By Ashley Reyes

Precision Replacement Parts (PRP) has been among trusted names in the automotive glass industry since 1986. Just browse through their website and you will find an extensive selection of molded EPDM Rubber, PVC and HDPE-based plastics, and various stamped and extruded metal products for the classic and late-model industries.  

In 2024, PRP earned industry recognition when their '73-'87 GM Truck Complete Vent Assembly was voted Best New Exterior Product in the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

SEMA News recently spoke with PRP Marketing Manager Derek Churchyard, who shared the story behind the vent assembly, and how other restoration parts manufacturers can benefit from displaying their products in the ARMO Hot Products Showcase at the 2025 Spring Carlisle in April.   

Q: Can you tell us about what inspired the product's creation?  

DC: The vent windows on the '73–'87 square-body trucks have always been some of the most challenging components to rebuild. For the past seven years, we've offered a rebuild service for these vent assemblies, and it's been incredibly popular since there were no brand-new aftermarket replacements available. We recognized the need for a high-quality, new option. However, designing and tooling these vents was particularly tricky due to the bends in the assembly. It took three years of research, development and extensive customer testing to perfect them, and we're proud to have set a new standard in the industry. 

Precision Replacement Parts' vent assembly was voted Best New Exterior Product in last year's SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Q: Why did you decide to showcase the vent assembly at Spring Carlisle instead of PRP's other products? 

DC: Due to the immense popularity of the square-body trucks and the significant gap in the market for these vent assemblies, we knew this product deserved as much exposure as possible. Showcasing them allowed us to highlight how we were filling a long-standing void with a high-quality solution that enthusiasts had been waiting for. 

Q: What did winning the Best New Exterior Product award mean to you and your team? 

DC: Winning this award was a powerful validation of the hard work, dedication and attention to detail that our team put into developing this product. It reinforced that our efforts to create a high-quality solution for square-body enthusiasts were truly making an impact in the industry. 

Q: Is PRP planning to display anything in this year's Hot Products Showcase? If so, what are you bringing? 

DC: Yes, this year we're showcasing the rear window original slider gasket for the square-body trucks—another product that has been missing from the market. Just like with our vent assemblies, we saw a need for a high-quality solution, especially since many enthusiasts prefer the original slider option. 

Q: Why would you recommend other ARMO members participate in the 2025 Showcase? 

DC: Participating in the Showcase is a fantastic opportunity for ARMO members to gain valuable exposure for their new products. It's a great way to connect with industry professionals, showcase innovation and reach a broader audience that appreciates quality restoration parts. 

2025 ARMO Hot Products Showcase Product Entries Now Open

Registration is now open to ARMO members who would like to have their products included in the Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, April 23-25.

Program participation is free to ARMO members, and manufacturers are only responsible for shipping their products in advance with a return label or dropping off and picking up their products on-site.  

During the event, Carlisle attendees will vote for their favorite products in the categories of exterior, interior, engine, accessory item, drivetrain/brakes/suspension and People's Choice. Winners will be recognized at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas in November.  

Click here to start the product submission process. 

For more information on the ARMO Hot Products Showcase, visit here. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Want to help? LEARN MORE HERE, AND SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Want to help? LEARN MORE HERE, AND SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

'26 Porsche 718 Cayman EV: A New Era of Performance and Sustainability

Porsche is poised to make a significant impact with the upcoming '26 Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman EV. This all-electric iteration of the iconic 718 promises to blend the brand's storied performance heritage with cutting-edge technology and sustainability, according to the manufacturer.

The Porsche 718 series, which includes the Boxster and Cayman, has long been celebrated for its exceptional handling, lightweight construction and thrilling driving dynamics. The '26 Porsche 718 EV aims to uphold this legacy while embracing the advantages of electric powertrains, according to SEMA News sources. While the open-top 718 Boxster has been photographed in prototype guise various times since 2023, these are the first shots of its tin-topped stable mate, the 718 Cayman.

The design of the '26 Porsche 718 EV appears to reflect modern interpretations of the classic 718 silhouettes. Expect to see sleek lines, a low stance and an aerodynamic profile that enhances efficiency and performance. While the overall shapes may remain familiar, the EVs will incorporate unique design elements that distinguish them from their gasoline-powered predecessors, such as a closed-off front grille and distinctive lighting signatures, sources said.

At the heart of the '26 Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman will be an electric powertrain. While specific details are still under wraps, industry insiders anticipate a dual-motor setup that will provide all-wheel drive and instantaneous torque delivery. This configuration could enable Boxster and Cayman to achieve 0-60-mph times in the realm of 3 seconds or less.

Porsche is also expected to utilize advanced battery packs that offer a balance of high energy density and lightweight construction, ensuring that the vehicle remains agile and responsive. Additionally, fast-charging capabilities will likely be a priority, allowing drivers to recharge their vehicles quickly and efficiently during long journeys.

Inside, the cabin will likely feature high-quality materials, an ergonomic design and a driver-focused layout. A digital cockpit with a large infotainment display will provide access to a range of connectivity features, navigation and performance data, insiders said.

Porsche is also expected to integrate advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and convenience. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automated parking will likely be available.

As part of Porsche's stated commitment to sustainability, the '26 718 EV will likely include the use of sustainable materials in the interior, energy-efficient manufacturing processes and a focus on recyclability will all contribute to a more environmentally friendly vehicle.

Facelifts Coming for Mercedes-AMG GLE and GLS

Mercedes-AMG GLE

With updates already on the way for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS, SEMA News sources recently caught a glimpse of the redesigned AMG variants of both models.

The Affalterbach manufacturer is working on a second facelift for their GLE midsize and GLS full-size SUVs to prolong the life span of the models, likely a result of the ongoing debate about the end or open end for internal-combustion engines in Europe and elsewhere, according to insiders.

Mercedes-AMG GLS

The new spy shots indicate that modifications will be limited to a few cosmetic changes. As seen in these new images, the inner graphics of the front and rear lamps are clearly visible and are reminiscent of parent company's Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star.

These minor changes could be paired with a small makeover of the interior, plus updated safety-assistance systems and a revised infotainment system, including bigger screens.

New exhaust regulations also suggest that there will be no changes under the hood, sources said.

By Ashley Reyes

Ultra4 racecars have undergone remarkable advancements over the years, evolving from dedicated rock crawlers struggling to reach 60 mph to high-performance racecars capable of exceeding 130 mph. These intricate machines are now known for their ability to dominate in some of the most thrilling desert races, short course competitions and high-stakes endurance challenges that exist today.  

On Thursday, March 6, at 9:00 a.m. PST, the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host a Coffee and Conversation virtual event discussing the evolution of the Ultra4 racecar. Attendees will engage in open dialogue with featured guests who are experts in the Ultra4 racing field, providing a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge with others and gain new perspectives.

During the conversation, attendees will connect with:  

• Matt Harris -- vice president and general manager, Method Race Wheels/Custom Wheelhouse 
• Brian McCroskey -- senior manager-special projects, Bilstein/Thyssenkrup 
• Mike Messina -- general manager-racing division, Brembo 
• Jeremy Purick -- Rock Krawler Suspension
• Jason Weidman -- brand manager-wheels, Wheel Group 

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations offer a great chance to network virtually with professionals in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake sectors. You'll be able to share your insights, discuss common challenges and build valuable relationships with industry peers. 

Register here.

From SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is requesting that its members sign a letter to federal lawmakers explaining why Congress should pass a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver for California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation. Congress has an opportunity to stop California's disastrous regulation, which requires 100% of new cars, SUVs and small trucks sold in California and 11 other states to be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2035. 

Click below to act now and add your name to the list!

SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

Congress is owed the opportunity to determine whether a single state should be empowered to enact a heavy-handed policy that would have broad, national implications for the economy, the entire automotive-aftermarket industry and consumers.

If not stopped by Congress, the Clean Air Act waiver that the EPA granted in December would enable California to implement its EV mandates and ban internal-combustion-engine vehicles. Congress, though, can use the CRA to nullify the waivers, thus preserving vehicle choice for consumers and halting a policy that would have a disastrous effect on the automotive aftermarket industry.

To sign your name to this important cause, complete SEMA's quick form here.

From SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is requesting that its members sign a letter to federal lawmakers explaining why Congress should pass a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver for California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation. Congress has an opportunity to stop California's disastrous regulation, which requires 100% of new cars, SUVs and small trucks sold in California and 11 other states to be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2035. 

Click below to act now and add your name to the list!

SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

Congress is owed the opportunity to determine whether a single state should be empowered to enact a heavy-handed policy that would have broad, national implications for the economy, the entire automotive-aftermarket industry and consumers.

If not stopped by Congress, the Clean Air Act waiver that the EPA granted in December would enable California to implement its EV mandates and ban internal-combustion-engine vehicles. Congress, though, can use the CRA to nullify the waivers, thus preserving vehicle choice for consumers and halting a policy that would have a disastrous effect on the automotive aftermarket industry.

To sign your name to this important cause, complete SEMA's quick form here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA member company employees have until March 1 to apply to reduce their student debt through the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Awards of $2,000 are available to eligible individuals who apply at sema.org/loan-forgiveness.

"Student loans can be a heavy burden for recent graduates," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Jose Escobar. "The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program addresses this by giving our members an exclusive opportunity to ease the financial pressure tied to their college education, enabling them to focus more on their careers."

Eligibility requirements include:

• Be currently employed by a SEMA-member business
• Demonstrate a passion for the automotive hobby and career
• Possess a degree or certificate from a college, university or career technical/trade school in the United States or Canada
• Have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is offered as a benefit of SEMA membership. Learn more and apply at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness. Questions can be directed to SEMA manager of recognition programs at josee@sema.org or 909-378-4860.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

An update from the PRI Washington, D.C., office on March 25, 2025:

HB 2738 was not set for a hearing by the Oregon Legislature’s Working Session deadline on March 21, 2025. The next critical deadline is April 9, 2025, for the First Chamber deadline. If the bill misses this deadline, it is even less likely to move forward. SEMA and PRI thank industry members and the SEMA Action Network for their efforts supporting this important cause.   

The following article was originally published on February 24, 2025:

A SEMA- and PRI-opposed bill in Oregon threatens to shutter an iconic local race track by regulating the use of certain fuels. 

Oregon lawmakers are considering House Bill 2738, which aims to prohibit the use of leaded fuel at race tracks located within cities with populations of 500,000 or more, starting January 1, 2026. The only facility that would be impacted by the proposal is Portland International Raceway (PIR), the 63-year-old track that has hosted champions including Mario and Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Álex Palou. The bill, introduced by State Rep. Travis Nelson (D), sparked a heated debate among legislators, community members and racing enthusiasts, with SEMA/PRI testifying on the detrimental impact that closing the track would have on the local economy (more on this, below). 

Misrepresented Health Concerns Drive Legislation 

Rep. Nelson, who represents House District 44 in Northeast Portland, cited supposed health risks associated with leaded fuel emissions, relying on misrepresented data from a 2023 Guardian report and a Cornell University study, which showed that lead exposure could extend up to 25 miles from its source and significantly impact children's test scores and elderly mortality rates. However, these studies blatantly show that the presence of lead in ambient air has decreased so much that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has waived the lead monitoring requirement for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality since 2003. 

Some lawmakers, specialists and advocates argue that emissions from leaded fuel at PIR are minimal at best. This includes Troy Abercrombie, a drag racer and natural resource conservationist. 

"The amount of leaded fuel emissions from this activity would be minimal, even if every single vehicle used leaded race gas," Abercrombie testified, who also pointed out that many racers are already transitioning to alternative fuels like E85 and methanol. 

Rep. Emerson Levy (D) similarly expressed concerns about the correlation between lead exposure and lower test scores. "The DEQ did a study in 2022 that showed no lead was above the ambient air quality standards... We need to be very careful with causation and correlation when making state laws," Rep. Levy stated.  

Keith DiBrino, a board advisor for the Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association, echoed these sentiments. "There's already been a transition moving towards unleaded race gas. The last thing we need [in this industry] is more regulation," DiBrino said. 

Economic Impact on Local Businesses 

In a letter to the committee, Victor Muñoz, SEMA and PRI's senior manager for state government affairs, emphasized the substantial economic contributions of PIR operates with a $2 million budget and would face substantial revenue losses of more than $600,000 if the bill is enacted, risking its closure. Major racing events hosted at PIR, such as IndyCar, NASCAR, the Rose Cup and the Oregon Motorcycle Road Race Association's events, generate more than $32 million annually for Portland's economy. The potential loss of these events would impact local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism. 

Muñoz also highlighted the economic impact of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, which supports grassroots racing enthusiasts in Oregon to the tune of more than $3 billion in economic impact and supports more than 14,000 jobs.  

Lewis Fitzgerald Holland, a resident of the Portsmouth neighborhood, echoed the value of the track, which extends beyond dollars: "I believe that Rep. Nelson and some of the other backers of this bill are well-intentioned, but they have been led astray... PIR is woven into the fabric of North Portland, and this bill would be a poison pill for the future of the track."  

Next Steps Hinge on Committee 

Amendments to the bill were submitted in committee that extend the prohibition date to 2029, allowing PIR time to explore alternative events to offset lost revenue.

As the debate continues, the Oregon House Committee will consider the testimonies and data presented by both supporters and opponents of the bill prior to voting on the bill in a future working session. The outcome will determine whether PIR will need to phase out leaded fuel by the end of the decade, dealing a devastating blow to the local grassroots racing community. 

For more information, please contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.  

Photo courtesy of PIR, Facebook

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

An update from the PRI Washington, D.C., office on March 25, 2025:

HB 2738 was not set for a hearing by the Oregon Legislature’s Working Session deadline on March 21, 2025. The next critical deadline is April 9, 2025, for the First Chamber deadline. If the bill misses this deadline, it is even less likely to move forward. SEMA and PRI thank industry members and the SEMA Action Network for their efforts supporting this important cause.   

The following article was originally published on February 24, 2025:

A SEMA- and PRI-opposed bill in Oregon threatens to shutter an iconic local race track by regulating the use of certain fuels. 

Oregon lawmakers are considering House Bill 2738, which aims to prohibit the use of leaded fuel at race tracks located within cities with populations of 500,000 or more, starting January 1, 2026. The only facility that would be impacted by the proposal is Portland International Raceway (PIR), the 63-year-old track that has hosted champions including Mario and Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Álex Palou. The bill, introduced by State Rep. Travis Nelson (D), sparked a heated debate among legislators, community members and racing enthusiasts, with SEMA/PRI testifying on the detrimental impact that closing the track would have on the local economy (more on this, below). 

Misrepresented Health Concerns Drive Legislation 

Rep. Nelson, who represents House District 44 in Northeast Portland, cited supposed health risks associated with leaded fuel emissions, relying on misrepresented data from a 2023 Guardian report and a Cornell University study, which showed that lead exposure could extend up to 25 miles from its source and significantly impact children's test scores and elderly mortality rates. However, these studies blatantly show that the presence of lead in ambient air has decreased so much that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has waived the lead monitoring requirement for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality since 2003. 

Some lawmakers, specialists and advocates argue that emissions from leaded fuel at PIR are minimal at best. This includes Troy Abercrombie, a drag racer and natural resource conservationist. 

"The amount of leaded fuel emissions from this activity would be minimal, even if every single vehicle used leaded race gas," Abercrombie testified, who also pointed out that many racers are already transitioning to alternative fuels like E85 and methanol. 

Rep. Emerson Levy (D) similarly expressed concerns about the correlation between lead exposure and lower test scores. "The DEQ did a study in 2022 that showed no lead was above the ambient air quality standards... We need to be very careful with causation and correlation when making state laws," Rep. Levy stated.  

Keith DiBrino, a board advisor for the Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association, echoed these sentiments. "There's already been a transition moving towards unleaded race gas. The last thing we need [in this industry] is more regulation," DiBrino said. 

Economic Impact on Local Businesses 

In a letter to the committee, Victor Muñoz, SEMA and PRI's senior manager for state government affairs, emphasized the substantial economic contributions of PIR operates with a $2 million budget and would face substantial revenue losses of more than $600,000 if the bill is enacted, risking its closure. Major racing events hosted at PIR, such as IndyCar, NASCAR, the Rose Cup and the Oregon Motorcycle Road Race Association's events, generate more than $32 million annually for Portland's economy. The potential loss of these events would impact local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism. 

Muñoz also highlighted the economic impact of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, which supports grassroots racing enthusiasts in Oregon to the tune of more than $3 billion in economic impact and supports more than 14,000 jobs.  

Lewis Fitzgerald Holland, a resident of the Portsmouth neighborhood, echoed the value of the track, which extends beyond dollars: "I believe that Rep. Nelson and some of the other backers of this bill are well-intentioned, but they have been led astray... PIR is woven into the fabric of North Portland, and this bill would be a poison pill for the future of the track."  

Next Steps Hinge on Committee 

Amendments to the bill were submitted in committee that extend the prohibition date to 2029, allowing PIR time to explore alternative events to offset lost revenue.

As the debate continues, the Oregon House Committee will consider the testimonies and data presented by both supporters and opponents of the bill prior to voting on the bill in a future working session. The outcome will determine whether PIR will need to phase out leaded fuel by the end of the decade, dealing a devastating blow to the local grassroots racing community. 

For more information, please contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.  

Photo courtesy of PIR, Facebook