By SEMA News Editors

H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President (center); Matt Daigle, SEMA senior director of communications-government affairs (second from right); and Luis Morales, SEMA Director, vehicle technology and product-dt vehicle technology (right).

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organizations worldwide, has announced SEMA as champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

Announced at the FIA American Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina, SEMA received the award for its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) research initiative, helping the automotive industry better understand how vehicle modifications interact with modern safety technologies. 

As ADAS technologies become standard in modern vehicles, uncertainty remains around how aftermarket modifications, repairs, and recalibration procedures can affect the performance of critical safety systems. SEMA's initiative addresses this challenge through independent, evidence-based research, testing, and industry collaboration. 

The program combines controlled laboratory testing, real-world validation and policy engagement to generate objective data that supports manufacturers, regulators, repair businesses, and vehicle owners.

Through this work, SEMA is helping ensure that life-saving safety technologies continue to function as intended while supporting responsible innovation across the automotive aftermarket.

"Congratulations to SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola and SEMA on being named a Region III Champion in this year's FIA Innovation Challenge," said FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "SEMA's ADAS research initiative demonstrates how Member Clubs and organizations can play an important role in helping industry and policymakers understand emerging technologies, ensuring innovation continues to advance alongside road safety."

 "When meeting current and future mobility challenges, our Member Clubs are our greatest assets, enabling us to support road users with genuine local understanding," said Tim Shearman, deputy president for automobile mobility and tourism. "SEMA is demonstrating how independent research and industry collaboration can provide the evidence, knowledge, and confidence needed to support innovation while maintaining high standards of safety for road users."

"As vehicle technologies become more sophisticated, it is essential that industry, regulators, and consumers have access to clear and reliable information to support informed decision-making," said FIA Region III President Frank Fotia. "Through its ADAS research initiative, SEMA is helping build that understanding, creating practical pathways that support safety, encourage innovation and benefit the wider mobility ecosystem."

"As advanced driver assistance systems become standard across the vehicle fleet, the automotive industry faces a shared responsibility to ensure innovation and safety continue to move forward together," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "By providing independent, evidence-based insights, our research is helping close critical knowledge gaps for manufacturers, policymakers and vehicle owners as they continue to use and interact with these potentially lifesaving systems on the road." 

SEMA joins the Alberta Motor Association (AMA, Canada) and the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA, Jamaica), which have also been named Region III Champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

A global judging panel will now select one Global Winner from these three champions, who will receive their award at FIA General Assemblies week in Shanghai, China, in December.

Now in its third year, the FIA Innovation Challenge has seen member clubs throughout Region III continue to demonstrate leadership and innovation in delivering safer, more sustainable and more affordable mobility solutions. 

By SEMA News Editors

H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President (center); Matt Daigle, SEMA senior director of communications-government affairs (second from right); and Luis Morales, SEMA Director, vehicle technology and product-dt vehicle technology (right).

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organizations worldwide, has announced SEMA as champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

Announced at the FIA American Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina, SEMA received the award for its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) research initiative, helping the automotive industry better understand how vehicle modifications interact with modern safety technologies. 

As ADAS technologies become standard in modern vehicles, uncertainty remains around how aftermarket modifications, repairs, and recalibration procedures can affect the performance of critical safety systems. SEMA's initiative addresses this challenge through independent, evidence-based research, testing, and industry collaboration. 

The program combines controlled laboratory testing, real-world validation and policy engagement to generate objective data that supports manufacturers, regulators, repair businesses, and vehicle owners.

Through this work, SEMA is helping ensure that life-saving safety technologies continue to function as intended while supporting responsible innovation across the automotive aftermarket.

"Congratulations to SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola and SEMA on being named a Region III Champion in this year's FIA Innovation Challenge," said FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "SEMA's ADAS research initiative demonstrates how Member Clubs and organizations can play an important role in helping industry and policymakers understand emerging technologies, ensuring innovation continues to advance alongside road safety."

 "When meeting current and future mobility challenges, our Member Clubs are our greatest assets, enabling us to support road users with genuine local understanding," said Tim Shearman, deputy president for automobile mobility and tourism. "SEMA is demonstrating how independent research and industry collaboration can provide the evidence, knowledge, and confidence needed to support innovation while maintaining high standards of safety for road users."

"As vehicle technologies become more sophisticated, it is essential that industry, regulators, and consumers have access to clear and reliable information to support informed decision-making," said FIA Region III President Frank Fotia. "Through its ADAS research initiative, SEMA is helping build that understanding, creating practical pathways that support safety, encourage innovation and benefit the wider mobility ecosystem."

"As advanced driver assistance systems become standard across the vehicle fleet, the automotive industry faces a shared responsibility to ensure innovation and safety continue to move forward together," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "By providing independent, evidence-based insights, our research is helping close critical knowledge gaps for manufacturers, policymakers and vehicle owners as they continue to use and interact with these potentially lifesaving systems on the road." 

SEMA joins the Alberta Motor Association (AMA, Canada) and the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA, Jamaica), which have also been named Region III Champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

A global judging panel will now select one Global Winner from these three champions, who will receive their award at FIA General Assemblies week in Shanghai, China, in December.

Now in its third year, the FIA Innovation Challenge has seen member clubs throughout Region III continue to demonstrate leadership and innovation in delivering safer, more sustainable and more affordable mobility solutions. 

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, is picking up speed, with strong exhibitor demand and continued growth across key categories, especially in tires, wheels and related service technologies. For professionals focused on this critical segment of the automotive aftermarket, this year's Show offers an expansive look at the latest innovations shaping performance, styling and shop operations.

The SEMA Show's dedicated Global Tires Expo and Wheels and Accessories sections, located in South Hall Lower of the Las Vegas Convention Center, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a central hub for retailers, installers, distributors, and builders. Attendees will have access to a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the needs of today's evolving vehicles and consumers.

The strength of the category is reflected in findings from the annual "SEMA Market Report," which shows that the United States wheels and tires aftermarket is a $6.8 billion market. The report also found that the broader wheels, tires, and suspension category totals $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

From high-performance tires and off-road applications to custom wheels, tire service equipment, balancing systems, alignment technologies, and shop management solutions, the Global Tires Expo and Wheels and Accessories sections will highlight innovations driving advancements across both product performance and operational efficiency. As vehicle platforms diversify and consumer expectations rise, the tire and wheel category continues to see rapid innovation. 

The "SEMA Market Report" also underscores the importance of professional installers within the category. While consumers continue to personalize their vehicles, professional installation remains critical, particularly for off-road tires and wheels, where fitment, vehicle setup and performance requirements often require specialized expertise.

The Global Tires Expo and Wheels and Accessories sections are anchored by brands that have helped define the market and have been exhibiting at the SEMA Show for many years. This includes tire manufacturers such as Atturo, Kenda and Maxxis; iconic wheel brands like Cragar, Konig, MV Forged, Raceline, RTX Wheels and Vision Wheel; and key tire industry technology providers including Autel, Coats, Corghi USA and Hunter Engineering. Their continued presence reinforces the Show's role as a long-standing gathering place for both heritage brands and emerging innovators. 

"Tires and wheels are foundational to vehicle performance, safety, and customization, and they continue to evolve at a rapid pace," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "From advanced tire compounds and all-terrain designs to cutting-edge wheel styling and shop technologies, the tires and wheels sections showcase the full scope of innovation. The combination of legacy brands and forward-looking companies highlights the strength and future of this segment."

Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have already surpassed 1 million net sq. ft., with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience November 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the United States, reflecting strong growth and investment across the automotive aftermarket. 

The 2026 SEMA Show will also feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, tools and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket opportunity.  

Attendees can also explore signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders and FutureTech Studio, offering insight into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of automotive performance and design. 

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, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

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 Ashley Reyes

Women working in any area of the automotive industry have limited time left to secure their spot for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Virtual General Membership Meeting, taking place Wednesday, September 16, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT.

This free, interactive session is a great chance to connect with other women in the industry and gain insight into the programs, tools and community designed for career advancement.

During the meeting, SBN select committee leaders will share updates on:

• Networking opportunities available throughout the year
• Volunteer and leadership pathways within SBN
• Professional development resources, including webinars and recognition programs
• SBN events planned for the 2026 SEMA Show and PRI Show

Open to current SBN members and those interested in getting involved, this meeting will highlight how SBN supports professional growth and helps women build meaningful connections across the industry.

SBN membership is free and open to all women employed by a SEMA member company. If this sounds like you, don't miss your chance to attend the meeting to connect with a powerful, supportive community.

Save your spot here or click below.

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Insta_photos

By Ashley Reyes

Each year, the MPMC Media Trade Conference brings together the people who build leading motorsports brands with the media professionals who tell their stories.

Hosted by the Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC), the event will celebrate its 30th anniversary February 2-4, 2027, at the Embassy Suites in Orlando, Florida, while once again delivering unmatched value to manufacturers by giving them something they rarely receive at traditional trade shows: undivided attention from the media.

By registering now, manufacturers can secure up to 42 half-hour, face-to-face meetings with journalists, editors, photographers, videographers, podcasters and digital creators to discuss future coverage opportunities, including product features, technical content, podcast interviews and long-term editorial relationships.   

Already-registered brands include Auto Meter Products, Inc., QA1 Brands, Edelbrock Group and many more, each of whom will receive a curated meeting schedule in advance of the event.

"We've been going to MPMC for a lot of years; it's my favorite show of the year because you get to talk to so many people," said Tom Longo of Spal Automotive. "The SEMA Show and PRI Show are great, but they are busy and chaotic. When you get a 30-minute meeting with a particular media outlet and that's all you can focus on, you learn something. For us, we've always really enjoyed that relationship side of the event."  

No Costly Booth Setup, Just Focused Connections

Participating manufacturers receive a hotel suite that serves as their exhibit space throughout the conference. Media attendees rotate from room to room for each scheduled meeting, creating an efficient environment for manufacturers to discuss their products and initiatives while learning more about each media outlet's audience and editorial focus.

Manufacturer registration for the Media Trade Conference is open to SEMA MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members. Media registration will open in October. 

To learn more and to register, visit www.mediatradeconference.com. 

For a recap of last year's event, click here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Councils and Networks, in partnership with Blueprint Engines, is bringing business education, technical insights and networking to the Midwest with the pilot "Fuel Your Future" Regional Series. Built for custom car builders, restoration and hot-rod professionals and shop employees, the event will take place at the BluePrint Engines headquarters in Kearney, Nebraska, Friday, September 25, and Saturday, September 26. 

The "Fuel Your Future" Regional Series event is designed as an affordable, casual event where local classic-car industry professionals can sharpen their skills, network with other professionals and learn strategies to strengthen their businesses close to home. Day one will feature a tour of the BluePrint Engines warehouse and an evening networking event, while day two will feature a full day of educational seminars covering modern powertrain integration, advanced manufacturing, workforce development and what's changing in the industry. Between education sessions, attendees can explore vendor displays from local companies serving the aftermarket industry.

If you live or work in the area, bring your team for two days of practical education and strengthening relationships within the regional automotive aftermarket community.    

Guest Registration: $50 per person

Sign up as a Guest.

Vendor Registration: $500 (Includes an 8-foot table)

Sign up as a Vendor.

Aston Martin Testing Vantage RS

In 2024, the Aston Martin Vantage was given a mid-cycle refresh. The updated iteration sports a new front fascia, an updated interior with a 10.25-in. infotainment screen that is similar to the one found on the superior DB12, enhanced aerodynamics, a larger grille and a stiffer body structure. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-L V8 engine was also reworked as part of the facelift, and it now offers 30 percent more output and 15 percent more torque.

However, the company is still not done with the lineup, as an even more exciting version is in the works. Caught in the open on several occasions, it is understood to gain the RS suffix to justify the aerodynamic upgrades and the supposed power boost.

The Aston Martin Vantage RS (name unconfirmed) features a reworked front fascia, with a completely new grille design and a pair of air intakes that remind us of the RTR Mustang. The vents on the sides of the bumper appear to be the same as before, though the splitter is a bit more pronounced and has wings on the sides.

The side skirts appear to be a bit sportier this time, and the wheel arches are just as fat as before. The door mirrors carry over, and so do the vents on the front fenders. One of the biggest changes can be seen at the rear, where a massive wing now decorates the boot lid. The taillights carry over, and the bumper and diffuser now sport a more aggressive design.

Moreover, while the regular Vantage has four round exhaust tips on the sides, this prototype features as many tailpipes, but mounted in the middle of the diffuser. Chances are that the brakes have been slightly uprated, and the same probably goes for the chassis, as customers would expect an RS to be a bit stiffer for enhanced cornering capabilities.

Work under the hood will be done by the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, which is understood to have been upgraded. On the Vantage S, the mill puts out 680 hp and 800 Nm of torque, hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This model hits 62 mph in 3.4 seconds and maxes out at 202 mph.

If rumors prove right, expect more power from the Aston Martin Vantage RS, though figures have yet to be revealed. Some say that the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission will be reworked to better handle the alleged extra power and will continue to channel the output and thrust to the rear wheels, because all versions of the Vantage have a front-mid-engine and rear-wheel-drive layout.

All-Electric, Two-Ton SUV: BMW iX5 M

The BMW X5 is in for a serious redesign both inside and out and beneath the skin, and while plenty of prototypes of this upcoming model have been spotted recently, our shooter at the German Nürburgring racetrack has now caught the new BMW iX5 M.

The prototype features a significantly more aggressive design at the front, due to its larger and sportier-looking air intakes, whereas the grille and headlights are similar to those seen on the rest of the series and one of the design elements that will bring the model into the Neue Klasse era.

Compared to the front fascia, the back end of this tester looks quite mild. The taillights are provisional and so are the reflectors mounted on the bumper. Even if the camouflage suggests otherwise, there is no split-opening tailgate anymore, as the next-generation BMW X5 is losing this practical party trick. And there’s no reason to believe that this won’t apply to the battery-electric model and the hydrogen-powered version(s), too.

Besides the more aggressive face, this tester also featured a set of five-spoke alloys that seem to be on the lighter side of things. Shod in sticky Michelin Pilot Sport rubber for extra grip during fast cornering, the wheels are backed up by the uprated brakes, which comprise the large calipers at the front hugging the cross-drilled discs every time the driver steps on the left pedal. This is another good indicator that this is indeed the BMW iX5 M and not a regular variant of the electric premium midsize crossover.

There’s no information at this point on how powerful the new BMW iX5 M is, but the lesser iX5 60 is expected to feature a bi-motor setup, making 569 horsepower and a huge 147.8 kWh battery pack. The iX7 M70 is understood to boast well over 800 horsepower, and this raises the question of just how punchy the iX5 M will be. It will be answered in due course. Besides the EV power, the next-gen BMW X5 will also feature hydrogen power, gasoline and diesel units and at least one plug-in hybrid.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

By SEMA News Editors

A new private motorsports destination planned for Southern California is expected to combine a purpose-built road course with 40 exclusive garage residences and a range of automotive-focused amenities.

According to the Elsinore Ring website, the planned facility is being developed as a private motorsports country club centered around a 3.2-mile road course with 22 turns, three configurations and an expected FIA Grade 2 standard. The track is being designed for drivers of varying experience levels, with technical corners, sweeping sections, fast straights and passing opportunities.

Boris Said, the project's founder and visionary, recently spoke with AutoWeek about the project, saying the track is to be called "Elsinorering," a nod to the famed Nürburgring. The project's website currently uses the name Elsinore Ring.

In the AutoWeek story, Said described the planned location as along the shores of Lake Elsinore, California, approximately 15 minutes up Interstate 15 from BMW of Murrieta, where he is a co-owner. He also said the facility is planned near Lake Elsinore Raceway motocross track and Skydive Elsinore, with drag boats and waterskiers operating on the lake.

A major component of the development is the Garage Villas. According to elsinorering.com, each building is expected to contain 40 private residences with direct views of the circuit. Each residence is planned with approximately 1,300 sq. ft. of climate-controlled garage space capable of accommodating six to eight vehicles, with integrated lifts for additional capacity.

Above the garage, each planned residence would include a bedroom, private office, gourmet kitchen, luxury bath, 132-inch cinema display and a 26-ft.-wide balcony overlooking the circuit.

A race shop is also planned, with services expected to include vehicle maintenance, tire mounting and changes, track preparation, race setup, diagnostics, fabrication and mechanical repairs.

The planned clubhouse is expected to include a 125-seat restaurant, bar and event center capable of accommodating up to 500 guests, along with wellness facilities and a rooftop pool.

The project also appears to have local support. AutoWeek reported that Gina Gonzalez, director of economic development legislative affairs for the City of Lake Elsinore, said the city is proud of being the action sports capital of the world.

Seppo Mäntylä is listed on the Elsinore Ring website as architect, while Joseph DeJesus is identified as partner and master developer. The website states that the project remains in development and that deposits are not yet being accepted.

For more information, visit elsinorering.com.

Image courtesy of Elsinore Ring

By SEMA News Editors

Cosmo Tires Expands With Kinney's Automotive Destination Store

Cosmo Tires has expanded its presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, market through a branding partnership with Kinney’s Automotive that transforms the Hurst, Texas, location into a 20,000-sq.-ft. Cosmo Tires destination store.

The newly branded facility features updated merchandising and retail elements designed to create a distinct Cosmo Tires experience, the company said. The partnership is part of the company’s Retail Partnership Program, which currently includes more than 20 locations across the United States as well as select international locations.

The companies marked the transformation with a Cosmo Tires Ambush Nites event featuring show cars, music, live graffiti painting, promotions, giveaways and product displays. Cosmo Tires and Kinney’s Automotive plan to host additional Ambush events at the Hurst location, which will also become the site of an annual Cosmo Tires Kool Kat Ambush event. The property’s outdoor space can accommodate more than 500 show cars along with live entertainment, food, vendors and product displays.

"Kinney's Automotive represents exactly the kind of dealer partner we want to grow with," said Mark Lindsey, chief strategy officer of Cosmo Tires. "This isn't simply about putting our name on a building. Together, we're creating a destination where we can sell tires, build the Cosmo Tires brand, engage consumers and bring the automotive community together. Ambush Nites was the first of many collaborations planned, bringing the community together with strong support from local business owners. These partnerships help us elevate the experience we provide and deepen our connection to the community."

For more information, visit cosmotires.com.

Dunlop Tires Appoints Matt Futrelle as Associate VP, TBR

Dunlop Tires North America (DTNA) has appointed Matt Futrelle as associate vice president, TBR.

In this role, Futrelle will be responsible for leading the TBR business, overseeing strategic initiatives, driving business growth and supporting DTNA's commitment to delivering products and service to customers across North America.

Matt brings more than 20 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry, with a proven track record of leadership, operational excellence and business development, the company said. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to build high-performing teams, strengthen customer relationships and execute strategies that deliver sustainable results.

"Matt's leadership experience, industry expertise, and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team," said Darren Thomas, CEO-President, DTNA. "We are confident that his vision and customer-focused approach will help accelerate our growth in the TBR business and strengthen our position in the marketplace."

"I couldn't be more excited to join the Dunlop Tires North America team. We see significant opportunities to increase our participation in the North American Commercial Truck Tire market, bringing even more value to our commercial tire dealer and fleet partners," stated Futrelle. "I am also happy to be a part of expanding the iconic Dunlop brand across North America. The brand holds a special place for me because I have such great memories growing up racing on Dunlop motocross tires."

For more information, visit dunloptires.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA members have until Friday, September 4, to submit nominations for the 2026 SEMA Council & Network Awards, recognizing the individuals and companies making a lasting impact across the automotive aftermarket. Submit a nomination at sema.org/cn-awards.

The Council & Network Awards honor individuals and companies that have made outstanding contributions to their market segments and professional communities during the past year. Deserving candidates include members whose leadership, innovation, dedication, and service are moving the automotive aftermarket forward.

Unlike broader industry awards, the Council & Network Awards recognize those leading progress within specialized market segments. Nominees may include businesses that demonstrate exceptional ethics and service, volunteers and mentors who positively influence others, or individuals making a significant impact within their business.

To be considered, candidates must be active members of the council or network presenting the award. Award recipients will be recognized during their respective council and network events at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas.

Nominations are open for:

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Professional of the Year Award, Vanguard Award
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN): Member Impact Award, #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award, Retailer of the Year
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Person of the Year

Don't miss the opportunity to recognize the members who have helped strengthen your market segment over the past year. If you know a council or network member who deserves recognition, submit your nomination by Friday, September 4 at sema.org/cn-awards.

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, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

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.