Tue, 11/12/2024 - 09:50

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibit space

Next year's SEMA Show will take place in the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 4-7, 2025.


The exhibit space rental agreement for next year's SEMA Show, scheduled for November 4-7, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is now available online here.

Exhibitors are encouraged to submit their agreements early to maximize their planning time for next year's show. Getting a jumpstart with early submission allows exhibitors to begin strategizing their booth design and marketing approach, fresh from this year's event.

Exhibitors: submit your 2025 SEMA Show exhibit space rental agreement here.

Tue, 11/12/2024 - 09:20

By SEMA News Editors

Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh, an automotive restyling shop in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, won the 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, a competition that raises awareness of the customization of new-model vehicles. Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh won the award for its accessory package for the '24 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid.  
 

PRO Cup Challenge Winner

Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh owner and PRO Cup Challenge winner Ray Bedner and the winning '24 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid.

 

Held at the 2024 SEMA Show by the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) SEMA council, the competition challenges automotive restylers to create and install an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The main driver of the program is to show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of designing and offering a marketable package rather than a "one-time" vehicle. 

The winning vehicle is voted on by a panel of judges based on four criteria: marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity, and profitability.   

"The aftermarket gives the ability for people to have options, and it doesn't have to be extremely expensive, and it can be unique," said PRO Chair Colby McLaughlin. "Classic Soft Trim created a unique package with the branding 'northern lights' that really carried throughout the whole build. The judges liked the overlanding aspect, but it also wasn't so hardcore for somebody who just wants a cool look on their vehicle."  

The '24 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid includes: 

  • Alea Leather Interior-Northern Lights  
  • Alea Carbon Fiber Heating Pads 
  • Ironman 4x4 Uber Lite Rooftop Tent  
  • Ironman 4x4 2-in. ATS Suspension Lift Kit 
  • Ironman 4x4 Front Bumper Guard  
  • Ironman 4x4 7-in. Scope Driving Lights  
  • Ironman 4x4 7-in. Scope Driving Light Covers (Amber)  
  • Mickey Thompson Baha Boss A/T Tires (4)  
  • Enkei Overland Wheels (4)  
  • SeatbeltPlanet REWEB Seatbelts – Lime Green  
  • Trim Illusion Mirror and Door Handle Caps 
  • XK Glow LED Undercar Lights  
  • VOXX 10-in. Smart TV Seatback System 
  • Llumar Driver and Passenger Front Window Tint  
  • TSS Roof and Accents Wrap & Badges  

"This award goes to my team, the vendors that helped us along the way, and the dealership that gave us this car. It's been a blast," said Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh Owner Ray Bedner.  
 

PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award

PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award winner, a '24 Toyota Land Cruiser LC250 built by Auto Trim Restyling of Ballwin, Missouri.

 

Auto Trim Restyling from Ballwin, Missouri, won the PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award, voted on by SEMA Showgoers. Auto Trim Restyling customized a '24 Toyota Land Cruiser LC250 that showcased accessories from Avery Dennison, Method Race Wheels, Nitto, ORACLE Lighting, Rigid Industries, Westcott Designs and Wheel Pros.  

Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Auto Trim Design of Utah ('24 Hyundai Santa Fe), Automotive Concepts ('24 Chevrolet Silverado), Keystone Styling ('24 Ford F150), and MARS of Billings ('24 Ford Bronco).  

For information on the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), visit www.sema.org/PRO

Tue, 11/12/2024 - 08:28

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Magazine digital subscription


At the 2024 SEMA Show, SEMA announced its industry-leading SEMA Magazine is now available to everyone for free in a digital format. Claim your subscription now for comprehensive Show coverage, including a look at the week's award winners, top new trends and all the people, cars and products that made a splash at the 2024 SEMA Show.

You can also stay ahead of the industry year-round with in-depth content, industry reports and insights, emerging trends and strategies, interviews with leading figures driving today's automotive aftermarket, and much more. 

How to Claim Your Free SEMA Magazine Digital Subscription

To claim your complimentary digital subscription to SEMA Magazine, follow these steps:

  • Visit the link here.
  • Once on the subscription page, enter the required information before clicking on "SUBSCRIBE." 
  • After, you will immediately receive an email prompting you to verify your email and set up login credentials.
  • Once this is completed, you will have access to all 2024 issues of SEMA Magazine, plus first access to upcoming 2025 coverage.
  • To browse past coverage, select an issue of your choice. For preferred reading on mobile devices, click on any page, select the "T" at the bottom of your screen, and enjoy your issue of SEMA Magazine.

Claim your SEMA Magazine subscription today to be among the first to see the 2024 SEMA Show print coverage next year! For more information, visit sema.org.

Tue, 11/12/2024 - 08:18

TSpagnolahe following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

The following seats are open for this year’s election:

  • Chair-elect (one open seat)
  • Manufacturer (three open seats)
  • Manufacturers Rep (one open seat)

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, please include brief information about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Submit a nomination HERE.

We urge you to take part in the nominations process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

Fri, 11/08/2024 - 14:08

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

US Capitol

 

While the race for president was decided early, other races remain uncalled, particularly for state offices.  

While Republicans have gained control of the U.S. House of Representatives, a number of congressional races are still too close to call. In Maine's 2nd Congressional District, former race car driver Austin Theriault came up short in his bid to unseat Democratic incumbent Rep. Jared Golden. SEMA continues to monitor the remaining uncalled House races.  

Meanwhile, because state legislatures play a crucial role in regulating our industry, SEMA is closely monitoring the results in these races as well.  

State legislatures shape everything from emissions standards and vehicle modifications to safety requirements and small business policies. The 2024 election brought significant shifts in control across key state legislative chambers that directly influence policies impacting the automotive specialty market.  

Toss-up Wins 

Out of the seven chambers initially rated as "toss-ups": 

  • Arizona Senate: Republican 
  • Arizona House: Republican
  • New Hampshire House: Republican 
  • Michigan House: Republican (flip from Democratic control) 
  • Minnesota House: Tied 
  • Pennsylvania House: Democratic
  • Alaska Senate (cross-partisan alliance): Still too close to call 

Party Control of Chambers: 

Republican-held: The New Hampshire Senate, Pennsylvania Senate, and Wisconsin Assembly each remained under GOP control. 

Democratic-held: Control of Maine's House is still too close to call. 

With control shifts in several competitive chambers, we anticipate changes in how states approach automotive policy. SEMA's Government Affairs team will monitor these developments and advocate for industry-friendly policies to protect members' interests and expand opportunities in all 50 states. 

Fri, 11/08/2024 - 14:08

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

US Capitol

 

While the race for president was decided early, other races remain uncalled, particularly for state offices.  

While Republicans have gained control of the U.S. House of Representatives, a number of congressional races are still too close to call. In Maine's 2nd Congressional District, former race car driver Austin Theriault came up short in his bid to unseat Democratic incumbent Rep. Jared Golden. SEMA continues to monitor the remaining uncalled House races.  

Meanwhile, because state legislatures play a crucial role in regulating our industry, SEMA is closely monitoring the results in these races as well.  

State legislatures shape everything from emissions standards and vehicle modifications to safety requirements and small business policies. The 2024 election brought significant shifts in control across key state legislative chambers that directly influence policies impacting the automotive specialty market.  

Toss-up Wins 

Out of the seven chambers initially rated as "toss-ups": 

  • Arizona Senate: Republican 
  • Arizona House: Republican
  • New Hampshire House: Republican 
  • Michigan House: Republican (flip from Democratic control) 
  • Minnesota House: Tied 
  • Pennsylvania House: Democratic
  • Alaska Senate (cross-partisan alliance): Still too close to call 

Party Control of Chambers: 

Republican-held: The New Hampshire Senate, Pennsylvania Senate, and Wisconsin Assembly each remained under GOP control. 

Democratic-held: Control of Maine's House is still too close to call. 

With control shifts in several competitive chambers, we anticipate changes in how states approach automotive policy. SEMA's Government Affairs team will monitor these developments and advocate for industry-friendly policies to protect members' interests and expand opportunities in all 50 states. 

Fri, 11/08/2024 - 13:55

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Cruise Corvette

 

See Featured Vehicles like this Corvette at the SEMA Cruise, today at 4:00 p.m. PST on Convention Center Drive.

 

A long-standing SEMA Show tradition continues today with the return of the SEMA Cruise, this year parading down Convention Center Drive.

The fun won't stop when another edition of the SEMA Show comes to a close. See some of the most creative and innovative vehicles on the planet as they roll out from the SEMA Show campus after the final day of the SEMA Show, this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. PST.

Cars will begin parading out of the Las Convention Center when the SEMA Show closes to the delight of thousands of fans in the crowds. More than 1,200 vehicles will take part in this time-honored tradition at the SEMA Show. This year's route will navigate down Convention Center Drive to the West Hall parking lot. Some enthusiasts show up as early as noon to stake out a spot, so you know you don't want to miss this special event!

  • SEMA Cruise
    • Today, November 8, 4:00 p.m. PST
    • SEMA Show Campus (down Convention Center Drive to the West Hall parking lot).
    • ​​​​​​No cost or RSVP required to attend.

For more information, visit semashow.com.

Fri, 11/08/2024 - 13:40

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Magazine digital subscription


At the 2024 SEMA Show, SEMA has announced its industry-leading SEMA Magazine is now available to everyone for free in a digital format. Claim your subscription now.

Stay ahead of the industry with in-depth content, industry reports and insights, emerging trends and strategies, interviews with leading figures driving today's automotive aftermarket, and much more. 

How to Claim Your Free SEMA Magazine Digital Subscription

To claim your complimentary digital subscription to SEMA Magazine, follow these steps:

  • Visit the link here.
  • It will direct you to the subscription page, where you will enter the required information before clicking on "SUBSCRIBE." 
  • After, you will immediately receive an email prompting you to verify your email and set up login credentials.
  • Once this is completed, you will have access to all 2024 issues of SEMA Magazine, plus first access to upcoming 2025 coverage.
  • To browse past coverage, select an issue of your choice. For preferred reading on mobile devices, click on any page, select the "T" at the bottom of your screen, and enjoy your issue of SEMA Magazine.

Claim your SEMA Magazine subscription today to be among the first to see the 2024 SEMA Show print coverage next year! For more information, visit sema.org.

Fri, 11/08/2024 - 13:15

By SEMA News Editors

Battle of the Builders Top 4

 

The 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Top 4 Finalists: (Left to right) Connor McElvain, Young Guns; Bruce Yarnell, Sport Compact/Import Performance; Rob Lindsay, Off-Road; Noah Alexander, Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck.

 

SEMA has announced the Top 4 finalists in the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers, the aftermarket industry's ultimate vehicle competition celebrating its second decade of providing builders a platform to showcase their craftsmanship and skills to a worldwide audience.

The Top 4 finalists reveal took place on Thursday on the SEMA Show stage in the Silver Lot Booth #81218 outside of Central Hall. Miss the fun? Don't worry: the action will continue today, November 8, with the announcement of the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at 12:00 p.m. PST at the same location. Coverage is also expected on SEMA Live, the new-for-2024 live stream program on YouTube here, or on the SEMA Facebook here.

2024 SEMA BATTLE OF THE BUILDERS TOP 4

HOT ROD/HOT ROD TRUCK
  • Noah Alexander: '68 Dodge Charger Central Hall, #C07
SPORT COMPACT/IMPORT PERFORMANCE
  • Bruce Yarnell: '65 Aston Martin DB5, West Hall, #58135
YOUNG GUNS
  • Connor McElvain: '69 Datsun 2000 Roadster, Silver Lot, #81218
OFF-ROAD
  • Rob Lindsay: '49 Willys Pickup, Central Hall, #24591
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 12:27

By SEMA News Editors

New Products Showcase 24

 

As a hub for cutting-edge technology, fresh trends and groundbreaking products, the New Product Showcase was once again a must-see destination for 2024 SEMA Showgoers. With hundreds of companies displaying their latest advancements, it was the ultimate place to discover the latest tools, components and accessories setting new industry standards that impact your business.

For those who want a second look at a product that caught your eye, you can now browse the thousands of innovative products online at SEMAShow.com. Entered into 18 different categories, users can filter by product type, like off-road/4-wheel-drive, exterior accessories, merchandising display, tools and equipment, and even New Product Winners.

Browse the full New Product Showcase here, and see the full list of 2024 SEMA New Product Award winners below:

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Product
  • WINNER: Revv ADAS Plus (Revv ADAS)
  • Runner Up: Revv ADAS Mechanical (Revv ADAS)
  • Runner Up: Solar Wireless Driving Assistant (Vision Automobile Electronics Industrial)
Collision Repair & Refinish Product
  • WINNER: I-CAR Academy (I-CAR)
  • Runner Up: SagolaSPRAY (Sagola by Elcometer)
  • Runner Up: RTS App (I-CAR)
Electric Vehicle Product
  • WINNER: Formosa VCU (Formosa EV)
  • Runner Up: Papp Plastics & Distributing Ltd.
  • Runner Up: Dakota Digital
Engineered New Product
  • WINNER: Velocity Commander Cruise Control (Dakota Digital)
  • Runner Up: E-LINK Electronic Sway Bar Links (Suspension Direct Inc.)
  • Runner Up: GM LT Engine Air to Water Intercooler Integrated Intake Manifold (ProCharger Superchargers)
Exterior Accessory Product
  • WINNER: CURT Helux 5th Wheel Pin Box (Lippert Curt Luverne Aries Ranch Hand UWS)
  • Runner Up: Boundry TrailBreaker Truck Bed Rack System (Boundry)
  • Runner Up: Arma-Lock (Arma-Lock)
Interior Accessory Product
  • WINNER: Dodge Durango Dual Stripes Shift Knob and Automatic Dial Selector Shift Knob Adapter Set (Speed Dawg Shift Knobs)
  • Runner Up: GRFX-3100 Universal Competition Gauge System (Dakota Digital)
  • Runner Up: WOLFBOX X5 3-Channel Dash Cam (TANLINK TECH)
Merchandising Display
  • WINNER: Interactive Modular P.O.P. Showroom Display System (ORACLE Lighting)
  • Runner Up: Warn Truck Winch Display (Warn Industries)
  • Runner Up: Factor 55 Truck Hardware Display (Warn Industries)
Mobile Electronics Product
  • WINNER: USA-850 (Custom Autosound Manufacturing)
  • Runner Up: Tire & Vehicle Load Monitoring System (Cerebrum Intelligent Tire Technology)
  • Runner Up: Guardian 360 Digital Dash Cam (Auto Meter)
Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product
  • WINNER: ZEON XD 14-S (Warn Industries)
  • Runner Up: Paper Towel Holder (SeaSucker)
  • Runner Up: Toyota Tacoma 05-24 Extreme Duty Tie Rod Assembly (Apex Chassis)
Packaging Design
  • WINNER: Cobra TrailBlazer 500 GMRS Two-Way Radio (Cedar Electronics)
  • Runner Up: Professional Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scan Tool (GEARWRENCH)
  • Runner Up: UltraBright Switch - 9005 / 9006 (Type S)
Performance-Racing Product
  • WINNER: JE Pistons - Patented Dual Gas Ports (Race Winning Brands)
  • Runner Up: Universal Pro-Fab Racing Steering Column (IDIDIT)
  • Runner Up: ORANGETOP H6 Lithium Auto Battery (OPTIMA Batteries)
Performance-Street Product
  • WINNER: Forge Motorsport E-DV (Milltek)
  • Runner Up: Dinan S58 PCU (Holley Performance Brands)
  • Runner Up: 2020-2025 GM 3.0L Duramax LM2, LZ0 Crankcase Ventilation Oil/Water Separation Kit (Pacific Performance Engineering)
Powersports Product
  • WINNER: MLX-5000 Universal Motorcycle Gauge System (Dakota Digital)
  • Runner Up: Front NDPR Brake Kit for Polaris Pro R (Wilwood Disc Brakes)
  • Runner Up: Caliber Rover 360 dollies (Caliber Inc.)
Street Rod/Custom Car Product
  • WINNER: Bolt-In Under-Dash Hydraulic Clutch & Pedal System C1 Corvette (Malwood USA / Under Dash Hydraulics)
  • Runner Up: Tap Shift Switch Module – Part # TSSB0317 (Holley Performance Brands)
  • Runner Up: Gen 5 Magnum Builder Series Plenum Assortment Kit (Vintage Air Inc.)
Tire and Related Product
  • WINNER: TrackAttack Pro (Hoosier Racing Tire)
  • Runner Up: Solus 4S HA32 (Kumho Tire USA)
  • Runner Up: JK Tyre #1 (JK Tyre)
Tools & Equipment Product
  • WINNER: GarageMax 3T Long Reach Electric Floor Jack (ROADTEK)
  • Runner Up: Slimline Billet Jack (Eddie Motorsports)
  • Runner Up: Hunter University (Hunter Engineering)
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product
  • WINNER: Gen 7 2017+ Ford Crew Cab, Short Bed Power Stroke Diesel XXL Fuel Tank (Titan Fuel Tanks)
  • Runner Up: Truck Bed Organization Kit (Tmat Products)
  • Runner Up: Manager Alpha (REDARC)
Wheel and Related Product
  • WINNER: 2024+ Mustang R1 Wheel Kit -Bright Machined Matte Black DecoTech  –  19”x10.5” – Front & 19”x11” - Rear (Ford Performance Parts & Accessories)
  • Runner Up: Ridler 681GGP (The Wheel Group)
  • Runner Up: MT Open 5 (Mickey Thompson Tires and Wheels)