SEMA and the automotive aftermarket recently lost two longtime industry leaders, Joan Weiand and Bill Wagner, whose careers spanned decades of service to the industry.
Joan Weiand, SEMA Hall of Fame, 1995
Joan Weiand, the SEMA Hall of Famer and longtime leader of Weiand Automotive Industries, has reportedly passed away. Weiand was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 1995, which was 20 years after her husband, Phil Weiand, was inducted in 1975.
Joan Weiand joined her husband's business, Weiand Automotive Industries, after they married in 1964. She left her job as a keypunch operator to work part-time in the company office, where her responsibilities quickly grew. She eventually became involved in nearly every aspect of the business, including advertising, production, product development and manufacturing scheduling.
When Phil passed away in 1978, Joan took over the company and served as its president for 20 years. Her experience and knowledge of the business positioned her to carry on the company's legacy while navigating the challenges of leading an automotive aftermarket manufacturer.
"You find yourself in a situation where you must go forward," she once said. "It's sink or swim, and I am not one to sink."
Beyond Weiand Industries, Joan was a dedicated supporter of the automotive aftermarket and SEMA. In 1984, she established the SEMA Scholarship Fund in memory of Phil with a $10,000 donation. The fund reflected her commitment to encouraging young people to pursue careers in the industry.
Phil founded Weiand Automotive in the early days of hot rodding, producing cylinder heads and intake manifolds for Flathead V8s before expanding into a broad range of speed equipment. A racer himself, Phil continued pursuing his passion for cars despite being paralyzed by polio.
Joan remained active in SEMA after her retirement and continued attending the annual SEMA Banquet (now known as Industry Honors).
Weiand Industries is now owned by Holley Performance Products.
Bill Wagner, Former SEMA Board Member and SEMA Show Chairman
W.S. "Bill" Wagner, a longtime automotive aftermarket sales and marketing executive and former SEMA Show chairman, has passed away. His career in the aftermarket spanned more than four decades, including 16 years with Winfield Consumer Products/Husky Liners.
Wagner entered the aftermarket in 1976 after working in the corrugated packaging industry. He joined Deflecta-Shield Corp. as a sales manager and helped grow the company from less than $1 million in sales to more than $28 million. He later served as vice president of sales and marketing for DFM Corp., Deflecta-Shield's parent company.
After becoming a marketing consultant in 1988, Wagner worked with companies including Auto VentShade and EGR Inc., developing sales and marketing programs. He later focused on the lifted off-road vehicle market before returning to plastic products and joining Husky Liners in 1994.
Wagner served on the SEMA Board of Directors and various committees, and was also chairman of the SEMA Show. He was also a U.S. Army veteran who served with NATO forces in Europe during the late '60s.
Wagner was known throughout the industry for his expertise in sales and marketing and his longstanding commitment to SEMA and the aftermarket.
SEMA sends its condolences to the Weiand and Wagner colleagues, friends and families.
SEMA Show exhibitors have an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of the automotive aftermarket by participating in the 2026 SEMA Show Student Program, taking place on Thursday during the November 3-6 event in Las Vegas.
Each year, the Student Program invites more than 1,000 college students to the SEMA Show to explore the wide range of aftermarket career paths from manufacturing and R&D to engineering, marketing and sales, business ownership, finance and more. Exhibitors who participate in the SEMA Show Student Program will help cultivate the next generation of industry leaders, educate students about the size and opportunities of the industry and build relationships that may lead to future hires.
Opportunities to get involved include:
SEMA Show Student Program Networking Breakfast
Thursday, November 5 | 8:00 AM-9:30 a.m. PST | LVCC, West Hall, W326
Meet hundreds of students pursuing automotive careers during the SEMA Show Student Program Networking Breakfast. This event gives exhibitors a chance to meet face-to-face with emerging talent, build brand awareness and share industry knowledge with students who are passionate about contributing to the future of the industry.
Participation is free; the event simply requires 90 minutes from a company representative. No setup time or marketing materials are required.
Gear-Up Girl Networking Event (Reserved for Women)
Thursday, November 5 | 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. PST | West Hall, W256
Many female students are seeking guidance, encouragement and insight as they begin their careers. The Gear Up Girl Networking Event gives female aftermarket professionals an opportunity to share their career journey, provide mentorship and help inspire the next generation of female leaders in the industry.
During the event, SBN will honor one student with the Jessi Combs Rising Star Award, presented by SBN and the Jessi Combs Foundation.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
With the Japanese Classic Car Show (JCCS) just around the corner, the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) is looking forward to joining vehicle builders, restorers, manufacturers and industry professionals at Marina Green Park in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Recognized as the premier gathering for kyusha enthusiasts and fans of classic Japanese automobiles, JCCS celebrates the vehicles, craftsmanship and culture that continue to inspire generations of enthusiasts worldwide. As part of its ongoing commitment to support the restoration industry, ARMO will be on-site with a booth to connect with attendees and share valuable industry resources.
Booth Vehicle Spotlight: Bob Russell's '73 Datsun 240Z
Each year, ARMO selects a builder to showcase a vehicle in its booth at JCCS. This year, ARMO selected Bob Russell and his award-winning, beautifully restored '73 Datsun 240Z.
Russel is the Datsun's original owner and purchased it new following his return to the US from his 1972 Navy deployment to Vietnam. The vehicle's history includes:
1973-1990: Served as Russel's daily driver.
2018-2019: Went through a ground-up, bare-metal home garage restoration.
2021: First Place Stock Class Winner, ZCON
2022: First in Class, Hillsborough Concours d'Elegance
2025: First Place, Huntington Beach Concours d'Elegance
Attending JCCS? Visit the ARMO Booth to see the Datsun up close, connect with ARMO leaders and discover resources designed to support automotive restoration shops and manufacturers.
With thousands of media members from around the world looking for the latest automotive trends, technologies and products at the 2026 SEMA Show––November 3-6 in Las Vegas––exhibitors still have time to connect with journalists and build awareness ahead of the event.
Below are no-cost tools and resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors:
Post press releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center: By posting news releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center, exhibitors can ensure reporters looking for Show-related news do not miss important announcements. Posting to the Online Media Center can also generate coverage through SEMA publications and social media channels. Releases can be submitted at semashow.com/press-release.
Host a press conference: Exhibitors announcing a new product, vehicle or service at the SEMA Show can generate additional media interest by hosting a press conference in their booth. Press conference requests can be submitted through the Exhibitor Dashboard.
Vehicle Reveal (New for 2026): Exhibitors unveiling a vehicle build can submit a Vehicle Reveal Form through the Exhibitor Dashboard to have their reveal included in a schedule shared with credentialed media.
Promote participation on social media: Exhibitors can access free graphics, copy templates, logos and promotional tools––all sized and ready to post––at semashow.com/digital-tools.
Create a press release or press kit: In addition to distributing materials in their booths, exhibitors can place physical press kits and news releases in the SEMA Show Media Center, located in Room S219 on the Skybridge between South and Central Halls, at no cost.
Additional exhibitor resources are available in the Exhibitor Service Manual at semashow.com/esm.
Questions about public relations opportunities can be directed to the SEMA Show Public Relations team at pr@sema.org.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
The SEMA Show, this year November 3-6, in Las Vegas, may be familiar to many in the automotive aftermarket. (Still need to register? Do so here.) But the Show is just one part of what comes with being part of the industry's largest community of automotive professionals, builders and enthusiasts.
SEMA connects the people who make the automotive aftermarket what it is. From manufacturers and retailers to builders, technicians and enthusiasts, SEMA brings together a global community united by a passion for cars, trucks and everything in between.
Being part of the SEMA community means connecting with the people, ideas and opportunities shaping the industry all year long. The 2026 SEMA Show offers one of the biggest opportunities to experience that community in person.
From industry-leading competitions and educational programming to art exhibits, livestream coverage and emerging vehicle technologies, the following activations are among the highlights planned for this year's SEMA Show.
2026 SEMA Show Features and Activations
New for 2026: Powersports/Side-by-Side (SxS)/Lifestyle Section
The Powersports/SxS/Lifestyle section will be anchored in the West Hall, with access to adjacent parking lots for dynamic outdoor activations and vehicle demonstrations.
The Show floor will undergo an evolution to group trucks, off-road and powersports together, reflecting the "total package" approach enthusiasts take toward their adventure builds. The section will highlight a diverse range of categories, including:
Motorcycles and dirt bikes
Side-by-sides
Related adventure lifestyle gear and accessories
New and returning manufacturers are already showing excitement for the expanded section. "We're proud to represent KYT Helmets at SEMA 2026," said TJ Jira, CEO of KYT Americas. "We believe it's an opportunity to elevate powersports and bring more visibility to our brand in the market."
From the Toyo Tires Treadpass to hundreds of booth and feature vehicles across the campus, the creativity and craftsmanship set for display this year will inspire and impress any automotive aftermarket enthusiast.
SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care
Now in its 13th year, the famed SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care competition continues to stand as the automotive aftermarket's premier platform for custom builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show.
New for 2026: The SEMA Battle of the Builders will expand to include motorcycles, introducing an additional set of awards recognizing the Top 3 standout bike builders and an overall motorcycle champion with the new SEMA BOTB: Bike Builder Shootout category.
For 2026, the competition will again feature its four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns.
Class winners will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall BOTB champion.
SEMA Education offers Showgoers a dynamic experience that complements the high-energy learning environment found throughout the Show floor. Attendees can develop new skills, connect with industry leaders and gain practical business insights through sessions covering emerging trends, technical advancements, workforce development and business growth strategies.
The SEMA Collision Repair Stage will serve as a hub for industry engagement, bringing together collision-repair professionals for education, discussion and networking throughout the SEMA Show.
Through dedicated programming from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), attendees can participate in collision-repair-focused educational sessions and special industry events designed to address the latest trends, technologies and business challenges facing the collision-repair market. The stage offers valuable opportunities to learn from industry experts, gain practical insights and connect with peers across the collision-repair community.
The SEMA FutureTech Studio is a real-world reflection of today's advancements and opportunities available to aftermarket businesses.
Located in booth #24401, this featured exhibit brings together experts and cutting-edge technologies from across the mobility landscape, with innovations in alternative fuels, electric vehicle (EV) and powertrain development, advanced manufacturing and advanced vehicle safety systems.
The New Products Showcase is the world's largest display of new automotive aftermarket products and remains one of the top destinations for buyers and media at the SEMA Show.
Featuring thousands of newly introduced products from across the industry, the Showcase offers attendees a firsthand look at the innovations shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket, returning to the Lower South Hall near the main registration.
Organized by the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), the PRO Cup Challenge celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and innovation within the restyling industry while demonstrating the value of dealer-ready accessory packages.
Finalists are challenged to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience while meeting real-world dealership requirements. Entries are evaluated on marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability, while attendees also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite build through the People's Choice Award.
Sponsored by the Tire Industry Association (TIA), the Global Tire Expo serves as a comprehensive showcase for the tire industry, featuring the latest products, technologies and services from leading manufacturers and suppliers. The exhibit attracts tire dealers, retailers, distributors and automotive professionals from around the world while providing valuable opportunities for networking and business development.
SEMA Industry Honors
One night. One stage. Celebrating the people and stories driving our industry forward––only at the 2026 SEMA Industry Honors in Las Vegas.
On Thursday, November 5, the 2026 SEMA Industry Honors takes over the BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas for an unforgettable evening celebrating the people, companies and innovators driving the specialty-equipment industry forward. From SEMA Content Creator of the Year to SEMA Person of the Year and other prestigious honors, this is the industry's premier night of recognition.
A longstanding SEMA Show tradition, the Kickoff Breakfast brings together the aftermarket community before the Show officially opens. The event celebrates the innovators and entrepreneurs driving the industry forward and includes the presentation of the New Product Showcase Awards, Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year honors.
The SEMA Show opens its doors to a worldwide audience, for the third year in a row, via a livestream available on YouTube and Facebook. Throughout Show week, SEMA Live is set to feature 31 hours of up-close SEMA Show coverage across four days.
Attendees can see how it all comes together in person at the SEMA Live Studio in its Central Hall location, booth #20341.
Visit any of the SEMA Gear locations throughout the Show floor to purchase the official branded apparel and merchandise for the SEMA Show. Hurry, as these limited edition and collector items can sell out quickly. Search "SEMA Gear" at SEMAShow.com/floorplan and on the SEMA Show app to see all locations available, or click below.
Photographer Larry Chen, pictured above, has spent two decades documenting the people, vehicles and moments that define automotive culture. As the Featured SEMA Show Artist, Chen's photography will be incorporated throughout the Show's visual identity, appearing in signage, marketing materials and special installations. Chen is the first photographer selected as Featured SEMA Show Artist and the fifth creative to receive the honor since the program's inception.
Art Walk
Get immersed in automotive lifestyle and culture at the SEMA Show Art Walk, where some of the industry's premier artists will showcase their latest creations and celebrate the creativity that drives car culture.
Keep an eye on SEMA News for additional updates, announcements and programs set for the 2026 SEMA Show. Register here.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, 2026, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
PRO Series II Rear Bumper for '24-'26 Toyota Tacoma
Body Armor 4x4 has introduced the new PRO Series II rear bumper for '24-'26 Toyota Tacoma applications. Featuring a modular design with provisions for optional swing-outs and tire carriers and made with high-strength steel, the Pro Series II provides Tacoma owners with a versatile rear bumper solution built for both daily driving and off-road adventures.
Eibach SPECIAL EDITION PRO-KIT springs aims to maintain the factory look and fit of the factory equipment while delivering enhanced performance. By lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, the springs improve steering response, handling and overall vehicle dynamics while reducing ground clearance and fender gap for a sportier appearance, the manufacturer said. Precision-wound from high-tensile steel alloy and finished with a matte black coating, the springs are engineered to work with factory electronic or standard dampers.
FiTech Fuel Injection has released its all-new Go EFI Vintage 97 EFI Systems, bringing modern electronic fuel injection technology to enthusiasts who want the appearance of traditional Stromberg Style 97 bolt pattern multi-carburetor induction while benefiting from modern electronic fuel injection technology, the manufacturer said. Each system features remote ECU architecture, remote IAC, timing control capability, Tri-Sensor technology and a matte black finish for an authentic look.
TOPDON USA, a provider of automotive diagnostic tools, has introduced the TC001 Mini plug-in thermal camera. The TC001 Mini features a native 96×96 infrared sensor and uses patented Thermal Image Super Resolution (TISR) technology to enhance thermal images to a 384×384 resolution. The TC001 Mini is supported by iOS, Android and Windows for flexible and easy plug-in operation, and is compatible with the TopInfrared app and TopView PC software for analysis and reporting, the manufacturer said.
PRI Announces Programming for Motorsports Engineering Symposium at 2026 PRI Show
PRI has announced the session schedule for the inaugural PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium, taking place Thursday, December 10, during the 2026 PRI Show at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
To register and learn more about the PRI Show, visit PRI2026.com/Attend.
The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium will bring race engineers, motorsports professionals, manufacturers, educators and emerging engineering talent together for technical discussions focused on the challenges shaping modern motorsports. Sessions will examine the engineering challenges that impact on-track performance, from simulation and powertrain development to materials, manufacturing and workforce development.
The technical sessions will feature perspectives from leaders across motorsports and engineering, including experts from INDYCAR, Purdue University and Motor State Distributing.
2026 PRI MOTORSPORTS ENGINEERING SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE (all times Eastern)
10:00 a.m. — Opening Statements
10:15 a.m. — From Simulation to Track: Closing the Performance Gap
11:15 a.m. — Powertrain & Thermal Limits: Where Performance Breaks
1:30 p.m. — Building the Next Race Engineer: Closing the Talent Gap
2:30 p.m. — Materials & Manufacturing: Speed to Track
3:30 p.m. — The Future of Motorsports Engineering
4:30 p.m. — Closing Remarks
"The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium is designed to bring different areas of motorsports engineering into the same conversation," said PRI Managing Director Doug Bresnahan. "From simulation and powertrain development to materials, manufacturing and developing the next generation of engineers, these are issues that affect the future of the industry. Bringing the right people together to share knowledge and experience is an important part of PRI's commitment to technical education and industry advancement."
"The technical demands of motorsports continue to evolve, and the companies supporting the industry have to evolve with them," said Motor State Distributing Vice President of Marketing Daryl Sampson. "This program creates an opportunity to share knowledge, explore new technologies and connect with the engineers and professionals who are solving these challenges every day."
"Developing the next generation of motorsports engineers requires more than classroom learning," said Purdue University Director of Motorsports Engineering Chris Finch. "It requires opportunities to connect students and emerging engineers with the people, technologies and challenges shaping the industry. The program provides a valuable forum for that exchange."
"Engineering decisions are ultimately about finding performance, and that requires bringing together data, technology and experience," said INDYCAR Vice President of Competition and Engineering Mike O'Gara. "Creating a forum where engineers and industry professionals can discuss those challenges and share what they are learning is valuable for the entire motorsports community."
The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium is open to all registered PRI Show attendees. A valid PRI Show badge is required for entry. There are no additional registration requirements or fees to attend.
The 2026 PRI Show takes place December 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, bringing together motorsports professionals from across the globe.
Register today to connect with more than 1,000 exhibiting companies across more than 370,000 net sq. ft. of exhibit space, explore new products and technologies, attend education sessions, network with industry professionals and experience everything the PRI Show has to offer.
To register and learn more, visit PRI2026.com/Attend. PRI membership is no longer required to attend.
Autobahn Country Club Unveils Expanded North Track
Autobahn Country Club, the Joliet, Illinois, private motorsports club, has unveiled its newly expanded North Track, part of the facility's "Drive to 2035" long-term development plan.
The $3-million expansion of Autobahn's North Track marks one of the track's most significant investments since opening in 2004, according to track officials.
"When we created Autobahn, the idea was simple but radical: car enthusiasts deserved a community of their own," said Mark Basso, co-founder of Autobahn Country Club. "More than two decades later, this expansion shows that the idea is still evolving. We are enhancing the experience on a track they already know and love while preserving the character of the original circuit and staying true to what makes this community so special."
The expansion adds approximately half a mile of new track, featuring a 21-ft. elevation change, an 11% grade and a technical series of esses. The longest North Track configuration will now measure 1.5 miles with 12 turns, compared with the original nine-turn circuit. New connection points also allow the North Track to be driven in five distinct configurations, bringing Autobahn's total road-course configurations to 11.
The new track was designed by Tilke Engineers and Architects, the international firm behind Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, and the Bahrain International Circuit.
The North Track expansion is the first major project within Drive to 2035, Autobahn's broader vision to evolve its 330-acre campus and enhance the member and guest experience for years to come, track officials said, building on more than two decades of operational experience that has transformed Autobahn from a private road-course concept into a comprehensive automotive destination.
Autobahn is home to more than 560 members and a Member Racing Series that hosts 51 car races annually across open wheel, prototype and GT classes. Beyond its North and South road courses, the campus includes Kart Circuit Autobahn, the Autobahn Driver Academy powered by Toyota, Teen Driver Academy powered by Toyota, the Toyota TRD Pro Off-Road Experience Center, autocross, a 3-acre skid pad, corporate and group programs as well as hospitality experiences.
The new North Track will be unveiled at a special event on October 7 and will officially open during Autobahn's OktoberFast weekend, October 16–18.
It's been nearly five years since the first sighting of the highly anticipated Porsche 718 Electric, which is due to launch in very late 2026 for the '27 model year. Codenamed 983, the zero-emission sports car has now been spotted again testing on the Nürburgring for the first time without camouflage.
The black prototype in these pictures is the Boxster. Up front, we can see a variety of active cooling slats inspired by those of the 992.2-phase 911 Carrera GTS and 911 Turbo S. Bang in the center of the front bumper, Porsche integrated the radar sensor that makes adaptive cruise control possible. The active flaps are dual-purpose units that manage cooling and aerodynamic efficiency. While stickers may attempt to disguise the front lights, the four-point DRL signature is evident.
Equipped with stylish dual-spoke black alloys that frame steel brakes, the 718 Boxster Electric prototype features a center-mounted charge door out back. The charging flap is located between the rear license plate and the full-width light bar that connects the slim taillights.
From the rear, we also notice that Porsche went for a nearly flat underbody to improve aerodynamics. Based on a 718-specific derivative of the Premium Platform Electric, the all-new 718 will surely launch with an 800-volt architecture and two drivetrain configurations.
The standard layout should be a rear-mounted electric drive unit, whereas the higher-performance specifications are believed to adopt dual-motor setups. Three or more would be overkill for this application, especially when you remember that its high-voltage battery weighs a lot more than a full tank of gasoline.
Prospective customers will further be presented with a techy interior that could offer an optional passenger-side touchscreen. At least one steering column-mounted paddle is certain to happen, although we look forward to a couple of paddles.
In lesser Porsche battery-electric vehicles, the left and right paddles increase and decrease the level of recuperation. But in the Taycan Turbo GT, the right paddle activates a performance mode that provides a temporary power boost.
Due to packaging constraints, the T-shaped battery of the 718 Electric Boxster and 718 Electric Cayman isn't likely to match that of the Taycan. Originally intended to be electric-only models, the 983-series 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman will also get internal-combustion options.
Porsche quietly confirmed this change of heart during the latest investor call. Because the PPE Sport architecture of the 983 wasn't developed with internal combustion in mind, it presently lacks the structural space for a six-pot boxer, a transmission, the fuel tank and the exhaust system.
Engineers are believed to be working on a new structural floor section that bolts perfectly into the mounting points of the full-electric platform, restoring the rigidity lost by removing the load-bearing battery pack. In any case, these internal-combustion 983s are certain to be priced higher than electric 983 models.
From Track to Road: The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series
The future Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is taking on an increasingly concrete form. Compared to the first prototypes, a great deal has changed with this high-performance model. While the early vehicles still bore a strong visual resemblance to hand-built GT3 racing cars, the current prototype already looks much closer to a production car developed for public roads.
Refined touches have been made practically all around the vehicle. The front, sides and rear feature numerous changes. At the front, the revised headlights are particularly striking. The rear lights now also feature a design that appears ready for series production.
AMG seems to have carried out particularly extensive work on the rear. The bumper, side skirts and the entire area around the diffuser have been modified compared to the first test vehicles. At the same time, the active rear spoiler has grown significantly and is therefore likely to play an important role not only visually but also aerodynamically. Another interesting new feature can be found on the rear window: a small fin is visible there for the first time. The doors and side windows have also been modified during the course of development.
Another interesting feature is the fuel filler flap on the passenger side, near the B-pillar. On earlier prototypes, this design still looked heavily inspired by motor racing. On the current prototype, it now gives a much more production-ready impression.
There is little doubt that AMG will not compromise on maximum performance with the upcoming Black Series. The numerous aerodynamic details and the visible links to motorsport suggest that the model will once again bring plenty of motorsport DNA to the road.
At the same time, the current stage of development makes it clear that AMG is evidently in an advanced phase of testing. The upcoming Black Series could therefore not only be a particularly radical model in terms of its appearance, but also set new standards in terms of driving dynamics. A world premiere is currently expected in early 2027. Until then, however, the Black Series is likely to complete a few more laps as a prototype––presumably with less and less camouflage.
Attendees at the 2026 SEMA Show, held November 3–6 in Las Vegas, can develop new skills, connect with industry leaders and gain practical insights to help grow their businesses through this year's SEMA Education Program. More than 90 sessions will take place Tuesday, November 3, through Thursday, November 5, covering key topics and trends impacting professionals across the automotive and powersports industries.
Sessions will cover business, technical and industry-specific subjects, including leadership, emerging technologies, off-road, powersports and career development. The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) will present Driving Change: Women Shaping the Future of Off-Road, bringing together women leaders to discuss leadership, innovation, mentorship and opportunities ahead. In the Emerging and Executive Leadership track, Dale Carnegie sessions will cover practical listening and leadership skills, along with how leaders can use AI while maintaining trust and engagement.
"Time away from your business must deliver real value. The SEMA Show Education Program gives attendees practical insights and strategies they can apply immediately to make smarter decisions about where to invest and how to grow," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "SEMA Education, combined with the opportunity to discover products and connect with suppliers, makes the Show an essential business-planning tool."
As part of the broader SEMA Education offering, marquee partners will offer targeted education for a variety of aftermarket communities. For the first time, the Auto Film Mastery Conference will take place at the Show. Designed for window tinters, paint protection film installers, automotive detailers and other restyling professionals, the one-day conference will be held Monday, November 2, in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, one day before the official SEMA Show opens.
Other partner-led programs from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), Tire Industry Association (TIA) and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will provide specialized training for collision repair and installation professionals. The Collision Repair Stage (booth No. 32145) in South Hall Upper, along with learning centers such as the FutureTech Studio (Central Hall No. 24401) and ADAS Showcase (South Hall Upper No. 31200), will highlight the latest in repair, ADAS, alternative propulsion and mobility.
"SEMA Show Education reflects the breadth of the automotive aftermarket and the wide range of professional fields that make up this industry," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "Whether attendees are looking for business strategies, technical information, leadership development or insights into the future of the industry, our education program gives them another way to make the most of their time at the Show."
Most sessions are first come, first served and free of charge. Attendees can build a customized schedule and register for paid sessions through the Show Planner tool. Explore the full 2026 SEMA Show Education Program at www.semashow.com/education.
Think your 2026 SEMA Show build has what it takes to stand among the industry's best? Submit it for the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish and put your craftsmanship, creativity and innovation in the spotlight at the SEMA Show. The competition is open for 2026, and builders across the automotive and motorcycle worlds are invited to enter. Builders may enter while working to secure a spot for their vehicle at the 2026 SEMA Show, but the vehicle must have a feature vehicle space or booth space secured by October 16, 2026, to continue in the Battle of the Builders competition. Enter at semabotb.com.
Now in its 13th year, the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish has become a proving ground for custom vehicle builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show. For 2026, the competition is expanding beyond four wheels with the debut of the SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout, creating a new opportunity for custom motorcycle builders to earn industry recognition on the SEMA Show stage. Entries will be evaluated separately by motorcycle industry judges based on craftsmanship, design innovation and overall execution, with entries advancing through the competition until one builder is ultimately named the overall Bike Builder champion.
The Bike Builder Shootout joins the program's four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns. As in years past, winners from these four classes will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall Battle of the Builders champion.
Supporting the Next Generation of Builders With the BFGoodrich Young Guns
Builders age 29 and younger can enter the BFGoodrich Young Guns category, which continues to provide emerging talent with increased visibility and opportunities to compete alongside some of the industry's most respected names.
If you have a 2026 SEMA Show build, you can enter the Battle of the Builders competition while working to secure its Show placement. The BOTB operations team will review applications and verify the vehicle's status for displaying at the 2026 SEMA Show. To continue in the competition, the vehicle's feature vehicle space or booth space must be secured by October 16, 2026.
If you have already secured a spot on the 2026 SEMA Show floor for your build, you can enter now at semabotb.com.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, 2026, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
Note: Battle of the Builders entrants may enter while working to secure their vehicle's placement at the SEMA Show. However, the vehicle must have its feature vehicle space or booth space secured by October 16, 2026, to continue in the 2026 BOTB competition. Applying for the Battle of the Builders does not grant a vehicle a spot at the 2026 SEMA Show.
To apply for a feature vehicle space at the 2026 SEMA Show, a SEMA Show exhibiting company must sponsor the space. Once sponsorship has been secured, builders can apply for a feature vehicle space here. See the feature vehicle rules and regulations for additional information. Questions about applying for a feature vehicle space can be directed to Maurice O'Connell at mauriceo@sema.org.
