By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Kelli Gallagher, president at Dee Zee Inc., as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

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

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there? 

Kelli Gallagher: I have been with Dee Zee since 2009; however, I worked part-time at Dee Zee when I was in high school and college. The people and the continual changes are the best parts of working here. I have met so many good people over the years. In the automotive manufacturing industry, there is always new technology or a new fad to keep up with. Dee Zee is a privately held, second-generation family business and I am proud of that. 
 

SN: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job? 

KG: Since 2020, the most challenging part has been keeping up with the volatility of the world. In 2020, with the Covid-19 pandemic, we had to lay off more than 800 employees and that was not fun. It was even more challenging trying to bring them back as the pandemic fear and government incentives to stay home were available. To go along with that was the volatility in demand from OEM and aftermarket customers. Today, the most challenging part is keeping up with the changing tariffs and making sure Dee Zee is a company where people want to make a career. 
 

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job? 

KG: I have been in the automotive industry since 1993. My first full-time job was as an automotive accountant for United Parcel Service. I kept track of all the package cars and semi trucks and trailers in the Iowa District. Following that, I worked as an accountant for a conglomerate of semi-truck dealerships and diesel repair shops for more than 15 years. 
 

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

KG: One: empathetic leadership is vital for managing diverse teams and employees across global markets. Strong interpersonal skills and empathy have helped me build inclusive teams, foster collaboration and create a culture of trust. 

Two: Resilience to keep up with the fast-paced competitive automotive industry and overcome gender biases, and grit to persist through the challenges with personnel, supply chain and everyday challenges of running a business. I am stubborn and I do not give up. I firmly believe where there is a will, there is a way! 

Three: a forward-thinking mindset because everything changes and nothing stays the same. Running a manufacturing company requires continual focus on shifting towards sustainability, anticipating trends, embracing emerging technologies and automation, while driving strategic transformation within the organization. 
 

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

KG: In the three jobs I have worked in during my career, I have always been outnumbered, one of the few or the only female at the table. I have been driven to show my worth and credibility to be there. Balancing my career with my personal life and still leading the way for more women in the industry has been a challenge in general. Leading a diverse team and recognizing that it takes a team has been one of my proudest accomplishments. Developing and retaining a dedicated leadership team is essential to Dee Zee's success. 
 

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

KG: Charlie Brendeland taught me if you are going to do something, do it big, do it right and do it even better the next time. 

Mark Wiederin exemplified the professionalism and knowledge of an accountant, applicable to any business and was steadfast in the existence of a straight line between business and personal expenditures. 

My father, Ron Shivers, started taking me to work with him on Saturdays when I was just a kid. I learned that you need to be 110% committed to the business 24/7, and all contributors to the team are essential. From the janitor to the C suite, it takes each skill, ability and dedicated person to have a successful company. 
 

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

KG: It is better to make a decision than not to make a decision. If the decision turns out to be incorrect or doesn't work the way you intended it to, make another one! Keep making decisions until you get it right. 

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

KG: No, automotive was not on my radar as a youth. I wanted to be a DEA Agent or work with marine life, but I did not have 20/20 vision. I truly enjoyed my responsibilities as an automotive accountant, and I am comfortable working in the automotive industry. Honestly, it is my family that keeps me here. I never intended on running the family business, but now I am committed to seeing it through and maybe someday, passing it on to the third generation. 

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

KG: My parents, Ron and Bev Shivers, were the most influential people in my career and goals. They worked hard to give me opportunities, and continually gave me the emotional support, confidence, and encouragement I needed to pursue my goals, take risks and overcome setbacks. They instilled a hard work ethic in me with discipline, perseverance and responsibility. 

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

In partnership with Toyota, the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, is closing out 2025 with two major back-to-back OEM measuring sessions, giving aftermarket engineers and product developers early access to two of Toyota’s highest-volume, most strategically important platforms: the '25 Toyota Corolla and the all-new '26 Toyota RAV4.

Held December 2–3 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, these exclusive events offer dimensional access, 3D scanning, prototype test-fitting, and hands-on evaluation before these vehicles hit broader circulation.

On Tuesday, December 2, manufacturers can get up close with the '25 Corolla Sedan pictured above--Toyota's all-time best-selling model and one of the largest global opportunities in the aftermarket. With more than 230,000 U.S. sales in 2024 alone, even modest customization penetration represents massive revenue potential. Both gas and hybrid sedan models will be available, along with select parts on display and the ability to test GR Corolla crossover fitment. Reserve your spot for the '25 Corolla SEMA Garage measuring session now here.

Then on Wednesday, December 3, SEMA Garage hosts a first look at the 2026 RAV4 ahead of its public release. The new lineup includes the performance-driven RAV4 GR SPORT--the first GR SPORT trim offered in North America--and the rugged RAV4 Woodland, both featuring Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid powertrains delivering up to 324 hp. Multiple grades and powertrain configurations will be available, including vehicles on lifts in staged disassembly for underbody mapping and component evaluation. Reserve your spot for the '26 Rav4 SEMA Garage measuring session now here.

Both sessions offer aftermarket manufacturers the opportunity to:

✔ 3D scan and measure.
✔ Develop products.
✔ Test-fit prototypes.
✔ Receive an exclusive up-close experience.

Reserve your spot now, as space is limited for both events:

SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, CA
1577 Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
View on Google Maps

By SEMA News Editors

Porsche Motorsport North America, Porsche Club to Establish New One-Make Racing Series

Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA) is launching a new one-make racing series, the Porsche Sprint Trophy Porsche Club of America by Yokohama, in collaboration with the Porsche Club of America (PCA).

With more than 170,000 members, the PCA is the largest single-make auto enthusiast club in the world, according to the manufacturer, and has more than 1,000 active competitors now eligible to compete in the series.

The inaugural season of the Porsche Sprint Trophy will integrate established PCA Club Racing events at Sebring International Raceway (FL), Lime Rock Park (CT), Watkins Glen International (NY) and Road America (WI).

Porsche Sprint Trophy PCA aims to offer entry-level and experienced racers the chance to compete as a destination series or as a step in the North American Porsche Motorsport Pyramid, offering progression through Porsche Sprint and Endurance Challenges to Porsche Carrera Cup North America and into open-competition GT racing in IMSA and SRO. The series will feature the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (Types 992.1 and 991.2), along with the current Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport and its predecessor, the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, competing alongside each other in their own class during each event.

Each event weekend will include two practice sessions, a qualifying session and two 30-minute races. USAC will perform technical and safety inspections, while PMNA will provide engineering, parts and marketing support to streamline the race weekend experience for participants.

For more information, visit porsche.com.

Indy 500 Winner Palou Unveils Image on Borg-Warner Trophy

Alex Palou, winner of the 2025 Indianapolis 500, recently unveiled his likeness on the Borg-Warner Trophy, one of the most significant honors since he earned his first Indy 500 victory on May 25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IN).

Four-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Palou, driving the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, earned the first oval victory of his career and became the first Spaniard to win the race.

The bas-relief, sterling silver image of Palou is the 112th face to be affixed to the iconic trophy, awarded annually to the winner of the Indianapolis 500 since 1936.

"This is one of those days that I knew I wanted to be part of at some point in my career," Palou said. "I knew it was going take a lot of work, and finally to be here and to get to see the trophy for the first time, it's amazing.

"I know that it's always going to be there forever, if I race one more year or if I race 50 more years. And whatever the history of INDYCAR is going to be, it's always going to be there. So, it's great to be part of all those amazing drivers. And, yeah, I feel that now. I want to get that face again on that trophy. Try and be part again of the history of our sport."

Sculptor Will Behrends created Palou's image, as he has for every winner since 1990.

Behrends begins his creative process by studying a series of 360-degree photos of the winner to get a baseline for sculpting. Palou then visited Behrends' studio in Tryon, North Carolina, for an in-person session where Behrends constructed a full-scale clay model of the driver's face.

This life-size clay version is used as a reference for Behrends to construct the smaller model, a piece created out of a mixture of oil-based clay. The smaller clay model is turned into a mold and cast in wax before being sent to a jeweler to be transformed into sterling silver. Behrends completes his process by polishing and buffing the sculpture before adhering it to the trophy.

For more information, visit ims.com.

Image courtesy of Penske Entertainment – Chris Owens

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Spy photographers have once again caught several upcoming vehicles undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before they officially debut.

All-New Hyundai Tucson Spotted in Germany

The next-generation Hyundai Tucson, codenamed NX5, is shaping up to be one of the most significant releases in Hyundai's lineup, according to industry sources. Expected to debut in the third quarter of 2026, the redesigned Tucson will feature a more muscular build compared to the current model, aligning with Hyundai's latest design philosophy. New photos captured in Germany show the refreshed model with production body.

This design language merges a strong, sculpted appearance with retro-inspired elements, drawing visual cues from the Hyundai N Vision 74 concept and more recently the Hyundai NEXO. The SUV will also adopt an off-road-ready look, sources said.

Inside, the '26 Tucson will feature the debut of Hyundai's new Pleos OS. This advanced operating system will be showcased on a wide 16:9 display and feature a clean, smartphone-like user interface. The Pleos Playground store will provide access to a wide variety of apps, giving drivers and passengers a fully connected in-car experience.

A major tech leap comes with the inclusion of Level 2.5 autonomous driving capabilities, as well as the integration of its new AI assistant, "Gleo," delivering a ChatGPT-like conversational interface to support voice commands, navigation and infotainment tasks with natural interactions.

Additionally, the new Tucson will eliminate diesel options entirely. Instead, the SUV will focus on hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. The PHEV variant is particularly noteworthy, targeting more than 60 miles of all-electric driving range, making it ideal for urban commutes and short trips with zero emissions. Hyundai plans to release the NX5 Tucson around the third quarter of 2026.

First Images Emerge of the Mercedes-Benz Mini G-Class

Mercedes-Benz is planning to expand the G-Class with a smaller model, according to new images.

The new photos of the first prototype were captured in Stuttgart, Germany, and show the new mini G-Class will come as an all-electric EQ, likely accompanied by an identical-looking ICE model.

Already announced at the Munich Auto Show in 2023, the smaller model was supposed to hit the market as early as 2026, but the German automaker just revealed the first details regarding the small G-Class at the 2025 Munich Auto Show and has just starting testing prototypes.

According to details from insiders, the mini G-Class will not be a spin-off of the angular icon with a modified platform, as previously rumoured. Instead, the small off-roader will be based on a completely new platform developed specifically for the mini G-Class.

Mercedes-Benz has not yet officially commented on the drive systems. While industry sources assumed that the smaller G-Class was originally planned as an electric-only car, the project is said to be under review again in view of weak sales figures for the electric G-Class. According to the German newspaper Handelsblatt, Mercedes is considering offering the small G with a combustion engine as well.

Visually, the mini G-Class is to remain true to its predecessor. Mercedes-Benz chief designer Gorden Wagener has hinted at a 'slightly modernised' interpretation: sharper lines, younger graphics for the lights, plus typical features such as the angular profile and the spare wheel at the rear. The new market launch could take place in 2027.

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Work-in-progress board.

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Key features: 
 

• Attachable photos/videos and 2-way texting (pictured to the right): Share real-time updates, request work approvals and document repairs to build trust and transparency with customers. 
   
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• Work-in-progress board: Track every job at a glance with drag-and-drop status cards for instant visibility into shop operations. 
   
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• Service and profit reports: Identify deferred work and discover new revenue opportunities with built-in analytics. 
   
• Parts inventory manager: Optimize stock levels to prevent delays and keep repair jobs on schedule. 

For more information, visit alldata.com.

Parts inventory manager.

By SEMA News Editors

This is Your Industry. Your Place.

SEMA is calling on passionate industry members to get involved and make an impact! Volunteer now for Members-at-Large positions across SEMA's nine Councils and Networks. 

Serving as a volunteer leader is your opportunity to: 

• Expand your network – Connect with fellow industry professionals and leaders. 
• Shape the future – Influence programs, events, and resources that move the industry forward. 
• Build your skills – Gain leadership experience and professional development. 
• Give back – Contribute your expertise to help others in the community. 
• Be recognized – Stand out as an engaged, committed industry advocate. 
• Have a voice – Represent your segment and share ideas that matter. 

Your participation helps strengthen the community that drives us all forward. 

👉 Apply today to become a Member-at-Large Volunteer and help guide the future of your industry. 

SEMA's Councils and Networks: 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN) 
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) 
• Motorsports Performance & Media Council (MPMC) 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) 
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) 
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) 
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension, & Brake Council (WTSBC) 

Together, we drive the industry forward. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Jacob Sauls, marketing director at EliteTruck.com, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Jacob Sauls: Life's a dance, you learn as you go! The best way to gain confidence is through experience. Don't be afraid to jump in and try something new, even if you feel underprepared for it. Taking this to heart has helped me take initiative in situations inside and outside of my job instead of standing on the sidelines as an opportunity passes by. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

JS: The automotive industry is such a dynamic and robust portion of the global economy. Whether dealing with commercial fleet applications or end-user personalization, vehicles have become such an important part of everyday life and will only continue to grow and thrive. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

JS: Somewhere outside enjoying nature! 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

JS: I typically review previous conversations with whomever I'm meeting with, do some research on the topic at hand and jot down important aspects to make sure they're not lost in conversation. 

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

JS: Dale Earnhardt Sr. My family was huge into NASCAR growing up, and while I'm too young to remember Dale Sr., his lasting legacy on NASCAR and racing as a whole is extremely impressive and I would love to talk to him about his passion for the sport. 

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

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Hannah Mead

Instagram: @_genizona

TikTok: @hannah_mead13

Follower Counts: 14.3k followers on Instagram, 23k followers on TikTok

Focus: Automotive lifestyle, sustainability and creative brand collaborations blending car culture with environmentally conscious storytelling and visual content creation.

SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?

Hannah Mead: I was introduced to the automotive industry through my father. When I was younger, he would ask me to hold the flashlight while he worked on our cars in the garage. Over time, that simple act turned into a passion for cars, leading me to where I am today, combining my love for cars with my background in sustainability.

SN: What's your biggest motivator?

HM: My biggest motivators are the creativity and drive that come with building a project that truly represents me. Every modification and design choice tells part of my story, blending my personality, vision, and passion for cars into something uniquely my own. It's about turning creativity into motion and making something that reflects who I am both on and off the road.

SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?

HM: My favorite part of being part of the automotive community is the drive and passion shared among enthusiasts across the country. I love connecting with people at events from all genres, such as drag races, drift events and car shows, and seeing how diverse yet united the community really is.

SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?

HM: I aim to inspire and educate my audience by bridging my background in sustainability with my passion for car culture. My goal is to show that automotive enthusiasm and environmental responsibility can coexist, preserving the legacy of gas-powered cars while embracing the evolution of electric vehicles and renewable energy.

SN: Why is advocacy important to you?

HM: Advocacy allows me to share my ideas and encourage others to think critically about the future of our industry. It's about using my platform to promote innovation, inclusion and sustainable values, I believe, will help the automotive community thrive for generations to come.

SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far?

HM: The biggest moment of my career has been collaborating with the Arizona Beverage Company and representing the brand through my Arizona-themed Genesis Coupe. I've had the opportunity to participate in the National Cherry Blossom Parade in Washington, D.C., and showcase my car at the Washington Auto Show for the past three years. My next goal is to have my vehicle displayed at SEMA--a dream I'm working hard to make a reality.

SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?

HM: In 2025, I'm focusing on expanding my reach within the automotive community through more collaborations, event coverage and sustainability-focused content. I'm also planning to attend more car shows across the country to connect with enthusiasts and brands that share the same vision for the future of car culture.

SN: What are you hoping to see from the industry in the next few years?

HM: I hope to see more innovation in renewable energy and sustainable automotive practices. The future of the industry lies in finding balance, preserving the culture we love while embracing technology that ensures a cleaner, more sustainable path forward.

Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Hannah Mead

Instagram: @_genizona

TikTok: @hannah_mead13

Follower Counts: 14.3k followers on Instagram, 23k followers on TikTok

Focus: Automotive lifestyle, sustainability and creative brand collaborations blending car culture with environmentally conscious storytelling and visual content creation.

SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?

Hannah Mead: I was introduced to the automotive industry through my father. When I was younger, he would ask me to hold the flashlight while he worked on our cars in the garage. Over time, that simple act turned into a passion for cars, leading me to where I am today, combining my love for cars with my background in sustainability.

SN: What's your biggest motivator?

HM: My biggest motivators are the creativity and drive that come with building a project that truly represents me. Every modification and design choice tells part of my story, blending my personality, vision, and passion for cars into something uniquely my own. It's about turning creativity into motion and making something that reflects who I am both on and off the road.

SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?

HM: My favorite part of being part of the automotive community is the drive and passion shared among enthusiasts across the country. I love connecting with people at events from all genres, such as drag races, drift events and car shows, and seeing how diverse yet united the community really is.

SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?

HM: I aim to inspire and educate my audience by bridging my background in sustainability with my passion for car culture. My goal is to show that automotive enthusiasm and environmental responsibility can coexist, preserving the legacy of gas-powered cars while embracing the evolution of electric vehicles and renewable energy.

SN: Why is advocacy important to you?

HM: Advocacy allows me to share my ideas and encourage others to think critically about the future of our industry. It's about using my platform to promote innovation, inclusion and sustainable values, I believe, will help the automotive community thrive for generations to come.

SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far?

HM: The biggest moment of my career has been collaborating with the Arizona Beverage Company and representing the brand through my Arizona-themed Genesis Coupe. I've had the opportunity to participate in the National Cherry Blossom Parade in Washington, D.C., and showcase my car at the Washington Auto Show for the past three years. My next goal is to have my vehicle displayed at SEMA--a dream I'm working hard to make a reality.

SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?

HM: In 2025, I'm focusing on expanding my reach within the automotive community through more collaborations, event coverage and sustainability-focused content. I'm also planning to attend more car shows across the country to connect with enthusiasts and brands that share the same vision for the future of car culture.

SN: What are you hoping to see from the industry in the next few years?

HM: I hope to see more innovation in renewable energy and sustainable automotive practices. The future of the industry lies in finding balance, preserving the culture we love while embracing technology that ensures a cleaner, more sustainable path forward.

Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The 2025 PRI Show, December 11-13, downtown Indianapolis, provides dozens of conferences, seminars, social gatherings and other events to help the industry share new ideas. Among the activities are networking opportunities and events from PRI Education, SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Future Leaders Network (FLN), Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) and Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA).  

Mark your calendars for the following events and RSVP to connect with your network. (All times EST).

Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast  

Friday, December 12, at 7:45 a.m., Sagamore Ballroom 7  

As racing college students gear up to participate in the 2025 PRI Show Student Program, PRI is seeking industry professionals and companies to connect with future leaders, and help them discover the diversity of career paths available and skills sets needed to pursue a career in the automotive aftermarket. 

There is no cost or setup associated with this event. Simply reserve a table to enjoy breakfast with amazing students and discuss career opportunities.

RSVP here. 

SBN Gear-Up Girl Lunch  

Friday, December 12, at 11:45 a.m., Room 208 

Reserved only for women, this energetic lunch serves as a networking opportunity to give back and share advice with today's female youth. Attendees will help the next generation discover career pathways, build valuable connections and gain insights that can spark a rewarding future in the motorsports industry.

RSVP here.  

Networking Reception Hosted by the Future Leaders Network (FLN), Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC), and Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)  

Friday, December 12, at 5:00 p.m., Wabash Ballroom 1 

This relaxed, social event will bring together industry leaders and friends to network and celebrate motorsports. Connect with peers, discover resources to support your business and witness the induction of the newest MPMC Hall of Fame member over complimentary hors d'oeuvres and drinks.

RSVP here.  

For more information on the 2025 PRI Show, including how to register, visit performanceracing.com/tradeshow.