MEMA and The Development of the Industry

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Suppliers played a significant role through the creation of MEMA to advocate for the interests of the vehicle supplier industry, to shape regulations, and to foster innovation in automotive technologies.

1904: Foundation

Establishment of the Motor and Accessory Manufacturers Association, providing a collective voice for the burgeoning automotive parts industry.

Early Century: Advocacy and Standardization Beginnings; Networking and Economic Navigation

1900s – 1920s: Early Advocacy Efforts: The association begins to advocate for the automotive industry on issues of tariffs, trade, and early regulations.
Push for Standardization: Initiates efforts towards the standardization of automotive parts and manufacturing practices to ensure compatibility and quality.
Establishment of Foundational Groups: MEMA Financial Services Group is established in 1914 to facilitate transparency and communication between suppliers and customers.

1920s – 1930s: Formation of Networking Platforms: Establishes events and meetings that allow industry members to exchange ideas and foster collaboration including, in 1933, co-sponsoring the first Automotive Service Industries show, a forerunner of AAIW and AAPEX.
Response to the Great Depression: Offers support and resources to help members navigate the economic challenges of the 1930s, emphasizing adaptation and resilience.

World War II and Post-War Era

1940s: Contribution to the War Effort: Members pivot to support wartime production needs, showcasing the industry's adaptability and innovation.
Post-War Industry Support: Post-World War II, the association aids in the industry's transition back to consumer markets, supporting rapid growth and technological advancement in automotive manufacturing.

Mid 20th Century: Innovation and Diversification

1950s-1960s: MEMA advocates for automotive safety and emissions standards, contributing to the development of regulations that lead to the introduction of safety belts, airbags, and emissions control technology in vehicles, including the National Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Committed to Advocacy: MEMA opens its office in Washington D.C. in 1960.
Advancing Technological Innovation: Continues to support and promote innovation within the industry, setting the stage for future developments in automotive technology.
Global Influence Solidifies: The association's standards and practices begin to influence automotive industries globally, establishing American manufacturers as leaders in quality and innovation.

Late 20th Century: Environmental Awareness and Technological Advancements

1970s: MEMA plays a crucial role in the automotive industry's response to the oil crisis, promoting the development and integration of fuel-efficient technologies and components.
MEMA advocates for the passage of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
Answering the Call for Collaboration: MEMA establishes first of its many councils: Transportation Safety Equipment Institute (TSEI), MEMA Information Services Council, and Automotive Public Relations Council (APRC).
Increasing Technology: MEMA directs the creation of TransNet in 1977.
1980s-1990s: MEMA's efforts lead to advancements in automotive technology, including the adoption of electronic components and systems, contributing to improvements in vehicle efficiency, safety, and performance.
In 1983, MEMA creates a platform to focus on the commercial vehicle market, helping suppliers advance their commercial vehicle business.
Establishment of Industry Week: MEMA spearheads efforts to consolidate multiple automotive aftermarket trade shows and the first Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW) opens in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The OE market segment of MEMA opens its office in Michigan.

Early 21st Century: Electrification, Autonomy, and Trade Policy

2000s: MEMA supports the development of ADAS and electric vehicle (EV) components and systems, facilitating the automotive industry's shift towards technology and electrification while also ensuring suppliers remain financially sound in the wake of OEM bailouts.
MEMA establishes the only association to exclusively serve the business needs of aftermarket product manufacturers.
2010s: MEMA's advocacy and research contribute to the advancement of autonomous driving technologies and the promotion of connected vehicle systems, influencing regulatory standards and industry practices.
Recognizing the need for global collaboration, MEMA forms the International G7 with trade associations from India, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Europe, and USA.
MEMA establishes a platform bring focus to the circular economy and the value of remanufacturing.
2018-2020: Leading up to the USMCA's ratification, MEMA plays a pivotal role in advocating for the agreement's provisions that specifically benefit the automotive supply chain. The association works closely with policymakers and industry stakeholders to ensure the new trade deal includes measures that:
- Enhance the rules of origin requirements to ensure a higher percentage of vehicle content is sourced from within the USMCA region
- Introduce labor value content requirements, promoting fair labor practices and potentially shifting some manufacturing processes back to the United States and Canada.
- Provide a transition period for the automotive industry to adapt to the new rules, recognizing the complexity of automotive supply chains and the need for time to adjust to the enhanced requirements.

2020s: The Global Push Towards Sustainability

Early 2020s: MEMA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility, advocating for policies and standards that support the adoption of electric and autonomous vehicles, and working with its members to innovate in areas critical to the future of the automotive industry, such as battery technology, electrification components, and cybersecurity for connected vehicles.
2020-2024: MEMA addresses challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability of the vehicle supply chain. The association also plays a critical role in advocating for policies that support the recovery and growth of the automotive industry, including incentives for EV manufacturing and infrastructure development.
MEMA's Center for Sustainability is established to advance and support sustainability initiatives and assist suppliers in navigating the landscape of sustainability.
MEMA takes bold steps in a realignment to position the organization for the future creating greater access to thought leadership, networking, and research for suppliers.

2025 and Beyond

MEMA will continue to hold true to the original purpose for which it was founded, to advance the business interests of suppliers and create a growing, profitable, innovative, and influential supplier community.