By SEMA News Editors

I-CAR Announces Key Initiatives to Advance Industry Standards Ahead of 2025 National Conference

I-CAR--the provider of technical educational programming, related technical services and industry talent solutions in collision repair--has announced key initiatives ahead of its 2025 national conference, February 27-28 in Houston, Texas.

These initiatives are designed to enhance collision repair education and related standards for complete, safe, quality repairs and that will tackle the technician shortage that continues to affect the entire industry. Among these are enhancements to its I-CAR Academy entry-level curriculum for schools and shops and the addition of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) learning requirements to its Gold Class and Platinum recognition programs. These efforts are further underscored by the achievement of 10,000 Gold Class shops in 2024, updated consumer promotional materials for Gold Class repair facilities, and the debut of the "I Count on I-CAR" marketing campaign. I-CAR ended 2024 with 10,014 Gold Class shops across the United States, a testament to the industry's collective commitment to excellence in the face of the ongoing technical tsunami of continuous advancement in vehicle and repair technologies. As modern vehicles become increasingly complex, expanding the Gold Class network ensures more communities have access to expertly trained repair professionals who prioritize safety, quality and continuous education. This growth aligns with I-CAR's mission to equip technicians with the knowledge and skills to navigate emerging technologies and safeguard the driving public with complete, safe and quality repairs. This shop milestone also serves as the halfway point to I-CAR's longer-term goal of 20,000 Gold Class Shops, growing from 2,661 Gold Class shops in 2012.

"Achieving this milestone reflects our industry's shared vision, aligning advanced vehicle technology with repair expertise to help ensure driver safety on the road," said John Van Alstyne, CEO and president of I-CAR.

For more information, read the I-CAR announcement here.

Two Leading Ladies in the Driven Brands Collision Group Network Speak to Driven Brands Employees During Recent Event 

Last month, the Women's Employee Resource Group (ERG) at Driven Brands hosted a powerful virtual event featuring a panel of accomplished female franchise owners, all from the Driven Brands Collision Group, made up of Abra, CARSTAR and Fix Auto USA. The event showcased their inspiring journeys, leadership experiences and the impact they've made in the automotive industry.  

Laura Kottschade, the proud owner of Jerry's Abra Auto Body & Glass in Mankato, Minnesota, shared how she has continued her family's 50-year legacy in the business. Kottschade discussed her rise from working in the parts room to owning the franchise, as well as her community-focused efforts, including raising over $3,800 for Alzheimer's research just last year and supporting first responders with hands-on training events. Her dedication to her business and community earned her the Abra Community Champion award in 2024 at the annual conference.   

"Being part of this panel was an incredible opportunity to share my journey and connect with other women who are making a difference in this industry," said Kottschade. "It's important to show the impact women can have in collision repair, and how we're breaking barriers and changing the landscape." 

Wendy Murray, who operates six successful locations across CARSTAR and Fix Auto USA alongside her son, Kyle, highlighted the importance of family in her business. Murray, whose family has been deeply rooted in the network since 2014, discussed how she continues to empower women in business and create opportunities for success within the industry. She also serves on the CARSTAR advisory council and the Edge Performance Group, helping to shape the future of the industry. 

"Being on this panel allowed me to reflect on how far we've come as women in collision repair," said Murray. "It's inspiring to see so many women breaking into leadership roles and proving that success in this industry is about skill, determination, and passion." 

The Driven Brands Women's Employee Resource Group aims to connect employees across Driven to create a community where everyone can learn, develop, innovate, and network. It's open to women and allies across the company. The ERG has hosted panel discussions, networking events, and volunteer activities. It's a grassroots organization led by employees. 

For more information, visit drivenbrands.com. 

D Lot Designer Display and Charity Auto Returns to Detroit Autorama Hot Rod Show

The D Lot Designer's Display and Charity Auction will be back at the Detroit Autorama Hot Rod Show, February 28 through March 2, 2025, at Huntington Place in Detoroit, Michigan, with more than $50,000 in prizes available for auction and raffle. The D Lot has raised more than $250,000 for charitable causes, generating more than 200,000 meals for the hungry and helping valuable wishes for children in need become a reality. Proceeds from the 2025 D Lot online auction will benefit Make-A-Wish Michigan.

The D Lot was created more than 10 years ago by Murray Pfaff of Pfaff Designs and is now considered one of the largest displays at the Detroit Autorama.

This year's The D Lot display includes:

• Previous Make-A-Wish recipient Josh Agnello shows off his '68 Ford Galaxie Wish Car gifted to him 18 years ago.
• Slot Mods shows off its new mega-slot car rally track flanked by two classic rally cars: Murray Pfaff's '68 Saab and Matt Lifter's iconic Mini Cooper.
• Darell Johnston of Carolina Speed & Metal debuts two incredible builds, which were submitted for the Ridler Award competition: Sal Vicari's magnificent '39 Lincoln Zephyr Fastback and Darell's own vibrant '70 Plymouth 'cuda.
• Other cars include Szott Automotive's Panther Pink electric Dodge Charger Daytona and Ted Johnson's Richard Petty edition '24 Mustang GT Convertible, both cars designed by Murray Pfaff.

Companies who contributed to The D Lot and make this event a success include its presenting sponsor--Pilot Transport; Primary sponsors--Auto Metal Direct, 3D car care products, POR-15; and participating sponsors Gearhead Homes, Painless Performance Products, Forgeline, Ididit, Vanguard Motors, U Coat-it, Diamond Back Tires, Axiom Graphics, MotorCity Auto Spa, Kicker, Phoenix Transmissions, Bilstein, WireCare, ALRO Metals Outlet, Slot Mods, California Car Cover, Hemmings and Pfaff Designs.

Tickets for the "Pick-A-Prize" raffle during the Detroit Autorama are $5 each with a chance to win items ranging from a hand-crafted gasser-styled pedal car, 52-in. toolbox, 65-in. smart TV, performance parts, tools, audio components and much more.

The D Lot online auction extends two to three weeks beyond the event and can be accessed here. Some of the items up for auction include a Detroit Historical Society Guided Tour for up to 10 People of The Secret Storage Facility, vehicle shipping anywhere in the lower 48 states from Pilot Transport, Certificate Towards the Purchase of any Phoenix Transmissions automatic transmission torque converter, certificate for $500 towards the purchase of any AMD products, $2,500 off Forgeline Wheels, and $2,500 off Schott Performance Wheels.

For more information and to participate in the silent auction, visit facebook.com/thedlot.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage continues to host engaging, hands-on events in partnership with AUTEL. These two-day training sessions focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and help participants gain valuable knowledge on fundamentals, calibration techniques and necessary reporting practices. As the number of ADAS-equipped vehicles continues to grow, mastering the proper calibration of these systems is becoming increasingly vital. 

SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, March 25, and Wednesday, March 26, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St, Plymouth, Michigan, 48170.

RSVP for the upcoming session on the Autel website here (simply navigate to the "Detroit" tab under the first event), and keep an eye out for additional sessions later this calendar year.

For more information, contact academy@autel.com or visit the Autel website here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is hosting a virtual General Membership Meeting on Thursday, March 6, at 10:00 a.m. PST/1:00 p.m. EST, during which select committee leaders will share updates about FLN's member benefits.

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and will enable attendees to discover resources designed to help young professionals succeed in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about networking events, volunteer opportunities, recognition programs and webinars designed to support professional growth. Additionally, details will be shared about the FLN Professional Development Programs taking place in May at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan.

FLN membership is free and open to individuals under the age of 40 who work for a SEMA member company. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to take action in the industry and grow your network by getting more involved.

Register here.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A late-breaking legal development has reinstated the requirement that small businesses must file a report with the United States Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on their beneficial ownership information (BOI). Following a ruling reinstating BOI reporting requirements by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, FinCEN issued a notice that reset the filing deadline for most companies to March 21, 2025. BOI reports are a requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a 2021 federal law that is intended to enhance transparency in entity structures and ownership to combat money laundering, tax fraud and other illicit activities. 

While the Trump Administration has defended the CTA in court there have been reports that FinCEN could revise the rules to reduce the compliance burden for "lower-risk entities, including many U.S. small businesses." SEMA will continue to monitor any changes in CTA requirements and update its members if there is any official action delaying or refocusing enforcement of the regulation. 

Congress has also made progress in delaying the implementation of the CTA. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the "Protect Small Businesses from Excessive Paperwork Act of 2025" (H.R. 736), a bill that would delay the CTA reporting requirements until January 1, 2026. However, it is unlikely that H.R. 736 will become law prior to March 21.  

The CTA requires most small businesses in the United States to make a filing with FinCEN (more information HERE). Small businesses can be exempted from filing a report with FinCEN if they meet the following three criteria: 

• Employ more than 20 employees 
• Operate a physical office in the United States 
• Filed federal tax returns demonstrating more than $5 million in gross receipts or sales

If your business is required to submit a report, click here to file a BOI report with FinCEN. 

Corporate Transparency Act requires most small businesses in the United States to make a filing with FinCEN (more information HERE).

Beneficial Ownership Rule Filing Requirements 

The CTA defines a "beneficial owner" as an individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company. An individual exercises "substantial control" over an entity if the individual:  

• Serves as a senior officer 
• Has authority over the appointment or removal of a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors 
• Directs, determines or has substantial influence over important business decisions 

Beneficial ownership information reporting is not an annual requirement. Businesses only must file a report with FinCEN once, unless the filer needs to update or correct information about their company's beneficial ownership. Generally, reporting companies must provide four pieces of information about each beneficial owner: 

• Name 
• Date of birth 
• Address 
• The identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired United States driver's license, a non-expired United States passport or a non-expired identification document issued by a state (including a U.S. territory or possession), local government or Native American tribe. If none of those documents exist, a non-expired foreign passport can be used. An image of the document must also be submitted. 

Companies must also submit certain information about themselves, such as their name(s) and address. In addition, reporting companies created on or after January 1, 2024, must submit information about the individuals who formed the company ("company applicants"). 

Filers can also view informational videos and webinars, find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to the contact center and learn more about how to report at www.fincen.gov/boi. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A late-breaking legal development has reinstated the requirement that small businesses must file a report with the United States Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on their beneficial ownership information (BOI). Following a ruling reinstating BOI reporting requirements by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, FinCEN issued a notice that reset the filing deadline for most companies to March 21, 2025. BOI reports are a requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a 2021 federal law that is intended to enhance transparency in entity structures and ownership to combat money laundering, tax fraud and other illicit activities. 

While the Trump Administration has defended the CTA in court there have been reports that FinCEN could revise the rules to reduce the compliance burden for "lower-risk entities, including many U.S. small businesses." SEMA will continue to monitor any changes in CTA requirements and update its members if there is any official action delaying or refocusing enforcement of the regulation. 

Congress has also made progress in delaying the implementation of the CTA. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the "Protect Small Businesses from Excessive Paperwork Act of 2025" (H.R. 736), a bill that would delay the CTA reporting requirements until January 1, 2026. However, it is unlikely that H.R. 736 will become law prior to March 21.  

The CTA requires most small businesses in the United States to make a filing with FinCEN (more information HERE). Small businesses can be exempted from filing a report with FinCEN if they meet the following three criteria: 

• Employ more than 20 employees 
• Operate a physical office in the United States 
• Filed federal tax returns demonstrating more than $5 million in gross receipts or sales

If your business is required to submit a report, click here to file a BOI report with FinCEN. 

Corporate Transparency Act requires most small businesses in the United States to make a filing with FinCEN (more information HERE).

Beneficial Ownership Rule Filing Requirements 

The CTA defines a "beneficial owner" as an individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company. An individual exercises "substantial control" over an entity if the individual:  

• Serves as a senior officer 
• Has authority over the appointment or removal of a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors 
• Directs, determines or has substantial influence over important business decisions 

Beneficial ownership information reporting is not an annual requirement. Businesses only must file a report with FinCEN once, unless the filer needs to update or correct information about their company's beneficial ownership. Generally, reporting companies must provide four pieces of information about each beneficial owner: 

• Name 
• Date of birth 
• Address 
• The identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired United States driver's license, a non-expired United States passport or a non-expired identification document issued by a state (including a U.S. territory or possession), local government or Native American tribe. If none of those documents exist, a non-expired foreign passport can be used. An image of the document must also be submitted. 

Companies must also submit certain information about themselves, such as their name(s) and address. In addition, reporting companies created on or after January 1, 2024, must submit information about the individuals who formed the company ("company applicants"). 

Filers can also view informational videos and webinars, find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to the contact center and learn more about how to report at www.fincen.gov/boi. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

By Ashley Reyes

Precision Replacement Parts (PRP) has been among trusted names in the automotive glass industry since 1986. Just browse through their website and you will find an extensive selection of molded EPDM Rubber, PVC and HDPE-based plastics, and various stamped and extruded metal products for the classic and late-model industries.  

In 2024, PRP earned industry recognition when their '73-'87 GM Truck Complete Vent Assembly was voted Best New Exterior Product in the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

SEMA News recently spoke with PRP Marketing Manager Derek Churchyard, who shared the story behind the vent assembly, and how other restoration parts manufacturers can benefit from displaying their products in the ARMO Hot Products Showcase at the 2025 Spring Carlisle in April.   

Q: Can you tell us about what inspired the product's creation?  

DC: The vent windows on the '73–'87 square-body trucks have always been some of the most challenging components to rebuild. For the past seven years, we've offered a rebuild service for these vent assemblies, and it's been incredibly popular since there were no brand-new aftermarket replacements available. We recognized the need for a high-quality, new option. However, designing and tooling these vents was particularly tricky due to the bends in the assembly. It took three years of research, development and extensive customer testing to perfect them, and we're proud to have set a new standard in the industry. 

Precision Replacement Parts' vent assembly was voted Best New Exterior Product in last year's SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Q: Why did you decide to showcase the vent assembly at Spring Carlisle instead of PRP's other products? 

DC: Due to the immense popularity of the square-body trucks and the significant gap in the market for these vent assemblies, we knew this product deserved as much exposure as possible. Showcasing them allowed us to highlight how we were filling a long-standing void with a high-quality solution that enthusiasts had been waiting for. 

Q: What did winning the Best New Exterior Product award mean to you and your team? 

DC: Winning this award was a powerful validation of the hard work, dedication and attention to detail that our team put into developing this product. It reinforced that our efforts to create a high-quality solution for square-body enthusiasts were truly making an impact in the industry. 

Q: Is PRP planning to display anything in this year's Hot Products Showcase? If so, what are you bringing? 

DC: Yes, this year we're showcasing the rear window original slider gasket for the square-body trucks—another product that has been missing from the market. Just like with our vent assemblies, we saw a need for a high-quality solution, especially since many enthusiasts prefer the original slider option. 

Q: Why would you recommend other ARMO members participate in the 2025 Showcase? 

DC: Participating in the Showcase is a fantastic opportunity for ARMO members to gain valuable exposure for their new products. It's a great way to connect with industry professionals, showcase innovation and reach a broader audience that appreciates quality restoration parts. 

2025 ARMO Hot Products Showcase Product Entries Now Open

Registration is now open to ARMO members who would like to have their products included in the Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, April 23-25.

Program participation is free to ARMO members, and manufacturers are only responsible for shipping their products in advance with a return label or dropping off and picking up their products on-site.  

During the event, Carlisle attendees will vote for their favorite products in the categories of exterior, interior, engine, accessory item, drivetrain/brakes/suspension and People's Choice. Winners will be recognized at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas in November.  

Click here to start the product submission process. 

For more information on the ARMO Hot Products Showcase, visit here. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Want to help? LEARN MORE HERE, AND SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Want to help? LEARN MORE HERE, AND SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

'26 Porsche 718 Cayman EV: A New Era of Performance and Sustainability

Porsche is poised to make a significant impact with the upcoming '26 Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman EV. This all-electric iteration of the iconic 718 promises to blend the brand's storied performance heritage with cutting-edge technology and sustainability, according to the manufacturer.

The Porsche 718 series, which includes the Boxster and Cayman, has long been celebrated for its exceptional handling, lightweight construction and thrilling driving dynamics. The '26 Porsche 718 EV aims to uphold this legacy while embracing the advantages of electric powertrains, according to SEMA News sources. While the open-top 718 Boxster has been photographed in prototype guise various times since 2023, these are the first shots of its tin-topped stable mate, the 718 Cayman.

The design of the '26 Porsche 718 EV appears to reflect modern interpretations of the classic 718 silhouettes. Expect to see sleek lines, a low stance and an aerodynamic profile that enhances efficiency and performance. While the overall shapes may remain familiar, the EVs will incorporate unique design elements that distinguish them from their gasoline-powered predecessors, such as a closed-off front grille and distinctive lighting signatures, sources said.

At the heart of the '26 Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman will be an electric powertrain. While specific details are still under wraps, industry insiders anticipate a dual-motor setup that will provide all-wheel drive and instantaneous torque delivery. This configuration could enable Boxster and Cayman to achieve 0-60-mph times in the realm of 3 seconds or less.

Porsche is also expected to utilize advanced battery packs that offer a balance of high energy density and lightweight construction, ensuring that the vehicle remains agile and responsive. Additionally, fast-charging capabilities will likely be a priority, allowing drivers to recharge their vehicles quickly and efficiently during long journeys.

Inside, the cabin will likely feature high-quality materials, an ergonomic design and a driver-focused layout. A digital cockpit with a large infotainment display will provide access to a range of connectivity features, navigation and performance data, insiders said.

Porsche is also expected to integrate advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and convenience. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automated parking will likely be available.

As part of Porsche's stated commitment to sustainability, the '26 718 EV will likely include the use of sustainable materials in the interior, energy-efficient manufacturing processes and a focus on recyclability will all contribute to a more environmentally friendly vehicle.

Facelifts Coming for Mercedes-AMG GLE and GLS

Mercedes-AMG GLE

With updates already on the way for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS, SEMA News sources recently caught a glimpse of the redesigned AMG variants of both models.

The Affalterbach manufacturer is working on a second facelift for their GLE midsize and GLS full-size SUVs to prolong the life span of the models, likely a result of the ongoing debate about the end or open end for internal-combustion engines in Europe and elsewhere, according to insiders.

Mercedes-AMG GLS

The new spy shots indicate that modifications will be limited to a few cosmetic changes. As seen in these new images, the inner graphics of the front and rear lamps are clearly visible and are reminiscent of parent company's Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star.

These minor changes could be paired with a small makeover of the interior, plus updated safety-assistance systems and a revised infotainment system, including bigger screens.

New exhaust regulations also suggest that there will be no changes under the hood, sources said.

By Ashley Reyes

Ultra4 racecars have undergone remarkable advancements over the years, evolving from dedicated rock crawlers struggling to reach 60 mph to high-performance racecars capable of exceeding 130 mph. These intricate machines are now known for their ability to dominate in some of the most thrilling desert races, short course competitions and high-stakes endurance challenges that exist today.  

On Thursday, March 6, at 9:00 a.m. PST, the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host a Coffee and Conversation virtual event discussing the evolution of the Ultra4 racecar. Attendees will engage in open dialogue with featured guests who are experts in the Ultra4 racing field, providing a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge with others and gain new perspectives.

During the conversation, attendees will connect with:  

• Matt Harris -- vice president and general manager, Method Race Wheels/Custom Wheelhouse 
• Brian McCroskey -- senior manager-special projects, Bilstein/Thyssenkrup 
• Mike Messina -- general manager-racing division, Brembo 
• Jeremy Purick -- Rock Krawler Suspension
• Jason Weidman -- brand manager-wheels, Wheel Group 

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations offer a great chance to network virtually with professionals in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake sectors. You'll be able to share your insights, discuss common challenges and build valuable relationships with industry peers. 

Register here.