By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has announced the result of the 2026-2027 SEMA Board of Directors election, with Jeff Hermann of the MagnaFlow Group elected as a board member.
 

SEMA Board members are industry representatives who volunteer their time to lead and guide the association. They are elected by SEMA-member companies and represent the key membership categories, including, but not limited to, manufacturers, distributors/retailers, manufacturers' representatives and services.
 

The SEMA Board of Directors for 2026-2027 will be as follows: 

Board Officers

• Chair–Melanie White, president, Hellwig Products

• Chair-elect–Norris Marshall, CEO, BluePrint Engines

• Immediate Past-Chair/Secretary–Kyle Fickler, director of business development, ProCharger

• Treasurer–Chris Douglas, president, MCD Enterprises

Board Members

• Bill Bader, president and owner, Summit Motorsports Park

• Rich Butler, CEO, R&R Marketing Consultants

• Jeff Hermann, vice president, strategy and brand, MagnaFlow Group

• Brian Herron, president, OPUS IVS

• Doug Lane, president and owner, Motor State Distributing

• Tim McCarthy, founder/CEO, Hushmat and ZyCoat

• Kelle Oeste, CEO and owner, V8TV Speed & Resto Shop

• Kim Pendergast, CEO, Magnuson Superchargers

• Melissa Scoles, president and CEO, QA1

• Marcus Umlauff, general manager truck, Toyota Motor North America

Outgoing Board Member

• Ted Wentz, CEO, Quadratec

The entire 2026-2027 SEMA Board of Directors and outgoing board member will be honored and recognized during the 2026 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala in Newport Beach, California, on July 24. All SEMA members and industry professionals are invited to join the celebration by purchasing tickets at www.sema.org/gala.

By SEMA News Editors

Spotlighting the skills, creativity and innovation that define the automotive restyling industry, the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting its coveted PRO Cup Challenge at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Applications are open now to PRO members at semapcc.com.

The PRO Cup Challenge is like the "Battle of the Builders" for the automotive restyling world, but instead of awarding builders for one-off creations, competitors' vehicles are judged on strict criteria that reflect the real-world constraints of the restyling market. In a true test of business acumen, automotive restyling shops must design and build a marketable accessory package for a new-model vehicle that takes less than 50 hours to install and costs no more than $14,500.

The goal of the Challenge is to convey to fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the benefits of designing a marketable package rather than a “one-time” vehicle, as well as raise awareness of automotive restyling to a global audience. 

Automotive Concepts won the 2025 PRO Cup Challenge for its '25 Ford F-150, dubbed Black Label 5.0.

Awards and Judging

At the Show, a panel of expert judges will select the PRO Cup Challenge winner based on vehicle marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability. Showgoers can also vote for their favorite build, recognizing it with the People's Choice Award. The competition will culminate on Wednesday, when the winners of both Awards will be announced at the PRO Booth Happy Hour.

Ready to Put Your Skills to the Test?

If you're ready to showcase your expertise, grow your brand, and compete alongside the best in the restyling industry, apply for the PRO Cup Challenge by Friday, July 25, at semapcc.com.  

By SEMA News Editors

What started out as a local photography meetup for car enthusiasts at the Los Angeles River near Cypress Park turned into 72 impounded vehicles by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Trespassing citations were issued as drivers had gathered in the river channel.  

Fox 11 News reported that LAPD said its street-racing task force responded around 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 7, 2026, to the 400 block of N. San Fernando Rd., where drivers had gathered in the concreted channel. 

Drivers who spoke with FOX 11 said they believed they were attending a photo shoot for the Los Angeles car community, not a street takeover. (The news outlet was unable to determine whether the police had classified the event as an actual street race.) 

Alexander Pimienta, whose motorcycle was seized, told FOX 11 the gathering had been promoted online as a river photo shoot against the L.A. . skyline. He said posted “no trespassing” signs were barely noticeable, and that he and other enthusiasts had no harmful intent. 

Some drivers had done burnouts, Pimienta acknowledged, but they left before police arrived. According to him, most were there simply to enjoy themselves, and the situation escalated after a few bad actors drew attention. 

Angel Rodriguez, per FOX11, whose Ford Mustang was also impounded, said he had just arrived when the atmosphere started to shift, with some drivers acting recklessly. 

Both Pimienta and Rodriguez added they were unaware that the river channel was restricted. Rodriguez further suggested that if the area is truly off-limits, city officials should install better barriers to prevent access.  

The two men expressed concern that the impoundments created a significant financial burden, far beyond what they might expect from a simple trespassing ticket. (Pimienta estimated that retrieving a vehicle after a 30-day hold could cost around $3,000.) 

Rodriguez further saw vehicle impoundment as excessive, feeling that issuing citations alone would have been more appropriate, especially since many attendees were surprised to learn they were trespassing.  

For the original story by Andres Gutierrez, visit the FOX LA website. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Logan Bush

By SEMA News Editors

American Off-Road Racing Championship (AORC) organizers have announced that the Vegas to Reno "The Other Way" Legends Rally returns July 22-25.

The Legends Rally is a guided, non-competitive trail ride that allows participants to preview the race course in a controlled, monitored environment and built for those who want to be part of the story, experience the course and enjoy the unique culture of off-road racing without the pressure of competition.

What type of vehicles are allowed on the rally? The Legends Rally is open to street-legal vehicles, cars, trucks, UTVs and motorcycles, welcoming a wide range of vehicles built for adventure. Organizers emphasized that, "This is not a race; it's a shared adventure."

What is included in the Legends Rally? The Vegas to Reno Legends Rally is built to deliver a complete, shared experience, says organizers, both on and off the course. inclduing:

• Hotel Accommodations - Three (3) hotel accommodations are included, with one (1) night in Reno and two (2) nights in Tonopah.
• Breakfasts, Lunches & Dinners - Each evening, drivers and teams will gather for shared dinners that serve as a cornerstone of the rally experience.
• Route & GPS Files - Participants will receive the official Vegas to Reno race route, providing the opportunity to create their own race notes and become familiar with the course ahead of race week.
• Support & Structure - While maintaining a spirit of independence, the rally is organized with clear daily stages, designated overnight stops, and coordinated timing to keep participants moving together along the route.

AORC is the premier desert off-road racing league in North America, created through the unification of Best in the Desert (BITD) and Unlimited Off-Road Racing (UNLTD).

For more information, visit bitd.com/legendsrally/.

Image courtesy of AORC and event organizers

In an industry built on craftsmanship, creativity and relentless passion, few milestones carry the weight of a 125th anniversary. That's precisely what makes Meguiar's latest initiative more than just a promotional campaign a reflection of the very culture that has sustained the brand for over a century.

The newly announced contest offering a trip to the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, in Las Vegas is, on the surface, a compelling incentive. A three-day experience, exclusive access and the opportunity to connect with one of the most recognized brands in automotive care is certainly appealing. But the true significance of this contest lies deeper than the prize itself in storytelling.

Car culture has never just been about the machines, but about the people behind them. The late nights in the garage, the pride in a flawless finish, the generational bonds formed through shared passion, these are the moments that define the enthusiast community.

What makes this approach especially effective is its authenticity. Rather than simply promoting products, Meguiar's is celebrating the experiences those products have enabled. This user-driven narrative not only strengthens brand loyalty but also reinforces the company's position as a genuine participant in car culture, not just a spectator or advertiser.

From a broader industry standpoint, this contest also highlights a growing shift in how brands engage with their audiences. Today's most impactful campaigns are not one-directional; they invite participation, encourage creativity and amplify real voices. In doing so, they build communities, not just customer bases.

There's also a natural alignment with the SEMA Show itself, arguably the epicenter of automotive innovation and enthusiasm. Bringing a fan into that environment as a guest of the brand creates a full-circle moment: from personal garage to global stage.

Ultimately, this contest represents something much larger than a chance to win a trip. It's a reminder of what has kept this industry thriving for generations passion, storytelling and connection. And in an era where digital engagement often feels transactional, initiatives like this prove that authenticity still drives the strongest connections.

For Meguiar's, celebrating 125 years isn't just about looking back. It's about reinforcing the values that will carry the brand and the community it serves into the future.

Full rules and details 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.  

By SEMA News Editors

RealTruck Teams Up With Joe Burrow 

RealTruck––a global aftermarket manufacturer, and a digital destination for truck, Jeep, Bronco and off-road enthusiasts––is collaborating with NFL quarterback Joe Burrow for a customized one-of-a-kind Ford Bronco that will be showcased at his charity Golf Invitational in Cincinnati, Ohio, on May 29, and auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Columbus Auction June 25–27.

One hundred percent of the hammer price from the sale of the custom Bronco will benefit Burrow's nonprofit organization, Joe Burrow Foundation, supporting the organization’s mission to provide resources and support to the underprivileged and underserved. Barrett-Jackson waives all fees and commissions for charity vehicle auctions.

"Collaborating with Joe Burrow Foundation on this custom vehicle build creates a unique platform to unite performance, purpose and community," said RealTruck Vice President of Marketing Lee Riser. "Together, we’re leveraging creativity, innovation and influence to inspire people, bring communities together and generate support for a cause that creates change."

The '22 Ford Bronco was unveiled at his Tiger Tee-Off charity event in Baton Rouge in May, and is customized with RealTruck accessories, a custom wrap, and interior upgrades to complete the Burrow built Bronco. Features of the build include a Steel Bender bumper, RealTruck winch, 3.5-in. Superlift suspension and Havoc roof rack and lasso lights.

"It's really special to be able to give back to the Cincinnati and Baton Rouge communities that have supported me throughout my career," said Burrow. "This custom Ford Bronco build is more than just a vehicle, it's a symbol of the hard work that Ohio and Louisiana are known for. I want to thank RealTruck and the builders who put their craftsmanship into this project. Whoever ends up behind the wheel of this one-of-a-kind ride can rest assured that the proceeds are going to a great cause."

RealTruck Teams Up With Trae Young

NBA star Trae Young has teamed up with RealTruck to transform his RAM TRX pickup into a personalized masterpiece that pays homage to his roots. This one-of-a-kind build isn't just about luxury; it’s a high-performance tribute to the journey that started in Oklahoma.

Crafted by the expert hands of Jim Lewis at ProMotorsports, the truck underwent a comprehensive transformation featuring premium upgrades and personal design cues, including:

RealTruck Performance Accessories: The build is outfitted with the award-winning RealTruck RetraxPro Retractable Tonneau Cover, providing sleek, secure storage for the truck bed and AMP Research PowerStep Vision Steps--adding both utility and a modern tech edge for easy entry and exit.

Additional vehicle protection products such as Husky liners and the all-new Husky Guardian Comfort truck bed and tailgate mat.

Alea Leather Interior: The interior features bespoke Alea leather seats, dash upgrades that include Norman North green and other nods to Trae's high school.

An All-Electric 2-Ton SUV with Extra Performance: The BMW iX5 M

The BMW X5 is due for a major redesign inside and out, and while several prototypes of the upcoming model have been spotted recently, photographers in Munich have now captured what appears to be the new BMW iX5 M for the first time.

The prototype features a significantly more aggressive front fascia thanks to larger, sportier air intakes. The grille and headlights are similar to those seen on other variants and appear to incorporate design elements that will help usher the model into BMW's Neue Klasse era.

Compared to the front fascia, the rear of this test vehicle appears relatively understated. The taillights and bumper-mounted reflectors are temporary units. Despite what the camouflage may suggest, the next-generation BMW X5 is expected to eliminate the split-opening tailgate. The change is also expected to apply to the battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and hydrogen-powered variants.

In addition to its more aggressive styling, the prototype rides on a set of lightweight-looking five-spoke alloy wheels. Equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport tires for enhanced grip, the vehicle also features upgraded brakes, including large front calipers and cross-drilled brake rotors. These details further suggest this is the BMW iX5 M rather than a standard version of the electric premium midsize crossover.

BMW has not released powertrain specifications for the new iX5 M. However, the iX5 60 is expected to feature a dual-motor setup producing 569 hp and a 147.8-kWh battery pack. The iX7 M70 is rumored to produce more than 800 hp, raising questions about the performance potential of the iX5 M. More details are expected closer to launch.

In addition to battery-electric power, the next-generation BMW X5 lineup is expected to include hydrogen-powered, gasoline-powered and plug-in hybrid variants.

More Art of Steel: The Next-Generation Hyundai i20

While it is not a major player in the subcompact hatchback segment, the Hyundai i20 is expected to undergo a complete redesign later this year. Scheduled to arrive at European dealerships in 2027, the new model builds on the current third-generation platform while incorporating Hyundai's evolving Art of Steel design language.

The latest-generation Nexo introduced Art of Steel to production vehicles, shifting away from complex surface details in favor of cleaner proportions and stronger visual presence. One of the design language's key elements is its front lighting signature, and these spy photos suggest a clear departure from the current Hyundai i20.

Art of Steel is also intended to create a more unified design identity across Hyundai's lineup. Like the Nexo, the next-generation i20 appears to replace the traditional grille with a thin, wide opening and a separate lower intake. New alloy wheel designs and more pronounced wheel arches are also expected.

One notable difference between the upcoming model and the current i20 is the window line, which rises more sharply toward the C-pillar. The rear quarter windows appear to have been eliminated in favor of thicker pillars, and Hyundai has also revised the rear lighting design. A small exhaust outlet visible beneath the passenger-side underbody suggests the use of a relatively small-displacement engine.

Despite its size, the engine is capable of towing. The current i20 is rated to tow up to 1,110 kg (2,447 lbs.) with the 1.0L T-GDi engine and manual transmission, while versions equipped with the dual-clutch transmission are rated at 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs.). In some markets, a naturally aspirated 1.2L MPi engine is available exclusively with a manual transmission.

Inside, the '27 Hyundai i20 is expected to feature a simplified dashboard layout, updated trim and revised infotainment technology. One of the most significant changes could be a panoramic glass display that combines the digital instrument cluster and central infotainment screen into a single integrated unit.

Like Hyundai's newer models, the i20 is also expected to replace its four-spoke steering wheel with a more compact three-spoke design. The model may also adopt Hyundai's Pleos Connect infotainment system in place of the current Navigation System.

The next-generation i20 is expected to offer multiple powertrain options, including three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines. A hybrid powertrain is also anticipated, particularly in response to upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations. Reports further suggest that the i20 N could return with some form of electrified assistance.

While the 1.2L MPi engine may remain available in emerging markets, it could be discontinued in Europe. Aside from the i20 N, most versions are expected to be powered by the 1.0L T-GDi engine paired with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia 

By SEMA News Editors

New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte traded the State House for the starting line Friday as she visited New England Dragway during the opening day of the 2026 NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto. 

Accompanied by NHRA President Glen Cromwell, Bob Tasca III and Austin Prock, Ayotte received a behind-the-scenes tour of New Hampshire's premier annual sporting events, getting an up-close look at the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and the teams that compete at speeds exceeding 330 mph. Ayotte spent time on the starting line during qualifying, where she witnessed firsthand the intensity and precision required to launch Funny Cars down the historic track. 

She also met with members of Team Tasca, including Bob Tasca III and the Ford-backed Funny Car organization that calls New England home. The visit provided an opportunity for Ayotte to learn more about the economic and tourism impact generated by the New England Nationals, which annually attracts thousands of fans, racers, and crew members to southern New Hampshire. The event serves as one of the state's largest motorsports attractions and has been a fixture on the NHRA national event schedule for decades. 

Team Tasca, long one of New England's most recognizable motorsports organizations, welcomed the governor as part of her tour. The Rhode Island-based team has deep roots in the region and remains one of Ford Performance's flagship NHRA operations. For Ayotte, the visit offered a unique perspective on the technology, teamwork and dedication that drive professional drag racing, while highlighting the importance of New England Dragway and the NHRA New England Nationals to the region's motorsports community.

Images courtesy of NHRA and Shutterstock

 By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Mazda North American Operations, SEMA Garage is inviting aftermarket suppliers to participate in an upcoming SEMA Garage SoCal measuring session featuring two Mazda vehicles on June 18.
 

Highlighted by the availability of the all‑new '26 Mazda CX‑5, this session is intended to support supplier measurement activities to enable the development and evaluation of new accessory concepts and products.
 

The primary focus of the CX‑5 measuring session will be exterior appearance accessory development. However, Mazda welcomes accessory concepts and ideas for both exterior and interior applications for future consideration.
 

To optimize on‑site time and vehicle availability, a '26 Mazda CX‑50 will also be available during the session. The CX‑50 product focus will emphasize outdoor, adventure and activity‑oriented accessory opportunities.

A Mazda representative will be on-site throughout the session to support supplier engagement, answer questions and provide clarification related to vehicle specifications and accessory development considerations.
 

Reserve your time slot now––space is limited, advanced RSVP is required.

SEMA Garage Mazda Measuring Session
June 18, 2026
1577 Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
View on Google Maps

If you have any questions regarding SEMA Measuring Sessions, email productdevelopment@sema.org.

Images courtesy of Mazda

By Ceramic Pro
 

Ceramic Pro: Driving the Future of Restyling Through Technology

Ceramic Pro has always been known for innovation in automotive protection. Now, Ceramic Pro is pushing the restyling market forward with two cutting-edge advancements: the Elite Dealer Visualizer powered by DreamRide.AI and the launch of Ceramic Pro Shift Color Paint-Protection Film (PPF). Together, they are bridging the gap between consumer imagination and shop execution in a way the industry has never seen before.
 

The Elite Dealer Visualizer: Powered by DreamRide.AI

One of the biggest challenges in vehicle restyling has been helping customers see their vision before it becomes reality. The Elite Dealer Visualizer solves this challenge by offering the most advanced web-based tool in the industry.

Customers can preview window tint and more than 150 colors and finishes of Ceramic Pro Shift Color PPF on 100-plus popular vehicle models, all without leaving a dealer's website or ceramicpro.com. Unlike other visualizers that look unrealistic, run slowly or require expensive hardware, DreamRide.AI delivers speed, realism and accessibility on any device.

The platform even includes three unique lighting environments (daylight, garage and dusk) so users can see how their car will look in real-world conditions from the comfort of their mobile phones. And for dealers, the Visualizer isn't just a tool for imagination. It's optimized for lead generation, capturing customer inquiries directly and turning browsing into business.
 

Ceramic Pro Shift: Color Without Compromise

The launch of Ceramic Pro Shift marks a milestone for PPF. Traditionally, drivers had to choose between style and durability; vinyl wraps offered customization but lacked resilience, while clear PPF provided defense but no flair.

Shift changes everything by combining protection and personalization. With more than 120 bold colors and finishes, Ceramic Pro Shift lets customers restyle their cars without sacrificing the strength of proven PPF. Gloss, matte, metallic, pearl, color flip, iridescent and carbon, all backed by Ceramic Pro's reputation for quality.

Meeting the Market Where It's Headed

The timing couldn't be better. Restyling is no longer niche--it's mainstream. As vehicles stay on the road longer, consumers are investing in ways to make them uniquely their own. The automotive aftermarket in the United States is now valued at more than $500 billion, with restyling products and digital tools driving significant growth.

What sets Ceramic Pro apart is its ability to connect this consumer demand with modern, web-based experiences. The Elite Dealer Visualizer is more than a sales tool; it bridges the gap between curiosity and commitment. By combining Shift Color PPF with a seamless digital preview experience, Ceramic Pro ensures customers not only want the product but feel confident buying it.

A Seamless Experience for Consumers and Dealers

For consumers, this means confidence and clarity: the ability to experiment with colors, finishes and tint until they find the perfect look, then connect directly with a trusted local Elite Dealer.

For shops, it means differentiation in a crowded marketplace. By offering a digital-first experience, Elite Dealers can capture more leads, close more sales and deliver the elevated service today's car owners expect.

Restyling Reimagined

With the Elite Dealer Visualizer and Shift Color PPF, Ceramic Pro is not just keeping pace with the restyling movement; it's leading it.

Restyle. Protect. Experience. The future of automotive personalization starts with Ceramic Pro Elite Dealers.

For more information, visit ceramicpro.com.