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SEMA stands as the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. Even though it isn't open to the general public, the 2012 SEMA Show drew in over 100,000 industry leaders and more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers as well. Every year hundreds of cars are displayed at the Convention Center in Las Vegas, while thousands of car and auto enthusiasts make their rounds. If you attended this year, you might have noticed a first ever Varis Widebody EVO X on the West Coast built by Eric McWilliams from Team Hybrid's Las Vegas Chapter lead by Archie ConCon.
SEMA featured 2008 Mitsubishi Evo X
Team Hybrid was founded in 1995 by James Lin the current President of the company. They specialize in import builds for race, street, and show cars. Team Hybrid is a company with outstanding performance, innovation, dedication and passion for the automotive aftermarket industry. Team Hybrid had a number of cars on display at the 2012 SEMA show, and it wasn't their first rodeo either. 2012 marked the 14th anniversary for Team Hybrid's attendance at SEMA.
Eric McWilliams brought Lancer Evo X to Las Vegas SEMA show
In the past, Team Hybrid has built cars for Scion's Team, including the xA, xD, and tC. James Lin states, "Our Specialty is attention to detail and thinking outside the box, while making sure that every aspect of the vehicle is assembled well and completely."
Team Hybrid's cars aren't just for looks and racing, they're made to last as well. This Evo in particular, is a daily driver. Even though Eric's Evo X is equipped with over 40 different modifications, that doesn't stop him from driving this beauty daily - and can you blame him?
Let's face it, this car is hooked up! Evo enthusiasts will be the first to notice the wide-body fenders on this car - these allow for wider rims which can help handling, while improving the look of the car as well.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X at the 2012 SEMA show
A few other modifications include a Mishimoto Performance Aluminum Radiator, Status Ring Carbon Fiber Seats, or maybe the Agency Power Exhaust Manifold with a Greddy Ti-C Turboback Exhaust in the rear. When it came to induction for this wide-bodied masterpiece, Team Hybrid looked to K&N to provide them with a high performance air filter. The K&N filter was installed on the Evolution X, which helped improve its performance through greater airflow. "We have been using K&N for over 18 years," says James Lin, who helped get the car owner Eric McWilliams sponsored with K&N. "K&N products increase power, and are easy to maintain and clean while withstanding the test of time."
Modifications for Eric's 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X:
Engine
Aeromotion R2 Static Wing on Lancer Evolution at SEMA
Jonathan Allard wins 2012 "King of the West Championship" in his 410ci Sprint Car
The 2012 season was good to Jonathan Allard and his Williams Motorsports 410ci sprint car team. For the third time in his career, Allard was crowned King of the West champion, culminating what was already a career year.
“Winning another King of the West championship was huge for our team,” Allard said. “At times the west coast gets shunned for a lack of talent, but on a nightly basis we run against World of Outlaw champions and Hall of Famers who can win races anywhere in the world, and to win a title with those types of drivers competing is a major accomplishment, and a true testament to our team.”
There is some tough Sprint Car competition on the west coast
Allard and his team showed the west coast can compete with the big money teams at the legendary Knoxville Nationals. Allard competed all weekend and had a chance to do some real damage in the feature, until a parts failure ended his night early.
“Making the feature at the Knoxville Nationals and having that good of a starting spot was something we were proud of,” Allard said. “The last few years we had terrible luck during our preliminary nights and found ourselves in the back of the alphabet (for the mains), so having a strong run really meant a lot to the team.”
“Unfortunately we were disappointed again, even though we started at the front, we had a shock break during the main and it really kept us from having the type of night we are capable of. We were strong but we just had some bad luck, this time during the feature.”
Sadly for Allard, tragedy struck multiple times. First, fellow racer and friend David Tarter died after a tire he was working on in the pits exploded back in June.
Some tough losses for Jonathan Allard came in 2012, followed by many checkered flags
“I learned we could overcome tough circumstances, and pull together to win races. It was tough to focus on racing, but we came together and honored our friend with a win that night.”
Then, over the Christmas holiday, while Jonathan was in New Zealand competing, news broke that his older brother, fellow sprint car champion Stephen, died. The news crushed the northern California racing community, which also lost champion Tyler Wolf in an on-track crash late in the season. Allard plans on returning to the states and running a similar schedule to 2012 in honor of his brother.
The Williams Motorsports team has this to say about K&N: “K&N Filters provide us with the components we need to win races. Crew Chief Ashley Smith busts his tail in the shop during the week using K&N products to get our car ready to go compete.”
Dominic’s convincing win at Kings Speedway in Hanford earned him respect from the some of the best racers in the sport
Here’s a concept you can bank on – a reality show following the full spectrum arc of two brothers fueled by super-charged racing DNA. Dominic is fifteen and Giovanni is ten, and over the past several years the Scelzi brothers have continued to evolve into respected giant killers on the track right in front of our eyes. They either win or finish up front most times, and when they don’t, you can bet they learned something and will come back even wiser and stronger the next time out. The maturity curve is highly accelerated when you grow up on the track, and these two siblings make it look easy.
Back in September at Kings Speedway in Hanford, California Dominic lined up with 17 of the biggest hitters in the game, racers on the level of Tommy Tarlton, Tim Kaeding, and Jason Stattler. After some thoroughly engaging and highly continuous racing, Dominic got the sign that Tim Kaeding was charging up behind him looking for a mistake and an opening to pass. With a final flare of drama on the white flag lap, Dominic drove into turn one a bit too hot and he slid up the race track, allowing Kaeding to gain four car lengths on him. Yet, when the checkered flew Dominic was the winner by nearly three car lengths. It was his second win of the season.
“After the race all of these great drivers came over to congratulate Dominic on a great race, which is probably even more outstanding than the win,” remarked Dominic’s dad, NHRA Top Fuel drag race legend Gary Scelzi. We spoke with Gary to get his overview of 2012 and the continuing success of his sons.
Giovanni continued to finish in the top 5 all season long
Put into perspective how significant Dominic’s win at Hanford was going up against all those heavy hitters?
“This was huge! Dominic was very excited and relieved to prove to himself that he could run with the heavy hitters. For me, every time Dominic gets in this car it’s big. I am so proud of his hard work and focus in learning how he can become a better driver each time he gets in the seat.”
You mention that Kaeding Performance, and especially Matt Britt and Tres VanKeuren are taking Dominic to another level, what aspects of racing have they been helpful with?
“Yes, Dominic has improved rapidly with the help from everyone at Kaeding Performance. Dominic feels very fortunate having the opportunity to learn from a legendary driver like Brent Kaeding. The experience is priceless. There is so much knowledge within the Kaeding Performance umbrella that every person there has helped and continues to help Dominic become a better driver/racer and person. Dominic’s experience comes from the Super 600 Mirco Sprints, and even though the 360 Sprint Car looks just like a larger version of the Micro, they are very different.”
Working with Kaeding Performance this year has elevated Dominic’s track performance to next level
How is Giovanni since his mishap at Watsonville is he feeling back up to speed?
“Yes, Giovanni is back in the seat, he is more than ready to race at every opportunity he gets. He continues to run in the top 5 everywhere we go.”
How did things go for you at the Super 600 Nationals at Plaza Park Raceway?
Well the boys raced in the same class for this race. They both had qualifying struggles. The Friday main event started with Dominic on the Pole and Giovanni 3rd, and all the heavy hitters where there. Dominic won and Giovanni finished 5th.”
“In the Saturday night main event Giovanni started 16 and finished 8th, and Dominic started 22nd and finished 5th. Both boys did great jobs. We finished the weekend safe and sound and with no car damage.”
From your view, how did 2012 treat you guys overall?
“2012 has been a great year for Dominic and Giovanni. Dominic’s first year in 360 Sprint Cars gave him two wins, and a great showing at the Trophy Cup in Tulare, and several top finishes, along with a great deal of knowledge and he is only 15. Giovanni’s first year in the Stock 600 Micro Sprints gave him two wins at 10 years old. It has been amazing watching these two. We are all really looking forward to the 2013 Season!”
There are many drivers and enthusiasts around the world that have been involved with project show car builds. Taking an American classic or a sporty import and transforming it into a car show sensation is a popular hobby in the US. However, not so many of these builders do so with their own daily driver, except for Sam Piazza and his 2010 Camaro SS.
2010 Camaro SS at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada
"I am a car enthusiast who really loves cars," said Piazza. "I love building them not to only look pretty, but perform like a monster on the track."
Getting a dedicated show car ready for SEMA is quite a challenge, but doing so with your own daily driver seems to be an entirely new challenge. "I have been going to SEMA since 2009," reported Piazza. "It takes a lot of stress, long nights, help from friends, and dedication to get your car ready for SEMA.
Sam Piazza's SEMA featured 600HP Camaro SS Turbo
Thousands of people are going to see your car, so you want it looking its best." Even last minute touches to vehicles can be stressful. "Every time I go to SEMA, I would be working on the car the night before roll-in."
With about 6 years of experience working with project vehicles and a youthful start being around anything automotive, Sam being only 23 years old has completed more than some industry veterans have accomplished. "...I still have much more knowledge to gain. This is only my second project/personal car that I put my heart and soul into. I really don't have a specialty, but can do a little of everything... I know my weakness is electrical though."
When asked what the inspiration or the theme of his Camaro build was, Sam replied, "I wanted to make my Camaro like no other Camaro that you would see out there (or in SEMA). There are a few custom made parts that you would only see on my car at SEMA. I also wanted it to have that sinister look at the same time. That's why I went with the black brushed wrap from 3m. I know you wouldn't see another Camaro with that wrap, plus it gave it that mean look."
Rideskinz Aggressor LTZ front fascia bumper with carbon accents displayed on Camaro SS at SEMA
To complement the styling for the exterior, Sam's SS also sports a powerful Turbonetics single turbo kit and a K&N performance air filter to fit his custom intake tubing making a mean look into mean power. "I used a K&N... because I know that they are one of the best filters out there and wanted to get the most flow into the turbo without sacrificing filtration," said Piazza. "I first used K&N products when I was around 13 and replacing my mother's air filter in her car. So ever since then [I've] been using some kind of K&N intake on my cars."
Hopeful and looking forward to 2013, Sam is expecting to finalize his Camaro along with his team and car building friends at Team Ar-Kan. "My goal for the coming year is to keep modifying the car to where I think needs improvement," said Sam. "I want to get some kind of air suspension, big brake kit, rear end upgrade, and whatever will make my car look better. The main goal is to win some kind of award to every show that I attend. When asked about his dream for the Camaro Sam replied, "My dream goal is to have my car featured in Chevy's booth at SEMA 2013." An excellent goal to strive for from an up and coming builder just waiting for his break in the automotive world. Sam also mentioned his thanks and gratitude towards all around him during his projects. "I want to thank my family and girlfriend first for putting up with my crazy car addiction, [and for] always letting me borrow their cars when my car is getting worked on. Second my friends for helping me build my car. My friends at Team Ar-Kan are like my second family and a lot of us rolled together to SEMA 2012." Sam also went on to thank all the sponsors and manufacturers involved with the build.
Sam Piazza's 2010 Chevy Camaro SS is modified with the following:
Turbonetics Single Turbo Kit on this SEMA show Camaro SS
Engine/Trans:
Turbonetics Single Turbo Kit (600RWHP/650 Torque at 8 PSI)
JBA Straight Pipes
Zoomers 3inch Cat-Back Exhaust
AEM Water/Meth kit
Hallman Pro RX Manual Boost Controller
K&N Air Filter
Granatelli High Performance Spark Plug Wires - 0 Ohms
Tech AFX Hose Re-locator Kit
ACT Street Clutch Kit with lightened Flywheel
Carbon Fiber Engine Covers
Hurst Short Throw Shifter
CMS Tune
Suspension:
Hotchkis Suspension Sway Bars
Hotchkis Suspension End links
2010 Camaro SS sporting 22 Inch Savini Black Di Forza BM-4 Wheels at SEMA
Hotchkis Suspension Strut Bar
Hotchkis Suspension Chassis Brace
Megan Racing Fully Adjustable Coilovers
Spohn Rear Trailing Arms and Tie Rods
Prothane Bushings-Full kit - (Arms, Diff, Sub-Frame, Every Bushing on Car.)
Hawk HPS Brake Pads
Wheels:
Savini Black Di Forza BM-4 Wheels - 22 Inch
Exterior:
Rideskinz Aggressor LTZ front fascia bumper- With Carbon Accents
Rideskinz Prototype Side Skirt - Carbon Fiber
3M Black Stainless Brushed Metallic Wrap - Wrapped by RoloTech Car Wraps
Seibon Carbon Hood Tinted Black
Seibon Trunk Tinted Black
Extreme Dimensions Wing Tinted Black
Dry Carbon Wrapped Roof
ABlaze Grille
SEMA featured this modified 2010 Camaro SS with 3M Black Stainless Brushed Metallic Wrap
Painted Brembo Brakes with Camaro Logos
Interior/Electronics/ICE:
Cipher Auto Racing Seats - CPA2001, Harness Bar, and Harnesses
Corey LaJoie wins NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race at Greenville Pickens Speedway
Corey LaJoie won the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race at Greenville Pickens Speedway in South Carolina, but the post-race inspection might have cost him the series championship.
The race was supposed to run on Sept. 3, but it was cancelled and rescheduled because of rain. LaJoie had to start from the back of the field because he was late to a driver's meeting when the race was originally scheduled.
Corey LaJoie at Greenville Pickens Speedway for NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race
Still, LaJoie worked his way through the field, took the lead on lap 146 during a green-white-checkered flag finish in the Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet 140, and won the race leading the last lap of the race.
It was his fifth win of the season and his third in the past four races.
But after the race, track inspectors found an unapproved carburetor in his engine. LaJoie was penalized and lost 25 points in the K&N Pro Series East standings.
He went from having a six-point lead heading into the season finale at Rockingham Speedway in North Carolina to being 19 points out of first place and in third place in the K&N Pro Series East standings.
LaJoie took the lead on the final lap of the race after Brett Moffitt made contact with him in turn 3.
LaJoie still has a shot at the K&N Pro Series East championship. But he will have to overtake rookie Kyle Larson, who leads the standings, and Brett Moffitt.
Rain was a factor again in the race at Greenville Pickens. The start was delayed and the race took 1 hour, 13 minutes to complete.
Brett Moffitt, who started on the pole, led the first 144 laps of the race. On the final restart, he was in the lead and made contact with LaJoie in turn 3 on the final lap of the race. LaJoie made the pass, but Moffitt lost control and started a chain-reaction crash.
"I thought we had a pretty good run on him on the high side after the restart," LaJoie said. "Went down into one and he rubbed me up into Spartanburg. He got clear on the backstretch, I was like screw you right back. So I went down there to give it to him. Got him loose, got him out of the groove and got the checker."
Chase Elliott made it through to finish in second place. Rookie Jesse Little posted his best career finish in the K&N Pro Series East in third place.
"The restart right after, I don't think I would have been able to make it through," Little said. "I followed him through and luckily we were able to make it out of there safely."
Moffitt ended up in ninth place after dominating the field the entire night.
Larson, who entered the race as the leader in the K&N Pro Series standings, was fourth. He was followed by Brandon Gdovic in fifth.
Larson has a 10-point lead over Moffitt, who is in second place in the K&N Pro Series East standings. Elliott is still mathematically in contention, 30 points out of first place and in fourth place in the championship standings. Rookie Bryan Ortiz, winless in 13 K&N Pro Series races this year, is in fifth place in the standings, 45 points behind Larson.
"We're going to do the exact same thing if we were up by 50 or down by 50," LaJoie said. "Worry about ourselves, don't worry about anybody else and be in position when the checkered flag drops."
The K&N Pro Series East finale, the Classic 3 Championship presented by the RCR Racing Museum, will be at Rockginham Speedway on Nov. 3.
