The editors of Hot Rod are in the process now of building this ’68 Chevy Van for the 2012 SEMA Show in affiliation with eBay Motors. Working with Mackey’s Hot Rods of Huntington Beach, CA, they not only sourced the love machine, but every single last part needed exclusively on eBay Motors.

 The editors of Hot Rod are in the process now of building this ’68 Chevy Van for the 2012 SEMA Show in affiliation with eBay Motors. Working with Mackey’s Hot Rods of Huntington Beach, CA, they not only sourced the love machine, but every single last part needed exclusively on eBay Motors.

While they would love for you to vote for them, the key to this campaign is that you can be the winner. Vote for your favorite, even if it isn’t the Gasser Van and at the same time enter to win a $5,000 dream garage.

So whether you’re into rally, racing, off-road, or showcars, this competition has everything to offer so join in the fun and pick your favorite. See the entire video series now at www.builtfromebay.com.

The editors of Hot Rod, Lowrider, european car, and Four Wheeler are in the process now of building SEMA projects sourcing not only the car, but every single last part needed exclusively on eBay Motors. Best of all, you can vote for your favorite and at the same time enter to win a $5,000 Dream Garage.

The editors of Hot Rod, Lowrider, european car, and Four Wheeler are in the process now of building SEMA projects sourcing not only the car, but every single last part needed exclusively on eBay Motors. Best of all, you can vote for your favorite and at the same time enter to win a $5,000 Dream Garage.

The effort is BUILT from eBay® – A web series that takes four automotive magazines and their selected garages and creates a competition to showcase eBay Motors amazing selection. Each team starts with the purchase of a niche-enthusiast vehicle, and then searches out and purchases each and every part to go with them. Whether those parts be new, retro, performance or new-old-stock, these four teams are being tested to pull it off.

So whether you’re into rally, racing, off-road, or showcars, this competition has everything to offer so join in the fun and pick your favorite. See the entire video series now at www.builtfromebay.com.

Callaway Cars Incorporated announces the introduction of the 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Callaway Corvette (GM Regular Production Option B2K)

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Callaway Corvette, Callaway Cars collaborated with Chevrolet product management to arrange a production run of 25 uniquely prepared 2012 Corvette Grand Sports coupes and convertibles. Chevrolet has reinstated RPO B2K, designating that these cars are factory-equipped with certain GM components that facilitate Callaway's product installation. The 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Callaway Corvette will be unveiled at Callaway's "Dealer Summit" national sales meeting at the National Corvette Museum, Bowling Green KY, on April 23.

The 25 RPO B2K cars are scheduled to be built at Chevrolet's Bowling Green Assembly Plant in April 2012. They will be shipped to Callaway Cars' facilities for final assembly to "25th Anniversary" model specifications, including Callaway supercharger system, exhaust system, suspension components, carbon fiber body aerodynamics, Callaway wheels and tires, specific badging and more. The completed cars will be delivered to Authorized Callaway/Chevrolet Dealers where new owners will take delivery. Buyers may also choose to take delivery at the National Corvette Museum or at the constructing Callaway facility.

Callaway Cars Incorporated is an automotive engineering and manufacturing corporation specializing in high performance applications. Callaway has facilities in Connecticut, California and Germany. Callaway Cars built the original RPO B2K turbocharged Callaway Corvettes under contract with Chevrolet from 1987 to 1991. These twin turbocharged, limited-production cars represented Corvette's flagship at the time and are coveted by performance car collectors worldwide. To date, B2K is the only Corvette RPO ever granted by General Motors to a non-GM company. During the 1990's and 2000's, Callaway Cars produced significant Corvette-based road cars and race cars. With Chevrolet's introduction of the sixth-generation Corvette in 2005, Callaway commenced development and production of their current series of supercharged Callaway Corvettes. The 2012 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Callaway Corvette RPO B2K is the latest example of Chevrolet and Callaway joint efforts.

The analysis would consider a variety of issues including tailpipe and evaporative emissions, impact on OBD systems, materials compatibility and fuel efficiency.

 The U.S. House Science Committee approved a bill (H.R. 3199) directing the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a scientific assessment on how gasoline blended with 15 to 20 percent ethanol (E15 and E20) may impact gasoline-powered engines, vehicles and related equipment.  The analysis would consider a variety of issues including tailpipe and evaporative emissions, impact on OBD systems, materials compatibility and fuel efficiency.  The National Academy of Sciences would have 18 months to conduct its analysis. HR 3199 will now be considered by the full House of Representatives.

We Urge You to Contact Your Congressional Representative to Request Their Support for H.R. 3199

• H.R. 3199 acknowledges that E15 causes corrosion with incompatible parts.  Ethanol increases water formation which can then create formic acid and corrode metals, plastics and rubber.  The EPA allows use of E15 in 2001 and newer vehicles, but agreed to make it "illegal to fuel pre-2001 vehicles" with E15.  A required warning label on the gasoline pump will not protect consumers from accidentally misfueling these vehicles/engines.
• H.R. 3199 recognizes that E15 is not yet in the marketplace.  It is still the subject of several lawsuits and Congress could enact legislation to block the sale.
• H.R. 3199 prevents the EPA from permitting the sale of E15 before the report has been submitted to the House Science Committee.
• H.R. 3199 potentially protects millions of vehicles and engines that can be harmed from E15.  The EPA was premature in permitting the sale since it is still unclear how E15 impacts tailpipe and evaporative emissions, OBD systems, materials compatibility and fuel efficiency.

DON'T DELAY!  Click here to contact your member of the U.S. House of Representatives to request their support of H.R. 3199.  Under Federal Officials, Identify Your Congressional District Representative:  http://semasan.com/lookup.asp?g=semaga

The new Corvette Central Performance online catalog offers performance products for all Corvettes, from C1 to C6

Corvette Central is proud to introduce a new online catalog developed exclusively for Corvette performance enthusiasts: Corvette Central Performance.

Corvette Central was established in 1975 to provide Corvette owners with uncompromised quality parts and accessories for every Corvette. While we will never stray from that mission, we are always striving to better meet the demands of every type of Corvette owner, including those who want to attain improved performance from their already potent cars. Our team of performance specialists has developed a catalog of the most innovative performance products available for all Corvettes, from C1 to C6.

Customers searching our online catalog will recognize some formidable performance part manufacturers, including Pfadt Racing, Kooks Custom Headers, Air Flow Research, Callaway and many more. From simple upgrades to thoroughly researched and developed performance packages; from exhaust and electronics to superchargers and suspension, Corvette Central Performance will be able to meet the demands of this ever-evolving group of enthusiasts.

In addition to one of the most comprehensive performance parts catalog inventories in existence, we have developed Corvette Central Performance to be a technical reference center for Corvette owners. We have partnered with journalist/Corvette guru Chris Petris and SCCA champion Corvette racing driver Danny Kellermeyer to bring you exclusive and frequent technical how-to articles and advice for maximizing the performance on your car. We will continue to add new features to Corvette Central Performance as it evolves. We invite you to visit and bookmark www.CorvettePerformance.com today.

The new flash sale website offers a new exclusive deal every day where you can buy brand-name performance products at 40%-75% off published retail prices.

SpeedDealz.com is a members-only (registration is free) flash sale website that publishes a single blow-out deal each day. The continuously revolving inventory of top quality merchandise with warranty (unless specified) consists of closeout and discontinued products from some of the performance automotive aftermarket’s biggest names, and is offered at 40 to 75 percent off published retail prices. In addition, Speeddealz.com will also periodically offer gift certificates from participating brands that can be purchased for a fraction of their redemption value while allowing customers to select exactly the products they need.  However, once the deal is sold out, it will be gone forever.

Becoming a member simply requires providing basic contact information and answering a few market research questions. Customers can view the daily sale through any internet browser at www.SpeedDealz.com, by setting preferences to allow a daily message to be sent to their email address, or in the near future, by downloading an app for their smartphone. Customers can also keep up with the daily dealz at www.facebook.com/speeddealz. From hot rods and muscle cars to dragsters and hardcore race applications, SpeedDealz.com has dealz that no car enthusiast can afford to miss.

As the automotive aftermarket's premier flash sale website, SpeedDealz.com is the only place gearheads can go to find high performance parts at blow-out prices that can't be ignored. With a safe and secure checkout process, never worry about overpaying on performance automotive parts again; visit www.SpeedDealz.com soon to get in on the savings!

The Association of California Car Club needs the help of collector car enthusiasts from all over the country to protect the collector vehicle hobby.

The Association of California Car Clubs (ACCC) was formed March 16, 1972 and  consists of thousands of automobile hobbyists throughout the state who are interested in California laws. regulations and policies regarding collector vehicles. The ACCC is a volunteer organization with regional representatives who represent the interests of individual members and member clubs across the state. Hobby clubs and individuals joining the ACCC contribute to the protection of the hobby and are kept informed of the issues. These representatives form the Board of Directors, serve without pay, and are elected from the pool of active auto enthusiasts in the state. The ACCC is successful through the teamwork of business, individual and club members.

WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF THE ACCC?

The ACCC forms a bridge between the automotive enthusiast and elected officials (who have stated that about 85 percent of their votes are cast on unfamiliar subjects).  The ACCC is united to serve by informing and educating the members, and by using appropriate channels of communication at all levels of government, as necessary, to protect and preserve the collectible vehicle hobby.

Article 8.3, Section 5050. of the California Vehicle Code, authored by the ACCC, states: "The legislature finds and declares that constructive leisure pursuits by California citizens is most important. This article is intended to encourage responsible participation in the hobby of collecting, preserving, restoring, and maintaining motor vehicles of historical and special interest, which hobby contributes to the enjoyment of the citizens and the preservation of California automotive memorabilia."

The following is what the ACCC is proposing for the 2011 Legislative session for California:

In 2011 the ACCC will be addressing the issues related to active and pending legislation regarding collector vehicles and car hobbyist in a new way. In October, the ACCC was approached with an organization plan that was conceptualized by ACCC member Butch Gardner and a few other collector vehicle enthusiasts. This organization plan is designed to accept input, and reach consensus from a broad State-wide membership, on defending the hobby from new restrictive State legislation and to draft new legislation intended to protect the interests of the collector vehicle enthusiasts. The plan calls for the formation of an ad-hoc committee comprised of members and non-members of the ACCC. Literally anyone can become a member! This group, called the Legislative Action Group (LAG), will function independent of the ACCC but is designed to work with the ACCC by making recommendations to the ACCC on positions to be taken. A Legislative Action Steering Sub-committee (LASC) was also recommended that would perform the legwork required to reach decisions that will be passed on to the ACCC Board of Directors. On November 6th the second meeting of the LAG was held in Sacramento Vintage Ford's conference room. It became apparent that the interest in this effort far exceeded the capacity of the conference room with attendees standing in the adjacent hallway! At that meeting, the LASC members were nominated and voted on with Dennis Valentine appointed to the Chair position. Nonvoting committee members ACCC Director Rex Roden was appointed as the ACCC liaison and Mark Gaither of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association legal staff, as the facilitator of future Steering Committee meetings. Butch Gardner was nominated and appointed as the chairperson of the LAG. The contact list for the LAG is at 125 members and is growing daily! At that same meeting a proposed bill authored by Eddie Barbosa and Jim Hosking, who were in attendance, presented those there with the proposed language that Assemblyman Kevin Jeffries is considering for submission for the upcoming legislative session. The LASC took on the assignment of assessing the proposed bill's intent and to provide feedback to Assemblyman Jeffries.

The following week the LASC chair solicited and collected input from all known LAG participants and on November 27th the LASC held its first meeting to solidify the consensus-based recommendations to Assemblyman Jeffries. The recommendation letter was drafted and then transmitted to the ACCC for approval. At the same time Jim Hosking of Southern California scheduled a meeting with Assemblyman Jeffries Chief of Staff to present him with the LASC recommendations. Things started to move fast after that. When Assemblyman Jeffries was informed of the meeting request he wanted to attend and the only date available was December 3rd. The meeting took place with Assemblyman Jeffries, the assemblyman's Chief of Staff Jeff Greene, Jim Hosking,and Don Bayti ( Dyno Don of the Faithful mailing list). Also in attendance via phone were Dennis Valentine and Eddie Barbosa. The meeting was positive and constructive with continued cooperation between Assemblyman Jeffries and the LASC assured to finalize the bill's development.  In the coming months, the LAG and the LASC will be developing plans to address issues such as developing bi-partisan support for legislation, and gaining State-wide voter support through education and awareness of the threats to the collector vehicle hobby.  The committees functioned well given the compressed time-frame and represented, for possibly the first time, participation on a State-wide level by all interested parties in a united effort to work toward our common interests.

For more information on how you can participate in the LAG and receive regular e-mail updates on the committee's activities please contact either; Butch Gardner kroozesafe@d-web.com (530) 677-4761 or Art Quillen at asq1949@sbcglobal.net.

The Association of California Car Club needs the help of collector car enthusiasts from all over the country because of the old saying "What happens in California usually follows in the other states". Do you want to keep your car and have the privilege of driving it when and where you want? If so, please go to the acccdefender.org website and keep up on the latest news about what the ACCC is doing to protect the collector vehicle hobby. The ACCC conducted a survey and based on input from various car clubs and individuals across the state of California, over 36 million dollars are donated to charities annually by collector vehicle enthusiasts. Please contact one of the ACCC Board of Directors for more information. Click on the Contact section of the website and you will find the names and email addresses of the ACCC Directors

Bob Stearns
ACCC President

The SEMA Action Network (SAN) is looking for committed, passionate SAN members to recruit new members.  The SAN is a grassroots organization that plays a critical role in shaping legislation impacting all car and truck hobbyists.

 Entrants are responsible for identifying and signing-up new members. The entrant who enrolls the most new, unique SAN members by September 1, 2011 will win airfare, hotel accommodations, and passes for two as SEMA's guest to the otherwise industry-only 2011 SEMA Show (November 1-4, 2011) in Las Vegas!  Ten runners-up will win a one-year subscription to the Source Interlink Media automotive publication of their choice!

The Challenge will run from February 15, 2011 to September 1, 2011 and is open only to SAN members, 18 years or older, who are legal residents of the U.S. and Canada (except Quebec). Entrants must notify SAN Director, Mike Dingell, with their name, address, and phone number, via email at miked@sema.org, and declare their intent to participate.  Registration of new members under the Challenge can only be made at www.semasan.com/san/join.aspx and contest entrants must ensure that new members mention the entrant's name in the "please specify" portion of the online registration form under "How Did You Hear About SAN?"  Without this information, these new members will not be considered (or recorded) as part of this Challenge.  Entrants cannot complete the sign-up on behalf of the new members.  New members must sign-up on their own and input the contest entrant's name on the online sign-up form.

This is a perfect way to do your part in ensuring the preservation of our hobby. SAN relies on a strong, broad, and vocal group of enthusiasts to fend off attacks aimed at dissolving our rights. Through this program, you can play a vital role in expanding the power of our voice by increasing our numbers... and win entry into the world's premier automotive specialty products trade event!

Please click here http://new.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?id=62882 for contest rules and prize information.

If you would like to participate or get more information, please contact Mike Dingell at miked@sema.org or call (202) 783-6007, extension 38.

Annual Event Acknowledges Importance of Collection and Restoration of Classic Cars

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Councils announced July 8, 2011 as "Collector Car Appreciation Day."  The date marks the second commemoration in what will become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.  SEMA and its councils are now working to secure a Congressional resolution to recognize the day's significance. 

"Last year, the United States Senate helped launch the first national Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing Senate Resolution 513 at our request," said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald.  "As a result, thousands of Americans gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation's automotive heritage.  As we move forward, SEMA's commitment to preserving and promoting the automotive restoration industry through its projects and programs is evident in this special day."

S. Res. 513 was sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus members Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC).  Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and the resolution reaffirmed their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars.  The Caucus is an informal, non-partisan group that pays tribute to America's ever growing love affair with the car and motorsports.  The Caucus recognizes the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation's appreciation for the automobile's unique historical place in our history.  

The SAN will maintain a list of scheduled events to commemorate America's time-tested love affair with the automobile.  Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Mike Dingell, Director, SEMA Action Network (SAN) at 202/783-6007, ext. 38 or miked@sema.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 8th, the SAN encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July.

Torq Launches State-of-the-Art Performance Parts, Accessories & Racing Equipment Online Store (www.gettorq.com) Check out more after the jump.

Miramar, Florida, January 13, 2011 - Torq Speedlab, LLC announced today the launch of its online store at www.gettorq.com.

Torq is the domestic automotive aftermarket's newest one-stop shop for performance parts, accessories, tuning, racing equipment, merchandise and much more. Torq focuses on late-model GM/Chevrolet vehicles (2010 Camaro, C5 and C6 Corvette, GTO, G8), Ford Mustang (S197, SN95) and Dodge HEMI vehicles (Charger, Challenger, Magnum, SRT-8 Jeep).

"We have been working very hard to make our online store the most comprehensive and easy to use aftermarket performance parts and technical online resource for late model domestic vehicle owners," said Paul Meister, Managing Member and EFI Calibrator at Torq. Meister continued "The site launched and we are already working hard to improve the shopping experience. Our business is not selling low- cost parts with false promises about improvements, functionality and power gains - we test every product we sell and provide our honest feedback. We're about helping our customers select the right parts at the right price, and our online store is the first step towards establishing a multi-national platform to do that."

Torq has the ability to source specific products and deliver them fast, directly to its customers. The state-of-the-art online store features performance parts, billet accessories, apparel, racing and safety equipment and beyond from your favorite aftermarket brands including: Kooks Custom Headers, MBRP Exhaust, Vararam Intakes, COMP Cams(R), Eibach and Steeda.

Torq's online store takes all of the guesswork out of online shopping. Users have the ability to narrow their search results using Torq's product filtering system - streamlining the search process. The site's unique bidirectional navigational tool allows users to quickly and easily change product categories without having to reselect a vehicle year, make, model or sub-model. In conjunction with the launch of its online store Torq has also launched its free Muscle CardTM Rewards and Loyalty Program that lets customers earn points as products are purchased in store or online. Muscle CardTM cardholders will have the ability to view, manage and track their Muscle CardTM reward points online and will be entitled to receive special membership pricing and discounts.

Also part of the new online store is Torq's Muscle Blog where customers can check out the latest industry trends and news, or look for installation instructions and videos.

Torq will be adding parts to its online inventory daily so if the part you are looking for is not listed online, please call Torq toll free at 877-870-TORQ, Monday to Friday (7:30a.m. - 7:30p.m. ET) for telephone orders and support. As a bonus, telephone orders for parts not currently listed online will receive a $25.00 Torq gift card that can be applied to future purchases. Additionally, the first 25 customers will receive a free gift with all purchases.

About Torq Speedlab, LLC
Torq Speedlab is a full service, performance-oriented automotive facility that offers enthusiasts all of the necessary services under one roof. Torq sells quality parts and provides unparalleled service and custom dynamometer tuning that combines to generate significant results for its customers. Torq's flagship store and corporate headquarters is an exercise in efficiency, dedicated to providing automotive fanatics with the ultimate performance parts experience.

Torq is located at 11952 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, Florida 33025. Phone: 954-251-2110/877-870- TORQ (8677) or please visit www.gettorq.com.

Become a Facebook fan and check out Torq's YouTube page and receive special promotional codes for discounts, free shipping and other offers.

The charity is running a Corvette through Barrett-Jackson’s 40th Anniversary 2011 Auction in Scottsdale, AZ for the second year in a row. A beautiful 1973 Corvette Stingray will cross the block on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 as lot #413 at approximately 7:00 p.m. Arizona time.

 Can lightning strike twice? The Chip Miller Charitable Foundation (CMCF) hopes so! The charity is running a Corvette through Barrett-Jackson’s 40th Anniversary 2011 Auction in Scottsdale, AZ for the second year in a row. A beautiful 1973 Corvette Stingray will cross the block on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 as lot #413 at approximately 7:00 p.m. Arizona time.

The CMCF ran a 1974 Corvette through the 2010 Barrett-Jackson Auction that raised a strong $47,000 for the Foundation. The Foundation is hoping another bidder will generously step up and become a part of automotive history in purchasing the 1973 Stingray. All proceeds from the auction of this Corvette will go toward amyloidosis research.

Chip Miller was co-founder of Corvettes at Carlisle and Carlisle Events in Pennsylvania. Chip was very well-known and loved in the Corvette community worldwide and in March 2004, he passed away from a little-known disease called amyloidosis. The Chip Miller Charitable Foundation (CMCF) was formed to help spread awareness of this disease and raise money for educational and research purposes.

The Foundation's goal is for earlier diagnosis to affect better treatment outcomes. If Chip and his doctors were aware of the symptoms of amyloidosis when they first presented, he might still be with us today. The mission of the CMCF is to empower people with the knowledge and understanding of amyloidosis for earlier detection, ensuring a better quality of life for those afflicted with the disease and to help science find the cures.

The 1973 Corvette Stingray was generously donated again by San Diego Classic and Muscle Cars of Escondido CA. It is being auctioned at no reserve at Barrett- Jackson and is Mille Miglia Red with a black interior and T-Top with bags. It features a matching numbers original L48 350cid V8 with an automatic transmission, factory air-conditioning, power windows, steering and brakes, tilt and telescoping wheel. The car was recently serviced when new brake calipers and tires were added and given a thorough detail. This model Corvette features the first year GM added a steel bumper covered by deformable urethane plastic that was matched to the body cover to meet the new five-mile-per-hour front-impact protection rule. The original owner’s books also come with the car.

The car will include a goodie bag from the sponsors including new custom floor mats and the 2nd edition of the Corvette Bible written by Mike Yager from Mid America Motorworks. And the new owner will also get the ultimate Corvette experience including two passes to the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, four passes to the National Corvette Museum and a season pass to Carlisle Events – all donated to the Foundation for this effort.

During the 2010 Auction, the “auction experience” featured the first-ever wedding at Barrett-Jackson (click here to read more). The newly married couple, Donna and Joe Miller (no relation to Chip Miller) drove the Corvette onto the block at auction time. “I’m not sure we can top that,” said Lance Miller, Chip’s son, “but we’re sure hoping this car does well to help us fight the terrible disease that took my father too soon.”

Tune in to Speed TV to watch the action - the car is lot number 413 and is scheduled to roll across the block at approximately 7:00 pm Arizona time on January 19, 2011.

About the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation: Information about the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation and to make a donation, visit www.ChipMiller.org.

Michael Irvine's "C1, See Them All" painting spans 54 years  and all Corvette generations. Special pricing is now available.

It's every classic car enthusiast's dream to come across that legendary grove of cars. Over the years, Michael has heard his share of these legends, and like many, has been skeptical of their true existence... until the summer of 2010 that is. That’s when he met "Jerry" at Carlisle, and not only heard about the field of 1000 cars, but saw the photographs, for himself.

The photographs revealed fields dedicated to many makes and models. Having been there himself, "Jerry" estimated there were actually close to 10,000 cars in total, scattered across dozens of fields. And one field was all Corvettes - including a 1967 427 Tri-Power. That was all the inspiration Michael needed for "C1, See Them All."

Once again, a special introductory price is offered on the Limited Edition Prints, Artist Proofs with Remarque and Gallery Edition Canvases. Introductory pricing is in effect right through Christmas, until December 29, 2010.

For more information and pricing, please visit http://michaelirvine.com/automotivefineart/C1-C6_Corvettes/index.html

The new Director of the SEMA Action Network Mike Dingell addresses all car ethusiasts with his pledge to protect our hobby.

Dear Fellow Car Enthusiast:

It is with great pleasure, and a sense of excitement, that I write to introduce myself as the new Director of the SEMA Action Network (SAN). 

As a lifelong gearhead with roots tracing back to the Motor City, I am very proud to take on the responsibility of leading America's premier automotive enthusiast network in the battle to protect our cherished heritage.  In an era of increasing governmental involvement in the hobby, it is imperative that we remain organized and stand together.  We must continue to ensure that lawmakers, both on Capitol Hill and in state houses across the nation, hear our voices loudly and proudly.  We will not stand idly and allow America's automotive traditions to be legislated out of existence.  In addition, we will promote pro-active policies that benefit the hobby.  As I assume the mantle of this great organization, that is my pledge to you.

I come to this job abundantly aware that the fight to defend the hobby from aggressive regulation may not be easy, but it is a necessary one.  For 14 years, the SAN has staved off attacks from forces seeking to create obstacles to our responsible enjoyment of this hobby and made strides towards ensuring its future.  Continue to stay informed.  Respectfully let your legislators know where you stand on the issues.  Most importantly, spread the word.  Let your friends, family, and fellow enthusiasts know the vital importance of SAN's mission and to join the cause.  As always, joining the SAN at  http://www.semasan.com/san/join.aspx is FREE and carries no obligations. 

I look forward to meeting each of you at events across the country and working together towards the preservation of our hobby. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me via email at miked@sema.org. 

Very Respectfully,
Mike Dingell

New www.RASR.org site directs racers to sanctioned racetracks

In an effort to move drag racing from the streets to the racetrack, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and the Street Performance Council (SPC) have launched an all-new "Racers Against Street Racing" (RASR) website, located at www.rasr.org, that makes it easier for visitors to find a nationwide listing of sanctioned racetracks.

"The message is clear and simple: If you want to race, go to a racetrack," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO.  "There are fun, legal ways for drivers to enjoy racing, and taking it to a track will ultimately save lives."

The goal of RASR is to educate drivers about the dangers of street racing and aggressive driving stunts that put them -- and others -- at risk of serious injury and death. The new site features tools that evoke engagement from site visitors. It also provides individuals with a resource to locate professionally controlled environments in which today's performance and speed enthusiasts can participate in automotive-related events throughout the United States.

Adopted by SEMA in 2001 to spread the message about the dangers of street racing, RASR is comprised of a coalition of auto manufacturers, aftermarket parts companies, retailers, distributors, professional drag racers, sanctioning bodies, race tracks and automotive magazines devoted to promoting legal alternatives to illegal street racing on a national level. RASR is administered through a task force within the SPC and action is driven entirely via a team of volunteers.

"The Street Performance Council is once again excited to be aligned with RASR and feel that with the new direction we can truly make an impact on the street racing," said Tracie Nunez, SPC Chairman.

RASR and industry professionals are constantly working to spread the word and make it "cool" to get off the streets and onto the track. Local police agencies and racers often partner with RASR to bring better involvement and understanding from both sides. To learn more about the program, visit www.RASR.org.

PhantomALERT, now available for iPhone, Android smart phones and leading GPS models, gives visual and audible traffic and safety alerts right to your phone.

Hate traffic tickets? Who doesn't? And now you can use your iPhone to detect and avoid costly traffic tickets with PhantomALERT. Simply go to the app store or iTunes and search for "phantomalert". Download the app and you will be alerted to over 400,000 enforcement and safety locations. You will receive accurate visual and audible alerts for speed traps, red light cameras, speed cameras, school zones, rail road crossings, dangerous intersections, DUI check points and more. You will literally be reminded of all known speed trap areas before you even get there, giving you the chance to slow down.  You will see them before they see you. If you hate traffic tickets, then this is an app for you. The first time it saves you from a costly traffic ticket, it's paid for itself.

Another cool feature is the live traffic camera feed of over 7000 cameras. As you drive, PhantomALERT will serve you live traffic camera feeds closest to you. You can now actually see what traffic looks like on your route before you leave home or office. You can take a quick look at the app and see if the roads are clear or jammed.

PhantomALERT is now available for the iPhone, Android smart phones and Garmin, TomTom and Magellan GPS. BlackBerry app will be on the market end of June.

FREE Trial for IPhones. Click here. http://bit.ly/pa-itunes

Also available for Android Phones. Click here http://www.phantomalert.com/FAQs/Smart-Phone-POIs-are-on-their-way.html

Just search for "PhantomALERT" in the iPhone or Android app store.

www.permatexrepair.com Features innovative repair kits with how-to videos and step-by-step instructions.

 Permatex, a leading innovator in chemical technology for automotive maintenance and repair, has just launched www.permatexrepair.com, a new website designed to help consumers find easy, repair solutions that they can do themselves, and save lots of time and money. The website currently features 13 repair kits and offers solutions to restore cloudy headlights; refinish damaged alloy wheels; repair small bullseyes and chips in windshields, reattach rearview mirrors; seal leaky fuel tanks, radiators, and plastic window washer reservoirs; fix stripped threads; reconnect broken rear window defoggers; patch up cracked fiberglass; and repair torn vinyl and leather.

According to Adam Cincotta, Permatex Product Manager, "In addition to step-by-step instructions, we've included how-to videos for several of the repair kits, so consumers can see, first hand, exactly how to fix the problem themselves and avoid taking them to a professional repair shop. Our 'Which kit is right for you' section provides a quick overview for all the kits and where they can be used on the vehicle."

The new website also has a special 'Where to buy' section to help customers easily find the Permatex Repair Kit they need at the nearest retailer. Permatex products are sold in auto parts, hardware, and grocery stores, as well as mass merchants and discount outlets.

Suggest A Kit Promotion

Permatex has also launched a promotion to help get more repair ideas from consumers. From now until October 16, 2010, Permatex will be conducting a weekly sweepstakes that gives consumers a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to their local auto parts store and free Permatex products. No purchase is necessary. Consumers can go to www.permatexrepair.com, submit their ideas for a new Permatex repair kit, and be part of a weekly drawing. More details and information on the promotion can be found at www.permatexrepair.com.

(By Christina Wilkie, www.thehill.com
Posted - 05/05/10 07:38 PM ET)

As oil from a spill spread in the Gulf of Mexico and the Times Square terror investigation continued apace, the Senate took time out on Tuesday for some very important business: car appreciation.

It’s official: The passage of Senate Resolution 513 designates  Friday, July 9 as Collector Car Appreciation Day.

 On the Senate floor, Majority Leader Harry Reid’s (D-Nev.) voice dripped with contempt as he ordered the presiding officer to read the resolution, filled with lines about the importance of automobiles and how they “have provided the inspiration for music, photography, cinema, fashion.”

The resolution “encourages the people of the United States to engage in events and commemorations” in honor of classic cars.

Reid waited until the end of the reading to let it rip. “We’ve had a big day in the Senate ... and we have been able to accomplish almost nothing — not quite, but almost nothing. I love old cars, and I am glad we are able to pass this important legislation: Collector Car Appreciation Day,” he said sarcastically.

Not surprisingly, Reid blamed GOP obstructionism on issues like Wall Street reform for why the Senate was spending time passing bills about old cars. He also managed to get in a jab at lobbyists in their “Gucci shoes and new suits and a lot of new ties.”

(Courtesy www.thehill.com)

(Scott's comments: Evidently,"Dingy Harry" has never heard of SEMA, nor about the big SEMA Show every November in his state's largest City, Las Vegas...or how the automotive aftermarket contributes some $30 billion + to the economy each year..nor does he complain when those "Gucci-shoed" lobbyists come calling on hin with cash/comps in hand.

Isn't he getting to be more and more like the corrupt Nevada Senator seen in the movie The Godfather, Part II? )

Things were looking a little grim for Corvette Racing at the halfway point of the 100-minute American Le Mans Series race at Long Beach, but Jan Magnussen battled back from sixth to a runner-up finish in the #3 Compuware Corvette C6.R.

 Magnussen and teammate Johnny O'Connell threaded their way through the unforgiving concrete barriers that line the 1.968-mile Long Beach street circuit to finish four seconds behind the #45 Porsche of Pat Long and Joerg Bergmeister. The #4 Compuware Corvette of Oliver Gavin and Olivier Beretta was not so fortunate, finishing bruised and battered in ninth at the checkered flag.

"It was a fantastic team effort to finish where we did," said Magnussen. "With so little time on the race track, to have a race car this good shows just how strong Corvette Racing is."

The #3 Corvette C6.R made its single pit stop for fuel and four Michelin tires under caution at 57 minutes into the race. Needing less than half a tank of E85 ethanol to make it to the finish, the yellow Corvette came into the pits in third place but returned to the track in sixth.

"We had a small problem in the pit stop," Magnussen explained. "Because it was such a short pit stop, I wasn't able to get myself ready in the cockpit, so we lost positions in the pit lane. I knew exactly what had happened - I wasn’t upset, I was just motivated to get back to the front. I had a great car and I was able to take back the positions one by one."

Magnussen gained a spot when the class-leading Ford GT pitted. The two BMWs had gambled on running the race without a tire change, and Magnussen was able to pass the # 90 BMW going into the Turn 11 hairpin to take third with 11 minutes left in the race. With the four frontrunners running nose-to-tail, Magnussen stalked the #92 BMW on the back straight and made the pass stick in Turn 9 with two minutes remaining. He set off in pursuit of the # 45 Porsche, but ran out of time before the checkered flag.

O'Connell had started the opening stint from third on the GT grid, lost a spot at the start, and then passed the No. 45 Porsche to retake third. He held that position behind the # 17 Porsche of Wolf Henzler and the pole-winning #62 Ferrari of Jaime Melo to the fateful first pit stop.

"It's hard when you have a street race with different categories sharing the same track," O'Connell said. "I think we were competitive and as fast as anyone, but traffic would separate the GT cars and then it was difficult to make that back up. You hope for a caution to open an opportunity, and as things worked out, I think we can be proud of a fine result."

The # 4 Corvette started fifth, and Olivier Beretta had moved up to fourth by the 30-minute mark, but an encounter with a tire barrier damaged the front bodywork and driver's door, dropping Beretta to eighth. Gavin took over the #4 Corvette at 46 minutes, but had to make two subsequent pit stops for additional repairs.

"There was confusion at the front, and one of the Porsches braked early," Beretta reported. "I jumped on the brakes, tried to slow down, missed a gear, and lost the car. I was in the wrong place at the wrong moment."

"A ninth-place finish certainly wasn't what anybody wanted," said Gavin. "It seems like the #4 Corvette can't get a break at the moment. The car was good, even with the damage we had, but realistically we weren't going to move up in the finishing order and I just brought it home without risking the car. There were cars spinning off right and left in front of me, and a car even spun into the wall in front of me behind the pace car!"

"It's great that our sister car got a fantastic finish here, and Jan and Johnny have got themselves back in the hunt. So now it's on to Laguna Seca, with the hope that our fortunes will soon turn around."

Corvette Racing program manager Doug Fehan reflected on the race: "It was an absolutely awesome effort today by the crew and drivers," he said. "In order to compete with the best, you have to believe you're the best. Today we raced against the best, and we had a very, very good outcome."

Corvette Racing’s next event is the American Le Mans Monterey at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on Saturday, May 22. The six-hour race on the legendary road course, located on Northern California's historic Monterey Peninsula, will start at 2:30 p.m. (Pacific Time), and will be televised by CBS Sports on May 29 at 1:30 p.m. (Eastern Time).

American Le Mans Series at Long Beach GT Results:
Position/Drivers/Car/Laps
1. Bergmeister/Long, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 65
2. O'Connell/Magnussen, Chevrolet Corvette C6.R, 65
3. Auberlen/Milner, BMW E92 M3, 65
4. Melo/Bruni, Ferrari 430 GT, 65
5. Mueller/Hand, BMW E92 M3, 65
6. Sellers/Henzler, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 65
7. Sharp/van Overbeek, Ferrari 430 GT, 65
8. Brown/Cosmo, Ferrari 430 GT, 64
9. Gavin/Beretta, Chevrolet Corvette C6.R, 63
10. Robertson/Murry, Ford GT, 62
11. Gentilozzi/Dalziel, Jaguar XKRS, 45
12. Law/Neiman, Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 28

(Story courtesy Corvette Racing)

(Photos by Butch Noble)

Yes, that is a green car you're looking at. And, yes, it is a 1975 Corvette Stingray coupe. What's the big deal, you
say? How about only 14,000 original miles on it...and some background on how the '75s relate to the Vettes of today.

You'll find the story inside June's Corvette Fever...and this car on the cover!

Back in 1975, the base L48 350 in the Corvette wasn't much to write home about, compared to the factory-equipped Vettes of just a few years before. But '75 marked a turning point for Corvette, and the cover feature in June's Corvette Fever covers that while telling you the story behind Kevin J. Smith's low-mileage Shark. 

You'll also find three other cool (and distinctively rare) feature Vettes...must-reads on how to pick a Corvette shop and how to secure your trailer....plus tech features, columns, history and more...all in June's Corvette Fever....get it NOW!

During the '60s a lot of servicemen drove America's Only True Sports Car while off-duty...and June's Corvette Fever has the story of one of them--a split-window who's travels you have to read about to believe!

For years, the U.S. Air Force's Strategic Air Command (SAC) was the most visible element of our nation's nuclear-deterrence program. (One false move by the wrong guys, and SAC B-52s were headed their way pronto.)

During Arnold Yuen's tour of duty with SAC, he scored this '63 split-window, but he had to leave it in less-than-ideal long-term storage. June's Corvette Fever has the story of this Midyear, its travels, and how Arnold restored it to the trophy-winner you see here.

You'll also find features on three other rare-and-distinctive Vettes...Rich Lagasse's latest on securing your trailer....how to pick the right Corvette shop for repair, resto or VetteRodding work...and much more.

Find June's Corvette Fever on your local news stand, book seller's shelves, or at your hometown news agency NOW!

Here's something to get you thinking about the weekend (or what you'd like to take out on the road this weekend): a rare '69 Stingray convertible.

How rare? Our feature in June's Corvette Fever tells you how rare...and it's on the stands NOW!

How many '69 Stingrays had leather interiors? OK, how many of those leather interiors were red? And how many of 'em went into convertibles? And how many of those look as sharp as this one--Chris Mazzilli's '69?

Joining Chris' Shark in June's Corvette Fever is a must-read guide on how to pick the right Corvette shop...tons of tips and advice in our monthly tech columns...and much more.

Why wait? It's at your news agent, local news stand or book seller NOW!....but it won't stay there forever!

You already know that Sting Rays are cool, but how about one like this '64--wearing its original paint, and other year-correct goodies...something you'll see only in the June Corvette Fever, which is on the stands NOW!

Yes, that Ermine White acrylic lacquer on Doyle Thomas' '64 Sting Ray is its original paint. So's everything else on it--except the air conditioning. (Our feature on Doyle's '64 tells how and when that went in.)

Also in the June Corvette Fever: How to find the right shop for your Corvette...more of Rich Lagasse's trailer basics 101...plenty to tech advice...and much more.

All in the June '10 Corvette Fever, at your newsstand, book seller or news agent NOW!

OPTIMA Batteries extends its search for 2010 Ultimate Street Car Invitational finalists through a series of regional qualifiers, the first to take place at historic Road America race track.

OPTIMA(R) Batteries will kick off its nationwide search for the 2010 Ultimate Street Car on May 1-2 with the first-ever OPTIMA Street Car Faceoff, to be held at the historic Road America race track in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The OPTIMA Street Car Faceoff, presented by Baer Brakes and Detroit Speed & Engineering, is an exciting new race event to showcase automotive performance, styling and aftermarket products as select vehicles compete in a series of events including the BF Goodrich Hot Lap Challenge, the Detroit Speed & Engineering Speed Attack Autocross, the Baer Brakes Speed Stop Challenge, and a style and design competition. The Spectre Top Speed Award will be given to the competitor with the highest speed, as measured on a specific location on the Road America race track.

OPTIMA and its partners will celebrate the entire Street Car Faceoff weekend with activities that unite the performance automotive aftermarket industry. The famed Roadster Shop in Mundelein, Illinois, home to the 2009 Good Guys Street Machine of the Year, Barry Blomquist's "C1RS" '62 Corvette, will host an open house on Friday, April 30 at 11:00 a.m. CST. On Saturday, May 1 starting at 8:00 a.m. CST, the group of vehicle owners, drivers, designers, manufacturers and media will gather for breakfast, sponsored by Pennzoil, at Andrew Chevrolet dealership in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, not too far from the OPTIMA Batteries and Johnson Controls corporate headquarters. The group will then begin the OPTIMA Street Car Faceoff Road Rally to Road America. Upon everyone's arrival, D&Z Customs and West Bend Dyno will sponsor a lunch to kick-off the action-packed weekend.

"True to our goal with the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational, the Street Car Faceoff is about bringing the 'street' back to street machines by taking competition off the trailer and onto the track," says Cam Douglass, director of product development and marketing for OPTIMA. "The OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational is about taking the world's finest street cars and putting them to the test. Our mission with this event, and others throughout the year, is to find them."
 
The OPTIMA Street Car Faceoff is the first event in an ongoing series of qualifiers for the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational, held each year immediately following the SEMA Show. These additional qualifying events will occur in different regions around the country, widening the playing field to allow more people the opportunity to be involved. The winner of the OPTIMA Street Car Faceoff will receive an invitation to the Ultimate Street Car Invitational to compete for the coveted Ultimate Street Car title among up to 50 of the highest quality street cars in the world. For more information on the OPTIMA Faceoff at Road America competition and activities, visit www.optimainvitational.com.
 
The OPTIMA Street Car Faceoff sponsors include: Baer Brakes; Detroit Speed & Engineering; BF Goodrich; Pennzoil; The Roadster Shop; FM3 Performance Marketing; Andrew Chevrolet dealership; Spectre Performance; Carbon Kustoms; D&Z Customs; and West Bend Dyno.
 
About OPTIMA(R) Batteries
OPTIMA YellowTop(R), RedTop(R) and BlueTop(R) batteries are available through leading battery distributors throughout the globe. Consumers should look for the unique colored top and six-pack design for which OPTIMA is known throughout the world.  For the nearest retailer, consumers can also call 1-888-8OPTIMA (1-888-867-8462) or visit www.optimabatteries.com.

The original FAST™ EZ-EFI® featured patent pending technology with the most advanced self tuning control strategy available anywhere today. You could simply hook up the necessary wires, answer the basic setup Wizard questions on the included hand-held display and the system tuned itself as you drove. But now there is an EZ-EFI® Dual Quad Self Tuning Fuel Injection System that features all of this same technology and is capable of supporting up to 1000+ horsepower engines and has the ability to double your fuel capacity!
 

This new system is offered as an upgrade kit to the existing EZ-EFI® kits* and adds several additional parts, including a second unique throttle body for use with existing dual quad carburetor-type manifolds, injectors and a basic linkage kit necessary to hook the two throttle bodies together (works with most inline manifolds).

The original EZ-EFI® Self Tuning Fuel Injection System is a complete kit that includes the ECU, wide-band oxygen sensor, wiring harness, fuel injectors, optional fuel pump kit and other assorted components, including the innovative 4150 Throttle Body. The FAST™ 4150 Throttle Body delivers the total package approach for anyone with an existing 4150-type intake manifold. Everything comes with the kit, including appropriate fuel injectors and fuel rails. In addition, it works with the original carb-style throttle linkage and is ready to accept all OEM sensors.

For more information about the FAST EZ-EFI® Dual Quad Upgrade Kit or any other FAST product, call our toll free EFI HELP help line at 1-877-334-8355, or visit online at www.fuelairspark.com.

* Dual Quad Upgrade Kit must be used in conjunction with the original FAST™ EZ-EFI® Self Tuning Fuel Injection System, Part #30226-KIT or #30227-KIT

The original Doug’s Headers has announced a New and Improved version of their popular all stainless steel construction electric exhaust cut-outs in 2 1/2” and 3” diameters. The engineers at Doug’s have taken their famous electric exhaust cut-outs and dramatically decreased the size for more versatile installations while lowering the price as well.

These cut-outs feature a rugged gear reduction 12 volt DC motor and a rotating gate for a leak proof seal every time the cut-out is opened and closed. Unlike butterfly style cut-outs the Doug’s cut-outs don’t have the leaky gasket sound and when fully opened there is no exhaust flow obstructions.
   
A pre-wired harness with an illuminated rocker switch is supplied for easy installation.  Un-cork your exhaust with the flip of a switch from your dash. The cut –outs are ideal for race tracks that don’t require mufflers. These Doug’s cut-outs are available in singles or pairs and in complete kits with Y-Pipes for easy installation

Contact your Performance Retailer or call Doug’s Headers Direct at 909 599-5955 for the name of a local dealer or more information.