---

SEMA/FORD Deliver on Technology Transfer

16 May 2000

SEMA/FORD Deliver on Technology Transfer

    DIAMOND BAR, Calif., May 15 The Specialty Equipment Market
Association (SEMA) and the Ford Motor Company have launched Phase I
of the SEMA/FORD Technology Transfer Pilot Program.  The inner workings
between SEMA and Ford were years in the making, with the intent to share a
wide range of technical information.
    Phase I of the historic partnership allows SEMA members to access
thousands of technical files online for the 1999 and 2000 Mustang GT,
including dimensions, tolerances, electrical schematics and engine and
powertrain drawings.  Phase II, which will be available in the June timeframe,
offers a breakthrough process to obtain custom-developed onboard diagnostic
(OBD-II) calibrations to accommodate performance parts on Ford vehicles.
    The pilot program between SEMA and Ford made its official debut at the
recent SEMA/OEM Roundtable Tech Talks in Detroit and was first announced at
the 1999 SEMA Show International*Tire Expo.
    "Never before has the industry had such complete access to technical
information needed to quickly bring quality specialty automotive products to
market," said SEMA President Charles R. Blum.  "Better still, the information
can be downloaded for use in a manufacturer's design system or for print out."
    The program reflects both organizations' commitment to helping specialty
automotive companies provide car and truck owners with high-quality products
for vehicle personalization.  "As a consumer-focused company, we want to
establish a grassroots connection with our customers," said Bob Rewey, group
VP, Ford Marketing Sales and Service.  "This initiative with SEMA provides our
customers with a tremendous opportunity to personalize their vehicles, which
leads to greater product appeal and higher customer satisfaction."
    "I think we are seeing a new age in the relationship between companies
such as ours in the performance aftermarket and the carmakers," said Scooter
Brothers of Competition Cams.  "Having access to these drawings during the
initial phase of design for aftermarket parts will result in higher quality
parts, a shortened production cycle, and cost savings passed on to our
customers."
    With the successful implementation of this pilot program, SEMA hopes to
expand the database sharing throughout the balance of the Ford family of
vehicles.  In addition, SEMA anticipates partnering with other OEM
manufacturers on similar programs.