By SEMA News Editors

Motorsports Industry Powers $69.2 Billion U.S. Economic Engine, Supports More Than 318,000 Jobs, New PRI Study Finds

PRI has released a landmark study that underscores the motorsports industry's pivotal role as a key contributor to the United States economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, generating billions in economic activity and delivering substantial tax revenue.

PRI, the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States, commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based on 2025 United States economy data. The study encompasses automobile, truck, motorcycle and UTV/side-by-side racing activity.

Traditionally, economic impact reports about racing are focused on the impact of a single event--major race weekend events for a specific local and state economy. These are studies that examine the impact of the tourism dollars that come into the economy as a result of that single event. PRI's report is different because it determines the economic impact of the businesses that support the existence of racing in the first place.

PRI's research represents the most comprehensive assessment of motorsports' economic footprint ever undertaken to quantify the scale and significance of the business of racing to the U.S. economy. It evaluates the economic contributions from multiple racing businesses, including tracks and promoters, parts manufacturers, distributors, retailers, service providers and incorporated race teams.

Key findings from the study include:

• The industry contributes more than $69.2 billion in annual economic impact to the American economy.
• Nationwide, the motorsports industry supports more than 318,000 American jobs.
• American workers in the motorsports industry earn more than $22.1 billion worth of wages and benefits.
• The industry generates more than $8.2 billion in tax revenue, including $5 billion in federal taxes and $3.2 billion in state and local taxes.

This economic impact study represents an important bookend to PRI's 2024 Racing Market Report, a consumer trends analysis which found that consumers spent $8 billion on track-use only parts for motorsports in 2023.

As part of this study, PRI also launched an interactive economic impact map, enabling users to explore motorsports-related data by state and county--highlighting the industry's reach and relevance in communities of all sizes across the country. The website also offers downloadable infographics that can be shared with policy makers and other businesses to show the impact motorsports has on individual states and communities.

The PRI Economic Impact Study provides valuable data about the economic footprint of the motorsports industry in the United States. PRI undertook this effort to provide policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public with credible, data-driven insights into racing's role as a major driver of economic activity, employment and tax revenue. The study not only affirms the industry's significance but also serves as a foundational resource to inform advocacy, investment and long-term planning.

"Racing holds a special place in American life, and this milestone report highlights the broad scope of the motorsports industry as an economic driver at the local, state and federal levels," said PRI President Michael Good. "Using these results as a foundation, PRI will continue to seek ways to foster the motorsports industry, from racetracks to manufacturers, and from small businesses to major national employers, to ensure motorsports continues to touch every part of the country and bring together people from all walks of life for competition and community. We're proud to serve as the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States and will continue delivering the data needed to demonstrate the industry's economic strength and value."

In 2023, a study commissioned by SEMA found that the automotive aftermarket industry generates an economic impact of $337 billion annually to the American economy. While the motorsports study found small areas of overlap in the parts, repair and facilities areas, the motorsports study results are a complement to the SEMA report. PRI was acquired by SEMA in 2012 to connect, protect and advocate for the motorsports industry.

Report Methodology

The PRI Economic Impact Study estimates the economic contributions made by the motorsports industry, which includes manufacturers, distributors and retailers of automotive racing parts plus racetracks, race promoters and professional race teams. Data are for the United States economy in 2025. John Dunham & Associates (JDA) conducted this research, which was funded by PRI. This work used standard econometric models first developed by the U.S. Forest Service, and now maintained by IMPLAN Inc. Data came from PRI, Data Axle and other government sources.

By SEMA News Editors

Motorsports Industry Powers $69.2 Billion U.S. Economic Engine, Supports More Than 318,000 Jobs, New PRI Study Finds

PRI has released a landmark study that underscores the motorsports industry's pivotal role as a key contributor to the United States economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, generating billions in economic activity and delivering substantial tax revenue.

PRI, the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States, commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based on 2025 United States economy data. The study encompasses automobile, truck, motorcycle and UTV/side-by-side racing activity.

Traditionally, economic impact reports about racing are focused on the impact of a single event--major race weekend events for a specific local and state economy. These are studies that examine the impact of the tourism dollars that come into the economy as a result of that single event. PRI's report is different because it determines the economic impact of the businesses that support the existence of racing in the first place.

PRI's research represents the most comprehensive assessment of motorsports' economic footprint ever undertaken to quantify the scale and significance of the business of racing to the U.S. economy. It evaluates the economic contributions from multiple racing businesses, including tracks and promoters, parts manufacturers, distributors, retailers, service providers and incorporated race teams.

Key findings from the study include:

• The industry contributes more than $69.2 billion in annual economic impact to the American economy.
• Nationwide, the motorsports industry supports more than 318,000 American jobs.
• American workers in the motorsports industry earn more than $22.1 billion worth of wages and benefits.
• The industry generates more than $8.2 billion in tax revenue, including $5 billion in federal taxes and $3.2 billion in state and local taxes.

This economic impact study represents an important bookend to PRI's 2024 Racing Market Report, a consumer trends analysis which found that consumers spent $8 billion on track-use only parts for motorsports in 2023.

As part of this study, PRI also launched an interactive economic impact map, enabling users to explore motorsports-related data by state and county--highlighting the industry's reach and relevance in communities of all sizes across the country. The website also offers downloadable infographics that can be shared with policy makers and other businesses to show the impact motorsports has on individual states and communities.

The PRI Economic Impact Study provides valuable data about the economic footprint of the motorsports industry in the United States. PRI undertook this effort to provide policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public with credible, data-driven insights into racing's role as a major driver of economic activity, employment and tax revenue. The study not only affirms the industry's significance but also serves as a foundational resource to inform advocacy, investment and long-term planning.

"Racing holds a special place in American life, and this milestone report highlights the broad scope of the motorsports industry as an economic driver at the local, state and federal levels," said PRI President Michael Good. "Using these results as a foundation, PRI will continue to seek ways to foster the motorsports industry, from racetracks to manufacturers, and from small businesses to major national employers, to ensure motorsports continues to touch every part of the country and bring together people from all walks of life for competition and community. We're proud to serve as the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States and will continue delivering the data needed to demonstrate the industry's economic strength and value."

In 2023, a study commissioned by SEMA found that the automotive aftermarket industry generates an economic impact of $337 billion annually to the American economy. While the motorsports study found small areas of overlap in the parts, repair and facilities areas, the motorsports study results are a complement to the SEMA report. PRI was acquired by SEMA in 2012 to connect, protect and advocate for the motorsports industry.

Report Methodology

The PRI Economic Impact Study estimates the economic contributions made by the motorsports industry, which includes manufacturers, distributors and retailers of automotive racing parts plus racetracks, race promoters and professional race teams. Data are for the United States economy in 2025. John Dunham & Associates (JDA) conducted this research, which was funded by PRI. This work used standard econometric models first developed by the U.S. Forest Service, and now maintained by IMPLAN Inc. Data came from PRI, Data Axle and other government sources.

By Ashley Reyes

The upcoming SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, will provide visitors with the chance to attend high-powered educational seminars led by top manufacturers in the hot-rod market.

Seven seminars will take place throughout Friday, July 11, and Saturday, July 12, enabling hot-rod builders, professionals and enthusiasts to hear directly from manufacturers about product installation, operation and system best practices when building a hot rod.

The seminars are free to Goodguys Summit Racing attendees and registration is not required. The sessions are located in the Celeste Center at the Ohio Expo Center.  

See the full schedule below (all times EDT):

Friday, July 11

• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Griots "Clean and Shine! The Right Products to Make a Difference"
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: Vintage Air "The Basics of Hot-Rod and Musclecar Air Conditioning"
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: American Autowire "Choosing the Best Wiring System for Your Project"

Saturday, July 12

• 10:15 a.m.–11:00 a.m.: Wilwood Brakes "Brake System Basics"
• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: "An Introduction to Digital Gauge Systems"
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: Advanced Plating "Improving Your Vehicle with Chrome and More"
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Goodguys "Turnkey vs. Custom Build"

Learn more about HRIA Education Days at sema.org/hria-education-days.

By SEMA News Editors

Honda Enters Pikes Peak International Hill Climb With First-Ever Hydrogen Entry

Honda is entering the Honda CR-V e:FCEV as the first-ever hydrogen-powered vehicle to compete at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb later this month.

Prepped for competition by engineers at Honda of America Race Team (HART), Honda R&D Japan and Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US), the CR-V e:FCEV will take on the 156-turn, 12.42-mile mountain course on June 22 with former Pikes Peak class-winner and two-time Formula DRIFT champion Dai Yoshihara behind the wheel.

The production 2025 CR‑V e:FCEV will compete in the "exhibition class" without modifications to its zero-emissions powertrain, which includes the second-generation Honda fuel cell system produced at Fuel Cell System Manufacturing, LLC (FCSM) in Michigan, a front-mounted single-motor, 17.7 kWh battery pack, and two high-pressure hydrogen tanks.

The CR‑V e:FCEV is hand-built at the Honda Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio, and is the only fuel cell electric passenger vehicle made in America, and the first to pair hydrogen fuel cell with plug-in hybrid technology. For competition, the only modifications from stock are a 1-inch lowered suspension, racing brake pads, light weight 18-inch wheels and 265/45R18 Yokohama Advan A052 tires. HART also equipped the CR‑V e:FCEV with a racing seat and safety cage, custom-fabricated into the vehicle by Honda engineers at HART and PMC.

For more information, visit hondaracing-us.com.

Formula DRIFT Education Program Partner, Acceler8, Secures State Grant

Acceler8, the independent non-profit automotive education program founded by law enforcement veterans to help at-risk kids, was accepted by the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) to receive funds through the California Community Reinvestment Grants (CalCRG) program. 

The announcement will enable Acceler8 to expand its structured programs, providing underserved youth with hands-on automotive education, mentorship and career pathways. In addition, the funds will also go towards a new Acceler8 facility set to open in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles later this summer.

As a direct result of the funding, Acceler8 aims to assist up to 420 youth over three years by offering two 16-week courses per year. Each course will enroll 20-30 students and focus on preparing participants for ASE Certification in basic mechanics through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on automotive training. 

Students will learn techniques ranging from basic tune-ups, tire rotations and oil changes to advanced skills, such as computer diagnostics and installing or repairing critical systems, including engines and transmissions. Guest speakers, including automotive professionals and business owners, will engage with students to inspire them toward automotive careers, with the hope of leading to further education and training.

Upon completion, students will be introduced to potential job placements, vocational training and apprenticeships in the automotive industry.

"We're honored and delighted to receive support from the State of California for our mission to provide youth with career opportunities in the automotive industry. Through this investment, our students will undoubtedly recognize the state stands firmly behind them on their journey to adulthood and gainful employment," said Charles Woodruff, co-founder and CEO at Acceler8 Education Program. 

As a foundational partner in the Formula DRIFT Driven Experience, Acceler8 has introduced more than 3,000 youth from across the country to motorsports over four years. The aim has always been to provide young people with a window into the exciting possibilities of a career in the automotive sector with the ongoing help and support of the FD organizing body, teams and drivers, who have donated their time and expertise to inspire the kids.

For more information, visit acceler8education.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Mitchell Clarke of Timbren Industries as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Clarke in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Mitchell Clarke: Never take things personally in business. Being able to keep a level head helps with quick decision-making, and being able to regroup and overcome obstacles. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

MC: All the interesting designs and products that keep emerging. Not a week goes by that I don't see a new trailer design or new accessory that catches my eye. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

MC: Mostly doing chores! Mowing the lawn, tidying the house, doing laundry, etc. Then maybe a movie once all that is done. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

MC: I review my notes and talking points before attending. I go in with a clear objective on what I want to accomplish in that meeting. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

MC: The chairman of Toyota, Akio Toyoda. Being able to chat with him about "The Toyota Way" and the "Toyota Production System" business philosophies would be very interesting. Also, the thought process of being the early leaders in the hybrid-vehicle industry, which has grown so much since its introduction. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Garage Detroit, in collaboration with Ford Motor Company, is thrilled to offer an exclusive first look at the all-new '25 Ford Expedition and '25 Lincoln Navigator! Be among the first to access these next-generation vehicles during this special measuring session. Don't miss this unique opportunity to get ahead in your product development!

✓ 3D Scan and Measure

✓ Develop Products

✓ Test-Fit Prototypes

✓ Exclusive Close-Up Experience

'25 Ford and '25 Lincoln Navigator Measuring Session
June 24 – June 25, 2025
SEMA Garage Detroit
14655 Jib St.,
Plymouth, MI 48170
Click here to RSVP!

For more information, contact productdevelopment@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Editor's Note: An earlier version of this article stated the 2025 SEMA Market Report would be ready on June 25. The report is now available for download at sites.sema.org/market-research, and will be officially announced in SEMA News on Tuesday, July 1.

The 2025 SEMA Market Report--the specialty-equipment industry's most comprehensive market intelligence--is about to unlock on Monday, June 30. Mark your calendars now to take advantage of your chance to access exclusive industry-defining data.

What's Inside the 2025 SEMA Market Report:

• 2024 Consumer Spending Analysis
• Industry Size and Segment Breakdown
• Vehicle Modification Patterns: What consumers are buying
• Regional Market Performance
• Category Growth Indicators: Which segments are accelerating

Go Deeper During Our Live Virtual Event on July 10

Scheduled for Thursday, July 10, at 1:00 p.m. EDT/10:00 a.m. PDT, SEMA's market research team will host a LIVE webinar to help you unlock the "why" behind the numbers and provide the opportunity for you to ask your most pressing questions.

What You'll Get:

• Live Expert Analysis: Industry specialists break down key findings
• Q&A Session: Direct access to report authors and market analysts
• Competitive Intelligence: Insights your non-member competitors won't access

Click here for more information or to register for the webinar.

By SEMA News Editors

The automotive aftermarket is coming together in a big way for the 2025 SEMA Show, with 4.6 million sq. ft. of exhibit space booked by thousands of leading brands for the industry's most important gathering of the year. Taking over the entire Las Vegas Convention Center campus November 4-7, 2025, the Show underscores the strong commitment of manufacturers, service providers and innovators eager to connect, showcase their latest products and shape the future of the industry.

"While the broader market is navigating uncertainty, the SEMA Show is a clear signal of strength, innovation and opportunity across the automotive aftermarket industry," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "We're delivering a high-energy event that reflects where the industry is headed--driven by product, passion and purpose."

With more than 2,000 exhibitors, the SEMA Show continues to be the place where business gets done. From groundbreaking technology and next-generation tools and products to expert-led education and face-to-face networking, the Show offers everything automotive aftermarket professionals need to stay competitive in today's fast-changing landscape. It's where relationships are built, products are evaluated, strategies are sharpened and opportunities come to life.

Thousands of iconic brands will participate in the 2025 SEMA Show, including eBay Motors, Holley Performance Brands, Hoonigan, Hunter Engineering, Optima, Rockford Fosgate, Snap-on, SPARQ, WeatherTech and many others.

"SEMA is where innovation meets influence, and for SPARQ, we're honored to be a part of the conversation with exciting plans to introduce new products to SPARQ's ecosystem," said SPARQ Co-founder Daniel Nieh. "As a startup pushing the boundaries of automotive technology, exhibiting at SEMA allows us to connect directly with the community that's shaping the future of the industry--builders, technicians, brands and enthusiasts alike. It's not just about showcasing what SPARQ can do; it's about listening, collaborating and helping redefine what's possible."

Highlighting the 2025 SEMA Show will be participation from a strong lineup of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), including Ford Performance, Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC), MOPAR/Stellantis, Nissan and Toyota.

"SEMA is a great platform for Toyota to share our passion for performance and serves as a test bed for our creative and innovative ideas," said Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota marketing. "We are always blown away with how this community engages with our brand and showcases our vehicles to push the boundaries of what's possible in the automotive industry."

Innovation across the industry is surging, fueled by a wave of new product launches debuting at the Show. The New Products Showcase will highlight more than 2,000 cutting-edge entries spanning 15 product categories. The SEMA FutureTech Studio will return as another innovation center, showcasing new technologies shaping the marketplace. From internal combustion engines to electric vehicles, hydrogen, hybrids and synthetic fuels, a wide range of propulsion technologies is powering one of the most dynamic product development cycles the industry has ever seen.

"SEMA represents the heart of the automotive aftermarket industry which aligns perfectly with our mission at Revv," said Adi Bathla, CEO and co-founder of Revv. "SEMA continues to be the epicenter of automotive innovation, and we're constantly pushing boundaries." 

The SEMA Show is maxing out the campus with a diverse and strategic brand mix and exceptional category breadth that reflects the full scope of the industry. The addition of the new International Pavilion reinforces the SEMA Show's role as a hub for the global automotive marketplace.

Long considered a bucket list item for many car lovers, the Show will open its doors to automotive enthusiasts on Friday, November 7, for "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public," giving car culture fans a special opportunity to peek behind the curtain of the automotive aftermarket. It's a powerful way to connect the passion of the enthusiast community with the business of innovation.

"The SEMA Show is gaining momentum heading into November, with continued growth and strong industry support," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "From special events to education to product reveals, we're delivering a fully immersive experience that celebrates where the industry is now and where it's going next."

Attendees are encouraged to register early to maximize their ROI; registration is only $50 for qualified attendees who register by June 27. Click HERE to register now for the 2025 SEMA Show.

Participants can also make hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider. 

Spaces are still available for companies who would like to exhibit and connect with thousands of qualified buyers at the 2025 SEMA Show. For more information, visit semashow.com/exhibitor. 

For information about the 2025 SEMA Show or to register, visit semashow.com. To view this year's floorplan, log on to semashow.com/floorplan.  

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle Showcase at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, will feature an impressive lineup of standout builds demonstrating the latest trends and business opportunities in the light-truck and accessory market. Located on the outside walkway between North and West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center--known as the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail--the Showcase gives builders a platform to exhibit their skills and brand in front of thousands of aftermarket professionals, buyers and media.   

Applications for the 2025 TORA Vehicle Showcase are now open at this link. Companies interested in showcasing a vehicle must be a current SEMA and TORA member. 

"The TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase spotlights the best of truck and off-road innovation at the SEMA Show," said TORA Council Director Denise Waddingham. "It's a great opportunity for builders to gain recognition and showcase their craftsmanship on the aftermarket industry's biggest stage."

Benefits of Applying  

The TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase provides TORA member exhibiting manufacturers, and non-exhibiting builders and retailers with invaluable brand exposure opportunities. With thousands of SEMA Show attendees visiting the Showcase daily, the program not only raises awareness of the builders, but also the manufacturers’ parts that are installed on each vehicle. 

TORA council is seeking applications in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road, EV/hybrid and CUV/crossover. During SEMA Show week, attendees will vote for their favorite vehicle and recognize it with the TORA Best in Show Award. The winner will be recognized at the TORA Reception on Wednesday of the SEMA Show. All participating vehicles will also be featured in SEMA’s digital publications and social media leading up to, during and after the SEMA Show.   

The cost to participate in the Showcase is $1,500, with $500 of that amount benefiting SEMA Cares. Apply here.  

Contact TORA Council Director Denise Waddingham at deniselw@sema.org with any questions.

By SEMA News Editors 

The road to the SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, just got smoother. MGM Resorts International and Marriott International have announced a new long-term strategic licensing agreement to launch the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. This partnership brings eight iconic MGM Las Vegas resorts available to SEMA Showgoers under the Marriott Bonvoy umbrella—just in time for attendees planning for this year's SEMA Show, taking place November 4–7. 

Starting now, individual Marriott Bonvoy members who book a stay and pay independently under a qualified rate at MGM properties can now: 

• Earn Marriott Bonvoy points or miles. 
• Receive Elite Night Credits. 
• Enjoy MGM Collection tier benefits. 

This means Marriott Bonvoy members can earn points and receive benefits at existing Marriott properties and now these Las Vegas hotels in the SEMA Show block:

Four are affiliated with existing Marriott brands:

• ARIA Resort & Casino
• Bellagio Resort & Casino
• The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
• Park MGM Las Vegas

Six MGM Resorts destinations in Las Vegas join the MGM Collection:

• Excalibur Hotel & Casino
• Luxor Hotel & Casino
• MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
• New York-New York Hotel & Casino
• The Signature at MGM Grand
• Vdara Hotel & Spa Las Vegas

How to Take Advantage of the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy 

SEMA Showgoers who are already Marriott Bonvoy members wanting to take advantage of this program can take the following steps: 

• Book your SEMA Show hotel through onPeak, the only official housing provider of the SEMA Show. Ensure it is a Marriott or MGM property. 
• Enter the Marriott Bonvoy number under the "Hotel Rewards" section upon check-out. 
• IMPORTANT: Be sure to also share your Marriott Bonvoy number at the front desk during check-in. 

Not yet a Marriott Bonvoy member? Signing up for Marriott Bonvoy is FREE, and includes these great benefits upon check-in: 

• Complimentary Wi-Fi at all hotel locations. 
• Easy mobile check-in on the Bonvoy App: Get notified directly when your room is ready. 
• Set up your phone as your room key (where available).  
• Chat with the hotel: Ask questions, make requests or get recommendations using the chat feature.  
• Order food: Browse the menu and order room service.  
• Obtain a copy of your hotel folio and record of chargers, if applicable (posts within three days of check-out). 

Download the Bonvoy app to learn more or get started: 

This new collaboration between MGM Resorts and Marriott International enhances your SEMA Show experience with greater flexibility, exclusive benefits, and the ability to earn valuable rewards--just by enjoying your stay in Las Vegas. 

For more information on this program, visit the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy FAQs page.  

Secure your stay for the 2025 SEMA Show through the onPeak booking site here. 

Attendee registration is open for the 2025 SEMA Show here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $50 per person through Friday, June 27. Starting June 28, the rate increases to $75, and as of September 27, registration online or onsite will be $100. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. 

For questions and SEMA Show registration assistance, call 508-743-8571, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.