By SEMA News Editors

PRI Returns as Hoosier 500 Title Sponsor, Broadcast Partner

Organizers of the PRI Hoosier 500 have released the preliminary event schedule for the 2026 PRI Hoosier 500.

Race day for the annual sim race will be December 13, 2026, with PRI returning as the official title sponsor and broadcast partner for the race.

Opening Day for PRI Hoosier 500 practice will be November 30, with additional official practice days assigned to December 1-3. Fast Friday, the final day of practice prior to qualifications, is scheduled for December 4.

Qualifications will be held across two days as is standard for the event. Day one qualifications on December 5, will feature the first chance for competitors to make time trial attempts, and the driver with the fastest four-lap average at the end of the day will earn the 2026 PRI Hoosier 500 Pole Award.

Day two qualifications--Bump Day--are scheduled for December 6, which will be utilized to finalize the field of 33 racers who will take the grid on race day. The fastest 33 qualifiers make the field, and all other drivers are sent home.

December 7 will feature the final full official practice session prior to race weekend, while Media Day has been scheduled for December 8.

Race weekend begins on December 12, with final PRI Hoosier 500 practice and additional support events, building towards race day on December 13.

Dates are tentative and subject to change. Official session times will be confirmed later this year, prior to the registration period's opening. Further information about the 2026 event will be announced at a later date.

For more information, visit thehoosier500.com.

Scott Dixon, Giampaolo Dallara Voted Into IMS Hall of Fame

Two IndyCar icons are being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is pleased to announce Scott Dixon and Giampaolo Dallara as the two inductees for the Class of 2026. 

They will be formally celebrated at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner on Thursday, May 21 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in downtown Indianapolis. 

Dixon and Dallara were chosen by a national panel of more than 150 journalists, drivers, industry leaders, historians and other members of the Hall of Fame. This was the first appearance on the ballot for them both. 

"Scott Dixon and Giampaolo Dallara are at the very top of their respective fields. Their consistency, skill and unwavering determination have led to success not only at Indianapolis Motor Speedway but in every aspect of their careers," IMS Museum President Michael Good said. "The Museum is honored to be the steward of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, and we're thrilled to add these two deserving inductees." 

Scott Dixon, driver of the No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, is a six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES Champion and winner of the 2008 Indianapolis 500. He's secured five pole positions for "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," second to Rick Mears' record six. The New Zealand native returns to Chip Ganassi Racing for his 25th season in 2026--the longest tenure for a driver in team history. Dixon's six championships and 59 career wins are both second in series history behind the legendary A.J. Foyt. Known for his consistency, Dixon finished third in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship in 2025 and won a race for a record 21st consecutive season. He is the first active full-time driver to be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame.   

"It is a huge honor to be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. It's such a historic venue in motorsports and means so much to me, having raced here for so many years now. Honestly, it feels a little surreal as I'm still focused on winning here in May. It's the competition that drives me, even in year 25 with Chip Ganassi Racing. The Indianapolis 500 is the biggest sporting event in the world, and another win here would be incredible, so that's the goal for 2026," Dixon said.  

Giampaolo Dallara founded "Dallara Automobili da Competizione" in 1972 in his hometown in Italy, building cars for F1 and F3. He began his career as an engineer at Ferrari, followed by key roles at Maserati, Lamborghini and Williams De Tomaso. He used that experience to launch his company, which for more than 50 years has developed itself in the business of designing, manufacturing and supporting some of the world's most competitive racecars with particular focus on both safety and performance. The company started producing Indy cars in 1997 and has been the sole chassis supplier since 2008. In 2012, Dallara expanded its U.S. operations by opening the Dallara Experience Hub in Speedway, Indiana, where the company produces and assembles chassis for a variety of racing series.

"Being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame is truly an honor. The Indianapolis 500 has inspired me since the very beginning of my career, and our journey in the United States has been built on passion, innovation and extraordinary people," Dallara said. "I am grateful to the teams, drivers and partners who have trusted our work for so many years. This recognition belongs to all of them as much as it does to me."

For more information, visit imsmuseum.org/hall-of-fame.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

For more information and to get involved in race track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. 

For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

For more information and to get involved in race track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. 

For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

For more information and to get involved in race track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. 

For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Compact and Electric: The All-New Hyundai Ioniq 3

The fully electric Hyundai Concept Three celebrated its world premiere at IAA 2025. It is the first compact electric car concept under Hyundai's Ioniq sub-brand and is intended to provide a glimpse into the European EV compact segment. The production model, named Hyundai Ioniq 3, will be positioned between the equally new Inster and the comparably sized but more practical Kona Electric starting in 2026, possibly even replacing the latter in the long term. However, this is speculation.

Like most of the group's electric cars, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 will be based on the extremely flexible E-GMP architecture. It is, therefore, very likely that, like its sister model, the Kia EV3, it will have a 110-kW (150hp) electric motor on the front axle.

It is also conceivable that there will be two battery sizes to choose from. In the case of the EV3, the 58.3-kWh battery is said to enable a range of 271 miles, while the 81.4-kWh variant is said to enable a range of 376 miles. Thanks to its more aerodynamic shape, however, the Ioniq 3 could squeeze a few extra miles out of the battery packs. DC charging is possible on its sister model at up to 101 or 128 kW, with the preconditioned battery expected to go from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes.

The question of a sporty top-of-the-range model is interesting, as Kia recently unveiled the 215 kW (292 hp) EV3 GT. An equivalent Hyundai Ioniq 3 N is not unrealistic, especially since the discontinuation of the i30 N has left a gap in the compact sports car segment. It could also compete with the VW ID.3 GTX.

Images of a still-camouflaged prototype paint a fairly clear picture of what the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is likely to look like as a production model. Similarities with the Hyundai Veloster are hard to ignore. This impression is created in particular by the similarly sloping roof, contrasted by a window line that rises toward the rear.

As is typical for electric cars, the wheelbase is relatively long while the overhangs are kept short. At the front we see split headlights, which we also know from the facelifted Ioniq 6. The rear spoiler, which also includes a rearview camera, is striking. One more note on the expected dimensions of the production model: the approximately 4.3m-long Concept Three is likely to provide another indication.

Thinner Camouflage: The Next-Generation Hyundai Bayon

Despite extreme winter temperatures, a prototype of the next-generation Hyundai Bayon took off the thick winter clothing it wore last week and lets us get a more detailed look at its new shape.

Hyundai is accelerating its global SUV lineup with the next-generation Hyundai Bayon, codenamed BC4. Thanks to these new spy shots, we can now position the new Bayon as a potential game changer in the subcompact SUV segment, with fresh styling, more space than its predecessor and equipment and powertrain options that edge into territory occupied by the current Hyundai Kona.

Unlike the outgoing Bayon, which has often been described as a hatchback-based crossover, the BC4 generation appears to have grown in size and presence. The spy shots indicate a boxier silhouette and a more conventional SUV stance, moving beyond its earlier design roots.

While exact dimensions for the BC4 are not yet confirmed, industry insiders suggest Hyundai has given the new Bayon a longer wheelbase and broader track to improve interior space, cargo capacity and overall road presence. This positions it as a more mature SUV choice and could make it more competitive against rivals that offer vehicles with a similar footprint.

Early reports also hint at a significant interior overhaul, with a fully digital instrument cluster, larger touchscreen display and an upgraded suite of safety technology. These enhancements would not only modernize the Bayon but also align it with current segment leaders in features and comfort.

One of the most intriguing implications of the next-gen Bayon's evolution is its potential impact on Hyundai Kona sales. Traditionally, the Kona sits above the Bayon in the lineup, offering more powertrain options including full EV variants in some markets. However, with the Bayon BC4 becoming larger, better equipped and available with a hybrid powertrain and sportier N Line trim, it may attract buyers who might otherwise have stepped up to the Kona, especially those prioritizing efficiency, price and everyday usability.

A larger, more refined Bayon could be especially appealing in markets where pricing sensitivity is high and hybrid efficiency is a strong selling point. If Hyundai positions the BC4 competitively, it could shrink the Kona's sweet spot, particularly for consumers who do not need the full performance or EV capabilities of the Kona lineup.

Hyundai has not formally confirmed specifications or launch dates for the next-generation Bayon, but automotive news outlets expect a global debut in 2026, with production versions appearing first in Europe and South Korea before rolling out to other markets. Given Hyundai's aggressive electrification and SUV expansion plans, the BC4 Bayon may play a key role in its strategy to capture more of the compact SUV segment worldwide.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Daisy Chavik, co-owner of Hot Rod Chavik USA, as its newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Daisy Chavik: My first job in the industry was 18 years ago when I met my husband Stanley Chavik--his life is cars, engineering, coach building and fabrication. I had no idea about cars and since then my life has been one crazy automotive industry journey. So, if you asked me, before I met my husband, I was a hair salon owner and certified hairstylist.

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

DC: The most challenging part is keeping balance--financially, spiritually, customers versus Hot Rod Chavik USA, project flow--that is a big part of my job. Another is being involved in projects as a design advisor. I'm the only woman in our shop and clients are 90% male, so it is sometimes difficult to be seen and sell ideas. But you know, small dogs bark loudly and over the years, I have been able to find my spot and now I’m part of design/materials and all aesthetic decisions.

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

DC: I use a lot of my previous business experience, where I learned a lot about client relationships, professionalism, quality of work, character, products, relationships and business versus community support.

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

DC: I'm short but strong-minded, which could be difficult for some male representatives in the automotive industry, but times have changed and I see lots of changes.

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

DC: I do not have a specific one but industry legends such as Ed Iskenderian and Gene Winfield, or my latest impression was from the Marconi Museum--four generations is very amazing.

Also, people who are involved and support the automotive industry, museums, shows and organizations.

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

DC: Be patient, work hard, be constant and trust God. At first, I was too young to understand, then I slowly found the way and am now trying to not slip from that way.

SN: What keeps in the automotive industry?  

DC: My husband, my shop and my purpose. Thanks to that I'm able to support the industry.

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

DC: Stanley Chavik, my amazing husband, business partner, friend and supporter (even with my craziest ideas), our awesome son and God.

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

Kwik Performance

Power Steering and AC Compressor Bracket Kits for Gen 5 LT Truck Engines

Kwik Performance has released two new bracket kits designed to simplify the addition of hydraulic power steering and a Sanden-style air-conditioning compressor to GM Gen 5 LT truck engines ('14–'19 L83 and L86), a common challenge for builders performing engine swaps. The new bracket system (PN K10742) mounts a type-two power-steering pump and a Sanden Mini fixed-displacement compressor, while retaining most of the factory front-drive system, making the upgrade both practical and cost-effective, the manufacturer says.

kwikperf.com

Torklift

Stainless Steel X6096S ExoHitch for '26 Subaru Outback

Torklift has released its new X6096S EcoHitch Stainless Steel Trailer Hitch designed specifically for the '26 Subaru Outback. The vehicle-specific design integrates cleanly with the factory rear bumper and is engineered for a no-drill installation. The stainless-steel, 2-in. receiver offers long-term corrosion resistance and features a concealed cross tube design for a clean, factory appearance. The hitch is rated for towing up to 3,500 lbs. with 525 lbs. tongue weight.

torkliftcentral.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By Ashley Reyes

One of the most important decisions a hot-rod builder can make is choosing the right customer, as this choice directly impacts workflow, budgets, shop morale and long-term reputation.

To help builders navigate the decision-making process, the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will host a virtual General Membership Meeting & Panel Discussion on Thursday, February 19 at 10:00 a.m. PT focused on how experienced builders evaluate customers, select projects and set expectations for successful builds.

Moderated by Amy Fitzgerald, owner of Cool Hand Customs, the event will feature a panel of respected industry builders: Kellie Oeste, owner of V8 Speed & Resto Shop; Josh Sanders, owner of Sanders Street Rods; and Tim Strange, owner of Strange Motion Rod & Custom. 

Panelists will share real-world insight into customer fit, the build process, budgeting and expectation setting, what defines a successful customer relationship and what ultimately makes a builder say yes to a project.

If you're looking to strengthen your customer selection process, avoid costly missteps and learn how seasoned builders approach project decisions, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Register today.

By Ashley Reyes

Are you employed by a SEMA member company and still paying off student loans? If so, you're invited to apply to receive up to $2,000 towards your student loan balance through the 2026 SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Applications are open now and run through Friday, April 3 at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness.  

What is the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program? 

The Loan Forgiveness Program is a SEMA member benefit that issues financial awards of $2,000 to help employees of member companies pay off their student loans from a college, university or career technical/trade school. 

What are the eligibility requirements? 

• Currently employed by a SEMA-member business. 
• Have at least $2,000 in outstanding student loan debt. 
• Possess a degree or certificate from a college, university or career technical/trade school in the United States or Canada. 
• Demonstrate a passion for the automotive industry.  

What are the benefits of being selected? 

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program helps reduce your student loan balance, enabling you to save money out-of-pocket, free income for other financial priorities and focus more on your career.  

How to Apply 

Review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness before the Friday, April 3 deadline. Use program key "SEMA" to access the application. If you know someone who may qualify, SEMA encourages you to share this opportunity with them. 

By Ashley Reyes

Are you employed by a SEMA member company and still paying off student loans? If so, you're invited to apply to receive up to $2,000 towards your student loan balance through the 2026 SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Applications are open now and run through Friday, April 3 at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness.  

What is the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program? 

The Loan Forgiveness Program is a SEMA member benefit that issues financial awards of $2,000 to help employees of member companies pay off their student loans from a college, university or career technical/trade school. 

What are the eligibility requirements? 

• Currently employed by a SEMA-member business. 
• Have at least $2,000 in outstanding student loan debt. 
• Possess a degree or certificate from a college, university or career technical/trade school in the United States or Canada. 
• Demonstrate a passion for the automotive industry.  

What are the benefits of being selected? 

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program helps reduce your student loan balance, enabling you to save money out-of-pocket, free income for other financial priorities and focus more on your career.  

How to Apply 

Review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness before the Friday, April 3 deadline. Use program key "SEMA" to access the application. If you know someone who may qualify, SEMA encourages you to share this opportunity with them.