SEMA News mentions ICON about a Global Media Award winning product
Events – SEMA 2011
By Linda Spencer
2011 Global Media Awards
California-based PLX Devices—the top vote getter in the 2011 Global Media Awards program—poses with SEMA Senior Vice President of Operations Bill Miller (right). On winning eight awards from journalists on four continents, Paul Lowchareonkul, PLX president and CEO, commented: “First and foremost we are honored to have received this many Global Media Awards. It feels great to be recognized by some of the leading international publications involved in the automotive aftermarket industry.” He noted that they are poised to take advantage of this international attention with PLX product distribution already in place in many key international markets.
A total of 150 SEMA Show exhibitors received international recognition for 257 new products released at the 2011 SEMA Show. This eighth edition of the Global Media Awards program brought together 26 top journalists from 12 countries. Each of them were given the difficult task of selecting 10 products from the Ideas Alive: New Products Showcase that they felt would resonate and appeal most to consumers in their home countries. After 1,850 new products were reviewed and the judges’ votes were tallied, PLX Devices came out on top with eight Global Media Awards, having received the nod from judges based in Mexico, Brazil, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Sweden.
Other top winners included Auto Meter and Palmer Performance Engineering, each with seven awards, followed by Race Ramps and Smittybilt with six votes each. Included among the crop of SEMA Show exhibitors with international bragging rights were 21 first-time exhibitors. First-time Racing & Performance exhibitor OZMO Engineering garnered four votes—the highest among first-year exhibitors—for its carbon-fiber intake manifold, which the winning firm noted was fully designed using the SEMA Technology Transfer program, allowing all prototypes to be made without any physical measurements being taken.
SEMA News talked to some of the journalists about the products they selected and why they believe they would sell especially well in their home markets.
The Americas: Brazil
Eduardo Bernasconi, Fullpower
Auto Meter Products, 5th Gen Camaro Mounting Solution
Chevrolet-Brazil is officially importing the vehicle to Brazil. It started a few months ago. Also, a lot of independent companies are bringing the car in. It’s becoming more popular and easy to find here, so some owners will modify it and begin with the new Auto Meter mounting solution.
Auto Meter Products, Ultimate DL Playback Tach System
Brazilians are passionate about their cars, and they like to know what’s happening with the car. The DL Playback Tach system will help them find out all the information.
Carriage Works Inc., Driving-Simulator
PlayStation and Xbox are pretty popular here. Brazil is one of the largest markets for them, and we have just a few companies that produce driving simulators. They don’t have mass production, and sometimes it is hard to get them right away. There is some space to grow in this segment.
Mastershift, VW Sport Shifter
Volkswagen is the most modified brand in Brazil. This shifter will be a “must-have” part for any VW lover.
Mastershift, Push Button Shifter
Automatic transmissions weren’t that popular until the last decade. Right now, everybody wants to drive a nice car with an automatic transmission. With the push-button equipment, they will be more fun to drive!
Procar Seating by Scat, Classic Recliner
Right now, we’re facing some difficulties in finding nice seats. We have the Sparco ones—beautiful—but we don’t have a carbon-fiber one. The Procar seat with this finish can get attention and good sales numbers.
Race Ramps/Brute Industries, Tow Truck Flatbed Extension Ramp and Flatstoppers
We can easily find ramps for motorcycle purposes but not for car and car-show purposes. Race Ramps showed so many different models that consumers could use in their garages or at car shows.
Sprint Booster USA, Sprint Booster
Sprint Booster is something that consumers are looking for but just a few people know about. Some stores already have it, but we do not have a rep to make it popular. This equipment is easy to install and is the new consumer wish.
Spyder Auto, Projector Headlight
I’ve chosen the Chevrolet Cruze one with LED. The Chevrolet Cruze is brand new in Brazil; it launched just two months ago. This product has a nice price, and consumers will modify it—for sure. These headlights will get attention.
Miguel Ricardo Puerta, Carstereo/SuperSpeed/Hot Rods Magazines
Automotive trade show, automotive awards, automotive international, aftermarket business. Auto Meter products were among the favorites of international journalists, winning seven awards from journalists in Germany, France, Brazil, and Mexico. Pictured here is company representative Joseph Mills (left) and Bill Miller at the SEMA International Happy Hour.
Shutt Auto Accessories Inc., FTR-A FuelTech By Shutt Steering Wheel
Because it’s made of aluminum, it is extremely light and offers great grip action. It allows changing gears without removing the hands from the steering wheel. Performance fanatics will love it.
Motor House Marketing, Corvette ZR1 Chronograph Watch
It’s a collector’s item—beautifully made—that makes everyone remember this classic musclecar.
Classic Instruments Inc., V8 Speedster Series
Great style and finish if you want to impress hot-rod lovers.
Auto Meter Products, Ultimate DL Playback Tach System
Clear and great visual to see numbers quickly and clearly.
Palmer Performance Engineering, DashCommand
Great idea to allow software to be installed in a device to check all performance (electrical, etc.), making shop owners and employees happier.
Old Air Products Inc., IP-350
Nice way to keep cool. Simple, easily installed, and nice style. Air can be distributed throughout the car without installing tubes.
NRG Innovations, Wood Grain Steering Wheel With Hub
Was impressed with its style.
Retro Manufacturing LLC, Retrosound Model Two Radio
Great way to integrate new technology to a classic-style radio while keeping the old-style look.
Mito Corp., Gentex Mirror With Prodigy One Navigation
Almost unnoticeable. Great idea to put a GPS system together with a rearview mirror.
iForged Performance Alloys/Forgestar Wheels, CF10 Rotary Forged Carbon
Fantastic style and technology. Innovative idea.
Canada
Kevin Willey, Two Shoes Innovations
ARB 4×4 Accessories, ARB Maximum Airflow Portable Compressor
Once people come off the trail, airing back up is always an issue. ARB has solved that with an all-in-one solution for getting back to highway pressures quickly. This unit can also power air tools. Air up with ease and help your friends who are waiting on inefficient alternatives. ARB has hit one out of the park again.
Ark Corp., Arkpak
Arkpak had a winner with its battery box/charger combination, versatile for almost any requirement—camping, fishing, or hunting. The new model provides time-left displays for charge. I cannot wait to get the new version.
Bracketron Inc., Twist360
This bracket solves the problem of holding a tablet and using it simultaneously. It allows USB keyboard use, easy in-car mounting, and GPS navigation on a large screen.
Bracketron Inc., Universal Tablet Headrest Mount
Keeps kids entertained on long trips. Just attach any tablet, and they can watch movies, avoiding the “are we there yet?” syndrome.
Mac’s Custom Tie Downs, Mac’s Jeep Box
In-vehicle secure storage can be done with aluminum, saving weight and gas. Tie-downs on top are a real bonus. Very well thought out and executed.
Motor City Products/US Speedo, Spotlight “Search”
No more hunting for a flashlight in the car. Handy and right where you left it.
Omix-Ada/Rugged Ridge, Overhead Storage Console for Jeep
Easy to install and functional. The net covers the opening, the liner stops rattles, and contents stay within reach.
Sprintex Superchargers, JK Jeep Supercharger
Easy to install, complete with instructions. Provides extra power and torque, both on- and off-road. Cool factor is high.
Stone River Gear LLC, Lasered Damascus Ceramic Folding Knife SRG1TDL
One of the best folding knives I have seen. Lasered-Damascus case and ceramic blade. Functional and artistic. Simply superb.
Superwinch LLC, Tiger Shark 17500 Winch
Reliable off-road recovery winch. Works every time without fail. Pulling power will no longer be a consideration.
Mexico
Angel Alcala, Supercar
Automotive trade show, automotive awards, automotive international, aftermarket business. Palmer Performance Engineering’s new DashCommand won seven awards at this year’s SEMA Show. Company representatives posed with SEMA Vice President of Communications and Events Peter MacGillivray (far right).
AFCO Racing/Dynatech, ’11 6.4L Dodge Challenger Long-Tube Header System
Beautifully designed header essential for the SRT line of Challengers. Increases performance drastically. Popular in Mexico.
Auto Meter Products, Nostalgia Series Tri-5 Mounting Solution
Provides precision and control for engine readings, perfectly built with a nice finish. Ideal for custom dashboards.
Baer Brake Systems, Full-Floating Rearend Conversion
Combines engineering and design, providing efficiency, intelligence, and aesthetic appeal.
Billy Boat Performance, Performance Exhaust
Attractive design and fine finish. Improves performance and fuel efficiency with clean sound.
Dakota Digital Inc., VHX Hybrid Instrument System, ’66–’77 Ford Bronco
Correct readings, good illumination, and attractive exterior design. Highly finished product.
McGaughys Suspension, ’09–’12 F-150 6.5-in. Lift Kit
Beautiful and robust design, providing solidity and better performance to large 4×4 vehicles. Easy to install.
MSD Ignition, Atomic EFI
Perfect injection system for 4×4 off-road. Stylish, great finish, increases power and fuel efficiency.
Nelson Racing Engines Inc., Patented Mirror Image Turbos
Twin turbos increase engine power and torque, intelligently designed.
PLX Devices Inc., XWave Sonic
Portable instrument via smartphone. Simple, instant readings. Intelligent and accessible.
SLP Performance Parts Inc., High-Output Superchargers for Camaro/Corvette/GM Truck/Challenger and Mustang
Enables musclecars to become supercars with incredible power and torque. Convenient and commercially popular in Mexico.
Daniel Garcia Solis, V8 Musclecars
Auto Meter Products, Universal 3 Gauge Mounting Solution
Auto Meter has earned a place in Mexico’s market for hot rods and street rods. Easy installation, great aesthetics, and clear indicators.
CFR Performance, Chevy Small-Block Complete Pulley, Bracket & Pump Set (LWP)
Chrome finish reflects the motor’s power. Highly attractive to restorers seeking aesthetics and performance.
Intro-Tech Automotive Inc., Pitstop Furniture
Innovative product for businesses wanting original chairs or desks. Comfortable and visually appealing.
Optima Batteries, Optima Chargers Digital 1200 Battery Charger
Prevents battery issues in the car, especially when camping. Optima is a well-recognized brand.
Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc./Proform, Chevy Orange Small-Block Engine Dress-up Kit
Offers a great view and finish for the engine. Enhances the restored appearance with spectacular aesthetics.
Specialty Wheel LLC, Artillery Wheel
Lightweight, new auto parts for restorers seeking modern replacements for old, oxidized pieces. Ideal for small vintage trucks.
SuperSpare Tire Repair, SuperSpare Tire Repair
Ingenious, reusable, comfortable, safe, and versatile. Reduces risk during repair and environmentally friendly.
TMI Products Inc., ’64–’93 Mustang Pony Sport Seat Upholstery & Foam
Comfortable seats for Mustang clubs. Easy installation, looks brand new.
United Pacific Industries Inc., ’70–’73 Camaro LED Taillight
Modern touch for classic rearview mirror. Combines antique and modern aesthetics. Attractive to Mexican restorers.
Workshop Hero, a Division of Armor Protective Packaging, Metal Rescue Rust Remover Bath
Innovative liquid removes corrosion and rust from deteriorated car parts. No need to buy new parts. Highly recommended.
Venezuela
Henry Pierini, AutoZulia
Automotive trade show, automotive awards, automotive international, aftermarket business
Five different products launched by Smittybilt at this year’s SEMA Show won Global Media Awards. Company representatives received their awards and posed for a picture with Bill Miller (right) at the SEMA International Happy Hour.
2Go Keyless
2Go Keyless Push Button Start System: I like this because it is a product that can be adapted to any economy vehicle, but it is a technology that usually can be seen in high-performance or luxury vehicles. It is very practical in that you only need to use one button to start the vehicle.
Cap-Pack Truck Products LLC
Storage System: I like this product a lot because it is a compartment for additional cargo that is placed in the back of a small truck, but it doesn’t affect the cargo capacity since it is added to the ceiling and occupies little space. It is ideal for those who like to store work tools. Excellent!
Car-O-Liner Co.
EVO: This is the ideal tool to modernize mechanical workshops and bodywork repair shops. It is practical, small and has few elements, yet it is very useful when anchored to any point on a car and works with more comfort.
Custom Wheel Solutions
Nutek Concave Wheels: The design of this wheel is excellent for giving a more aggressive aspect to any car. It is a good option for the personalization of vehicles.
Extang/TruXedo/BedRug/Undercover
UnderCover Flex: I liked this product because it offers a cover on the rear part of the pickup in case one wanted to carry a load and protect it from climate conditions, but it can easily be folded in a few ways to occupy little space when you want to use the entire cargo space of the small truck.
Mito Corp.
Gentex Mirror With Prodigy One Navigation: This is a very complete product that places the navigation in a very convenient position in the rearview mirror and at the same time serves as a compass and radar and is connected with emergency communication services. It is a great technological advance.
Optima Batteries
Optima Chargers Digital 1200 Battery Charger: I like it because it is a fast battery charger of practical size that helps extend the life of batteries and can still serve as a charger for other apparatuses, such as telephones and computers.
Palmer Performance Engineering
DashCommand: It seems marvelous that a diagnostics team can read information from smartphones and computerized tablets. This means that they will save money, doing a scan of the vehicle in a portable way.
Tornador Tools
Z-020 Tornador Black: I like this product because it is an easy way to maintain a clean interior in a car with little effort. Nowadays, the car is very valuable property and we can extend its useful life with products such as this.
Workshop Hero, a Division of Armor Protective Packaging
Metal Rescue Rust Remover Bath: It is good to include a product that cleans the oxide from certain parts of the car where it has accumulated over time. It takes maintenance into account, and that is a very important part of extending the useful life of cars.
Europe: France
Igor Subocz, ProRider Magazine
Ace Fuel Systems
Adjustable Fuel Injector: All-in-one system. Easy, fast and efficient if you need to modify your fuel pressure during testing, for example. Color bands are made to simplify your life. Simple idea with great results.
Auto Meter Products
Universal 3 Gauge Mounting Solution: At last, a universal system adaptable to every car, European and American, with a simple and nice design. Easy to use!
B&M Racing & Performance Products Inc.
’10+ Mustang Auto Plate and Stick Kit: Old drag-style gear shift for modern sports cars. Great look and really nice design.
Daystar Products International
Can Cam Fuel and Water System: An original way to carry your fuel. Cool design adaptable on many 4x4s and SUVs around the world. Original and fun idea for a product that is usually boring.
Flex-a-lite Consolidated
Flex-a-chill Radiator Coolant Additive (POP): Smart idea for all of us who face cooling problems. Could be a technical solution for many problems. Smart and efficient product.
Kindig-It Design
Patented Smooth Door Handles: Same opinion as the gear shift. Old-style design for modern-car solution. Change your design without mixing car brands. Could be adapted on every model. Nice and good-looking product.
MAcarbon
Mercedes Custom Steering Wheel and Shift Paddle Extensions: Could be an aftermarket solution for Mercedes owners who don’t want to spend all of their accessories money in one deal. Technical, efficient and nice-looking item.
MGP Caliper Covers
MGP Caliper Covers: Creativity and design for a simple but original idea. For those who hate painted calipers (I do) and want an aesthetic solution with a simple method.
RimPro-Tec Wheel Bands
Wheel Bands: At last a simple and quick solution to changing your wheel lip. No paint, no stickers, no wasting time. A good bargain for a fast solution. Easy to install for great-looking lips.
SCT Performance
iTSX for iPhone: The first mobile smartphone solution to modify your engine program. Smart ideas for GM and Ford companies.
Gerry Blynberg, ProRider Magazine
Automotive trade show, automotive awards, automotive international, aftermarket business
Tom Myroniak (left), SEMA vice president of member services, congratulates Michigan-based Race Ramps and poses with (from left to right) Bill Jonson, Tracy Depuydt and Jim Moberg, as the company accepts a total of six awards for three new products: the Tow Truck Flatbed Extension Ramp, 7-in. Trailer Ramp with a Flap Cut-Out and the Flatstoppers.
Rocket Racing Wheels
Rocket Strike: The best compromise in terms of design, quality and price.
OZMO Engineering
Carbon Fiber Intake Manifold: Perfect design for a performance look.
Holley Performance Products
NASCAR Cup Spec EFI Throttle Body: Quality and performance: This is Holley.
Fidanza Engineering Corp.
Short-Throw Shifter for ’10+ Camaro SS: Good sales for Camaros in France and Europe. I think it’s a good product.
Donz Wheelz/Rennen International
R8 Xtreme Concave Step Lip: Great design. Looks really nice for the European market.
Coker Tire
Firestone Indy Tires: Really nice ‘vintage’ look for this tire.
Billet Specialties Inc.
Streamline Valve Covers: Billet Specialties always has really good products for hot rods and customs. Really smooth and cool ‘retro’ design for these valve covers.
Baer Brake Systems
Full-Floating Rearend Conversion: Really good performance brakes with a nice design.
Germany
Gregor Hebermehl, Autonews
OZMO Engineering: Carbon Fiber Intake Manifold
This carbon-fiber intake manifold is not just an eye-catcher. With its high-tech material, it’s perfectly in line with the current trend of light-alloy components in the automobile industry. The carbon-fiber intake manifold takes some weight off the suspension while lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity. We also liked the high quality of the exhibited item.
Superwinch LLC: Tiger Shark 17500 Winch
The Tiger Shark winch gave a high-quality impression that appealed to us. In addition, its 17,500-lb. pulling force—roughly eight metric tons—is sufficient for most applications. We also liked the rollers mounted above, below, and to the right and left of the cable exit point, ensuring low-friction reel-in and pay-out of the cable.
EWP Global Inc.: Global Double Bank Grill
Men like BBQ grills—the bigger, the better. And men like tool chests—the bigger, the better. The Double Bank Grill combines both. What a concept!
MAcarbon: Mercedes Custom Steering Wheel and Shift Paddle Extensions
We like the Mercedes custom steering wheel better than many of the steering wheels made by Mercedes. The steering wheel rim is nice and thick, which makes for a good grip. The carbon-fiber insert in the upper segment looks great, and the metal center position marking adds a stylish touch. A steering wheel for Mercedes vehicles is likely to be especially popular in the German market.
Palmer Performance Engineering: DashCommand
Being able to easily and clearly display relevant vehicle information on a tablet PC is fascinating. It puts some data into the driver’s hands that would normally be available only to a service technician. Technically minded car owners will want to know as much as possible about their vehicle and its potential. Especially in Germany, DashCommand could make many new friends.
Mac’s Custom Tie Downs: Chassis Stabilizer
The Chassis Stabilizer struck us as a truly smart idea. Strikingly simple by design and just as easy to install, it reliably stabilizes cars hauled on a trailer—and we all know how hard air can be under high compression.
Mastershift: Corvette Manual Transmission Paddle Shifter (C5/C6/Z06/ZR1)
Toggle switches installed on the steering wheel that move along with the steering motion are just mega fun. A great idea for Corvette owners—even in Germany there are quite a lot of them. We also liked the ergonomic switch design. Emphasis on processing quality in series production is essential for the German market.
Monster Hooks Inc.: Monster Hook
Technical equipment that works well usually looks good, too. This is true for the Monster Hook, with its pleasing design and effective functionality.
Bully Dog Technologies: 3-Stage Auto Nitrous Injection System
The three-stage injection system for diesel drag race cars does exactly what technology is supposed to do: deliver performance while making the driver’s life easier. We especially liked that the system is user-configurable and works automatically once the race has started. The combination of enormous diesel torque and nitrous injection guarantees unequalled power in the race for the finish line.
Intro-Tech Automotive Inc.: Pitstop Furniture
A sleek desk chair for race enthusiasts—this might just be the next hot-selling item. Younger race fans will be especially intrigued by this individualist chair. Ensuring excellent quality in series production is essential—otherwise Germany will be a tough market to conquer.
Mathias Albert, VW Speed and Tuning
ARP Inc.: Subaru EJ 2.0/2.5L Custom Age 625+ Head Stud Kit
Easy handling!
Auto Meter Products: Universal Ecometer
Great because you can use it for a lot of cars!
CORSA Performance: BMW Performance Exhaust
BMW in Germany is very popular, and the BMW driver loves outstanding design.
Directed Electronics Inc.: Viper SmartStart GPS
Good idea, especially for Eastern Europe.
Fist Enterprises LLC: BIOSmartStart
Good product for aftermarket sales. More comfortable than a key.
inCarBite: iPad Detachable Case and Head Rest Car Mount
Good to use also in Europe.
KW Automotive North America: KW Suspensions BMW M3 E46 (’00–’06) 3 Way Clubsport
Perfect technology for M3.
MITO Corp.: Gentex Mirror with Prodigy One Navigation
No more problems with a monitor. Looks clean and easy to handle.
RimPro-Tec Wheel Bands: Wheel Bands
Easy way to give a new design to existing wheels.
Norway
Espen Skogen, Bil-Revyen
U.S. Department of Commerce representative Peter Perez (left) presented SEMA Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers with an honorary certificate of appreciation. One of the five recipients of the Market Development Cooperator Program (MDCP) for 2011, SEMA will receive $500,000 in matching funds over the next three years to support U.S. manufacturers that export automotive specialty-equipment products to booming emerging international markets.
Big Time Auto Parts/Austin International Manufacturing Inc.: BT-431
This is a cool concept that provides custom car builders with a lot of flexibility, as the technology allows for all legally required lights to be in the same housing.
CT Johnson Enterprises Inc./Deadbolt Products: Blockhead Trailer Coupler Lock
An elegant and clever product that should sell well worldwide. Protects your trailer while being easy to use and store.
Directus: Prodigy One Pro—TCT System
This provides endless opportunities for innovative app developers. App-based in-car solutions are definitely growing—and this solution previews what is coming.
Escort/Beltronics Radar Detectors: Escort Live!
SMS-based solutions for radar warning have been very popular in Norway. This is the future version of the text-message-based solution!
GoPoint Technology: BT1 With Android
Any car enthusiast will need to decode error codes from time to time. With this product, bulky OBD cables are no longer needed.
Kindig-It Design: Patented Smooth Door Handles
Any custom car enthusiast would love this product. The custom look and ease of use are excellent.
Paladin Innovations: Rescue Bit
Products designed by creators who needed them themselves are always good. Rescue Bit is likely to sell well in any market.
Phoenix Systems LLC: Hose Candy Hose Skins
People want a custom look to their hoses but often end up with blue Samco hoses. That’s why we need Hose Candy.
RimPro-Tec Wheel Bands: Wheel Bands
As with Hose Candy, these protect the wheels and add to the looks.
Rohana Wheels: RC5
Great wheel design that would suit an endless number of cars. The 20-in. is the go-to dimension in Europe, and these rims look fantastic.
Sweden
Johan Eriksson, Bilsport 19/Bilsport Classic Magazines
Eagle Specialty Products Inc.: 429-cid Chevy LS3 Stroker Kit
Building big horsepower on American motors—GM small-blocks in particular—has always been popular in Sweden. If this kit proves a more economical alternative to a complete 427ci motor, it could be a hit.
Eibach Springs Inc.: Multi-Pro-R2 Coil-Over
’92–’00 Honda Civics are popular as track-day cars. Owners tend to be older and willing to spend more money to increase handling performance with high-quality products.
Flaming River Industries Inc.: ’63–’68 Corvette Power Rack-and-Pinion Cradle Kit
Restoring classics to a state close to original but with technical upgrades has become increasingly popular. Products that allow improvement without cutting, welding, or hammering on the original car and are easy to install are interesting.
Hotchkis Sport Suspension: ’11 Camaro Convertible Race Pack TVS Kit
The latest-generation Camaro will be exported to Europe and Sweden. While the coupe might sell in higher numbers, convertible owners will find this type of reinforcement appealing.
Lokar Performance Products: Drive-by-Wire Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Demand for solutions that allow modern electronics in a “home-built” vehicle seems to be up.
Mahle Motorsports: BMW M3 S52 3.2L E36 Engine PowerPak
Aftermarket force feeding of BMWs is one of the most common performance modifications in Sweden, next to building Volvos and American muscle.
Phoenix Systems LLC: Hose Candy Barb Bites
A nice under-hood touchup somewhere between original look and the bright, shiny route.
PLX Devices Inc.: Multi Gauge Color DM100
Displays and gauges that integrate well in the dash appeal to those who prefer an uncluttered cabin environment.
Sprintex Superchargers: MINI Cooper R52 and R53 Supercharger
A proper screw compressor is a major improvement over the standard Eaton. MINIs enjoy some popularity in Sweden, and there should be a market for at least a few kits.
TMI Products Inc.: Sport Seats ’67 Chevelle
This product aligns with the increasingly popular form of resto-modding in Sweden: improving performance, handling, and comfort in a classic while keeping a standard-esque look.
New Zealand
Todd Wylie, NZV8 Magazine
Automotive trade show, automotive awards, automotive international, aftermarket business
OZMO Engineering
First-time exhibitor OZMO Engineering won four global media awards at this year’s SEMA Show for their new carbon-fiber intake manifold. “We did not really know what to expect from our first SEMA Show,” exclaimed first-time exhibitor Renate Kroghadl of OZMO. “We were blown away at the recognition the OZMO Engineering Carbon Fiber Manifolds got. It was absolutely fantastic to be chosen for an award, but when we saw it was actually four, wow, that was quite impressive. To be singled out by four media judges from different countries that thought our product was deserving of a prize, that was quite humbling. It was a great recognition for all the time and effort that was put into developing the manifolds and preparing for the Show.”
American Autowire
’70–’74 Cuda/Challenger Classic Update Wiring Kit: “There’s a large following for the Challenger and Cuda in New Zealand, and almost all of them are modified in a style that would make a loom such as this a great asset to the owner/builders.”
Drake Automotive Group
’65–’68 Ford Mustang Tri-Y Stainless Steel Headers–Part #C5ZZ-9430-SS: “We find that most Mustang owners prefer bolt-on products to custom-made items. These headers offer the quality and performance of custom items but with the ease of being simply installed.”
Eddie Motorsports
Billet Aluminum Under-Hood kit for ’55–’57 Chevys: “Here in New Zealand, ’55–’57 Chevys are extremely popular, and this kit is a cost-effective way to dress your engine bay to make yours stand out from the crowd.”
Link Engine Management USA
KnockLink G4: “The KnockLink allows home tuners and professionals alike piece of mind to know that their tune-up is safe. Its simple installation and self-calibration make it easier to use than any competitor product.”
MSD Ignition
Atomic EFI: “The MSD name is trusted and highly regarded in New Zealand. Combine this with the ease of installation the unit offers and the ability to provide data acquisition, and you’re on to a winner.”
Plio Grip by Valvoline
Like90 Turbo Pad for Bumpers: “No mess and no pouring solvents. The Turbo Pad makes life simple and saves time for the home DIY enthusiast or trade professional alike.”
PLX Devices Inc.
Kiwi OBD2 to Smartphone Interface: “The popularity of installing OBD2-based engines into older vehicles is rapidly growing, as is the number of vehicle owners who are willing to tune and diagnose their own vehicles. A product like this will be in high demand.”
Procomp Electronics
289/302W Ford Downdraft Weber EFI Kit: “The look of Weber carbs, the reliability of EFI and the simplicity of a ready-to-install package make this the perfect upgrade for Ford owners.”
Ron Francis Wiring
Express Series Switch Panels: “Most race-car owners like to build their own cars. However, wiring is often the one part they outsource. A panel like this allows even novice auto electricians to get involved and do it themselves.”
Top Street Performance
LS Motor Fabricated Aluminum Coil Covers: “LS engine conversions are becoming more and more popular. However, many owners don’t like the look of the exposed coil packs. These covers not only hide them but also give the engine an often-desired older look.”
Alastair Ritchie, Street Machine
Automotive trade show, automotive awards, automotive international, aftermarket business
SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (center) posed with Perry, Ohio-based Fidanza Engineering during the Global Media Awards ceremony. Representatives joining Kersting on the red carpet (from left) include Alice Wilson, Adam Olenchick, Jeff Jenkins and Ed “Blake” Burgy.
BorgWarner Turbo Systems
Engineered For Racing 7163: “Few people know that BorgWarner is the second-largest manufacturer of turbochargers in the world, most of which were supplied as an OEM product to manufacturers. So with that level of experience applied to the company’s first aftermarket range with the EFR series last year, it proved to be an award-winning product. This year, BorgWarner has continued to refine an outstanding product with the EFR-7163 model, which is not only lighter but has also been made even more responsive. This makes it an industry-leading product.”
Braille LLC
Lithium Battery: “Braille Batteries is a small company that I’ve been watching for some time. They have excelled in product quality, design and innovation with Lithium Ion technology and continue with this latest offering in the Intensity i34CX Lithium Battery. In New Zealand and Australia, there are no regulations in motor racing as to the type of battery to be used, and this product combines a very light weight with industry-leading battery performance—a combination that becomes extremely cost effective in the world of race-car construction.”
CFR Performance
Chevy Small-Block Complete Pulley, Bracket & Pump Set (LWP): “Finally someone has combined a complete pulley, bracket and water pump set ready to simply bolt on to the über-popular small-block Chevrolet. With two finishes available at a very competitive price point, this takes the hassle out of matching the various products and brackets to suit the application.”
EZ Connector Inc.
EZS7-02: “Every year, someone comes up with an innovative way to redesign an everyday product that traditionally causes people grief. This standout product design from EZ Connector has produced a trailer-plug system that addresses the age-old issues, not only sealing both plug ends while not in use, but producing an O-ringed sealed and magnetically attached connection system. New Zealand and Australia have massive towing fleets—from boats and campers to horse floats—so perhaps this could become the new industry standard.”
Haltech Engine Management Systems
ETC2 DBW Throttle Controller: “Haltech has a strong lineup of innovative engine-management products. This year, they are releasing a unique aftermarket standalone fly-by-wire throttle controller complete with two channels for twin throttle applications. This will allow for smoother tuning control via the Haltech engine management. I can see this application becoming especially useful during cold start-up mapping.”
ICON Vehicle Dynamics LLC
’07+ Toyota FJ Cruiser/’05+ Tacoma Uniball Upper Control Arm: “The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a relatively new product in Australia and New Zealand, but the Tacoma (Hilux) is a very common off-road vehicle, many of which are used in competition applications. In these rigorous environments, the upper control arm has been a point of weakness in these vehicles, so an aftermarket product addressing this issue would be well received.”
Link Engine Management USA
KnockLink G4: “Link Engine Management is a New Zealand company and is renowned for developing solid engine-management applications and tuning tools at a very reasonable price point. The KnockLink G4 should be another very popular road/racing product. As a standalone, easily installed tuning tool, it will self-calibrate and provide an instant strong visual warning to the driver that damaging detonation is occurring within the engine. Even with modern tuning and electronic engine-management systems and safe tunes locked in on a dyno, detonation can occur from something as simple as some bad fuel. This product detects the issue before any damage can occur.”
MSD Ignition
Atomic EFI: “MSD is a longstanding popular electronic ignition brand in New Zealand and Australia. This new product has some excellent applications in not only the V8 tuning scene, but also the off-road scene. This package combines smooth electronic fuel injection and a quality throttle body in a bolt-on kit, complete with a handheld tuning module. Being standalone, it doesn’t require additional PC programming. This system would be perfect for off-road applications where vehicles negotiating steep vertical inclines suffer from fuel starvation.”
Ohlins USA Inc.
R/T Porsche 997 GT3 RS: “Ohlins is renowned for producing some of the most technically advanced road and track shock absorber systems in the world. This year, they have produced an OEM bolt-on upgrade package to suit the popular road-going Porsche 997 GT3 RS and GT3 Cup race car used in New Zealand and Australia. The GT3 cup model is the weapon of choice in both Porsche GT3 Cup racing series. With the regulations in these series allowing aftermarket suspension, this new two-way adjustable product will provide an edge when combined with a knowledgeable tuning engineer.”
OZMO Engineering
Carbon Fiber Intake Manifold: “One of the tastiest new products on the shelves this year was the OZMO Engineering carbon-fiber intake manifold, suited to the popular GM LS3/L98 engine. Beautifully crafted with long runners and port-matched CNC flanges and twin plenums and throttle bodies, this certainly stood out as a desirable product. Sure, it’s not a cheap product, but quality never is. The fuelrail is cleverly integrated in such a way as not to be breached in the event of an NOS backfire.”
Pro Comp/G2/Smittybilt/Rubicon Express
Smittybilt All Element Ramps: “With off-road activities being so popular in New Zealand and Australia, the combination of variety in terrain and extremely changeable conditions can end in a situation where tires are no longer ideal and becoming stuck can be a relatively common problem for the inexperienced driver. These compact Smittybilt All Element ramps are a great idea to carry, especially if you are in a stock vehicle with no winch or in an area where there is little to winch off.”
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