Ultra Wheel's Smith honored by WTC

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 19, 2015) — Jim Smith, founding owner of Ultra Wheel Co., was inducted into the Specialty Equipment Market Association/Wheel & Tire Council's hall of fame during the WTC's social reception Nov. 3 in Las Vegas.

The WTC described Mr. Smith as an entrepreneur and racer who has dedicated his life to the automotive industry. He has been involved in the aftermarket wheel business for several decades and is an active philanthropist and racing advocate.

Among his accomplishments in the racing world, Mr. Smith was active both as a driver and team owner.

As a driver, he won numerous off-road races, including multiple victories in SCORE and/or HDRA events. He is credited with the idea and inception of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck series — now known as the Camping World Truck Series.  

In addition he owned two Craftsman Truck Series teams — winning the season championship in 2005 with driver Ted Musgrave — and a Winston Cup car team.

He founded Ultra Wheel in 1984. The Fullerton, Calif.-based company is considered one of the largest U.S. aftermarket wheel manufacturers, engineering, designing, producing and distributing internationally.

It sells under the Ultra, Focal, Platinum and Worx brand names.

Mr. Smith also is active in philanthropic endeavors. In 1994, he organized industry friends to form the fundraiser, Wheel Friends of Childhelp, which supports the efforts of Childhelp, non-profit dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse.

During its existence, Wheel Friends has raised more than $2.25 million to support Childhelp USA's efforts.