Thu, 06/18/2026 - 10:39

By SEMA News Editors

NetSuite logo and Ramp logo.

 

Did you know SEMA Membership starts at $100* and gives automotive aftermarket companies the tools, connections and resources to help their business grow, save and compete?

 

The easiest way to take advantage of these benefits is by logging into SEMA.org and navigating to the "My Benefits" page.

 

From industry-specific resources and networking opportunities to discounts on leading business solutions, the benefits portal serves as a central hub for members.

 

This month's spotlight benefits available to SEMA business members include software and programs that put artificial intelligence (AI) to work for you.

 

As AI continues to reshape how companies operate, SEMA members can access exclusive savings on powerful business platforms that use AI to automate tasks, improve decision-making and increase efficiency, including:

 

NetSuite

NetSuite is a cloud-based business management platform that combines enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship management (CRM) and financial management tools in a single system. It's embedded and generative AI capabilities are designed to help automate workflows, analyze business data and streamline day-to-day operations.

 

SEMA members can save on NetSuite's Starter, Standard and Premium editions, along with a three-year price cap following the initial Software as a Service (SaaS) term––all in the benefits portal.

 

Ramp

Members can also access exclusive savings on Ramp, an AI-powered finance automation platform that helps businesses reduce manual work across expense management, accounts payable and financial operations. Ramp's technology is designed to automate routine processes, minimize errors and provide actionable insights that help companies make smarter financial decisions.

 

Access Industry Resources Built for the Automotive Aftermarket

 

Beyond business software discounts, SEMA membership connects members with programs and services created specifically for the automotive aftermarket.

 

Members can download SEMA Market Research reports, access SEMA Data resources, connect with councils and networks, and take advantage of SEMA Garage services and member pricing. These tools provide valuable industry intelligence, product development support and networking opportunities to help businesses grow.

 

Maximize Your SEMA Membership

 

Whether you're looking to leverage AI-powered business solutions, gain market insights or connect with industry peers, SEMA membership is your gateway to the full range of membership benefits.

 

Don't leave valuable resources unused. Log in to your SEMA Member Portal today and explore the tools, connections and exclusive savings available to help your business succeed.

 

Join SEMA today at sema.org/membership-business

 

Join SEMA.

 

*Dues are based on your annual sales and business type.

 

Background image courtesy of Shutterstock 

 


 

SEMA is not affiliated with, nor does it sell or thoroughly evaluate the products, services, and companies listed. SEMA provides this information to SEMA members for their evaluation and consideration and does not endorse or sponsor any company, product, or service. SEMA takes no responsibility for, and makes no representation, warranty, or assurance as to the accuracy, quality, reliability, or completeness of the products or services offered.

 

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 09:37

 By SEMA News Editors

Aerial view image of the Las Vegas Strip.

 

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, in Las Vegas.

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners--detailed below--attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event.

 

Airline Discount Codes for 2026 SEMA Show Attendees

All codes are valid for travel dates October 27 through November 9, 2026.

Can't view the table? Scroll to the bottom of it for the text-only details.

AIRLINE DISCOUNT CODE PHONE WEBSITE
Alaska Airlines 7% off published fares CMO943 800-445-4435 (fee applies to phone reservations) Click here to visit alaskaair.com.
Delta Air Lines 3%, 5%, or 8% discounts* NY4K4 800-328-1111*** Click here to book on the Delta Air Lines website.
Southwest Airlines Up to 10% off Choice Extra and Choice Preferred Company ID: 90253240 N/A Click here to book on the Southwest Airlines business website.
United Airlines 2%, 5%, or 7% discounts* ZS5W757550 800-426-1122** Click here to book on the United website.

 

 

Alaska Airlines
7% off published fares 
October 27-November 9, 2026 
CMO943
800-445-4435 (fee applies to phone reservations)
alaskaair.com

 

Delta Air Lines
3%, 5%, or 8% discounts*
October 27 - November 9, 2026
NY4K4
800-328-1111***
Click here to book on the Delta Air Lines website.

 

Southwest Airlines
Up to 10% off Choice Extra and Choice Preferred
October 31-November 9, 2026
Click here to book on the Southwest Airlines business website.

 

United Airlines
2%, 5%, or 7% discounts*
October 27-November 9, 2026
ZS5W757550
800-426-1122**
Click here to book on the United website.

 

 

Don't forget to book your hotel through the SEMA Show's official provider, onPeak, to secure the best rates, flexible booking options and rewards points. Skipping the official block could mean leaving money--and perks like MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy rewards points--on the table, so lock in your room early to make the most of your 2026 SEMA Show experience. Book here or click the button below:

A red button with the text "BOOK HERE."

 

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, 2026, 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

 

*Depending on fare class, applicable in most regions.
 

**United Airlines' Meetings Reservation Desk from 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday (closed for major U.S. holidays) at 800-426-1122 for booking assistance. Booking fees are waived for United Meetings reservations. International customers may contact their local United Reservation Desk.
 

***You may also call Delta Meeting Network at 800-328-1111, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NY4K4. Please note there is no service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via the Delta Airlines' reservation 800 number.

 

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 09:16

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for the TORA Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Club Invasion in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

 

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) and SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) are hosting a networking event for industry members during the Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Club Invasion in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The event will take place on August 20 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. ET at the Staybridge Suites.  

Button to RSVP for Jeep Club Invasion.

 

Benefits of Attending:
 

  • Build B2B relationships with truck and off-road manufacturers, builders, retailers and media representatives in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
     
  • Learn about SEMA council and network programs, events and resources that support business growth.
     
  • Get updates on advocacy efforts impacting the truck and off-road market and how you can support the cause.
     
  • Discover volunteer opportunities that have real industry impact.    

 

As SEMA councils and networks continue to guide and shape the future of the automotive aftermarket, attending the mixer is a great way to get involved and build a stronger, more connected community.  

 

Light snacks and drinks will be served. RSVP here

To learn more about SEMA Councils and Networks, visit www.sema.org/volunteer.

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 02:21

By SEMA News Editors

 

Callaway Performance Centers Now Open for Business
Callaway logo overtop cars.

 

Callaway Cars has recently expanded its services portfolio with the addition of Callaway Performance Centers, now open for business at its two locations: Lyme, Connecticut, and Temecula, California, facilities. 

 

Now, the same skilled technicians that assemble complete Callaways are available to install Callaway engineered and manufactured components and systems, selected performance parts from other manufacturers and GM replacement parts on your car, truck or SUV, says the company. 

 

To schedule your appointment for vehicle upgrades, maintenance or repair, contact the Callaway Performance Center Managers:

  • For Old Lyme, Connecticut, service, call 860-598-4275 or email ctcarshop@callawaycars.com
  • For Temecula, California, service, call 951-296-6762 or email info@inokinetic.com

 

RealTruck, Rack Attack Announce New Retail Partnership
RealTruck 'Store-in-Store' in a RackAttack store.

 

RealTruck, a manufacturer of a variety of truck accessories, and Rack Attack, a retailer of vehicle rack solutions, have formed a new partnership to bring RealTruck "Store-in-Store" retail shops to 45 Rack Attack locations in North America.

 

The first in-store shop opened at Rack Attack's Orange County store in Tustin, California, in October 2025. Since then, all 31 other United States locations have been opened with the latest integration at Rack Attack's Minneapolis store in May 2026.

 

As of today, five additional official RealTruck store-in-store retail shops have opened in Canadian Rack Attack locations (Ottawa, Calgary South, Calgary North, Coquitlam and Vancouver). All 14 Canadian Rack Attack locations will have official RealTruck store-in-store retail shops installed by July 2026.

 

"This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for RealTruck, allowing us to showcase our industry-leading truck accessories in an exclusive consumer experience inside Rack Attack's retail locations," said Travis Shirley, senior vice president of sales at RealTruck. "We applaud Rack Attack's forward-thinking and innovative approach to make it easier than ever for truck owners to explore, shop and get their hands on RealTruck products that help transform their vehicles to fit their lifestyles."

 

These dedicated spaces will feature the RealTruck Builder platform, allowing customers to visualize their truck in interactive 3D and explore accessory combinations for their vehicle. RealTruck products, such as truck bed covers, steps, swing cases, Husky Liners floor and cargo liners and more, will be featured. While in the store-in-store, customers will be able to explore RealTruck products and talk with experts about the various options available for their vehicle.

 

"The launch of official RealTruck store-in-store retail shops within our Rack Attack locations will elevate our partnership and create the ultimate customer experience. Together, we are offering truck owners and outdoor enthusiasts the greatest choice of products, combined with the best service across all our markets in North America," says Alexander Welbers, CEO, Rack Attack.

 

For more information, visit realtruck.com.

 

Mirka POLAROS RP 600 Receives Red Dot Award for Product Design
Image of the Polaros RP 600.

 

The Mirka POLAROS RP 600 has received a 2026 Red Dot Award for Product Design, recognizing the innovative corded polisher’s breakthrough approach to usability, ergonomics and finishing performance.

 

Introduced less than a year ago, the POLAROS RP 600 has redefined expectations for modern polishing tools with its design featuring a distinctive low-profile design, advanced RPM control technology and digital connectivity through the myMirka app.

 

The international Red Dot Award is one of the world's most recognized design competitions, honoring products that demonstrate outstanding innovation, functionality and quality.

 

The low-profile design, without protruding side or loop handles, the ability to connect the tool to the myMirka app and the patent-pending RPM control features are some of the things that make POLAROS unique.

 

Simon Bäck, senior development engineer at Mirka, highlights another of POLAROS’s features as a decisive factor in the polisher's popularity.

 

"I think the success of the POLAROS, and what we are most proud of, is the gearless design. It took a lot of time to get right, but once we did, the results speak for themselves: a more efficient use of the power that is directly targeted at the surface and a much quieter machine."

 

Another key advantage of the POLAROS RP 600 is its modular construction, which simplifies servicing and extends product life. The tool is manufactured in Finland using locally sourced components whenever possible.

 

For more information, visit mirka.com.

 

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 22:46

By SEMA Magazine Editors

A crowded booth and vehicle display at SEMA.

Relive the best of customization and car culture from the most recent event before registering to attend this year's SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas.

 

Register button.

 

Throughout four dynamic days in Las Vegas, the annual SEMA Show reiterated its role as the automotive aftermarket's premier business event. With 150,000 industry professionals, 2,300 exhibiting brands––including 500 first-time participants––and media from 140 countries gathering at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), the 2025 Show once again delivered an unequaled, concentrated environment for innovation, collaboration and growth. 

 

"The SEMA Show stands as the global hub for automotive innovation and commerce," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It brings together leaders and visionaries to shape strategies that will define the future of mobility and aftermarket growth worldwide."

 

Consumer spending on aftermarket accessories reached $52.65 billion in 2024, underscoring the vibrancy of an industry contributing an estimated $337 billion annually to the U.S. economy while supporting more than 1.3 million jobs. And the excitement and power of that industry was on full display at the annual trade gathering, showcasing a sector that continues to thrive and expand worldwide.

 

"The SEMA Show is a global pop-up marketplace where business and culture intersect," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. "This year highlighted the industry's ability to adapt and innovate, from emerging propulsion technologies to next-generation customization trends. By connecting manufacturers, buyers and enthusiasts in one dynamic environment, the Show continues to both shape and reveal the future of automotive performance and personalization."

 

Representing a dynamic crossroads for commerce and creativity, the 2025 SEMA Show provided an unparalleled strategic platform for companies to launch products, forge partnerships and gain insights into emerging trends. Thousands of new products debuted across the LVCC campus, including hundreds featured in the Show's New Products Showcase, setting the tone for one of the most innovative product cycles in history.

 

In short, there are simply no words to describe a trade event of this size and scope. You literally must see it to believe it. In that spirit, SEMA magazine is pleased to present this photographic essay reliving some of the major highlights, sights and excitement of the 2025 SEMA Show.

 

2025 SEMA Show crowds and vehicles

 

2025 SEMA Show booth displays

 

INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY

 

Someone looking at intake manifold in the New Products Showcase.

 

Attendees check out an engine at the SEMA Show.

 

A closeup of an engine in the New Products Showcase.

 

A live demonstration at the SEMA Show.

 

An overview of the New Products Showcase.

 

PASSION AND BUSINESS

 

An exhibitor rep speaking with a buyer.

 

An exhibitor rep speaking with a buyer.

 

People watch an unveiling.

 

Handshakes and networking at the SEMA Show.

 

A live demonstration at the SEMA Show.

 

A booth display at the SEMA Show.

 

A media member speaks with a buyer at the SEMA Show.

 

VEHICLES AND DEMONSTRATIONS

 

Burnouts outside of SEMA.

 

A parade of feature vehicles.

 

The winning Battles of the Builder vehicle.

 

A Jeep on display.

 

A racing simulator in use.

 

Drifting outside of the SEMA Show.

 

A speaker at the SEMA Show.

 

A feature vehicle at the SEMA Show.

 

Feature vehicles at the SEMA Show.

 

A crowded vehicle display at the SEMA Show.

 

A vehicle unveiling at the SEMA Show.

 

LEADERS AND LEGENDS

 

A vehicle unveiling at the SEMA Show.

 

A ribbon cutting at the SEMA Show.

 

Fluffy meets a fan at the SEMA Show.

 

Racing star on stage at the SEMA Show.

 

Chip Foose at the SEMA Show.

 

Richard Petty at the SEMA Show.

 

CULTURE AND COMMUNITY

 

SEMA Fest stage and crowds.

 

Drifting at SEMA.

 

SEMA Fest crowds.

 

Stunts at SEMA.

 

SEMA Fest stage.

 

Motorsports action at SEMA.

 

Motorsports action at SEMA.

 

Motorsports action at SEMA.

 

Wheel of Death at SEMA Fest.

 

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.   

 

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:21

 

Turbocharged at Last: Porsche 911 GT3 RS Facelift Could Get a Mild Turbo

 

SEMA News shared images of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS last month, but sources were able to provide more recent spy shots of the car testing in Germany. See the latest photos from SEMA News sources below:

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS testing on track in Germany.

 

A lightly camouflaged prototype of the revised 992.2 GT3 RS was spotted during testing in its natural habitat--the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany--and the details are revealing. While the front appears virtually unchanged, the updates are concentrated at the rear and give rise to speculation.

 

At the rear, the prototype shows clear differences from the current model. The bumper has been redesigned, as has the diffuser, which now features four vertical fins--one more than the current model. Particularly striking are two additional openings to the left and right of the central pair of tailpipes.

 

These additional outlets could be functional or purely decorative--but a modified exhaust system or additional cooling is more likely. Below the continuous light strip, there is also a previously hidden area that suggests another air outlet. All these clues point to significantly higher cooling and exhaust requirements--typical for a turbocharged engine.

 

Stricter Euro 7 regulations are putting Porsche in a difficult position. GT boss Andreas Preuninger made it clear in October 2024 that without turbocharging or electrification, a future GT3 will not meet the standard in Europe. The timeframe: roughly "in two years"--exactly when the 992.2 GT3 RS is expected to launch.

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS testing on track in Germany.

 

In an interview, Preuninger hinted that the company was weighing hybridization and turbocharging internally--with a clear tendency toward the latter. This statement is significant and provides a solid basis for current speculation.

 

For Porsche, this means walking a tightrope: how can it remain true to the GT3 DNA while meeting regulatory requirements? The answer could lie in "gentle" turbocharging--a far cry from the heavy hybridization that has led to market challenges for Ferrari.

 

The rumor mill is in full swing and the scenarios being discussed are technically plausible. The focus is on a variant of the new 3.6L turbo six-cylinder engine already used in the Carrera GTS T-Hybrid.

 

Realistically, there is much to be said for scenario 1. The additional cooling vents on the prototype, the acoustic evidence and Preuninger’s statements paint a coherent picture. A gently electrified turbocharged six-cylinder engine could be the solution: Euro 7-compliant, powerful and not as heavy as a full hybrid.

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS testing on track in Germany.

 

If the GT3 RS does come with turbocharging, it would be more than just a technical update--it would be a conceptual revolution. Until now, the dividing line has been clearly defined: GT3 for naturally aspirated engine purists, GT2 for turbo power.

 

With a turbocharged GT3 RS, Porsche would blur this line and bring the RS closer to the future GT2 RS. The latter is expected to launch with an even more powerful plug-in hybrid system based on a 4.0L twin-turbo boxer engine with more than 1,000 hp.

 

While the powertrain debate is heating up, the visual changes are less controversial but just as important. The 992.2 GT3 RS will be further refined aerodynamically--a typical Porsche approach to continuous improvement. Confirmed visual changes include a redesigned rear bumper with new air ducts, an enlarged diffuser with four instead of three vertical fins and additional air outlets to the left and right of the tailpipes. Larger tailpipes will also be added for a more muscular appearance, along with new rear lights in the 992.2 design. Reprofiled hood vents and small leading edges at the front round out the package.

 

These changes may seem subtle, but they are functionally well thought out. Each modification serves to improve aerodynamics, cooling or exhaust gas management--all indications of a technically advanced, possibly turbocharged power unit.

 

Another Facelift for the Porsche Panamera

The Porsche Panamera testing on track in Germany.

 

Part of the reason Porsche Panamera deliveries declined 6% in 2025 compared to 2024 is the five-door liftback's age. Twinned with the Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur on the Volkswagen Group's MSB platform, the more dynamic alternative to the Cayenne has changed little since Porsche introduced the second generation in '16 as a '17 model.

 

Although the Panamera received a different codename in 2024 with the introduction of the third generation, the 976 is best viewed as an incremental update of the previous 971. Now available exclusively as a five-door liftback, the 976-generation Panamera will undergo a well-deserved refresh in 2027. Our spy photographers caught it testing at Germany's Nürburgring racetrack, and the visual changes appear fairly extensive.

 

The first prototypes of the facelift reveal slight modifications to the front bumper design, which adopts blockier styling cues that appear to improve both aerodynamics and cooling. The headlights are also different, and their illuminated Porsche logos have been relocated to the inner edge of the headlight clusters.

The Porsche Panamera testing on track in Germany.

 

Higher up, the revised integration of the sensor suite at the top of the windshield is another obvious change from the '26-model-year Panamera. Eerily similar to the Macan Electric's setup, it should also integrate the front camera, rain sensor, light sensor and humidity sensor that helps the climate-control system prevent interior fogging.

 

Pictured with carbon-ceramic brakes that would not look out of place on the GTS and other performance-oriented Panamera models, the newcomer features a rear bumper design we have not seen before on any Panamera. Also blockier in appearance, the rear bumper incorporates a reshaped aerodynamic diffuser and quad exhaust outlets.

 

The round exhaust tips indicate a sport exhaust similar to what is offered on the GTS, Turbo E-Hybrid and Turbo S E-Hybrid.

The Porsche Panamera testing on track in Germany.

 

Believed to be called the Turbo GT, the Nürburgring Nordschleife-bound model could build on the Turbo S E-Hybrid or go in a completely different direction from the plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain and all-wheel-drive system found in that model. That direction could mirror Bentley's limited-run Continental GT Supersports, a rear-drive bruiser capable of generating 1.3 Gs in the corners.

 

While interior photos are not yet available, the facelifted Panamera could surprise us with a Cayenne Electric-inspired Flow Display. A head-up display with augmented reality should also be considered, along with a higher-definition instrument cluster.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:36

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for the MPMC Member Spotlight Jason Chandler.

 

The SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) named Jason Chandler, marketing director at Auto Metal Direct, as the council’s newest spotlight member.

Get to know Chandler in the SEMA News interview below.

 

SN: What is your current job? What do you do and how long have you been doing it? 

Jason Chandler: I am the director of marketing and industry relations at Auto Metal Direct (AMD), one of the most trusted names in restoration products in the classic truck and musclecar markets. I'm responsible for overseeing AMD's full marketing strategy, including brand development, digital content, social media, influencer and creator partnerships and industry relations.

I manage our presence at major automotive events, including Goodguys, SEMA and many other key industry activations throughout the year. I also serve as AMD's primary liaison to the automotive aftermarket industry––building and maintaining relationships with media partners, content creators, restoration shops, trade schools and industry organizations, including the SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) and the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) council, where I currently serve on the Select Committee.

I try to bridge the gap between AMD's manufacturing and product development operations and the passionate builder and restoration community our brand serves. I ensure that AMD's products, story and mission reach the right audience through authentic, community-driven marketing and strategic industry partnerships.

 

SN: Did you ever consider another career or industry, and what made you choose automotive manufacturing?

JC: I did take a brief detour. I spent time in the hospitality industry as a general manager of an upscale restaurant and wedding venue, and honestly, it was a great experience. The people side of that world is something special, and it taught me a lot about relationship building, attention to detail and creating experiences that matter to people. But at the end of the day, automotive has always been my main passion and my true north. I couldn't imagine building a career anywhere else. The hospitality experience made me better at what I do now. I just needed to come back to where I belonged.

 

SN: What do you see as the biggest challenges for the motorsports industry today, and where do you see the industry in five years?

JC: Without question, the biggest challenge facing the motorsports and automotive aftermarket industry right now is legislation. The regulatory environment continues to evolve in ways that threaten the hobby and the businesses built around it––from emissions restrictions to vehicle modification laws––and staying ahead of that requires a unified and well-organized industry voice. The good news is that we have exactly that.

Organizations like SEMA and PRI have built incredibly effective government affairs departments that are actively working to protect the rights of enthusiasts, businesses and manufacturers at both the state and federal level. The SEMA Action Network is a powerful grassroots tool that puts real advocacy in the hands of real enthusiasts, and I think that kind of organized engagement is what will define the next chapter of this industry. Looking five years out I am genuinely optimistic. The passion for this hobby is not going anywhere––if anything the next generation of builders and enthusiasts is more engaged than ever. With strong advocacy, continued investment in workforce development and education and an industry that keeps finding ways to tell its story authentically, I see a very bright future ahead.

 

SN: What’s your favorite car-related movie and what do you like about it?

JC: If I had to pick one it would be TV instead of a movie; Top Gear and later The Grand Tour. What I loved about it was that it wasn't just about cars––it was about the culture, the passion and the pure joy of what happens when you put people who genuinely love automobiles in front of a camera and let them be themselves. Clarkson, Hammond and May brought something to automotive entertainment that nobody had done before; they made cars accessible and exciting to people who had never turned a wrench in their life while still being deeply authentic to the enthusiast community. The chemistry was real, the adventures were insane and underneath all the humor and antics was a genuine love for the automobile and what it means to people. That connection between cars and culture is something I think about a lot in my work at AMD.

 

SN: On a Saturday, where can you be found? 

JC: On a Saturday, you can typically find me in one of two places––either on the road with AMD at a car show or event somewhere in the country, which honestly never feels like work because the people and the cars make every trip worth it, or at home with my wife and daughter cheering her on at a soccer game. Family and automotive passion pretty much sum up who I am outside of the office, and I wouldn't have it any other way. The balance keeps me grounded and reminds me every week why building something that lasts––whether it's a classic car or a family moment––is always worth the effort.

 


 

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

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:07

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase.

 

Calling all truck, side-by-side and off-road builders: Are you ready to showcase your talents and creativity on the aftermarket industry's biggest stage?  

 

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is accepting applications for its TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase at the 2026 SEMA ShowNovember 3-6, in Las Vegas

 

What is the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase?  

 

The TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase is a popular feature of the SEMA Show that highlights up to 10 unique truck and off-road builds in a premier spot located on the outside walkway between North and West Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center––known as the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail. The Showcase spotlights the latest trends and products driving the truck and off-road industry and gives builders a rare opportunity to promote their skills to a global audience.   

 

What types of vehicles qualify?   

 

Applications are accepted in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road, electric vehicle/hybrid and CUV/crossover. Each vehicle should demonstrate superior design, craftsmanship and quality. 

Air Lift Company '72 Hilux build from the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase.

 

Air Lift Company won the 2025 TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award for its '72 Toyota Hilux, "Lowlux."

 

What are the benefits?  

 

The SEMA Show is the best-attended trade event in the specialty-equipment industry. Having a vehicle included in the showcase brings invaluable exposure for TORA member companies and puts their work in front of thousands of industry professionals, buyers and the media. It also increases awareness of the builders and manufacturers whose parts are on their vehicle. 

 

All selected vehicles are eligible to win the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award voted on by SEMA Showgoers. The winner will be announced in front of industry peers during the TORA SEMA Show Reception. Also, all vehicles are promoted on TORA's social-media channels and SEMA News up to and during the SEMA Show. 

Air Lift Company accepts the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award.

 

Air Lift Company accepts the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award at the 2025 SEMA Show.

 

Who qualifies to apply?  

 

Qualifying companies must be a current SEMA and TORA member and manufacturers must be exhibiting at the SEMA Show. The cost to participate is $1,500, with $500 of that amount benefiting SEMA Cares––the fundraising arm of SEMA that supports a variety of children's charities.  

 

Enter the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase.

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 08:37

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA Members talking with lawmakers at the SEMA California Rally.

Left to right: Todd Payne, Magnuson Superchargers; Dean Schlingmann, SEMA Garage; Assemblymember Juan Carrillo; Jim Moore, SEMA.


On June 3, SEMA brought together advocates for the annual SEMA California Rally in Sacramento, bringing the voice of the automotive aftermarket directly to leaders of a pivotal state. 

 

From classic and collector vehicles to emissions-compliant performance parts, SEMA advocates and staff helped lawmakers better understand how policy decisions affect real businesses, real customers and the broader enthusiast community. 

 

SEMA members talking with lawmakers at the California Rally.

Assemblymember David Tangipa (left) discusses local racing in the Central Valley with Cameron Carraway, Cam Man Races.

 

The rally brought a strong focus to Leno's Law (SB 1392), a bill sponsored by Jay Leno and SEMA and introduced by Sens. Dave Cortese and Shannon Grove to modernize California's smog-check rules.

 

They also discussed SEMA's bill to reform CARB (SB 1069), which would improve the approval process for aftermarket parts. Finally, advocates raised concerns about the California Energy Commission's tire efficiency rulemaking, which would negatively transform the state's vaunted car culture by limiting the availability of performance tires.  
 

The event featured a legislative luncheon with Sen. Tim Grayson, the sponsor of SB 1069, who spoke with attendees about issues affecting California businesses and the importance of protecting California's automotive heritage. The event concluded with a reception attended by notable lawmakers, including Sens. Bob Archuleta and Steve Choi, and Assemblymembers Juan Carrillo and David Tangipa.

 

SEMA members talk with lawmakers at the SEMA California Rally.

Senator Steven Choi greets Senator Bob Archuleta at the SEMA California Rally.

 

SEMA represents more than 1,500 member companies in California, with the specialty automotive aftermarket supporting nearly 150,000 jobs in the state, and plays a major role in California's economy and automotive culture.

 

More than anything, the California Rally showed the power of the SEMA community when members show up, tell their stories, put a face on the industry and remind lawmakers that the automotive aftermarket is built by passionate people, small businesses and enthusiasts who care deeply about the future of car culture. 


For more information or to sign up for updates, visit semahq.org or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager of state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org

 

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 08:37

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA Members talking with lawmakers at the SEMA California Rally.

Left to right: Todd Payne, Magnuson Superchargers; Dean Schlingmann, SEMA Garage; Assemblymember Juan Carrillo; Jim Moore, SEMA.


On June 3, SEMA brought together advocates for the annual SEMA California Rally in Sacramento, bringing the voice of the automotive aftermarket directly to leaders of a pivotal state. 

 

From classic and collector vehicles to emissions-compliant performance parts, SEMA advocates and staff helped lawmakers better understand how policy decisions affect real businesses, real customers and the broader enthusiast community. 

 

SEMA members talking with lawmakers at the California Rally.

Assemblymember David Tangipa (left) discusses local racing in the Central Valley with Cameron Carraway, Cam Man Races.

 

The rally brought a strong focus to Leno's Law (SB 1392), a bill sponsored by Jay Leno and SEMA and introduced by Sens. Dave Cortese and Shannon Grove to modernize California's smog-check rules.

 

They also discussed SEMA's bill to reform CARB (SB 1069), which would improve the approval process for aftermarket parts. Finally, advocates raised concerns about the California Energy Commission's tire efficiency rulemaking, which would negatively transform the state's vaunted car culture by limiting the availability of performance tires.  
 

The event featured a legislative luncheon with Sen. Tim Grayson, the sponsor of SB 1069, who spoke with attendees about issues affecting California businesses and the importance of protecting California's automotive heritage. The event concluded with a reception attended by notable lawmakers, including Sens. Bob Archuleta and Steve Choi, and Assemblymembers Juan Carrillo and David Tangipa.

 

SEMA members talk with lawmakers at the SEMA California Rally.

Senator Steven Choi greets Senator Bob Archuleta at the SEMA California Rally.

 

SEMA represents more than 1,500 member companies in California, with the specialty automotive aftermarket supporting nearly 150,000 jobs in the state, and plays a major role in California's economy and automotive culture.

 

More than anything, the California Rally showed the power of the SEMA community when members show up, tell their stories, put a face on the industry and remind lawmakers that the automotive aftermarket is built by passionate people, small businesses and enthusiasts who care deeply about the future of car culture. 


For more information or to sign up for updates, visit semahq.org or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager of state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org