By Ashley Reyes

 

Specialty automotive parts companies are facing a shortage of skilled talent. At the same time, hundreds of engineering students are preparing to graduate and looking for their first professional opportunity.

 

Both sides face a common challenge, but one event is helping SEMA members bridge the gap: The Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Career Fair, taking place at the SEMA Garage Detroit on Saturday, September 26. Company registration is open now.  

 

Held in partnership with the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the ETTN Career Fair offers aftermarket employers a free opportunity to meet face-to-face with students who are passionate about careers in the automotive aftermarket.

 

Why Companies Should Attend

 

• Connect directly with future engineers who are passionate about vehicles, innovation and technology.
• Promote career opportunities and open positions.
• Build relationships with emerging engineers and technical professionals.
• Support workforce development within the aftermarket industry.
• Network with other aftermarket professionals and industry leaders in attendance.  

 

If your company is searching for future automotive engineers who are work-ready, eager to learn and want to contribute to a growing and passionate industry, the ETTN Career Fair is a valuable opportunity to meet motivated students and build your future workforce.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

As automotive aftermarket professionals prepare to descend on Las Vegas for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, it's important for exhibitors to keep critical deadlines and checklists in mind.

 

To help your brand prepare to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and automotive professionals, SEMA has compiled exhibitor resources to help you track upcoming deadlines and stay on budget.

 

SEMA Show Deadlines List for Exhibitors

 

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, some of which are also detailed in this article below.

 

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

 

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines for the 2026 SEMA Show

 

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates, including the upcoming July 31 deadline for Feature Vehicle Display applications. The Feature Vehicle Display program allows exhibitors to expand their Show presence beyond their booth space and is open to vehicles of all categories and applications of the aftermarket.

• July 31: Feature Vehicle Display application (vehicles displayed outside of booth). Details may be found in the "Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities" section of semashow.com/esm.
  • Approved applicants who submit applications by July 31 will receive an approval and confirmation email on August 28. Applications submitted after the July deadline are subject to approval at the end of September, or as space allows.
• August 14: Press/Media Conference Application & SEMA Show Directory listing information due.
• August 21: SEMA Show Directory ad space reservations due (materials due August 27).
• August 28: Celebrity Appearance Notification due (to be included in printed materials).

 

SEMA Show Budget Checklist

 

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs––like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

 

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

 

One of the best ways to save is to place orders with the Freeman event agency before the "advance rate" deadline on October 1.

 

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com.  

 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.  

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Ferrari Unveils an Exclusive Ferrari Luce Tailor Made for Charity Auction During Monterey Car Week 2026

 

Ferrari has announced that an exclusive Ferrari Luce Tailor Made, a unique masterpiece and the very first Luce chassis, will be auctioned by RM Sotheby's during the prestigious Monterey Car Week in California in August 2026. Developed in close collaboration with the Ferrari Tailor Made program and the Ferrari Design Studio, "Chassis 0" represents one of the most advanced expressions of Ferrari's technical innovation, research in the fields of design, materials and color, and artisanal excellence.

 

Proceeds through The Ferrari Foundation, a 501(c) (3) public charity, will be partly donated to ongoing educational projects in the United States and partly to M-TECH Alfredo Ferrari.

 

As the Maranello marque's first electric Ferrari and first four-door, five-seat vehicle, the Ferrari Luce combines driving thrills, performance, versatility and comfort, according to the automaker.

 

FERRARI LUCE–TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

 

Dimensions and Weight

• Length: 197.9 in. (5,026 mm)
• Width (without mirrors): 78.7 in. (1,999 mm)
• Height: 60.8 in. (1,544 mm)
• Wheelbase: 116.6 in. (2,961 mm)
• Front Track: 66.8 in. (1,696 mm)
• Rear Track: 66.5 in. (1,690 mm)
• Curb Weight*: 4,982 lbs. (2,260 kg)
• Weight-to-Power Ratio: 4.76 lbs./hp (2.16 kg/cv)
• Weight Distribution: 47% Front / 53% Rear
• Cargo Capacity: 21.1 cu. ft. (597 L)

Tires

• Front: 265/35R23 on 23x9.5 wheels
• Rear: 315/30R24 on 24x11 wheels

Brakes

• Front: Carbon-Ceramic (CCM), 390 x 34 mm
• Rear: Carbon-Ceramic (CCM), 372 x 34 mm

Powertrain

• Electric Motors: Four (one per wheel)
• Maximum Power**: 1,050 hp (772 kW)
• Maximum Torque (at motors)**: 730 lb.-ft. (990 Nm)
• Maximum Torque (at wheels): 8,482 lb.-ft. (11,500 Nm)

Front E-Axle

• Axle Output: 282 hp (210 kW)
• Wheel Torque**: 2,508 lb.-ft. (3,400 Nm)
• Motor Torque**: 207 lb.-ft. (280 Nm)
• Power Density: 3.23 kW/kg (93% efficiency)
• Maximum Motor Speed: 30,000 rpm
• Weight: 143 lbs. (65 kg)

Rear E-Axle

• Axle Output: 831 hp (620 kW)
• Wheel Torque**: 5,716 lb.-ft. (7,750 Nm)
• Motor Torque**: 524 lb.-ft. (710 Nm)
• Power Density: 4.80 kW/kg (93% efficiency)
• Maximum Motor Speed: 25,500 rpm
• Weight: 284 lbs. (129 kg)

Battery

• Cell Count: 210 (15 modules with 14 cells each)
• Total Energy Density: 195 Wh/kg
• Cell Energy Density: 305 Wh/kg
• Gross Capacity: 122 kWh
• Maximum Voltage: 800 V
• Maximum Charging Rate: 350 kW

Performance

• 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h): 2.5 sec.
• 0–124 mph (0–200 km/h): 6.8 sec.
• Top Speed: 193 mph (310 km/h)
• Estimated Range***: 329 miles (530 km)
• Energy Consumption (WLTP): Pending Homologation

* With optional equipment.
** In Launch Control mode.
*** Manufacturer estimate; certification pending homologation.

 

Learn more here.

 

 

Turn 14 Adds New Outside Territory Manager

 

Turn 14 Distribution is strengthening its representation in the powersports sector with the addition of Garrett Comer as outside territory manager for the Arizona and California territories.

 

An avid off-road enthusiast, Comer brings previous industry experience to the role, in addition to an understanding of dealer and distributor dynamics, the company said. He previously served as a general manager and parts specialist with a large dealer group in Arizona.

 

As outside territory manager for Arizona and California, Comer will continue to define and expand Turn 14 Distribution's presence in the powersports realm, the company said. With an emphasis on further growing dealer trust, Comer is primed to help position Turn 14 as a pillar in the powersports aftermarket moving forward and will share the Southwest territory with counterpart Brenden Gill, according to Turn 14.

 

For more information, visit turn14.com.

 

 

Ferrari Luce image courtesy of Ferrari

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Roush Performance

'27 Ram 1500 Direct Connection by Roush

Built on the '27 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 with a 5.7L Hemi V8, the OEM-backed package adds a Roush coil-over suspension, 33-in. all-terrain tires, an active cat-back exhaust, exclusive exterior styling and premium interior accents while retaining the truck's factory drivability, towing capability and advanced driver-assistance systems. Available through Ram dealers in five exterior colors, the truck combines Ram's proven capability with Roush's performance engineering for a more capable, off-road-ready pickup, according to the company.

 

Hot Shot's Secret

Pure Diamond Bypass Filtration System

 

Hot Shot’s Secret has launched the Pure Diamond Bypass Filtration System, a bypass oil filtration solution engineered to deliver cleaner oil and extended engine life across a range of application, the company said. A supplemental oil filtration system has been engineered to continuously remove solid contaminants such as wear metals, carbon (soot) and dirt from engine oil at a controlled rate, capturing particles down to two microns.

hotshotsecret.com

 

 

Wilwood Disc Brakes

Flexline OE Caliper Brake Lines

 

Wilwood Disc Brakes has rolled out a new high-performance Flexline program for OE calipers. Specific to year, make and model, Wilwood’s OE Flexline kits are direct replacements for factory rubber lines, providing the correct length and fittings from the vehicle’s hard lines to the calipers. High-performance features include a Teflon inner liner, a tightly woven stainless steel braid and an outer layer of PVC armor.

wilwood.com

 

 

RETRAC

Mack Anthem and Pioneer MagLatch Brackets

 

Now available for select Mack Anthem and Pioneer trucks, RETRAC MagLatch mounting brackets make grille guard installation faster and easier than ever. Engineered for a secure, vehicle-specific fit, these brackets provide fast, drill-free installation of compatible RETRAC grille guards.

retracmirrors.com

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Gwen Hawver, CEO and founder of Vision Interface, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.

Get to know Hawver in her interview with SEMA News below. 

 

SEMA News: How long have you been in the industry?  

Gwen Hawver: We are celebrating 20 years of business! I have been involved in SEMA since 2011. We started with my husband racing our '99 F250 in the diesel drags for fun, then sharing marketing tips in the forums that were popular back then (before Facebook changed the rules and killed the forums). Our focus was on helping the aftermarket diesel industry grow online. We helped companies grow in their online sales using "cloud cover strategies."

 

SEMA: What does your job entail?  

GH: A little bit of everything. I enjoy strategizing with clients, working within their budget to help them get their message out and heard within their given industry. I also enjoy training people to understand what marketing entails, and how the rules have not changed for over 250 years, but the tools and methods are constantly changing.

 

SEMA: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?

GH: The biggest challenge was establishing trust. We had to demonstrate that we knew our stuff. It took time for us to show what we can do for our ideal clients, but one diesel aftermarket reseller took that chance, and we were able to take him from $2,000 a month to $6,000 a month in online sales.

 

SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today? 

GH: Persistence, honesty and determination. I was determined to make things work; I stayed on top of the current changes through the algorithm updates and changes designed to wipe out SEO tactics. I learned that marketing rules don't change even when the tools and way people search are constantly changing. When I do make mistakes, I am upfront and honest about them and work to fix them.   

 

SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry? 

GH: My main mentors were not in the automotive industry, but in marketing and business. We entered the automotive market starting with fun (diesel drags) and friends. My search for a mentor started out looking for up-to-date marketing training, so I could help clients that I helped get into business, stay in business. Back in 2009, I was watching Ryan Deiss and he was hosting the "Godfather of SEO" webinar. That is when we met John Limbocker, a serial entrepreneur who was offering an SEO training program, which we jumped on, and have been working with him ever since.

 

SEMA: What is the best career advice you have received? 

GH: Take the time to work on your business, not just in your business.

 

SEMA: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here? 

GH: Honestly, I had no intentions of working in the automotive industry until about 2010, when my husband and I started getting involved in racing for fun in the diesel drags with my '99 F250. That activity connected us with some cool people who were business owners––often mechanic shops and aftermarket parts resellers who were looking at expanding their reach in the diesel world. We had the skills and tools that could help. What keeps us here is the people. SEMA, especially the SBN, has been a great place to connect and be encouraged, working alongside other women in the automotive world.

 

SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals? 

GH: I love to get out and spend time with my horses. I originally got the F250 for hauling them around and still use it for that purpose. I am also a homeschool and 4H mom and am regularly found participating in various activities.

 

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website. 

By SEMA News Editors

 

 

Every business investment comes down to one question: What's the return? For automotive aftermarket companies, the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, offers a unique opportunity to discover new products, build strategic relationships and gain insights that can influence business decisions long after Show week ends.

 

Ready to register? Get started.

 

If you're trying to convince your boss to approve the trip, start by forwarding them this article.

 

The SEMA Show is where the automotive aftermarket gathers to see the latest innovations and preview what's coming down the line. Tens of thousands of industry professionals come together to explore all the opportunities that help drive growth throughout the year.

 

If your company is evaluating whether attending or sending employees to attend the 2026 SEMA Show is worth the investment, here are six reasons the answer is a resounding yes.

 

1. Discover the Products and Trends Shaping the Industry

 

The SEMA Show puts the latest automotive aftermarket innovations from across 14 dedicated categories across the SEMA Show campus:

 

• West Hall: Powersports/SxS & Lifestyle; Restyling and Car Care Accessories; Trucks, SUVs and Off-Road.
• North Hall: Restyling & Trucks; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology.
• Central Hall: Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace.
• South Hall Upper: Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment.
• South Hall Lower: The Global Tire Expo powered by TIA; Wheels & Accessories; and Collision & Tools.

 

Even better, the New Products Showcase––located in South Hall Lower––remains one of the most efficient ways to discover what's new across the industry. Exhibitors' recently introduced products are on display in one convenient location to help attendees identify new opportunities, compare solutions and build a more informed purchasing strategy.

 

For businesses that want to stay competitive, there's no substitute for walking the Show floor or the Showcase, holding new products in your hands and conducting face-to-face business with the real people behind the innovations.

 

2. Gain Practical Takeaways Through SEMA Show Education

 

The industry's challenges and solutions are evolving rapidly, and that's exactly why the SEMA Show education program exists: to help professionals stay ahead.

 

Educational sessions, with both free and paid options, provide insights on business growth, emerging technologies, leadership, sales, marketing, workforce development and more. Whether you're a business owner, manager or team member, SEMA Show education will let you return with ideas that can be applied to your company immediately. 

 

Also included is the SEMA Collision Repair Stage, featuring category experts and a round-the-clock schedule of sessions. 

 

3. Build Relationships That Create Opportunities

 

The SEMA Show has always been about real connections.

 

Over the course of four days, attendees network with manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, media members, builders and industry leaders from around the world. From formal receptions to spontaneous conversations in a Show booth, the relationships formed during Show week often lead to new partnerships, business opportunities and long-term professional growth.

 

4. Experience the Industry's Biggest Attractions and Activations

 

The 2026 SEMA Show features some of the most recognizable experiences in the automotive aftermarket, including:

• Show-stopping builds and vehicles
• SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish
• SEMA Industry Honors
• SEMA Kickoff Breakfast
• FutureTech Studio
• New Products Showcase
• Toyo Tires Treadpass
• SEMA Live
• Larry Chen's official SEMA Show artwork and displays
• Art Walk
• PRO Cup Challenge
• Global Tire Expo-Powered by TIA
• More activations announced soon!

 

These attractions offer attendees an up-close look at industry innovation, craftsmanship and future trends while creating valuable opportunities for learning and action-spurring inspiration.

 

5. Attend Exclusive Events That Bring the Industry Together

 

Beyond the Show floor, attendees can participate in marquee events that celebrate and strengthen the automotive aftermarket community.

 

Confirmed events this year include the traditional SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast to open Show week, the SEMA Industry Honors awards ceremony at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and the legendary SEMA Cruise featuring a parade of the world's most unique and innovative vehicles as they roll out of the SEMA Show floor.

 

The fan-favorite SEMA Fest also returns in 2026. Showgoers can close out their Show week with a celebration of music, motorsports and car culture on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus (tickets required for purchase).

 

6. Be Part of the Industry's Biggest Week of the Year

 

Industry insiders know that the SEMA Show is way bigger than the average trade show––for four days, SEMA is the center of the automotive aftermarket universe.

 

From the energy of the Show floor to dozens of activations and events, there are countless opportunities to learn, connect and see firsthand where the industry is headed.

 

The conversations, product discoveries and business relationships developed during Show week create value that lasts long after attendees return home.

 

Ready to Make Your Case?

Whether you're a business owner evaluating the investment or an employee seeking approval to attend, the 2026 SEMA Show offers opportunities that can help drive growth, spark new ideas and strengthen industry relationships. Share this article with your company's decision-makers and start planning your trip to Las Vegas. 

 

Opportunities to discover new products, build relationships and gain industry insights happen every day. Opportunities to experience the entire automotive aftermarket in one place happen only once a year.

 

Need to learn more? Browse the SEMA Show website.

 

Ready to register? Get started.

 

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.   

 

From SEMA Market Research

 

Even with the conflict in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz not entirely settled, the markets positively reacted to the reopening of shipping routes. Crude oil prices dropped to roughly $70 per barrel after hitting a peak of more than $100 in April and May. The $70 price point nearly brings the cost of crude down to the pre-conflict $65 range. Hundreds of ships have passed through the Strait since the cease-fire agreement: While it will take time to get supply chains stocked, the resumption of the supply of oil and other goods should ease price and supply pressure. 

 

In May, the Consumer Price Index rose to 4.2%, largely driven by a 23.5% increase in energy costs, most notably a 40.5% surge in gas prices, while other categories remained constant. With crude oil dropping, gas prices are following suit, with the national average for regular gasoline down nearly $.60 per gallon from a month ago. Gas prices are one of the most visible signs of inflation, so falling prices ease the minds of consumers.  

 

With inflation somewhat elevated, the Fed kept the federal funds rate unchanged at 3.50%-3.75% in June 2026, as expected. The current rate is significantly lower than it was in 2025, which may enable consumers to refinance auto loans at lower rates. Fed governors seem to be split on whether there should be additional cuts or possible rate hikes later in the year. So far, these interest rates have not shown a negative impact on employment. 

 

The unemployment rate held steady in May at 4.3%, while the economy gained 172,000 jobs. The employment market has stayed very stable with an unemployment rate between 4.3%-4.5% over the last year. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia Survey of Professional Forecasters predicts the unemployment rate to remain steady with an average between 4.4%-4.5% over the next few quarters. The stable job market should keep consumers confident in their ability to spend through the remainder of the year. 

 

The economy continues to grow, and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that real GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.1% in Q1 2026. This growth is significantly higher than the 0.5% rate reported in Q4 2025. Consumers are better off, with personal income increasing $181.6 billion (0.7% at a monthly rate) in May. Spending was up by 0.7% with an added $156.1 billion pumped into the economy. Motor vehicle and parts spending was up by $5.4 billion in May. Total consumer spending reached $22 trillion in May and has shown no signs of slowing down. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia Survey of Professional Forecasters predicts real GDP to expand 2.2% in 2026. 

 

While there continues to be uncertainty globally, key indicators of the U.S. economy such as employment, income and spending remain strong. As shipping returns to normal and supply chains catch up, the expectation is that it will relieve some pricing pressures across the market. As gas prices decline and job security remains strong, consumers are likely to stay confident in their spending, continuing to support GDP growth and activity in our market. 

 

The new "2026 SEMA Market Report" was just released and shows that the U.S. specialty-equipment industry remained strong through 2025.  The overall accessory and performance parts market grew about 1% to a new high of $52.92 billion in retail sales. While passenger cars continue to be solid targets for accessorizing, light trucks have become the major sector within automotive and the aftermarket. Pickup modifications account for 30% of the market, as they are such a great platform for off-road, utility and performance upgrades.   

 

For the latest on the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market, download the just released "2026 SEMA Market Report." SEMA members can download the report for free at www.sema.org/research 

 

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We need your help! Your participation in our State of the Industry Survey helps us continue to report on changes and trends in our market.  

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

2026 PRI Show Registration Opens July 21

 

The road to the 2026 PRI Show––December 10-12, Indianapolis––is now more direct.

 

Badge registration opens on Tuesday, July 21, and it's now easier than ever to attend for qualified industry members.

 

With the new Direct-to-Badge registration process, qualified motorsports professionals can purchase their badge for the trade-only PRI Show directly without a PRI membership. No separate membership is required before registering or attending the 2026 PRI Show.

 

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, July 21, to take advantage of the simplified new registration process and secure your badge––at the lowest possible price––to join more than 40,000 other motorsports professionals and 1,000-plus exhibitors for three days of engagement, collaboration and innovation.

 

Why Attend?

 

This year's Show at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in downtown Indianapolis promises an exciting mix of new experiences and returning favorites, all designed to deliver maximum value for the racing industry's leading professionals.

 

More than 1,000 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest motorsports products and innovations, giving attendees direct access to the brands actively innovating and investing in new technologies, competitive advantage and business expansion.

 

Want to know which brands will be in attendance? The 2026 PRI Show floorplan is already online.

 

But the thousands of parts and products on the Show floor are just a part of what makes the PRI Show a can't-miss event for motorsports professionals. Gearing up to be one of the biggest and most impactful PRI Shows yet, the three-day trade-only event will also offer world-class networking and educational opportunities, plus exclusive Show features you can't find anywhere else.

 

Among the major highlights for the 2026 PRI Show include:

 

• T.O.P.S. (Tracks, Operators, Promotions and Sanctions) HQ: This newer Show feature has grown exponentially throughout recent years. T.O.P.S. is the headquarters, meeting spot and take-a-break room for track and sanction officials, management, staff and officials.
   
• Motorsports Engineering Symposium: Bringing together engineers, designers and technical leaders from across the racing industry, this new Show feature is a focused program dedicated to advancing performance, innovation and applied engineering in motorsports. The symposium will provide a forum for sharing technical knowledge, exploring emerging technologies and highlighting the engineering breakthroughs shaping the future of racing.
   
• Machinery Row: Located in the Yellow Hall, this cornerstone of the PRI Show features cutting-edge CNC machining centers, welding and fabrication tools, dynamometers, engine building tech and more--all wired for live side-by-side demonstrations.
   
• Indoor Trailer Exhibit Area: Located on the Lucas Oil Stadium field, the trailer exhibit returns with dedicated display space for the latest haulers, motorhomes, toterhomes and race transporters.
   
• Media Center: Full-service press support for credentialed media, including interview rooms and workspaces. 

 

Don't miss your chance to be part of the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. For more information on attending the 2026 PRI Show, visit performanceracing.com/trade-show/attend.

 

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 $175 per night, including mandatory hotel fees. These properties include:

• Luxor ($103 per night average)
• Circus Circus ($110 per night average)
• OYO ($160 per night average)
• Plaza ($166 per night average)
• Palace Station ($167 per night average)
• Rio Hotel & Casino ($172 per night average)
• Horseshoe Las Vegas (formerly Bally's) ($174 per 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 July 8. For the most up-to-date offerings, visit semashow.com/hotel.

 

 

Mid-Cycle Facelift Coming for the Hyundai Santa Fe

 

The Hyundai Santa Fe caused quite a stir when Hyundai unveiled the fifth generation in 2023 for the '24 model year. Its blocky aesthetic was a massive departure from its predecessor, but while its design was intended to carve out a distinct identity, many people view it as polarizing.

 

Both the front and rear ends have their critics. Now, spy photos from high-altitude testing reveal a remarkably thorough mid-cycle refresh that addresses market feedback. On closer inspection, Hyundai is aligning the Santa Fe with the design language introduced by the second-generation Nexo in 2025.

 

Because of the high altitude, test drivers overseeing the pictured vehicle were forced to pull back the heavy camouflage to ensure sufficient air intake and cooling performance. This exposure has given us the best look yet at the facelifted model, which is expected to launch for the '28 model year.

 

Abandoning the Land Rover-esque fascia of the pre-facelift model in favor of a new design language, the Santa Fe is embracing the Art of Steel design philosophy with a split-headlight setup in which the main lamps sit lower on the bumper. The headlights are flanked by vertical daytime running lights that emphasize width, creating a sleeker lighting signature.

 

Hyundai moved away from the outgoing chunky grille in favor of a more premium layout that appears to integrate more cleanly with the rest of the front end. The entire lower portion of the bumper has also been reshaped to align with the Art of Steel design philosophy.

 

The sides benefit from smoother horizontal moldings that minimize visual bulk, another sign that Hyundai is moving away from the current Land Rover-inspired styling. Around back, the low-mounted taillight configuration has been replaced by vertical clusters connected by a full-width light bar. This change also results in a relocated license plate housing.

 

The decision to make such a comprehensive redesign just a few years into the fifth generation's life cycle highlights the high stakes of the segment. While sales initially received a boost from customers drawn to bold geometric themes, overall market reception leveled off in 2025. Rivals also maintained broader appeal through less divisive styling.

 

Inside, the cabin will also receive updates, including the adoption of Pleos Connect infotainment from the redesigned Elantra. Beyond the styling and in-vehicle technology updates, Hyundai is also using this refresh to implement a mechanical improvement.

 

Already confirmed by South Korea's largest automaker, the Santa Fe equipped with the 2.5L turbocharged inline-four will replace the dual-clutch transmission with a torque-converter automatic. The change comes in response to numerous complaints about low-speed jerkiness and clunky shifting. The hybrid Santa Fe will continue using a six-speed automatic, while the non-hybrid models will retain an eight-speed automatic.

 

Second Time: Another Update for the Skoda Octavia

 

With its all-electric successor delayed until 2029 or 2030, Skoda is giving its best-selling model, the Octavia, a second facelift. Our spies caught a camouflaged prototype testing in the Austrian Alps.

 

Despite the swirly camouflage, a new 3D grille is visible up front, along with new internal graphics for the headlights. A redesigned bumper completes the updates at the front. At the rear, the bumper and taillights will receive minor cosmetic revisions.

 

Not much will change under the hood, but the interior may receive updated materials and improved connectivity. Expect the second facelift for the Skoda Octavia to debut in early 2027.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia