From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Responding to President Trump's announcement of a presidential memorandum on automotive policies, including freedom-to-fix protections for vehicle owners, Mike Spagnola, CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), issued the following statement:

 

President Trump's presidential memorandum on Lowering the Cost of Living by Promoting the Freedom to Fix is more bold action in support of vehicle owners and automotive aftermarket industry businesses from across the nation, and an example of federal leadership on behalf of our nation's vibrant car culture. Specifically, Section 3 of today's memorandum acknowledges the need for certainty at the federal level for automotive aftermarket businesses who seek to certify the emissions compliance of their products. We look forward to further details from EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin as the agency finalizes its guidance on this memorandum.

 

BACKGROUND

SEMA, through its Garage program, is the automotive industry’s leader in understanding the impact of aftermarket products on vehicle emissions, along with emerging safety technology on modified vehicles.

 

For more information, visit sema.org.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Sean Pavone

 

By SEMA News Editors

Secure your spot in the upcoming SEMA Garage Diamond Bar AUTEL ADAS training, July 14-16.

As demand for advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) expertise continues to rise, SEMA Garage is once again partnering with AUTEL to deliver hands-on, in-depth training designed to keep repair professionals ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology.

 

These highly sought-after sessions focus on ADAS fundamentals, calibration techniques and proper reporting practices––skills that are becoming increasingly critical as more ADAS-equipped vehicles enter the market.

 

The next opportunity to participate in this training takes place at SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, on Tuesday, July 14, and Wednesday, July 15, with an optional expanded third day of training on Thursday, July 16, at the facility located at 1577 Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765. (View on Google Maps).

 

The optional Day 3 on builds on the two-day curriculum by applying diagnostics, decision-making and liability awareness to real-world ADAS calibration scenarios. To participate, select the "3-Day" option when registering on the Autel website. Note: The "Day 3" option requires an additional fee. 

 

Only a limited number of seats remain for these sessions. 

 

How to Reserve Your Spot 

 

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website by: 

• Visiting autel.us/autel-academy.
• Select ADAS TRAINING.
• Navigate to the "California" tab and click REGISTER.

 

Previous SEMA Garage AUTEL training sessions sold out quickly, and organizers encourage early registration.

 

Want more details? Read a recap article here, or reach out to Autel via email to academy@autel.com or visit autel.us/autel-academy for details.

 

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Porsche Unveils New 911 GT4 R for Customer Racing

 

Porsche is expanding its customer motorsport portfolio with the new 911 GT4 R. For the first time, a car designed for global GT4 racing is based on the 911 platform. The race car is powered by a 4.0L six-cylinder boxer engine delivering up to 520 HP.

 

In North America, the new Porsche 911 GT4 R will race in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and SRO Pirelli GT4 America championships in open racing, among others.

 

The new 911 GT4 R builds on the technical foundation of the current 911 Cup, which is based on the road-legal Type 992.2 911 GT3. Compared with the previous Clubsport models based on the 718 Cayman, it offers a more powerful engine, wider front and rear track widths and further-developed motorsport electronics.

 

"With the new race car based on the Porsche 911 GT3, we are taking our successful GT4 program to a new level. The combination of iconic 911 DNA and the tried-and-tested GT4 concept creates a unique offering in the market," says Vice President Porsche Motorsport Thomas Laudenbach. "Our decision to bring the 911 platform into the GT4 category underlines the growing importance of this class in international motorsport. GT4 has evolved from an entry-level segment into a highly competitive, globally relevant racing platform."

 

The high-revving 4.0-L six-cylinder boxer engine is based on the unit used in the 911 GT3 and delivers up to 520 HP in the racing version. Maximum torque is up to 346 lb.-ft. As is standard under GT4 regulations, these performance figures vary depending on the Balance of Performance (BoP) classification. For example, the 911 GT4 R is delivered from the factory with airflow restrictors, which reduce power to 430 HP. Power is transmitted via a sequential six-speed dog-gearbox controlled with paddle shifters and a four-disc racing clutch.

 

Due to GT4 class requirements, the new 911 GT4 R chassis differs from the 911 Cup: the wheels are one inch narrower than those of the 911 Cup and use a five-bolt mounting pattern rather than the center locking design on the one-make racer it is closely related to. Dual-adjustable dampers and three selectable spring rates offer a range of set-up options.

 

 

The rear wing is manually adjustable to 11 positions. The car uses natural-fiber-reinforced plastic in combination with epoxy resin extensively. Components including the doors, engine cover and aerodynamic parts, as well as parts of the cockpit, are made from this material.

 

Inside the cockpit, the driver receives all relevant information via a 10.3-in. color display. An integrated data logger and a precise GPS system support analysis and performance optimization during racing. Additional ballast components allow the car to be adapted to the respective weight classification specified by the BoP.

 

For more information, visit racing.porsche.com.

 

IMS Museum to Open New Exhibit on Jeff Gordon

 

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) Museum is opening a new exhibit chronicling the life and career of NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon.

 

Opening July 1 before the Brickyard 400 returns to IMS, the exhibition will span both lower-level rotating galleries, replacing the "Now Stay Tuned" and "Setting the Pace" exhibits.

 

The Jeff Gordon exhibit will explore Gordon's racing timeline from his early roots driving quarter midgets, racing sprint cars as a teen, to his unparalleled stock car career. Gordon is a four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion (1995, 1997, 1998, 2001), secured 93 Cup Series victories (third all-time), and won the Brickyard 400 a record five times. 

 

"Jeff Gordon is one of the most influential drivers in NASCAR history, but he is also a prolific figure in Indiana racing history and culture," said IMS Museum Vice President of Curation and Education Jason Vansickle. "We begin by highlighting his early career, growing up in Pittsboro, Indiana, and of course, his unmatched success here at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the Brickyard 400." 

 

While the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has spotlighted NASCAR drivers and races over the years, this is the first time it has curated an entire exhibition dedicated to a single NASCAR driver.

 

Cars from every era of his career will be on display, from a 1985 sprint car to Brickyard 400, Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600-winning stock cars with his iconic No. 24 rainbow and flame liveries. Never-before-displayed artifacts include:  

• His first-ever trophy from a bicycle race in 1976. 
• The first Jeff Gordon T-shirt from 1978.  
• The firesuit from his first sprint car win in 1986. 
• The Williams Formula 1 steering wheel Gordon used when he swapped seats with Juan Pablo Montoya at the Speedway in 2003.  

 

More than 70 of his helmets will be displayed as art pieces on an eye-catching gallery wall. Additional artifacts include rings, trophies, letters and jackets with significance to Gordon's life and career. 

 

"I was incredibly honored when the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reached out with the idea for this exhibit," said Gordon. "It is the largest collection of my personal memorabilia ever displayed to the public, and I couldn't think of a better place for it than here at Indy, which had such a significant impact on my career. Countless hours went into putting this exhibit together, and I'm grateful to the IMS Museum team, my family and Hendrick Motorsports for their contributions. Walking through the exhibit for the first time will be a truly special experience and bring back a lot of memories. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I will." 

 

The Jeff Gordon exhibit is open until February 2027. The exhibit is included in Museum admission.

 

Note that during Brickyard 400 weekend, guests must purchase Indianapolis Motor Speedway gate admission to get into the track, in addition to Museum admission.

 

For more information, visit imsmuseum.org.

 

SRO America Unveils 2027 Calendar

 

SRO America has revealed its provisional 2027 calendar, featuring seven race weekends located across North America's premier circuits, including the return of a legendary venue and a marquee event change. The three-hour regular season race format, which was introduced in the 2026 season, will continue for the upcoming year as well, with the exception of one eight-hour spectacle.  

 

As in previous years, the season will begin on the West Coast at Sonoma Raceway before heading to Circuit of the Americas (COTA), where competitors will contest the inaugural Texas 8 Hour. The event replaces the long-running season-finale Indianapolis 8 Hour and marks an exciting new chapter for GT World Challenge America and Intercontinental GT World Challenge competition.  

Following COTA, the championship will return to Watkins Glen International in upstate New York. One of the most iconic road courses in North America, Watkins Glen joins the schedule for the first time since 2022. 

 

Road Atlanta returns to the calendar after the series came back to the Georgia track this year for the first time since 2011, enjoying a successful return before the series takes its traditional summer break. Competition resumes at Road America with the fan-favorite full field parade through Elkhart Lake, followed by Barber Motorsports Park as the penultimate event on the schedule. 

 

The season finale will take place at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in October, bringing the championship battles to a close at one of the world's most renowned and historic venues. 

 

The 2027 schedule continues SRO America's commitment to delivering world-class GT racing across the country while introducing fresh, new opportunities for teams, drivers and fans.  

 

For more information, visit sroamerica.com.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Want to get more out of your 2026 SEMA Show experience? Start planning your evenings now with SEMA's official after-hours event partner Jampack.

 

From private client dinners and networking events to the industry's biggest celebration and the return of SEMA Fest, a packed lineup of after-hours experiences will help attendees and exhibitors make the most of every day--and night--during SEMA Week in Las Vegas, November 3-6.

 

To help participants make the most of their time in Las Vegas, SEMA has partnered with Jampack, the official after-hours event partner for the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Let Jampack Handle Your SEMA Show After-Hours Plans in Vegas

 

Whether you're hosting customers, entertaining prospects, rewarding employees or simply looking to connect with fellow industry professionals, Jampack can help create a memorable experience beyond the convention center.

 

For exhibitors, Jampack offers planning assistance for team dinners, customer receptions, private events, group outings and other off-site experiences. From venue selection and logistics to local expertise and execution, exhibitors can leverage Jampack to simplify planning while focusing on their business objectives during the Show. 

 

Plan your customer event, team outing or private reception with Jampack. Click here to get started.

 

Attendees can also take advantage of exclusive networking and dining experiences designed to bring together automotive professionals in a more relaxed setting.

 

Among the experiences currently planned are:

 

After-Hours Networking Event

• Wednesday, November 4
• 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. PST
• Open bar included
• Location to be announced

 

Dining Experience

• Thursday, November 5
• 6:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. PST
• Resorts World Las Vegas

 

Join fellow attendees for exclusive networking and dining experiences during SEMA Week. Click here to learn more.

 

Whether you're looking to strengthen existing relationships or meet new industry contacts, these events offer additional opportunities to connect with exhibitors, buyers, manufacturers, builders and industry leaders after the day's business is complete.

 

End Your 2026 SEMA Week at SEMA Fest

 

On Friday, November 6, SEMA Fest returns to Las Vegas with an unforgettable combination of live music, motorsports demonstrations and automotive culture.

 

While the 2026 artist lineup remains under wraps, pre-sale tickets are available now at the lowest available pricing before the lineup is announced. Previous SEMA Fest events have featured major headline acts alongside high-energy motorsports attractions, making it the ultimate finale to SEMA Week.

 

The event also provides a unique opportunity for the industry to engage directly with automotive enthusiasts while celebrating the culture that drives the aftermarket forward.

 

Celebrate the Industry's Best at SEMA Industry Honors

 

The week's official after-hours programming continues on Thursday, November 5, with the 2026 SEMA Industry Honors at Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

 

The industry's premier awards celebration will recognize the people, companies and innovators helping shape the future of the specialty-equipment marketplace. Guests will enjoy a cocktail-hour reception beginning at 6:00 p.m. PST, followed by the awards ceremony and an exclusive after-party featuring live music, late-night bites and cocktails.

 

Tickets are available now for $50 and include hors d'oeuvres and access to an open bar throughout the evening.

 

Purchase tickets during the attendee registration process. Already registered? Add tickets to your badge through the Registration Resource Center or contact Registration Customer Service at 508-743-8571 and aapexsema@maritz.com. 

 

More to Come: Stay Tuned for More Event Announcements

 

Additional after-hours events, networking opportunities and special experiences will be announced as the 2026 SEMA Show approaches.

 

Whether you're planning a private customer reception, attending an industry celebration or wrapping up the week at SEMA Fest, now is the time to begin building your SEMA Week itinerary.

 

For exhibitors interested in planning private events and group experiences, visit Jampack's SEMA Show services page. Attendees can learn more about upcoming after-hours events during the registration process and through future SEMA Show announcements.

 

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.  

 

By SEMA News Editors 

Shawn Cun, owner of EV Rods in Long Beach, said a pleasant surprise was learning that SEMA business members can access SEMA Garage shop facilities at no cost. 

 

As the founder of EV Rods in Long Beach, California, Shawn Cun is developing suspension products for electric vehicles (EVs), which often require unique engineering considerations due to their increased weight compared to traditional internal-combustion vehicles.  

 

While developing a lowering kit for the Ford F-150 Lightning––set to launch at an industry event this month––Cun turned to SEMA Membership to secure liability insurance for his growing business.

 

"That's what initially drove me to seek SEMA Membership," Cun said. "As I continued building momentum, I realized I was going to need liability insurance. During my research, it was recommended that I look into becoming a SEMA member because it would provide access to discounted insurance rates through SEMA's partner, RevPro."

 

Liability coverage was Cun's main introduction into SEMA Membership, but he would soon uncover additional benefits that delivered even greater value. 

 

Cun set up a meeting with RevPro and was not disappointed. "We had a very detailed conversation. They answered a lot of my questions, and I felt much better after that meeting."

 

"Having peace of mind knowing there's an insurance carrier behind me, supporting me through that process, and that I'm not by myself is important," Cun continued. "I have to consider safety throughout the entire process. I think about the fact that I'm putting this system on my own truck and driving around with my daughter in it. It needs to be safe. That's the mindset I have going into this."

 

Soon enough, Cun was back to his business, attempting to scan his F-150 for EV Rods' new lowering kit. He had heard about SEMA Garage's Tech Transfer program––a paid subscription that offers OEM-provided CAD files to minimize or even eliminate the need for reverse engineering––but thought he would take a spin with the F-150 and his own 3D scanner.  

 

Shawn Cun of EV Rods is developing a lowering kit for Ford F-150 Lightnings, which will debut at an industry event later this month.

 

"Then I spent hours scanning a part and trying to figure out why things weren't transferring correctly," Cun said. "When I finally accessed Ford's OEM files through the Tech Transfer program, I found not only the part I needed but also the entire frame and suspension components."

 

"Honestly, the value I received from a single file essentially paid for the entire cost of access. My only regret is that I didn't access it sooner," Cun shared.

 

With the lowering kit nearing completion, Cun is already preparing for the next phase of growth. Interested buyers can visit ElectricVehicleRods.com or check out the Instagram page to learn more about EV Rods and join the company's waitlist for future product announcements. 

 

For Cun, the experience reinforced that SEMA Membership offers more than a single service or discount. What began as a search for business liability insurance quickly expanded into access to industry expertise, engineering resources and business tools that are helping move EV Rods closer to market.  

 

That's a lesson Cun believes can benefit businesses of any size. While EV Rods is currently a one-person operation, he found that many of the same resources used by established aftermarket companies were immediately available through his membership. 

 

SEMA Membership provides access to a wide range of programs and services designed to help businesses save money, work more efficiently, and grow within the automotive aftermarket. Benefits include cost-saving programs, networking opportunities, market research, insurance solutions, access to SEMA Garage resources and much more. 

 

Current members are encouraged to explore their member portal and ensure they're taking full advantage of available benefits by logging into sema.org and visiting the "My Benefits" page.

 

Businesses interested in becoming SEMA members can learn more by visiting sema.org/membership-business. Have questions? Contact the SEMA Membership Team at 909-610-2030 or members@sema.org.  

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

SEMA has added Megan Kowalis to its Washington, D.C.-based Government Affairs team, bringing extensive grassroots mobilization experience to the organization's acclaimed program for mobilizing automotive enthusiasts and content creators for advocacy. As manager of digital communications and partnerships, Kowalis will lead outreach and relationship management with a variety of stakeholders and online content creators in the automotive space.

 

Before joining SEMA, Kowalis spearheaded national and statewide grassroots programs for the National Alliance for Care at Home and Twenty7Fifty Public Affairs. She has a familiarity with the organization and industry, having previously supported SEMA-member advocates during Capitol Hill meetings for a 2025 fly-in.

 

"Megan brings fresh energy to this role and a proven track record of success engaging new advocates on issues that impact their businesses and lifestyles," said SEMA Director of Communications Matt Daigle. "We're excited to tap into her creativity to connect with the content creator community as we continue to grow a program that has provided tremendous value to SEMA's advocacy efforts."

 

"America's car culture is a vibrant and important part of who we are as a nation, and the people who make it great are deserve to have their voices elevated in Washington, D.C.," said Kowalis. "I'm thrilled to be working for SEMA in an official capacity and can't wait to engage with our community's content creators, who make up a critically important group of voices in our industry and for our advocacy work."

 

Kowalis, a Colorado native, holds a bachelor's degree in political science and English literature from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.

 

SEMA's groundbreaking work to engage content creators on advocacy has established a network of more than 150 creators spanning car culture, from builders to racers to off-road enthusiasts, whose authenticity and passion for the automotive industry has translated well to grassroots mobilization. The program has yielded significant legislative wins at the federal and state levels, and was among the reasons SEMA was awarded the 2025 Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) President's Award for Excellence in Communications.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

SEMA has added Megan Kowalis to its Washington, D.C.-based Government Affairs team, bringing extensive grassroots mobilization experience to the organization's acclaimed program for mobilizing automotive enthusiasts and content creators for advocacy. As manager of digital communications and partnerships, Kowalis will lead outreach and relationship management with a variety of stakeholders and online content creators in the automotive space.

 

Before joining SEMA, Kowalis spearheaded national and statewide grassroots programs for the National Alliance for Care at Home and Twenty7Fifty Public Affairs. She has a familiarity with the organization and industry, having previously supported SEMA-member advocates during Capitol Hill meetings for a 2025 fly-in.

 

"Megan brings fresh energy to this role and a proven track record of success engaging new advocates on issues that impact their businesses and lifestyles," said SEMA Director of Communications Matt Daigle. "We're excited to tap into her creativity to connect with the content creator community as we continue to grow a program that has provided tremendous value to SEMA's advocacy efforts."

 

"America's car culture is a vibrant and important part of who we are as a nation, and the people who make it great are deserve to have their voices elevated in Washington, D.C.," said Kowalis. "I'm thrilled to be working for SEMA in an official capacity and can't wait to engage with our community's content creators, who make up a critically important group of voices in our industry and for our advocacy work."

 

Kowalis, a Colorado native, holds a bachelor's degree in political science and English literature from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.

 

SEMA's groundbreaking work to engage content creators on advocacy has established a network of more than 150 creators spanning car culture, from builders to racers to off-road enthusiasts, whose authenticity and passion for the automotive industry has translated well to grassroots mobilization. The program has yielded significant legislative wins at the federal and state levels, and was among the reasons SEMA was awarded the 2025 Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) President's Award for Excellence in Communications.

By Ashley Reyes

 

The countdown is on for the Industry Cup Challenge, taking place at the SEMA Leaders and Legends Gala on Friday, July 24, in Newport Beach, California.

 

SEMA member companies still have time to join the fun and race a pinewood derby car against other SEMA members in thrilling downhill action for a great cause. Sign up here.

 

Proceeds from the Industry Cup Challenge will significantly enhance the lives of children in need by directly benefiting the three SEMA Cares' partners:

 

• Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer: Provides free, comprehensive support to pediatric cancer patients and their families through mental, behavioral, educational and social services.
• Childhelp: Helps victims of child abuse and neglect through prevention, intervention and treatment.
• Victory Junction: Enriches the lives of children with serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun and empowering, at no cost to children or their families.

 

The Industry Cup Challenge features competitors in five different categories: warehouse distributions, manufacturers, media, sales rep agencies and service providers. Companies from each category will race to be number one in their division. The winners of each category will then race head-to-head to be crowned the 2026 Industry Cup Challenge champion.

 

Will your company take home the title and trophy in 2026? There's only one way to find out. Join the challenge here!

 

The donation cost is $1,000 per sponsoring company. Vehicles are randomly assigned and the race is officiated by SEMA Cares volunteers. If a sponsoring company cannot attend the Gala, a SEMA Cares volunteer will race the company's pinewood car on their behalf for the chance to win.

 

Don't want to race but still want to contribute? See the other ways you can support SEMA Cares at sema.org/sema-cares.

 

To purchase tickets for the SEMA Leaders and Legends Gala, the prestigious celebration set to honor the 2026 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees and recognize incoming and outgoing members of the SEMA Board of Directors, visit sema.org/gala.  

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Eric Ammerman, director of off-road at TYRI Lighting, as the council's newest spotlight member. Get to know Ammerman in his interview with SEMA News below. 

 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry? 

Eric Ammerman: I have always been a fan of the outdoors and of cars and trucks. What better way to earn a living than to enjoy both of those things? My dad set me on this path when I was a kid, even though he never worked in automotive.

 

SN: Why did you join the TORA council?

EA: Pretty quickly after starting my career in the off-road aftermarket, I realized the most incredible part of this industry is the people involved. Anything I can do to help the people and the companies succeed and support their families, I want to do it.

 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

EA: I've gotten a lot of advice over the years, so it's hard to pick just one. But one of the super important ones that I have not only gotten, but given as well, is to cultivate long-term relationships rather than short-term wins. It seems simple, but it's important. You never know what the future holds and stepping on one person to get the win may do more damage than it's worth.

 

SN: What is your daily driver?

EA: A V8 Nissan Titan Pro 4x Pickup. I have several heavily modified vehicles, so I really wanted a daily that I would have no interest in modifying. I need to pull a trailer, and I need to do truck stuff, so I bought it wholesale from a car dealer friend of mine. I wasn't even 5 miles away from the dealership before I reached out to Alpine to get a head unit so I could have CarPlay. I guess the moral of the story here is that working in this industry has ruined me, and I can't leave any car alone.

 

SN: What was the first vehicle you modified?

EA: A '74 VW Super Beetle. When I was 15, my dad told me if I wanted to have a car, I would have to work for it. Not only in the financial sense, but on the car as well. He drove me around with an envelope of the money I saved from mowing lawns to look at cars that I found in the local paper. We quickly realized all the CJ7s in my price range had been destroyed by Pennsylvania road salt, so I started looking at Beetles. Finally, we found one at a junkyard that was mostly in one piece. It was a little more than I had to spend, but he taught me how to negotiate a deal to take it home. Once we got it towed back, he handed me a repair manual and pointed to his toolbox and said, "You can get your license once it's running and driving. You can use all my tools and if you need something else, I'll buy it." I think that moment really set me on the path I am now.

 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

Alongside the ICE World: Mercedes Brings Electric-Only C-Class EQ––Even in AMG Guise

 

In 2027, Mercedes will once again raise the bar with the launch of its highly anticipated next-generation all-electric compact sedan. The new Mercedes C-Class EQ will embody cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and the brand's commitment to a greener automotive future.

 

The Mercedes C-Class EQ boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design that seamlessly combines elegance with functionality. The exterior features distinctive LED lighting elements, a sculpted front grille, and a futuristic silhouette, signaling a departure from conventional internal combustion engine designs.

 

Powered by advanced electric drivetrain technology, the C-Class EQ delivers exhilarating performance without compromising efficiency. The electric powertrain ensures instant torque, enabling rapid acceleration and a quiet driving experience. The '27 C-Class EQ will be equipped with a state-of-the-art battery system that provides an impressive range on a single charge, making it a practical choice for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

 

In line with Mercedes-Benz's commitment to sustainability, the electric C-Class incorporates eco-friendly materials in its interior design. The cabin features responsibly sourced wood accents, recycled textiles and environmentally conscious materials, setting a new standard for luxury vehicles that prioritize the planet.

 

The new Mercedes C-Class EQ is equipped with the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. A large touchscreen interface, intuitive voice controls and seamless smartphone integration provide a futuristic, user-friendly driving experience. Additionally, the car is equipped with advanced driver-assistance features, including autonomous driving capabilities, for a safer and more relaxed journey.

 

Mercedes has invested heavily in expanding electric charging infrastructure, ensuring C-Class EQ owners have convenient access to a robust network of charging stations. With fast-charging capabilities, the C-Class can recharge a significant portion of its battery in a short amount of time, minimizing downtime and enhancing the overall ownership experience.

 

As the electric Mercedes C-Class will be competitively priced, sustainable luxury will become accessible to a broader market. It will be available in various trim levels, allowing customers to choose the features that best suit their preferences. The vehicle is set to roll out in key global markets, with a phased release plan to meet growing demand.

 

Our exclusive spy shots reveal that the upcoming '27 Mercedes-AMG C-Class is shifting toward a radical high-performance electric architecture. The EV model will ride on the specialized MB.EA-M platform (Mercedes-Benz Electric Architecture Mid-Size). Rumors indicate the top-tier configuration will produce well in excess of 600 hp, driven by advanced YASA axial-flux motors (two at the rear and one at the front). The electric AMG is undergoing rigorous mountain testing, with an official debut expected for the '27 model year.

 

Back to V8: Makeover for Mercedes-AMG CLE 63

 

There are changes to the Mercedes CLE coupe at both the front and rear, but it is still not a major makeover for the car. An expanded Panamericana-style grille, new lower inlets and headlights that gain the star-logo LED running lamp first seen on the Concept CLA a few years ago appear to account for the updates to the front end--both for the standard CLE and its AMG-powered cousins bearing the 53 and 63 badges.

 

Changes at the rear include new taillights, once again featuring those stars. The lower bumper layout has also been revised slightly.

 

We can't see much of the new car's interior, but one change is clearly visible. It features a new steering wheel, adopting Mercedes-Benz's latest design with the return of physical controls instead of haptic touchpads. There should be some software updates and possibly hardware changes, but the screens themselves, along with the rest of the dashboard, appear unchanged.

 

CarBuzz spies report that the new car will get a V8 for the first time. The car, which launched in 2023 as a successor to both the C-Class and E-Class coupes, arrived with a 3.0L inline-six badged as the CLE 53. This time around, it's expected to retain that engine, which now produces 443 hp. But there's an even more powerful option on the way.

 

AMG's V8-powered CLE 63 will get the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that first debuted in the S-Class sedan earlier this year. It's an evolution of Mercedes-Benz's existing V8 engines and features a high-revving flat-plane crankshaft. The engine is expected to produce around 600 hp in the CLE 63, leaving room above it for the Mythos performance model that AMG has been teasing. That model could produce 650 hp or more when it arrives.

 

Mercedes-AMG is slowly phasing out its attempts to replace V8s with a 2.0L four-cylinder. The C63 equipped with that engine and plug-in hybrid system made more power than the V8, but buyers didn't care. They wanted the sound, not the impressive 469hp 2.0L.

 

In 2025, AMG boss Michael Scheibe remarked that, "We see that some of our very loyal customers struggle a bit with the concept. Of course, no doubt we have also lost some customers who are just into V8s."

 

The facelift is expected to be revealed later this year and will likely go on sale in early 2027. Mercedes-Benz is in the midst of a major product offensive that includes 30 new or refreshed vehicles by the end of 2027.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia