By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is bringing hot-rod education and networking to the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, as part of its Education Days program, taking place August 6-7.  

 

What Is HRIA Education Days?

HRIA Education Days is a popular program enabling NSRA Street Rod Nationals attendees to join hour-long educational seminars led by top manufacturers in the hot-rod space. The seminars feature valuable information and insights into best practices for building a hot rod and installing and choosing certain products.

 

What Topics Will Be Covered?

HRIA Education Days at the NSRA Street Rod Nationals will feature 10 seminars scheduled throughout two days. Topics include "Steering System Setup for Custom Builds: Parts, Setup and Performance," "Performance A/C Systems: Components, Installation and Avoiding Common Mistakes," "Automotive Wiring Essentials: Relays, Protection and Practical Tips," "Inside Engine Manufacturing: From Design to Dyno" and more. View the full schedule.

 

Benefits of Attending

HRIA Education Days makes it easy to obtain detailed information about product selection, installation best practices and industry trends directly from technical experts and manufacturers who work with hot-rod products and systems daily. All seminars are free to NSRA Street Rod Nationals attendees. 

 

To view the full seminar schedule or learn more, visit sema.org/hria-education-days.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Ferrari Unveils an Exclusive Ferrari Luce Tailor Made for Charity Auction During Monterey Car Week 2026

 

Ferrari has announced that an exclusive Ferrari Luce Tailor Made, a unique masterpiece and the very first Luce chassis, will be auctioned by RM Sotheby's during the prestigious Monterey Car Week in California in August 2026. Developed in close collaboration with the Ferrari Tailor Made program and the Ferrari Design Studio, "Chassis 0" represents one of the most advanced expressions of Ferrari's technical innovation, research in the fields of design, materials and color, and artisanal excellence.

 

Proceeds through The Ferrari Foundation, a 501(c) (3) public charity, will be partly donated to ongoing educational projects in the United States and partly to M-TECH Alfredo Ferrari.

 

As the Maranello marque's first electric Ferrari and first four-door, five-seat vehicle, the Ferrari Luce combines driving thrills, performance, versatility and comfort, according to the automaker.

 

FERRARI LUCE–TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

 

Dimensions and Weight

• Length: 197.9 in. (5,026 mm)
• Width (without mirrors): 78.7 in. (1,999 mm)
• Height: 60.8 in. (1,544 mm)
• Wheelbase: 116.6 in. (2,961 mm)
• Front Track: 66.8 in. (1,696 mm)
• Rear Track: 66.5 in. (1,690 mm)
• Curb Weight*: 4,982 lbs. (2,260 kg)
• Weight-to-Power Ratio: 4.76 lbs./hp (2.16 kg/cv)
• Weight Distribution: 47% Front / 53% Rear
• Cargo Capacity: 21.1 cu. ft. (597 L)

Tires

• Front: 265/35R23 on 23x9.5 wheels
• Rear: 315/30R24 on 24x11 wheels

Brakes

• Front: Carbon-Ceramic (CCM), 390 x 34 mm
• Rear: Carbon-Ceramic (CCM), 372 x 34 mm

Powertrain

• Electric Motors: Four (one per wheel)
• Maximum Power**: 1,050 hp (772 kW)
• Maximum Torque (at motors)**: 730 lb.-ft. (990 Nm)
• Maximum Torque (at wheels): 8,482 lb.-ft. (11,500 Nm)

Front E-Axle

• Axle Output: 282 hp (210 kW)
• Wheel Torque**: 2,508 lb.-ft. (3,400 Nm)
• Motor Torque**: 207 lb.-ft. (280 Nm)
• Power Density: 3.23 kW/kg (93% efficiency)
• Maximum Motor Speed: 30,000 rpm
• Weight: 143 lbs. (65 kg)

Rear E-Axle

• Axle Output: 831 hp (620 kW)
• Wheel Torque**: 5,716 lb.-ft. (7,750 Nm)
• Motor Torque**: 524 lb.-ft. (710 Nm)
• Power Density: 4.80 kW/kg (93% efficiency)
• Maximum Motor Speed: 25,500 rpm
• Weight: 284 lbs. (129 kg)

Battery

• Cell Count: 210 (15 modules with 14 cells each)
• Total Energy Density: 195 Wh/kg
• Cell Energy Density: 305 Wh/kg
• Gross Capacity: 122 kWh
• Maximum Voltage: 800 V
• Maximum Charging Rate: 350 kW

Performance

• 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h): 2.5 sec.
• 0–124 mph (0–200 km/h): 6.8 sec.
• Top Speed: 193 mph (310 km/h)
• Estimated Range***: 329 miles (530 km)
• Energy Consumption (WLTP): Pending Homologation

* With optional equipment.
** In Launch Control mode.
*** Manufacturer estimate; certification pending homologation.

 

Learn more here.

 

 

Turn 14 Adds New Outside Territory Manager

 

Turn 14 Distribution is strengthening its representation in the powersports sector with the addition of Garrett Comer as outside territory manager for the Arizona and California territories.

 

An avid off-road enthusiast, Comer brings previous industry experience to the role, in addition to an understanding of dealer and distributor dynamics, the company said. He previously served as a general manager and parts specialist with a large dealer group in Arizona.

 

As outside territory manager for Arizona and California, Comer will continue to define and expand Turn 14 Distribution's presence in the powersports realm, the company said. With an emphasis on further growing dealer trust, Comer is primed to help position Turn 14 as a pillar in the powersports aftermarket moving forward and will share the Southwest territory with counterpart Brenden Gill, according to Turn 14.

 

For more information, visit turn14.com.

 

 

Ferrari Luce image courtesy of Ferrari

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Roush Performance

'27 Ram 1500 Direct Connection by Roush

Built on the '27 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 with a 5.7L Hemi V8, the OEM-backed package adds a Roush coil-over suspension, 33-in. all-terrain tires, an active cat-back exhaust, exclusive exterior styling and premium interior accents while retaining the truck's factory drivability, towing capability and advanced driver-assistance systems. Available through Ram dealers in five exterior colors, the truck combines Ram's proven capability with Roush's performance engineering for a more capable, off-road-ready pickup, according to the company.

 

Hot Shot's Secret

Pure Diamond Bypass Filtration System

 

Hot Shot’s Secret has launched the Pure Diamond Bypass Filtration System, a bypass oil filtration solution engineered to deliver cleaner oil and extended engine life across a range of application, the company said. A supplemental oil filtration system has been engineered to continuously remove solid contaminants such as wear metals, carbon (soot) and dirt from engine oil at a controlled rate, capturing particles down to two microns.

hotshotsecret.com

 

 

Wilwood Disc Brakes

Flexline OE Caliper Brake Lines

 

Wilwood Disc Brakes has rolled out a new high-performance Flexline program for OE calipers. Specific to year, make and model, Wilwood’s OE Flexline kits are direct replacements for factory rubber lines, providing the correct length and fittings from the vehicle’s hard lines to the calipers. High-performance features include a Teflon inner liner, a tightly woven stainless steel braid and an outer layer of PVC armor.

wilwood.com

 

 

RETRAC

Mack Anthem and Pioneer MagLatch Brackets

 

Now available for select Mack Anthem and Pioneer trucks, RETRAC MagLatch mounting brackets make grille guard installation faster and easier than ever. Engineered for a secure, vehicle-specific fit, these brackets provide fast, drill-free installation of compatible RETRAC grille guards.

retracmirrors.com

By Ashley Reyes

 

Are you a truck and off-road builder with great skills and ideas? 

 

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) will be featuring up to 10 standout builds at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, as part of its Feature Vehicle Showcase. Submit your application now at www.sema.org/tora-feature-vehicles.  

 

The TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase is open to current TORA members as a membership benefit. Not a TORA member? Learn more and join.

 

What's in It for You:

 

1. SEMA Show Feature Vehicle Placement

Your vehicle will be displayed in a high-traffic, outside walkway between the Las Vegas Convention Center North and West Halls, exposing your brand to thousands of key decision-makers, buyers and media representatives.

 

2. Strengthen Your Credibility

Your participation in the Showcase signals that your business meets the highest standards of innovation and creativity in the truck and off-road space.

 

3. Compete for an Award

All TORA Feature Vehicles are eligible to win the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award voted on by SEMA Showgoers. The winner will be announced in front of industry peers during the TORA SEMA Show Reception.

 

4. Build Awareness of New Products  

Buyers and media are always looking for what's new and different. The Showcase is your opportunity to spotlight noteworthy products and demonstrate real-world applications. 

 

5. Gain Brand Exposure Beyond the Show

All TORA Feature Vehicles are promoted on TORA's social-media channels and SEMA News during and after the SEMA Show.

 

Ready to expand your reach and reputation in the truck and off-road industry? Start here.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

President Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation on Monday, July 13, modifying Bears Ears National Monument in southeastern Utah and directing the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture to prepare a new transportation plan that "endeavors to maximize public access."

 

The proclamation also reduces the monument to approximately 121,096 acres divided between the Shash Jáa and Indian Creek units and establishes new management direction for the lands that remain within the monument.

 

For SEMA and ORBA, the significance of the proclamation is not limited to where the monument boundary is drawn. Of particular importance is how federal agencies are directed to manage roads, trails and public access within the remaining monument going forward.

 

"ORBA applauds President Trump's action today to give more Americans the opportunity to explore our nation's natural treasures by refining the use of Bears Ears National Monument," SEMA and ORBA said in a statement. "The natural beauty of this area is ideally suited for a new transportation plan that can maximize public access and create more ways for all people to utilize roads and trails for responsible motorized recreation."

 

The Antiquities Act and Why It Matters

 

The Antiquities Act of 1906 authorizes the president to establish national monuments on federally owned or controlled lands to protect historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, and other objects of historic or scientific interest. The law also requires that the land reserved for a monument be confined to the "smallest area compatible" with the proper care and management of the objects being protected.

 

SEMA has previously supported review of large monument designations and legislation requiring congressional and affected-state approval for future designations. SEMA has also warned that monument designations and the land-management plans that follow can affect existing roads and trails used for motorized recreation. When President Biden restored the larger Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante boundaries in 2021, SEMA opposed the action and stated that it would monitor the resulting management plans to protect existing off-road access.

 

In 2024, SEMA and ORBA jointly reviewed the proposed Bears Ears Resource Management Plan and encouraged the OHV community to participate, citing proposals that could close substantial areas to off-highway vehicle use and restrict motorized access.

 

Transportation Planning Takes Center Stage

 

While much of the public discussion will focus on the monument's revised boundaries, the transportation provisions may prove equally significant for the off-road community.

 

The proclamation directs the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service to prepare a new transportation plan that "endeavors to maximize public access" by designating roads and trails for motorized and non-motorized vehicle use and providing for appropriate maintenance.

 

Pending completion of that plan, the agencies may allow motorized and non-motorized use on roads and trails that were designated for such use immediately before the original 2016 Bears Ears proclamation. They may also maintain those roads and trails and designate additional roads and trails for motorized use, including routes that were not designated for motorized use before 2016.

 

The proclamation separately directs the agencies to consider the importance of maintaining and improving access for recreation and hunting when developing the monument's management plan. It also directs them to endeavor to authorize traditional land uses, including recreation and public access, to the greatest extent possible under applicable law and states that necessary restrictions must be narrowly tailored.

 

These provisions do not automatically reopen every road or trail, nor do they eliminate protections that apply to archaeological sites, Tribal cultural resources, wildlife habitat or other protected resources. The practical effect will depend on implementation through future BLM and Forest Service planning and route-designation decisions.

 

Why This News Matters to the SEMA Community

 

Federal transportation planning determines how the public experiences America's public lands. Decisions about road and trail designations affect recreation, hunting, camping, tourism, stewardship activities and access for surrounding communities.

 

For ORBA, SEMA and the broader off-road community, the proclamation represents a notable change in direction because it expressly identifies maximizing public access as an objective of transportation planning. It also recognizes the need to maintain recreation infrastructure and gives agencies flexibility to evaluate additional motorized route designations rather than limiting consideration to routes that were designated before the monument was created.

 

The proclamation also revises the monument advisory committee to include an outdoor recreation representative, specifically identifying commercial recreation providers or off-highway vehicle users among the eligible stakeholder groups. That provision creates an important opportunity for the motorized recreation community to participate in future management discussions.

 

Images courtesy of Shutterstock | Kabash and Ian Dewar Photography

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

President Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation on Monday, July 13, modifying Bears Ears National Monument in southeastern Utah and directing the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture to prepare a new transportation plan that "endeavors to maximize public access."

 

The proclamation also reduces the monument to approximately 121,096 acres divided between the Shash Jáa and Indian Creek units and establishes new management direction for the lands that remain within the monument.

 

For SEMA and ORBA, the significance of the proclamation is not limited to where the monument boundary is drawn. Of particular importance is how federal agencies are directed to manage roads, trails and public access within the remaining monument going forward.

 

"ORBA applauds President Trump's action today to give more Americans the opportunity to explore our nation's natural treasures by refining the use of Bears Ears National Monument," SEMA and ORBA said in a statement. "The natural beauty of this area is ideally suited for a new transportation plan that can maximize public access and create more ways for all people to utilize roads and trails for responsible motorized recreation."

 

The Antiquities Act and Why It Matters

 

The Antiquities Act of 1906 authorizes the president to establish national monuments on federally owned or controlled lands to protect historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, and other objects of historic or scientific interest. The law also requires that the land reserved for a monument be confined to the "smallest area compatible" with the proper care and management of the objects being protected.

 

SEMA has previously supported review of large monument designations and legislation requiring congressional and affected-state approval for future designations. SEMA has also warned that monument designations and the land-management plans that follow can affect existing roads and trails used for motorized recreation. When President Biden restored the larger Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante boundaries in 2021, SEMA opposed the action and stated that it would monitor the resulting management plans to protect existing off-road access.

 

In 2024, SEMA and ORBA jointly reviewed the proposed Bears Ears Resource Management Plan and encouraged the OHV community to participate, citing proposals that could close substantial areas to off-highway vehicle use and restrict motorized access.

 

Transportation Planning Takes Center Stage

 

While much of the public discussion will focus on the monument's revised boundaries, the transportation provisions may prove equally significant for the off-road community.

 

The proclamation directs the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service to prepare a new transportation plan that "endeavors to maximize public access" by designating roads and trails for motorized and non-motorized vehicle use and providing for appropriate maintenance.

 

Pending completion of that plan, the agencies may allow motorized and non-motorized use on roads and trails that were designated for such use immediately before the original 2016 Bears Ears proclamation. They may also maintain those roads and trails and designate additional roads and trails for motorized use, including routes that were not designated for motorized use before 2016.

 

The proclamation separately directs the agencies to consider the importance of maintaining and improving access for recreation and hunting when developing the monument's management plan. It also directs them to endeavor to authorize traditional land uses, including recreation and public access, to the greatest extent possible under applicable law and states that necessary restrictions must be narrowly tailored.

 

These provisions do not automatically reopen every road or trail, nor do they eliminate protections that apply to archaeological sites, Tribal cultural resources, wildlife habitat or other protected resources. The practical effect will depend on implementation through future BLM and Forest Service planning and route-designation decisions.

 

Why This News Matters to the SEMA Community

 

Federal transportation planning determines how the public experiences America's public lands. Decisions about road and trail designations affect recreation, hunting, camping, tourism, stewardship activities and access for surrounding communities.

 

For ORBA, SEMA and the broader off-road community, the proclamation represents a notable change in direction because it expressly identifies maximizing public access as an objective of transportation planning. It also recognizes the need to maintain recreation infrastructure and gives agencies flexibility to evaluate additional motorized route designations rather than limiting consideration to routes that were designated before the monument was created.

 

The proclamation also revises the monument advisory committee to include an outdoor recreation representative, specifically identifying commercial recreation providers or off-highway vehicle users among the eligible stakeholder groups. That provision creates an important opportunity for the motorized recreation community to participate in future management discussions.

 

Images courtesy of Shutterstock | Kabash and Ian Dewar Photography

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

Time is running out for automotive aftermarket companies to secure their place in one of the most spirited traditions of the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala. The Industry Cup Challenge, returning Friday, July 24, in Newport Beach, California, is approaching fast, and this is the final call to join.

 

The Industry Cup Challenge brings SEMA members together for an evening of high‑energy pinewood derby racing, industry camaraderie and meaningful charitable impact. Every sponsored car helps fuel the mission of SEMA Cares and its partner charities: the Austin Hatcher Foundation, Childhelp and Victory Junction.

 

A Beloved Tradition

 

The Industry Cup Challenge features five divisions: warehouse distributors, manufacturers, media, sales rep agencies and service providers. Each division will compete for the top spot in its category with the winning companies going on to represent that division in an all-out industry race and to be crowned the Industry Cup Challenge champion.

 

The winning company's name will be engraved on the Industry Cup Challenge trophy alongside past champions in a Stanley Cup-style tradition. The winner will hold the trophy for one year before returning it to defend their title at the next Gala.

 

Racing for a Cause 

 

 

SEMA Cares provides a platform for association members to make a collective, positive impact beyond the automotive community. Through the Industry Cup Challenge, SEMA Cares provides critical resources, care and life-changing experiences for children and families navigating pediatric cancer, abuse recovery and serious medical conditions.

 

Secure Your Spot on the Starting Line  

 

Ready to rally your team, connect with fellow industry members and make a difference that will have a lasting impact? Sponsor a pinewood derby car.

 

Sponsorships are $1,000 per company, and all races are officiated by SEMA Cares volunteers.

 

Can't attend the Gala in person? No problem. A SEMA Cares volunteer will race your company's pinewood derby car on your behalf, keeping you in the competition no matter where you are.

 

---

 

To purchase tickets for the 2026 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala, the annual celebration honoring SEMA Hall of Fame inductees and recognizing incoming and outgoing members of the SEMA Board of Directors, visit www.sema.org/gala.

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Gwen Hawver, CEO and founder of Vision Interface, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.

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

 

SEMA News: How long have you been in the industry?  

Gwen Hawver: We are celebrating 20 years of business! I have been involved in SEMA since 2011. We started with my husband racing our '99 F250 in the diesel drags for fun, then sharing marketing tips in the forums that were popular back then (before Facebook changed the rules and killed the forums). Our focus was on helping the aftermarket diesel industry grow online. We helped companies grow in their online sales using "cloud cover strategies."

 

SEMA: What does your job entail?  

GH: A little bit of everything. I enjoy strategizing with clients, working within their budget to help them get their message out and heard within their given industry. I also enjoy training people to understand what marketing entails, and how the rules have not changed for over 250 years, but the tools and methods are constantly changing.

 

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

GH: The biggest challenge was establishing trust. We had to demonstrate that we knew our stuff. It took time for us to show what we can do for our ideal clients, but one diesel aftermarket reseller took that chance, and we were able to take him from $2,000 a month to $6,000 a month in online sales.

 

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

GH: Persistence, honesty and determination. I was determined to make things work; I stayed on top of the current changes through the algorithm updates and changes designed to wipe out SEO tactics. I learned that marketing rules don't change even when the tools and way people search are constantly changing. When I do make mistakes, I am upfront and honest about them and work to fix them.   

 

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

GH: My main mentors were not in the automotive industry, but in marketing and business. We entered the automotive market starting with fun (diesel drags) and friends. My search for a mentor started out looking for up-to-date marketing training, so I could help clients that I helped get into business, stay in business. Back in 2009, I was watching Ryan Deiss and he was hosting the "Godfather of SEO" webinar. That is when we met John Limbocker, a serial entrepreneur who was offering an SEO training program, which we jumped on, and have been working with him ever since.

 

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

GH: Take the time to work on your business, not just in your business.

 

SEMA: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here? 

GH: Honestly, I had no intentions of working in the automotive industry until about 2010, when my husband and I started getting involved in racing for fun in the diesel drags with my '99 F250. That activity connected us with some cool people who were business owners––often mechanic shops and aftermarket parts resellers who were looking at expanding their reach in the diesel world. We had the skills and tools that could help. What keeps us here is the people. SEMA, especially the SBN, has been a great place to connect and be encouraged, working alongside other women in the automotive world.

 

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

GH: I love to get out and spend time with my horses. I originally got the F250 for hauling them around and still use it for that purpose. I am also a homeschool and 4H mom and am regularly found participating in various activities.

 

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 SEMA News Editors

 

 

Every business investment comes down to one question: What's the return? For automotive aftermarket companies, the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, offers a unique opportunity to discover new products, build strategic relationships and gain insights that can influence business decisions long after Show week ends.

 

Ready to register? Get started.

 

If you're trying to convince your boss to approve the trip, start by forwarding them this article.

 

The SEMA Show is where the automotive aftermarket gathers to see the latest innovations and preview what's coming down the line. Tens of thousands of industry professionals come together to explore all the opportunities that help drive growth throughout the year.

 

If your company is evaluating whether attending or sending employees to attend the 2026 SEMA Show is worth the investment, here are six reasons the answer is a resounding yes.

 

1. Discover the Products and Trends Shaping the Industry

 

The SEMA Show puts the latest automotive aftermarket innovations from across 14 dedicated categories across the SEMA Show campus:

 

• West Hall: Powersports/SxS & Lifestyle; Restyling and Car Care Accessories; Trucks, SUVs and Off-Road.
• North Hall: Restyling & Trucks; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology.
• Central Hall: Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace.
• South Hall Upper: Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment.
• South Hall Lower: The Global Tire Expo powered by TIA; Wheels & Accessories; and Collision & Tools.

 

Even better, the New Products Showcase––located in South Hall Lower––remains one of the most efficient ways to discover what's new across the industry. Exhibitors' recently introduced products are on display in one convenient location to help attendees identify new opportunities, compare solutions and build a more informed purchasing strategy.

 

For businesses that want to stay competitive, there's no substitute for walking the Show floor or the Showcase, holding new products in your hands and conducting face-to-face business with the real people behind the innovations.

 

2. Gain Practical Takeaways Through SEMA Show Education

 

The industry's challenges and solutions are evolving rapidly, and that's exactly why the SEMA Show education program exists: to help professionals stay ahead.

 

Educational sessions, with both free and paid options, provide insights on business growth, emerging technologies, leadership, sales, marketing, workforce development and more. Whether you're a business owner, manager or team member, SEMA Show education will let you return with ideas that can be applied to your company immediately. 

 

Also included is the SEMA Collision Repair Stage, featuring category experts and a round-the-clock schedule of sessions. 

 

3. Build Relationships That Create Opportunities

 

The SEMA Show has always been about real connections.

 

Over the course of four days, attendees network with manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, media members, builders and industry leaders from around the world. From formal receptions to spontaneous conversations in a Show booth, the relationships formed during Show week often lead to new partnerships, business opportunities and long-term professional growth.

 

4. Experience the Industry's Biggest Attractions and Activations

 

The 2026 SEMA Show features some of the most recognizable experiences in the automotive aftermarket, including:

• Show-stopping builds and vehicles
• SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish
• SEMA Industry Honors
• SEMA Kickoff Breakfast
• FutureTech Studio
• New Products Showcase
• Toyo Tires Treadpass
• SEMA Live
• Larry Chen's official SEMA Show artwork and displays
• Art Walk
• PRO Cup Challenge
• Global Tire Expo-Powered by TIA
• More activations announced soon!

 

These attractions offer attendees an up-close look at industry innovation, craftsmanship and future trends while creating valuable opportunities for learning and action-spurring inspiration.

 

5. Attend Exclusive Events That Bring the Industry Together

 

Beyond the Show floor, attendees can participate in marquee events that celebrate and strengthen the automotive aftermarket community.

 

Confirmed events this year include the traditional SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast to open Show week, the SEMA Industry Honors awards ceremony at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and the legendary SEMA Cruise featuring a parade of the world's most unique and innovative vehicles as they roll out of the SEMA Show floor.

 

The fan-favorite SEMA Fest also returns in 2026. Showgoers can close out their Show week with a celebration of music, motorsports and car culture on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus (tickets required for purchase).

 

6. Be Part of the Industry's Biggest Week of the Year

 

Industry insiders know that the SEMA Show is way bigger than the average trade show––for four days, SEMA is the center of the automotive aftermarket universe.

 

From the energy of the Show floor to dozens of activations and events, there are countless opportunities to learn, connect and see firsthand where the industry is headed.

 

The conversations, product discoveries and business relationships developed during Show week create value that lasts long after attendees return home.

 

Ready to Make Your Case?

Whether you're a business owner evaluating the investment or an employee seeking approval to attend, the 2026 SEMA Show offers opportunities that can help drive growth, spark new ideas and strengthen industry relationships. Share this article with your company's decision-makers and start planning your trip to Las Vegas. 

 

Opportunities to discover new products, build relationships and gain industry insights happen every day. Opportunities to experience the entire automotive aftermarket in one place happen only once a year.

 

Need to learn more? Browse the SEMA Show website.

 

Ready to register? Get started.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com.

 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

 

From SEMA Market Research

 

Even with the conflict in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz not entirely settled, the markets positively reacted to the reopening of shipping routes. Crude oil prices dropped to roughly $70 per barrel after hitting a peak of more than $100 in April and May. The $70 price point nearly brings the cost of crude down to the pre-conflict $65 range. Hundreds of ships have passed through the Strait since the cease-fire agreement: While it will take time to get supply chains stocked, the resumption of the supply of oil and other goods should ease price and supply pressure. 

 

In May, the Consumer Price Index rose to 4.2%, largely driven by a 23.5% increase in energy costs, most notably a 40.5% surge in gas prices, while other categories remained constant. With crude oil dropping, gas prices are following suit, with the national average for regular gasoline down nearly $.60 per gallon from a month ago. Gas prices are one of the most visible signs of inflation, so falling prices ease the minds of consumers.  

 

With inflation somewhat elevated, the Fed kept the federal funds rate unchanged at 3.50%-3.75% in June 2026, as expected. The current rate is significantly lower than it was in 2025, which may enable consumers to refinance auto loans at lower rates. Fed governors seem to be split on whether there should be additional cuts or possible rate hikes later in the year. So far, these interest rates have not shown a negative impact on employment. 

 

The unemployment rate held steady in May at 4.3%, while the economy gained 172,000 jobs. The employment market has stayed very stable with an unemployment rate between 4.3%-4.5% over the last year. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia Survey of Professional Forecasters predicts the unemployment rate to remain steady with an average between 4.4%-4.5% over the next few quarters. The stable job market should keep consumers confident in their ability to spend through the remainder of the year. 

 

The economy continues to grow, and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that real GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.1% in Q1 2026. This growth is significantly higher than the 0.5% rate reported in Q4 2025. Consumers are better off, with personal income increasing $181.6 billion (0.7% at a monthly rate) in May. Spending was up by 0.7% with an added $156.1 billion pumped into the economy. Motor vehicle and parts spending was up by $5.4 billion in May. Total consumer spending reached $22 trillion in May and has shown no signs of slowing down. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia Survey of Professional Forecasters predicts real GDP to expand 2.2% in 2026. 

 

While there continues to be uncertainty globally, key indicators of the U.S. economy such as employment, income and spending remain strong. As shipping returns to normal and supply chains catch up, the expectation is that it will relieve some pricing pressures across the market. As gas prices decline and job security remains strong, consumers are likely to stay confident in their spending, continuing to support GDP growth and activity in our market. 

 

The new "2026 SEMA Market Report" was just released and shows that the U.S. specialty-equipment industry remained strong through 2025.  The overall accessory and performance parts market grew about 1% to a new high of $52.92 billion in retail sales. While passenger cars continue to be solid targets for accessorizing, light trucks have become the major sector within automotive and the aftermarket. Pickup modifications account for 30% of the market, as they are such a great platform for off-road, utility and performance upgrades.   

 

For the latest on the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market, download the just released "2026 SEMA Market Report." SEMA members can download the report for free at www.sema.org/research 

 

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