production, and to highlight our premier oil performance with sponsorship of the No. 8 Chevrolet.”

Lucas Oil has served as the official lubricant of RCR and ECR Engines since 2014 and is the official motor oil of ECR Engines. RCR, ECR and Lucas Oil have gone to NASCAR Victory Lane together more than 20 times since the partnership began. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil has established itself as an industry leader, producing only the best line of lubricants and additives available anywhere.

Busch piloted the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet to victory in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, Calif. The win came in their first race together and was the first victory for Lucas Oil in the NASCAR Cup Series. It was also the first for Busch at RCR and extended his streak of 19 consecutive seasons with at least one victory at NASCAR’s highest level.

“RCR and ECR have benefited greatly from having a lubricants partner with strong roots in racing,” said Torrey Galida, president of RCR. “It was incredibly gratifying to see the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet in Victory Lane. It was a testament to all of the resources, expertise, and hard work the Lucas/ECR team has committed to giving us a huge competitive advantage.”

For more information and all that is going on at RCR, visit www.rcrracing.com.

Lucas Oil’s Role as a Technical and Development Powerhouse in Motorsports at RCR and ECR … Lucas Oil has contributed first-hand to the many on-track successes of one of NASCAR’s legendary race teams since 2014. Lucas Oil’s resources and expertise, including R&D, technical development and support, have provided a competitive on-track advantage that has equated to RCR’s more than 20 trips to Victory Lane over the past decade. All RCR NASCAR Cup and ECR engines rely on the best performance motor oil in NASCAR: a direct result of joint research and development. The same success that Lucas Oil and RCR/ECR have found at the highest levels of motorsports, has been successfully transferred to grassroots racing efforts throughout the country. And all team operations rely on the full line of Lucas Slick Mist appearance products – from metal polish to speed wax and detailers – to keep all types of vehicles looking their best. To learn more about Lucas Oil, visit www. lucasoil.com

Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2024 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Jesse Love (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

TPMS Manufacturers to Host Press Conference on Critical Service Issues during 2023 AAPEX Show

• Press conference at Joe’s Garage (Booth J9034), November 1st, 1:00 – 1:30 PM PST
• Representatives from ATEQ, Bartec TPMS, Continental, Schrader featured
• Press conference highlights “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign
Las Vegas, NV, October 26, 2023 — To help further promote their “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign, the coalition of TPMS Manufacturers, including ATEQ, Bartec TPMS, Continental, and Schrader, are hosting a press conference at the 2023 AAPEX Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event, which will be held at Joe’s Garage (Booth J9034), on November 1st, 2023 from 1:00PM – 1:30PM PST, will feature representatives from each manufacturer speaking on recent TPMS service issues that are severely impacting shops and parts retailers across the country.

The press conference is open to any attendee of the AAPEX Show and will focus on the importance of technicians and shops keeping their TPMS tool software up-to-date. Having updated software is absolutely essential with the introduction of the latest generation of TPMS sensors. By updating their TPMS tool software, technicians can prevent TPMS service issues and avoid unnecessary delays.

“This is a critical issue that is causing headaches for shops and technicians alike and shops are struggling to keep TPMS service profitable, while parts professionals are seeing warranty claims on TPMS sensors that are in perfect working order,” added Anouré Fenstermaker, Marketing Communications Manager, Continental. “The aim of this press conference is to educate the media and service professionals about this persistent concern and provide a platform for them to speak directly with the experts from the manufacturers.”

For more information on the campaign, please visit www.updateyourtpmstools.com.

Meet Bessie, the SEMA Show’s new AI-powered chatbot, designed to answer questions and provide information about the 2023 SEMA Show.

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New SEMA Show AI Chatbot Provides Enhanced Experience
for Attendees

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 26, 2023) – The SEMA Show is providing an AI-powered chatbot for the first time at its 2023 event. This new tool will give Show attendees a valuable digital resource that can provide fast, accurate answers to user questions as the automotive aftermarket industry convenes in Las Vegas Oct. 31-Nov. 3. The chatbot is a collaboration between SEMA and 42Chat.

Nicknamed “Bessie,” the chatbot is part of SEMA’s ongoing commitment to innovate and improve the Show experience. QR codes and direct text numbers will be placed around the Show campus, providing convenient access.

Users can ask Bessie anything about the SEMA Show and receive curated, personal assistance 24 hours a day year-round. The chatbot will also learn as users ask questions, improving its ability to share information as it learns what questions our global community is asking the most.

“We are thrilled to offer a chatbot to more deeply engage our audience,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “This tool aligns perfectly with our mission to empower our members, provide world-class support and advance the automotive aftermarket through constant innovation.”

Bessie is the latest in a series of information aids that help Show attendees maximize their time. Other tools include a free mobile app currently available for download, and the SEMAShow.com website. All three digital tools are available 24/7, putting information at users’ fingertips whenever they need it most.

“The SEMA Show is a critical time for exhibitors and attendees looking to expand their businesses,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “By adding a chatbot to our already impressive array of communication resources, our attendees will be able to make the most of their time at the Show and focus on making the connections that drive growth in the coming year.”

Showgoers can also email semashow@sema.org or call 702-943-3505 with any event or association related questions.

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. To learn more about the 2023 SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org, 909/396-0289.

About 42Chat

42Chat is the leading provider of curated Conversational AI solutions for organizations and events looking to enhance & protect their brand, gain & retain customers, and capture & act on insights. 42Chat has won numerous event industry awards, including the SISO Innovation Battlefield, IMEXpitch, IBTM World Technology Watch, and IAEE Innovative Business Solution. To learn more, visit 42chat.com .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 26, 2023

For media inquiries, contact:

Juan Torres

909-978-6722 | juant@sema.org

The capabilities of the SEMA Garage ADAS Technology Center in Detroit, Mich., will be showcased to attendees at the SEMA Show Oct. 31-Nov. 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (13)

ADAS AND EMISSIONS TESTING FEATURED IN SEMA GARAGE AREA AT SEMA SHOW

-- Expanded Area to Highlight New Product Development and Emissions Technologies Available at SEMA Garage --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 26, 2023) – The SEMA Garage will feature its research and testing capabilities during the 2023 SEMA Show in an expanded area in the upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The 6,600-sq.-ft. feature area will allow the SEMA Garage to host real-time testing demonstrations and live calibrations. Attendees can learn from subject-matter experts, exchange knowledge and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) best practices and gain hands-on experience with ADAS tools and equipment.

The new exhibit's aim is to assist in member education, to improve industry awareness of ADAS systems and their impact on the aftermarket, and to provide marketing and networking opportunities between buyers and sellers. The dedicated space will host a variety of ADAS-related products for examination and review, and live recalibration demonstrations throughout the week will guide attendees through the step-by-step process of integrating ADAS protocols into the workplace.

“The SEMA Garage Area will help Showgoers understand what the SEMA Garages offer and how we can help them bring products to market,” said Mike Mohacsi, SEMA Vice President, Product Development and OEM Relations. “SEMA Garages are on the forefront of research with new ADAS and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards along with EV standards. We are excited to share our research and technology during the SEMA Show.”

Opened last year, SEMA Garage Detroit features a new ADAS Technology Center. Rapid adoption of ADAS features raises new opportunities and challenges for vehicle modifiers. Currently, there is little data available to help anyone modifying an ADAS-equipped vehicle understand the exact degree of risk associated with changes to the vehicle. Ongoing testing and research at the SEMA Garage Detroit ADAS Technology Center seeks to change all that. During the Show, the SEMA Garage Area will perform live calibrations that may be used in the SEMA Garage White Paper on an ADAS-equipped truck.

In the area of emissions compliance, SEMA is dedicated to helping aftermarket manufacturers meet the “reasonable basis” criteria by testing and certifying products so they have the confidence they can legally sell their products. The SEMA Garage team works closely with both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to understand their policies, namely the EPA’s Tampering Policy. As part of that effort, last year the Association launched SEMA Certified-Emissions, a program designed around the guidance of the EPA’s Tampering Policy to help manufacturers bring their products to market. SEMA assists manufacturers gain SEMA Certified-Emissions to sell their products in 49 States, and also helps interested manufacturers in processing their CARB EOs for sale in California. Demonstrations of the tests will be happening in real-time at the Show.

Additionally, the expanded SEMA Garage area will feature three vehicles, and additional Garage technologies like 3D Scanning and 3D Printing available for member companies.

The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place Oct. 31-Nov. 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, 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. The Show is the ultimate business gathering for the multi-billion specialty-automotive industry and is the place to discover the latest products and trends, connect with industry leaders, and network with fellow aftermarket professionals. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.semashow.com or download the official SEMA Show Mobile App.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.sema or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 25, 2023

For media inquiries, contact:

Juan Torres

909-978-6722 | juant@sema.org

RISK AND REWARD TO HIGHLIGHT THE SEMA SHOW KICKOFF BREAKFAST

-- Anstead and Foust Share Story of Pikes Peak Triumph at Industry Gathering, Exemplifying the Creative Journey to Bring New Products to Market for Award Winners --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 25, 2023) – English TV presenter Ant Anstead and American professional racer Tanner Foust will take the stage at the annual SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, Tuesday, Oct. 31, at the Paradise Event Center in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino to recount their odyssey to engineer and build Foust’s Pikes Peak car in only 100 days, securing the win in the Exhibition Class.

Hosted by industry host and emcee Jarod DeAnda, the Kickoff Breakfast is a tradition that takes place hours before the official opening of the Show. Far more than just an awards ceremony, the event unites the aftermarket community to celebrate the achievements of entrepreneurs from across the globe that push boundaries to introduce new products and drive the industry forward.

Anstead, a car builder, designer and artist known for presenting several automotive television shows, and Foust, the American professional racer, stunt driver and TV host, will recount the harrowing journey to defy the odds to do something that has never been achieved before.

“We are so excited to share the passion, process and results that went into building the car that won Pikes Peak, one of the most dangerous races in the world,” said Anstead. “Under scrutiny, intense deadlines, the risk of failure and many twists and turns, we were able to innovate and overcome, much like SEMA members do to bring a product to market.”

The Kickoff celebration will honor 18 New Product Showcase Awards winners and include the announcement of the Manufacturer of the Year, and Channel Partner of the Year.

“The story of Ant Anstead’s and Tanner Foust’s Pikes Peak victory sets the perfect tone to open the 2023 SEMA Show,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “The SEMA Show creates an annual deadline to be ready to introduce new products to the world. So much like Anstead and Foust, the exhibitors at the SEMA Show risk it all to do whatever is necessary to be ready to showcase their best innovations. This event honors this courage and commitment and inspires us all.

The breakfast takes place Tuesday, Oct. 31; doors open at 7 a.m. and the program begins at 7:30 a.m. at the Westgate Paradise Event Center. Tickets to the breakfast are free to all credentialed SEMA Show attendees.

To learn more about the SEMA Show and the SEMA Show Kick-Off Breakfast, visit www.semashow.com, download the official SEMA Show Mobile App or ask the Show chatbot via text at 833-338-3101.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

SEMA Fest, a new two-day festival celebrating motorsports, music and car culture, will be held Nov. 3-4 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds. SEMA Fest will feature two stages with 22 musical acts and motorsports entertainment from Formula DRIFT, Hoonigan, and Nitro Circus.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (14)

SEMA FEST BUILDS PASSION FOR CAR CULTURE

-- Inaugural Festival Celebrates Motorsports, Music and Car Culture --

-- Demos by Formula DRIFT, Hoonigan, and Nitro Circus --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 25, 2023) – SEMA Fest, a new two-day festival celebrating motorsports, music and car culture produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), is coming to the Las Vegas Festival Grounds Nov. 3-4.

In addition to two stages featuring 22 musical acts, SEMA Fest attendees will enjoy a variety of unforgettable motorsports entertainment, including demonstrations from Formula DRIFT, Hoonigan, and Nitro Circus.

“The SEMA Show is about preserving and promoting car culture, and instilling that passion for cars in younger, more entertainment-oriented generations,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “SEMA Fest will help us build new audiences that are passionate about the automotive lifestyle.”

The festival is the natural evolution of the passion for all things automotive exemplified at the SEMA Show. The Association started to further highlight and share that passion with the enthusiast public in 2011 with the SEMA Cruise, which evolved in 2014 with SEMA Ignited, the official Friday night after-party for the SEMA Show. Now, it’s evolving again with this new festival format that celebrates the relationship between motorsports, music, and car culture.

Featured attractions include:

World-class drifting demos by Formula DRIFT teams
Extreme motorsports action by Hoonigan
Freestyle motocross and BMX Big Air show from Nitro Circus
Ride with Us – learn-to-ride motorcycle experience
Consumer marketplace with vendors, craft food, and more
E-Gaming experience and competition by NACL
Two festival stages featuring 22 diverse acts over two days showcasing a wide variety of musical genres
Top performing musical acts aren’t the only attraction at SEMA Fest as the Motorsports activities will also be major headliners of the festival over the course of two days. Performances include:

Formula DRIFT

Formula DRIFT provides a series for the best professional drifters from around the globe to compete against each other. As the first official drifting series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme, attracting drift fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life, and established itself as the global leader for the sport.

“Formula DRIFT has been involved in drift demos at SEMA for many years, and we’re excited to see it taken to the next level at SEMA Fest, combining some of the most exciting motorsports on the planet with some incredible music acts. It’s certainly going to be an unforgettable weekend,” said Formula DRIFT President Ryan Sage.

Formula DRIFT will have the following drivers smoking tires at SEMA Fest: Rome Charpentier, Forrest Wang, Daniel Stuke, Jeff Jones, Trent Beechum, Blake Olsen, Kasey Kohl and Richard Advani.

Hoonigan

Hoonigan is not only bringing the Burnyard back to the SEMA Show, but they will also be throwing down exclusive live Hoonigan shows at SEMA Fest. Don’t miss the high-adrenaline mix of burning rubber, flying trucks, speeding cars, and breathtaking motorsports action--all headlined by Lia Block and Travis Pastrana. Get ready for a week of tire slaying mayhem with the Hoonigan team.

Nitro Circus

Nitro Circus is bringing its action-packed Freestyle Motocross (FMX) and Bicycle Motocross (BMX) Big Air show featuring stunts and tricks that push riders to their limits to SEMA Fest. Riders performing at SEMA Fest include FMX riders Adam Jones, Jarryd McNeil, Beau Bamburg, Javier Villegas, Keith Sayers, and James Carter; and BMX riders Ryan Williams (BMX and Scooter), Aaron Wheelz Fotheringham (Wheelchair), Andy Buckworth, Kurtis Downs, Casey Ervin and Jared Wiedhour.

SEMA Fest will be held Nov. 3-4, 2023, at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds, an outdoor venue located along the famed Las Vegas Strip on the southwest corner of Sahara Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.semafest.com .

About SEMA Fest

SEMA Fest is an exciting two-day festival celebrating car culture and all things automotive. The event taps into iconic names and brands to create the ultimate automotive playground, filled with cars, trucks, demonstrations, world class music, food and vendors. Featuring two stages with 22 different musical acts over two days--including Imagine Dragons, Incubus, Wiz Khalifa, AJR, Third Eye Blind, and Bush-attendees of all ages will be able to see a variety of unforgettable, hi-octane motorsports entertainment, including demonstrations from Formula DRIFT, Hoonigan, and Nitro Circus. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.semafest.com.

Political analyst and host Margaret Hoover will lead a discussion panel with industry leaders on the Future of Automotive Fuel Technology during the 2023 SEMA Show.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 19, 2023

For media inquiries, contact:

Juan Torres

909-978-6722 | juant@sema.org

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (15)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (16)

MARGARET HOOVER TO MODERATE SEMA SHOW
DISCUSSION WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS ON FUTURE OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 19, 2023) – The 2023 SEMA Show, the world’s leading automotive trade show taking place October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, will feature a discussion with experts and thought leaders on the future of alternative fuels technology.

The Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panel will take place Thursday, November 2, in the North Hall (Room N258) beginning at 3 pm.

Attendees can engage with a panel of global industry leaders, subject-matter experts and thought leaders as they discuss the application, benefits, integration, and practical and scalable solutions that can accelerate decarbonization through alternative fuel technologies.

The panel will cover multiple aspects of alternative fuels, including the definition of alternative fuels and manufacturing processes; the application of alternative fuels in the automotive industry; emerging technologies and decarbonization targets; and the infrastructure and policies needed for mass adaptation.

“SEMA’s approach to future propulsion is technology neutral,” said Luis Morales, SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology. “We have members that are at the forefront of advanced technology systems, including hydrogen, biofuels, synthetics and EV. This panel will help attendees understand what’s happening in the industry and how the industry is already pushing the creative envelope in alternative fuel technology.”

To help drive this innovative spirit, this year’s SEMA Show will include an immersive and interactive exhibit, the FutureTech Studio, featuring parts and equipment that cater to new technology, including EVs, as well as vehicles that will showcase how these are employed.

The panel will be moderated by Margaret Hoover, political analyst, CNN contributor and host of the PBS program “Firing Line with Margaret Hoover,” a public affairs, multi-platform program that engages in long-form interviews and a rigorous exchange of ideas with the guiding principle that civil discourse is a civic responsibility.

“Alternative fuels is one of the most important topics in our industry and will play a significant role in the future of mobility around the globe,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA Director of Education. “We’re pleased to have a journalist of Margaret Hoover’s stature and expertise to guide a thought-provoking discussion with many of the leaders in the field.”

Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panelists include:

Michael Boe, Vice President and General Manager, Global Aftermarket, BorgWarner Emission, Thermal and Turbo Systems. Boe is part of BorgWarner’s Sustainability Committee, which shapes BorgWarner’s ongoing focus for carbon neutrality.
Elaina Farnsworth, co-founder and CEO, SkillFusion. Farnsworth is focused on growing a certified talent pool to operate and maintain electric vehicle chargers and facilitate the growth of the charging network across the country.
Tuomo Isokivijärvi, Chief Executive Officer, StepOne Tech Ltd. Isokivijärvi is an impact enthusiast who believes in solving climate change through technology, and co-founder at eFlexFuel – a technology that can upgrade more than a billion vehicles globally from using fossil fuels to biofuels.
Indresh Mathur, PhD, Director, Innovations and Customer Solutions, Monument Renewables & Fuels. Mathur has been a researcher in the specialty chemicals and fuels space for 48 years and was recently appointed Director of the newly formed Monument Renewables & Fuels business.
Zachary Santner, Manager, Product Engineering – Performance Products, Sunoco LP. In his role, Santner provides high octane specialty fuels to the largest racing series as well the enthusiast market. A chemical engineer, Santner aspires to educate others about properly deploying performance fuels to solve complex fuel challenges.
James Williamson, Executive Regional Business Manager, Emissions Systems, AVL. Williamson has over 20 years of experience in product development, execution and business development for exhaust emission measurement systems.
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.

“SEMA Show Education Programs provide best-in-class professional development and engage attendees with industry-relevant topics,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “Sessions like the Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panel and many others keep our members on the cutting edge of industry trends and give them a competitive edge in a very dynamic marketplace.”

The Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panel is free for all 2023 SEMA Show attendees. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , 909/396-0289.

Legendary racecar driver Willy T. Ribbs will share his story of triumph and overcoming adversity during a special Fireside Chat with moderator Beth Paretta at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 17, 2023

For media inquiries, contact:

Juan Torres

909-978-6722 | juant@sema.org

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (17)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (18)

RACING LEGEND WILLY T. RIBBS TO SHARE INSPIRING STORY AT SEMA SHOW

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 17, 2023) – Legendary African American racecar driver Willy T. Ribbs will share his story of triumph and overcoming adversity during a special Fireside Chat with moderator Beth Paretta of Paretta Autosport at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev.

The Fireside Chat will take place Thursday, Nov. 2, in the North Hall (Room N258) beginning at 11 am. The event is part of a comprehensive SEMA Show Education program that focuses on leadership and year-round skill development.

Ribbs, “The Man. The Myth. The Legend,” will share his incredible life story as a pioneer in motorsports, shattering barriers and paving the way for generations of racecar drivers.

“The most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is to never quit on yourself, because the only person who’s going to beat you is you,” said Ribbs. “That’s a lesson that applies in life as well as on the racetrack, and I’m looking forward to sharing that with SEMA Show attendees.”

Ribbs has defied barriers and made history at every step in his motorsports career. Behind the wheel, he’s competed in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, the IndyCar Series and the IMSA GT Championship. He is the first African American to qualify for the Indianapolis 500, win a major professional race in the United States and to drive a Formula One racecar.

Born in northern California, Ribbs became interested in racing at 9 years old watching his father, William “Bunny” Ribbs Sr., a plumbing contractor and amateur sportscar racer, and serving on his race team. After moving to Europe to compete in 1977, at 22, Ribbs won the Dunlop/Autosport Star of Tomorrow FF1600 in his first year of competition, winning six races in 11 starts.

His many on-track accomplishments include the 1977 Dunlop Formula Ford championship; 1982 Long Beach Formula Atlantic pole winner; 1987-’88 International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) Driver of the Year; and 2021 inductee into the Long Beach Grand Prix Hall of Fame.

Beyond the track, in 2020 Ribbs was featured in the documentary, “UPPITY: The Willy T. Ribbs Story,” currently airing on Amazon Prime Video. In 2022 he was named Formula One Ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion.

“Willy T. Ribbs has changed the landscape of motorsports,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA Director of Education. “His personal story of resolve, to never quit or allow yourself to be defeated, will certainly resonate with our members as they look to successfully navigate challenges in the industry.”

Ribbs will be joined onstage by moderator Beth Paretta, CEO and team principal at Paretta Autosport, the first woman-owned, woman-driven and woman-forward team in IndyCar history.

The 2023 SEMA Show Education Program includes 99 learning sessions, including six highly focused SEMA Education tracks, the Dale Carnegie Leadership Essentials program, a Women in Automotive Symposium, an on-site electric vehicle (EV) certification program and many others.

“The breadth of education programs offered at the SEMA Show ensures there’s something for everyone in attendance,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “The SEMA Show Main Stage Speakers provide a compelling mix of personal development and business intelligence that make it one of the many ‘can’t-miss’ features of the Show.”

The Fireside Chat is free for all 2023 SEMA Show attendees. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.semashow.com

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lucas Oil Corporate Communications

310-374-6177

LucasOil@GoDriven360.com

Lucas Oil and Dealer Advantage Group Announce Partnership and Two New Branded F&I Programs for Auto, Marine, Powersport and RV Dealerships

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (19)

INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 2, 2023) – Lucas Oil, the world leader and distributor of high-performance automotive additives and lubricants, announced a new partnership with Dealer Advantage Group to offer two new exclusive Lucas Oil-branded Finance & Insurance (F&I) programs to dealerships.

The Lucas Oil Paint & Interior Program and Lucas Oil Engine for Life Program, available to all automotive, powersport, RV, and marine dealerships in the United States and Canada, give dealers the ability to provide premium exterior, interior and engine protection to their customers at the point of purchase and in service departments. These exclusive programs are only available through the Dealer Advantage Group, which also offers a wide variety of other services to new and used dealers including sales training, warranty programs, vehicle service contracts and more.

“Today’s dealers want the ability to provide premium protection options from brands they know and trust which is why we are thrilled the Dealership Advantage Group is now offering these world-class Lucas Oil products to dealers through these programs,” said Morgan Lucas, President of Lucas Oil. “We have been looking for a way to introduce new vehicle owners to our products which is why we chose to partner with Dealer Advantage Group. They have a deep understanding of the F&I process and are experts at creating customized programs helping dealerships provide the best products and services to their customers.”

Lucas Oil F&I Programs – Premium Protection from a Trusted Brand

Lucas Oil Paint and Interior Program

Easy-to-apply exterior ceramic spray-on coating
Interior protection includes rips, tears, and burn coverage
Rental car is included when a repair or repaint is needed
No ineligible vehicles
Coverage available from 1-10 years
Zero deductible to the customer
Lucas Oil Engine for Life program

Program can be sold or provided at no charge
Available in the sales department, F&I, service department, and after time-of-sale
24/7 rental and roadside assistance included
Eligibility includes vehicles up to 8 years old with 85,000 miles and virtually all makes and models
Zero deductible to the customer at the issuing dealer
Lucas Oil Heavy Duty Stabilizer needed only every 10,000 miles
Marketed as a true retention program designed to continue use for lifetime of vehicle ownership
“We are proud to partner with Lucas Oil,” said BJ Jamison, Vice President of Operations at Dealer Advantage Group. “Their team has provided tremendous support throughout this process, and they have been committed to demanding the best coverage with the most profitable offerings for the dealer community. Additionally, offering to co-brand with our dealer partners provides the consumer the utmost confidence in these programs because of the power of the Lucas Oil name.”

These programs are now available through Dealer Advantage Group, which is also offering them through partnerships with select F&I agencies. More information can be found at www.DealerAdvantageGroup.com

For more information, or to schedule an interview with Lucas Oil and Dealer Advantage Group, contact LucasOil@godriven360.com.

About Lucas Oil

Founded in 1989 by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas, Lucas Oil Products was created with the simple philosophy of producing the best lubricants and additives available anywhere. Lucas Oil offers the most diversified range of innovative engine oil, gear oil and additive products refined by years of specialized research, development and testing. The company’s high performance engine oils and gear oils are widely recognized as best-in-class in the automotive, powersports, marine, industrial, outdoor, and motorsports marketplaces. In total, Lucas Oil boasts more than 300 premium products, representing the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries.

Lucas Oil’s commitment to motorsports includes long standing support for high profile regional and national racing series, and the distribution of exclusive motorsports content from across the globe via MAVTV, a Lucas Oil owned and operated television network. The company also serves as the exclusive oil and lubricant partner of Monster Jam®, The Dallas Cowboys, the Indianapolis Colts and Lucas Oil Stadium. For more information please visit www.LucasOil.com .

Single-day tickets for SEMA Fest, a full-throttle festival that fuses motorsports, music, and car culture, are now available at www.semafest.com.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (20)

SINGLE-DAY SEMA FEST TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

-- The inaugural festival celebrating motorsports, music, and car culture will be held November 3-4 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds.

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept. 28, 2023) – Single-day tickets for SEMA Fest, a full-throttle festival that fuses motorsports, music, and car culture, are now available at www.semafest.com. Taking place November 3-4 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds, SEMA Fest is hosted by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, the world’s leading automotive trade show held annually in Las Vegas.

SEMA Fest brings together some of the biggest names in music across the gamut of rock, hip-hop, and pop and the hottest automotive brands and their enthusiasts in a large-scale festival format. In addition to the world-class music programming, the event will feature a full slate of immersive automotive lifestyle events, a consumer marketplace, world-class drifting, motorsports competitions, freestyle motocross, BMX demos, and more.

“The SEMA Show and SEMA Fest are two separate events that help maintain the integrity of the SEMA Show that makes it a must-attend event for automotive professionals,” said SEMA President & CEO Mike Spagnola. “SEMA Fest enables automotive enthusiasts and music fans to be a part of the SEMA Show experience through a one-of-a-kind festival that promotes the automotive lifestyle.”

The daily SEMA Fest musical lineup:

Friday, November 3

• Incubus

• Wiz Khalifa

• Third Eye Blind

• Bush

• Ludacris

• Chase Matthew

• Rome & Duddy

• Ayron Jones

• Bones UK

• Starcrawler

• Paper Idol

Saturday, November 4

• Imagine Dragons

• AJR

• Walk The Moon

• The Struts

• Badflower

• Meg Meyers

• Dead Sara

• renforshort

• Brooke Alex

• Hot Crazy

• Good Boy Daisy

• The Foxies

SEMA Fest is open to the public and is part of SEMA Week, which kicks off with the 2023 SEMA Show on October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For more information, visit www.semafest.com or www.sema.org.

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $51.8 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org , or www.performanceracing.com

The new SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium offers professional development programs geared toward helping women in the automotive aftermarket.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (21)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (22)

INAUGURAL SEMA SHOW PROGRAM TO EMPOWER WOMEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

The new SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium offers professional development programs geared toward helping women in the automotive aftermarket.

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept 27, 2023) -- The 2023 SEMA Show, the world’s leading automotive trade show taking place October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, will feature a new program designed to help women advance their careers in the automotive aftermarket. The inaugural SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium will provide networking, mentoring, and professional development opportunities that will give attendees invaluable new tools and essential skills.

With the support of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), this new program will include an inspiring opening keynote, a power networking luncheon and fireside chat, a four-part micro-learning workshop segment, and a discussion panel delivered by iconic industry executives and thought leaders. It will be a one-of-a-kind opportunity for women in the automotive industry to come together and learn from each other’s experiences.

“This year’s SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium is lining up to be a groundbreaking opportunity to prepare women for addressing challenges and overcoming adversity,” said Pamela Brown Matthis, SEMA Director of Education. “The ultimate goal of this program is to help women elevate, empower, and engage themselves with the tools for success needed to accelerate and advance their business and career.”

The 2023 SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium will take place Wednesday, November 1, in the North Hall (Room N258) beginning at 11:00 a.m.:

• 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m. — Opening Keynote: "Drive: How to Gain and Maintain a Competitive Advantage"

Featuring Julia Landauer (two-time race champion and entrepreneur)

• 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. — Power Networking Luncheon & Fireside Chat

Hosted by Amanda Busick (FOX Sports reporter) and featuring Carolyn Jackson (Vice President-Brand Strategy, Barrett-Jackson).

• 1:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m. — Micro-Learning Lab (15-minute, rapid-fire-style workshops)

Featuring Melanie White (CEO and Owner, Hellwig Products), Jacki Lutz (Senior Manager of Marketing Communications-Corporate, Sensata Technologies), Deanna Singh (Managing Partner, Uplifting Impact), and Shaundra Dineen (award-winning motivational speaker and podcaster).

• 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. — Panel: "Driving the Future of Automotive: C-Suite Insights"

Co-hosted by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and moderated by Cheryl Thompson (President/Founder, Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement) and featuring Axel Cooley (President, Metallon), Kim Less (Vice President-Aftersales, Nissan North America), Subi Ghosh (EVP-Marketing & Strategic Partnerships, Stream Companies), Matilda Johnson (Director of Business Development & Chief Experience Officer, City Classic Cars), and Jayme Blasiman (Founder of Femcanic Garage and Founder/Co-Owner of Women's Motor Fest).

“The SEMA Show is the only place where women in the automotive aftermarket can take part in such an exciting and empowering experience, taught by industry thought leaders and experts from all facets of the industry,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “This great lineup of speakers, panels, and workshops will help attendees be more competitive and knowledgeable about how to succeed in the industry.”

The SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium is free for all 2023 SEMA Show attendees. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.sema.org , .

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.sema.org , www.semashow.com 909/396-0289.

IndyCar legend Tony Kanaan will kick off the 2023 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show at the annual Grand Opening Breakfast Thursday, December 7, in Indianapolis.

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Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (23)Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (24)
IndyCar Legend Tony Kanaan to Kick Off 2023 PRI Show in Indianapolis
ALISO VIEJO, Calif. (Sept. 19, 2023) -- Racing icon Tony Kanaan will welcome attendees to the biggest three days in motorsports business as the headline guest at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show’s annual Grand Opening Breakfast on December 7 in Indianapolis.
An annual tradition for thousands of motorsports professionals from all over the world, the breakfast takes place the morning of the first day of the PRI Show and symbolizes the official start of the three-day event.
“It’s always special to welcome an Indy 500 winner to the PRI Show,” said PRI Trade Show Director Karin Davidson. “Not only is Tony a champion on the track, but he’s also a favorite of race fans all over the country, and we’re excited to have him kick off this year’s PRI Show.”
Joined onstage by veteran commentator and announcer Ralph Sheheen, the two will engage in a free-flowing, fun-informative conversation that is sure to be filled with stories from Kanaan’s race-winning career.
Kanaan is an open wheel racing icon with a celebrated 25-year career. Since his debut in 1998, a season in which he won CART Rookie of the Year, Kanaan has captured 17 wins, one IndyCar Series championship, 15 poles and 134 top five finishes.
In 23 career starts in the Indianapolis 500, Kanaan has led a total of 367 laps, including laps in his first seven “500s.” His Indy 500 victory came in 2013, his 12th start at the Brickyard.
Kanaan is IndyCar’s iron man with 389 starts – second only to Mario Andretti – including 318 consecutive starts, a series record. During his 2004 IndyCar Series title winning season, Kanaan became the first IndyCar driver to complete every lap of every race.
He’s won championships in multiple series and events, including Indy Lights, IndyCar, 12 Hours at Sebring (LMP2) and Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona.
Doors to the Grand Opening Breakfast open at 7 a.m., and the program begins at 7:45 a.m. The breakfast is free to all PRI attendees, but guests are advised to arrive early as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The 2023 PRI Show takes place December 7-9 at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis. The Show floor opens immediately after the breakfast and will feature more than 1,000 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, machinery, simulation and testing technologies, and trailers for the racing industry in a single location. PRI encompasses all forms of motorsports and attracts attendees from all 50 states and all over the world, including professional race teams, retail shops, warehouse distributors, engine builders, fabricators, dealers, installers, jobbers and media. To register, visit PRI2023.com/Attend.
About Performance Racing Industry
Since its inception in 1986, Performance Racing Industry (PRI) has fueled the passion for motorsports by building, promoting, and protecting the worldwide racing community. PRI unites the motorsports industry through a membership program that provides market research, education, and legislative action and advocacy. PRI’s monthly business magazine, Performance Racing Industry, and world premier auto racing trade show, the PRI Show in Indianapolis, Ind., are the racing industry's key source for new technology and trends. For more information, visit PerformanceRacing.com.

The SEMA FutureTech Studio will be part of the new EV & Future Propulsion section that evolved from the popular SEMA Electrified exhibit at recent SEMA Shows.

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Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (26)
NEW SEMA SHOW EXHIBIT TO HIGHLIGHT FUTURE VEHICLE PROPULSION TECHNOLOGY
-- The SEMA FutureTech Studio, located in the new EV & Future Propulsion section, will give SEMA Show attendees an in-depth look into emerging technologies --
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept. 20, 2023) – The SEMA FutureTech Studio, a new exhibit at the 2023 SEMA Show, will give attendees at the world’s leading automotive trade show an opportunity to learn about what the future of vehicle propulsion may look like. Located in Central Hall, the SEMA FutureTech Studio will be part of the new EV & Future Propulsion section that evolved from the popular SEMA Electrified exhibit at recent SEMA Shows.
“The automotive aftermarket has always been at the forefront of vehicle innovation and technology, and this new section will help showcase how our industry is leading the way in the creation of new engine and fuel options,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “The FutureTech Studio is a visionary space designed to inspire and support innovation across all segments and vehicles.”
Through various spotlights and showcases, the new immersive Show environment will feature parts and equipment that cater to the new technology, as well as vehicles that will highlight how these are employed. The exhibit will also include a SEMA Education stage, named FutureTech LIVE, where industry leaders will discuss different propulsion technology, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other advancements in technology.
Additionally, the new EV & Future Propulsion area will include more than 15 exhibitor booths showcasing parts and tools that cater to this emerging technology, and over 75 vehicles will help highlight the future of automotive innovation.
“The FutureTech Studio will help attendees understand what’s happening in the industry and how the industry is already pushing the creative envelope with new innovations, parts, and services,” said Luis Morales, SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology. “The EV & Future Propulsion section embodies our commitment to featuring the latest and future trends at the SEMA Show, and it is a testament to SEMA’s dedication to helping the community remain at the forefront of technological advancements.”
The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the multi-billion specialty-automotive industry and is the place to discover the latest products and trends, connect with industry leaders, and network with fellow aftermarket professionals. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.semashow.com.
About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , 909/396-0289.

The new SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award will recognize a featured vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show that showcases exceptional engineering.

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SEMA LAUNCHES NEW INDUSTRY AWARD FOR BEST ENGINEERED VEHICLE OF THE YEAR

-- The award will recognize a featured vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show that showcases exceptional engineering --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept. 18, 2023) – 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.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , 909/396-0289.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (28)

Iola Car Show Issues Volunteer Organization Checks

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The Iola Car Show presents a check to the local Iola-Scandinavia School District totaling $30,497.43. Volunteers donated to 17 different school organizations.
Iola, WI
September 7th, 2023

The Iola Car Show office announced this week that it received approval from its Board of Directors to proceed with payments to the Ancillary and Member Organizations who supported this year’s event.

“We’re very excited to share that the board approved significant increases in the payments made to both our member and ancillary volunteer groups,” said Executive Director Joe Opperman. “Those increases mean we’re issuing $70,000.00 more than we would have been able to just two years ago for the same amount of work. We’ve been blessed by three consecutive shows of wonderful weather following the 2020 cancellation, and we’re thrilled that the business is able to support this level of community giving. This year’s volunteer organization payments represent the highest amount we’ve been able to issue in decades.”

According to Opperman, the organization expects to issue more than $275,000.00 to 122 volunteer organizations following the 2023 event. That brings the running total to more than $9.2 Million since it’s 501(c)(3) incorporation in the mid ‘80s.

When asked to comment on the extraordinary results, Opperman states, “The car show event is truly a national treasure. It’s a testament to the hard work, resilience and forward-thinking of a great number of people working together as a team. We have a tremendous board of directors who recognize the importance of this operation, a staff that is incredibly passionate about what they do, and a volunteer force with a mid-western work ethic and attitude that is second to none. The local community, business partners and extended “car show community” all contribute to making this a premiere event people want to be a part of, and the fruits of all those combined efforts equate to a tremendous outpouring of economic support that helps to sustain and improve our communities. It is impossible to put into words just how special this all is. What we do here is magic, and we do it together. Everyone involved should be so proud of the impact we have on others.”

Iola Car Show

Registration for the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders is now open at www.semabotb.com. The program is celebrating 10 years of providing SEMA Show builders a platform to showcase their craftsmanship to a worldwide audience.

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SEMA BATTLE OF THE BUILDERS CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF PROVIDING BUILDERS A GLOBAL PLATFORM TO SHOWCASE THEIR SKILLS

-- SEMA Show builders can register now for the industry's leading vehicle competition --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (July 20, 2023) – Registration for the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders, the aftermarket industry's ultimate vehicle competition, is now open at www.semabotb.com. The program is celebrating 10 years of providing SEMA Show builders a platform to showcase their craftsmanship and skills to a worldwide audience.

“The SEMA Show is synonymous with the most unique vehicles in the world, and for 10 years the Battle of the Builders program has given the builders of these vehicles an opportunity to showcase their imagination, creativity, and craftsmanship at an international level,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA vice president of marketing. "This year’s program will feature the top builders and brands exhibiting at the 2023 SEMA Show as we crown our 10th Battle of the Builders Champion.”

Since 2014, Battle of the Builders has catapulted SEMA Show builders to fame through exposure in SEMA’s communication and social channels and inclusion in a one-hour television special. The competition recognizes one winner in four different categories -- Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and Young Guns -- before crowning and overall Battle of the Builders Champion.

The Young Guns category, open to builders 29 years and younger, is part of SEMA’s initiative to support and encourage the next generation of builders in the industry. All Young Guns entries submitted before August 15 have the opportunity to compete in one or more virtual Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a prize package that includes transportation of the vehicle to the SEMA Show.

"The SEMA Young Guns competition was the single-most powerful tool for me to turn my passion for building cars into a full-time career,” said Kyle Kuhnhausen, winner of the 2018 Young Guns title and current Battle of the Builders judge. “The media coverage that followed after winning the category took me from a relatively unknown young builder to self-employment building hot rods full time just months later. I'm still building hot rods, and the phone is still ringing as I continue feeling the benefits of the competition and now get to judge that category."

The 2023 SEMA Show (www.semashow.com), taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty equipment industry. It is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business contacts, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers from good to great. Participation in the SEMA Show is easy, affordable, and provides the greatest return on investment.

“SEMA remains committed to showcasing the hard work and stories behind the amazing builds that are displayed every year at the SEMA Show,” added de Vera. “From established builders to the next generation of modifiers, the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition will reflect the broad range of vehicles and talent in the industry.”

For more information on the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition or to register, visit www.semabotb.com

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at ,For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , or www.performanceracing.com . 909/396-0289.

Tickets for the inaugural SEMA Fest, held November 3-4 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds, are on sale now at www.semafest.com. The two-day festival celebrating motorsports, music and car culture is open to the public.

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Tickets on Sale Now for Inaugural SEMA Fest

The two-day festival celebrating motorsports, music and car culture is open to the public and will be held November 3-4 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (July 14, 2023) – Tickets for the inaugural SEMA Fest, a two-day full-throttle festival that fuses car culture and music, are on sale now at www.semafest.com. Held November 3-4 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds in Las Vegas, Nevada, SEMA Fest is a must-attend event open to the public and featuring world-class musical acts Imagine Dragons, Incubus, Wiz Khalifa, AJR, Third Eye Blind, Bush, Walk The Moon and more.

“We are excited to open the gates for the inaugural SEMA Fest and welcome car and music lovers alike to enjoy this one-of-a-kind festival,” said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. “Automotive enthusiasts the world over have been asking for years how they can be part of the SEMA Show experience, and we are delighted to include them in this brand-new extension of our popular trade show. This new event will be separate from the trade show, open to everyone and promises to be like nothing they’ve seen before.”

SEMA Fest brings together automotive enthusiasts, the biggest names in music and the hottest automotive brands in a large-scale festival format. It will also feature a full slate of immersive automotive lifestyle events, a consumer marketplace, world-class drifting, motorsports competitions, freestyle motocross and more. Whether you are 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. More details will be announced soon, including a full concert lineup of more than 20 bands.

SEMA Fest is hosted by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, a massive trade-only event held annually in Las Vegas. 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.

For more information about SEMA Fest and to purchase tickets, visit www.semafest.com .

###

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $51.8 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , or www.performanceracing.com .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

51st Annual Iola Car Show Celebrates “Unforgettable Fifties” with Celebrities, Influencers, and Industry Icons
Small town, big impact sees largest event yet with inaugural youth program
honoring the past and bridging to the future

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IOLA, WI, July 6, 2023 – The Iola Car Show is hosting its 51st annual event from July 6 through 8, 2023. The largest car show and swap meet in the country, over 2,500 show cars are on display along with over 4,000 swap meet spaces. Celebrating the theme of Unforgettable Fifties, special guests include Jerry Mathers of “Leave it to Beaver”, Derek Bieri of Vice Grip Garage, Emily Reeves of Flying Sparks Garage, and “Grave Digger” monster truck creator Dennis Anderson.

“We are so excited to be at the Iola Car Show this year! It is an important and historic national event, and will be a wonderful opportunity to meet and interact with our fans in the Midwest," said Jerry Mathers.

The Iola Car Show is a whole community, volunteer-driven event. With a population of 1,236, residents of the Village of Iola and beyond come together each year to host over 120,000 attendees. Proceeds provide direct benefit to over 130 local community organizations whose members volunteer their time to make the event possible.

Family-friendly programming features Pre-War to Late Model show cars, themed buildings honoring automotive history, sprawling campgrounds, live entertainment, and interactive activities. Derek and the team from Vice Grip Garage will conduct a live 3-day build of a 1968 Firebird, shopping the swap meet to hunt for needed parts. The 6th Annual Miss Iola Pinup Contest has become the premier event of its kind in the Midwest, nestled between musical performances on the Tundraland Stage.

Additional industry icons in attendance include Jo Coddington, Butch Patrick, Von Hot Rod, Greg and Leah Stelse of Greg’s Speed Shop, Bill “Elvis” Stull, and Ali from Iola.

Event sponsors include USMA - Ebay Motors, Pepsi, Anheuser-Busch, Ford Motor Company, Toys for Trucks, Greg’s Speed Shop, Wisconsin Chevy Super Dealers, Volkswagen, Ford, Bring a Trailer, American Collectors Insurance, Ho-Chunk Gaming, BankFirst, Garage Experts of Fox Valley, Time Passages, and Community Insurance.

Volunteerism across the country continues to decline. According to a 2023 report by the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps, less than 25% of Americans aged 16 and above volunteered for an organization or association from September 2020 to 2021. That is down from 30% in 2019 and from 27.6% 20 years earlier when the survey began.

A model to revive small towns for big impact: The Iola Car Show aims to bridge the gap toward stronger civic engagement with volunteer and sponsorship opportunities that connect communities through a shared love of cars. Since incorporating as a nonprofit in the 1980s, over $9 million has been raised to date to support local organizations, and $30 million is generated annually in direct economic impact for the Central Wisconsin region.

Engaging youth remains critical as the classic car community continues to age. This year’s first-ever youth program was initiated and is being led by Hayden Nelson, a student at University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. The schedule includes a scavenger hunt and wayfinding exercise, “Foundry in a Box”, and more.

“There is a very strong tradition of volunteerism related to this organization, with more than 2,000 volunteers from in and around our community coming together to assist with the event. Their efforts have significant social and financial impacts on the more than 130 different organizations they represent. Our metrics leading into the show indicate this is going to be the biggest we’ve ever hosted, as we continue to honor the past and focus on evolving the Show for future generations,” said Joe Opperman, Executive Director of the Iola Car Show.

About the Iola Car Show: In 1972, author and publisher Chet Krause invited several local collector car enthusiasts to attend the Iola Lions Club Chicken Roast fundraiser as his guests. Twenty arrived with their classic cars, which quickly became a yearly tradition. The Iola Car Show is now the largest classic car show and swap meet in the country. The Show leverages the power of vehicles to create memories and transform lives. Proceeds each year provide direct benefit to over 130 local community organizations whose members volunteer their time to make the event possible. For more information, follow us on social media @IolaCarShow or visit www.iolaoldcarshow.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 06, 2023

Tickets for the 2023 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala, to honor this year’s Hall of Fame members and fellow industry leaders, are now available at www.sema.org/gala.

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INDUSTRY LEADERS AND LEGENDS TO BE HONORED AT PRESTIGIOUS CELEBRATION

-- Hall of Fame members Steve Ames, John Iannotte, and Mitch Williams are among the industry icons who will be recognized at the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (July 6, 2023) – Tickets for the 2023 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala, to honor this year’s Hall of Fame members and fellow industry leaders, are now available at www.sema.org/gala. The prestigious annual celebration is open to the industry and will be held Friday, July 21, at the Anaheim Marriot in Anaheim, Calif.

"The SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala is among our association's most iconic events,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “As the event's name implies, the Gala honors excellence and achievement, especially as embodied in our SEMA Hall of Fame inductees."

Formerly known as the SEMA Awards Gala, the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala will honor incoming and outgoing members of the SEMA Board of Directors, industry leaders and volunteers, and 2023 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees Steve Ames, John Iannotte, and Mitch Williams.

The SEMA Cares Pinewood Drags, a cherished Gala tradition, will run in conjunction with the Gala, offering industry participants opportunities to sponsor a child-built pinewood racecar or challenge industry colleagues in head-to-head competition. The races, which are run throughout the Friday reception and into the evening, support SEMA Cares, a group that unites the automotive aftermarket to raise funds for various charities, including the Austin Hatcher Foundation, Childhelp, and Victory Junction.

“It’s a great opportunity to come together mid-year and recognize those who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry,” said Spagnola. “I’m looking forward to celebrating with friends and colleagues.”

For more information and to secure a seat or table at the exclusive event, visit www.sema.org/gala . For more information about SEMA Cares or to sponsor a SEMA Pinewood Drags race car, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $51.8 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.semashow.com  or www.sema.org , or www.performanceracing.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 05, 2023

World-renowned athlete, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Tim Tebow will be a keynote speaker at the 2023 SEMA Show, Oct. 31-Nov. 3 in Las Vegas, as part of this year's comprehensive education program.

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BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, STAR ATHLETE TIM TEBOW HIGHLIGHTS

SEMA SHOW MAIN STAGE EXPERIENCE

-- Tebow’s keynote is part of a robust education program that is available to all SEMA Show attendees --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (July 5, 2023) -- World-renowned athlete, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Tim Tebow will share his mission-possible life message with attendees at the 2023 SEMA Show as part of the trade-only event's professional-development experience. Taking place Oct. 31-Nov. 3 in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show will highlight Tebow as a keynote speaker on the SEMA Show Main Stage, a new program that will feature iconic personalities in the automotive industry, thought leaders, and entertainers sharing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas and strategies.

“I’m looking forward to helping SEMA Show attendees find their mission and create a life that counts,” said Tebow. “I hope my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned first-hand will inspire them to live a purposeful life that helps them succeed personally and professionally.”

Tebow’s keynote address will take place at 1 p.m. on November 2 in the West Hall. His speech is part of a comprehensive SEMA Show Education program that focuses on leadership and year-round skill development.

“We’re really excited about bringing Tim Tebow to our Main Stage Experience as a subject-matter expert who has the knowledge and ability to inspire change,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA Director of Education. “His ideas will elevate and strengthen an attendee’s business strategy because he’s a very strong entrepreneur himself. His multigenerational message is going to resonate with all attendees.”

In addition to globally recognized speakers and industry leaders on the Main Stage, the 2023 SEMA Show Education Program will include 99 learning sessions that begin the Monday before the official start of the Show, six highly focused SEMA Education tracks, the Dale Carnegie Leadership Essentials program, a Women in Automotive Symposium, and an on-site electric vehicle (EV) certification program. Access to most education programs is included as a benefit to registration.

“The SEMA Show is the only place where aftermarket professionals can discover new products and trends, make new business contacts, and take their careers and businesses from good to great in one location,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “We are committed to ensuring that participation in the SEMA Show is easy, affordable, and provides the greatest return on investment.”

To learn more or to register to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com</a

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at  www.semashow.com  or www.sema.org 909/396-0289.

On behalf of Purolator filters, I am excited to share their annual summer rebate program running through August 31, 2023. Please feel free to share this with your audiences.

Between July 1 and August 31, 2023, consumers can receive up to $15* through a national rebate promotion on qualifying oil, air, and cabin air filters under the Purolator, PurolatorTECHTM, PurolatorBOSS® and PurolatorONETM brand

Hit the Open Road This Summer with Confidence – and Savings – through Rebate on Purolator Filters

Raleigh, N.C. – July 1, 2023 – As analysts predict a substantial increase in road trips this summer, Purolator Filters (a division of MANN+HUMMEL―the leading global expert in filtration) is stepping up to help motorists save money on select Purolator filters.

Consumers can easily identify retailers and vehicle service shops through posters and other point-of-sale materials at participating locations. Rebate forms and additional information on the promotion are available at purolatornow.com/en/offers/save-up-to-fifteen-dollars.

“At Purolator, we’re commemorating our 100th year as a leader in vehicle filter technologies,” said Daryl Benton, vice president of sales and marketing for the automotive aftermarket with MANN+HUMMEL. “We’ve decided the best way to celebrate this milestone is by incentivizing motorists to prepare for summer travel with timely maintenance that helps them get the most out of their investments.”

*Consumers can mix and match up to three items. Maximum rebate payout is $15. Limit one rebate payout per customer, per household.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, July 5th, 2023
Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (35)

QA1 Partners with Street Machine Nationals-
10 years running

ST. PAUL, MN [June 29, 2023] — A decade ago, QA1 opened its doors to Street Machine Nationals participants to tour its facility and headquarters in Lakeville, Minnesota. That tradition has continued each and every year since. This year’s QA1 Open House is set for Friday, July 21.

Following a tour of the 100,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility, Street Machine Nationals participants will cruise the approximately 30-mile route to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds for the opening day of the Continental Street Machine Nationals.

Street Machine Nationals participants who have pre-registered a vehicle and picked up their registration packet; will have preferred entrance to the show as part of the QA1 Cruise.

“Our 10th annual QA1 Open House is a celebration of the passion and dedication of both our team and the car enthusiasts in our area,” said Dave Kass, Marketing Manager at QA1. “For the past decade, we have gathered and opened our doors as a fun way to kick off an exciting weekend. This year, we’re thrilled to come together once again, to make new memories as we #goDRIVEit to the Street Machine Nationals together.”

Street Machine Nationals participants and attendees are encouraged to use the hashtag #goDRIVEit on social media when referencing the QA1 Open House and Cruise.

Again in 2023, QA1 will sponsor the Autocross course and competition, which is always one of the most popular event features at the Continental Street Machine Nationals in St. Paul. On Friday, four sessions of Autocross will hit the track, followed by six on Saturday and four on Sunday. Times will be recorded, and bragging rights will be on the line.

“As a proud sponsor of the QA1 Autocross, we cannot wait for…a fun-filled weekend at the Street Machine Nationals," said Kass.

The Continental Street Machine Nationals in St. Paul revs up Friday, July 21, and runs through Sunday, July 23.

For more information on the QA1 Open House and Cruise to the Continental Street Machine Nationals in St. Paul visit, www.streetmachinenationals.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Discount Tickets Available Online for Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals in St. Paul

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (36)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (37)

ST. PAUL, Minn. (June 21, 2023) — Discount spectator tickets are available for the Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, Friday, July 21 through Sunday, July 23.

Attendees can save money, expedite show entry and enjoy a contactless transaction by purchasing tickets in advance online at streetmachinenationals.net.

When purchased online through July 20, a 1-Day Adult Ticket (ages 13+) is $13 and a Weekend Pass is $23. On-site, only 1-Day Adult Tickets will be available for $15.

Children 12 and under are Free, but do require a ticket, which can be obtained online or at the box office.

Event features at the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals include QA1 Autocrss, the Burnout Contest and the Dyno Challenge presented by CarVici. The Performance Marketplace will feature industry-leading brands with the latest parts, products and services, with many Exhibitors offering special “Show-Only” pricing.

Always a highlight for participants and spectators alike at the St. Paul Street Machine Nationals is QA1 Autocross, which will challenge driver’s skills on a course with tight turns and tough competition. Bragging rights will be on the line for the competition, which will take place each of the three days of the event.

Numerous awards will be handed out in a variety of categories as part of the Loud Donkeys Show-N-Shine Contest, with Pro Judges in attendance. Over 20 new categories have been added to the Show-N-Shine Contest this year.

The Loud Donkeys Cornhole Tournament will take place on Saturday, July 22, with bragging rights and great prizes on the line.

The Continental Tire Cruise Route will also be open during show hours for participants to show off their rides and attendees to take in the sights.

Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available for companies that would like to get their name and brand in front of thousands of automotive enthusiasts.

For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals as well as to buy discount tickets online and/or register a vehicle, visit streetmachinenationals.net

For Immediate Release.
June 20th, 2023
Iola, WI.
By Iola Car Show

IOLA CAR SHOW UNVEILS NEW “WELCOME TO IOLA” SIGN

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (38)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (39)
In the fall of 2022, we approached Village of Iola Board President Jennifer Schustek with an idea we were really passionate about. We, the staff at the Iola Car Show, are always talking about the recognition our community garners as a result of the national notoriety generated from the annual Iola Car Show event. We want to encourage those within the village to embrace that attention and find ways to bring more people and business to town with similar theming, showing cohesiveness as a community, and capitalizing on what we have here that is unique from other small towns. We wanted to lead by example, and pitched the concept to renovate the “Welcome to Iola” sign near the car show grounds on the west end of town – it’s one of the first things people see when they drive into town!

Jennifer was supportive of the plan and the car show agreed to take on the project including the costs and labor to see it through. We got to work right away creating a vision we hope will make a strong and positive impression in the community and beyond.

In September of 2022, the first phase began. Matt Marquardt, the new Director of Swap for the Iola Car Show, started to decorate a space for the photo shoot. The goal was to capture an image that put our automotive theme in the forefront, but also included many other important elements of the community. Built into the photo are a number of hidden and subtle nods to the culture of the Iola-Scandinavia area.

We knew in order to be impactful, this sign needed a vehicle that would garner a lot of attention. We wanted it to be a local car and wanted it to be owned by someone who was an outstanding member of the community. We didn’t have to look far at all to find the perfect fit.

Ron Hardel has been a staple in the community for generations. It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t know him and doesn’t have great things to say about him. In addition, Ron is the owner of an amazing 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 which we knew would be the perfect statement car. We wanted the finished product to be a surprise for both Ron and the community, and we worked with Ron’s grandson Josh to coordinate the car for the photo shoot.

We reached out to Eric Danielson, a close friend of the show who does photography as a hobby. He helped us to position the car and camera for the shoot and with edits. During the the shoot, something unplanned and very cool happened. Eric’s son, Emmett, was assisting him throughout the day of the shoot. Without Eric knowing, Emmett had collected a few images of his own on one of Eric’s back-up cameras. Eric found them later on when he was going through images and one photo in particular was so obviously outstanding, he knew something special had to be done with it.

With permission from the village and a great photo, all that was left to be done was to squeeze in a complicated and significant construction in the short spring before the show without a lot of help from mother nature. There is no better or more capable team for this than the Pit Crew from the Iola Car Show. The entire group, including volunteers, contributed to the finished product, led by Earl Lederhaus with a lot of assistance from seasonal worker Hayden Nelson.

As you look at the photo, take notice of all the little treasures so thoughtfully included. We won’t ruin the eye-spy for you, but here are just a few to get you started.
Vintage I-S Letterman’s jacket to symbolize the strong schools and athletic programs
Iola Lions Club vest to symbolize all of our community’s service minded organizations
Wooden Ski’s placed to symbolize our winter sports heritage

The rest? Well, you’ll just have to look for those…

This really was a team effort including many members of the Iola Car Show staff and volunteers, and it wouldn’t have happened without the support of Jennifer Schustek and Village of Iola. There are a couple key people and businesses we want to call out by name for their contributions. Earl and Hayden were the construction leads from the pit crew. Dennis Dickhut and Jim Payton were important role players resolving various design challenges. Ali Johnson was instrumental in forming and bringing the vision to life, and we received support from local businesses Torborgs Lumber and RH Fischer Overhead Door.

From all of us at the show, we are so excited to ignite a vision within the town and hope the community, near and far, can appreciate the effort of so many. A small garage on the edge of town serves as a welcome to travelers and is just the start of what our small town has to offer. We hope this is a catalyst for inspiration to locals and a demonstration of what we can do together.

The sign was unveiled on June 19th, 2023. Ron’s appreciation was evident as a few tears streamed down his face, and it was hard for the rest of the group to keep emotions in check seeing the surprise and happiness on his face. At the unveiling he talked about his late wife Carol of 66 years and what the car meant to them and how it was at her urging to finally get the car restored.

Present for the unveiling were:
Ron Hardel
Dale Hardel
Cathy Hardel
Rick Bonikowske
Lana Bonikowske
Eric Danielson
Emmett Danielson
Jennifer Schustek
Joe Opperman
Ali Johnson
Earl Lederhaus
Jim Payton
Bailey Walejko
Matt Marquart
Grant Fredy
RJ Opperman
Hayden Nelson
Dennis Dickhut

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals this Weekend in Du Quoin

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (40)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (41)

DUQUOIN, Ill. (June 20, 2023) — The wait is finally over as the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals roll into Southern Illinois this weekend at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25.

The picturesque Fairgrounds will be filled with stunning hot rods, muscle cars, street machines and street trucks, along with the widely popular Pro Street vehicles.

Pro Street Alley spotlights some of the most unique Pro Street cars ever built. The Pro Street category has a rich and storied history at the Du Quoin Street Machine Nationals. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Pro Street builders were very popular and built numerous award-winning cars.

Numerous Pro-Judged Awards will be handed out in a variety of categories during the Street Machine Nationals as part of the Show-N-Shine Contest. Over 20 new categories have been added to the Contest this year.

Street Machine Nationals participants can take part in the Continental Tire Burnout Contest and the Dyno Challenge, showing off the true performance of their vehicles. The Continental Tire Cruise Route will also provide the opportunity for participants to show off their rides.

The Performance Marketplace will feature industry-leading brands with the latest parts, products and services, with many vendors offering special “Show-Only” pricing. The Performance Marketplace is a must for the “Do-It-Yourselfer” who is planning that next automotive project.

The Egyptian Antique Auto Club will be hosting a Swap Meet again this year at the Street Machine Nationals. Those at the Swap Meet will be offering used auto parts, tools and automotive collectibles.

Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities remain for companies that would like to get their name and brand in front of thousands of automotive enthusiasts.

For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals, as well as to purchase tickets and/or to register a vehicle, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net

NASCAR LEGEND RICHARD PETTY TO ANNOUNCE
NORTHERN TOOL + EQUIPMENT’S STUDENT RAT ROD BUILD-OFF AT
MSRA BACK TO THE FIFTIES

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (42)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (43)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (44)

Students from Minneapolis North and Lakeville North to meet mentors Petty and Celebrity Motorcycle Builder Billy Lane

Friday, June 23 at 11 a.m. at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds

WHO: NASCAR legend, Richard Petty

Celebrity custom motorcycle builder, Billy Lane

Students and instructors from Minneapolis North and Lakeville North High Schools

Representatives from Northern Tool + Equipment

WHAT: Petty and Lane will be at MSRA’s Back to the Fifties event to help Northern Tool + Equipment announce a rat rod kart build-off between two local high schools, Minneapolis North and Lakeville North.

The students at both schools will spend the next year constructing rat rod go-karts using 740cc NorthStar EFI engines under the watchful eye of mentors, Petty and Lane.

The build-off is part of Northern Tool’s Tools for the Trades™ program. Northern Tool created Tools for the Trades™ to help address the skilled trades labor gap by providing schools, students, and instructors with the proper equipment to grow trades learning options and the experiences to fuel interest in the trades for the next generation.

WHEN: Friday, June 23, 2023

11 a.m.

11 – 11:30 a.m. Program

Afterwards, interviews will be available with Petty, Lane, Northern Tool + Equipment representatives, and Minneapolis North and Lakeville North instructors and students.

WHERE: MSRA Back to the Fifties

Minnesota State Fairgrounds

Leinie Lodge Bandshell Stage (by the Space Tower)

1302 Cooper Street

TICKETS: This event is free with admission.

Discount tickets ($13) can be purchased in advance at participating NAPA Auto stores in Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

Tickets purchased at the gate at the State Fairgrounds are $15 (cash only). Children under 15 are free with a paid adult. No online ticket sales.

MORE: MSRA Back to the Fifties Weekend sponsored by NAPA Auto Parts will roll into the Minnesota State Fairgrounds June 23 – 25, 2023. Back to the Fifties Weekend will feature more than 10,000 street rods, customs, classics, and restored vehicles, all dating from 1964 and earlier. www.MSRABackToThe50s.com>

Northern Tool + Equipment is a family-owned company serving both DIYers and trades professionals tackling the tough projects. A leading supplier of more than 100,000 high-quality tools and equipment for over 40 years, the company’s highly-trained team has an immense breadth of knowledge to help customers in-person at more than 130 retail stores, online and over the phone through their fully-staffed contact center. From helping customers get the right tool for the job to assisting with parts and repairs that keep tools running at peak performance, customer service is at the foundation of Northern Tool’s mission. With a passion for serving their communities and helping to fill the trades labor shortage, the company’s Tools for the Trades™ program donates high-quality tools directly into school classrooms, helping teachers show students the value of working in the trades. www.NorthernTool.com

CONTACT: Molly Steinke, Nemer Fieger, molly@nemerfieger.com, 612-309-1677

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals is Next Weekend in Du Quoin

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (45)
Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (46)

DU QUOIN, Ill. (June 14, 2023) — The Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals are next weekend at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25. Featuring some of the most stunning hot rods, muscle cars, street machines and street trucks, the Street Machine Nationals are a fun-filled weekend for the entire family.</p>
Pro Street Alley spotlights some of the most breathtaking and innovative Pro Street cars ever built. The Pro Street category has a rich and storied history at the Du Quoin Street Machine Nationals. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Pro Street builders were very popular and built numerous award-winning cars.
<p>The Performance Marketplace will feature industry-leading brands with the latest parts, products and services, with many vendors offering special “Show-Only” pricing. For the “Do-It-Yourselfer,” the Performance Marketplace is a must for that next automotive project.
Again this year, the Egyptian Antique Auto Club will be hosting a Swap Meet. Those at the Swap Meet will be offering used auto parts, tools and automotive collectibles.</p>
;Street Machine Nationals participants can take part in the Continental Tire Burnout Contest and the Dyno Challenge, testing the true performance of their vehicles. The Continental Tire Cruise Route will also provide the opportunity for participants to show off their rides.
Numerous Pro-Judged Awards will be handed out in a variety of categories during the Street Machine Nationals as part of the recently expanded Show-N-Shine Contest, with over 20 new categories offered this year.;
Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available for companies that would like to get their name and brand in front of thousands of automotive enthusiasts at the Street Machine Nationals.
For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals, as well as to purchase tickets and/or to register a vehicle, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net</
<h6>The 2023 SEMA Show will feature a fully customizable hands-on education program that attendees will be able to use to jump-start and create a comprehensive professional development experience throughout the year.</h6>
<p>2023 SEMA SHOW TO FEATURE EXPANDED<br />
EDUCATION PROGRAM</p>
<p>-- The new SEMA Show Education program is fully customizable and can be used to create a best-in-class professional development experience throughout the year --</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-58155" src="https://carshownationals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/PR2_9171_2-800x531.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="531" /></p>
<p>DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (June 14, 2023) – As part of SEMA’s initiative to create a more robust career- and professional-development program year-round, the 2023 SEMA Show will feature a fully customizable hands-on education program that focuses on leadership and skill development, networking, exploration of emerging trends, and industry best practices. Attendees will be able to use this year’s program to jump-start and create a comprehensive year-long educational program.</p>
<p>"We want to support our attendees by offering a customizable learning journey for skill development and competency-based education inclusive of the Show and throughout the rest of the year," said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA Director of Education. "Our goal is to engage showgoers by creating high-energy learning situations throughout the Show environment and creating educational opportunities that are delivered in various formats, whether they be ‘fireside chats,’ workshops, Main Stage Experiences, or celebrity showcases.”</p>
<p>This year’s program will feature globally recognized speakers and industry leaders sharing their expertise with attendees. Also new for this year is an EV certification program from Legacy EV that offers hands-on training to automotive techs who want an up-skill understanding of EV anatomy, powertrains, and electrical theory. Attendees who complete the program will receive an EV101 certificate from Legacy EV.</p>
<p>“We have been very intentional about selecting our sessions and speakers this year,” explained Brown-Matthis. “All of our speakers are subject-matter experts and industry leaders who have the knowledge and ability to inspire change, and our sessions offer content that is relevant, meaningful and valuable for all our Show participants.”</p>
<p>Other SEMA Show Education Program highlights:</p>
<p>99 sessions by subject matter experts, beginning Monday afternoon (October 30) to provide wider access to education<br />
Six highly focused SEMA Education tracks: Inside the Shop; Aftermarket Updates and Future Trends; Small-Business Strategy; Sales and Marketing; Vehicle Technology and Electric Vehicles; and Legal and Regulatory<br />
Women in Automotive Symposium, including a Micro Learning Lab Experience consisting of four professional-development workshops, keynotes, power networking luncheon and a C-Suite Insights panel<br />
Dale Carnegie Leadership Essentials program, a six-part series by executive coaches from the world-renown Dale Carnegie Program that are designed to enhance leadership skills<br />
Education sessions from partners Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), and the Tire Industry Association (TIA).<br />
Access to most education programs are included as a benefit to registration. For more information about the SEMA Show, this year’s Education Program, or to register, visit <a href="http://www.sema.org"> www.sema.org</a></p>
<p>The 2023 SEMA Show, taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty equipment industry. It is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business contacts, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers from good to great.</p>
<p>About SEMA and the SEMA Show<br />
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at <a href="http://www.sema.org"> www.sema.org</a> , <a href="http://www.semashow.com"> www.semashow.com</a> 909/396-0289.</p>
<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<br />
Wednesday, June 7, 2023</p>
<h5>SAVE THE DATE: Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals, July 21-23</h5>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-58004" src="https://carshownationals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/street-machine-nationals.png" alt="" width="350" height="271" /></p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-58005" src="https://carshownationals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mail.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="333" /></p>
<p>WHAT:<br />
The Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals rolls into into the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, Friday, July 21st through Sunday, July 23rd. The Street Machine Summer Nationals is a celebration of horsepower that draws some of the most unique muscle cars in the world. Industry-leading brands will be showcased in the Performance Marketplace, many offer special “Show Only” pricing. The Loud Donkeys Show-N-Shine contest will feature pro judging in a wide array of categories.</p>
<p>Event Features:<br />
QA1 Autocross – Driving skills challenge course w/ tight turns and tough competition<br />
Pro-Judged Loud Donkeys Show-N-Shine Awards, with numerous new categories this year<br />
Smokin"> Performance Marketplace – Leading Industry brands on-site with products and services on display
Cruising in the legendary Continental Tire Cruise Lane, all weekend

WHEN:
Friday, July 21, 2023 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday, July 22, 2023 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday, July 23, 2023 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

WHERE:
Minnesota State Fairgrounds | 1265 Snelling Avenue | St. Paul, MN 55108

TICKETS:
Discount tickets are available online at StreetMachineNationals.net .

Online: Adult Through July 20 (ages 13+): $13
Online Adult Weekend Pass Through July 20: $23
At the Gate: Adult (ages 13+): $20
Kids ages 12-under free

REGISTER:
Register vehicles at StreetMachineNationals.net. Pre-register by Wednesday, July 19 for $50. Register on-site starting Thursday, July 20 for $65. Registration includes one goody bag and weekend entry for car and 2 adults and any children 12-under, riding in the vehicle.

SPONSORS:
Continental Tire, QA1, Suburban GM Parts, Carvici, Loud Donkeys, A+ Towing

INFO:
Visit us online at StreetMachineNationals.net. Find us on Facebook & Instagram @StreetMachineNationals and Snapchat @SMNationals.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 1, 2023

Discount Tickets Available Online for Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (47)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (48)

DU QUOIN, Ill. (June 1, 2023) — Discount tickets can be purchased online in advance for the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25.

Attendees can save money, expedite show entry and enjoy a contactless transaction by purchasing tickets in advance online at streetmachinenationals.net. When purchased in advance online, a 1-day Adult (ages 13+) ticket is just $8. Children 12 and under are Free.

Again this year, weekend passes will be available and provide admission for one person for all three days of the event. Adult weekend passes are only available online for $23 through June 22nd.

Event features at the Street Machine Nationals include the Continental Tire Burnout Contest and the Dyno Challenge. The Performance Marketplace will feature industry-leading brands with the latest parts, products and services, with many Exhibitors offering special “Show-Only” pricing.

Pro Street Alley will spotlight some of the most stunning and innovative Pro Street cars ever built. The Pro Street category has a rich and storied history at the Du Quoin Street Machine Nationals. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Pro Street builders were very popular and engineered numerous award-winning cars.

Numerous Pro-Judged Awards will be handed out in a variety of categories as part of the Show-N-Shine Awards. Over 20 new categories have been added to the Show-N-Shine Contest this year.

The Egyptian Antique Auto Club will be hosting a Swap Meet. Those at the Swap Meet will be offering used auto parts, tools and automotive collectibles.

The Continental Tire Cruise Route will also be open during show hours for participants to show off their rides and attendees to take in the sights.

On Saturday, the Loud Donkeys Cornhole Tournament will take place, with bragging rights and great prices on the line.

For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals and to purchase discount tickets in advance online, visit streetmachinenationals.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 24, 2023
Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (49)

Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals Rev up in Du Quoin, June 23-25

DU QUOIN, Ill. (May 25, 2023) — The Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals are just around the corner at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25.

A fun-filled weekend awaits the whole family, spotlighting some of the most unique hot rods, muscle cars, street machines and street trucks.

Pro Street Alley will feature some of the most stunning and innovative Pro Street cars ever built. The Pro Street category has a rich and storied history at the Du Quoin Street Machine Nationals. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Pro Street builders were very popular and built numerous award-winning cars.

The Performance Marketplace will feature industry-leading brands with the latest parts, products and services, with many vendors offering special “Show-Only” pricing. For the “Do it yourselfer” the Performance Marketplace is a must for that next automotive project.

Again this year, the Egyptian Antique Auto Club will be hosting a Swap Meet. Vendors at the Swap Meet will be offering used auto parts, tools and automotive collectibles.

Street Machine Nationals participants can take part in the Continental Tire Burnout Contest and the Dyno Challenge, showing off the true performance of their vehicles. The Continental Tire Cruise Route will also provide the opportunity for participants to show off their rides.

Numerous Pro-Judged Awards, including several new categories this year, will be handed out during the Street Machine Nationals as part of the Show-N-Shine Awards.

The Loud Donkeys Cornhole Tournament will take place on Saturday, June 24, with great prizes and bragging rights on the line.

For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals, to purchase discount tickets in advance and/or to register a vehicle, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lucas Oil Corporate Communications

310-374-6177

LucasOil@GoDriven360.com

Academy of Country Music and Lucas Oil Launch “ACM Garage Talk” Video Series Featuring Four Artists

The digital series shares personal stories behind the vehicles of some of Country Music’s favorite artists – starting with Riley Green and his 1987 truck, followed by three additional stars

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (50)

INDIANAPOLIS (May 23, 2023) – Lucas Oil, the world leader and distributor of high-performance automotive additives and lubricants, and the Academy of Country Music are launching the ACM Garage Talk digital series – highlighting the personal stories behind the vehicles of some of the Country Music world’s favorite artists.

Riley Green kicks off the series, giving fans exclusive insight into his 1987 GMC Sierra Custom Deluxe, which he still owns and maintains today. The “If It Wasn’t for Trucks” star, who learned how to drive in the truck as a young teenager, sheds light on how he drove it to venues early on in his career – and how it saved a gig in Mississippi when an ice storm stranded his tour bus.

More Artist Stories to be Featured on ACM Garage Talk Presented by Lucas Oil

Three additional artists will be announced in the coming months. As a complement to the series, Lucas Oil sponsored a VIP space at the ACM Country Kickoff festival as a lead-up to the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards which aired on May 11.

The excitement around ACM Week in North Texas began with the ACM Country Kickoff at Tostitos Championship Plaza at The Star. Fans experienced a free two-day festival, getting the chance to get up close and personal with some of Country Music’s biggest stars and celebrate the ACM Awards’ return to North Texas. Some of today’s most exciting up-and-coming Country Music artists performed on the main stage, including several ACM Award nominees.

For more information about the ACM Garage Talk Series, or to schedule an interview with Lucas Oil and ACM leadership, please contact LucasOil@GoDriven360.com.

About the Academy of Country Music

Founded in Southern California in 1964 as a regional trade organization, the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC (ACM) has grown in the almost-60 years since into a leading association for the country music industry. Now headquartered in Nashville, TN and boasting record-high membership of nearly 5,000 nationwide, the Academy serves as a powerhouse advocate for country fans, artists and all facets of the business, as well as a supporter of philanthropic work through charitable partner ACM LIFTING LIVES, dedicated to improving lives through the power of music and providing aid in times of need, with a focus on health initiatives. 2023 looks to be another monumental year for the Academy, with the ACM Awards returning to Texas on May 11 and streaming live for a global audience on Prime Video, still the only major awards show to livestream. The Academy also remains relentlessly committed to creating a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups in country music, from the boardroom to the stage, and over the last year has launched both ACM LEVel Up, a two-year professional development and enrichment curriculum for rising leaders, and OnRamp, a guaranteed income program for Black members of the Nashville music community, in partnership with the Black Music Action Coalition. For more information, log onto www.ACMcountry.com or www.ACMLiftingLives.org

About Lucas Oil

Founded in 1989 by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas, Lucas Oil Products was created with the simple philosophy of producing the best lubricants and additives available anywhere. Lucas Oil offers the most diversified range of innovative engine oil, gear oil and additive products refined by years of specialized research, development and testing. The company’s high performance engine oils and gear oils are widely recognized as best-in-class in the automotive, powersports, marine, industrial, outdoor and motorsports marketplaces. In total, Lucas Oil boasts more than 300 premium products, representing the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries.

Lucas Oil’s commitment to motorsports includes long standing support for high profile regional and national racing series, and the distribution of exclusive motorsports content from across the globe via MAVTV, a Lucas Oil owned and operated television network. The company also serves as the exclusive oil and lubricant partner of Monster Jam®, the Dallas Cowboys, the Indianapolis Colts and Lucas Oil Stadium. For more information, please visit www.LucasOil.com .

Lucas Oil Returns as Primary Sponsor of the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet at Darlington – Car to Feature ‘Throwback’ Winning Paint Scheme from Auto Club Speedway Victory

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lucas Oil Corporate Communications
310-374-6177
LucasOil@GoDriven360.com

Lucas Oil Returns as Primary Sponsor of the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet at Darlington – Car to Feature ‘Throwback’ Winning Paint Scheme from Auto Club Speedway Victory
Primary Sponsorship Highlights Long Standing Technical and Development Partnership with Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (51)

WELCOME, N.C. (May 10, 2023) – Lucas Oil, a long-time partner of both Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines, returns as the primary sponsor of the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet driven by Kyle Busch at Darlington Raceway on Sunday, May 14, 2023. The paint scheme of the No. 8 car will be a ‘throwback’ to February when Kyle Busch took the Lucas Oil Chevrolet to victory lane at Auto Club Speedway. Earlier this year, Lucas Oil announced that it was enhancing its partnership with Richard Childress Racing in 2023 with continued technical and development support of RCR and ECR Engines. The race airs live at 3:00 p.m. ET on FOX.
“We couldn't be more thrilled to be back as the primary sponsor of Kyle’s No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet at the historic Darlington Raceway. Fans loved seeing the red, white and blue Lucas Oil colors leading the pack earlier this year, so we decided to bring back our ‘throwback’ paint scheme to honor Kyle’s win at Auto Club in February,” said Brandon Bernstein, director of partnership marketing for Lucas Oil. “Having the opportunity to be the primary sponsor of Kyle’s car for the second time this season is a tremendous honor for Lucas Oil, and it underscores the strength of our partnership with RCR and ECR Engines. We’ll be rooting for Rowdy and look forward to a sensational race.”
Since 2014, Lucas Oil has served as the official lubricant of RCR and ECR Engines and is the official motor oil of ECR Engines. ECR Engines and Lucas Oil have recorded a total of 125 wins between 2014 and 2022, with another eight victories in 2023.
“This has already been an incredible season for RCR and ECR Engines, and we can definitely attribute a lot of our on-track success to Lucas Oil’s remarkable performance and continued technical support,” said Bob Fisher, senior vice president of ECR Engines. “Having Lucas Oil as the primary sponsor of the No. 8 car at Darlington is very special to all of us at RCR and ECR Engines and we believe that our partnership will yield the edge needed to have another shot at victory lane.”
Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil has established itself as an industry leader, producing only the best line of lubricants and additives available anywhere.
“We continue to see the benefits of having Lucas Oil as the official engine oil of RCR and ECR and we know that it has contributed to the reliability we’ve shown on track this season,” said Torrey Galida, president of RCR. “Lucas Oil is a premier organization with deep racing roots and we’re very thankful for the support they provide to both RCR and ECR Engines.”
For more information and all that is going on at RCR, visit rcrracing.com
About Lucas Oil:
Founded in 1989 by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas, Lucas Oil Products was created with the simple philosophy of producing the best lubricants and additives available anywhere. Lucas Oil offers the most diversified range of innovative engine oil, gear oil and additive products refined by years of specialized research, development and testing. The company’s high performance engine oils and gear oils are widely recognized as best-in-class in the automotive, powersports, marine, industrial, outdoor, and motorsports marketplaces. In total, Lucas Oil boasts more than 300 premium products, representing the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries.
Lucas Oil’s commitment to motorsports includes long standing support for high profile regional and national racing series, and the distribution of exclusive motorsports content from across the globe via MAVTV, a Lucas Oil owned and operated television network. The company also serves as the exclusive oil and lubricant partner of Monster Jam®, the Dallas Cowboys, the Indianapolis Colts and Lucas Oil Stadium. For more information please visit www.LucasOil.com
About Richard Childress Racing:
Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2023 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Sheldon Creed (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).
Contact:
Jackie Franzil
Vice President, Communications and Partnership Engagement
Richard Childress Racing
Cell: (336) 655-8278
jfranzil@rcrracing.com

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Click the logo to check out the coolest car channel yet! Coming soon!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, May 9, 2023
SAVE THE DATE: Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, June 23-25

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WHAT:
The Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals are back at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25. Don’t miss the wide array of stunning high-performance street machines, hot rods, street trucks and the best dream machines. Pro Street Alley will feature some of the biggest names in the Pro Street world. In addition to the cars, check out the Performance Marketplace to shop for the latest aftermarket parts, with many vendors offering special “Show-only” pricing. The Burnout Contest and Dyno Challenge will test the true performances of participant vehicles. The Show-N-Shine Contest will highlight some of the most innovative and unique vehicles.

WHEN:
Friday, June 23, 2023 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 24, 2023 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Sunday, June 25, 2023 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds | 655 Executive Drive
Du Quoin, IL 62832

TICKETS:
Advance tickets are available online at www.StreetMachineNationals.net

Online in Advance: Adult (ages 13+): $8
Adult Weekend Pass: $23
At the Gate: Adult (ages 13+): $15
Kids ages 12-under free

REGISTER:
Participant entries are being currently being accepted. All makes, models, and years are invited to attend. Registration includes weekend admission for the vehicle, driver, one passenger, and up to five children, ages 12 and under riding in the vehicle. Register on-site, beginning on Thursday, June 22nd.

SPONSORS:
Continental Tire and Loud Donkeys

INFO:
The latest information can be found at www.StreetMachineNationals.net
and on Facebook and Instagram @StreetMachineNationals.

Registration for the 2023 SEMA Show opens May 1 at www.semashow.com/register. The annual trade event will take place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

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2023 SEMA SHOW REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 1

-- Annual in-person trade show allows participants to stay at the forefront of new products, trends, and technology while building meaningful relationships and partnerships --

-- Planning ahead and registering early saves money, delivers greatest return on investment --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (April 20, 2023) – Registration for the 2023 SEMA Show opens May 1 at www.semashow.com/register . The annual trade event taking place October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center is the ultimate business gathering for the automotive specialty equipment industry.

By bringing together all segments of the industry – including racing and performance, mobile electronics, hot rod and restoration, restyling and car care, collision repair, trucks, offroad, powersports, overlanding, and wheels and tires – the SEMA Show is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business contacts, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers from good to great.

“With the worldwide automotive industry gathered together in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show gives attendees the once-a-year opportunity to connect as a global community,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA VP of Events. “Attendees build meaningful relationships, develop trust, and strengthen bonds that lead to partnerships and real results. They are engaging on a level that doesn’t compare to anything else.”

Registration of only $40 per person is open to buyers and attendees who sign up between May 1-June 30. Early registration also ensures that applicants will receive important news and updates about the SEMA Show in advance, including actual badges in the mail before the event in November.

“The most successful attendees at the SEMA Show are those who secure their badges early,” said Gattuso. “In addition to saving money, Showgoers who register early benefit by learning about special events, opportunities, and discounts.”

Upon registering, attendees will be guided on exclusive discounts for hotels, best practices for connecting with exhibitors, links to sign up for free educational seminars, details about networking events and activities, tips for navigating the Las Vegas Convention Center, the ability to request a travel visa, and more.

SEMA Show registration is offered in three primary categories – attendee, exhibitor, and media – and everyone must qualify to attend. For more information about qualifying documents and the 2023 SEMA Show, log on to www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks.
Additional details are available at www.sema.org , www.semashow.com

The World’s Largest Charity Mustang Car Show Announces show

Enlarge news release

The World’s Largest Charity Mustang Car Show is extending an invite to all Muscle Car owners to raise money for Make-A-Wish® this year! There’s still time left to register so shine your steed and head on over to Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton, PA on May 20th, 2023 for the 13th annual event!
Sign up before May 19th to get the discounted rate:
www.americanmuscle.com/autoshow2023.html

New Corvair Museum of America to Offer Yenko Stinger Experience with APEX 2025 Campaign

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 29, 2023

For more information, visit:

Home


Or contact: Teresa Miller
(515) 520-7209
teresa@corvairmuseum.org

HASTINGS, NE — It was an economy car, sports car, race car — even a van and a truck. And soon it will be the focus of a new museum in Hastings, NE.

The capital campaign is underway to build the Corvair Museum of America in this town of 25,000, home of the only working Chevrolet Corvair dealership in the country.

“We believe that this car and this moment in history deserve to be celebrated,” board member Teresa Miller said, “and we’re excited to present the Corvair Museum of America!”

A centerpiece will be the Yenko Stinger Experience, a replica of the dealership where Don Yenko created 100 COPO Stingers, Corvairs specially modified for racing. Yenko, a car dealer and racing driver, would later become famous for creating high-performance versions of the Chevy Camaro, Nova and Chevelle.

The museum will include a six-month rotating display of various Yenko cars.

Mostly, it will celebrate a special era in the American automobile industry, 1960-69, marked by one of the most groundbreaking cars ever produced, the Chevrolet Corvair.

Marketed both as an economy car and a sports car, the Corvair’s most unusual attribute was its rear-mounted, air-cooled, six-cylinder boxer engine. The unique design created more cabin space in a compact car with a nearly flat floor and lower roofline. With the introduction of the Spyder option in 1962, Corvair pioneered mass-produced turbocharging as well.

In addition to that lightweight aluminum engine, the Corvair also featured a four-wheel independent suspension and was named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year in 1960. It was produced as a coupe, sedan, convertible and station wagon, as well as being a platform for a truck and van.

The Corvair Museum of America will highlight 11 different types of Corvairs, representing all 10 model years. In addition to the Yenko Stinger Experience, the museum will emphasize history and education with interactive, hands-on exhibits, including a racing simulator. A 200-person event room with catering kitchen, an automotive library and conference room, as well as a CorvAIR BnB and RV hookups, are also planned.

Hastings has been at the crossroads of the Corvair world since Chris and Stephanie Shade started Shade’s Classic Corvairs in 2010. Since then, hundreds of Corvairs have come through Hastings to be restored, repaired or maintained. Corvairs from Hastings have been sold to buyers all over the U.S., Canada, Europe, Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand.

“We believe we have a unique vision to create an experience that celebrates the pioneering innovations represented in the Corvair,” President Chris Shade said, “but this can’t happen without your support.”

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Corvair Museum of America is seeking tax-deductible donations to make this tribute to an American original possible. Go to corvairmuseum.org to make donations, watch the video and virtual tour, and purchase merchandise.

For more information, contact Teresa Miller at (515) 520-7209 or by email at teresa@corvairmuseum.org

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023 with a campaign that will highlight the stories and members of the network and culminate with a reception at the 2023 SEMA Show.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (59)

SEMA Businesswomen’s Network Celebrates 30 Years of Advancing Women in the Automotive Aftermarket

-- SBN campaign highlights women’s advancements, accomplishments, and members --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (March 13, 2023) – The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), a subset network of the Specialty Equipment Market Association that supports and raises awareness of women in the automotive industry, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023.

The network, which encourages and supports women pursuing careers in the automotive field, represents over 700 female and male members spanning across various occupations and markets in the aftermarket industry.

Since 1993, the SBN has developed and managed industry-focused programs for women, including networking and recognition opportunities. Most recently, it completed its second all-female vehicle build, hosted its second annual Women’s Leadership Forum, and continues to spotlight the stories and careers of women in the automotive industry though its #SheIsSEMA campaign.

“SBN’s history is one of ambition and progress, and we couldn’t be more excited for the community that we have created,” said SBN Director Nicole Bradle. “It’s a network where all women are recognized and supported for their contributions to this thriving industry.”

To celebrate the milestone, the SBN launched a campaign to highlight the stories and members of the network throughout SEMA and SBN communication channels. The campaign will run throughout 2023 and culminate at the SBN 30th Anniversary Reception and Party at the SEMA Show in November.

“There is no better time than now to reflect on what the SBN has achieved,” added Bradle. “Looking to the future, we aspire to further foster growth, support, and community for women.”

To learn more about the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network, visit www.sema.org/sbn .
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About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , or www.performanceracing.com .

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (61)Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (62)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, February 20, 2023

Registration, Parking & Tickets on Sale for Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin
DU QUOIN, Ill. (February 20, 2023) — Vehicle registration, reserved parking and spectator tickets are now on sale for the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, IL, Friday, June 23 through Sunday, June 25 and can be purchased online at streetmachinenationals.net.
By registering a street legal vehicle, participants can drive their vehicle onto the show grounds, participate in the Cruise Route inside the show, purchase an exclusive area to park/display their vehicle in and attend all show features and exhibitions, enter the Show-N-Shine competition and visit the Performance Marketplace.
Registration Costs
$35- Early Bird - Good through April 30, 2023
$45- Pre-Registration - May 1-June 21, 2023
$60- On-Site Registration - June 22-25, 2023
Participants receive the following:
Two (2) Adult wristbands good for all three days of the event (ages 13 + up).
Admission for up to 5 children ages 12 and under when they enter the show in your vehicle.
A Goodie bag with fun swag (1 per Vehicle).
The ability to purchase and choose your own personal area to park and display your vehicle.
Attendees can save money, expedite show entry and enjoy a contactless transaction by purchasing tickets in advance online at www.streetmachinenationals.net. Children 12 and under are Free, but do need a ticket, which can be obtained online or at the box office. Again this year, weekend passes will be available and provide admission for one person for all three days of the event.
Details on specific event features and exhibitors will be announced soon. Stayed tuned to the Street Machine Nationals website and social media channels.
For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals as well as to register a vehicle or buy a reserved parking spot and attendee tickets online, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, February 20, 2023

Registration, Reserved Parking & Tickets on Sale for Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals in St. Paul

ST. PAUL Minn. (February 20, 2023) — Vehicle registration, reserved parking and spectator tickets are now on sale for the Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, Friday, July 21 through Sunday, July 23 and can be purchased online at www.streetmachinenationals.net

By registering a street legal vehicle, participants can drive their vehicle onto the show grounds, participate in the Cruise Route inside the show, purchase an exclusive area to park/display their vehicle in, attend all show features and exhibitions, enter the Show-N-Shine competition and visit the Performance Marketplace.

Registration Costs
$40 – Early Bird – Good through April 30, 2023
$55 – Pre-Registration – May 1 through July 19, 2023
$75 – On-Site Registration – July 20-23, 2023

Participants receive the following:
Two (2) Adult wristbands good for all three days of the event (ages 13 + up).
Admission for up to 5 children ages 12 and under when they enter the show in your vehicle.
A Goodie bag with fun swag (1 per Vehicle).
The ability to purchase and choose your own personal area to park and display your vehicle.

Tickets
Attendees can save money, expedite show entry and enjoy a contactless transaction by purchasing tickets in advance online at streetmachinenationals.net. Children 12 and under are Free, but do require a ticket, which can be obtained online or at the box office. Again this year, weekend passes will be available.

Details on specific event features and exhibitors will be announced soon. Stayed tuned to the Street Machine Nationals website and social media channels.

For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals as well as to register a vehicle or buy tickets online, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net .

For the latest updates go to: www.streetmachinenationals.net

Lucas Oil Enhances Long-Standing Relationship with Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines Through Continued Technical and Development Support and Primary Sponsorship.

Kyle Busch to Drive the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet at Auto Club Speedway

All RCR NASCAR Cup engines and ECR (engines provided to NASCAR Cup and Xfinity partners + IMSA, TransAM, dirt track) rely on the best performance motor oil in NASCAR (a result of deep research and development programs between Lucas and RCR engineers).
This directly relates to Lucas passenger vehicle oil that's sold to consumers.
RCR also relies on the full line of Lucas Slick Mist appearance products (metal polish, speed wax for vehicles, interior detailer for rigs and other vehicles, tire/trim shine, etc.) for all of their racing operations.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (65)

WELCOME, N.C. (February 20, 2023) – Lucas Oil Products, a long-time partner of both Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines, will enhance their partnership with Richard Childress Racing in 2023, the three companies announced today. In addition to continued technical and development support, the official motor oil of ECR engines will sponsor the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet driven by Kyle Busch at Auto Club Speedway on Sunday, February 26, 2023. The race airs live at 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

“RCR and ECR share our passion for motorsports, from the grassroots to the highest levels of the sport,” said Brandon Bernstein, director of partnership marketing for Lucas Oil. “We’ve seen first-hand the benefits of our partnership, especially as it relates to technology transfer over to short track racers and everyday consumers. We’re proud to continue to commit our resources in R&D and production, and to highlight our premier oil performance with sponsorship of the No. 8 Chevrolet.”

Lucas Oil has served as the official lubricant of RCR and ECR Engines since 2014, and is the official motor oil of ECR Engines. RCR, ECR and Lucas Oil have gone to NASCAR Victory Lane together more than 20 times since the partnership began.

“Lucas Oil’s market-leading products have long contributed to the incredible durability and on-track success of ECR’s engines in many forms of motorsports,” said Bob Fisher, senior vice president of ECR Engines. “We’re proud to be able to use our high-powered competition platform to showcase Lucas Oil’s key technologies and continue to win races and championships with their R&D support.”

Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil has established itself as an industry leader, producing only the best line of lubricants and additives available anywhere.

“RCR and ECR have benefited from having a lubricants partner with strong roots in racing,” said Torrey Galida, president of RCR. “We’re incredibly thankful to Lucas for all of the resources and expertise they provide to give us a competitive on-track advantage.”

For more information and all that is going on at RCR, visit rcrracing.com.

About Richard Childress Racing:
Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2023 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Sheldon Creed (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

About Lucas Oil

Founded in 1989 by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas, Lucas Oil Products was created with the simple philosophy of producing the best lubricants and additives available anywhere. Lucas Oil offers the most diversified range of innovative engine oil, gear oil and additive products refined by years of specialized research, development and testing. The company’s high performance engine oils and gear oils are widely recognized as best-in-class in the automotive, powersports, marine, industrial, outdoor, and motorsports marketplaces. In total, Lucas Oil boasts more than 300 premium products, representing the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries.

Lucas Oil’s commitment to motorsports includes long standing support for high profile regional and national racing series, and the distribution of exclusive motorsports content from across the globe via MAVTV, a Lucas Oil owned and operated television network. The company also serves as the exclusive oil and lubricant partner of Monster Jam®, the Dallas Cowboys, the Indianapolis Colts and Lucas Oil Stadium. For more information, please visit www.LucasOil.com .

The new “SEMA Future Trends – January 2023” report provides a detailed analysis of the industry’s most important issues and trends, and it is designed to help aftermarket companies make informed business decisions.

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SEMA Unveils Top Automotive Aftermarket Trends for 2023

-- New “SEMA Future Trends – January 2023” report outlines projections for the specialty-equipment market, overall economy, and vehicle trends --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (January 26, 2023) – The automotive aftermarket continues to be impacted by shifts in the industry and overall economy. To stay competitive, businesses need to know where the market is headed.

The new “SEMA Future Trends – January 2023” report, available now at www.sema.org/research , provides a detailed analysis of the industry’s most important issues and trends in 2023 and beyond. Designed to help aftermarket companies make informed business decisions, the report includes four main parts:

Specialty-Equipment Industry Outlook

• Sales for specialty-equipment parts are projected to have slowed in 2022, growing only 2% to $51.75 billion. Barring any significant economic disruption, industry sales growth should normalize in 2023 and return to the 3-4% growth seen during typical years.

Vehicle Trends Outlook

• New-vehicle sales finished at 13.7 million units in 2022, roughly 1.2 million units below 2021 levels. Due to supply shortages, high prices and rising interest rates, it will likely take until 2025 before things return to pre-pandemic levels.

• The prices of new vehicles are exceptionally high, hitting a record $49,507 in December 2022. Prices should soften over the next year, as supply-chain issues ease and sales soften.

U.S. Economic Outlook

• Inflation hit record levels in 2022 but has peaked and is starting to lower. SEMA estimates that inflation will continue to go down in 2023. By the end of 2023, it should normalize back to around 2% per year. Similarly, costs for producers are expected to go down in 2023.

Unemployment in Q4 2022 hit 3.6% -- its lowest level since the late 1960s. As the economy slows down in 2023, there will likely be an uptick in unemployment. It should improve again in 2024.

Supply-Chain Disruption

• Ninety percent of industry companies say they were moderately or severely impacted by supply-chain issues over the last year.

• The chip shortage is ongoing, but lead times are improving. As of October 2022, the lead delivery time for a chip was 25.5 weeks—down from its peak. However, supplies of chips for automobiles remain tight and constrained.

The complete “SEMA Future Trends – January 2023” report is available to download for free at www.sema.org/research.

The report is also the subject of the webinar “SEMA Future Trends: Outlook for 2023 and Beyond”, taking place on February 2 at 11:00 a.m. PST. Register for the webinar here.

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind.

For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , or www.performanceracing.com .

The new SEMA Battle of Builders TV special will premiere on January 28, 2023, at 9:00 am (EST) on the History Channel’s Drive Block and A+E Network’s FYI. The show will feature behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews with top builders in the aftermarket industry.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (67)

SEMA Battle of the Builders TV Special Premieres January 28

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2023) – All-new, behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews from the newest SEMA Battle of Builders competition will premiere on January 28, 2023, at 9:00 am (EST) on the History Channel’s Drive Block and A+E Network’s FYI.

“SEMA: Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care” began with 240-plus vehicle builders and culminated during the 2022 SEMA Show last November in Las Vegas, Nev. In addition to featuring the winner and finalists, the one-hour television special highlights many new, up-and-coming builders and includes all-new stories and footage chronicling their journeys to the SEMA Show.

“This was one of the best and most exciting SEMA Battle of the Builders competition yet,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA vice president of marketing and communications. “The TV special is a chance for those who did not attend the SEMA Show to see what happened at the Show, and for those at the Show to relive the excitement and even discover some of what they may have missed.”

Since 2015, the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition has shined the light on vehicle builders who have already proven their talents by showcasing their vehicles at the SEMA Show. With the world’s best vehicle builders competing against one another, the contest is considered by many to be the ultimate battle.

The television program is hosted by Adrienne Janic and Tanner Foust, and features Cam Miller, Ryan Basseri, Jeremiah Prophet, and Kyle Kuhnhausen as industry experts selecting the top 12 builders in four categories: Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck; Sport Compact, Luxury & Exotics; 4-Wheel Drive & Off-Road; and Young Guns, a category for builders age 29 and under. Viewers will see the judges narrow the competitors down to 12, and then the top 12 finalists vie amongst themselves to select the final winner.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders, visit www.semashow.com/botb".

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , or www.performanceracing.com .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 17, 2023

For media inquiries, contact:

Juan Torres

909-978-6722 | juant@sema.org

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (68)

SEMA is accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame program, which honors individuals who have enhanced the automotive aftermarket.

Nominations Open for SEMA Hall of Fame

-- Program recognizes individuals who have enhanced the automotive aftermarket --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Jan. 17, 2023) - The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame program, now through March 17, 2023.

The award honors individuals in the automotive aftermarket who have enhanced the stature of the industry. Inductees include visionaries, innovators, and leaders who have positively impacted what is now a $50.9 billion market. Nominees may be business leaders or contributors from any aftermarket segment or niche.

"The SEMA community is filled with men and women whose accomplishments are so great that the entire industry is changed for the better,” said SEMA Project Manager of Recognition Programs Chris Standifer. “The SEMA Hall of Fame honors these individuals for their outstanding contributions. Without them, our industry would be significantly different from what it currently is.”

Criteria for the SEMA Hall of Fame are:

His/her contributions must have extended beyond the local level and reach throughout the national or international level.
The candidate is and/or has been involved in the specialty-equipment automotive industry and/or SEMA for a minimum of 10 (ten) years.
The candidate must have made outstanding contributions toward enhancing technology, professionalism, dignity, and/or general stature and growth of the specialty-equipment automotive industry.
The candidate must have conducted him/herself with a high degree of integrity both within and outside of the specialty-equipment automotive industry.
Candidate must be at least 50 years of age prior to the 2023 SEMA Show, or they may be at any age if deceased as long as the nomination is presented at least one year posthumous.
New Hall of Fame inductees will be announced in May. Nominations can be submitted now at www.sema.org/hof.

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com, or www.performanceracing.com .

The 2023 Twin Cities Auto Show.
The event will celebrate it’s 50th anniversary back at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Friday, March 31 – Saturday, April 8, 2023.
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50th ANNUAL TWIN CITIES AUTO SHOW

Presented by Kwik Trip
March 31 – April 8, 2023 at the Minneapolis Convention Center
Celebrating 50 Years of Automotive Innovation
Minneapolis (December 21, 2022) --- The Greater Metropolitan Automobile Association of Minnesota, Inc. (GMADA) announces that the 50th Annual Twin Cities Auto Show will return to the Minneapolis Convention Center for nine days, March 31 – April 8, 2023. This year’s new presenting sponsor is Kwik Trip.
Since 1973, the Twin Cities Auto Show has been the place to check out the latest in automotive innovation and this year’s event is sure to impress with the latest trends and technology on display. Attendees can compare hundreds of new vehicles in every category - sedans, compacts, SUVs, trucks, EVs, luxury cars - from domestic and imported brands all under one roof without driving to dealerships around town.
“We are glad to bring the Show back indoors to the Minneapolis Convention Center now that covid restrictions have been lifted,” says Twin Cities Auto Show Director Mary Velline. “We look forward to celebrating our 50th anniversary and presenting the latest in automotive innovation.”
A major highlight of the 50th annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip will be the Electric Neighborhood powered by Xcel Energy. This year’s attraction will be charged up with experts, examples, and information to help potential EV buyers make their decision to plug in.
The Xcel Energy Garage will have experts on hand to demonstrate how EVs can be charged at your home. Professional drivers will be ready to escort you on a drive in one of the latest electric vehicles. Legendary meteorologists and EV owner, Paul Douglas, will return to provide his take on the newest in EVs and to host the “EV Talk”. This free-with-admission event will cover helpful and necessary topics that help people get ready to drive an EV. Watch twincitiesautoshow.com for more information.
“Xcel Energy has a goal to enable every vehicle in its service area to run on electricity or other clean energy by 2050, as a part of our vision to be a net-zero energy provider by 2050,” said Chris Clark, President, Xcel Energy – Minnesota. “We look forward to working with the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Association of Minnesota to give customers who visit the Twin Cities Auto Show a hands-on opportunity to experience new EV models, see how easy and cost effective it is to drive an EV, and learn how our programs can support their EV transition.”
The Twin Cities Auto Show is a non-selling show. So, come and explore a wide variety of makes and models conveniently all in one location without the pressure of sales reps. The price of every vehicle will be on display; the price you can expect to pay at the dealership. The Twin Cities Auto Show is the best chance for consumers to find the car they need and want at the price they can afford before heading to a dealership.
For more information and to purchase your tickets now, visit TwinCitiesAutoShow.com.
The 50th Annual Twin Cities Auto Show
LOCATION: Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 Second Ave. South, Minneapolis
DATES: Friday, March 31 through Saturday, April 8, 2023
HOURS: Fridays, Saturdays, Wednesday, Thursday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Monday and Tuesday 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
TICKETS: Adults (16+) $12 online ($15 onsite)
Teens (11 – 15) $6
Children 10 and under FREE
Tuesday, April 4 FREE for Veterans and Current Military
$7 off for Family and Friends
Half-Price Wednesday (April 5) $7.50
$3 off coupons are available at GMADA metro member auto dealerships.
WEBSITE: TwinCitiesAutoShow.com
SOCIAL: Facebook and Snapchat: TCAutoShow
Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok: @tcautoshow
PRODUCER: The Twin Cities Auto Show is a production of the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Dealers Association (GMADA). GMADA is an organization consisting of more than 130 new car and truck franchised dealers in the Greater Minneapolis and St. Paul area.
The 2022 GMADA Chair is Pat Sutter from Borton Volvo.
GMADA President is Scott Lambert.
The Twin Cities Auto Show Director is Mary Velline.
CONTACT: Molly Mulvehill Steinke, Nemer Fieger, molly@nemerfieger.com, 612-309-1677
Mike Haberman, Nemer Fieger, mhaberman@nemerfieger.com, 612-432-9898

ROYAL PURPLE® IS OFFICAL ENGINE OIL OF FORMULA DRIFT FOR 2023 & 2024

Helping propel Formula DRIFT into its 20th anniversary year
Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (70)
Photo credit: Kinnon Marshall.

INDIANAPOLIS (December 8, 2022) – Royal Purple® continues its partnership with Formula DRIFT for 2023 & 2024 as the Official Engine Oil. The partnership was announced at this year’s Performance Racing Industry Tradeshow (PRI) in Indianapolis. Known as the “Synthetic Expert,” Royal Purple® focuses exclusively on developing products that significantly outperform other synthetic and mineral-based oils, and puts them to the test in high-performance and high-profile motorsports series such as Formula DRIFT.

“We are honored to have Royal Purple® return as the official engine oil of Formula DRIFT for a fourth and fifth year, especially as we celebrate our landmark 20th anniversary this coming year,” said Ryan Sage, president of Formula DRIFT. "The Royal Purple brand has become widely recognized among the drivers and our fans around the world.”

The 2023-2024 Royal Purple® partnership will again include a contingency sponsorship for the Formula DRIFT PROSPEC Championship. As part of the program, Royal Purple® will award prize money to the first three PROSPEC contingency participants at each round. This will be available regardless of whether they reach the podium, provided the competition car displays the new Royal Purple® and Formula DRIFT decal. The top 2023 Royal Purple® contingency driver will receive an added performance incentive at the end of the season.

“Formula DRIFT drivers push their engines to extremes, and many count on Royal Purple® to give them the extra performance they crave,” said Rusty Waples, director of brand & product management for Royal Purple®. “Maximizing performance is what has given Royal Purple® street cred since 1986 and what fuels our research and development team to continue to find new ways to edge out the competition.”

2023 also kicks off with Formula DRIFT PRO Championship driver Dylan Hughes behind the wheel of the Royal Purple® BMW for the fourth consecutive year. With the help of Royal Purple®, Dylan captured two podium finishes in 2022, and finished sixth overall. More good turns are expected in 2023 both on and off the track with partnerships on custom car builds and product giveaways.

“We’ve had such a good time with Royal Purple® for the last three years, so to continue into 2023 and beyond is amazing,” said Dylan. “We’ve had zero issues running Royal Purple®

synthetic oils at over 1000hp, and the support from their R&D team has been incredible, too.”

Royal Purple® produces a wide range of quality products for nearly every consumer, commercial, and industrial application. Retailers that stock Royal Purple® products include Walmart, Amazon, O’Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA Auto Parts, AutoZone, and Advance Auto Parts. To explore the full line of products, visit www.RoyalPurple.com. For sales questions, please contact RoyalPurpleConsumer@calumetspecialty.com.

More information on Royal Purple can be found at www.RoyalPurple.com .

2023 FORMULA DRIFT SEASON

The 2023 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship kicks off on April 7-8 at Streets of Long Beach. Visit www.formulad.com for the 2023 schedule, event details, ticket purchases, driver profiles, and livestream information.

ABOUT ROYAL PURPLE

Headquartered in Porter, Texas, Royal Purple is a global synthetic oil leader who tests, develops, and produces a wide range of high-performance lubricants for nearly every consumer and industrial application. Their proprietary Synerlec additive technology increases oil film strength, allowing them to significantly outperform other synthetic and mineral-based oils for vehicles, racing, commercial trucking and fleets, as well as industrial applications including maritime, plants and manufacturing, mining, wind energy, and agriculture operations. Key benefits of their products include: better performance, cleaner operation, lower cost of ownership, better mileage, and fewer oil changes. Just to name a few. Royal Purple brand products are manufactured by Calumet Branded Products, LLC a wholly owned subsidiary of Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ: CLMT).

Explore the full line of Royal Purple products at www.royalpurple.com/all-products .

FOLLOW ROYAL PURPLE ONLINE

royalpurple.com

instagram.com/royal_purple

facebook.com/RoyalPurpleFans

twitter.com/Royal_Purple

youtube.com/c/RoyalPurpleLLC

ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Formula DRIFT is recognized as the leading international drifting championship. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has evolved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges the driver’s skills while demanding a great deal from their vehicle in terms of power and strength. Formula DRIFT provides a series for the best professional drifters from around the globe to compete for the coveted title of Formula DRIFT Champion. As the first official drifting series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme, attracting drift fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life; and has established itself as the global leader for the sport.

For a competition schedule, ticket information, special content and livestream, please visit www.formulad.com .

MEDIA CONTACTS

Royal Purple: Laura Aplin (laura@aplingruber.com)

Formula DRIFT: Greg Emmerson (greg@theidagency.com)

Purolator Celebrates 100 Years of Filters in 2023

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (71)

Raleigh, N.C.- December 6, 2022- Purolator Filters (a division of MANN+HUMMEL – the leading global expert in filtration) announced today that the company will be celebrating 100 years in business upon the arrival of 2023.

Over the last century, Purolator has adopted innovative ways to grow and advance the filters the company provides. The first oil filtration system was created by Ernest Sweetland in 1923, and was named “Purolator,”- short for “pure oil later.” Notable development continued when the first “spin-on” oil filter was created in 1955, and again in 1996 when the PureONE oil filter was introduced.

Purolator’s most recent advancement came with the creation of PurolatorBOSS® Premium Cabin Air Filters with Febreze Freshness. This filter blocks and controls odors, while also preventing mold and bacteria growth on the filter. This maximum performance filtration technology also filters out virus aerosols, a vital defense mechanism in today’s environment. Additionally, it blocks up to 99% of fine particles like soot, dirt, pollen, and other allergens.

In 2012, the global filtration company MANN+HUMMEL acquired Purolator Filters, strengthening the company’s position in the filtration industry. As part of the MANN+HUMMEL group, Purolator focuses on economical utilization of resources in product development, purchasing, and waste disposal.

As 2023 approaches, Purolator has more than 2,000 filtration part numbers for automotive, light truck, and heavy-duty applications. The company continues to evolve and distribute innovative products for the automotive industry while also offering first-class service and revolutionizing the future of filtration technology.

“Helping customers understand the day-to-day impact that filters have on their vehicle’s performance is one of Purolator’s top priorities,” said Daryl Benton, vice president of sales and marketing for the automotive aftermarket with MANN+HUMMEL. “For almost a century, we have strived to educate on the importance of vehicle filtration products and provide buyers with ample resources to access this leading-edge technology. “We are thrilled to celebrate our 100-year milestone in 2023. Through continued hard work and diligence, Purolator will thrive for another 100 years.”

To read more about Purolator’s products, visit www.PurolatorNOW.com .

MISS SPEED CHANNEL? THE NEW SPEEDTUBE WILL SATIATE YOUR NEED FOR SPEED

One Word…One Place for all Your Favorite Classic Automotive and Motorsports TV Shows Along with New Content Provided by the Best Creators in the World

Enlarge press release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2022

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (74)
Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew will be the keynote speakers on opening day of the 2022 SEMA Show. The cast will discuss their inaugural television series and what it’s been like to immerse themselves into the car culture.
Kevin Hart's Muscle Car Crew Joins 2022 SEMA Show
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 13, 2022) – Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew will be at the 2022 SEMA Show, where they will entertain Showgoers with expanded stories about their inaugural television series and what it’s been like to immerse themselves into the car culture. As keynote speakers on the SEMA Show’s opening day, cast members will join television personality Chris Jacobs at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022, at the Paradise Event Center.
With Jacobs hosting the interview, the discussion will tap into the unique passion that unites the automotive industry. Like the MotorTrend series that chronicled their experience, the SEMA Show keynote address is about having a good time and making connections.
“Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew represents SEMA’s membership and the tremendous enthusiasm we all have for this culture,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “Their story is driven by passion and a deep love for all things automotive. That passion shows through on the screen, and it will come through even more live on stage at the SEMA Show.”
The keynote address is part of a new component of the 2022 SEMA Show Education Program. Five keynote addresses will be held during the week, with each keynote address featuring iconic industry personalities who will educate while entertaining. Speakers will include car enthusiasts, thought leaders, innovators, and entertainers who will bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to help elevate and strengthen attendees’ business and personal growth strategies.
Key members of Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew kick off the series on Tuesday, Nov. 1. Legendary NFL running back Emmitt Smith, who became a NASCAR Xfinity Series team co-owner last summer, anchors the week as the keynote speaker for Friday, Nov. 4. Other keynotes will be announced at a later date.
The SEMA Show is a trade-only event where manufacturers, buyers, and industry professionals go to connect and do business. The upcoming event takes place Nov. 1-4, 2022, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For details about the SEMA Show Education Program and a complete schedule of seminars available, visit www.semashow.com.
About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks.
Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 06, 2022

The new eBay Motors Experience feature at the 2022 SEMA Show will anchor the outdoor area of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (75)

eBay Motors Experience Brings Industry Products to Life at
2022 SEMA Show

-- New feature includes extreme performance, immersive ride-alongs, up-close builds --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 6, 2022) – The 2022 SEMA Show will include a brand-new feature—the eBay Motors Experience, where attendees will be able to experience the industry’s products live, in action. Located in more than 100,000-sq.-ft. of space in front of the Las Vegas Convention Center, eBay Motors Experience will anchor the outdoor area and welcome Showgoers with dynamic, experiential activities as soon as they arrive onsite.

The eBay Motors Experience will consist of multiple activities taking place simultaneously. Showgoers will be able to witness extreme performance at the Hoonigan Burnyard, take part in immersive ride-alongs, and get up-close to some of the industry’s most coveted vehicle builds.

“The eBay Motors Experience will be the center of the action at this year’s Show,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “It will be set up so that attendees are able to engage with the vehicles and the products in a way that they’ve never been able to do before. Showgoers are going to feel the impact of the feature immediately when they arrive at the Show.”

The eBay Motors Experience is open to all credentialed SEMA Showgoers during the event, Tuesday-Friday, Nov. 1-4. To learn more about the 2022 SEMA Show or to register for the event, visit www.semashow.com or download the official SEMA Show mobile app.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 04, 2022

Pennzoil’s “Dare to Perform” Experience at the 2022 SEMA Show will feature dozens of industry influencers, celebrities, and industry education that will help professionals in the automotive aftermarket.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (76)

SEMA Show’s Pennzoil “Dare to Perform” Experience Combines Fun Entertainment with Valuable Education
-- John Hennessey, Chelsea DeNofa, Vaughn Gittin Jr., Adam LZ, and Joey Logano among the celebrities scheduled to appear --
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 4, 2022) – With dozens of industry influencers, celebrities, noteworthy builds, games, prizes, and activities, Pennzoil’s “Dare to Perform” Experience at the 2022 SEMA Show combines fun, energetic entertainment with industry education that will help professionals in the automotive aftermarket.
In the 12,150-square-foot area located in Booth 81059 just outside the main entrance of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Showgoers will be able to connect with top names, including John Hennessey, Chelsea DeNofa, Vaughn Gittin Jr., Adam LZ, Joey Logano, and more. Meanwhile, games and contests will be taking place, and technical experts will explain and conduct live demonstrations showcasing how motor oils protect a vehicle’s engine.
“The Pennzoil ‘Dare to Perform’ Experience is a fun and engaging way for professionals at the SEMA Show to build career-boosting connections and learn what’s new in the industry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The interactive demonstrations and in-person activities contribute to an engaging experience that you can only get at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.”
Open to all credentialed SEMA Showgoers, the Pennzoil “Dare to Perform” Experience will have something happening throughout the week. Complimentary coffee will be available during Pennzoil’s “Perfect Pour,” Tuesday-Thursday, Nov. 1-3, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. The celebrity appearance schedule will be posted at www.pennzoil.com/sema, as well as on www.semashow.com and through the official SEMA Show mobile app.
To learn about all the interactive and engaging features at the 2022 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 1-4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, visit www.semashow.com.
About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 03, 2022

The OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational is growing its activation at the 2022 SEMA Show by hosting three of its five segments during the Nov. 1-4 trade show.
OPTIMA BRINGS EXPANDED HIGH-PERFORMANCE ACTION
TO THE 2022 SEMA SHOW

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (77)
-- SEMA Showgoers Get Front-Row Seats as the Top 100 Road-Worthy Vehicles Compete for the Title of the Ultimate Street Car --
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 3, 2022) – The OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI) is bringing live, action-packed excitement to the SEMA Show, growing its activation with three of its five segments unfolding during the 55th annual trade show, Nov. 1-4, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nev.
The competition’s Peak Performance Challenge (a timed segment) and the Lingenfelter Design & Engineering Challenge took place at the SEMA Show for the first time in 2021. Those two segments will return to this year’s SEMA Show, while the Autocross portion of the competition makes its debut at the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Bronze Lot during the exclusive trade-only event. The remainder of the OUSCI continues Nov. 5-7, 2022, at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
“As an expanded feature at the 2022 SEMA Show, OPTIMA’s Ultimate Street Car Invitational is an iconic competition that will showcase the aftermarket’s potential,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “With modifications that enhance the performance of the vehicles, the competing cars and trucks embody what the SEMA Show is all about. It’s going to be exciting to watch the action up close and in person.”
With six regional qualifying events spanning more than eight months, the OUSCI includes the country’s top road-worthy modified vehicles. Top performers from the regional events receive coveted invitations to compete in the final competition, with a handful of spots reserved for vehicles selected at the SEMA Show.
Since 2008 when the OUSCI debuted, an additional highlight for Showgoers has been a display of all 100 competition vehicles at the SEMA Show in an area known as Optima Alley. At the end of the Show, the vehicles parade out of the convention center and make their way to Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where they compete in a five-part competition. Last year two of the segments kicked off the competition and took place at the SEMA Show. This year, the SEMA Show will host three of the five segments.
“It’s rare to be able to witness so many vehicles push the limits of performance and agility,” said Gattuso. “To see the competition unfold live is exhilarating and inspiring.”
The Bronze Lot is located in the outdoor area south of South Hall. For details about the 2022 SEMA Show, including a floor plan showing where the Bronze Lot is or to apply for credentials to attend the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.
About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks.

Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2022

Larry Chen, ChrisFix, TJ Hunt, Adam LZ, and Alex Taylor are the five finalists for the 2022 SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award. The new award recognizes influencers who have made a positive impact on the automotive industry.

SEMA ANNOUNCES FINALISTS FOR INAUGURAL AUTOMOTIVE INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR AWARD

-- The new SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award will be presented at the 2022 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet to an influencer who has made a positive impact on the automotive industry --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept. 29, 2022) – SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) announces the finalists for its first-ever SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award. The new program recognizes content creators and social media influencers who have significantly supported and helped build enthusiasm for the automotive industry and car culture. The new award will be presented to one of the top-five finalists at the 2022 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet to honor an influencer who has built an engaged audience and used his or her platform to positively impact car enthusiasts of all ages.

The five finalists for the 2022 SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award are Larry Chen, ChrisFix, TJ Hunt, Adam LZ, and Alex Taylor.

The award is a result of the rise of content creators’ and social media influencers’ impact on the industry. Finalists for the award were selected based on their presence and influence across social media channels, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and more. The coveted SEMA Industry Awards Banquet will host the finalists and recognize their impact on growing the $50.9 billion automotive specialty-equipment industry.

“These influencers and creators have built up a tremendous voice to help promote, shape, and protect the automotive industry,” said SEMA Chairman James Lawrence. “Each of them has the ability to share their stories and connect with their fans in a personal and impactful way. They also generate tons of excitement and enthusiasm for the automotive industry. They are a big part of being an automotive enthusiast today, and it’s time we recognize them for their contributions.”

Fueled by the SEMA Show’s energy and passion, influencers will head to Las Vegas during the first week of November to connect with manufacturers and builders, learn about new products, witness vehicle unveilings, and attend industry gatherings while sharing their experiences for the world to see.

“Automotive influencers embody the passion that makes being a car person so special,” continued Lawrence. “The content they create is a great representation of what car culture is all about.”

The SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award winner will be announced at the newly revamped SEMA Industry Awards Banquet on Thursday, Nov. 3. The banquet, which is the annual celebration of the specialty-equipment industry, will also provide the backdrop for the presentation of other industry awards, including SEMA Person of the Year and SEMA Gen-III Innovator of the Year.

About SEMA

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit For more information, visit www.semashow.com or www.sema.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 15, 2022

SEMA Ignited, the official SEMA Show after-party, will feature a rolling car show, music, food, entertainment, and exhibitions, as well as limited Friday Experience packages that include Friday access to SEMA Show.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (78)

SEMA Show Concludes With Expanded After-Party

-- SEMA Ignited features rolling car show, music, food, entertainment, and exhibitions --

-- Limited Friday Experience package includes general admission to SEMA Ignited,
Friday access to SEMA Show, and one-year SEMA Individual Membership --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept. 15, 2022) – After the SEMA Show concludes, the iconic cars and trucks from the business-to-business event will emerge from the Las Vegas Convention Center and make their way to SEMA Ignited – the official SEMA Show after-party where consumers will have their first chance to see the one-of-a-kind vehicles that debuted at the world’s premier automotive trade gathering earlier that week. Taking place at the convention center’s West Hall Parking Lot from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm PT on Friday, November 4, SEMA Ignited is a combination of a car show, parade, music, food, entertainment, and exhibitions all rolled into what becomes the ultimate automotive celebration.

Now in its eighth year, SEMA Ignited is where consumers see, hear, and – in some cases – get up-close and connect with award-winning vehicles and their owners. With more vendors and exhibitors than ever before, the 2022 SEMA Ignited is where car enthusiasts will be able to discover the newest trends, learn about new products, meet industry celebrities, and experience the excitement of the growing aftermarket firsthand. In addition to demonstrations from Formula DRIFT drivers from throughout the world, this year’s event will include simultaneous live attractions and activations. One of this year’s main attractions is the Urias Globe of Death, a group of daredevil motorcycle riders who perform jaw-dropping stunts in a mesh sphere ball.

“There is something for everyone at SEMA Ignited,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “As the official after-party of the SEMA Show, guests of all ages can come and experience the best of the SEMA Show, see the custom builds, meet automotive celebrities, and enjoy live entertainment. Our exhibitors and builders are anxious to meet with the public and show off their latest products and unique builds.”

General admission tickets allow access into SEMA Ignited. Car enthusiasts may choose to purchase upgraded tickets for reserved seating where they’ll be able to sit and watch the SEMA Cruise and performances from Formula DRIFT and the Urias Globe of Death. A limited number of Friday Experience packages are available for general admission into SEMA Ignited, as well as entrance into the SEMA Show on Friday, November 4, and comes with a one-year SEMA Individual Membership.

“The SEMA Ignited Friday Experience is a rare opportunity for gearheads to experience the trade-only SEMA Show and engage with the industry as SEMA Individual Members,” said Gattuso. “Through the Friday Experience, enthusiasts will get a behind-the-scenes look at what industry professionals are doing at the SEMA Show and witness the trends as they are happening.”

All SEMA Showgoers will be able to attend SEMA Ignited with their Show credentials. For more information about SEMA Ignited, visit www.semaignited.com. To learn more about the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

The 2022 SEMA Show New Products Showcase will highlight products in 18 categories, including new categories focused on electric vehicles and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (79)

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (80)

2022 SEMA Show New Products Showcase Expands

-- Top Buyer and Media Destination to Include New Categories Focused on Electric Vehicle (EV) and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Products --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Sept. 13, 2022) – Consistently voted as the No. 1 destination by SEMA Show buyers and media, the 2022 New Products Showcase will expand to include two new product categories. Showgoers will find products related to electric vehicles (EV) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) along with products in 16 other categories, in what is the world’s largest display of new automotive aftermarket products.

Accessible exclusively to SEMA Showgoers on November 1-4, 2022, the New Products Showcase is the automotive aftermarket industry’s most comprehensive collection of new and trending products. SEMA Show attendees visit the area to discover and see parts and accessories before they hit the market. A Featured Products component includes items that may not qualify as new; the product may have been on the market for more than a year but is amongst an exhibitor’s top products.

“Through the SEMA Show New Products Showcase, buyers, retailers, and distributors can easily discover and learn about all the hot products that they may want to carry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “They will find details about the products, including the exhibitor’s booth number. They can then connect directly with the manufacturer on the Show floor to learn more. It’s no surprise that SEMA Show buyers rely on the New Products Showcase to help them stock their shelves.”

Details on all the products from the Showcase are also included in the SEMA Show mobile app, giving attendees a year-round resource to help them after the Show. The mobile app’s product scanning feature enables attendees to flag items of interest and create custom lists of noteworthy products. Only at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas will attendees be able to connect with all product experts from the exhibiting companies for quality one-on-one discussions, demos, and presentations.

Participation in the New Products Showcase, available as a benefit to SEMA Show exhibitors, is easy and affordable. All exhibitors qualify to submit one product entry at no cost. Subsequent entries range from $75-$150 each, depending on the submission date, and there is no limit to the number of entries. New this year is an on-site freight delivery service to make it easier than ever for exhibitors in West, North, and Central Halls to participate.

Through the new service, exhibitors drop off their products at a nearby designated area in their respective hall, and then coordinate to meet the product at the New Products Check-In area in South Hall.

Qualifying products may also be recognized as a Best New Product. Winners and runner-ups in 18 categories – including the new EV and ADAS categories – will be announced and presented at the Kickoff Breakfast on Tuesday, November 1, just before the official opening of the SEMA Show. Additionally, all products in the Showcase are professionally photographed. The photos are often used by outside media and helps brand awareness.

“Exhibitors that participate in the New Products Showcase report much higher success than those that do not participate,” said Gattuso. “Research tells us that exhibitors with products in the Showcase see more buyers in their booths and receive more media coverage than those who do not participate in the Showcase.”

A nearby transportation hub that includes taxi and shuttle drop-off, as well as an entry point for the Las Vegas Convention Center underground tunnel, makes it easy for attendees to visit the Showcase. More than 2,000 product entries are expected to be included in this year’s Showcase.

Exhibitors can enter the SEMA Show New Products Showcase by visiting www.semashow.com/new-products-rules . To register to attend the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com/register .

The four-day SEMA Show is a trade-only event that connects manufacturers of automotive specialty products with buyers from all over the world. Taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, exhibitors come to the annual event to debut new products that enhance the performance, styling, and functionality of cars, trucks, and SUVs.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

Chip Foose created original pieces of art that will be woven into signage throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center to help give the 2022 SEMA Show a new look.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (81)

INDUSTRY LEGEND CHIP FOOSE NAMED OFFICIAL SEMA SHOW ARTIST
-- Foose's prominent artistry will help give Showgoers a new experience at the 2022 SEMA Show and beyond --
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Aug. 18, 2022) – Legendary car builder and industry icon Chip Foose will help give the 2022 SEMA Show a new look as the official artist of this year's trade show. Foose created original pieces of art that will be woven into signage throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center and in marketing materials for the Show to help reflect each segment of the industry in a special and authentic way.
“This opportunity is allowing me to be creative in a different fashion. Usually my drawings have been a tool to build the final art, which are the cars that we create at Foose design, but these drawings are the final art to be used at the SEMA show,” said Foose. “I'm excited to entertain and connect with SEMA Show attendees in a new way."
SEMA Show officials feature a new artist every three years to add a level of authenticity to something that most trade shows in the world leave to a sign designer. Foose is the fourth celebrated automotive artist—joining Alex Carmona, Max Grundy, and Ed Tillrock—whose artwork will give Showgoers a new experience at the event.
“We are honored to have Chip Foose as our SEMA Show artist for the next three years and see his creative side in a different and new way—outside the car and on paper,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “Chip has gone above and beyond with this original artwork for the Show, which will help build the best automotive trade show experience in the world. We are thrilled to share these incredible images as they will truly bring the Show to the next level.”
Foose has become a household name in and out of the automotive industry. He has appeared in several television shows and has won numerous awards and accolades for his vehicle builds, including becoming the youngest person to be inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame in 1997. Foose was also inducted into the Darryl Starbird Rod & Custom Car Museum Hall of Fame in 2002, the Grand National Roadster Show Hall of Fame in 2003, the Detroit Autorama "Circle of Champions” Hall of Fame in 2012, the San Francisco Rod and Custom Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2005, and the SEMA Hall of Fame in 2016. To learn more about Foose, visit www.chipfoose.com.
The 2022 SEMA Show, taking place November 1-4 in Las Vegas, is an annual four-day trade event that makes it possible for manufacturers of automotive aftermarket parts and accessories to connect with and conduct business with buyers from all over the world. It's the best place to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends, and develop essential skills by attending SEMA’s career development and business improvement education sessions and seminars hosted by top industry professionals. To learn more and register to attend, visit www.semashow.com.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

SEMA Show attendees can learn about current and future trends, proven business strategies, and new opportunities from industry leaders and experts as part of the 2022 SEMA Show Education Program.

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SEMA SHOW TO FEATURE ELEVATED EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM THAT FOCUSES ON PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

-- Attendees can choose from more than 70 sessions in 14 tracks that will take immediate returns to the next level --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2022) – Dozens of industry leaders and experts will take the stage at the 2022 SEMA Show Education Program, where attendees will have the opportunity to learn about current and future trends, proven business strategies, and new opportunities while at the annual event taking place in Las Vegas, in November.

Beginning on Monday, October 31 – the day before the official opening of the four-day SEMA Show – the 2022 SEMA Show Education Program will include more than 70 free and premium sessions within 14 tracks. Showgoers may choose individual sessions across different tracks, mixing and matching the offerings to create a personalized agenda that meets one’s individual needs.

“The Education Program is one of the SEMA Show’s key pillars, and it’s always been highly rated by participants,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA Director of Education. “We challenged ourselves and pushed to make the program better than ever. We focused heavily on bringing in elite subject matter experts and high-profile industry leaders. SEMA Show attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to hear from industry experts while at the Show.”

New this year are four sessions focused on challenges and opportunities associated with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. The first DEI session, "Diversity and Inclusion: How You Can Advance Equal Opportunity in Your Workplace," takes place Tuesday, November 1, and will presented by James Pogue, Ph.D., President & CEO of JP Enterprises. Part of the Business Management Track, each DEI session will feature thought leaders, skill-building seminars, networking, inspiring role models, and action-oriented content.

“Celebrity Insights,” moderated by African American Racers Association Cofounder Chris Harris, features automotive celebrities, legends, and luminaries with diverse backgrounds and experiences. The one-hour discussion will give attendees a glimpse into the lives of some of their favorite personalities. “Celebrity Insights” takes place on Friday, November 4, along with five other sessions that comprise the brand-new Enthusiast Track program.

Returning by popular demand is the Leadership Essentials Track, presented by Dale Carnegie. Consisting of six courses spread out over three days, the program can be taken as a whole or individually. Each course features acclaimed trainers from Dale Carnegie. Known for having a leadership, communications and sales program that improves both individual and business performance, Dale Carnegie Training focuses on core human relations principles and is said to transform lives.

Also continuing in 2022 are comprehensive programs from partners, including the Society of Collision Repairers (SCRS), the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), and the Tire Industry Association (TIA).

“The SEMA Show has a lot to offer, from seeing new products and vehicle builds, meeting with manufacturers, learning from experts and developing meaningful relationships that you can only get from an in-person event,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “We encourage Showgoers to take advantage of all the elements of the SEMA Show, so that they get the greatest ROI.”

All sessions are held in meeting rooms at the Las Vegas Convention Center, making it easy and convenient for attendees to schedule seminars between meetings with exhibitors. Registrants can sign up for the education program while applying for SEMA Show credentials at www.semashow.com/register. Those who are already approved for credentials can add education sessions by going into their SEMA Show dashboard. Sessions will also be able to be added through the SEMA Show mobile app. This year’s information will be updated in the mobile app in August, but the app can be downloaded now from the app store.

The SEMA Show is the world premier automotive trade show, featuring new products and trends in vehicle customization. Complete details about the November 1-4, 2022, SEMA Show taking place in Las Vegas, NV, are available at www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

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The new SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award will be presented at the 2022 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet to an influencer who has has made a positive impact on the automotive industry.

SEMA TO RECOGNIZE SOCIAL MEDIA CREATORS WHO HAVE HELPED BUILD ENTHUSIASM FOR CAR CULTURE WITH AUTOMOTIVE INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR AWARD

-- The new award will be presented at the 2022 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet and honor a top influencer who has made a positive impact on car enthusiasts --
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Aug. 4, 2022) – SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) announces a new program that recognizes content creators and social media influencers who have significantly impacted the automotive industry and car culture. The new SEMA Automotive Influencer of the Year award will be presented at the 2022 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet to honor an influencer who has built an engaged audience and uses his or her platform to positively impact car enthusiasts of all ages.
The award is a result of the rise and impact of content creators and social media influencers on the industry. Finalists for the award will be selected based on their presence and influence across social media channels, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and will be recognized for the first time at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet.
“So many automotive influencers have built up a tremendous voice to help promote, shape, and protect the automotive industry,” said SEMA Chairman James Lawrence. “Each of them has the ability to share their stories and connect with their fans in a unique and impactful way. They also generate tons of excitement and enthusiasm for the automotive industry. They are a big part of being an automotive enthusiast today, and it’s time we recognized them for their contributions.”
Fueled by the SEMA Show’s energy and passion, hundreds of influencers head to Las Vegas each year during the first week of November to connect with manufacturers and builders, learn about new products, witness vehicle unveilings, and attend industry gatherings while sharing their experiences for the world to see.
Five finalists for the Automotive Influencer of the Year award will be announced in September and then honored on-stage at the 2022 SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet in November. As part of the Banquet’s celebratory recognition and in front of the industry’s most involved influential leaders, videos will play to highlight each finalists’ positive impact and pay tribute to their unwavering passion for the automotive culture before a final winner is revealed.
“Automotive influencers embody the passion that makes being a car person so special,” continued Lawrence. “The content they create is a great representation of what car culture is all about.”
Finalists and the winner will be based on their creativity of original, entertaining, and informative automotive media content. Qualifications also include a loyal and substantial following of passionate and engaged automotive enthusiasts and having used a social media platform to promote positive automotive content that has benefited the automotive aftermarket and culture.
To submit a recommendation or for more information on the award, visit www.sema.org/influencer-of-the-year.
About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com , or www.performanceracing.com.

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Registration for the 2022 PRI Trade Show, the most influential business event in racing, is now open at PRI2022.com/Attend.

2022 PRI TRADE SHOW REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
The PRI Show is open exclusively to PRI Members who work in the motorsports industry.

ALISO VIEJO, Calif. (July 12, 2022) – Attendee registration for the 2022 PRI Trade Show, scheduled for December 8-10 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in downtown Indianapolis, is now open at PRI2022.com/Attend.

The PRI Show is the world’s premier business event for the auto racing industry. It encompasses all forms of motorsports and attracts attendees from all 50 states and all over the world, including professional race teams, retail shops, warehouse distributors, engine builders, fabricators, dealers, installers, jobbers, and media.

Open to PRI Members who work in the motorsports industry, the PRI Show is the most influential business event in racing, featuring the newest parts and technology, access to countless manufacturers and service providers, and virtually unlimited opportunities to network face-to-face with industry leaders.

"Anticipation for the 2022 PRI Show is high following the success of last year's event, which proved that business, networking, and education is better when it's done in person," said PRI Trade Show Director Karin Davidson. "Tens of thousands of industry professionals will be looking to conduct business and discover new products at this year's Show."

The 2022 PRI Show will connect buyers with representatives from over 1,000 exhibiting companies who are eager to showcase their latest products, services, machinery, simulation and testing technologies, trailers, and more. Attendees will also have unmatched access to live demonstrations, numerous conferences and seminars that are unique to the PRI Show, and special features like the Featured Products Showcase, Machinery Row, EV Performance Zone, and the Content Creation Zone—all in a single location.

For the first time ever, only qualified industry professionals who are also PRI Members will be permitted to attend the PRI Show. This requirement will ensure that only the highest-quality buyers and attendees will be on hand to shop the latest racing and performance products and services. Individuals can sign up for PRI Membership as part of the online attendee registration process.

“PRI Membership is at the forefront of protecting the racing community and creating a unified voice for the industry,” said PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer. “The PRI Membership program has been developed for both businesses and individuals as a way for them to get in on the ground level with this critical advocacy for the industry and the way of life that we all love.”

PRI Membership supports race tracks and race events, helps promote motorsports to a growing audience, and supports advocacy efforts. Qualified industry professionals gain entrance to the PRI Show with the annual membership, as well as a range of exclusive year-round benefits. PRI Membership includes a subscription to the digital PRI Magazine and the weekly PRI eNewsletter. Members are also able to post on the PRI Jobs Board. And, they receive a discount on PRI merchandise at the PRI Show. To learn more about the racing industry's first-of-its-kind membership program, visit PerformanceRacing.com/Membership/Individual.

By registering early, attendees will ensure they receive their credentials before the Show—beginning in October—allowing them to save time and bypass lines at the on-site registration desk. To register for the 2022 PRI Show, secure hotel reservations, and RSVP for exclusive PRI Education seminars, visit www.PRI2022.com/Attend.

About Performance Racing Industry
Performance Racing Industry fuels the passion for motorsports by building, promoting and protecting the worldwide racing community. PRI supports the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies and businesses through legislative action and advocacy, its monthly business magazine Performance Racing Industry, and the world’s premier auto racing trade show, the PRI Trade Show. PRI also supports businesses by providing market research, education and best practices in motorsports business and racing technology. For more information, visit www.PerformanceRacing.com.

Product information and details for project vehicles displayed at the 2022 SEMA Show will be available by scanning its QR code using the SEMA Show mobile app.

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SEMA SHOW PROJECT VEHICLE INFORMATION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (July 7, 2022) – Product information and details for project vehicles displayed at the 2022 SEMA Show will be available at the click of a button. Through the SEMA Show mobile app, visitors will be able to scan QR codes that are on the vehicles and see comprehensive details about the build, including vehicle make, model, year, sponsors, and products.
Last year, all feature vehicles in common areas such as outside parking spaces or indoor lobbies had QR codes that could be scanned through the mobile app. This year, the option is expanding to include sponsored vehicles and booth vehicles that exhibitors submit applications for in advance.
"The feedback to the QR codes on the feature vehicles was so popular and well-received that we are expanding the option to allow Showgoers to scan and obtain information for even more vehicles at the SEMA Show,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “This is going to enhance the attendee experience and make it easier for buyers to connect with exhibitors.”
The Project Vehicle option in the SEMA Show mobile app will include the sponsoring exhibitor, booth number, products installed, and more. Vehicles are also listed by categories such as hot rod, off-road, sport compact, muscle car, luxury, lowrider, and more.
Applications for feature vehicle space is available as an exclusive benefit to Show exhibitors at www.semashow.com. All approved feature vehicles and sponsored vehicles are automatically included in the mobile app. Exhibitors must submit a booth vehicle application form in order for booth vehicles to be included in the mobile app.
The mobile app, which is automatically updated each year in the fall, can be downloaded for free. Learn more by visiting www.semashow.com.
About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org, 909/396-0289.

The 2022 SEMA Show will feature an expanded SEMA Electrified section that will include the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology.

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2022 SEMA SHOW TO HIGHLIGHT VEHICLE ELECTRIFICATION TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGIES
-- Expanded SEMA Electrified section will feature specialty-equipment solutions for a growing market --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (July 5, 2022) – The 2022 SEMA Show will feature an expanded SEMA Electrified section. Located in the North Hall, the specialized exhibit area will feature the latest advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology, including new products and solutions for EV platforms and conversions.

“The EV aftermarket is evolving quickly and continues to change; we’re curating a unique collection of the latest products related to electric vehicles and the aftermarket,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “SEMA Electrified will help businesses see the latest trends and understand how the EV market has evolved. Visitors will gain an understanding of the advancements and opportunities for the future.”

Although alternative powertrains currently represent just 1% of the 250 million cars, SUVs, and light-duty trucks in operation on American roads, sales and interest in EVs are increasing rapidly. According to recent SEMA Market Research, the electric market includes several areas of opportunity for the aftermarket, including the development of parts and products to aid in the conversion of older internal-combustion vehicles; building and modifying new project, racing, and purpose-built vehicles; and expertly accessorizing new OEM electric offerings. SEMA is dedicated to helping its member companies identify those opportunities and adapt to the growing segment of the industry.

While the dedicated SEMA Electrified section will highlight the endless possibilities in the electric market, EV projects and products will be displayed throughout the SEMA Show.

To learn more about the 2022 SEMA Show taking place November 1-4, in Las Vegas, Nev., visit www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

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Event Features Set for Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals in St. Paul
Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (91)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 30, 2022
Event Features Set for Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals in St. Paul
ST. PAUL, Minn. (June 30, 2022) — A wide array of event features will entertain attendees and participants at the Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals, Friday, July 15 through Sunday, July 17 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, Minn.
Always a highlight for participants and spectators alike at the St. Paul Street Machine Summer Nationals is QA1 Autocross, which will challenge driver’s skills on a course with tight turns and tough competition.
All weekend long, high-performance street machines, hot rods, street trucks and muscle cars will take to the QA1 Cruise Route inside the Fairgrounds to show off their rides.
The Dyno Challenge will test the true muscle of vehicles, measuring both horsepower and torque. The Burnout Competition will light up the main grandstand on Sunday afternoon with screaming tires and plenty of smoke filling the air.
Numerous Pro-Judged Awards will be handed out in a variety of categories during the Show-N-Shine Contest. Back again this year is the Modern Muscle category for vehicles from the year 2012 to 2022, along with a new Import class for foreign vehicles. An Editor's Choice Award will be presented by Street Muscle Magazine from Power Auto Media.
Attendees can also shop the Performance Marketplace with industry-leading brands, offering the latest products and services, many offering special “Show Only” pricing.
Spectators can save money and time by purchasing discount tickets in advance online at www.streetmachinenationals.net. Tickets are $12 online (ages, 13+) through July 14, with children (ages 12-under) free. New this year, a Weekend Pass is available for $19 in advance and is only available online through July 14.
At the Gate, a 1-Day Adult ticket (ages 13+) is $17, with children ages 12-under free.
Participants can save when they register their vehicle before July 13 as the pre-registration price is $50. On-site registration will take place July 14-17 and is $65.
The Street Machine Nationals are presented by Continental Tire, along with sponsorship from QA1, FVP Battery, McLeod and George’s Texaco A+ Towing.
For more information on the Street Machine Summer Nationals at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net .

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals this Weekend in Du Quoin

DUQUOIN, Ill. (June 22, 2022) — The Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals are this weekend at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Friday, June 24 through Sunday, June 26.
A fun-filled weekend awaits the whole family, featuring some of the most unique hot rods, muscle cars, street machines and street trucks ever built.
Pro Street Alley will spotlight some of the most stunning and innovative Pro Street cars ever built. The Pro Street category has a rich and storied history at the Du Quoin Street Machine Nationals. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Pro Street builders were very popular and built numerous award-winning cars.
The Performance Marketplace will feature industry-leading brands with the latest parts, products and services, with many vendors offering special “Show-Only” pricing. For the “Do-It-Yourselfer,” the Performance Marketplace is a must-see for that next automotive project.
Again this year, the Egyptian Antique Auto Club will be hosting a Swap Meet. Vendors at the Swap Meet will be offering used auto parts, tools and automotive collectibles.
Street Machine Nationals participants can take part in the Continental Tire Burnout Contest and the Dyno Challenge, showing off the true performance of their vehicles. The Continental Tire Cruise Route will also provide the opportunity for participants to show off their rides.
Numerous Pro-Judged Awards will be handed out in a variety of categories during the Street Machine Nationals as part of the Show-N-Shine Awards, including the widely popular Modern Muscle Award for vehicles from the year 2000 and newer.
For more information on the Continental Tire Street Machine Nationals, to purchase discount tickets in advance and/or to register a vehicle, visit www.streetmachinenationals.net

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The SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, held Tuesday morning, November 1, before the start of the 2022 SEMA Show, will honor the Best New Products at the SEMA Show and recognize the Manufacturer of the Year and the new Channel Partner of the Year.

SEMA INDUSTRY AWARDS EXPAND TO RECOGNIZE CONTRIBUTIONS
OF GROWING COMMUNITY

-- New Channel Partner of the Year evolves from previous WD of the Year award --
-- Nominations now open for all SEMA Industry Awards until July 15 --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (June 21, 2022) – Updates to the SEMA Industry Awards reflect changes in the automotive specialty-equipment industry and give winners greater recognition for their contributions.

As ecommerce expands and data-driven transactions become more routine, the SEMA Warehouse Distributor of the Year award has evolved and is rebranded as the new Channel Partner of the Year award. This award honors the contributions of sales, distributors, retailers, and ecommerce channel(s) in the industry, while still continuing to recognize beneficial efforts by distribution companies as they support retailers.

The Channel Partner of the Year award, along with the Manufacturer of the Year award, will be presented for the first time at the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast on Tuesday morning, November 1, before the SEMA Show officially opens. Previously known as the New Products Awards Breakfast, the morning event on the first day of the Show makes it possible for winners to promote the honor while the industry is gathered in Las Vegas, and makes it easy for the industry to connect and honor the winners all week long.

Other industry awards, including the SEMA Person of the Year and GEN-III Innovator of the Year, will be presented at the Thursday evening SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet. Nominations for all four awards are now being accepted at www.sema.org/awards.

“The SEMA Industry Awards represent the industry, and as the industry evolves, we’re pleased to be able to evolve the awards as well,” said Chris Standifer, SEMA Project Manager of Recognition Programs. “We’re also excited to recognize the valuable contributions of leading companies at the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast for the first time this year. As businesses connect throughout the week of the Show, it will be great for winning companies to be able to be recognized in Las Vegas.”

Nominating an individual or business for a SEMA Industry Award is the best way to show appreciation for one’s significant and positive impact on the specialty-equipment market. Submit a nomination by July 15 at www.sema.org/awards

About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $50.9 billion specialty-automotive industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. Association resources include market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, as well as leading trade shows such as the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV, and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis, IN. For more information, visit www.sema.org , www.semashow.com or www.performanceracing.com.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 16, 2022
SAVE THE DATE: Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals in St. Paul, July 15-17
WHAT:
The Continental Tire Street Machine Summer Nationals rolls into into the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, Friday, July 15th through Sunday, July 17th. The Street Machine Summer Nationals is a celebration of horsepower that draws some of the most unique muscle cars in the world. Industry-leading brands will be showcased in the Performance Marketplace, many offer special “Show Only” pricing. The Show-N-Shine contest will feature pro judging in a wide array of categories.
Event Features:
QA1 Autocross – Driving skills challenge course w/ tight turns and tough competition
40+ Pro-Judged Awards as part of the Show-N-Shine Contest
Continental Tire Burnout Contest
DYNO Challenge
Performance Marketplace – Leading Industry brands on-site with products and services on display
Cruising in the legendary Cruise Lane, all weekend
WHEN:
Friday, July 15, 2022 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday, July 16, 2022 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday, July 17, 2022 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
WHERE:
Minnesota State Fairgrounds | 1265 Snelling Avenue | St. Paul, MN 55108
TICKETS:
Discount tickets are available online at StreetMachineNationals.net.
Online: Adult Through July 14 (ages 13+): $12
Weekend Pass (Online Only Through July 14): $19
At the Gate: Adult (ages 13+): $17
Kids ages 12-under free
REGISTER:
Register vehicles at StreetMachineNationals.net. Pre-register by Wednesday, July 14 for $50. Register on-site starting Thursday, July 15 for $65. Registration includes one goody bag and weekend entry for car and 2 adults and any children 15-under, riding in the vehicle.
SPONSORS:
Continental Tire, QA1, FVP Battery, McLeod and George’s Texaco A+ Towing
INFO:
Visit us online at www.StreetMachineNationals.net . Find us on Facebook & Instagram @StreetMachineNationals and Snapchat @SMNationals.

Street Machine Photo Contest to Award Set of Continental Tires

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Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (103)

Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show, taking place November 1-4

at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is now open at www.semashow.com/register .

2022 SEMA SHOW REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
-- Industry professionals looking to grow their business and learn about the latest products and trends can register online at www.semashow.com/register --

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (May 2, 2022) – Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show, the premier gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Taking place November 1-4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2022 SEMA Show will build upon the positive momentum following last year’s event, which successfully connected the $47.8 billion industry in person in what was the largest automotive trade show in North America since the pandemic shut everything down in 2020.

"The SEMA Show is where industry professionals go to grow existing relationships, create new ones, and push their businesses forward," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. "Exhibitors are eager to showcase their products and services to the tens of thousands of qualified professionals in attendance."

Anticipation for this year's SEMA Show ramped up in recent weeks as exhibitors prepared to select their booth locations during Priority Space Selection, a weeks-long process taking place May 2-18 that will lay the foundation for this year’s floorplan. Access to the Priority Space Selection process is available at www.semashow.com, with floorplan updates happening every 10-15 minutes.

"Enthusiasm for the 2022 Show continues to exceed last year's, with more than 1 million square feet of exhibitor space already committed for the 2022 SEMA Show and confirmed spaces running 25% above last year," said Warren Kosikov, SEMA Vice President of Sales.

Attendees at the 2022 SEMA Show will learn about the latest products, trends, and technology in the industry from manufacturers exhibiting throughout the entire Las Vegas Convention Center, including the surrounding parking lots. Educational seminars led by industry experts and networking events that bring market niches together will also be available during the four-day trade event.

"Our industry continues to thrive despite current challenges in the marketplace, and last year's event proved that the value of conducting business and networking face-to-face can never be replaced," said Gattuso. "Our mission is to help continue that momentum by providing an unparalleled experience that builds meaningful business relationships.”

Registration for the 2022 SEMA Show is offered in three categories—attendee, exhibitor, and media—and everyone must qualify to attend. Attendees are encouraged to register early at www.semashow.com/register so they can secure their credentials and receive updates on breaking news from the 2022 SEMA Show. For more information about qualifying documents and the 2022 SEMA Show, log on to www.semashow.com.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience, and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org , 909/396-0289.

Automotive News - CarShowNationals.com (2024)

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