Wed, 11/26/2025 - 11:35

By SEMA News Editors

Jim Browning

 

Jim Browning Sr.--the founder of Ultimate Headers in Berea, Ohio--has passed away. He was 87.

The following message was shared by CORSA Performance, a company that Browning also founded, on social media:

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Browning Sr., the original founder of Corsa Performance and Corsa Marine.

Jim was a man that remembered everyone's name and could fix any problem. Through his network, he discovered an issue with the anti-surge valves in marine applications that caused frequent and costly hydro-locking. Working with NASA scientist Jerry Carek, Jim developed a long-lasting anti-surge valve solution to revolutionize the marine exhaust system industry. Working out of his garage, Jim started cooking Corsa Marine valves out of his kitchen oven. The business grew, and Jim developed the Captain's Call exhaust diverter system, which is still sold today through Corsa Marine.

With the introduction of the C5 Corvette, Jim noticed the vehicle's appearance was lacking the finish such a masterpiece deserved. This was the inception of the Corsa mission; to finish the vision of form that others have stifled by function. Working with [Lingenfelter Performance Engineering], Jim sent a marine exhaust for input on how to improve the C5 Corvette... Jim immediately began the development of Corsa's legendary Reflective Sound Cancellation (RSC®) technology, which re-wrote the rulebook for performance exhaust systems. In 1998, Corsa's automotive division was born: Corsa Performance. In the beginning, Corsa relied on Jim's truly unique and uncanny ability to hone in on the Corsa sounds within half a decibel difference by ear.

Even after moving on to other ventures, Jim's infectious spirit, passion and vision for our brand left a lasting impression on the team that continues to live on in our team that is here today. He will be missed by our entire team, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his loved ones. 
 

Image courtesy of CORSA Performance

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 23:59

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Cruise once again delivered a high-energy finale to the 2025 SEMA Show earlier this month in Las Vegas, sending countless featured vehicles rolling out of the SEMA Show campus and Show floor and onto Convention Center Drive. Crowds lined the streets as custom cars, hot rods, lifted trucks, lowriders, race machines and one-of-a-kind builds paraded out in a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity. With roaring engines, cheering fans and a truly festive atmosphere, this year's Cruise was a fitting sendoff to four days of innovation and excitement. Following is a look at images from this year's SEMA Cruise. Want more? Watch the SEMA Live presented by AutoZone official broadcast below.

Attendees line the street, and the atmosphere buzzes with energy as the crowds await each passing vehicle at the 2025 SEMA Cruise.
2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

Just a small sample of the standout custom builds as they roll into the 2025 SEMA Cruise.
2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

2025 SEMA Cruise parade of feature vehicles at the SEMA Show Las Vegas

 

Subscribe to SEMA News using the "Stay tuned" widget at the bottom of the webpage for more 2025 SEMA Show coverage, or visit semashow.com.

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 22:02

By Ashley Reyes

Kelli Gallagher Dee Zee

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) hasnamed 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. 

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 21:03

By SEMA News Editors

Toyota Carolla Measuring Session SEMA Garage

 

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.

 

2026 Toyota Rav4 photo for SEMA Garage measuring session

 

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:

2025 Corolla measuring session SEMA Garage Diamond Bar rsvp button

Rav4 RSVP button SEMA Garage SoCal 2026

 

 

 

 

 

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

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 21:00

By SEMA News Editors

 

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

 

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

 

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

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 12:30

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
Hyundai Tucson

 

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.

Hyundai Tucson

 

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.

 

Hyundai Tucson

 

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

 

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.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Mini

 

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.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Mini

 

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 11:56

Sponsored by ALLDATA Shop Manager Pro

ALLDATA

Work-in-progress board.

 

ALLDATA TextingAs the only shop management platform that provides seamless, direct integration with ALLDATA Repair®, ALLDATA Shop Manager Pro gives technicians instant access to the industry's most comprehensive OEM repair information for every line item. This integration leverages the full extent of ALLDATA Repair's rich parts, labor and repair information, unedited factory procedures, diagrams and data--empowering shops with the same information trusted by dealerships and professionals.  

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. 
     
  • Automated parts and labor lookup: Speed up parts and labor lookups with automated workflows for faster, more accurate estimates. 
     
  • Work-in-progress board: Track every job at a glance with drag-and-drop status cards for instant visibility into shop operations. 
     
  • Technician time tracking and reporting: Monitor productivity and profitability in real time with detailed reporting tools. 
     
  • 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.

ALLDATA Texting

Parts inventory manager.

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 11:45

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Councils and Networks

 

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. 

Volunteer

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. 

Volunteer
Tue, 11/25/2025 - 11:16

Sponsored by Turn 14 Distribution
 

Turn 14 Can-Am Maverick Giveaway

 

The Turn 14 Distribution × Bilstein Can-Am Maverick X3 X RS Turbo RR, which one lucky authorized dealer will win next year.
 

Despite an unusual year, marked by tariffs, a challenging job market and cautious consumers, the aftermarket parts industry remains undeterred. Anyone who attended the SEMA Show this past November could see it, as they were greeted by an energetic crowd and industry professionals eager to conduct some business. Uncertainty be damned, there are engine builds to finish, new wheels to install and a track day on the calendar that can't be missed. 

Just ask Turn 14 Distribution. The disruptive, award-winning wholesale distributor of automotive and powersports performance aftermarket parts showed up big this year and continued to deliver on its commitment to help shop owners thrive. 

 

A Year in Review: Supporting the Community 


The wholesale distributor supported the industry throughout the year, culminating in their strong attendance at both the SEMA Show and PRI Show. Turn 14 actively sought out events to support and mingle with participants and partners nationwide, providing unique experiences for its customers.  

To name a few, Turn 14 Distribution showed up at TX2K, the "super bowl of street car events," where customers' insane builds set new standards for speed. The event kicks off the proper racing season in dramatic fashion, with the fastest, most powerful cars in the country converging in an epic display of power. Throughout the racing season, the distributor partnered with GRIDLIFE, the premier motorsports festival series, introducing the Turn 14 Partner Lounge at every round. The exclusive lounge offered fans, racers and industry professionals an immersive experience and a dedicated area to connect, recharge and enjoy the action like never before. 

Turn 14 Distribution Jeep staff could be spotted with their vendor and customer partners at Jeep Beach and the Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion. These events don't have the raw speed of TX2K or GRIDLIFE, but share deep camaraderie, enthusiasm and the spirit of innovation.  

To connect with powersports and dirt-focused customers, the wholesale distributor participated in several Supercross events, maintaining a solid presence in the FanFest area and a dealer hospitality suite for a premium viewing experience. Turn 14 Distribution also provided Harley-Davidson enthusiasts with unique happy hours, lunches and giveaways in its rig's shade at the impressive Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.  
 

Dealers In the Driver Seat 


Beyond these special experiences, Turn 14 Distribution worked closely with its customers to deliver new features and programs that helped manage their businesses.  

Built by entrepreneurs who understand the realities of running a business, the company's mission is simple: supply, connect and support independent shop owners with the tools they need to grow in a rapidly changing marketplace. Using shop owners' feedback, the distributor introduced new tools including a Wheel & Tire Search for faster and more accurate fitment results, Roadie Same-Day Delivery to shops near its distribution centers, Dealer Management Systems integrations and expanded search functionality, among others.

To support and empower dealer-level decision-making based on this same feedback, the company's Preferred Access subscription unlocks exclusive promotions, reduced shipping costs and richer data insight--and includes the company's Virtual Inventory feature to help dealers secure inventory in Turn 14 distribution centers without adding any physical stock in their store. 
 

2026 Tour Dates Coming Soon 
 
Turn 14 Distribution Gladiator
 

The Turn 14 Distribution x Bilstein Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, which authorized dealers can earn a chance to win.
 

SEMA Show attendees gushed over three stunning builds at the Turn 14 Distribution booths. 

The Turn 14 Distribution x Aeromotive Ford Mustang GT build, unveiled for the first time at the annual show, is built as a jack-of-all-trades, versatile enough to let its owner choose the challenge and excel across multiple disciplines. All the while, it still offers the comfort needed after the checkered flag. Every partner and part was carefully chosen to deliver real-world performance without sacrificing style or drivability while remaining completely compliant in all 50 states. This build will continue its tour in 2026 at TX2K, Mustang Week and GRIDLIFE events, among others.  

The Turn 14 Distribution x Bilstein Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, also unveiled at the Show, demanded attention. The goal of the build? Start with the factory-upgraded Rubicon platform, known for its off-road pedigree, and kick it up a notch. A more capable, visually aggressive and purpose-built rig that still behaves when needed as a daily. Because it's not always about building the most extreme rig, sometimes, it's about making the right improvements that bring out the best in the platform. Expect to see this build at Jeep Beach, Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion, and elsewhere throughout the 2026 season.  

The last build to grace the SEMA Show lot was the Turn 14 Distribution × Bilstein Can-Am Maverick X3 X RS Turbo RR, an unmistakable statement of the distributor's definitive stake in the powersports market. Unveiled at the Sand Sports Super Show in September, the eye-grabbing UTV will end its tour at AIME Expo in Anaheim, California, in January. 

Until then, Turn 14 Distribution authorized dealers will be competing for the right to take one of the builds home in 2026. 
 

Start Your Vehicle… 

 

Turn 14 Mustang

 

The Turn 14 Distribution x Aeromotive Ford Mustang GT build will be given away in 2026.
 

Building vehicle giveaway promotions, immersive experiences, continuous focus on shop growth, and supporting the industry is just the beginning. Turn 14 Distribution is revving to start 2026 with a bang. A multi-discipline booth, motorsports rig and a party you won't want to miss are just pieces of its significant presence at the AIMExpo and Supercross Anaheim 1 events. From there, Turn 14 will be featured at numerous races and events, including Overland Expos, TX2K, Mustang Week, Jeep Beach, Formula Drift, Euro-Klassik, MPACT, GRIDLIFE and Sturgis, among others.  
 

Join the Fun!
 

If you're already partnering with Turn 14 Distribution, contact your sales representative to find out how you could win one of its builds, get on the guest list for event hospitality or hear about current sales promotions. 

Not currently buying from the wholesale distributor? Dealers and shop owners still have time to sign up for an account and discover how they could qualify to win one of its giveaway vehicles--and so much more. 
 

About Turn 14 Distribution 

Turn 14 Distribution is the disruptive, award-winning wholesale distributor of automotive and powersports performance aftermarket parts in the United States. Built by entrepreneurs who understand the realities of running a business, our mission is simple: supply, connect and support independent shop owners with the tools they need to grow in a rapidly changing marketplace. Leveraging proprietary technology, Turn 14 Distribution drives automation, real-time data, and logistics to deliver best-in-class service. Privately owned and operated, and proudly 100% wholesale. Learn more at www.turn14.com.  

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 07:44

By Ashley Reyes

Jacob Sauls

 

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.