By SEMA News Editors

 

Attendee registration for the 2026 SEMA Show is officially available at the lowest possible price point––but not for much longer. Prices will increase after this week's deadline (more on that, below). 

 

Set for November 3-6 in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show delivers an attendee experience unlike any other, bringing together thousands of world-class vehicle displays alongside even more of the newest automotive aftermarket products from both emerging and established exhibitors.  

 

The SEMA Show floor serves as the ultimate destination for automotive professionals of all experience levels, backgrounds and areas of focus to convene, share insights and ideas and conduct business for four days straight. 

 

How to Register for the 2026 SEMA Show 

Approved attendees can register for a SEMA Show badge at the lowest available rate ($50 per badge) until pricing increases (to $75 per badge) after TOMORROW, Friday, June 26.

 

In short, the sooner an attendee registers for the SEMA Show, the more they save. But, early registrants can also get a head start on their SEMA Show plan, with access to the Registration Resource Center to print receipts, register a spouse, book hotels, reserve a spot in one of dozens of educational sessions, purchase tickets to events like SEMA Fest, the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Industry Honors and more.

 

How to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show Hotel Reservations 

Hotel reservations are open through SEMA's only official housing partner, onPeak. Bookings made in the official SEMA Show block are eligible for hotel loyalty and member programs and are guaranteed to be the lowest possible prices available. That's right: organizers will price-match if you happen to find a lower rate, so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block at semashow.com/hotel. 

 

How to Save on Airfare to Las Vegas for the SEMA Show

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show. 

 

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners––detailed at the link below––attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event. 

 

SEMA Fest Is Back in 2026

SEMA Fest, which has featured headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age, will return to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, with motorsports, music and car culture. 

 

Tickets are available now for industry members at the lowest available price ahead of the 2026 lineup announcement. Qualified SEMA Show attendees can add SEMA Fest tickets directly through the Registration Resource Center when securing a Show badge.

 

Non-industry friends and family can purchase tickets now at SEMAFest.com, along with passes for the one-day "SEMA Show Friday–Open to the Public," a bucket-list experience for automotive enthusiasts.

 

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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, buyer and media registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

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 SEMA News Editors

 

The specialty-equipment market remained steady and resilient this past year, generating $52.92 billion in accessory and performance parts sales despite mixed economic conditions.

 

SEMA's newly released "2026 SEMA Market Report" explores the trends, consumer behaviors and vehicle-market shifts shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket. From pickup truck modifications and performance upgrades to changing demographics and powertrain trends, the report provides data-driven insights to help businesses identify opportunities and make informed decisions.

 

This article highlights several key findings, but the full report offers a much deeper look at the market forces influencing the industry today and in the years ahead.

 

Personalization Continues to Drive the Aftermarket

 

Vehicle personalization remains a cornerstone of the aftermarket.

 

Approximately one in four vehicle owners purchased accessory or performance products to personalize their vehicles in 2025, reinforcing the continued demand for customization across a broad range of consumers.

 

While enthusiast builds and dedicated project vehicles remain important segments, the research shows that most consumers purchase aftermarket products to personalize, improve or enhance their everyday drivers.

 

What it means: The market opportunity extends well beyond hardcore enthusiasts. Products that help consumers personalize daily-driven vehicles continue to attract significant demand.

 

Pickups Remain the Industry's Largest Segment

 

Pickup trucks continue to generate the largest share of aftermarket sales.

 

According to the report, pickup-related accessories and performance products accounted for 30% of total industry sales in 2025. Vehicle owners spent more than $15 billion modifying pickups for off-road recreation, utility and lifestyle applications.

 

What it means: Trucks remain one of the industry's strongest opportunities, with continued demand for products supporting work, recreation and personalization.

 

Younger Consumers Are Fueling Future Growth

 

The next generation of enthusiasts continues to play a critical role in the aftermarket.

 

More than half of accessory and performance parts buyers are under the age of 40, and younger consumers are more likely to undertake performance-focused and complex vehicle builds than older generations.

 

What it means: Businesses that understand younger consumers' interests, purchasing habits and vehicle preferences will be better positioned for long-term growth.

 

The Vehicle Fleet Continues to Evolve

 

The U.S. vehicle population continues shifting toward crossovers and utility vehicles as automakers produce fewer traditional passenger cars.

 

Even so, coupes, sedans and convertibles still account for more than one-third of vehicles on the road today, representing a substantial market for aftermarket products and services.

 

What it means: Emerging vehicle segments create new opportunities, but established vehicle categories remain highly relevant to the aftermarket.

 

Alternative Powertrains Grow While ICE Remains Dominant

 

Electric and hybrid vehicle sales continue to grow, now representing more than 15% of new-vehicle sales.

 

However, the report indicates that internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are expected to remain the dominant powertrain for new vehicles sold in the United States through the next decade.

 

What it means: Aftermarket businesses can continue supporting their core ICE customers while monitoring growing opportunities in hybrid and electric vehicle segments.

 

Turn Data Into Opportunity

 

Understanding where the market is headed can help businesses make smarter decisions about product development, marketing, inventory planning and customer engagement.

 

The "2026 SEMA Market Report" provides a detailed look at:

 

• Industry size and market dynamics.
• Consumer purchasing behavior.
• Pickup truck market trends.
• Younger enthusiast demographics.
• Vehicle fleet and powertrain changes.
• Emerging opportunities across the aftermarket.

 

In a competitive market, access to reliable data can be a valuable advantage.

 

Go Deeper: Save Your Seat for the Market Research Webinar on July 1

 

Want a deeper look at the findings? Join SEMA's Market Research team on Wednesday, July 1, at 10:00 a.m. PDT for a virtual launch webinar, where experts will break down the report's key takeaways, discuss emerging trends and answer attendee questions live.

 

SEMA's Market Research team provides information and insight to help SEMA members and the specialty automotive aftermarket make better business decisions. Its focus is on delivering reports, data and consultation that help companies understand the market and their customers.

 

The full "2026 SEMA Market Report" is available for purchase, with discounted pricing available to SEMA members. Businesses that join SEMA gain access to valuable market research resources, industry insights and tools designed to help them grow and compete more effectively. Learn more about SEMA Membership at sema.org/membership-business.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with Las Vegas hotels across every price tier to offer the best nightly rates--plus exclusive perks and a simple, affordable booking process. Book now through onPeak, the SEMA Show's official housing partner, to maximize savings on your SEMA Show accommodations.

 

Even better: There's still availability, albeit limited, in different hotels* that come out to less than $150 per night, including mandatory hotel fees. These properties include:

 

• Excalibur ($93/night average)
• Luxor ($103/night average)
• Circus Circus ($110/night average)

 

Hotel reservations for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, can be made online at semashow.com/hotel.

 

 

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, 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.  

 

*Availability and room options are subject to change. Options available as of the publish date on June 10. For the most up-to-date offerings, visit semashow.com/hotel.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

The countdown to the SEMA Show is on. Automotive professionals have just days left to secure the lowest available registration rate for the 2026 SEMA Show before badge prices increase after Friday, June 26.

 

Registering now not only saves money: it also unlocks access to hotel booking, educational sessions, special-event tickets and other planning resources designed to help attendees maximize their time in Las Vegas this November 3-6.  

 

The SEMA Show floor serves as the ultimate destination for automotive professionals of all experience levels, backgrounds and areas of focus to convene, share insights and ideas and conduct business for four days straight. 
 

Why Register Before June 26?

• Save $25 per badge before rates increase.
• Reserve hotel rooms at guaranteed lowest rates through onPeak.
• Access the Registration Resource Center immediately.
• Purchase tickets for SEMA Fest and other special events.
• Reserve seats for popular education sessions before they fill up.
• Start planning meetings, booth visits and networking opportunities months in advance.

 

Register Before June 26 and Save

Approved attendees can register for a SEMA Show badge at the lowest available rate ($50 per badge) until pricing increases (to $75 per badge) after Friday, June 26.

 

The sooner an attendee registers for the SEMA Show, the more they save. But, early registrants can also get a head start on their SEMA Show plan, with access to the Registration Resource Center to print receipts, register a spouse, book hotels, reserve a spot in one of dozens of educational sessions, purchase tickets to events like SEMA Fest, the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Industry Honors and more.

 

How to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show Hotel Reservations 

Hotel reservations are open through SEMA's only official housing partner, onPeak. Bookings made in the official SEMA Show block are eligible for hotel loyalty and member programs and are guaranteed to be the lowest possible prices available. That's right: organizers will price-match if you happen to find a lower rate, so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block at semashow.com/hotel. 

 

How to Save on Airfare to Las Vegas for the SEMA Show

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show. 

 

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners––detailed at the link below––attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event. 

 

SEMA Fest Is Back in 2026

SEMA Fest, which has featured headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age, will return to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, with motorsports, music and car culture. 

 

Tickets are available now for industry members at the lowest available price ahead of the 2026 lineup announcement. Qualified SEMA Show attendees can add SEMA Fest tickets directly through the Registration Resource Center when securing a Show badge.

 

Non-industry friends and family can purchase tickets now at SEMAFest.com, along with passes for the one-day "SEMA Show Friday–Open to the Public," a bucket-list experience for automotive enthusiasts.

 

Every dollar saved before arriving in Las Vegas is a dollar that can be invested back into your business. Register now, lock in the lowest badge rate available, and begin planning for four days of new products, industry connections, business opportunities and unforgettable experiences at the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

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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, buyer and media registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

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

 

Automotive restoration professionals still have time to register for the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) online general membership meeting and panel discussion on business best practices, taking place Thursday, June 25, at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT.

 

During the general membership meeting, select committee leaders will share brief updates on ARMO's key initiatives and member resources. The event will then transition into a panel discussion, offering attendees a rare opportunity to learn from top restoration shop owners as they share insights into building a profitable business.

 

Moderated by Joanna Agosta Shere, president of Steele Rubber Products, the discussion will feature panelists Amy Beck of Hahn Auto Restoration, Tony D'Antonio of D'Antonio Automotive and Jesse Henke of JH Restorations Ltd. Together, they will share real-life examples of what works, what doesn't and where shops unknowingly lose time and money––and how to fix it.

 

What You'll Learn:

• Foundations of a successful business
• Financial and billing practices
• Efficient workflows and operations
• Client experience and marketing strategies

 

Whether you manage projects, cash flow or make important decisions, this session will provide you with strategies that experienced shop owners use every day to run a profitable and sustainable business.

 

ARMO membership is open to SEMA member companies serving the automotive restoration market, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, restorers and car clubs. To learn more or to join, visit www.sema.org/armo.

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Brian Myers, owner of RallyeRestorations & Repair, LLC, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

 

Get to know Myers in his interview with SEMA News below. 

 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Brian Myers: Some of the best advice I have received is to work for a purpose, not a paycheck. The work you do, the business you create, etc. represents you as a person. Understanding that people know you by the quality of work you do has helped me to make things right when necessary and always do quality work.

 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

BM: It is a lifestyle; building cars is one of the most challenging things you can do in this industry. Nothing you do is ever the same, learning never ends and let's be honest, there is nothing cooler out there.

 

SN: Where can you be found on Saturday? 

BM: You can find me most weekends still working in the garage. Sometimes I even find time to work on my own project vehicles!

 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

BM: Typically, I like to be prepared to take notes, ask questions and have a brief understanding of who I am meeting with and what topics it will consist of.

 

SN: If you could go to lunch with an industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

BM: Tough question, our industry is full of history and rich with technological advancements throughout the years. Carroll Shelby, a man who needs no introduction is who I would choose. Watching some of his interviews late in his life offered great insight into why I do what I do. You do it because you enjoy it (most days) and hope that one day you can look back and see that you had an impact on someone's life.

 

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Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

 

From left to right: Dystany Spurlock, Aicha Evans, Nelson "Jack" Edwards, Randy Parker and Cornelius Coffey.

 

The African American Automotive Association (AAAA) has announced the latest group of individuals to be inducted into the AAAA Hall of Fame as the Class of 2026.

 

2026 AAAA Hall of Fame Inductees: Randy Parker, Nelson "Jack" Edwards, Dystany Spurlock, Aicha Evans and Cornelius Coffey.  

 

Since the AAAA's inception, its mission has been to preserve, celebrate, and elevate Black excellence within the automotive industry and motorsports, representatives of the organization said. This year, it is taking a monumental step forward. 

 

The 2026 Induction Class marks an expansion of the AAAA's scope from traditional automotive and racing sectors into the broader realm of global mobility. From the factory floors of Detroit and the high-speed banks of modern race tracks to the futuristic world of artificial intelligence and the boundless skies of aviation––this class proves that Black innovation has continuously moved the world forward, AAAA representatives said.

 

"Whether it is planes, trains, automobiles, or autonomous tech, the 2026 inductees represent the past, present, and ultimate future of global mobility," said Chris Harris, founder of the AAAA.

 

Read about each of the AAAA Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Inductees below:

 

Randy Parker 

 

Category: The Corporate C-Suite and OEM Leadership 

Title: First African American CEO of a Major Automaker's North American Division 

Bio: Randy Parker shattered one of the highest glass ceilings in the global automotive industry when he was appointed president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. With over three decades of distinguished automotive experience, Parker's journey to the top of the industry is a masterclass in executive excellence. Before making history at Hyundai, he climbed the ranks through vital leadership roles at General Motors, GMAC and Nissan, where he served as vice president of sales. Upon taking the helm at Hyundai, Parker became the first African American to lead a major automotive manufacturer's North American regional division. His tenure has been defined by revolutionary market growth, spearheading record-breaking sales volumes and driving the brand's aggressive, award-winning push into mass-market electrification. Parker is being inducted not only for his profound commercial impact on the global market but for serving as a vanguard for Black executive representation at the absolute pinnacle of corporate automotive leadership. 

 

Nelson "Jack" Edwards 

 

Category: Labor Foundation and Autoworker Rights 

Title: Trailblazing UAW Vice President and Civil Rights Advocate 

Bio: While engineers design cars and drivers race them, Nelson "Jack" Edwards protected the Black hands that built them. Leaving Alabama for Detroit in 1937 during the Great Migration, Edwards immediately entered the grueling forge and foundry plants of Chrysler and later the Ford Lincoln plant (Local 900). Facing systemic Jim Crow-era discrimination inside the factories, he dedicated his life to organizing and protecting workers. In 1962, Edwards made history as the first African American elected to the UAW's International Executive Board, and in 1970, he shattered the ultimate labor ceiling by becoming the first Black vice president of the UAW. Edwards fundamentally changed what it meant to be an American industrial worker. He championed the legendary "25 and Out" pension plan, which allowed foundry and forge workers––who faced toxic dust and extreme heat––to retire with full benefits after 25 years. He also secured company-funded medical exams and standardized paid time off. Beyond the shop floor, UAW President Walter Reuther sent Edwards directly to Birmingham in 1963 to stand alongside Dr. King in the Civil Rights fight, and Edwards later co-founded the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU). Edwards is inducted posthumously for establishing the very human foundation upon which American automotive prosperity was built. 

 

Dystany Spurlock 

 

Category: Motorsports 

Title: Record-Breaking Drag Racer & Historic NASCAR Pioneer 

Bio: Dystany Spurlock is actively rewriting the history books across multiple racing disciplines, demonstrating a remarkable level of versatility in modern motorsports. She initially established her legacy on two wheels, showcasing elite precision on the drag strip to set multiple world records in motorcycle drag racing. Building on those achievements, Spurlock made history in 2025 by becoming only the second Black woman to compete in the prestigious NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle class. In 2026, Spurlock transitioned into four-wheel stock car racing, demonstrating an impressive adaptability across distinct motorsport formats. She broke monumental ground by becoming the first Black woman to compete on the ARCA Menards Series platform. Continuing her rapid ascent, she reached the national touring level by becoming the first Black woman to qualify and race in a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event. While Spurlock continues to write her story, she has shattered one of the final remaining "firsts" in American motorsports history, cementing her place as a historic pioneer for the next generation of drivers. 

 

Aicha Evans 

 

Category: Technology 

Title: CEO of Zoox and Pioneer in Self-Driving Mobility 

Bio: Aicha Evans perfectly embodies the reality that tech is the new horsepower. Before entering the automotive landscape, Evans spent over a decade as a powerhouse executive at Intel, rising to chief strategy officer and managing global wireless technologies like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and 5G. In 2019, she made a historic transition to the automotive sector as the CEO of Zoox (later acquired by Amazon), becoming the first African American woman to lead an autonomous vehicle company. Crucially, Evans is not just developing software; she is running a full-scale automotive OEM. Under her leadership, Zoox designed, engineered and manufactured a brand-new, ground-up, highway-capable electric vehicle. This symmetrical robotaxi features no steering wheel or pedals, built-in four-wheel steering and has been rigorously crash-tested to meet federal automotive safety standards. Evans is being inducted for bridging Silicon Valley innovation with automotive manufacturing, proving that the future of the car belongs to software-defined mobility. 

 

Cornelius Coffey 

 

Category: The Horizon: Automotive and Aviation Bridging 

Title: Master Auto Mechanic Turned Historic Aviation Pioneer 

Bio: Cornelius Coffey's legendary career is the ultimate proof that automotive mastery is the foundational springboard for all global mobility. Long before conquering the skies, Coffey graduated at the top of his class from the Chicago School of Automotive Engineering and spent years working as a certified Auto Master Mechanic at a prominent Chevrolet dealership. When systemic racism blocked him from commercial flight schools, Coffey used his deep automotive expertise to build his first aircraft by hand, powering it with a motorcycle engine. Furthermore, it was his employer at the Chevrolet dealership who legally championed Coffey's right to enter aviation school. Coffey went on to become the first African American to hold both a pilot's and aircraft mechanic's license, founding the first Black-owned certified flight school in the U.S. and training the legendary Tuskegee Airmen—a historic legacy built entirely on an automotive foundation. 

 

Established by Harris in 2023, the AAAA is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals by offering hands-on learning experiences, industry exposure, and partnerships with key stakeholders. In 2025, the organization was integrated into the Foxxtecca brand, co-founded by Harris and Kellie Crawford, whose mission is to bridge the gap between automotive innovation and cultural expression.

 

The AAAA Hall of Fame honors the remarkable achievements of Black individuals in the automotive, transportation, and motorsports industries.

 

To learn more about the Hall of Fame and its inductees, visit aaaassoc.com/hall-of-fame. 

 

Image courtesy of AAAA

By SEMA News Editors

 

Universal Technical Institute Completes Nationwide Rollout of EV and Hybrid Training

 

Universal Technical Institute (UTI), the automotive/diesel, skilled trades, electrical and energy education division of Universal Technical Institute, Inc., has announced that all its core automotive technology programs across the country now include battery hybrid electric vehicles (BHEV) and electric vehicles (EV) courses.

 

The curriculum introduces students to high-voltage vehicle operation; explains electric vehicle components, operation, diagnosis, and service; reviews electronic principles; and provides unique training in electric-battery vehicle-system operation and testing. Depending on the campus, students may train on Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai IONIQ 5 or FIAT 500e vehicles.

 

"There are already millions of EV and BHEV vehicles on the road today, and every year that number is increasing," said UTI Division President Tracy Lorenz. "That creates an immediate and expanding need for technicians who know how to diagnose and repair these complex systems safely."

 

The campuses where BHEV and EV courses are now standard include UTI-Austin, UTI-Avondale, UTI-Bloomfield, UTI-Dallas, UTI-Exton, UTI-Houston, UTI-Lisle, UTI-Long Beach, UTI-Miramar, UTI-Mooresville, UTI-Orlando, UTI-Rancho Cucamonga and UTI-Sacramento. This curriculum will be a standard component of the automotive technology program, which launches in Atlanta and Salt Lake City when those campuses open, as well as in future locations offering the program, says UTI.

 

Universal Technical Institute Announces John Balderree as Campus President of New Salt Lake City Campus

 

UTI has announced that John Balderree has been named Campus President of its new Salt Lake City campus.

 

"John brings a strong track record of driving student success and leading high-performing teams," said Lorenz. "His experience and leadership will be instrumental as we launch our Salt Lake City campus and expand access to career-focused education in the region."

 

Scheduled to open in 2027, UTI-Salt Lake City will occupy nearly 113,000 sq. ft. at River Point Plaza, located at 1553 W. 9000 S. in West Jordan. The campus has the capacity to serve more than 3,000 students and will offer programs in aviation maintenance technology; automotive and diesel; electrical & industrial maintenance technology; electrical, electronics & industrial technology; electrical, robotics & automation; HVACR; and welding (all pending regulatory approvals, according to UTI).

 

For more information, visit uti.edu.

 

 

Elliott's Custom Trailers & Carts Opening New Indiana Location

 

Elliott's Custom Trailers & Carts, a dealer of haulers, trailers, motorcoaches and golf carts, is opening a new location near Indianapolis, Indiana.

 

Located in Brownsburg, Indiana, the new location will serve the greater Indianapolis area, including Brownsburg, Pittsboro, Avon, Speedway, Danville, Clermont and more.

 

The company will be celebrating the opening of the new dealership with a Grand Opening on Saturday, July 11. From 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. local time, the facility will have food trucks, giveaways and exclusive deals to mark the occasion.

 

For more information, visit elliottscustomtrailers.com.

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

Time management is one of the most valuable skills a professional can have. Combine that skill with tech-enabled learning, and it creates a major advantage for automotive aftermarket professionals looking to grow their careers, improve productivity and stay competitive in today's workforce.

 

During the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) virtual education session, "Tips and Tricks for Time Management, Study Up and Tech Advancement," on Tuesday, August 11, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT, a panel of aftermarket industry leaders will share successful time management strategies and best practices for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and technology for daily work.  

 

Designed for automotive aftermarket professionals looking to sharpen their skills and increase productivity, the session will explore methods for continuous learning and tips and tricks for creating work efficiencies.

 

Attendees will learn:

• Time management tools and approaches for busy professionals.
• How to integrate AI as a task assistant and thought partner.
•  Ways to stay current with new technologies.
• Strategies for self-directed learning and growth.

 

Moderated by Annette Bauer, the session will feature panelists Jeffrey Banyas, manager––legal production at Sisson and Banyas; Desiree Chandler, founder and creative director of DeeZee; and Amanda Van Den Elzen, founder of Racer on Demand LLC.

 

Industry professionals, particularly those early in their career or ones that are job-searching and starting with new employers, are encouraged to join the webinar.

 

Register here or click below.

 

 

 

 

 

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | NDAB Creativity

 

 

Massive Changes Coming for Hyundai Kona

 

One of Hyundai's most popular small SUVs is about to undergo major changes. It was previously understood that the Hyundai Kona was due for a minor facelift, but it now appears it will receive a comprehensive set of updates, effectively making it an all-new generation.

 

There is no official word yet on when this next-generation Kona will come to market, but it is rumored to arrive next year, with testing appearing to be at an advanced stage.

 

According to insiders, the new Kona will be dramatically redesigned compared to the outgoing model. It features boxy proportions and sharp bodywork creases, similar to the Crater concept revealed by Hyundai late last year. This gives it a more imposing stance than the current Kona. There is also a new front lighting and grille design to further distinguish the model.

 

Hybrid variants of the Kona are expected to receive the same setup found in the recently unveiled Kia Seltos SUV. The new Seltos is available with a 1.6L turbocharged gasoline engine and electric motor setup, ditching conventional gasoline variants for the new generation.

 

This could foreshadow a similar move for the next-generation Kona. The current version is available with gasoline, hybrid and fully electric powertrains. The vehicle will target tech-savvy buyers with a new software system and a combined 12.3-in. digital driver display and 12.3-in. central touchscreen.

 

Performance Variant of the VW ID. 3 Neo Under Development

 

Volkswagen hasn't revealed the ID.3 Neo GTX yet, and given the introduction of the ID. Polo GTI last month, its name could be changed to ID.3 Neo GTI to better align the newcomer with Volkswagen's smaller electric performance hatchback.

 

Spied largely devoid of camouflage and stickers on German streets, the successor to the ID.3 GTX adopts a mouth-like design for the lower front bumper intake. Moving away from the diamond-mesh setup of the previous iteration, the redesign also features an optimized rear bumper with a revised aerodynamic diffuser.

 

The ID.3 Neo GTI prototype in this photo set appears sharper overall, trading softer lines for more angular styling. The interior should largely mirror the non-GTI models, including material-quality upgrades that incorporate higher-grade materials on the door panels and dashboard.

 

To match its potential new badge, Volkswagen may also incorporate GTI accents throughout the cabin, along with plaid upholstery and red accents for added flair. With the second facelift, Europe's largest automaker has also reintroduced several physical controls. Naturally, an updated software architecture should be included among the standard features.

 

Considering that Volkswagen gave the ID.3 GTX rear-wheel drive and the ID. Polo GTI front-wheel drive, chances are the automaker hasn't changed the powertrain formula for the ID.3 Neo GTI. The performance model could utilize the APP550 drive unit with more than 322 hp and 402 lb.-ft. of torque on tap.

 

This drive unit features a stator with hairpin technology that allows more copper to be packed into the slots. Cast and machined specifically to withstand the higher structural loads created by the additional torque compared to the previous design, the APP550's case houses a dual-circuit cooling system in which heated oil is cooled externally via a dedicated heat exchanger.

 

The stator's outer casing is also enclosed in a water-cooled heat-sink jacket, ensuring proper cooling even under high loads. Produced at the Kassel plant in Germany, this drive unit is connected to a 79-kWh battery that supports DC fast charging at up to 183 kilowatts. The battery is expected to carry over to the '27 ID.3 Neo GTI with few, if any, improvements to either the pack or charging system.

 

Capable of accepting 11 kW of AC power, the ID.3 Neo also features a vehicle-to-load system that can discharge up to 3.6 kW through the official Type 2 adapter. While it may be a performance model, the ID.3 Neo GTI could offer this functionality as well.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia