By SEMA News Editors

Limited spots remain for May's SEMA Garage Detroit AUTEL ADAS training, with an exclusive third day available to book.

As demand for advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) expertise continues to rise, SEMA Garage is once again partnering with AUTEL to deliver hands-on, in-depth training designed to keep repair professionals ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology. These highly sought-after sessions focus on ADAS fundamentals, calibration techniques and proper reporting practices, skills that are becoming increasingly critical as more ADAS-equipped vehicles enter the market.

The next opportunity to participate in this training takes place at SEMA Garage Detroit, where space is limited and registration is filling quickly. SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, May 5, and Wednesday, May 6, with an optional expanded third day of training on Thursday, May 7, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI, 48170. (View on Google Maps here). Only a limited number of seats remain for the May session. 

For attendees looking to take their training even further, SEMA Garage now offers an exclusive expanded third day of instruction. The optional Day 3 on May 7 builds on the two-day curriculum by applying diagnostics, decision-making and liability awareness to real-world ADAS calibration scenarios. Rather than standalone lectures, participants work through hands-on exercises designed to reinforce confidence and accuracy in the field. To participate, select the "3-Day" option when registering on the Autel website. Note: The "Day 3" option requires an additional fee. 

How to Reserve Your Spot 

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website by: 

• Visiting autel.us/autel-academy.
• Select ADAS TRAINING.
• Navigate to the "Detroit" tab and click REGISTER.

Previous SEMA Garage AUTEL training sessions sold out quickly, and organizers encourage early registration, especially for the limited-capacity Detroit event.

Want more details? Read a recap article here, or reach out to Autel via email to academy@autel.com or visit autel.us/autel-academy for details.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA member companies in automotive restyling have limited time left to register for the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) virtual general membership meeting and panel discussion on the 2026 PRO Cup Challenge, taking place Tuesday, May 12, at 10:30 a.m. PT/1:30 p.m. ET.
 

PRO is dedicated to supporting the restyling industry through offering its members business tools to help them succeed. During the general membership meeting, select committee leaders will share brief updates on key initiatives, upcoming events and resources available to members.
 

The event will transition into a panel discussion on the upcoming 2026 PRO Cup Challenge––the aftermarket industry's premier competition spotlighting automotive restylers at the SEMA Show. Featuring past winners as panelists, the discussion offers a timely opportunity to hear:

• Highlights from their experience
• What motivated them to apply
• Challenges faced and memorable moments
• How competing impacted their company
• Top reasons to apply in 2026
• Advice for prospective applicants
   

PRO membership is open to SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets, including manufacturers, warehouse distributors, restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to grow your business and network by getting more involved.
 

By SEMA News Editors
 

NASCAR Names Steve O'Donnell CEO, Ben Kennedy COO
 

NASCAR has announced pivotal leadership changes with its board of directors, naming Steve O'Donnell as CEO and Ben Kennedy as COO, positioning the sport for its next phase of growth and innovation. These planned transitions follow a period of sustained momentum and business strength for NASCAR, driven by multi-year media rights agreements, long-term charter extensions and robust partner relationships.

Effective immediately, O'Donnell becomes the first non-France family member to serve as CEO in NASCAR's 78-year history. He assumes all strategic and operational leadership for NASCAR, its affiliated racing series and businesses. Kennedy, in his expanded role as COO, will oversee several core business functions, including the addition of NASCAR's competition department, alongside his current leadership of track and event operations, racing innovation, hospitality and venue strategy. Jim France, who served as NASCAR chairman and CEO since 2018 where he oversaw nearly a decade of innovation and steady growth, will remain as chairman of NASCAR's Board of Directors. Lesa France Kennedy also continues as executive vice chair and NASCAR's Board of Directors remains unchanged.

"I am incredibly proud of the strength and stability we've achieved across the sport, which gives me tremendous confidence in our plan to transition leadership to Steve as NASCAR's next CEO and Ben as COO," said France. "Together, they represent the future of the sport, and along with our world-class executive team and race team partners in the garage, they will guide NASCAR into its exciting next era."
 

As CEO, O'Donnell will focus on advancing NASCAR's vision as one of the world's premier sports and entertainment brands. Previously serving as NASCAR's sixth president, O'Donnell is one of the sport's longest tenured and respected executives with more than 30 years of service across competition, operations, marketing and business functions--from grassroots racing through the NASCAR Cup Series. He will also lead the development and execution of multi-year strategic plans, financial and performance benchmarks, succession planning, as well as NASCAR's next media rights and evolving content distribution strategies.
 

"It is an honor to step into the role of CEO working alongside Ben and our leadership team at such an important time for our sport," said O'Donnell. "I have devoted nearly my entire l career to NASCAR, this garage and our fans, guided by the France family's commitment to deliver the best racing in the world. I am grateful and energized to continue to collaborate with our colleagues across our sport, while listening to our race fans to realize that vision each and every week."
 

With Ben Kennedy's elevation to NASCAR's COO, he will oversee a range of business- and competition-critical functions, including the addition of competition led by John Probst. Probst will report to Kennedy, who began his NASCAR career on the competition team as general manager of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Kennedy will also continue to oversee the creation of NASCAR's highly anticipated annual schedule, a key driver of marquee events that expand NASCAR's reach and introduce the sport to new audiences while honoring its most beloved racing traditions that have delivered many iconic sports moments.
 

For more information, visit nascar.com.

Image Courtesy of NASCAR | Getty Images/Sean Gardner

IHRA Acquires Empire Dragway (NY)
 

The IHRA has acquired Empire Dragway in Leicester, New York, the sanctioning body announced.
 

Empire Dragway has long been a staple in the Northeast racing community, known for its rich history, passionate fan base and competitive racing environment, IHRA officials said. Under IHRA ownership, the facility will undergo strategic enhancements focused on racer experience, fan engagement and long-term operational sustainability.
 

"This is exactly the kind of facility we want to invest in," said Darryl Cuttell, owner of IHRA. "Empire Dragway has a strong foundation and a loyal racing community. Our goal is to build on that momentum--bringing more opportunities for racers, bigger events for fans and ensuring this track continues to thrive for years to come."
 

"Empire Dragway has meant so much to me and to this community over the years," said Jerry Scaccia, former owner of Empire Dragway. "I'm proud of what we've built here, and I truly believe IHRA is the right group to take it to the next level. Their vision for the future of the sport and commitment to racers gives me full confidence that Empire is in great hands."
 

Empire Dragway will host the Outlaw Nitro Series and Small Tire BRATZ Series on July 23-25. Under IHRA ownership, that momentum will continue to build with expanded programming, enhanced amenities and greater opportunities for racers and fans alike, IHRA officials said.
 

Fans and racers can expect upgrades to infrastructure, enhanced safety measures and a renewed focus on delivering a top-tier race day experience. The IHRA said it will work closely with local organizations, teams and the racing community to ensure a seamless transition and continued success of the venue.
 

For more information, visit ihra.com.

Image Courtesy of IHRA

Mustang Cobra Jet 2200 Becomes Fastest EV in Quarter-Mile
 

The evolution of electric drag racing reached a defining moment at the 2026 NHRA 4-Wide Nationals as the Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet 2200 established itself as the quickest and fastest electric car in the quarter-mile.
 

In front of a packed crowd at zMax Dragway, the latest Cobra Jet program didn't just continue Ford's legacy, it rewrote the benchmark entirely. Building on the foundation of the Cobra Jet 1400 and the Super Cobra Jet 1800, the Cobra Jet 2200 has taken a decisive leap forward.
 

Early in the weekend, the car recorded a series of blistering passes, culminating in a quickest of 6.766 seconds elapsed time over the quarter-mile distance and a fastest trap speed of 222.36 mph--numbers that firmly place it at the top of electric drag racing performance worldwide.
 

Electric drag racing is not without its pioneers. "Big Daddy" Don Garlits helped bring credibility to the segment with an electric dragster effort that reached more than 186.60 mph, while Steve Huff pushed the envelope even further, eclipsing the 200-mph mark in his electric dragster. Garlits and Huff even gave NHRA fans a taste of EV drag racing together at the 2022 NHRA Gatornationals. Those milestones proved that electric propulsion could compete at a high level.
 

But what the Cobra Jet 2200 has accomplished is different. It hasn't just joined that conversation; it has taken control of it. By combining cutting-edge battery architecture, advanced motor technology and an innovative drivetrain featuring a patented clutch technology coupled to a multi-speed transmission, the Cobra Jet 2200 delivers unmatched elapsed time and top-end speed in a single, cohesive package.
 

The significance of that achievement was not lost on the fans at zMAX. Each pass was met with anticipation, followed by the unmistakable realization that they were witnessing a new era unfold in real time. Ford's commitment to the program was equally visible. With engineering staff on-site throughout the event and the car making multiple exhibition runs across all three days, the Cobra Jet 2200 wasn’t just a showcase--it was a statement of intent.
 

"Super proud to be out here with this car," said Jake Powers, electrification, hardware supervisor for Ford Racing. "We've been working on it for so, so long. The team has put in a huge effort over the last couple of years. We came out here, and I think we exceeded not just others expectations but our own with this car. Going 222 mph in a quarter is just phenomenal. And to push the boundaries of technologies, we've learned so much from this car. It is unreal to finally be here, show it to the public and share it and get so much positive feedback. People are out here just loving this car. They love to see what we were able to do with it. And it's been a very special weekend for the whole team."
 

"All of the props to the wonderful engineers at Ford who put in a ton of effort to not only deliver the car but to deliver it consistently across the whole weekend," said Nick Kuhajda, demonstrators program supervisor at Ford Racing. "I mean, over 12 runs, 9 passes below 7 seconds and above 200 mph. The consistency of this car would not be possible without this team and its knowledge, and all of the talent we have there in that building at Ford."
 

"Within the NHRA Technical Department, we work to understand new and emerging technologies through research and collaboration with industry experts and OEMs," said Clinton Snead NHRA, director of engineering. "That understanding is critical to helping keep racers, track officials and spectators safe while also maintaining fair competition. The Mustang Cobra Jet 2200, and our collaboration with Ford engineers, is a great showcase of EV technology and the level of performance these vehicles can produce. Given the progression of EV technology over the past decade, it's exciting to think about what may be on the horizon as battery systems, electric motors, and controls continue to improve. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Ford and other OEMs as that progression continues." 
 

In a sport defined by speed, numbers matter. And right now, no four-wheeled electric drag racing vehicle on the planet can match what the Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet 2200 has achieved.
 

For more information, visit nhra.com or visit the Ford From the Road blog.

Images courtesy of Ford

By SEMA News Editors

All vehicles* in the United States market will be required to implement J1979-2 or J1979-3 automotive standards within the next few years. What does that mean for you? Are you ready? Do new vehicle cybersecurity standards have you stuck in park? Most SEMA members--along with OEMs--are still working on these challenges.  
 

Join SEMA Garage Detroit and DG Technologies next month for a light lunch and networking event, immediately followed by a technology workshop and hands-on exercises that will keep you informed and up-to-date on the latest diagnostics standards. Learn more about these topics and get answers to your advanced-vehicle protocol questions with J1979-2/3 expert Mark Zachos, president DG Technologies, SAE fellow and past chair of SAE's Detroit section and director of vehicle cyber engineering at the University of Detroit Mercy.
 

During the workshop, scheduled for May 21 at SEMA Garage Detroit in Plymouth, Michigan, Zachos will take attendees through the software-defined diagnostic standard and the basics of access control features based on J1979-2/3 standards for compliance and integration. He will also provide insights into cybersecurity principles for modern vehicle networks.

Why? Because model-year '27 vehicles in the United States market will become even more software-dependent and access-controlled, understanding OBDonUDS is critical for compliance, integration, development, secure diagnostics and long-term aftermarket reliability. Knowing these standards will help you solve problems and save you time.
 

* SAE J1979-2 (OBDonUDS) becomes mandatory for all internal-combustion vehicles by model-year '27, and SAE J1979-3 (ZEVonUDS) is required for all zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) by '27, with some exceptions.
 

Key Highlights include:

• Background of SAE J1979 classic, emissions compliance and global diagnostics
• Key distinctions and use cases for J1979-2 (Updated OBDonUDS) and J1979-3 OBD diagnostic test modes for Zero-Emissions Vehicles (ZEVonUDS)
• Defined information on Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, DoiP and Secure Gateway Modules
• Cybersecurity implications of diagnostic data access in modern vehicle networks

SEMA Garage/DG Technologies Workshop
Date: May 21, 2026
Where: 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI 48170
Time: 12:00 p.m. EDT
Instructor: Mark Zachos
 

Reserve today, seats are limited. Registration closes May 18. Questions? Contact Tyler McCurry at tmccurry@dgtech.com or 248-888-2000 (extension 312). For more information or to register, visit dgtech.com/product/sema-registration.

By SEMA News Editors

Chip Foose & Coulson Aviation Announce Winner of Wildfire Vehicle Restoration Contest

Following last year's announcement of the Wildfire Vehicle Restoration Contest by Coulson Aviation in association with automotive design icon and TV star Chip Foose, the submissions were examined, the public vote counted and a winner selected: Ben Johnson's '55 Chevrolet Delray will receive a full restoration from Coulson Autosports during the course of the year.

The contest was open to anybody who had lost a vehicle during the 2024-2025 Southern California wildfires. Ben and his family lost a great deal to the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, including the Delray, which was more than just a vehicle; it was a piece of family history.

Purchased when he was 16, the Orbit Orange Chevy was Ben's first car and featured in so many of his key memories. Dating back to high school, he'd drive out to Bob's Big Boy for the weekly Friday night gathering, and later shared memories of it with his wife and children. In fact, when he bought his Altadena home 15 years ago, finding somewhere to keep the car was an important part of the decision.

Like thousands of people affected by the devastating wildfires, Ben had to make decisions quickly and he couldn't evacuate the Delray in time. Once the flames were extinguished and people could return home, Ben discovered only charred remnants of the frame, fenders, bumpers, and floorpan: fragments of his countless memories.

Ben had hoped his children, now nine months and six years old, would grow up riding in it, but the insurance did not cover the loss and rebuilding their home would need all the resources they had. 

The Coulson Aviation Wildfire Vehicle Restoration Contest was designed to offer a glimmer of hope to survivors. The company is the global provider of firefighting aircraft. Its crews participated in the efforts to contain the flames and witnessed the devastation on the ground. Collaborating with automotive legend Chip Foose, they wanted to revive a vehicle that would otherwise have been lost forever.

A video series will be created by Chip Foose, chronicling the adventure and the return to Ben of his Orbit Orange Delray.

I-CAR Marks 18 Years of Support for CREF with $255K Donation

I-CAR––the collision repair industry's provider of technical educational programming, related technical services and industry talent solutions––presented its annual donation of $255,000 to the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF). This contribution marks I-CAR's 18th consecutive year of support for the foundation and brings its cumulative giving to more than $2.3 million.

CREF is an organization that works to strengthen collision repair education programs across the country by connecting schools with the funding, resources and industry support they need to produce work-ready graduates.

I-CAR supports its programs that give students access to quality education and provide schools with the tools and equipment they need, and also provides I-CAR Academy to 42 schools nationwide.

"Supporting CREF and the schools and students they serve is a natural extension of everything I-CAR stands for," said I-CAR President and CEO Kyle Thompson. "When we invest in education, we invest in the future of this industry, and after 18 years, that conviction has only gotten stronger."

I-CAR was a founding partner of the organization––then known as the I-CAR Education Foundation––when it was established 35 years ago. When CREF transitioned to its current philanthropic model in 2008, I-CAR stepped in as a financial supporter and has contributed annually ever since, making this its 18th consecutive year of giving.

Announcing Mopaw From Mopar 

Mopar has announced the launch of Mopaw, an all‑new line of premium-quality, travel- and vehicle‑related pet accessories designed to support the growing community of pet‑loving drivers in the United States.  

Pet industry expenditures recently totaled more than $150 billion in the United States with sales expected to continue climbing, according to the American Pet Products Association, and approximately 78% of American pet owners travel with their pets each year, says the Global Vet Link.  

Whether exclusively designed for Mopaw or sourced from prominent manufacturers, all products embrace Mopar’s high standards for quality, durability and vehicle compatibility. The result is a collection that gives pet owners the confidence that comes from choosing a brand built on decades of engineering excellence.

"When it comes to making sure our pets are happy and healthy, Americans don’t cut corners, they treat their pets just like a member of the family," said Tim Kuniskis, head of American Brands, SRT Performance, NA Marketing and Retail Strategy. "Mopaw accessories bring the car enthusiast and the pet lover together in a way that only an OEM can, so you don't have to sacrifice fit or finish when traveling with your pets."

The initial Mopaw product and merchandise lineup includes:   

• Pet carrier: Sourced from Nemesys Gear, the pet carrier is designed to integrate seamlessly with a vehicle’s back‑seat latch system. This secure, comfort‑forward carrier helps reduce pet anxiety while giving owners peace of mind during every ride.
• Folding pet kennel: Pets and drivers agree that travel feels safer in an enclosed space. This folding kennel features four tie‑down straps for secure vehicle attachment. It stores flat, assembles quickly and is ready for any four‑legged adventure.
• Interior protection options: Sourced from 4Knines, the heavy-duty, functional seat and door covers protect interior surfaces, while hammocks are designed to block the gap between the front and back seats, because every adventure should leave memories, not messes.
• YETI buddy tumbler and dog bowl: The buddy tumbler delivers temperature-controlled hydration on the go, pairing perfectly with a durable dog bowl.
• Collars and leashes: From driveway to the dog park, a variety of collars and leashes keep every adventure stylish, secure and full of wag.
• Dog T-shirts and hoodies: Combining comfort and personality, the shirts and hoodies are designed to keep pets cozy while showcasing their adventurous spirit.

Pet lovers looking to bring an adventurous spirit with Mopaw gear can explore a growing collection of products at the online store or by visiting a U.S.-based Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, Alfa Romeo or Fiat dealership.   

By SEMA News Editors

Federal policy and its real-world impact on the automotive aftermarket took center stage last week as EPA Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi visited Southeast Michigan, including a stop at SEMA's Detroit-area facility.

During the visit to SEMA Garage in Plymouth, Michigan, which represents the nationwide automotive aftermarket, Fotouhi met with industry representatives and toured operations.

SEMA represents a nationwide network of mainly small automotive aftermarket companies that rely on common-sense regulations to innovate and bring products to market. The annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 3-6, serves as a global platform, showcasing new products and trends while connecting manufacturers with buyers, media and industry professionals.

Fotouhi's visit to SEMA's Detroit facility highlights how the EPA's end of electric vehicle mandates is being felt positively throughout the auto industry.

For more information about SEMA's advocacy arm, SEMA Action, or to sign up for updates, visit semahq.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 opens on May 4th; to sign up for notifications, visit here. 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 when SEMA Show registration opens on May 4th. Sign up for updates at semafest.com. 

^{Images courtesy of the EPA, background courtesy of Shutterstock | Shariq .B}

By SEMA News Editors

Federal policy and its real-world impact on the automotive aftermarket took center stage last week as EPA Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi visited Southeast Michigan, including a stop at SEMA's Detroit-area facility.

During the visit to SEMA Garage in Plymouth, Michigan, which represents the nationwide automotive aftermarket, Fotouhi met with industry representatives and toured operations.

SEMA represents a nationwide network of mainly small automotive aftermarket companies that rely on common-sense regulations to innovate and bring products to market. The annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 3-6, serves as a global platform, showcasing new products and trends while connecting manufacturers with buyers, media and industry professionals.

Fotouhi's visit to SEMA's Detroit facility highlights how the EPA's end of electric vehicle mandates is being felt positively throughout the auto industry.

For more information about SEMA's advocacy arm, SEMA Action, or to sign up for updates, visit semahq.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 opens on May 4th; to sign up for notifications, visit here. 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 when SEMA Show registration opens on May 4th. Sign up for updates at semafest.com. 

^{Images courtesy of the EPA, background courtesy of Shutterstock | Shariq .B}

By Ashley Reyes

To help automotive restylers gain a competitive edge, the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting an online general membership meeting and panel discussion on the 2026 PRO Cup Challenge on Tuesday, May 12, at 10:30 a.m. PDT/1:30 p.m. EDT.
 

PRO is dedicated to supporting the restyling industry by offering its members business tools to help them succeed. During the general membership meeting, select committee leaders will share brief updates on key initiatives, upcoming events and resources available to members.
 

The event will then transition into a panel discussion on the upcoming 2026 PRO Cup Challenge--the aftermarket industry's premier competition spotlighting automotive restylers at the SEMA Show. Featuring past winners as panelists, the discussion offers a timely opportunity to hear:
 

• Highlights from their experience
• What motivated them to apply
• Challenges faced and memorable moments
• How competing impacted their company
• Top reasons to apply in 2026
• Advice for prospective applicants

PRO membership is open to SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets, including manufacturers, warehouse distributors, restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to grow your business and network by getting more involved.
 

By SEMA News Editors

From the SEMA Show archives, this Darth Vader-inspired build underscores the creativity of the industry––just as registration for the 2026 event opens May 4. May the Fourth be with you––and your SEMA Show plans.

Attendee registration for the 2026 SEMA Show opens next week on May 4, giving attendees their first chance to secure a badge at the lowest available rates. Those who act early can maximize their savings on registration costs, taking advantage of initial pricing before increases take effect--making early sign-up the most cost-effective way to plan for the industry's premier automotive event.

"SEMA is a must-attend event and on so many gearheads' bucket lists for a very good reason. When you arrive, you'll see hundreds of builds that you just cannot even intake all of the information. And then there are so many people; it's like the industry is full of opportunities for important relationships," said Emily Reeves, creator and enthusiast.

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 to discover the latest product innovations and vehicle trends shaping the specialty-equipment market.

"SEMA to me is filled with versatility and dynamic builds and people and products. It's wild to walk the Show floor and really look at all the innovation and the passion that each of these [brands] has with their products. And then you look at the builds the people put hours of blood, sweat and tears into, and you can't help but have respect for it," Reeves said.

Beyond product discovery, the SEMA Show is designed to drive business growth. With the opportunity to engage with SEMA's 2,300-plus exhibitors, attend sessions and explore emerging trends, attendees gain valuable tools and strategies to elevate operations and maximize return on investment.

The 2026 event will also feature education sessions led by top industry experts, covering a wide range of topics designed to help professionals sharpen skills, gain insights and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Complementing the education program are live demonstrations, interactive features and specialty sections that highlight cutting-edge advancements across the aftermarket.

Attendees will be able to register for 90-plus educations sessions during the online registration process. After registration is approved, attendees can also add education sessions in the Registration Resource Center.

How to Register for the 2026 SEMA Show

Approved attendees will be able to secure a SEMA Show badge at the lowest available rate ($50) when registration opens on May 4. Pricing will increase (to $75) after the initial deadline of June 26. In short, the sooner an attendee registers for the SEMA Show, the more they save.

What You Can Do Now to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show

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.

Read more about hotels.

Mark Your Calendar: SEMA Fest 2026 Is Happening

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 go on sale May 4 and will be available for purchase through the registration portal for qualified attendees securing a SEMA Show badge. Tickets will also be available for non-industry members on SEMAFest.com.

Visit SEMAFest.com to sign up for updates.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Fest––which has featured chart-topping headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age––returns to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, for a high-energy night of motorsports, music and car culture.

"You combine the drifting and the music, you have a perfect event," said Pilar Colmenero of La Oxidada, Saladillo, Argentina. 

Yes, it's the ultimate "exclamation point" to your SEMA week. 

Beyond the entertainment, SEMA Fest plays a strategic role in connecting the industry with the enthusiast public, giving builders and manufacturers an opportunity to engage directly with consumers who influence trends and purchasing decisions across the automotive marketplace.

It also reflects SEMA's commitment to evolving its events to meet the changing needs of the industry––blending business, culture and community in ways that keep the aftermarket at the forefront of innovation.

This Friday, November 6, SEMA Fest will combine live music with high-impact motorsports activations on the SEMA Show campus.

Tickets will be offered to industry members at the lowest available price before the 2026 lineup is announced. When the 2026 SEMA Show registration opens on May 4th, SEMA Fest tickets will also be available for purchase through the registration portal for qualified attendees securing a SEMA Show badge.
 

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

Bands will be announced in summer 2026.
 

Visit SEMAFest.com for more information and to get updates straight to your inbox. For partnership opportunities, contact info@semafest.com.

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 opens on May 4th; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com.