From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a historic moment for California's automotive heritage and enthusiasts, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Leno's Law (Senate Bill 1392) at the garage owned by the bill's namesake, entertainer and noted automotive enthusiast Jay Leno. The bill signing delivers significant, much-needed reform to smog check requirements to appropriately balance environmental stewardship with cultural reverence.

The bill was sponsored by Leno and SEMA.

Gov. Newsom was joined at the signing ceremony by Leno, SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, SEMA Chair Melanie White, Senior Manager State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, Senator Dave Cortese, and advocates who participated in the effort to preserve California's automotive heritage, including Francine Mata, co-founder and president of the Sacramento Lowrider Commission and a founding member of the California Lowrider Alliance, and Carmen Vera, co-owner of acclaimed restoration shop Pasadena Classic Car.

Leno's Law, authored by Sen. Cortese with principal co-author Sen. Shannon Grove, creates a narrow, phased-in pathway to exemptions from California's smog-check requirements for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. Leno's Law was crafted to provide a carefully limited solution for vehicles typically preserved for shows, parades, charitable functions and historical exhibitions, rather than vehicles used for everyday transportation.
 

The collaborative and fruitful effort to pass Leno's Law united Democrats and Republicans and mobilized a diverse set of stakeholders, including lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses and enthusiasts.

"SEMA applauds Governor Newsom for putting his signature on a historic win for California’s automotive community and for every family, enthusiast, and small business working to keep this culture alive," said Spagnola. "Leno's Law shows that California can protect clean air while also showing the appropriate reverence for the vehicles that connect generations and tell an important part of our state's story. We are grateful to Senators Cortese and Grove, Jay Leno, our member companies and the thousands of advocates whose energy fueled this effort with an unrelenting passion for our shared automotive heritage."

Background on Leno's Law

Leno's Law establishes a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to a smog-check exemption for certain older vehicles. Under the bill, beginning January 1, 2028, qualifying collector vehicles (manufactured before model year 1981) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. The exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model year 1986. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill's collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or, via a future DMV process to be established by 2030, verify that the vehicle is driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The bill does not change California's existing exemption for pre-'76 vehicles.

The effort to pass this bill gained support from California's automotive community and international enthusiasts. California's lowrider groups sent more than 1,700 letters, and FIA's International Historical Commission endorsed it, praising its balance of preservation and environmental goals.

California is widely recognized as a key cultural hub for America's automotive history, instantly identifiable through countless images of classic cars and trucks cruising across its roads––from desert to coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and its automotive aftermarket sector sustains nearly 150,000 jobs. It annually generates more than $40 billion in economic activity, provides $13 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $6 billion in taxes.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a historic moment for California's automotive heritage and enthusiasts, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Leno's Law (Senate Bill 1392) at the garage owned by the bill's namesake, entertainer and noted automotive enthusiast Jay Leno. The bill signing delivers significant, much-needed reform to smog check requirements to appropriately balance environmental stewardship with cultural reverence.

The bill was sponsored by Leno and SEMA.

Gov. Newsom was joined at the signing ceremony by Leno, SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, SEMA Chair Melanie White, Senior Manager State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, Senator Dave Cortese, and advocates who participated in the effort to preserve California's automotive heritage, including Francine Mata, co-founder and president of the Sacramento Lowrider Commission and a founding member of the California Lowrider Alliance, and Carmen Vera, co-owner of acclaimed restoration shop Pasadena Classic Car.

Leno's Law, authored by Sen. Cortese with principal co-author Sen. Shannon Grove, creates a narrow, phased-in pathway to exemptions from California's smog-check requirements for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. Leno's Law was crafted to provide a carefully limited solution for vehicles typically preserved for shows, parades, charitable functions and historical exhibitions, rather than vehicles used for everyday transportation.
 

The collaborative and fruitful effort to pass Leno's Law united Democrats and Republicans and mobilized a diverse set of stakeholders, including lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses and enthusiasts.

"SEMA applauds Governor Newsom for putting his signature on a historic win for California’s automotive community and for every family, enthusiast, and small business working to keep this culture alive," said Spagnola. "Leno's Law shows that California can protect clean air while also showing the appropriate reverence for the vehicles that connect generations and tell an important part of our state's story. We are grateful to Senators Cortese and Grove, Jay Leno, our member companies and the thousands of advocates whose energy fueled this effort with an unrelenting passion for our shared automotive heritage."

Background on Leno's Law

Leno's Law establishes a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to a smog-check exemption for certain older vehicles. Under the bill, beginning January 1, 2028, qualifying collector vehicles (manufactured before model year 1981) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. The exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model year 1986. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill's collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or, via a future DMV process to be established by 2030, verify that the vehicle is driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The bill does not change California's existing exemption for pre-'76 vehicles.

The effort to pass this bill gained support from California's automotive community and international enthusiasts. California's lowrider groups sent more than 1,700 letters, and FIA's International Historical Commission endorsed it, praising its balance of preservation and environmental goals.

California is widely recognized as a key cultural hub for America's automotive history, instantly identifiable through countless images of classic cars and trucks cruising across its roads––from desert to coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and its automotive aftermarket sector sustains nearly 150,000 jobs. It annually generates more than $40 billion in economic activity, provides $13 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $6 billion in taxes.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SEMA-sponsored SB 1069 into law, establishing a new conditional approval pathway designed to help qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products reach the California market faster.

Authored by Senator Tim Grayson (D-Concord), the new law marks the culmination of a multi-year effort by SEMA and California lawmakers to create a new pathway for manufacturers that invest in emissions testing and compliance.

• SB 1069 will allow qualifying manufacturers that submit complete CARB Executive Order applications, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation, to receive conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install covered products while CARB completes its final review.

"SB 1069 is an important win for our industry, giving manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful new pathway to bring qualifying products to market faster in California," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "This law will help innovative products reach consumers sooner, give small businesses greater certainty to invest and grow, and help American companies remain competitive. We thank Senator Grayson for his leadership, Governor Newsom for signing this legislation, and CARB for its willingness to work collaboratively with SEMA throughout this process."

"California's automotive aftermarket is an important part of our economy, and SB 1069 gives businesses that follow the rules and invest in compliance a clearer path forward. This law recognizes the work manufacturers put into meeting California’s emissions requirements while giving them greater certainty as they plan new products and investments," said Senator Grayson. "I'm proud to have authored this legislation and appreciate the work of SEMA, CARB, my colleagues in the Legislature, and Governor Newsom and his team in helping bring it across the finish line."

About SB 1069

Emissions-related automotive aftermarket products generally require a CARB EO before they can be legally sold, advertised or installed in California. Obtaining an EO requires manufacturers to invest in emissions testing, engineering and technical documentation demonstrating that their products meet California's applicable emissions standards.

Under SB 1069, manufacturers that submit a complete EO application supported by the required testing and technical documentation may receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install qualifying products while CARB completes its final review.

The pathway is designed to help compliant products reach California consumers sooner without changing the emissions standards manufacturers must meet or CARB's authority to ultimately approve or deny an EO.

What Happens Next With SB 1069

SB 1069 takes effect January 1, 2027. CARB will then implement the conditional approval program by July 1, 2028.

SEMA will continue working with CARB and the aftermarket industry as the program is developed and implemented.

Background on SB 1069

For decades, SEMA has helped aftermarket manufacturers navigate California's emissions requirements and lawfully bring products to market.

The SEMA Garage provides manufacturers with emissions testing, engineering expertise, and compliance assistance, and over the past eight years, has assisted with approximately 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB and completed more than 800 EO applications on behalf of member companies.

Of the 7,000 automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide that SEMA represents, more than 1,200 are California manufacturers, distributors and retailers. California’s specialty automotive aftermarket generates $40.44 billion in economic output, supports more than 149,000 jobs, delivers $13.47 billion in wages and benefits and pays $6.16 billion in state and local taxes.

• The automotive aftermarket is predominantly comprised of small businesses that continually invest in new products, technology, engineering, and compliance. SB 1069 will help qualifying manufacturers bring compliant products to California customers sooner.

SEMA has a lengthy track record of supporting emissions compliance at the federal level and in California. This includes more than $30 million invested in emissions compliance through the SEMA Garage program, including Emissions Compliance Centers in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Jean Pierre Pinochet

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SEMA-sponsored SB 1069 into law, establishing a new conditional approval pathway designed to help qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products reach the California market faster.

Authored by Senator Tim Grayson (D-Concord), the new law marks the culmination of a multi-year effort by SEMA and California lawmakers to create a new pathway for manufacturers that invest in emissions testing and compliance.

• SB 1069 will allow qualifying manufacturers that submit complete CARB Executive Order applications, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation, to receive conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install covered products while CARB completes its final review.

"SB 1069 is an important win for our industry, giving manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful new pathway to bring qualifying products to market faster in California," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "This law will help innovative products reach consumers sooner, give small businesses greater certainty to invest and grow, and help American companies remain competitive. We thank Senator Grayson for his leadership, Governor Newsom for signing this legislation, and CARB for its willingness to work collaboratively with SEMA throughout this process."

"California's automotive aftermarket is an important part of our economy, and SB 1069 gives businesses that follow the rules and invest in compliance a clearer path forward. This law recognizes the work manufacturers put into meeting California’s emissions requirements while giving them greater certainty as they plan new products and investments," said Senator Grayson. "I'm proud to have authored this legislation and appreciate the work of SEMA, CARB, my colleagues in the Legislature, and Governor Newsom and his team in helping bring it across the finish line."

About SB 1069

Emissions-related automotive aftermarket products generally require a CARB EO before they can be legally sold, advertised or installed in California. Obtaining an EO requires manufacturers to invest in emissions testing, engineering and technical documentation demonstrating that their products meet California's applicable emissions standards.

Under SB 1069, manufacturers that submit a complete EO application supported by the required testing and technical documentation may receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install qualifying products while CARB completes its final review.

The pathway is designed to help compliant products reach California consumers sooner without changing the emissions standards manufacturers must meet or CARB's authority to ultimately approve or deny an EO.

What Happens Next With SB 1069

SB 1069 takes effect January 1, 2027. CARB will then implement the conditional approval program by July 1, 2028.

SEMA will continue working with CARB and the aftermarket industry as the program is developed and implemented.

Background on SB 1069

For decades, SEMA has helped aftermarket manufacturers navigate California's emissions requirements and lawfully bring products to market.

The SEMA Garage provides manufacturers with emissions testing, engineering expertise, and compliance assistance, and over the past eight years, has assisted with approximately 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB and completed more than 800 EO applications on behalf of member companies.

Of the 7,000 automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide that SEMA represents, more than 1,200 are California manufacturers, distributors and retailers. California’s specialty automotive aftermarket generates $40.44 billion in economic output, supports more than 149,000 jobs, delivers $13.47 billion in wages and benefits and pays $6.16 billion in state and local taxes.

• The automotive aftermarket is predominantly comprised of small businesses that continually invest in new products, technology, engineering, and compliance. SB 1069 will help qualifying manufacturers bring compliant products to California customers sooner.

SEMA has a lengthy track record of supporting emissions compliance at the federal level and in California. This includes more than $30 million invested in emissions compliance through the SEMA Garage program, including Emissions Compliance Centers in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Jean Pierre Pinochet

By SEMA News Editors

There's still time for SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) members to register for TORA Connect: Member Updates and SEMA Show Panel Discussion, a virtual event taking place on Tuesday, October 6, at 11:30 a.m. PDT/2:30 p.m. EDT on Zoom.

Designed to equip truck and off-road industry professionals with helpful resources to grow their businesses, the meeting will cover the latest council updates, key initiatives and opportunities to get involved. Following the membership update, attendees will hear directly from TORA volunteer leaders during a panel discussion focused on TORA's SEMA Show events.

Why attend:

• Preview TORA's events and activations planned for members at the 2026 SEMA Show.
• Learn how truck and off-road businesses can increase their SEMA Show ROI through participation in TORA events.
• Gain valuable SEMA Show insights from veteran attendees in the truck and off-road space. 

With the SEMA Show less than two months away, now is the time to secure your spot and learn how TORA can help your business succeed in Las Vegas and beyond.

Register now.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, is less than 50 days away. For exhibitors, bringing the right team members can help companies make the most of their investment––and taking advantage of available travel savings can help make the trip more cost-effective. (Still need a booth? Start here.) 
 

Register Staff Members Now to Save on SEMA Show Badges

Exhibitors should register their staff members as soon as possible. For domestic U.S. and Canadian exhibitors, badges registered by Friday, September 25, will be mailed to the Exhibitor Key Contact. Registrations can still be completed online after that date, but badges must be picked up on-site. International exhibitor badges are not mailed. Each registered staff member must bring the confirmation email with QR code and a government-issued photo ID to pick up a badge.

The Exhibitor Key Contact can register company personnel through the Exhibitor Registration portal. View more details about registering staff members at semashow.com/exhibitor-registration.

Why Bringing a Bigger Team to SEMA Helps Exhibitors in the Long Run

Bringing more team members a;gives companies more opportunities to cover the Show floor, evaluate new products, connect with industry members and bring fresh ideas back to the business.

Employees from different areas can offer new perspectives, while SEMA Education sessions can help staff build skills and stay current on aftermarket developments. The Show also gives newer employees and emerging leaders opportunities to learn from industry experts and build professional connections.

Registration assistance is available Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET, at 508-743-8571 or aapexsema@maritz.com.

Save on Airfare to the 2026 SEMA Show

Exhibitors can also take advantage of discounted airfare available through several airlines during the SEMA Show travel period.

• Alaska Airlines: 7% off published fares for travel Oct. 27–Nov. 9. Use code CMO943 when booking.
• Delta Air Lines: 3%, 5% or 8% discounts for travel Oct. 27–Nov. 9. Use code NY4K4.
• Southwest Airlines: Up to 10% off Choice Extra and Choice Preferred fares for travel Oct. 31–Nov. 9.
• United Airlines: 2%, 5% or 7% discounts for travel Oct. 27–Nov. 9. Use code ZS5W757550.

Companies should review each airline's terms and booking requirements when making reservations.

Consider the Las Vegas Monorail, Discounted During SEMA Week

For staff members staying at hotels near the Las Vegas Monorail, the system can provide a convenient way to travel between the Strip and the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Monorail operates above street-level traffic, and the Boingo Station provides access to the LVCC near the Central Hall.

Stations also serve areas near MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris, Flamingo/Caesars Palace, Harrah's/The LINQ, Westgate and Sahara. SEMA Show attendees can access exclusive Monorail ticket discounts through the SEMA 2026 ticket page.

Use the Vegas Loop During SEMA Week

The Las Vegas Convention Center Loop provides underground transportation around the LVCC, with rides on LVCC property available at no charge. It can help staff members move between areas of the campus without walking the entire distance between buildings.

The Loop also connects the LVCC with locations including Westgate, Encore and Resorts World. Those routes are fee-based, with rates available through the Vegas Loop ticket page.

Book Official SEMA Show Hotels for the Lowest Possible Prices 

With a larger team attending, coordinating hotel accommodations early becomes especially important. Exhibitors can book through onPeak, the official housing provider for the SEMA Show, for hotel options, flexible booking and opportunities like earning hotel loyalty rewards at select properties, including the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy rewards points. Companies can book SEMA Show hotel rooms through onPeak.

Don't Forget Maritz Xpress Leads (Invaluable)!

More staff members at the Show can also mean more opportunities to connect with customers and prospects. Maritz Xpress Leads allows exhibitors to scan attendee badges and capture lead information, making it easier for staff members to collect and organize contacts throughout the Show.

Leads can be reviewed at the end of each day so teams can begin organizing follow-up while conversations are still fresh––an invaluable service during a busy Show week. Learn more about Xpress Leads.

Get Your Brand in Front of SEMA Showgoers (For Free)!

Exhibitors have several free opportunities to put company news in front of SEMA Showgoers and media members:

• Post press releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center: Product launches, vehicle debuts, partnerships, company milestones, special appearances and other Show-related announcements can be submitted at semashow.com/press-release.
• Host a press conference: Exhibitors can apply for a spot on the official 2026 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule through the Exhibitor Dashboard. Applications submitted by September 21 will be included in SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule promotions.
• Vehicle Reveal (New for 2026): Exhibitors unveiling a vehicle build can submit a Vehicle Reveal Form through their Exhibitor Dashboard to have their reveal included in a list shared with media.  
• Tell your social media followers: Promote your presence with free graphics, copy templates, logos, and press release tools––all sized and ready to post at semashow.com/digital-tools.
• Create a press release or press kit: It's never too early to begin working on a press release or press kit to distribute at the SEMA Show. In addition to having press kits available to reporters in your booth, exhibitors can place physical press kits and releases in the SEMA Show Media Center, located in Room S219, on the Skybridge between South and Central Halls, at no cost.

Learn more about SEMA Show press opportunities.

More Must-Read Exhibitor Resources

Registering staff and planning travel are just two pieces of a successful SEMA Show strategy. Exhibitors can also review the Exhibitor Service Manual plus these other must-read resources for practical guidance on planning, marketing, generating leads and managing their Show investment:

• Have a Plan for the 2026 SEMA Show: Essential Resources for Exhibitors
• Exhibitors: Maximize Your Marketing ROI at the 2026 SEMA Show
• Generate More Leads at the 2026 SEMA Show
• Resources to Help Exhibitors Save Money on Their 2026 SEMA Show Investment
• No-Cost Media Resources and Tools Available to SEMA Show Exhibitors

Questions about exhibiting? SEMA Show management is available at 909-396-0289 or SEMAShow@sema.org.

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

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.   

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, is where the global automotive industry gathers across four days in the Las Vegas Convention Center. And for attendees, that means an opportunity to connect with the people, companies and products shaping the industry.

With thousands of exhibitors across the Show floor, planning before arriving can help attendees make the most of their time and spend more of it having meaningful business conversations with exhibitors.

Below is a brief overview of the ways to connect with exhibitors at this year's SEMA Show. Check out semashow.com/plan for even more resources, tools and tips to get the most out of SEMA.

Still need to register? Submit your credentials by Friday, September 25, to save on registration. Attendee and buyer registration is open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

Check Out the Floorplan, Build an Exhibitor List

With thousands of booths across the SEMA Show floor, planning ahead can help attendees make every minute count. The SEMA Show floorplan helps attendees get familiar with the layout, locate exhibitors and identify the halls and areas most relevant to their businesses. Attendees can build an exhibitor list as they explore the floorplan, then add exhibitors to their Show plan to keep track of the companies they want to connect with in Las Vegas.

Read more about the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.

Add Favorite Exhibitors and Create a Plan

Once attendees identify the exhibitors and destinations they want to visit, the SEMA Show planner can help create a personalized Show itinerary. Favoriting exhibitors and other destinations makes it easier to keep track of must-see stops and organize plans for each day.

Building a plan ahead of time can help attendees make room for priority meetings while still leaving time to explore the Show floor and discover something unexpected.

Explore the SEMA Show Planner

The SEMA Show planner makes it easier to find exhibitors and other Show destinations based on individual interests and business needs. Attendees can search by exhibitor name, state, province or country, product category, Show section or hall to discover companies they want to connect with.

The tools also feature Spotlight Exhibitors, giving attendees another way to find companies they may not have encountered before and expand their list of potential connections.

Read more about the SEMA Show planner platform.

Stay Connected Before the Show: Products for Builders and Press Releases

Attendees should frequently check these resources leading up to the Show for new opportunities, company updates and information that can help maximize their time and SEMA Show ROI:

• Builders: The Products for Project Vehicle Builders listing provides a way for builders to connect with exhibitors and identify products and companies relevant to their projects. Builders seeking products should contact exhibitors directly using the contact information provided. Learn more about the listing and rules.
• Attendees and media: The SEMA Show exhibitor press release portal is another resource to check regularly for relevant news, updates, product releases and other exhibitor information that can help maximize SEMA Show ROI.

Plan to Discover New Products and Services in One Dedicated Area

The SEMA Show New Products Showcase gives attendees another way to discover products and companies before and during the Show. Exploring the Showcase, located in the first floor of the Lower South Hall, can help attendees identify new products to look for on the Show floor and companies to add to their must-see list. Can't wait for the 2026 products? View last year's New Products Showcase product listings.

Make the Right Connections at SEMA, Keep the Conversations Going

The SEMA Show is about more than seeing what's new. It's an opportunity to meet the people behind the products and connect with potential business partners, vendors and mentors.

"The SEMA Show is a great place for future leaders to start building early connections in the industry. There are many events during and after the show where people are able to connect with possible business partners, vendors, or even mentors. The more you can connect, the opportunity for personal growth expands! There are also education seminars during the show week that you can attend where you can pick up some extra skills," said Dan LaRou of Chrome Enhancements and the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) chair.

LaRou added, "I am really looking forward to walking the show this year and building connections with possible new vendors to add to our catalog of products!"

Connections made at the SEMA Show can continue after the event closes. Attendees can exchange contact information with exhibitors and make notes about products, services or opportunities they want to explore after the Show.

If available, attendees should also have exhibitors scan their badges to make it easier for exhibitors to follow up after the Show.

With some preparation before arriving in Las Vegas, attendees can spend less time figuring out where to go and more time doing what the SEMA Show is all about––connecting with the automotive industry.

Check out semashow.com/plan for even more resources, tools and tips to get the most out of SEMA.

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

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.   

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Member Lounge in room N251 on the second level of North Hall serves as an exclusive retreat for SEMA members during the busiest week of the year.

The SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, is packed with can't-miss activations and experiences, but one of the most valuable member benefits is tucked just off the Show floor behind a door marked N251.

The SEMA Member Lounge in room N251 on the second level of North Hall serves as an exclusive retreat for SEMA members during the busiest week of the year.

While most showgoers navigate booths and aisles, stand in line for lunch and coffee and search for a quiet place to take a call, SEMA members have access to a dedicated space designed to help them recharge, reconnect, stay productive and connect directly with SEMA staff.

Exclusive Benefits at the SEMA Show

SEMA members have access to the Member Lounge, which offers a comfortable environment away from the activity of the Show floor. Whether meeting with customers, responding to emails between appointments or simply taking a break to recharge devices, the lounge provides the space and amenities ideal for showgoers.

SEMA Member Lounge benefits include:

• Complimentary coffee.
• Internet and printer access.
• Device charging stations.
• Food available for purchase (little to no waiting in lines).
• Comfortable seating and workspace.
• Networking opportunities with fellow industry professionals.
• Private meeting rooms (up to 10 people; must be reserved in advance).

Tell SEMA What Your Business Needs

The Show is also an opportunity to connect with SEMA staff in person.

Every aftermarket business has different challenges and priorities. Whether it's navigating regulations, finding qualified employees, reaching new customers or keeping up with changes in the marketplace, SEMA wants to hear directly from the businesses it serves.

• Share feedback, concerns and recommendations for new member benefits.
• Tell SEMA about their business and discuss how the association can help.
• Learn more about SEMA programs and resources available to their company.
• Ask questions and connect with staff who can help point them toward relevant resources.

These conversations give members a direct opportunity to communicate what matters to their businesses and what they would like to see from their association.

Join SEMA Membership Before You Arrive or Sign Up at the Show

Each year, the Member Lounge generates plenty of curiosity from attendees who aren't members. What's behind the door? Why are people coming and going throughout the day? How do I gain access?

The answer is simple: SEMA Membership.

While the SEMA Show offers unmatched opportunities for networking, education and product discovery, SEMA Membership unlocks an additional level of convenience and connection through year-round benefits like industry-leading market research, advocacy efforts, business savings programs, councils and networks, and resources designed to help aftermarket companies grow and succeed.

If you're planning to attend the 2026 SEMA Show and want access to one of the event's best-kept secrets, now is the time to join.

Visit sema.org/join to become a SEMA member and unlock exclusive benefits before arriving in Las Vegas.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show continues to build momentum due to increasing exhibitor demand and strong growth across key categories, including tools and equipment. For professionals focused on automotive service, fabrication and repair, this year's Show offers a comprehensive look at the latest tools and shop solutions driving productivity and precision.

The SEMA Show's dedicated Tools & Equipment section, located in South Hall Upper, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a must-see destination for technicians, shop owners, fabricators and installers. Attendees will discover a full range of professional-grade tools engineered to meet the evolving demands of today's automotive workforce.

From hand tools and power tools to diagnostic equipment, shop systems, lifting solutions, fabrication tools and specialty service equipment, the section will highlight innovations designed to improve efficiency, safety and accuracy in every type of automotive environment. As vehicles become more advanced, the need for high-quality, specialized tools continues to grow, driving strong interest and investment across the category.

The recently released SEMA Market Report highlights several major aftermarket segments that rely heavily on professional installation and service. The report notes that the U.S. vehicle fleet reached 296.5 million vehicles in operation in 2025, while the wheels, tires and suspension category totaled $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments of the automotive aftermarket. Combined with significant professional installation rates across categories such as wheels and tires, suspension, drivetrain, driver-assist systems and electronics, these market conditions point to a strong underlying demand for the tools, equipment, diagnostics and shop technologies that support aftermarket service providers.

The SEMA Show Tools & Equipment section is anchored by legacy brands that have been exhibiting at the event for many years and have helped shape the professional tools market, including Bad Dog Tools, Carlyle Tools, Gearwrench, Harbor Freight, Knipex, Milwaukee, Spectro Wire & Cable Inc. and Wiha. Their continued presence underscores both the heritage and innovation that define the tools and equipment segment. 

"The Tools & Equipment category is fundamental to everything that happens across the automotive aftermarket," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "Whether it's diagnostics, fabrication or daily service work, professionals rely on advanced tools to get the job done right. The SEMA Show brings together the industry's most trusted legacy brands and the newest innovators, giving attendees a firsthand look at the solutions shaping the future of automotive work."

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

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

Attendees can also experience signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care and FutureTech Studio, offering a closer look at the trends and technologies influencing the next generation of automotive tools and shop environments.

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

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.  

By Ashley Reyes

Motorsports brands have just two weeks left to register for the 30th Anniversary Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference––the industry's premier business-to-media networking event, taking place February 2-4, 2027, in Orlando, Florida.

Priced at $950 for three full days, approximately the cost of a single traditional advertisement, the event offers manufacturers an efficient, effective and affordable way to connect directly with leading automotive media in one location.

The deadline to register is Friday, October 2, at mediatradeconference.com.

What Exhibitors Receive  

• Up to 42 uninterrupted, half-hour meetings with journalists, editors, podcasters, photographers and content creators covering the automotive aftermarket.
• The chance to develop relationships that can lead to product features, editorial coverage, podcast appearances and other content opportunities.
• A private hotel suite, included with registration, for displaying products and sharing marketing materials.
• A curated meeting schedule to ensure brands are matched with relevant media.
• Access to networking breaks and special after-hours events designed for furthering conversations in a relaxed setting.

Generate More Coverage in 2027; Register Today

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

To learn more or register, visit www.mediatradeconference.com.