Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Giant Audi Q9 Spotted in Germany

Audi is getting set to introduce a flagship model to its SUV lineup, and a prototype of the upcoming Audi Q9 has been spotted in Germany sporting several notable distinctions from the Q7.

The latest images have revealed that, while the Q9 draws inspiration from the Q7, the differences are striking. Both models share a similar front-end design with split-level headlights, but a side-profile view highlights the Q9's significantly larger engine bay.

The bodywork also sets the Q9 apart from the Q7, with a height increase of approximately 5 to 8 in. Upon closer inspection, you'll notice slight modifications to the bumpers and prominent roof rails. However, the most significant changes are found at the rear, where the Q9's tailgate diverges considerably from that of the new Q7. The Q9 features a more angular design and a thin double strip that spans the tailgate, necessitating the relocation of the license plate to the bumper--a characteristic often seen in tailgates with hinged halves. The taillights, however, remain consistent with those on the new-generation Q7.

The extended wheelbase and overall length promise enhanced luxury and comfort for passengers. The cabin of the Audi Q9 will accommodate five to seven seats in standard configurations, with the option for four to six seats featuring independent armchairs, potentially bearing the Horch badge, similar to the Audi A8.

Whether the Q9 will be available in Europe remains uncertain, but it is clear that this model is designed to support powerful gas engines, such as the 4.0L twin-turbo V8, as well as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) with six-cylinder and 3.0L options. Given its substantial weight, the Q9 will require significant power to navigate effectively.

As for the launch date of the new Audi Q9, it remains a mystery. Its testing frequency has been limited, leaving its development stage unclear. However, rumors suggest it could be unveiled in the first half of 2026, possibly at one of the major auto shows in China.

Gas-Powered Kia K4 Hatchback to Replace Ceed in European Market

The Kia K4 hatchback is expected to make its United States debut in 2025, but new images from Sweden show that it will also be the replacement for the European Ceed.

Power will likely come from a 2.0L naturally aspirated gas engine that is expected to deliver 147 hp via a CVT transmission. A 1.6L turbo will create 190 hp and will be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

By SEMA News Editors

PFC Brakes

Rotor Assemblies and Brake Pads for BMW, Toyota Applications

PFC Brakes has introduced new brake pads, offered in an ABS-friendly race compound, for F- and G-series BMW M models, as well as front and rear floating rotor assemblies for the F-Series BMW M models. The rotors utilize the user-friendly V3 snap-ring system, according to the manufacturer, allowing for improved cooling. The company also recently introduced new direct-fit brake pads and V3 rotor assemblies for the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.

pfcbrakes.com

BluePrint Engines

Magnuson Supercharged LS-Compatible Crate Engines

BluePrint Engines has expanded its lineup with new supercharged LS-compatible crate engines. These high-strength, LSX-style block offerings feature a Magnuson 2650 supercharger on both 376ci and 427ci configurations. Dyno-tested at BluePrint's facility in Kearney, Nebraska, the 376ci engine produces 700-plus hp, while the 427ci engine delivers more than 800 hp, according to the manufacturer.

blueprintengines.com

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

CDXS Coilover and Suspension Systems for '24 Toyota Tacoma

ICON Vehicle Dynamics has introduced new CDXS Compression Damping Dual Speed shocks and coilovers, as well as complete suspension systems, for the '24 Toyota Tacoma. With independent compression damping adjustability for both high-speed and low-speed shock velocity, CDXS allows drivers to fine-tune their vehicle's performance, optimizing for both normal driving conditions and more aggressive scenarios.

'23-'24 Toyota Sequoia TRD 2-in. Dual-Rate Rear Coil Springs & Suspension Systems

The company has also released 2-in. Dual-Rate Rear Coil Springs for the '23-'24 Toyota Sequoia TRD, along with 2.5 VS Shocks and Coilovers for the '23-'24 Sequoia TRD Pro. ICON Vehicle Dynamics has also configured a range of new 3- to-4.5-in. complete suspension systems for both '23-'24 Sequoia TRD and TRD Pro.

iconvehicledynamics.com

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) named Skyjacker Suspensions as the council's newest spotlight member. Get to know the company's story in the SEMA News interview with Malerie Pike, Skyjacker Suspensions director of marketing, below.   

SEMA News: Tell us the story of your shop.  

Malerie Pike: Lonnie McCurry's 4-Wheel Drive Center began in a shop in the backyard of the husband-and-wife team, Lonnie and Nell McCurry. It started as a passion for growing the hobby that he and his friends enjoyed, which was racing and mud digging. 

In 1974, Skyjacker Suspensions was established. Today we have more than 80,000 sq. ft. of facilities, more than 50 employees, and three generations working in the business. We just celebrated our 50-year anniversary. 

SN: What was your breakthrough moment?  

MP: Lonnie McCurry Sr. is known for the drop pitman arm. He worked with Ford Motor Company and their OE supplier in 1980 to develop the first aftermarket drop pitman for lifted trucks. This innovation helped correct and control bump steer, allowing for additional suspension travel and lift heights. 

In the early days we were known for lifting trucks and using softride leaf springs. Then in the '90s, Rock Read Long Arm Kits were born for the Jeep market; these helped put us on the map. 

SN: Tell us about your business in 2025. 

MP: We are a three-generational company forging forward while keeping our same small-town values. We just expanded our ADX Shock line which now includes aluminum-body coilovers and stabilizers, which we are really excited about. 

SN: Tell us about a package/product that you are proud of.  

MP: Right now, it would be the ADX Adventure Series Shock line. 

SN: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket? 

MP: Always ask the question; knowledge is power, and if you do not know something, do not be afraid to ask the question. The worst you can get is a 'no'. 

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Chelsea Frantz, motorsports coordinator at Mickey Thompson, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Frantz in her interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Chelsea Frantz: I have been with Mickey Thompson for three years now. I mostly enjoy the interaction with racers--the new, experienced and up-and-coming. I enjoy hearing about daily track experiences, improvements made to their cars and what they plan on doing for the season to come and contingency.

SN: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job?  

CF: Communication. I know that it is a simple task, but it can also be the hardest thing. Not only are the men in our lives running down the track at high speeds, but so are our minds. We need to stop and take a minute to communicate with the ones around us and make sure our personal, department and professional goals are met on a timely manner.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?  

CF: Mickey Thompson is actually my first position in the automotive industry, but I grew up around cars. My dad was into drag racing.

SN: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?  

CF: One: hard worker. I put my air pods in and I'm in the zone! I hate to admit, but if I can't sleep, I'll knock out some emails and set myself up for success for the next day.

Two: positive attitude. Positivity is key, which means knowing when you need to boost the morale of the team and when you need to have that good customer service voice. Even when you're having a bad day, you may never know when that small amount of positivity can make someone's day.

Three: I'm fairly organized. I live by my Google calendars; they are my lifelines.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?  

CF: My favorite is when a man asks to speak to another man, because the woman doesn't know what she's talking about. For example, we were at an event and a gentleman came around asking about Bonneville tires. He asked to speak to a man, but I was the only one at the event with the information he was looking for, and who was knowledgeable on the topic. Unfortunately, he was not happy that a man was unable to speak to him about the topic. Me on the other hand, I was proud of myself.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?  

CF: My girl, EJ! I met her a few years ago at Roadkill Nights and we clicked instantly. She's kicking major butt working on cars, building cars, welding, you name it! I don't see her too often, but she is just an inspiration to any woman who wants to do the thing and build the build.

She has helped me along the way because she has showed me that girls can do literally anything, all while looking pretty and chugging a crisp Dr. Pepper.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

CF: As a woman, don't let a man stand in your way. There are times to be a kitten, but there are also times when you need to be the lioness. Meaning, just because you look cute and girly, doesn't mean that you can't stand your ground.

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?

CF: Honestly, I wanted to be on the other side of the sports industry. I wanted to be Erin Andrews growing up. But seeing how much fun and fast-paced the automotive industry is, I think I like it over here. The racers have become almost like family. The guys I work with have also become like the brothers I've never had. They are such an amazing group of guys, and I appreciate the amount they have taught me over the years.

SN:  Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?  

CF: I would have to say my dad. From introducing me to the industry, to the weekends and late nights at the track, he has always inspired me to be around cars in some way. When talking to him about work, he has always taken the chance to tell me how proud of me he is. I take that near and dear to my heart. When he officially retired from drag racing and I started at Mickey Thompson (literally happened in the same summer), it was almost like one door closed and another one opened. He was passing down an automotive torch.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.  

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) is accepting product entries for its Hot Products Showcase, scheduled for April 23-25, at the Spring Carlisle show in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. ARMO members who would like to have their products included in the showcase and exposed to thousands of consumers at the event can sign up until April 4 using this form.

The ARMO Hot Products Showcase is a popular feature of the Spring Carlisle event and enables manufacturers to display their latest innovations in a dedicated, high-traffic area. With thousands of automotive consumers and enthusiasts on-site, the showcase is the best place to maximize product exposure at one of the world's largest and most prominent collector car events. 

Manufacturers are only responsible for shipping their products in advance with a return label or dropping off and picking up their products on-site. ARMO volunteers set up and take down the product display, providing the manufacturer with a seamless, minimal-effort experience. During the event, Carlisle attendees will vote for their favorite products to receive an award in the categories of exterior, interior, engine, accessory item, drivetrain/brakes/suspension and People's Choice.  

Product award winners will be recognized on SEMA's digital channels and honored at the ARMO Reception at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November. The awards provide added value to the manufacturer, setting them apart as leaders in innovation within the automotive restoration market.  

Click here to start the product submission process. 

For more information on the ARMO Hot Products Showcase, visit here.

By SEMA News Editors

Housing reservations are now open for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, including several new hotels, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

SEMA and onPeak are always striving to offer SEMA Show exhibitors and attendees with the best deals at the best hotels in Las Vegas. New properties are now available to book this year, giving SEMA Showgoers an extensive lineup of housing options for the 2025 SEMA Show.

New hotels and exclusive nightly rates for 2025:

• Circa - $149
• Fontainebleau - $295
• Four Seasons - $399
• Rio - $126

SEMA and onPeak have negotiated the best possible rates, giving Showgoers cost-saving benefits alongside a myriad of other perks, like fully flexible booking, possible hotel rewards points and group reservations at the best hotels in Las Vegas. SEMA Showgoers can only get the discounted rates when booking through the only official hotel provider, onPeak, here.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Recent actions by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have generated headlines and misinformation among automotive enthusiasts, particularly about defeat devices used to skirt emissions laws and whether or not their use will be enforced upon the industry.  

SEMA has the facts and dispels some myths that are circulating online. Learn more here. 

Questions? Contact Matt Daigle at mattd@sema.org. 
 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Recent actions by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have generated headlines and misinformation among automotive enthusiasts, particularly about defeat devices used to skirt emissions laws and whether or not their use will be enforced upon the industry.  

SEMA has the facts and dispels some myths that are circulating online. Learn more here. 

Questions? Contact Matt Daigle at mattd@sema.org. 
 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

The exhibitor space rental agreement for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, is open online here, but the deadline to secure your preferred booth space is quickly approaching.

Exhibitors must submit their signed booth agreement and deposits by Friday, March 28, to be included in the priority booth space selection process.

Securing your booth space is the first step toward success at the SEMA Show, which presents an unrivaled opportunity for aftermarket companies to drive sales, meet new clients and increase brand awareness.

While space applications are accepted at any time leading up to the event in November, submitting an ESRA and deposit by March 28 will give exhibitors the first opportunity to select their booth locations for the upcoming SEMA Show, where you can showcase your brand's latest and greatest parts and products to a massive audience of aftermarket dealmakers, business peers and automotive enthusiasts.

"Nowhere else can we get to this many of our dealers and our consumers and show them new products that they get to touch and feel," said exhibitor John Meyers, KICKER. "On the internet, you just don't get that experience."

Exhibiting at the SEMA Show offers a myriad of benefits to your brand:

Increase Your Brand Awareness

Whether you are an established brand or looking to go from garage to global, exhibiting at SEMA is the best investment to advance your brand goals.

Connect With Your Customers

See existing customers and connect with them on the Show floor. Determine their business needs and use this opportunity to strengthen relationships.

Expand Your Sales Channels

The connections you make at the SEMA Show can help take your products to new markets, whether through retailers, distributors or other sales channels, expanding your brand’s reach domestically and internationally.

Introduce New Products

We know you want your latest and greatest products to be seen by a large audience of potential customers and the SEMA Show guarantees opportunities for that to happen.

To reserve a booth at the 2025 SEMA Show, visit here. For more information, visit here.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Alpine Goes Back to the Future With '28 A310

French sports car manufacturer Alpine is set to make waves with its upcoming all-electric '28 A310, which promises to blend performance, innovation and eco-friendliness, marking a significant step in Alpine's future in electric sports cars.

The original Alpine A310 launched in the '70s and was celebrated for its lightweight design, agile handling and distinctive styling. The '28 model will pay homage to the original while embracing modern technology, according to the manufacturer, and is expected to retain the classic A310 silhouette while incorporating contemporary elements.

SEMA News sources recently snapped the first images of what appears to be an early test mule of the A310 in northern Scandinavia.

Based on the performance-oriented Alpine Performance Platform (APP), the architecture has been designed to be as configurable as possible and will underpin the future compact four-seater.

The decision to make the A310 a four-seater comes in line with Alpine's transformative initiative to move away from being a niche manufacturer to becoming a key volume player on the world stage, according to insiders.

Volkswagen Readies New Generation of Bestseller T-Roc

Volkswagen's commercially successful T-Roc will enter a new phase in 2025 as it prepares to debut the second generation of its best-selling model. Coming to European dealers for model-year '26, the compact crossover was recently spotted by SEMA News sources.

Camouflage replicating the first generation hides the evolutionary changes underneath, with the front of the vehicle featuring cues from the European model Tayron.

The camouflaged prototype further shows a large radiator grille with a honeycomb pattern and a light bar connecting the revised headlights. Volkswagen designers further enlarged the lower grille, but insiders do not expect it to accommodate anything larger than a four-cylinder, 2.0L engine.

An illuminated VW badge up front will be complemented by another one for the liftgate. Out back, a second light bar can be seen running across the width of the camouflaged liftgate. Similar to the outgoing model from the sides, the second generation is certain to receive small infotainment and switchgear updates.

The T-Roc is expected to be built on the MQB Evo architecture, which currently underpins the Golf and Passat, and enables a greater degree of electrification, insiders said.

A three-pedal setup is likely to continue as the standard transmission choice for the 1.0L TSI, as well as the standard 1.5L TSI and 2.0L TDI powerplants. The high-output engines are both rated at 148 hp.

Those in the market for something hotter will be hopefully offered an R performance version powered by the iron-block EA888 engine of the Golf R.